Prevalence and severity of early childhood caries in malnourished children in Mendoza, Argentina / Prevalencia y severidad de caries de la infancia temprana en niños con desnutrición infantil de Mendoza, Argentina

ABSTRACT The aim of this correlational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was to describe the pathological profile of Early Childhood Caries (ECC) in malnourished children who attended two centers for prevention and treatment of child malnutrition in Mendoza, Argentina. The study included 145 children aged 12 to 71 months, with prior parental consent, and recorded dmft and dmfs according to ICDASII2 to 6 and 4 to 6 active caries categories, age and severity of caries experience. Parametric and non-parametric statistics were applied with p=0.05. Caries prevalence for enamel and dentin lesions was 48.2%, declining to 35.2% when only dentin lesions were considered (dmft 4-6). The following means were found for dmft and dmfs: dmft 2-6 2.10 ± 3.31, with "d" 2.03 ± 3.24; dmfs 3.07 ± 6.1 with "d" 2.91 ± 6.1; dmft 4-6 1.21 ± 2.46 with "d" 1.14 ± 2.37; dmfs 4-6 1.98 ± 5.14 and "d" 1.86 ± 5.06. There were statistically significant differences between dmft 2-6 and dmft 4-6. Active enamel lesions (ICDAS II active categories 2 and 3) accounted for 37% of total lesions. Active lesions type 5 were the most frequent. The indicators for dental status and severity of caries experience increased with age, both with moderate positive correlations. Conclusions: Malnourished children under six years old studied in Mendoza presented comorbidity with ECC. Dental status worsened with age. The values for caries indicators demonstrated the weight of caries diagnoses in early stages and the importance of providing preventive measures and systematic monitoring during these children's early years of life.

RESUMEN El presente estudio descriptivo transversal correlacional tuvo como objetivo describir el perfil de patología de la Caries de Infancia Temprana (CIT) en niños con desnutrición infantil asistentes a dos centros de prevención y tratamiento de la desnutrición infantil, en Mendoza, Rep. Argentina. Sobre un total de 145 niños entre 12 y 71 meses de edad, previo consentimiento parental, se registraron dmft y dmfs según categorías de caries activas ICDAS II2 a 6y 4 a 6; edad, y severidad de experiencia de caries. Se aplicó estadística paramétrica y no paramétrica con nivel de p=0,05. La prevalencia de caries para lesiones de esmalte y dentina fue del 48,2% disminuyendo a un 35,2% cuando se consideraron solo lesiones en dentina (dmft 4-6). Se hallaron las siguientes medias para dmft y dmfs: dmft 2-6 2,10 ± 3,31, con "c" de de 2,03 ± 3,24; dmfs de 3,07 ± 6,1 con "c" de 2,91 ± 6,1; dmft 4-6 de 1.21 ± 2,46 con "c" de 1,14 ± 2,37; dmfs 4-6 de 1,98 ± 5,14y "c" de 1,86 ± 5,06. Las diferencias observadas entre dmft 2-6 y dmft 4-6 fueron estadísticamente significativas. Las lesiones activas de esmalte (categorías 2 y 3 activas de ICDAS II) constituyeron 37% del total de lesiones. Las lesiones activas tipo 5 fueron las más frecuentes. Los indicadores de estado dental y de severidad de experiencia de caries aumentaron con la edad, hallándose correlaciones positivas moderadas para ambas variables. Conclusiones: Los niños menores de seis años con desnutrición infantil estudiados en Mendoza, presentaron co- morbilidad con CIT. El estado dental empeoró con la edad. Los valores encontrados de los indicadores de caries demostraron el peso del diagnóstico de caries en sus estadíos iniciales y la importancia de arribar con medidas preventivas y seguimiento sistemático en los primeros años de vida de estos niños.

Prevalence and severity of early childhood caries in malnourished children in Mendoza, Argentina.

The aim of this correlational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was to describe the pathological profile of Early Childhood Caries (ECC) in malnourished children who attended two centers for prevention and treatment of child malnutrition in Mendoza, Argentina. The study included 145 children aged 12 to 71 months, with prior parental consent, and recorded dmft and dmfs according to ICDAS II 2 to 6 and 4 to 6 active caries categories, age and severity of caries experience. Parametric and non-parametric statistics were applied with p=0.05. Caries prevalence for enamel and dentin lesions was 48.2%, declining to 35.2% when only dentin lesions were considered (dmft 4-6). The following means were found for dmft and dmfs: dmft 2-6 2.10 ± 3.31, with "d" 2.03 ± 3.24; dmfs 3.07 ± 6.1 with "d" 2.91 ± 6.1; dmft 4-6 1.21 ± 2.46 with "d" 1.14 ± 2.37; dmfs 4-6 1.98 ± 5.14 and "d" 1.86 ± 5.06. There were statistically significant differences between dmft 2-6 and dmft 4-6. Active enamel lesions (ICDAS II active categories 2 and 3) accounted for 37% of total lesions. Active lesions type 5 were the most frequent. The indicators for dental status and severity of caries experience increased with age, both with moderate positive correlations. Conclusions: Malnourished children under six years old studied in Mendoza presented comorbidity with ECC. Dental status worsened with age. The values for caries indicators demonstrated the weight of caries diagnoses in early stages and the importance of providing preventive measures and systematic monitoring during these children's early years of life.

El presente estudio descriptivo transversal correlacional tuvo como objetivo describir el perfil de patología de la Caries de Infancia Temprana (CIT) en niños con desnutrición infantil asistentes a dos centros de prevención y tratamiento de la desnutrición infantil, en Mendoza, Rep. Argentina. Sobre un total de 145 niños entre 12 y 71 meses de edad, previo consentimiento parental, se registraron dmft y dmfs según categorías de caries activas ICDAS II 2 a 6 y 4 a 6; edad, y severidad de experiencia de caries. Se aplicó estadística paramétrica y no paramétrica con nivel de p=0,05. La prevalencia de caries para lesiones de esmalte y dentina fue del 48,2% disminuyendo a un 35,2% cuando se consideraron solo lesiones en dentina (dmft 4-6). Se hallaron las siguientes medias para dmft y dmfs: dmft 2-6 2,10 ± 3,31, con "c" de de 2,03 ± 3,24; dmfs de 3,07 ± 6,1 con "c" de 2,91 ± 6,1; dmft 4-6 de 1.21 ± 2,46 con "c" de 1,14 ± 2,37; dmfs 4-6 de 1,98 ± 5,14 y "c" de 1,86 ± 5,06. Las diferencias observadas entre dmft 2-6 y dmft 4-6 fueron estadísticamente significativas. Las lesiones activas de esmalte (categorías 2 y 3 activas de ICDAS II) constituyeron 37% del total de lesiones. Las lesiones activas tipo 5 fueron las más frecuentes. Los indicadores de estado dental y de severidad de experiencia de caries aumentaron con la edad, hallándose correlaciones positivas moderadas para ambas variables. Conclusiones: Los niños menores de seis años con desnutrición infantil estudiados en Mendoza, presentaron co- morbilidad con CIT. El estado dental empeoró con la edad. Los valores encontrados de los indicadores de caries demostraron el peso del diagnóstico de caries en sus estadíos iniciales y la importancia de arribar con medidas preventivas y seguimiento sistemático en los primeros años de vida de estos niños.

Aplicações dos testes de integridade acrossômica e reação acrossômica induzida para touros da raça Nelore / Applications of acrosome integrity and induced acrosome reaction tests to Nelore bulls

O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar o desempenho e a variabilidade de resultados das provas funcionais de integridade acrossômica (IA) e a reação acrossômica induzida (RAI) em touros jovens da raça Nelore, bem como verificar suas associações com outros parâmetros andrológicos. Foram avaliadas 16 amostras de sêmen congelado de touros jovens da raça Nelore utilizando-se esfregaços em lâminas pelo método de Azul Trypan / Giemsa. A média geral da integridade acrossômica pós-congelação foi de 85 ± 6%, com redução para 76 ± 8% após quatro horas de incubação em banho maria a 37º C com meio de TALP HEPES com albumina. Os testes de RAI tiveram diferenças acentuadas entre os touros do experimento, com média 18 ± 9 %, com números máximos e mínimos de 44% a 3%. Os resultados sugerem que ambos os indutores Heparina e Heparina + Lisofosfatidilcolina (LPC) foram eficientes e devem ser utilizados nas avaliações de RAI. Na comparação entre touros de alta a baixa RAI quanto a diversos parâmetros andrológicos, houve diferença (p<0,05) apenas para motilidade pré-congelação entre os grupos, com resultados superiores para os touros de baixa RAI (≤ 17%). Quanto as correlações dos parâmetros andrológicos e as provas funcionais da qualidade espermática (IA e RAI), somente a motilidade espermática esteve negativamente correlacionada a RAI (–0,51, p<0,05). Concluiu-se que os testes de integridade acrossômica e reação acrossômica induzida são importantes testes complementares para avaliação da qualidade funcional dos espermatozoides, uma vez que apresentam alta variabilidade entre touros e baixa associação com outros parâmetros andrológicos. Entretanto, os mesmos devem ser interpretados dentro dos limites de avaliação dos processos associados a qualidade espermática, e não como um indicador amplo e único da fertilidade ou capacidade fecundante de touros.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance and variability of the results of functional tests for assessing acrosome integrity and heparin-induced acrosome reaction (IAR) in young Nellore bulls, as well as to verify their associations with other andrological parameters. Smears were prepared from 16 frozen semen samples of young Nellore bulls and stained with Trypan blue/Giemsa. The overall average post-freezing acrosome integrity was 85 ± 6%, with a reduction to 76 ± 8% after 4 hours of incubation and no large variation between bulls. Marked differences between bulls of the experiment were observed for the heparin IAR tests, with an average of 18 ± 9% (range 44% to 3%). The results suggest that both heparin and heparin + lysophosphatidylcholine were efficient inducers that should be used together in IAR evaluations. Comparison of the different andrological parameters between bulls with high and low IAR showed a difference (p<0.05) only for pre-freezing motility, with superior results for low IAR bulls (≤ 17%). There were no correlations between the andrological parameters and functional tests of sperm quality (acrosome integrity and IAR). Only pre-freezing sperm motility was negatively correlated with IAR (–0.51, p<0.05). In conclusion, the acrosome integrity and IAR tests are important complementary tests to evaluate the functional quality of sperm since they exhibit high variability between bulls and low association with other andrological parameters. However, the tests should be interpreted within the limits of evaluation of the processes associated with sperm quality and not as a broad indicator of bull fertility or reproductive capacity.

Aplicações dos testes de integridade acrossômica e reação acrossômica induzida para touros da raça Nelore / Applications of acrosome integrity and induced acrosome reaction tests to Nelore bulls

O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar o desempenho e a variabilidade de resultados das provas funcionais de integridade acrossômica (IA) e a reação acrossômica induzida (RAI) em touros jovens da raça Nelore, bem como verificar suas associações com outros parâmetros andrológicos. Foram avaliadas 16 amostras de sêmen congelado de touros jovens da raça Nelore utilizando-se esfregaços em lâminas pelo método de Azul Trypan / Giemsa. A média geral da integridade acrossômica pós-congelação foi de 85 ± 6%, com redução para 76 ± 8% após quatro horas de incubação em banho maria a 37º C com meio de TALP HEPES com albumina. Os testes de RAI tiveram diferenças acentuadas entre os touros do experimento, com média 18 ± 9 %, com números máximos e mínimos de 44% a 3%. Os resultados sugerem que ambos os indutores Heparina e Heparina + Lisofosfatidilcolina (LPC) foram eficientes e devem ser utilizados nas avaliações de RAI. Na comparação entre touros de alta a baixa RAI quanto a diversos parâmetros andrológicos, houve diferença (p<0,05) apenas para motilidade pré-congelação entre os grupos, com resultados superiores para os touros de baixa RAI (≤ 17%). Quanto as correlações dos parâmetros andrológicos e as provas funcionais da qualidade espermática (IA e RAI), somente a motilidade espermática esteve negativamente correlacionada a RAI (–0,51, p<0,05). Concluiu-se que os testes de integridade acrossômica e reação acrossômica induzida são importantes testes complementares para avaliação da qualidade funcional dos espermatozoides, uma vez que apresentam alta variabilidade entre touros e baixa associação com outros parâmetros andrológicos. Entretanto, os mesmos devem ser interpretados dentro dos limites de avaliação dos processos associados a qualidade espermática, e não como um indicador amplo e único da fertilidade ou capacidade fecundante de touros.(AU)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance and variability of the results of functional tests for assessing acrosome integrity and heparin-induced acrosome reaction (IAR) in young Nellore bulls, as well as to verify their associations with other andrological parameters. Smears were prepared from 16 frozen semen samples of young Nellore bulls and stained with Trypan blue/Giemsa. The overall average post-freezing acrosome integrity was 85 ± 6%, with a reduction to 76 ± 8% after 4 hours of incubation and no large variation between bulls. Marked differences between bulls of the experiment were observed for the heparin IAR tests, with an average of 18 ± 9% (range 44% to 3%). The results suggest that both heparin and heparin + lysophosphatidylcholine were efficient inducers that should be used together in IAR evaluations. Comparison of the different andrological parameters between bulls with high and low IAR showed a difference (p<0.05) only for pre-freezing motility, with superior results for low IAR bulls (≤ 17%). There were no correlations between the andrological parameters and functional tests of sperm quality (acrosome integrity and IAR). Only pre-freezing sperm motility was negatively correlated with IAR (–0.51, p<0.05). In conclusion, the acrosome integrity and IAR tests are important complementary tests to evaluate the functional quality of sperm since they exhibit high variability between bulls and low association with other andrological parameters. However, the tests should be interpreted within the limits of evaluation of the processes associated with sperm quality and not as a broad indicator of bull fertility or reproductive capacity.(AU)

The opinion of children and their parents about four different types of dental restorations in a public health service in Brazil.

AIM: To investigate the opinion of children and their parents of four different types of restoration placed in primary molars. METHODS: A mixed method study in which both children and their parents were involved. In the quantitative study, children and parents gave their opinion using a face scale about four different types of restoration immediately after placement, evaluating how satisfied they were. In the qualitative part, children and their parents were interviewed to report their preference among the four types of restoration using dental models and photos. RESULTS: In the quantitative study, 1045 restorations were placed, being conventional restorations (198 with amalgam and 205 with composite resin) and atraumatic interventions [408 with glass ionomer: ART, atraumatic restorative treatment, and 234 with preformed metal crowns (PMCs): Hall technique]. Almost all participants (children and parents) gave a positive opinion (from 94.9 to 100%) on the four types of restoration placed in the children's teeth. There was no statistical significant difference in opinion in terms of acceptance of the four types of restoration placed (Chi square test, p value > 0.05). In the qualitative approach, 18 children and 11 parents were interviewed. If they could choose, children (16/18) preferred the PMCs, while parents (10/11) preferred aesthetic materials such as composite resin and glass ionomer cement. CONCLUSIONS: A high degree of satisfaction was observed with children and their parents in the four types of restoration after placement. However, if it could be chosen in advance, children prefer the PMCs and parents a tooth-coloured material.

Perfiles éticos y jurídicos de las patentes de células madre / Ethical and legal perspectives of stem cells patents

El trabajo presenta los cuestionamientos que se generan en la relación células madre-propiedad industrial. Tratándose de componentes del cuerpo humano no podemos apartar del examen los conflictos éticos, sobre todo cuando las células madre han sido obtenidas mediante la destrucción del embrión humano. El texto marca las diferencias sustanciales que median entre la aplicación de los principios rectores del derecho de patentes y la práctica de las oficinas nacionales de patentes. Por último se analiza el tema a la luz de nuestra ley de patentes 24481...

Snake venom PLA2s inhibitors isolated from Brazilian plants: synthetic and natural molecules.

Ophidian envenomation is an important health problem in Brazil and other South American countries. In folk medicine, especially in developing countries, several vegetal species are employed for the treatment of snakebites in communities that lack prompt access to serum therapy. However, the identification and characterization of the effects of several new plants or their isolated compounds, which are able to inhibit the activities of snake venom, are extremely important and such studies are imperative. Snake venom contains several organic and inorganic compounds; phospholipases A2 (PLA2s) are one of the principal toxic components of venom. PLA2s display a wide variety of pharmacological activities, such as neurotoxicity, myotoxicity, cardiotoxicity, anticoagulant, hemorrhagic, and edema-inducing effects. PLA2 inhibition is of pharmacological and therapeutic interests as these enzymes are involved in several inflammatory diseases. This review describes the results of several studies of plant extracts and their isolated active principles, when used against crude snake venoms or their toxic fractions. Isolated inhibitors, such as steroids, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds, are able to inhibit PLA2s from different snake venoms. The design of specific inhibitors of PLA2s might help in the development of new pharmaceutical drugs, more specific antivenom, or even as alternative approaches for treating snakebites.

Aspectos éticos y jurídicos de la comercialización de partes separadas del cuerpo humano / Ethical and legal aspects of commercialization of individual human body parts

El trabajo expone reflexiones sobre la mercantilización del cuerpo humano, sus partes y sus productos. Centralmente toma el caso particular de las células humanas, que en sí no presenta mayores diferencias con otros, como el de los genes, proteínas, secuencias de genes, medicamentos biológicos etc., por cuya razón las conclusiones a las que arribemos deben reconocer un cierto grado de generalización. En las consideraciones finales se recuerda los enormes cambios en la idea de la comercialización del cuerpo humano, que evocaba la esclavitud y se hay pasado muy rápidamente a una situación donde ella está ligada a los progresos de la Medicina, rematando a la conclusión con la advertencia que el debate no puede quedar circunscripto a los derechos de propiedad industrial en la medida en que se encuentran comprometidos intereses de primer nivel como la salud y la dignidad humana.

This paper presents reflections on the commodification of the human body, its parts and products. It centrallytakes the particular case of human cells, which in itself presents no major differences with other organisms,such as genes, proteins, gene sequences, biological medications, etc, for which reason the conclusions whichcan be reached, may be generalizable in some degree. In the final considerations the enormous changes in theidea of commercialization of the human body are reminded, which evoked slavery and passed very quickly toa situation linked to medical progress. The conclusion with the warning that the debate can not be confined toindustrial property rights to the extent that compromises interests in the first level such as health and humandignity.

Identificação de proteínas do plasma seminal de touros da raça Gir / Identification of seminal plasma proteins in Gir bulls

Estudou-se o perfil de proteínas totais (PLB) e proteínas ligadoras de heparina (PLH) do plasma seminal de touros da raça Gir e suas associações com parâmetros andrológicos e fertilidade in vitro. A concentração da PLB variou de 4,1 a 167,9 mg/mL e da PLH entre 0,02096 e 0,19025 (%). O perfil cromatográfico apresentou nove picos de afinidade para PLB e cinco picos para PLH. As associações significativas foram: PLB x taxa de blastocistos, PLH do pico 1 x taxa de blastocistos, PLH do pico 5 x taxa de clivagem e blastocistos. Nenhuma proteína estudada apresentou associação com parâmetros andrológicos. (AU)

It was studied the seminal plasma total protein (TP) and heparin binding protein (PLH) profiles of Gyr bulls and their associations with andrological parameters and in vitro fertility. Total protein concentration varied between 4,1 a 167,9 mg/ml and heparin binding protein 0,02096 to 0,19025 (%). Chromatographic profile of TP presented nine peaks. PLH presented five affinity peaks. Associations were for: total proteins x blastocysts rate, peak 1 heparin binding proteins x blastocysts rate, peak 5 heparin binding protein x cleavage rate and blastocysts rate. However no protein showed association with andrological parameters. (AU)

Identificação de proteínas do plasma seminal de touros da raça Gir / Identification of seminal plasma proteins in Gir bulls

Estudou-se o perfil de proteínas totais (PLB) e proteínas ligadoras de heparina (PLH) do plasma seminal de touros da raça Gir e suas associações com parâmetros andrológicos e fertilidade in vitro. A concentração da PLB variou de 4,1 a 167,9 mg/mL e da PLH entre 0,02096 e 0,19025 (%). O perfil cromatográfico apresentou nove picos de afinidade para PLB e cinco picos para PLH. As associações significativas foram: PLB x taxa de blastocistos, PLH do pico 1 x taxa de blastocistos, PLH do pico 5 x taxa de clivagem e blastocistos. Nenhuma proteína estudada apresentou associação com parâmetros andrológicos.

It was studied the seminal plasma total protein (TP) and heparin binding protein (PLH) profiles of Gyr bulls and their associations with andrological parameters and in vitro fertility. Total protein concentration varied between 4,1 a 167,9 mg/ml and heparin binding protein 0,02096 to 0,19025 (%). Chromatographic profile of TP presented nine peaks. PLH presented five affinity peaks. Associations were for: total proteins x blastocysts rate, peak 1 heparin binding proteins x blastocysts rate, peak 5 heparin binding protein x cleavage rate and blastocysts rate. However no protein showed association with andrological parameters.

Associação entre o perfil andrológico e a congelação de sêmen de touros da raça Nelore aos dois anos de idade, pré-selecionados pela classificação andrológica por pontos (CAP) / Relationship between andrologic profile and semen freezing in two-year-old Nelore bulls, pre select by breeding soundness evaluation (BSE)

Avaliaram-se as características andrológicas (n=163) e de congelação do sêmen (n=55) de touros jovens da raça Nelore e estudou-se a associação entre essas avaliações, visando à localização de marcadores para alta fertilidade e congelabilidade do sêmen. Registraram-se diferenças (P<0,05) no perfil andrológico dos animais entre os anos, com reflexo no sucesso de congelação do sêmen (P<0,05). Registraram-se 26,6 por cento e 26,1 por cento de descarte de ejaculados, respectivamente, pré e pós-congelação, em função dos aspectos físicos do sêmen. As médias gerais de motilidade espermática, vigor e viabilidade pré e pós-congelação foram de 66,4±5,7 por cento, 4,8±0,4 e 76,3±8,5 por cento e de 29,4±8,5 por cento, 4,6±0,6 e 34,5±11,1 por cento, respectivamente. A taxa de recuperação pós-congelação foi de 44,5±13,4 por cento. Registraram-se correlações (P<0,05) entre peso corporal e motilidade (0,43) e padrão de recuperação espermática pós-congelação (-0,50). Correlações significativas (P<0,05) entre o volume ejaculado e a motilidade espermática (0,28), defeitos espermáticos totais (-0,32) e padrão de recuperação espermática (-0,37) foram estimadas. A correlação entre a concentração espermática e o padrão de recuperação espermática pós-congelação foi de 0,42. Correlações significativas (P<0,05) entre o formato dos testículos e a circunferência escrotal (0,58), os defeitos espermáticos totais (0,33) e a área das glândulas vesiculares (0,43) foram observadas também.(AU)

Andrologic (n=163) and semen freezing (n=55) parameters from young Nelore bulls were evaluated for two consecutive years, as well as their associations searching for andrologic markers for high fertility and semen freezing. Differences in andrologic profiles (P<0.05) between years were registered, reflecting the success of semen freezing, even after andrologic selection. Percentages of 26.6 and 19.5 of discharged ejaculates, pre and post-freezing, respectively, were recorded, due to physical semen parameters. Overall sperm motility, vigor, and viability means were, respectively, 66.4±5.7 percent, 4.8±0.4, and 76.3±8.5 percent pre-freezing; and 29.4±8.5 percent, 4.6±0.6, and 34.5±11.1 percent post-freezing. The post-freezing recovery mean was 44.5±13.4 percent. Significant correlations (P<0.05) between body weight and pre-freezing sperm motility (0.43) and post-freezing sperm recovery standard (-0.50) were estimated. Correlations were also observed (P<0.05) between volume of ejaculate and age (0.50), sperm motility (0.28), total sperm defects (-0.32), and post-freezing sperm recovery standard (-0.37). The correlation between sperm concentration and post-freezing sperm recovery standard was 0.42. Significant correlations (P<0.05) between testes shape and scrotal circumference (0.58), and total sperm defects (0.33) and vesicular gland area (0.43) were also observed.(AU)

Associação entre o perfil andrológico e a congelação de sêmen de touros da raça Nelore aos dois anos de idade, pré-selecionados pela classificação andrológica por pontos (CAP) / Relationship between andrologic profile and semen freezing in two-year-old Nelore bulls, pre select by breeding soundness evaluation (BSE)

Avaliaram-se as características andrológicas (n=163) e de congelação do sêmen (n=55) de touros jovens da raça Nelore e estudou-se a associação entre essas avaliações, visando à localização de marcadores para alta fertilidade e congelabilidade do sêmen. Registraram-se diferenças (P<0,05) no perfil andrológico dos animais entre os anos, com reflexo no sucesso de congelação do sêmen (P<0,05). Registraram-se 26,6 por cento e 26,1 por cento de descarte de ejaculados, respectivamente, pré e pós-congelação, em função dos aspectos físicos do sêmen. As médias gerais de motilidade espermática, vigor e viabilidade pré e pós-congelação foram de 66,4±5,7 por cento, 4,8±0,4 e 76,3±8,5 por cento e de 29,4±8,5 por cento, 4,6±0,6 e 34,5±11,1 por cento, respectivamente. A taxa de recuperação pós-congelação foi de 44,5±13,4 por cento. Registraram-se correlações (P<0,05) entre peso corporal e motilidade (0,43) e padrão de recuperação espermática pós-congelação (-0,50). Correlações significativas (P<0,05) entre o volume ejaculado e a motilidade espermática (0,28), defeitos espermáticos totais (-0,32) e padrão de recuperação espermática (-0,37) foram estimadas. A correlação entre a concentração espermática e o padrão de recuperação espermática pós-congelação foi de 0,42. Correlações significativas (P<0,05) entre o formato dos testículos e a circunferência escrotal (0,58), os defeitos espermáticos totais (0,33) e a área das glândulas vesiculares (0,43) foram observadas também.

Andrologic (n=163) and semen freezing (n=55) parameters from young Nelore bulls were evaluated for two consecutive years, as well as their associations searching for andrologic markers for high fertility and semen freezing. Differences in andrologic profiles (P<0.05) between years were registered, reflecting the success of semen freezing, even after andrologic selection. Percentages of 26.6 and 19.5 of discharged ejaculates, pre and post-freezing, respectively, were recorded, due to physical semen parameters. Overall sperm motility, vigor, and viability means were, respectively, 66.4±5.7 percent, 4.8±0.4, and 76.3±8.5 percent pre-freezing; and 29.4±8.5 percent, 4.6±0.6, and 34.5±11.1 percent post-freezing. The post-freezing recovery mean was 44.5±13.4 percent. Significant correlations (P<0.05) between body weight and pre-freezing sperm motility (0.43) and post-freezing sperm recovery standard (-0.50) were estimated. Correlations were also observed (P<0.05) between volume of ejaculate and age (0.50), sperm motility (0.28), total sperm defects (-0.32), and post-freezing sperm recovery standard (-0.37). The correlation between sperm concentration and post-freezing sperm recovery standard was 0.42. Significant correlations (P<0.05) between testes shape and scrotal circumference (0.58), and total sperm defects (0.33) and vesicular gland area (0.43) were also observed.

Preliminary X-ray crystallographic studies of a tetrameric phospholipase A2 formed by two isoforms of crotoxin B from Crotalus durissus terrificus venom.

Crotoxin B is a basic phospholipase A2 found in the venom of Crotalus durissus terrificus and is one of the subunits that constitute crotoxin. This heterodimeric toxin, which is the main component of C. d. terrificus venom, is completed by an acidic, nontoxic and non-enzymatic component (crotoxin A) and is involved in important envenomation effects, such as neurological disorders, myotoxicity and renal failure. Although crotoxin was first crystallized in 1938, no crystal structure is currently available for crotoxin, crotoxin A or crotoxin B. In this work, the crystallization, X-ray diffraction data collection to 2.28 A resolution and molecular-replacement solution of a novel tetrameric complex formed by two dimers of crotoxin B isoforms (CB1 and CB2) is presented.

Bioética, cuerpo y mercado

Antes de la formidable evolución que en tiempos recientes ha experimentado la biología y en especial las ciencias médicas, la posibilidad de realizar actos de disposición o contratos sobre el cuerpo humano y sus partes parecía una hipótesis de academia. El carácter sagrado de la persona arrastraba a su soporte material. Ahora, el panorama sufre un cambio sustancial al impactar sobre el cuerpo, sus partes y sus productos, los recientes avances científi cos y su correlativa valoración en otros campos, lo que impone la necesidad de adoptar nuevos criterios tanto en el ámbito jurídico como en el ético respecto a la disponibilidad y la comercialidad del cuerpo, sus partes –por minúsculas que fueren- y sus productos. Para introducir en el debate la nueva realidad basta con referirnos a temas tan relevantes como el trasplante de órganos y tejidos, la utilización de seres humanos en la investigación científi ca, el alquiler de úteros para concebir un ser en cuya conformación genética no interviene la “madre de alquiler”, las posibilidades abiertas con la fecundación médica asistida y el patentamiento de partes del cuerpo humano, incluyendo un gen o una secuencia parcial del mismo, embriones, células madres, líneas celulares, etc. Jamás, excepto durante el período de la esclavitud y la servidumbre se había transformado al cuerpo humano en mercancía en tan amplia escala. Estas situaciones respecto a cuya frecuencia no es necesario extenderse crean para la bioética un conjunto de problemas y dilemas de muy compleja elaboración y solución.

Preliminary X-ray crystallographic studies of BthTX-II, a myotoxic Asp49-phospholipase A2 with low catalytic activity from Bothrops jararacussu venom.

For the first time, a complete X-ray diffraction data set has been collected from a myotoxic Asp49-phospholipase A2 (Asp49-PLA2) with low catalytic activity (BthTX-II from Bothrops jararacussu venom) and a molecular-replacement solution has been obtained with a dimer in the asymmetric unit. The quaternary structure of BthTX-II resembles the myotoxin Asp49-PLA2 PrTX-III (piratoxin III from B. pirajai venom) and all non-catalytic and myotoxic dimeric Lys49-PLA2s. In contrast, the oligomeric structure of BthTX-II is different from the highly catalytic and non-myotoxic BthA-I (acidic PLA2 from B. jararacussu). Thus, comparison between these structures should add insight into the catalytic and myotoxic activities of bothropic PLA2s.

Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of a myotoxic Lys49-PLA2 from Bothrops jararacussu venom complexed with p-bromophenacyl bromide.

For the first time, a non-catalytic and myotoxic Lys49-PLA2 (BthTX-I from Bothrops jararacussu venom) has been crystallized with BPB inhibitor. X-ray diffraction data were collected and electron-density calculations showed that the ligand is bound to the His48 residue. BthTX-I with His48 chemically modified by BPB shows strongly reduced myotoxic and cytotoxic activities. This suggests a biological correlation between the modification of His48, which is associated with catalytic activity of PLA2s, and other toxicological activities of Lys49-PLA2s.

Estimativas de parâmetros genéticos de características reprodutivas de touros Nelore, de dois e três anos de idade / Genetic parameter estimates for reproductive traits in young Nelore bulls

Estimaram-se a herdabilidade e a correlação genética entre características ponderais e reprodutivas de 579 touros da raça Nelore, de 19 a 39 meses de idade. As características reprodutivas avaliadas foram: circunferência escrotal (CE); consistência, volume, forma, comprimento e largura dos testículos; motilidade e vigor dos espermatozóides; defeitos espermáticos maiores, menores e totais; e classificação andrológica por pontos (CAP). As características foram analisadas pelo método de máxima verossimilhança restrita, com algoritmos livres de derivadas, sob modelo animal, com inclusão da matriz de numeradores dos coeficientes de parentesco entre os animais e seus ascendentes, utilizando o programa MTDFREML. As estimativas de herdabilidade para consistência testicular, motilidade e vigor espermáticos e defeitos espermáticos maiores, menores e totais e CAP foram, respectivamente, 0,46; 0,10; 0,08; 0,16; 0,09; 0,11 e 0,10. As correlações genéticas entre CE e: peso, volume testicular, motilidade e vigor espermáticos, defeitos espermáticos menores, defeitos totais e CAP foram, respectivamente, 0,72; 0,99; 0,72; 0,60; -0,67; -0,12 e 0,64. As correlações genéticas entre CAP e: peso, volume testicular, defeitos espermáticos maiores e defeitos totais foram, respectivamente, 0,19; 0,71; -0,47 e -0,58. Os resultados sugerem compatibilidade de crescimento corporal e fertilidade nos programas de seleção de reprodutores Nelore.(AU)

Heritabilities and genetic correlations between performance and reproductive traits were estimated using Multiple Trait Derivative-Free Restricted Maximum Likelihood methodology in 579 pasture-raised Nelore bulls that were 19 to 39 months of age. Traits were breeding soundness evaluation (BSE), scrotal circumference (SC), testicular consistency (TC), testicular volume (TV), testicular shape (TS), length and width of right and left testicles, and semen traits including motility (Mot), vigor (Vig), major (MD) sperm defects, minor (mD) sperm defects and total (TD) sperm defects. Heritability estimates were 0.46; 0.10; 0.08; 0.16; 0.09; 0.11 and 0.10 for TC, Mot, Vig, MD, mD, TD and BSE, respectively. Genetic correlations between SC and: body weight (BW), TV, Mot, Vig, mD, TD and BSE were 0.72; 0.99; 0.72; 0.60; -0.67; -0.12 and 0.64, respectively, showing favorable associations between SC and the other traits. Genetic correlations between BSE and: BW, TV, MD and TD were 0.19; 0.71; -0.47 and –0.58, respectively. Results suggest that selection for body weight in Nelore bulls should not hamper fertility, nor should selection for reproductive traits hamper growth.(AU)

Estimativas de parâmetros genéticos de características reprodutivas de touros Nelore, de dois e três anos de idade / Genetic parameter estimates for reproductive traits in young Nelore bulls

Estimaram-se a herdabilidade e a correlação genética entre características ponderais e reprodutivas de 579 touros da raça Nelore, de 19 a 39 meses de idade. As características reprodutivas avaliadas foram: circunferência escrotal (CE); consistência, volume, forma, comprimento e largura dos testículos; motilidade e vigor dos espermatozóides; defeitos espermáticos maiores, menores e totais; e classificação andrológica por pontos (CAP). As características foram analisadas pelo método de máxima verossimilhança restrita, com algoritmos livres de derivadas, sob modelo animal, com inclusão da matriz de numeradores dos coeficientes de parentesco entre os animais e seus ascendentes, utilizando o programa MTDFREML. As estimativas de herdabilidade para consistência testicular, motilidade e vigor espermáticos e defeitos espermáticos maiores, menores e totais e CAP foram, respectivamente, 0,46; 0,10; 0,08; 0,16; 0,09; 0,11 e 0,10. As correlações genéticas entre CE e: peso, volume testicular, motilidade e vigor espermáticos, defeitos espermáticos menores, defeitos totais e CAP foram, respectivamente, 0,72; 0,99; 0,72; 0,60; -0,67; -0,12 e 0,64. As correlações genéticas entre CAP e: peso, volume testicular, defeitos espermáticos maiores e defeitos totais foram, respectivamente, 0,19; 0,71; -0,47 e -0,58. Os resultados sugerem compatibilidade de crescimento corporal e fertilidade nos programas de seleção de reprodutores Nelore.

Heritabilities and genetic correlations between performance and reproductive traits were estimated using Multiple Trait Derivative-Free Restricted Maximum Likelihood methodology in 579 pasture-raised Nelore bulls that were 19 to 39 months of age. Traits were breeding soundness evaluation (BSE), scrotal circumference (SC), testicular consistency (TC), testicular volume (TV), testicular shape (TS), length and width of right and left testicles, and semen traits including motility (Mot), vigor (Vig), major (MD) sperm defects, minor (mD) sperm defects and total (TD) sperm defects. Heritability estimates were 0.46; 0.10; 0.08; 0.16; 0.09; 0.11 and 0.10 for TC, Mot, Vig, MD, mD, TD and BSE, respectively. Genetic correlations between SC and: body weight (BW), TV, Mot, Vig, mD, TD and BSE were 0.72; 0.99; 0.72; 0.60; -0.67; -0.12 and 0.64, respectively, showing favorable associations between SC and the other traits. Genetic correlations between BSE and: BW, TV, MD and TD were 0.19; 0.71; -0.47 and -0.58, respectively. Results suggest that selection for body weight in Nelore bulls should not hamper fertility, nor should selection for reproductive traits hamper growth.

Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of myotoxin I, a Lys49-phospholipase A2 from Bothrops moojeni.

A new myotoxic Lys49-phospholipase A2 isolated from Bothrops moojeni snake venom has been crystallized. The crystals diffracted to 2.18 A resolution using a synchrotron-radiation source and belong to space group C2. The unit-cell parameters are a = 56.8, b = 125.0, c = 64.7 A, beta = 105.5 degrees. Preliminary analysis indicates the presence of four molecules in the asymmetric unit. This may suggest a new quaternary structure for this Lys49-phospholipase A2 in contrast to the dimeric and monomeric structures solved so far for this class of proteins.

Avaliação da libido de touros Nelore adultos em curral e sua associação com características andrológicas e desempenho reprodutivo a campo / Pen libido evaluation of mature Nellore bulls and its association with andrologic characteristics and field reproductive performance

Trinta e oito touros de cinco a seis anos de idade, andrologicamente testados, foram submetidos ao teste de libido em curral, e classificados em três categorias: alta (28,9 por cento dos animais); média (39,5 por cento) e baixa (31,6 por cento) libido. Quatro touros de baixa e quatro de alta libido, andrologicamente avaliados, foram selecionados para teste de fertilidade e observação do comportamento sexual a campo com alta pressão de fêmeas em cio sincronizado. Não foram registradas associaçães entre libido e peso, circunferência escrotal e características seminais (P>0,05). Nos testes de campo, o impulso de monta foi o comportamento mais freqüente com 41 ocorrências. Nos rodeios,durante os picos de cios,observaram-se 75 por cento de montas completas no grupo de touros de alta libido e 25 por cento nos de baixa libido (P<0,05). A taxa de gestação ao final do período de monta foi de 42,1 por cento para touros de alta e 25,0 por cento para os de baixa libido (P<0,05). O teste de libido aplicado em curral foi eficiente em selecionar touros com maior número de montas completas a campo e, conseqüentemente, com taxas de gestação mais elevadas.(AU)

A total of 38 Nellore bulls from five to six years of age, andrologicaly evaluated, were pen tested for libido, and classified as high (28.9%), medium (39.5%) and low (31.6%) libido. Four high and four low libido bulls were selected for a field fertility test and sexual behavior with a large number of synchronized females. No relationships (P>0.05) between libido and weight, scrotal circumference and seminal characteristics were observed. During the field test, impulse of mounting was the most frequent behavior with 41 occurrences. During the peak of estrus manifestation, full mountings were observed in 75% of the roundups, for the high libido bull group, compared to 25% for the low libido bull group (P<0.05). Pregnancy rates were 42.1 for the high and 25.0 % for the low libido bulls (P<0.05). Pen libido test was efficient in selecting full mounting bulls for higher field performance, and consequently higher pregnancy rates.(AU)