Use of alternative diluent ACP-Lact® and coconut water powder (ACP) in cryopreservation of goat semen and fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) in half-breed goats.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate semen cryopreservation with ACP-Lact® diluent, which consists of coconut water powder (ACP) added to goat milk powder. After thawing, the samples were evaluated for sperm kinetics, membrane evaluation and in vivo insemination. For cryopreservation, a pool was made with the ejaculate of six goats, diluted in four equal aliquots for the respective treatments: T1 (ACP-Lact®); T2 (ACP-Lact® 50%); T3 (ACP + 2.5% egg yolk) and T4 (Tris + 2.5% egg yolk). After dilution of the treatments, the samples were placed in 0.5 ml straws and chilled at a rate of -1.07°C/min. After reaching 4°C and stabilizing for one hour, the straws were placed in nitrogen vapour at -60°C for 15 minutes and then immersed in liquid nitrogen (-196ºC). The straws were thawed in a 37°C water bath and kinetic assessments were performed immediately using a computerized semen analysis program (CSA), viability (EN), membrane functionality (HOST), mitochondrial activity (DAB) and DNA integrity assessment of spermatozoa. For the in vivo experiment, ten goats were inseminated, divided into two groups of five goats each, G1 inseminated with ACP-Lact® and G2 with ACP, by fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI). Regarding the kinetic parameters, the ACP-Lact® treatment showed higher progressive motility (PM) and sperm velocity than the other treatments (36.77%). In the VSL parameter the ACP-Lact diluent was superior to ACP and Tris. In viability the treatment with ACP-Lact® was superior to the treatment with Tris, 95% and 83% respectively. In FTAI two goats were born out of the 5 goats inseminated with ACP-Lact®. It was concluded that the use of ACP-Lact® for cryopreservation of caprine semen is efficient in maintaining seminal parameters during thawing in vitro and in vivo and proved to be a good alternative extender for the caprine species.

Spectrophotometric method for determination of Colossoma macropomum (tambaqui) sperm concentration / Determinação da concentração espermática de tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) por espectrofotometria

To assist the reproductive management of tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) males in laboratory and commercial fish farming, a linear regression model was obtained from concentration curves using the spectrophotometric method. Twenty-two tambaqui males with an average age of three years old were selected and divided into two groups containing 11 animals each. Both groups alternately received a single dose of carp pituitary extract (CPE; 2.0 mg/kg body weight, intracoelomic). Sperm was collected 14 h after hormonal treatment and diluted (1:4000; sperm:formaldehyde saline). The concentration was estimated by counting spermatozoa in a Neubauer chamber and by using a spectrophotometer (λ=540 nm). Individual sperm concentration ranged from 11.40 to 71.13 × 109 sperm/mL. The degree of transmittance ranged from 62.1% to 95.0%. There was a significant correlation (r2 = 0.966; p < 0.0001) between sperm concentration analyzed in a Neubauer chamber and transmittance at 540 nm. Analysis by spectrophotometry and the prediction provided by the equation Y=100.293 - 0.509X proved to be an efficient and fast method for estimating sperm concentration in tambaqui and can be used in routine procedures in artificial fish reproduction laboratories.

Visando auxiliar o manejo reprodutivo de machos de tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) em piscicultura de laboratório e comercial, obteve-se um modelo de regressão linear a partir de curvas de concentração por método espectrofotométrico. Foram selecionados 22 machos de tambaqui com idade média de três anos. Eles foram divididos em dois grupos contendo 11 animais cada. Ambos os grupos receberam alternadamente uma única dose de extrato de hipófise de carpa (EHC; 2,0 mg/kg de peso corporal, intracelomático). O esperma foi coletado 14 horas após o tratamento hormonal e diluído (1:4000; esperma: solução salina formaldeído). A concentração foi estimada por contagem de espermatozoides em câmara de Neubauer e por espectrofotômetro (λ=540 nm). A concentração espermática individual variou de 11,40 a 71,13 × 109 espermatozoides/mL. O grau de transmitância variou de 62,1 a 95,0%. Houve correlação significativa (r2 = 0,966; p < 0,0001) entre a concentração espermática analisada em câmara de Neubauer e a transmitância em 540 nm. A análise por espectrofotometria e a predição pela equação Y=100,293 - 0,509X mostrou ser um método eficiente e rápido para estimar a concentração espermática de tambaqui, podendo ser utilizado em procedimentos de rotina em laboratórios de reprodução artificial de peixes.

Assessment of coconut water added to Numida meleagris egg yolk as cryoprotectant for goat semen.

Effects were assessed of the dilutants TRIS and ACP - 101c® with the addition of different guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) egg yolk concentrations. Fifteen ejaculates were collected from five goats of the Anglo Nubian breed. The ejaculates were pooled and then divided into 12 groups, two control groups (GC1 TRIS, with 2.5% Gallus gallus domesticus hen egg yolk GOGD), (GC2 Control Group ACP - 101c®, with the addition of 2.5% Gallus gallus domesticus hen egg yolk GOGD) and ten experimental groups (EG), containing TRIS and ACP added with different concentrations of egg yolk from guinea hen (Numida meleagris) (TRIS 2,5% GONM; TRIS 5% GONM; TRIS 10% GONM; TRIS 15% GONM; TRIS 20% GONM; ACP® 2,5% GONM; ACP® 5% GONM; ACP® 10% GONM; ACP® 15% GONM; ACP® 20% GONM). Then cryopreservation was carried out and the samples stored in liquid nitrogen (-196 °C). After seven days, the samples were thawed and assessed for spermatic kinetics, immunofluorescence and sperm morphology. Analysis of GOMN by the CASA system showed that the various parameters were similar to those of GOGD (P>0.05). The membrane integrity, mitochondrial potential and the acrosome were not influenced by the treatment (P>0.05) nor by the dilutant used for cryopreservation (P>0.05). The spermatic morphology was also preserved by the different GOGD and GONM concentrations in the ACP® and TRIS dilutants, with no statistically significant differences (P<0.05). It was concluded that Numida meleagris egg yolk, as external membrane cryoproctant added to the dilutants ACP-101c® and TRIS, improved goat semen quality.

Extra Virgin Coconut Oil as a Cryoprotector for Cryopreservation of Caprine Semen.

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of powdered coconut water-based diluent (ACP-101c) associated with extra virgin coconut oil (CO) as an external cryoprotectant in the conservation of cryopreserved buck sperm. For cryopreservation, the ejaculates from four bucks were pooled and divided into three aliquots and diluted at 37°C for treatments T1 (ACP-101c + 2.5% egg yolk +7% glycerol), T2 (ACP-101c + 2.5% CO +7% glycerol), and T3 (ACP-101c + 5% CO +7% glycerol). Then, the samples were packaged and cooled at a rate of 1.07°C/min decrease. Upon reaching 4°C, the samples were stored in a refrigerator at 4°C for 30 minutes for stabilization. After this period, the straws were frozen in nitrogen vapor for 15 minutes and then immersed and stored in liquid nitrogen at -196°C. After thawing, the samples were evaluated for sperm kinetics, plasma membrane integrity, acrosomal integrity, membrane functionality, mitochondrial activity (MA), and sperm morphology. In this study, no statistically significant differences were observed between the three treatments regarding the kinetic parameters (p > 0.05; Table 1). However, in relation to the velocities, a reduction was observed beyond the expected. There were no statistically significant differences between the diluents T1, T2, and T3 for the three velocities (curvilinear velocity [VCL], linear velocity [VSL], average path velocity [VAP]). Furthermore, no statistically significant differences were observed (p > 0.05) among treatments regarding the evaluation of membrane integrity, the functional membrane, MA, and sperm morphology after thawing. In conclusion, the use of CO in concentrations of 2.5% and 5.0% is effective in maintaining goat sperm quality, presenting itself as an alternative diluent for international programs of artificial insemination and embryo transfers. [Table: see text].

Assessment of coconut water added to Numida meleagris egg yolk as cryoprotectant for goat semen

Effects were assessed of the dilutants TRIS and ACP - 101c® with the addition of different guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) egg yolk concentrations. Fifteen ejaculates were collected from five goats of the Anglo Nubian breed. The ejaculates were pooled and then divided into 12 groups, two control groups (GC1 TRIS, with 2.5% Gallus gallus domesticus hen egg yolk GOGD), (GC2 Control Group ACP - 101c®, with the addition of 2.5% Gallus gallus domesticus hen egg yolk GOGD) and ten experimental groups (EG), containing TRIS and ACP added with different concentrations of egg yolk from guinea hen (Numida meleagris) (TRIS 2,5% GONM; TRIS 5% GONM; TRIS 10% GONM; TRIS 15% GONM; TRIS 20% GONM; ACP® 2,5% GONM; ACP® 5% GONM; ACP® 10% GONM; ACP® 15% GONM; ACP® 20% GONM). Then cryopreservation was carried out and the samples stored in liquid nitrogen (-196 °C). After seven days, the samples were thawed and assessed for spermatic kinetics, immunofluorescence and sperm morphology. Analysis of GOMN by the CASA system showed that the various parameters were similar to those of GOGD (P>0.05). The membrane integrity, mitochondrial potential and the acrosome were not influenced by the treatment (P>0.05) nor by the dilutant used for cryopreservation (P>0.05). The spermatic morphology was also preserved by the different GOGD and GONM concentrations in the ACP® and TRIS dilutants, with no statistically significant differences (P<0.05). It was concluded that Numida meleagris egg yolk, as external membrane cryoproctant added to the dilutants ACP-101c® and TRIS, improved goat semen quality.(AU)

Human cornea conservation in coconut water solution / Conservação de córneas humanas em solução de água de coco

ABSTRACT Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the physical and chemical characteristics of coconut water and to analyze the use of coconut water solution for the conservation of human corneas. Methods: This was an experimental and controlled study performed at the Eye Bank of the General Hospital of Fortaleza. The coconut water-based solution was prepared at the Goat Seed Technology Laboratory of the Department of Veterinary Medicine of the State University of Ceará. Discarded corneas from the Eye Bank were divided into two groups for sequential experiments: G1, coconut water-based solution (experimental group), and G2, conservative treatment with OPTISOL GS® (control group). The osmolality of corneas in G1 was analyzed sequentially at 275, 300, 325, 345, 365, and 400 mOsm/L. The viability of the corneas was determined by specular microscopy and biomicroscopy on the first, third, and seventh days. Results: Corneas preserved in a solution of 365 and 345 mOsm/L had a transparency of 8 mm until the third day and had diffuse edema in the periphery, central folds, and partial epithelium loss until the seventh day. The 365-mOsm/L solution was associated with the worst results during follow-up. Corneas placed in Optisol-GS retained their original aspects. Conclusions: Coconut water-based preservative partially maintained corneal transparency and epithelial integrity, especially during the first three days of follow-up. The coconut water-based solutions used were not effective for use as preservatives in a human eye bank.(AU)

RESUMO Objetivos: As características físico-químicas e o baixo custo da água de coco foram fundamentais para o este estudo. Analisar o uso de solução a base de água de coco como meio de conservação de córneas humanas em banco de olhos. Métodos: Estudo experimental e controlado realizado no Banco de Olhos do Hospital Geral de Fortaleza. Utilizou-se solução à base de água de coco preparada no laboratório de Tecnologia de Sêmen de Caprinos do Departamento de Medicina Veterinária da Universidade Estadual do Ceará. Foram usadas córneas de descartes divididas em dois grupos: G1 (Conservante com água de coco) - grupo experimental e G2 (grupo Conservante com OPTISOL GS®) grupo controle, em experimentos sequenciais. A osmolaridade do G1 foi analisada sequencialmente com 275, 300, 325, 345, 365 e 400 mOsm/L. A viabilidade das córneas foram realizadas por microscopia especular e biomicroscopia nos 1º, 3º e 7º dias. Resultados: As córneas em solução de 365 e 345 mOsm/L apresentavam transparência nos 8mm centrais até o 3º dia, com edema em toda periferia, dobras centrais e edema 2+, com perda parcial do epitélio até 7º dia, sendo o de maior osmolaridade com melhor transparência durante o seguimento. Grupo com 275, 300 e 400 mOsm/L, córnea opaca, edema difuso, perda total do epitélio no 3º dia. As córneas em Optisol mantiveram seus aspectos. Conclusões: O conservante à base de água de coco manteve em parte a transparência corneana e a integridade epitelial, especialmente nos primeiros 3 dias de seguimento. A solução conservante com água de coco nas formulações utilizadas não se mostrou eficaz para o uso em banco de olhos humanos.(AU)

Human cornea conservation in coconut water solution.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the physical and chemical characteristics of coconut water and to analyze the use of coconut water solution for the conservation of human corneas. METHODS: This was an experimental and controlled study performed at the Eye Bank of the General Hospital of Fortaleza. The coconut water-based solution was prepared at the Goat Seed Technology Laboratory of the Department of Veterinary Medicine of the State University of Ceará. Discarded corneas from the Eye Bank were divided into two groups for sequential experiments: G1, coconut water-based solution (experimental group), and G2, conservative treatment with OPTISOL GS® (control group). The osmolality of corneas in G1 was analyzed sequentially at 275, 300, 325, 345, 365, and 400 mOsm/L. The viability of the corneas was determined by specular microscopy and biomicroscopy on the first, third, and seventh days. RESULTS: Corneas preserved in a solution of 365 and 345 mOsm/L had a transparency of 8 mm until the third day and had diffuse edema in the periphery, central folds, and partial epithelium loss until the seventh day. The 365-mOsm/L solution was associated with the worst results during follow-up. Corneas placed in Optisol-GS retained their original aspects. CONCLUSIONS: Coconut water-based preservative partially maintained corneal transparency and epithelial integrity, especially during the first three days of follow-up. The coconut water-based solutions used were not effective for use as preservatives in a human eye bank.

Plasma rico em plaquetas e células tronco no tratamento de desmopatia dos ligamentos colaterais distais em equino / Platelet-rich plasma and stem cells in the treatment of desmopathy of the distal collateral ligaments in equine

Os equinos são animais muito utilizados em eventos esportivos, sendo, desta forma, propensos a sofrer acidentes que podem levar a lesões articulares e ósseas. Na rotina clínica, artifícios como o uso de raio X e ultrassonografia são de grande importância para que o correto diagnóstico seja feito e a conduta clínica possa ser melhor planejada. Além disso, alguns biomateriais, como o plasma rico em plaquetas (PRP) e células-tronco mesenquimais (CTMs), têm se inserido nos protocolos terapêuticos, demonstrando grande efetividade no tratamento desse tipo de lesão, devido à grande quantidade de fatores de crescimento presentes em ambos os biomateriais. O PRP é um derivado sanguíneo, caracterizado pela alta concentração plaquetária. Foi produzido a partir de duas centrifugações, a primeira para separar o plasma das hemácias e a segunda para concentrar as plaquetas. As CTMs foram isoladas de tecido adiposo, cultivadas, transportadas e aplicadas de forma autóloga, assim como o PRP. No presente relato, um equino, fêmea, Brasileiro de Hipismo com 8 anos, foi diagnosticado com desmopatia nos ligamentos colaterais da articulação interfalângica distal e foi tratado com PRP e CTMs, de forma associada e sequencial. Foi encontrada uma melhora do quadro clínico, significativa, em comparação aos dados encontrados na literatura, demonstrando grande potencialidade do uso associado de PRP e CTMs no tratamento de lesões ligamentares.

Horses are animals widely used in sporting events and are therefore prone to accidents that can lead to joint and bone injuries. In the clinical routine, devices such as the use of X-ray and ultrasound are of great importance for the correct diagnosis to be made and the clinical conduct can be better planned. In addition, some biomaterials such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been included in the therapeutic protocols, demonstrating great effectiveness in the treatment of this type of injury due to the large amount of growth factors present in both biomaterials. PRP is a blood derivative, characterized by high platelet concentration. It is produced from two centrifugations, the first to separate plasma from red blood cells and the second to concentrate platelets. MSCs were isolated from adipose tissue, cultured, transported and applied autologously, as well as PRP. In the present report, an 8-year-old female Brazilian equestrian horse was diagnosed with desmopathy in the collateral ligaments of the distal interphalangeal joint and was treated with PRP and MSCs in an associated and sequential manner. A significant improvement in the clinical picture was found in comparison to the data found in the literature, demonstrating great potential of the associated use of PRP and MSCs in the treatment of ligament injuries.

Effect of adding anethole to the cryopreservation medium (powdered coconut water) on morphology, kinetics, and oxidative stress of buck sperm / Efeito da adição de anethole ao meio de criopreserção (água de coco em pó) na morfologia, cinética e estresse oxidativo do sêmen de bode

The quality of post-thawing goat sperm is critical to the success of artificial insemination protocols and may be influenced by extenders, cryoprotectants, and antioxidant substances. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the antioxidant anethole on goat sperm diluted in preservation medium based on powdered coconut water (ACP-101c) and frozen. For that, each ejaculate was submitted to the following treatments: ACP-101c (control); control plus supplementation with 30, 300, or 2000 µg/ mL anethole. The samples were thawed and evaluated for morphology, kinetics, membrane integrity, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The addition of anethole increased morphological abnormalities (P < 0.05), however, it did not affect sperm kinetics. Flow cytometry analysis showed that sperm cells cryopreserved with 300 µg/mL anethole had lower acrosome integrity than those cryopreserved in other treatments. Evaluation of oxidative stress revealed that cells stored in the presence of 2000 µg/mL anethole had small amounts of ROS when compared to those preserved in the control medium alone or supplemented with 300 µg/mL anethole (P < 0.05). After cryopreservation of sperm with 2000 µg/mL anethole, the highest percentage of viable sperm without ROS was observed (P < 0.05). In conclusion, despite reducing ROS levels, the supplementation of anethole in ACP-101c did not affect sperm kinetics or membrane integrity post-thawing, however, it did cause morphological damage to sperm.(AU)

A qualidade do espermatozoide caprino pós-descongelação é crítica para o sucesso dos protocolos de inseminação artificial e pode ser influenciada por extensores, crioprotetores e substâncias antioxidantes. Portanto, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos do antioxidante anetole sobre espermatozoides caprinos diluídos em meio de conservação à base de água de coco em pó (ACP-101c) e congelados. Para tanto, cada ejaculado foi submetido aos seguintes tratamentos: ACP-101c (controle); controle mais suplementação com 30, 300 ou 2000 µg / mL de anetole. As amostras foram descongeladas e avaliadas quanto à morfologia, cinética, integridade de membranas e espécies reativas de oxigênio. A adição de anetole aumentou as anormalidades morfológicas (P < 0,05), no entanto, não afetou a cinética dos espermatozoides. A análise da citometria de fluxo mostrou que as células de esperma criopreservadas com 300 µg / mL anethole tinham integridade acrosma menor do que aquelas criopreservadas em outros tratamentos. A avaliação do estresse oxidativo revelou que as células armazenadas na presença de 2000 µg / mL anethole apresentaram pequenas quantidades de ROS quando comparadas às preservadas em meio de controle isoladamente ou suplementadas com 300 µg / mL anethole (P < 0,05). Após a criopreservação de espermatozoides com 2000 µg / mL anethole, observou-se a maior porcentagem de espermatozoides viáveis sem ROS (P < 0,05). A população com espermatozoides viáveis sem ROS foi maior quando utilizado 2.000 µg / mL (P < 0,05). Em conclusão, apesar de reduzir os níveis de ROS, a suplementação de anetole em ACP-101c não afetou a cinética espermática e a integridade da membrana pós-descongelação, entretanto, causou danos morfológicos nos espermatozoides.(AU)

Sêmen ovino e caprino imunossexado e diluído em meio de conservação à base de água de coco em pó (ACP101/102c) / Ram and goat semen immunosexed and diluted in powdered coconut water-based preservation medium (ACP101/102c)

Sperm sexing aims to separate sperm populations in carriers of the "X" or "Y" chromosome. Currently, flow cytometry is a technique that allows greater accuracy; however, it causes structural changes in sperm, reduces viability, and has a high cost. As a result, other methods have been researched, including immunosexing, which uses monoclonal antibodies to detect sex-specific surface antigens. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the immunosexing technique using a monoclonal antibody against sex-specific protein (HY) in the conservation of ram and goat semen in ACP101/102c. Ejaculates from five rams and five goats were collected with the aid of an artificial vagina; they were evaluated and submitted to the immunosexing protocol, according to the manufacturer's recommendations, using the Monoclonal Antibody Kit specific for mammalian sperm with "Y" chromosomes (HY; HY Biotechnology, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil). After sexing, the supernatant was resuspended in the cryopreservation diluent: ACP ram (ACP101/102c + 20% egg yolk + 7% glycerol) and ACP goat (ACP101/102c + 2.5% egg yolk + 7% glycerol), packaged in 0.25 mL straws, refrigerated at 4°C, stabilized for 30 min, frozen in liquid nitrogen vapor (-60°C) for 15 min, immersed in liquid nitrogen, and stored in cryogenic cylinders. The samples were evaluated in natura (T1), after immunosexing (T2) and after thawing (T3) for sperm motility subjectively using conventional microscopy (40x). Plasma membrane integrity (IMP) and sperm cell morphology were evaluated by the smear staining technique using eosin-nigrosine dye, and the percentages of healthy and morphologically defect spermatozoa were determined. In the evaluation of ram semen regarding sperm motility and IMP, no statistically significant differences were observed between treatments after sexing in the evaluation of absolute data (P > 0.05), with the difference being observed only between T1 and T2, and T3 (P < 0.05). Regarding the relative percentage and sperm morphology, no statistically significant differences were observed (P > 0.05). Regarding the evaluation of goat semen samples, the motility parameters were consistent with the technique submitted; however, the IMP data did not appear as expected, requiring further evaluation for a better assessment of the technique for this species. The data obtained from ram semen submitted to the immunosexing protocol, regarding the absolute evaluation of motility and IMP, demonstrated that the non-sexed semen (T1) was superior to the sexed treatments (T2 and T3); however, it is noteworthy that freezing started with approximately 50% of the cells, since the immunosexing technique results in a loss of viability of approximately 50% of the sperm, which corresponds to the ratio of sperm carrying the X chromosome. In addition, when the data in this study were transformed into relative values, no statistical differences were observed, indicating that the immunosexing protocol, as well as the freezing protocol, did not significantly affect the quality of ram sperm cells. In relation to the immunosexing of goat semen, future studies should be conducted in vitro to define a more appropriate protocol for the species and, in addition, in vivo studies should be performed to prove the quality of the technique. It was concluded that the immunosexing process using a monoclonal antibody against sex-specific protein (HY) associated with the use of powdered coconut water diluent (ACP101/102c) in the cryopreservation of semen proved to be efficient in the in vitro evaluation of ovine species.(AU)

Alterações posturais: a caracterização de discentes de Fisioterapia em uma instituição do ensino superior em Fortaleza/CE / Postural changes: the characterization of Physiotherapy students in a higher education institution in Fortaleza/CE

Na postura padrão, a coluna apresenta curvaturas normais e os ossos dos membros inferiores ficam em alinhamento. Quando o componente estrutural é alterado, o corpo humano modifica-se para desempenhar tal situação da melhor forma possível, o que pode ocasionar em um desvio postural. O objetivo desta pesquisa é avaliar a postura e seus comprometimentos em discentes de um curso de Fisioterapia, traçando o perfil clínico socioeconômico, conhecendo os comprometimentos posturais dos participantes da pesquisa. Tratou-se de um estudo transversal, descritivo e quantitativo realizado entre os meses de agosto de 2015 a junho de 2016, no Centro Universitário Estácio do Ceará com 32 discentes do curso de Fisioterapia. Os dados foram coletados através de uma ficha de avaliação postural desenvolvida para o inquérito e analisada no programa Excel® 2013 e confrontados com a literatura vigente sobre o assunto. O gênero feminino foi predominante em 75% da amostra. Em relação ao estado civil dos participantes, 87,5% eram solteiros. A média de idade foi de 24,4 anos. Em relação ao Índice de Massa Corpórea, foi evidenciado que 28 participantes (87,5%) apresentaram um peso normal, de acordo com sua altura e peso. Para verificar a presença de escoliose, foi realizado o Teste de Adams. Evidenciou-se que 72% dos participantes apresentaram gibosidade, 12,50% apresentaram gibosidade lombar, 43,75% apresentaram gibosidade torácica e 15,63% apresentaram gibosidade toracolombar. A maioria dos estudantes apresentou escoliose. No entanto, estudos com uma amostra maior devem ser realizados, a fim de que resultados mais abrangentes possam ser obtidos. (AU)

In the standard posture, the spine has normal curvatures and the bones of the lower limbs are in alignment. When the structural component is changed, the human body changes to perform this situation in the best possible way, which can cause a postural deviation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the posture and its commitments in students of a Physical therapy course, tracing the socioeconomic clinical profile, knowing the postural impairments of the participants. This was a cross-sectional, descriptive and quantitative study carried out between August 2015 and June 2016, at the Estácio do Ceará University Center with 32 students. The data were collected through a postural assessment form developed for the survey and analyzed using the Excel® program and compared with the current literature. The female gender was predominant in 75% of the sample. Regarding the participants' marital status, 87.5% were single. The average age was 24.4 years. Regarding the Body Mass Index, it was evidenced that 28 participants (87.5%) had a normal weight, according to their height. To test for the presence of scoliosis, the Adams Test was performed. 72% of the participants presented gibosity, 12.50% lumbar gibosity, 43.75% thoracic gibosity and 15.63% thoraco-lumbar gibosity. Most of the students had scoliosis. However, studies with a larger sample should be carried out to obtain more accurate results. (AU)

Aspectos econômicos e avaliação do período de viabilidade de espermatozoides ovino imunossexados e diluídos em meio de conservação à base de água de coco em pó (ACP-102c) / Economic aspects and evaluation of the viability period of immunosexed and diluted ram sperm in powdered coconut water conservation extender (ACP-102c)

Background: Sperm sexing is increasing in use because pre-determining the sex of the calf allows greater profitability and promotes significant gains in the productive systems that utilize the technique. Deployment of a low-cost and practical preservation methodol-ogy may further favor the cost-benefit ratio. Flow cytometry, the most commonly used sexing technique, has high costs and is very restricted. As an alternative, immunosexing has been studied, which uses sex-specific monoclonal antibodies. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the immunosexing technique in conjunction with cryopreservation in ACP-102c and examine its economic aspects with regard to ram semen.Materials, Methods & Results: Ejaculates from two ram individuals were collected with the aid of an artificial vagina, evaluated, and submitted to the immunosexing protocol, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, using the Monoclonal Antibody Kit specific for mammalian sperm with “Y” chromosomes (HY; HY Biotechnology, Rio de Janeiro-RJ, Brazil). After sexing, the supernatant was resuspended in the cryopreservation diluent: ACP (ACP-102c + 20% egg yolk + 7% glycerol), packaged in 0.25 mL straws, refrigerated to 4°C, stabilized for 30 min, frozen in liquid nitrogen vapors (-60°C) for 15 min, immersed in liquid nitrogen, and stored in cryogenic cylinders. The samples were thawed and evaluated for sperm kinetics both by using computerized semen analysis with SCA® software (Sperm Class Analyzer version 5.0) and subjectively comparing specimens from the two animals using conventional microscopy (40x). Plasma membrane integrity (IMP) and sperm cell morphology were evaluated by the smear staining technique...

Biotecnologias como ferramentas para o desenvolvimento do Nordeste do Brasil / Biotechnologies as tools for the development of northeast Brazil

A biotecnologia tem sido um ramo de estudo diferencial para diversos setores da sociedade, apresentando, através de bioprodutos e bioprocessos, melhorias para o avanço e desenvolvimento da região Nordeste do Brasil. Vale pontuar que um importante meio que traz anualmente acréscimos inovadores à área biotecnológica é o setor acadêmico, que através de cursos stricto sensu a nível de mestrado e doutorado, promovem pesquisas relevantes para vários setores como economia, agroindústria, saúde, dentre outros. Exemplos disso são: o curso de Doutorado em Biotecnologia da RENORBIO) e o Programa Profissional de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia em Saúde Humana e Animal (PPGBiotec). O presente artigo se sobre o percurso trilhado pelos cursos stricto sensu mencionados, bem como ressalta a relevância da Biotecnologia para a região Nordeste do Brasil, em seus diferentes campos de investigação, com ênfase nos Recursos Naturais, Agropecuária e Saúde. Exemplificamos as biotecnologias utilizando a água de coco que vêm sendo trabalhadas desde os anos 1980’s e sua evolução até os dias atuais. Com base em toda a potencialidade da Região Nordeste para a geração de bioprodutos e bioprocessos, ressaltamos que os mesmos só serão úteis se realmente forem tratados como inovação tecnológica, gerarem nota fiscal e impactarem positivamente para o bem estar da sociedade.

Biotechnology has been a branch of differential study for various sectors of society, presenting, through bioproducts and bioprocesses, improvements for the advancement and development of the Northeast region of Brazil. It is worth noting that an important means that annually brings innovative additions to the biotechnological area is the academic sector, which through stricto sensu courses at the master's and doctoral level, promote relevant research for various sectors such as economics, agribusiness, health, among others. Examples of this are: the Doctorate course in Biotechnology (RENORBIO) and the Professional Graduate Program in Biotechnology in Human and Animal Health (PPGBiotec). This article is about the path taken by the stricto sensu courses mentioned, as well as emphasizing the relevance of Biotechnology for the Northeast region of Brazil, in its different research fields, with emphasis on Natural Resources, Agriculture and Health. We exemplify biotechnologies using coconut water that has been worked since the 1980's and its evolution to the present day. Based on all the potential of the Northeast Region for the generation of bioproducts and bioprocesses, we emphasize that they will only be useful if they are really treated as technological innovation, generate invoices and have a positive impact on society's well-being.

Utilização de proteínas anticongelantes na criopreservação seminal de peixes / Use of anti-freezing proteins in seminal fish cryopreservation

A criopreservação seminal é uma das biotécnica reprodutivas mais promissoras para a aquicultura, pois permite o transporte de gametas, garante melhorias genéticas em espécies desejadas e minimiza a assincronia entre machos e fêmeas reprodutores. Apesar dos benefícios, danos celulares podem ser ocasionados durante o processo de congelação, causando a diminuição da qualidade dos espermatozoides. Sendo assim, estudos que busquem alternativas que minimizem tais danos são de grande importância. As proteínas anticongelantes (AFPs) são importantes compostos originados a partir de processos evolutivos em organismos que vivem em ambientes polares. As AFPs podem ser utilizadas como possíveis agentes crioprotetores, pois são capazes de diminuir os cristais de gelo e proteger a membrana plasmática das células durante o processo de congelação. Dessa forma, esta revisão tem como objetivo reunir informações acerca da utilização de proteínas anticongelantes na conservação do sêmen de peixes e apresentar os principais resultados encontrados na literatura. Observou-se que a utilização dessas substâncias na criopreservação seminal em peixes promoveu melhorias nas taxas de motilidade espermática, velocidades e integridade de membrana plasmática. Tais melhorias foram observadas de maneira interespecífica. Portanto, ainda são necessários estudos mais aprofundados com intuito de verificar o efeito das AFPs na capacidade de fertilização, buscando a melhor opção para suplementação do meio.

Seminal cryopreservation is one of the most promising reproductive biotechniques for aquaculture, as it allows the transport of gametes, ensures genetic improvements in desired species and minimizes asynchrony between breeding males and females. Despite the benefits, cell damage can be caused during the freezing process, causing decreased quality of sperm. Therefore, studies that seek alternatives that minimize such damage are of great importance. Antifreeze proteins (AFPs) are important compounds originated from evolutionary processes in organisms that live in polar environments. AFPs can be used as possible cryoprotective agents, as they are able to decrease ice crystals and protect the plasma membrane of cells during the freezing process. Thus, this review aims to gather information about the use of antifreeze proteins in the conservation of fish semen and present the main results found in the literature. It was observed that the use of these substances in seminal cryopreservation in fish promoted improvements in the rates of sperm motility, velocities and integrity of the plasma membrane. Such improvements were observed in an interspecific manner. Therefore, further studies are needed in order to verify the effect of AFPs on fertilization capacity, seeking the best option for supplementing the medium.

Morfologia do espermatozoide ovino após resfriamento em diluentes à base de água de coco durante o período chuvoso e seco no Nordeste do Brasil / Morphology of ovine spermatozoa after cooling in extenders based in coconut water during the rainy and dry season in the Northeast of Brazil

The aim of this work went to evaluate the spermatic morphology of ram semen cooled to 4 °C in nature (INCW) and in powdered coconut water (ACP-102®) during the rainy and dry season in the Northeast of Brazil. The semen of four rams was collected, divided into two fractions and diluted in INCW and ACP-102®. The samples were conditioned in refrigerator to 4 °C and after 2, 24 and 48 hours of cooling were submitted at thermo resistant test (TT). Semen slides were executed in the beginning and in the end of TT to evaluation of the spermatic morphology (SM). The SM parameters, within different preservation times (2, 24 and 48h) and extenders (INCW and ACP-102®), were expressed in media and standard deviation (SD) and submitted to Tukey test (p<0.05). According to the diluted samples in ACP-102®, was observed a percentage increase of morphology normal spermatozoon in the rainy season as was verified in the dry season. In conclusion, the ACP-102® extender present good preserve capacity. Agreed with this study, the raining season did not have influence on the characteristics of spermatic morphology.

Uso da polpa desidratada do fruto de Mauritia flexuosa como suplemento ao diluente de congelação do sêmen caprino / Use of dehydrated pulp of Mauritia flexuosa fruit as supplement to freezing extender of goat semen

Objetivou-se avaliar a qualidade in vitro do sêmen caprino descongelado utilizando diluentesuplementado com a polpa desidratada do fruto de Mauritia flexuosa. O experimento foi dividido emduas etapas. Na primeira, foram utilizados 15 pools,fracionados em 13 tratamentos com diferentesconcentrações do extrato bruto. Os melhores resultados de viabilidade espermática obtidos na primeiraetapa foram utilizadas na segunda etapa (criopreservação). Para isto, foram formados dois gruposutilizando 15 pools, sendo um diluente constituído (TRIS + 7% glicerol + melhores concentrações doextrato bruto) e outro pelo diluente (TRIS + 2,5% gema de ovo + 7% glicerol + melhores concentraçõesdo extrato bruto). Na primeira etapa os grupos contendo baixa quantidade do extrato não diferiram dogrupo controle (P≤0,05). Todavia na segunda etapa, após descongelação, os grupos TRIS contendo 2,5%ou 0% de gema de ovo apresentaram diferença significativa, onde o grupo TB06GLGE foi superior aogrupo controle. Portanto, a polpa desidratada do fruto de Mauritia flexuosa,nas concentrações de 0,25% a1%, não atuou de forma benéfica sobre parâmetros espermáticos do sêmen caprino após acriopreservação/descongelação.

The objective was to evaluate the in vitro quality of the thawed goat semen using diluentsupplemented with the dehydrated pulp of the Mauritia flexuosa fruit. The experiment was divided intotwo stages. In the first, 15 fractionated pools were used in 13 treatments with different concentrations ofthe crude extract. The best results of sperm viability obtained in the first experimental stage were used inthe second experimental stage (cryopreservation). Afterwards, two groups were formed using 15 pools,one constituent (TRIS + 7% glycerol + best concentrations of the crude extract) and another by thediluent (TRIS + 2,5% egg yolk + 7% glycerol + best concentrations of the crude extract). In the firststage, the groups containing low amount of extract did not differ from the control group (P≤0.05).However, in the second stage, after thawing, TRIS groups containing 2.5% or 0% egg yolk presented asignificant difference, where the TB06GLGE group was superior to the control group. Therefore, thedehydrated fruit pulp of Mauritia flexuosa at concentrations of 0.25% to 1% did not benefit goat semenparameters after cryopreservation/thawing.

Morfologia do espermatozoide ovino após resfriamento em diluentes à base de água de coco durante o período chuvoso e seco no Nordeste do Brasil / Morphology of ovine spermatozoa after cooling in extenders based in coconut water during the rainy and dry season in the Northeast of Brazil

The aim of this work went to evaluate the spermatic morphology of ram semen cooled to 4 °C in nature (INCW) and in powdered coconut water (ACP-102®) during the rainy and dry season in the Northeast of Brazil. The semen of four rams was collected, divided into two fractions and diluted in INCW and ACP-102®. The samples were conditioned in refrigerator to 4 °C and after 2, 24 and 48 hours of cooling were submitted at thermo resistant test (TT). Semen slides were executed in the beginning and in the end of TT to evaluation of the spermatic morphology (SM). The SM parameters, within different preservation times (2, 24 and 48h) and extenders (INCW and ACP-102®), were expressed in media and standard deviation (SD) and submitted to Tukey test (p<0.05). According to the diluted samples in ACP-102®, was observed a percentage increase of morphology normal spermatozoon in the rainy season as was verified in the dry season. In conclusion, the ACP-102® extender present good preserve capacity. Agreed with this study, the raining season did not have influence on the characteristics of spermatic morphology.(AU)

Uso da polpa desidratada do fruto de Mauritia flexuosa como suplemento ao diluente de congelação do sêmen caprino / Use of dehydrated pulp of Mauritia flexuosa fruit as supplement to freezing extender of goat semen

Objetivou-se avaliar a qualidade in vitro do sêmen caprino descongelado utilizando diluentesuplementado com a polpa desidratada do fruto de Mauritia flexuosa. O experimento foi dividido emduas etapas. Na primeira, foram utilizados 15 pools,fracionados em 13 tratamentos com diferentesconcentrações do extrato bruto. Os melhores resultados de viabilidade espermática obtidos na primeiraetapa foram utilizadas na segunda etapa (criopreservação). Para isto, foram formados dois gruposutilizando 15 pools, sendo um diluente constituído (TRIS + 7% glicerol + melhores concentrações doextrato bruto) e outro pelo diluente (TRIS + 2,5% gema de ovo + 7% glicerol + melhores concentraçõesdo extrato bruto). Na primeira etapa os grupos contendo baixa quantidade do extrato não diferiram dogrupo controle (P≤0,05). Todavia na segunda etapa, após descongelação, os grupos TRIS contendo 2,5%ou 0% de gema de ovo apresentaram diferença significativa, onde o grupo TB06GLGE foi superior aogrupo controle. Portanto, a polpa desidratada do fruto de Mauritia flexuosa,nas concentrações de 0,25% a1%, não atuou de forma benéfica sobre parâmetros espermáticos do sêmen caprino após acriopreservação/descongelação.(AU)

The objective was to evaluate the in vitro quality of the thawed goat semen using diluentsupplemented with the dehydrated pulp of the Mauritia flexuosa fruit. The experiment was divided intotwo stages. In the first, 15 fractionated pools were used in 13 treatments with different concentrations ofthe crude extract. The best results of sperm viability obtained in the first experimental stage were used inthe second experimental stage (cryopreservation). Afterwards, two groups were formed using 15 pools,one constituent (TRIS + 7% glycerol + best concentrations of the crude extract) and another by thediluent (TRIS + 2,5% egg yolk + 7% glycerol + best concentrations of the crude extract). In the firststage, the groups containing low amount of extract did not differ from the control group (P≤0.05).However, in the second stage, after thawing, TRIS groups containing 2.5% or 0% egg yolk presented asignificant difference, where the TB06GLGE group was superior to the control group. Therefore, thedehydrated fruit pulp of Mauritia flexuosa at concentrations of 0.25% to 1% did not benefit goat semenparameters after cryopreservation/thawing.(AU)

Biotecnologias como ferramentas para o desenvolvimento do Nordeste do Brasil / Biotechnologies as tools for the development of northeast Brazil

A biotecnologia tem sido um ramo de estudo diferencial para diversos setores da sociedade, apresentando, através de bioprodutos e bioprocessos, melhorias para o avanço e desenvolvimento da região Nordeste do Brasil. Vale pontuar que um importante meio que traz anualmente acréscimos inovadores à área biotecnológica é o setor acadêmico, que através de cursos stricto sensu a nível de mestrado e doutorado, promovem pesquisas relevantes para vários setores como economia, agroindústria, saúde, dentre outros. Exemplos disso são: o curso de Doutorado em Biotecnologia da RENORBIO) e o Programa Profissional de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia em Saúde Humana e Animal (PPGBiotec). O presente artigo se sobre o percurso trilhado pelos cursos stricto sensu mencionados, bem como ressalta a relevância da Biotecnologia para a região Nordeste do Brasil, em seus diferentes campos de investigação, com ênfase nos Recursos Naturais, Agropecuária e Saúde. Exemplificamos as biotecnologias utilizando a água de coco que vêm sendo trabalhadas desde os anos 1980s e sua evolução até os dias atuais. Com base em toda a potencialidade da Região Nordeste para a geração de bioprodutos e bioprocessos, ressaltamos que os mesmos só serão úteis se realmente forem tratados como inovação tecnológica, gerarem nota fiscal e impactarem positivamente para o bem estar da sociedade.(AU)

Biotechnology has been a branch of differential study for various sectors of society, presenting, through bioproducts and bioprocesses, improvements for the advancement and development of the Northeast region of Brazil. It is worth noting that an important means that annually brings innovative additions to the biotechnological area is the academic sector, which through stricto sensu courses at the master's and doctoral level, promote relevant research for various sectors such as economics, agribusiness, health, among others. Examples of this are: the Doctorate course in Biotechnology (RENORBIO) and the Professional Graduate Program in Biotechnology in Human and Animal Health (PPGBiotec). This article is about the path taken by the stricto sensu courses mentioned, as well as emphasizing the relevance of Biotechnology for the Northeast region of Brazil, in its different research fields, with emphasis on Natural Resources, Agriculture and Health. We exemplify biotechnologies using coconut water that has been worked since the 1980's and its evolution to the present day. Based on all the potential of the Northeast Region for the generation of bioproducts and bioprocesses, we emphasize that they will only be useful if they are really treated as technological innovation, generate invoices and have a positive impact on society's well-being.(AU)

Utilização de proteínas anticongelantes na criopreservação seminal de peixes / Use of anti-freezing proteins in seminal fish cryopreservation

A criopreservação seminal é uma das biotécnica reprodutivas mais promissoras para a aquicultura, pois permite o transporte de gametas, garante melhorias genéticas em espécies desejadas e minimiza a assincronia entre machos e fêmeas reprodutores. Apesar dos benefícios, danos celulares podem ser ocasionados durante o processo de congelação, causando a diminuição da qualidade dos espermatozoides. Sendo assim, estudos que busquem alternativas que minimizem tais danos são de grande importância. As proteínas anticongelantes (AFPs) são importantes compostos originados a partir de processos evolutivos em organismos que vivem em ambientes polares. As AFPs podem ser utilizadas como possíveis agentes crioprotetores, pois são capazes de diminuir os cristais de gelo e proteger a membrana plasmática das células durante o processo de congelação. Dessa forma, esta revisão tem como objetivo reunir informações acerca da utilização de proteínas anticongelantes na conservação do sêmen de peixes e apresentar os principais resultados encontrados na literatura. Observou-se que a utilização dessas substâncias na criopreservação seminal em peixes promoveu melhorias nas taxas de motilidade espermática, velocidades e integridade de membrana plasmática. Tais melhorias foram observadas de maneira interespecífica. Portanto, ainda são necessários estudos mais aprofundados com intuito de verificar o efeito das AFPs na capacidade de fertilização, buscando a melhor opção para suplementação do meio.(AU)

Seminal cryopreservation is one of the most promising reproductive biotechniques for aquaculture, as it allows the transport of gametes, ensures genetic improvements in desired species and minimizes asynchrony between breeding males and females. Despite the benefits, cell damage can be caused during the freezing process, causing decreased quality of sperm. Therefore, studies that seek alternatives that minimize such damage are of great importance. Antifreeze proteins (AFPs) are important compounds originated from evolutionary processes in organisms that live in polar environments. AFPs can be used as possible cryoprotective agents, as they are able to decrease ice crystals and protect the plasma membrane of cells during the freezing process. Thus, this review aims to gather information about the use of antifreeze proteins in the conservation of fish semen and present the main results found in the literature. It was observed that the use of these substances in seminal cryopreservation in fish promoted improvements in the rates of sperm motility, velocities and integrity of the plasma membrane. Such improvements were observed in an interspecific manner. Therefore, further studies are needed in order to verify the effect of AFPs on fertilization capacity, seeking the best option for supplementing the medium.(AU)