Preclinical assessment of an anti-HTLV-1 heterologous DNA/MVA vaccine protocol expressing a multiepitope HBZ protein.

BACKGROUND: Human T-lymphotropic virus 1 (HTLV-1) is associated with the development of several pathologies and chronic infection in humans. The inefficiency of the available treatments and the challenge in developing a protective vaccine highlight the need to produce effective immunotherapeutic tools. The HTLV-1 basic leucine zipper (bZIP) factor (HBZ) plays an important role in the HTLV-1 persistence, conferring a survival advantage to infected cells by reducing the HTLV-1 proteins expression, allowing infected cells to evade immune surveillance, and enhancing cell proliferation leading to increased proviral load. METHODS: We have generated a recombinant Modified Virus Vaccinia Ankara (MVA-HBZ) and a plasmid DNA (pcDNA3.1(+)-HBZ) expressing a multiepitope protein based on peptides of HBZ to study the immunogenic potential of this viral-derived protein in BALB/c mice model. Mice were immunized in a prime-boost heterologous protocol and their splenocytes (T CD4+ and T CD8+) were immunophenotyped by flow cytometry and the humoral response was evaluated by ELISA using HBZ protein produced in prokaryotic vector as antigen. RESULTS: T CD4+ and T CD8+ lymphocytes cells stimulated by HBZ-peptides (HBZ42-50 and HBZ157-176) showed polyfunctional double positive responses for TNF-α/IFN-γ, and TNF-α/IL-2. Moreover, T CD8+ cells presented a tendency in the activation of effector memory cells producing granzyme B (CD44+High/CD62L-Low), and the activation of Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes (CTLs) and cytotoxic responses in immunized mice were inferred through the production of granzyme B by effector memory T cells and the expression of CD107a by CD8+ T cells. The overall data is consistent with a directive and effector recall response, which may be able to operate actively in the elimination of HTLV-1-infected cells and, consequently, in the reduction of the proviral load. Sera from immunized mice, differently from those of control animals, showed IgG-anti-HBZ production by ELISA. CONCLUSIONS: Our results highlight the potential of the HBZ multiepitope protein expressed from plasmid DNA and a poxviral vector as candidates for therapeutic vaccine.

In vitro ovicidal activity of Brongniartia montalvoana against small ruminant gastrointestinal nematodes.

Several plants of the Fabaceae family have been assessed regarding their high nutritional value and anthelmintic properties. The ovicidal effect of the hydroalcoholic extract (Bm-HAE) and subfractions from the aerial parts of Brongniartia montalvoana (Fabaceae) against a mixed strain of gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) (Haemonchus spp., Trichostrongylus spp. and Oesophagostomum spp.) resistant to albendazole sulfoxide, ivermectin and levamisole was evaluated by the egg hatch test (EHT). The Bm-HAE was subjected to liquid-liquid chemical separation with ethyl acetate giving two fractions, an aqueous (Bm-Aq) and an organic (Bm-EtOAct). The purification of the bioactive fraction (Bm-EtOAct) through chromatographic separation resulted in four bioactive subfractions (BmR6, BmR7, BmR8 and BmR10). The treatments were designed as follows: Bm-HAE at 800, 1,500, 3,000 and 6,000 µg/mL, and Bm-Aq, Bm-EtOAct and subfractions (BmR6, BmR7, BmR8 and BmR10) at 100, 200, 400 and 800 µg/mL. Two properly negative controls (distilled water and 2% methanol) and thiabendazole (100 µg/mL) as a positive control were used for each bioassay. The chemical identification of the extract, fractions and subfractions was performed through chromatographic processes like open column chromatography, thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-PDA). Additionally, the GIN eggs exposed to the bioactive compounds were observed through confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The Bm-HAE showed 99.5% egg hatching inhibition (EHI) at 6,000 µg/mL with a lethal concentration (LC50) of 1110 µg/mL. The Bm-EtOAc fraction displayed 99.1% EHI at 800 µg/mL with LC50 = 180 µg/mL. The ovicidal activity of the four subfractions was similar at 800 µg/mL: BmR6 (92% EHI); BmR7 (100% EHI); BmR8 (97.8%); and BmR10 (99.1%). The HPLC-PDA analysis of the bioactive subfractions allowed identification of p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid and coumarin derivatives as major compounds. The CLSM analysis allowed observation of morphological alterations in unhatched larvae caused by bioactive compounds present in the Bm-EtOAc and BmR10. In addition, the flavonoids eriodyctiol, luteolin and cynaroside were described for the first time for B. montalvoana.

Delayed Puberty Due to a WDR11 Truncation at Its N-Terminal Domain Leading to a Mild Form of Ciliopathy Presenting With Dissociated Central Hypogonadism: Case Report.

Pubertal delay in males is frequently due to constitutional delay of growth and puberty, but pathologic hypogonadism should be considered. After general illnesses and primary testicular failure are ruled out, the main differential diagnosis is central (or hypogonadotropic) hypogonadism, resulting from a defective function of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)/gonadotropin axis. Ciliopathies arising from defects in non-motile cilia are responsible for developmental disorders affecting the sense organs and the reproductive system. WDR11-mediated signaling in non-motile cilia is critical for fetal development of GnRH neurons. Only missense variants of WDR11 have been reported to date in patients with central hypogonadism, suggesting that nonsense variants could lead to more complex phenotypes. We report the case of a male patient presenting with delayed puberty due to Kallmann syndrome (central hypogonadism associated with hyposmia) in whom the next-generation sequencing analysis identified a novel heterozygous base duplication, leading to a frameshift and a stop codon in the N-terminal region of WDR11. The variant was predicted to undergo nonsense-mediated decay and classified as probably pathogenic following the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) criteria. This is the first report of a variant in the WDR11 N-terminal region predicted to lead to complete expression loss that, contrary to expectations, led to a mild form of ciliopathy resulting in isolated Kallmann syndrome.

Effects of antibiotic growth promoters and concentrate on intake, digestibility, degradability, and ruminal variables in beef steers / [Efeitos de antibióticos promotores de crescimento e do concentrado sobre o consumo, digestibilidade, degradabilidade e variáveis ruminais de novilhos de corte]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the addition of antibiotic growth promoters to concentrate on intake, digestibility, in situ degradability and ruminal variables in steers. Four steers in a Latin square design were fed hay (ad libitum), concentrate [10g kg-1 of body weight (BW)] and mineral mix (0.272g kg-1 of BW). The additives (0.75mg kg-1 of BW) were incorporated in the mineral mix as follows: Control (no antibiotics), lasalocid (LASA), salinomycin (SALI) or virginiamycin (VIRG). Antibiotic did not affect intake, pH, volatile fatty acids (VFA) and digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter, crude protein, ethereal extract, and non-fibrous carbohydrates. The LASA and SALI tended (P=0.09) to reduce the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber (NDF). The SALI and VIRG tended (P=0.09) to reduce the DM disappearance, and VIRG tended (P=0.06) to reduce the NDF disappearance in the rumen. The SALI and VIRG reduced the effective degradation and only SALI reduced the concentration of N-NH3 in the rumen. Thus, the antibiotics did not affect intake, pH, VFA and digestibility, but decreased the degradation of fiber and only SALI reduced the concentration of ammonia nitrogen (N-NH3) in the rumen.

O objetivo foi avaliar a adição de antibióticos promotores de crescimento ao concentrado sobre o consumo, digestibilidade, degradabilidade in situ e variáveis ruminais de novilhos. Quatro novilhos em um delineamento quadrado latino foram alimentados com feno (ad libitum), concentrado [10g kg-1 do peso corporal (PC)] e mistura mineral (0,272g kg-1 do PC). Os antibióticos (0,75mg kg-1 do PC) foram incorporados à ração: Controle (sem antibióticos), lasalocida (LASA), salinomicina (SALI) ou virginiamicina (VIRG). Os antibióticos não afetaram o consumo, pH, ácidos graxos voláteis (AGV) e digestibilidade da matéria seca (MS), matéria orgânica, proteína bruta, extrato etéreo e carboidratos não fibrosos. A LASA e a SALI tenderam (P=0,09) a reduzir a digestibilidade da fibra em detergente neutro (FDN). A SALI e a VIRG tenderam (P=0,09) a reduzir o desaparecimento da MS, e a VIRG tendeu (P=0,06) a reduzir o desaparecimento da FDN no rúmen. A SALI e a VIRG reduziram a degradação efetiva e somente a SALI reduziu a concentração de nitrogênio amoniacal (N-NH3) no rúmen. Assim, os antibióticos não afetaram o consumo, pH, AGV e digestibilidade, mas diminuiram a degradação da fibra e somente a SALI reduziu a concentração de N-NH3 no rúmen.

AMH and AMHR2 Involvement in Congenital Disorders of Sex Development.

Anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) is 1 of the 2 testicular hormones involved in male development of the genitalia during fetal life. When the testes differentiate, AMH is secreted by Sertoli cells and binds to its specific receptor type II (AMHR2) on the müllerian ducts, inducing their regression. In the female fetus, the lack of AMH allows the müllerian ducts to form the fallopian tubes, the uterus, and the upper part of the vagina. The human AMH gene maps to 19p13.3 and consists of 5 exons and 4 introns spanning 2,764 bp. The AMHR2 gene maps to 12q13.13, consists of 11 exons, and is 7,817 bp long. Defects in the AMH pathway are the underlying etiology of a subgroup of disorders of sex development (DSD) in 46,XY patients. The condition is known as the persistent müllerian duct syndrome (PMDS), characterized by the existence of a uterus and fallopian tubes in a boy with normally virilized external genitalia. Approximately 200 cases of patients with PMDS have been reported to date with clinical, biochemical, and molecular genetic characterization. An updated review is provided in this paper. With highly sensitive techniques, AMH and AMHR2 expression has also been detected in other tissues, and massive sequencing technologies have unveiled variants in AMH and AMHR2 genes in hitherto unsuspected conditions.

Diagnosis of Male Central Hypogonadism During Childhood.

The diagnosis of male central (or hypogonadotropic) hypogonadism, typically based on low luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone levels, is challenging during childhood since both hormones are physiologically low from the sixth month until the onset of puberty. Conversely, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), which show higher circulating levels during infancy and childhood, are not used as biomarkers for the condition. We report the case of a 7-year-old boy with a history of bilateral cryptorchidism who showed repeatedly low FSH and AMH serum levels during prepuberty. Unfortunately, the diagnosis could not be ascertained until he presented with delayed puberty at the age of 14 years. A gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) test showed impaired LH and FSH response. By then, his growth and bone mineralization were partially impaired. Gene panel sequencing identified a variant in exon 15 of FGFR1, affecting the tyrosine kinase domain of the receptor, involved in GnRH neuron migration and olfactory bulb morphogenesis. Testosterone replacement was started, which resulted in the development of secondary sexual characteristics and partial improvement of bone mineral density. This case illustrates the difficulty in making the diagnosis of central hypogonadism in boys during childhood based on classical criteria, and how serum FSH and AMH assessment may be helpful if it is suspected before the age of puberty, and confirm it using next-generation sequencing. The possibility of making an early diagnosis of central hypogonadism may be useful for a timely start of hormone replacement therapy, and to avoid delays that could affect growth and bone health as well as psychosocial adjustment.

Comparison of radiographic and tomographic evaluations for measurement of the Canal Flare Index in dogs / [Comparação entre avaliação radiográfica e tomográfica para mensuração do Canal Flare Index em cães]

The outcome of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in dogs is directly related to surgical planning. Templating of radiographs prior to THA should help the surgeon anticipate prosthesis size and femoral shape allowing canal fill of the proximal metaphysis by the implant ensuring primary stable fixation. The canal flare index (CFI) obtained from radiograph has been used as a measure of risk of complications for the technique in human beings and dogs. However, standard radiographs only provide limited data for the selection of cementless prostheses and the assessment of their fit within the femoral canal, due to factors like radiographic magnification and femoral rotation. Therefore, three-dimensional evaluation based on computed tomography (CT) may be a better tool for CFI measurement. The aim of this study was to compare anatomical measurement with CFI values obtained from craniocaudal radiography and CT. Craniocaudal radiographs using a horizontal radiographic beam (CR), CT, and anatomical macroscopic measurements (A) were obtained from 45 femurs from 23 canine cadavers. The differences between the values of CFI obtained from radiograph (CFI-R), computed tomography on transverse (CFI- TT) and longitudinal axis (CFI-TL) compared to the CFI obtained from macroscopic measurements - gold standard - (CFI-A), and 95% limits of agreement (LOA) between the values, were evaluated by the Bland-Altman method. Dimensions obtained from CT techniques had a greatest mean difference from anatomical and CFI values were also different (P=0.032). Under the experimental conditions, the craniocaudal radiograph, provided the most accurate measurement of the CFI (mean difference: 0.087 ± 0.42).(AU)

O resultado da artroplastia total do quadril (ATQ) em cães está diretamente relacionado ao planejamento cirúrgico. O templating radiográfico pré-operatório da ATQ deve ajudar o cirurgião a prever o tamanho da prótese e o formato do fêmur, o que permitirá um preenchimento ideal da metáfise proximal pelo implante, garantindo, assim, fixação primária estável. O índice de alargamento do canal (Canal Flare Index - CFI) obtido em radiografias tem sido utilizado como fator de risco de complicações para a técnica em humanos e cães. No entanto, as radiografias podem fornecer apenas dados limitados para a seleção de próteses não cimentadas e a avaliação do seu encaixe no canal femoral, devido a fatores como ampliação radiográfica e rotação femoral. Portanto, a avaliação tridimensional baseada na tomografia computadorizada (TC) pode ser uma ferramenta vantajosa para a mensuração do CFI. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a medida anatômica com os valores de CFI obtidos na radiografia craniocaudal e na TC. Radiografias craniocaudais utilizando feixe radiográfico horizontal (CR), tomografia computadorizada e medidas macroscópicas anatômicas (A) foram obtidas de 45 fêmures de 23 cadáveres caninos. As diferenças entre os valores de CFI obtidos na radiografia (CFI-R), na tomografia computadorizada no eixo transversal (CFI-TT) e no eixo longitudinal (CFI-TL), em comparação com os valores de CFI obtidos nas medições macroscópicas - padrão-ouro - (CFI-A) e os limites de concordância de 95% (LOA) entre os valores, foram avaliadas pelo método de Bland-Altman. As dimensões obtidas pelas técnicas de TC apresentaram maior diferença média dos valores anatômicos, e as do CFI também foram diferentes (P=0,032). Nas condições experimentais, a radiografia craniocaudal forneceu a medida mais precisa do CFI (diferença média: 0,087 ± 0,42) para representar o padrão-ouro deste estudo.(AU)

Bridge plating for simple tibial fractures treated by minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis / [Estabilização em ponte de fraturas tibiais simples por osteossíntese minimamente invasiva com placa]

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of bridge plating of simple tibial fractures in dogs by minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO). Medical and radiographic records of twenty-nine dogs with simple tibial fractures that underwent bridge fixation by MIPO were retrospectively evaluated. The clinical outcome was classified considering the presence of lameness at the end of the treatment. The tibial mechanical joint angles were measured and compared with the values described in the literature. Additionally, fragment apposition and implant disposition were evaluated. Based on the modified Radiographic Union Scale for Tibial fractures, the moment of clinical union was determined. Clinically, at the end of treatment, only one patient presented lameness at a trot. While there was no significant difference between the bone alignment in the frontal plane values and the values described in the literature (P>0.05), the caudal proximal tibial angle was significantly higher (P=0.001). The median fragment apposition was considered acceptable. The average bridge plate ratio, plate working length, and plate screw density were 0.8, 0.57, and 0.48, respectively. The median time to clinical union was 30 days. Bridge plating in simple tibial fractures resulted in fast healing and low complication rates.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a efetividade da estabilização em ponte de fraturas tibiais simples em cães utilizando-se a técnica de osteossíntese minimamente invasiva com placa (MIPO). Registros médicos e radiográficos de 29 cães com fraturas simples de tíbia, fixadas em ponte por meio da MIPO, foram retrospectivamente avaliados. O resultado clínico foi classificado com base na deambulação ao final do tratamento. Os ângulos articulares mecânicos da tíbia foram aferidos e comparados aos valores descritos na literatura. Adicionalmente, foram avaliadas a aposição dos fragmentos e a disposição dos implantes. Por meio da escala modificada de união radiográfica para fraturas de tíbia, determinou-se o momento de união clínica. Clinicamente, ao final do tratamento, apenas um animal apresentou claudicação ao trote. Não houve diferença significativa entre o alinhamento ósseo no plano frontal quando comparado com dados da literatura (P>0,05), enquanto, no plano sagital, o ângulo mecânico caudal proximal da tíbia foi significativamente maior (P=0,001). A mediana para aposição dos fragmentos foi considerada aceitável. As médias para relação placa em ponte, comprimento de trabalho da placa e densidade de parafusos da placa foram, respectivamente, 0,8; 0,57 e 0,48. A mediana para união clínica foi de 30 dias. A estabilização em ponte de fraturas tibiais simples resultou em rápida consolidação óssea, com baixas taxas de complicação.(AU)

Chronic Inhibition of FAAH Reduces Depressive-Like Behavior and Improves Dentate Gyrus Proliferation after Chronic Unpredictable Stress Exposure.

Symptoms of depressive disorders such as anhedonia and despair can be a product of an aberrant adaptation to stress conditions. Chronic unpredictable stress model (CUS) can generate an increase in the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) and induce a reduction of neurotrophin signaling and the proliferation of neural progenitors in the adult dentate gyrus, together with increased oxidative stress. Levels of the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) seem to affect these depression-by-stress-related features and could be modulated by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). We aimed to evaluate the effects of FAAH inhibitor, URB597, on depressive-like behavior and neural proliferation of mice subjected to a model of CUS. URB597 was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg for 14 days after CUS. Depressive-like behaviors, anhedonia, and despair were evaluated in the splash and forced swimming tests, respectively. Alterations at the HPA axis level were analyzed using the relative weight of adrenal glands and serum corticosterone levels. Oxidative stress and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) were also evaluated. Fluorescence immunohistochemistry tests were performed for the immunoreactivity of BrdU and Sox2 colabeling for comparison of neural precursors. The administration of URB597 was able to reverse the depressive-like behavior generated in mice after the model. Likewise, other physiological responses associated with CUS were reduced in the treated group, among them, increase in the relative weight of the adrenal glands, increased oxidative stress, and decreased BDNF and number of neural precursors. Most of these auspicious responses to enzyme inhibitor administration were blocked by employing a cannabinoid receptor antagonist. In conclusion, the chronic inhibition of FAAH generated an antidepressant effect, promoting neural progenitor proliferation and BDNF expression, while reducing adrenal gland weight and oxidative stress in mice under the CUS model.

Double plating technique for fixing tibial plateau leveling osteotomy and modified cranial closing wedge ostectomy of the tibia in a dog with cranial cruciate ligament disease and excessive plateau angle: case report / [Técnica de placa dupla para fixação concomitante da osteotomia de nivelamento do platô tibial e ostectomia modificada em cunha de fechamento cranial da tíbia em um cão com doença do ligamento cruzado cranial e ângulo de platô tibial excessivo: relato de caso]

Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) associated to cranial wedge closing ostectomy (CCWO) has been one of the best options to manage cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) disease and excessive tibial plateau angle (TPA) in large dogs, however, the complication rate is potentially high. It is believed that a more robust fixation is necessary to stabilize them and decrease the risk of implant failure. A 6-year-old male American Pit Bull, weighing 36kg, with 90-day history of right hind limb lameness, was diagnosed with CCL disease. Due to the excessive tibial plateau angle (42°), TPLO was associated with a modified CCWO using a double plating technique. A final TPA of 12° was accomplished, and a restricted level of exercises and physiotherapy were recommended. The patient was followed monthly until the fifth month postoperatively, when radiographic bone consolidation and no lameness were observed. By the date of this submission, 3 years after the procedure, the owner has reported no complications. The double plating technique for fixing TPLO and modified CCWO proved to be effective for the treatment of CrCL deficiency in a large dog with an excessive TPA.(AU)

A osteotomia de nivelamento do platô tibial (TPLO) associada à ostectomia modificada em cunha de fechamento cranial da tíbia (CCWO) tem sido uma das melhores opções para tratamento de cães grandes com doença do ligamento cruzado cranial (DLCCr) e ângulo excessivo do platô tibial, mas o índice de complicações é alto. Acredita-se haver necessidade de fixação mais robusta para reduzir as chances de falha nos implantes. Um cão macho, seis anos, da raça American Pit Bull, 36kg, com histórico de claudicação em membro pélvico direito há 90 dias, foi diagnosticado com DLCCr. Devido ao ângulo excessivo do platô tibial (42°), a osteotomia de nivelamento do platô tibial foi associada à ostectomia modificada em cunha de fechamento cranial da tíbia (CCWO) por meio da técnica de placa dupla. No pós-operatório imediato, identificou-se TPA de 12°; exercícios controlados e fisioterapia foram recomendados e a evolução do quadro foi analisada mensalmente até o quinto mês pós-cirurgia. Com 150 dias de evolução, não houve alterações de locomoção e havia ocorrido completa consolidação radiográfica das osteotomias. Até o momento da submissão deste artigo, três anos pós-procedimento, o tutor relata ausência de complicações, via contato telefônico. Portanto, a técnica modificada mostrou-se eficaz no tratamento da DLCCr.(AU)

Bronchogenic cyst in an unusual location.

Bronchogenic cysts are congenital anomalies of the respiratory tract, which can affect children or adults. In adults, these cysts may be asymptomatic or present with symptoms, most often pain or cough. Intrapericardial cysts are rare and represent 27% of bronchogenic cysts. We present the case of a symptomatic adult with an intrapericardial bronchogenic cyst, who underwent surgical resection of the cyst, which successfully relieved his symptoms.

Uso de perifiton en un sistema de policultivo en agro acuicultura integrada en la comunidad indígena de Jimaín, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta (Colombia) / Periphyton-based polyculture in an integrated agri-aquaculture system at the indigenous community of Jimaín, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta (Colombia)

RESUMEN Los Sistemas de Agro Acuicultura Integrada (SAAI) han sido estudiados como opción para la producción de pescado en comunidades con recursos limitados. Así mismo, el uso de perifiton se ha convertido recientemente en una alternativa viable por el aporte de alimento natural de bajo costo. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el efecto del perifiton sobre el desempeño productivo del policultivo Piaractus sp. (cachama híbrida) y Prochilodus magdalenae (bocachico) en SAAI en la comunidad Indígena de Jimaín, Colombia. Se sembraron 1,5 alevinos de cachama híbrida y 1,5 bocachicos/m2, con peso promedio de 0,49 ± 0,14 g y 1,83 ±1,61 g respectivamente, en seis estaques en tierra de 90 m2 tres de los cuales contaron con varas de madera (3 varas/m2) para la fijación de perifiton. La duración del cultivo fue de 135 días. Los tratamientos (CS: con sustrato y SS: sin sustratos) recibieron una dieta suplementaria dos veces al día, calculada como porcentaje de la biomasa con ajuste quincenal. Se realizaron biometrías quincenales. Los datos productivos por especie y para el policultivo se evaluaron mediante ANOVA con un modelo lineal general (p < 0,05). Los datos de peso (g) y longitud estándar (cm) por especie se evaluaron mediante un modelo mixto de medidas repetidas. No se encontraron efectos del sustrato sobre los parámetros productivos analizados tanto para cada especie, como para el policultivo. Se presentó interacción significativa para el peso del bocachico el día 90 (CS: 74,7 y SS: 47,1). Según los resultados obtenidos, la utilización de perifiton y el manejo en policultivo de especies nativas requiere más estudios.

ABSTRACT Integrated agri-aquaculture systems (IAAS) have been studied as an option for fish production in communities with limited resources. Likewise, the use of periphyton has recently become a viable alternative for its contribution of low-cost natural food. The effect of periphyton use on the productive yield of a hybrid cachama and bocachico polyculture in IAAS, was studied in the Jimaín Indigenous community, Colombia. For this experiment, 1.5 hybrid cachama and 1.5 bocachico fingerlings/m2 were stocked with average weights of 0.49 ± 0.14 g and 1.83 ± 1.61 g, respectively, in six 90 m2 land ponds; three of these ponds had wooden dowels (three dowels/m2) for periphyton fixation. The growth evaluation lasted 135 days. The treatments (WS: with substrate and WOS: without substrates) received a supplementary diet, adjusted as a percentage of the biomass with biweekly adjustment, twice a day. Biometrics were performed every two weeks. The productive data by species and for the polyculture were evaluated using an ANOVA with a general linear model (p <0.05). Weight (g) and standard length (cm) data by species were evaluated using a mixed model of repeated measures. No substrate effects were found on the productive parameters analyzed for each species as well as for the polyculture. A significant interaction was observed for bocachico weight on day 90 (WS: 74.7 and WOS: 47.1). According to the obtained results, optimizing the use of periphyton and the management of native species polyculture requires further studies.

Biocompatibilidade do gel de quitosana associado ao glicerol fosfato na reparação de defeitos ósseos induzidos experimentalmente no rádio de coelhos (Oryctolagus cuniculus) / [Biocompatibility of chitosan gel associated with glycerol phosphate for the healing of experimentally induced radial defects in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)]

A engenharia de tecidos caracteriza-se como ciência interdisciplinar, a qual vem desenvolvendo biomateriais para a regeneração do tecido ósseo no âmbito das medicinas humana e veterinária. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar a regeneração óssea obtida da aplicação do hidrogel de quitosana associado ao glicerol fosfato em falha óssea experimentalmente induzida no rádio de coelhos. Foram utilizados 15 coelhos adultos, distribuídos aleatoriamente em dois grupos, representados por cada um dos rádios de cada animal, sendo um grupo tratado com hidrogel de quitosana associado ao glicerol fosfato (grupo biomaterial - GB) e um grupo que não recebeu tratamento com o biomaterial (grupo controle - GC). Os animais foram avaliados radiograficamente, por densitometria óptica e análise histológica, nos períodos 30, 60 e 90 dias pós-operatórios. Houve superioridade estatística na média geral das avaliações radiográficas do GB (2,33±0,48) sobre o GC (1,77±0,06). As médias gerais de avaliação densitométrica do GB foram superiores às do GC, sendo 6,207±1,374 e 5,71±1,512, respectivamente. A avaliação histopatológica do GB foi superior à do GC nos períodos de 30, 60 e 90 dias. Assim, é possível afirmar que o hidrogel de quitosana constitui biomaterial de características desejáveis, promovendo consolidação óssea mais rápida e eficiente, sem causar reações adversas.(AU)

Tissue engineering is an interdisciplinary science that has been developing biomaterials for bone regeneration in medicine and veterinary medicine, following an imminent need. The aim of this study was to evaluate bone regeneration after use of chitosan hydrogel associated with glycerol phosphate in experimentally induced bone gap in the radius of rabbits. Fifteen adult rabbits were randomly distributed in two experimental groups, represented by each radius of every single animal. The animals in the Biomaterial Group (GB) were treated with a glycerol phosphate-associated chitosan hydrogel and in the Control Group (GC) they received no treatment with the biomaterial. The animals were evaluated clinically, radiographically, histologically and by optic densitometry at 30, 60 and 90 days postoperatively. There was statistical superiority in the general average of the radiographic estimates of GB (2.33 ± 0.48) over the CG (1.77 ± 0.06). The general averages of GB densitometric evaluation were higher than the CG, being 6.207 ± 1.374 and 5.71 ± 1.512, respectively. Histopathological evaluation of GB was superior to CG in periods of 30, 60 and 90 days. Chitosan hydrogel constitutes a biomaterial of desired characteristics, promoting faster and more efficient bone repair when compared to GC.(AU)

Plant Silicon Amendment Does Not Reduce Population Growth of Schizaphis graminum or Host Quality for the Parasitoid Lysiphlebus testaceipes.

Interactions between different pest control methods can affect Integrated Pest Management efficiency. This study sought to evaluate (1) if Si accumulation is related to the level of constitutive resistance in sorghum genotypes, (2) the level of Si induces resistance by antibiosis in sorghum genotypes with different levels of constitutive resistance to Schizaphis graminum (Rondani) (reared individualized or in colonies), and (3) the fitness of Lysiphlebus testaceipes (Cresson) in aphids reared on Si-treated and untreated plants. Several experiments were conducted under greenhouse conditions, using sorghum genotypes with different levels of resistance grown in pots with or without the addition of Si to the soil. The susceptible (BR007B), moderately resistant (GB3B), and highly resistant (TX430XGR111) genotypes all absorbed more Si when it was added to the soil compared with when it was not amended. However, the final Si content of treated plants was not related to the level of constitutive resistance among treated genotypes. While Si soil application did reduce the fecundity of individualized aphids reared on the susceptible and moderately resistant sorghum plants, it did not reduce populational growth of aphid colonies, independent of the level of plant's constitutive resistance. Parasitoid (L. testaceipes) had higher weight when reared from aphids fed on plants with added Si. Sorghum × constitutive resistance × S. graminum interactions were affected by plant Si content only for individualized aphids but not for aphid colonies. Sorghum × S. graminum × L. testaceipes interactions suggest that Si can have, overall, a positive effect on the biological control of S. graminum.

Prevalencia de endoparásitos gastrointestinales y ectoparásitos en serpientes ex situ en Barranquilla, Colombia / Prevalence of gastrointestinal endoparasites and ectoparasites in ex situ snakes in Barranquilla, Colombia

RESUMEN Objetivo. Identificar la prevalencia de endoparásitos y ectoparásitos en serpientes ex situ en la Fundación Botánica y Zoológica de Barranquilla "Barranquilla Zoo". Materiales y métodos. Para esto se analizaron muestras de materia fecal y ectoparásitos de 2 colúbridos (Leptophis ahaetulla y Spilotes pullatus), 2 dipsadinos (Oxybelys aeneus y Thamnodynastes paraguanae) y 13 boidos (9 individuos de la especie Boa constrictor, 2 de Epicrates maurus y 2 de Eunectes murinus) utilizando los métodos de flotación en solución saturada de azúcar y observación directa. Resultados. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron que el 65% (11/17) de los animales evaluados fueron positivos a la presencia de parásitos, de los cuales el 91% (10/11) de los ejemplares pertenece a la familia Boidae presentando en su mayoría nematodos, mientras que en los dipsadinos se observaron principalmente protozoarios y los colúbridos resultaron negativos. Finamente como ectoparásitos se identificaron 2 especies de garrapatas (Amblyomma dissimile y Ornothodoros turicata) halladas en ejemplares de Boa constrictor, Epicrates maurus y Spilotes pullatus. Conclusiones. La identificación de las formas parasitarias en este trabajo representa una contribución para el conocimiento de los parásitos en serpientes ex situ en Colombia. Provee información para desarrollar medidas profilácticas y permite comparar los datos sobre las formas parasitarias encontradas con muestreos de estas especies en vida silvestre y bajo cuidados humanos.

ABSTRACT Objective. Identify the prevalence of internal and external parasites in ex situ snakes at the Fundación Botánica y Zoológica de Barranquilla "Barranquilla Zoo". Materials and methods. Stool samples and ectoparasites of 2 colubrids (Leptophis ahaetulla and Spilotes pullatus), 2 diapsids (Oxybelys aeneus and Thamnodynastes paraguanae) and 13 boids (9 individuals of Boa constrictor, 2 of Epicrates maurus and 2 Eunectes murinus) were analyzed using flotation method in saturated sugar solution and direct observation. Results. The results showed that 65% (11/17) of the population was positive to the presence of parasites. In relation to the positive specimens, 91% (10/11) belong to the Boidae family, presenting mostly nematodes, in the dipsadid's samples mainly protozoans were observed and the colubrid's samples were negative. Regarding ectoparasites, 2 species of ticks (Amblyomma dissimile and Ornothodoros turicata) were found in specimens of Boa constrictor, Epicrates maurus and Spilotes pullatus. Conclusions. The identification of parasitic forms in this paper represents a contribution to the knowledge of parasites in snakes ex situ in Colombia. It provides information to develop prophylactic measures against these pathological agents and also allows comparing the data about the parasitic forms found with other researches in the wild and in captivity.

Células tronco mesenquimais autólogas no tratamento da osteoartrite induzida por colagenase na articulação coxofemoral de coelhos (Oryctolagus cuniculus) / Autologous mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of collagenaseinduced osteoarthritis in the coxofemoral joint of rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Na atualidade, a pesquisa envolvendo células-tronco mesenquimais destaca-se na busca de avanços na reparação da cartilagem articular. Objetivou-se, no presente estudo, comparar a regeneração cartilaginosa da articulação coxofemoral de coelhos, com e sem o transplante de células-tronco mesenquimais autólogas, por meio de exames radiográficos e histopatológicos. Dois grupos, com 15 animais da espécie leporina cada, foram submetidos à indução química de osteoartrite com solução de colagenase 2% na articulação coxofemoral direita. No Grupo 1 (Células-tronco) realizou-se a aplicação  intra-articular de células-tronco mesenquimais autólogas. Já o Grupo 2 (Controle) foi constituído por animais submetidos à aplicação intra-articular de solução salina estéril. Foram realizadas avaliações radiográficas e histopatológicas aos 30, 60 e 90 dias após a aplicação. Os resultados histológicos indicam que células-tronco mesenquimais (Grupo 1) melhoraram discretamente a qualidade do tecido de reparo, de acordo com os critérios da escala semi-quantitativa ICRS 1 (International Cartilage Repair Society). O Grupo 1 (Células-Tronco) demonstrou superioridade em relação ao Grupo 2 nos parâmetros: Superfície articular, matriz extracelular e distribuição celular, demonstrando que as células-tronco foram benéficas no tratamento da osteoartrite.(AU)

The aim of this study was to compare cartilage regeneration of the hip in rabbits, with and without the transplantation of autologous mesenchymal stem cells. Thirty rabbits were submitted to chemical induction of osteoarthritis with a 2% colagenase in the right hip. They were divided into 2 groups of 15 animals each: Group 1 (intra-articular application of autologous mesenchymal stem cells) and Group 2 (control - intra-articular application of sterile saline solution). Radiographic and histopathological evaluations were performed at 30, 60 and 90 days after application. The mesenchymal stem cells group (Group 1) showed slight improvement of the quality of the repair tissue, according to the semi-quantitative scale criteria ICRS 1 (International Cartilage Repair Society). The Group 1 (Stem Cells) showed superiority in relation to Group 2, especially in the parameters joint surface, extracellular matrix and cellular distribution, demonstrating that stem cells were beneficial in the treatment of osteoarthritis.(AU)

Células tronco mesenquimais autólogas no tratamento da osteoartrite induzida por colagenase na articulação coxofemoral de coelhos (Oryctolagus cuniculus) / Autologous mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of collagenaseinduced osteoarthritis in the coxofemoral joint of rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Na atualidade, a pesquisa envolvendo células-tronco mesenquimais destaca-se na busca de avanços na reparação da cartilagem articular. Objetivou-se, no presente estudo, comparar a regeneração cartilaginosa da articulação coxofemoral de coelhos, com e sem o transplante de células-tronco mesenquimais autólogas, por meio de exames radiográficos e histopatológicos. Dois grupos, com 15 animais da espécie leporina cada, foram submetidos à indução química de osteoartrite com solução de colagenase 2% na articulação coxofemoral direita. No Grupo 1 (Células-tronco) realizou-se a aplicação  intra-articular de células-tronco mesenquimais autólogas. Já o Grupo 2 (Controle) foi constituído por animais submetidos à aplicação intra-articular de solução salina estéril. Foram realizadas avaliações radiográficas e histopatológicas aos 30, 60 e 90 dias após a aplicação. Os resultados histológicos indicam que células-tronco mesenquimais (Grupo 1) melhoraram discretamente a qualidade do tecido de reparo, de acordo com os critérios da escala semi-quantitativa ICRS 1 (International Cartilage Repair Society). O Grupo 1 (Células-Tronco) demonstrou superioridade em relação ao Grupo 2 nos parâmetros: Superfície articular, matriz extracelular e distribuição celular, demonstrando que as células-tronco foram benéficas no tratamento da osteoartrite.

The aim of this study was to compare cartilage regeneration of the hip in rabbits, with and without the transplantation of autologous mesenchymal stem cells. Thirty rabbits were submitted to chemical induction of osteoarthritis with a 2% colagenase in the right hip. They were divided into 2 groups of 15 animals each: Group 1 (intra-articular application of autologous mesenchymal stem cells) and Group 2 (control - intra-articular application of sterile saline solution). Radiographic and histopathological evaluations were performed at 30, 60 and 90 days after application. The mesenchymal stem cells group (Group 1) showed slight improvement of the quality of the repair tissue, according to the semi-quantitative scale criteria ICRS 1 (International Cartilage Repair Society). The Group 1 (Stem Cells) showed superiority in relation to Group 2, especially in the parameters joint surface, extracellular matrix and cellular distribution, demonstrating that stem cells were beneficial in the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Performance of Nellore calves in tropical pasture consuming different types of concentrated supplements / Desempenho de bezerros Nelore em pastagem tropical consumindo diferentes tipos de suplementos concentrados

The use of different types of concentrated supplements on the performance of Nellore calves grazing Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu in the dry season was evaluated. The experiment was conducted on 24 ha divided into 12 paddocks. Seventy-two calves with initial body weight (BW) 176±14kg for 140 days of experiment were used. Evaluated treatments included: Mineral, Salt+urea (mineral with 30% urea), Protein (supplementation with 45% crude protein (CP) and 46% total digestible nutrients (TDN)); and Protein+energy (with 28% CP and 73% TDN). The Mineral, Salt+urea, and Protein were offered ad libitum, and the Protein+energy 5g/kg BW. Protein+energy showed the highest (P< 0.05) intake (3.66g/kg BW) followed by the Protein (1.61), Salt+urea (0.36), and Mineral (0.32). The two latter supplements were not significantly different (P> 0.05). The highest (P< 0.05) average daily gain (ADG, kg/day) was observed in the Protein+energy (0.074). Average daily gains for the Protein and Salt+urea (0.014 and -0.024, respectively) were not significantly different (P> 0.05), but were significantly higher (P< 0.05) than the Mineral (-0.085). Therefore, during the dry season, to prevent the loss of bovine weight the supplements must supply in addition to minerals, also energy, non-protein nitrogen (NNP), and true protein.(AU)

Foi avaliada a utilização de tipos de suplementos concentrados sobre o desempenho de bezerros Nelore em pasto de Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu na época seca. O experimento foi conduzido em 24ha divididos em 12 piquetes. Foram utilizados 72 bezerros com peso corporal (PC) inicial de 176±14kg por 140 dias de experimento. Os tratamentos foram: mineral, mineral+ureia (mineral com 30% de ureia); proteinado (suplemento com 45% de PB e 46% de nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT)); suplemento energético (suplemento com 28% de PB e 73% de NDT). Mineral, mineral+ureia e proteinado foram fornecidos ad libitum, e o suplemento proteico-energético 5g/kg de PC. O consumo do suplemento (g/kg de PC) foi maior (P<0,05) para o suplemento proteico-energético (3,66), seguido por proteinado (1,61), mineral+ureia (0,36) e mineral (0,32). Esses dois últimos não diferiram entre si (P>0,05). O maior (P<0,05) GMD (kg/dia) foi para o suplemento proteico-energético (0,074), seguido por proteinado e mineral+ureia (0,014 e -0,024, respectivamente), que não diferiram entre si (P>0,05). Todos estes foram superiores (P<0,05) ao mineral (-0,085). Assim, durante a época seca, para prevenir a perda de peso de bovinos, os suplementos devem fornecer, além de minerais, energia, nitrogênio não proteico (NNP) e proteína verdadeira.(AU)

Performance of Nellore calves in tropical pasture consuming different types of concentrated supplements / Desempenho de bezerros Nelore em pastagem tropical consumindo diferentes tipos de suplementos concentrados

The use of different types of concentrated supplements on the performance of Nellore calves grazing Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu in the dry season was evaluated. The experiment was conducted on 24 ha divided into 12 paddocks. Seventy-two calves with initial body weight (BW) 176±14kg for 140 days of experiment were used. Evaluated treatments included: Mineral, Salt+urea (mineral with 30% urea), Protein (supplementation with 45% crude protein (CP) and 46% total digestible nutrients (TDN)); and Protein+energy (with 28% CP and 73% TDN). The Mineral, Salt+urea, and Protein were offered ad libitum, and the Protein+energy 5g/kg BW. Protein+energy showed the highest (P< 0.05) intake (3.66g/kg BW) followed by the Protein (1.61), Salt+urea (0.36), and Mineral (0.32). The two latter supplements were not significantly different (P> 0.05). The highest (P< 0.05) average daily gain (ADG, kg/day) was observed in the Protein+energy (0.074). Average daily gains for the Protein and Salt+urea (0.014 and -0.024, respectively) were not significantly different (P> 0.05), but were significantly higher (P< 0.05) than the Mineral (-0.085). Therefore, during the dry season, to prevent the loss of bovine weight the supplements must supply in addition to minerals, also energy, non-protein nitrogen (NNP), and true protein.(AU)

Foi avaliada a utilização de tipos de suplementos concentrados sobre o desempenho de bezerros Nelore em pasto de Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu na época seca. O experimento foi conduzido em 24ha divididos em 12 piquetes. Foram utilizados 72 bezerros com peso corporal (PC) inicial de 176±14kg por 140 dias de experimento. Os tratamentos foram: mineral, mineral+ureia (mineral com 30% de ureia); proteinado (suplemento com 45% de PB e 46% de nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT)); suplemento energético (suplemento com 28% de PB e 73% de NDT). Mineral, mineral+ureia e proteinado foram fornecidos ad libitum, e o suplemento proteico-energético 5g/kg de PC. O consumo do suplemento (g/kg de PC) foi maior (P<0,05) para o suplemento proteico-energético (3,66), seguido por proteinado (1,61), mineral+ureia (0,36) e mineral (0,32). Esses dois últimos não diferiram entre si (P>0,05). O maior (P<0,05) GMD (kg/dia) foi para o suplemento proteico-energético (0,074), seguido por proteinado e mineral+ureia (0,014 e -0,024, respectivamente), que não diferiram entre si (P>0,05). Todos estes foram superiores (P<0,05) ao mineral (-0,085). Assim, durante a época seca, para prevenir a perda de peso de bovinos, os suplementos devem fornecer, além de minerais, energia, nitrogênio não proteico (NNP) e proteína verdadeira.(AU)