Efficacy and non-toxicity of ciclopirox olamine-loaded liposomes against Cryptococcus neoformans clinical isolates.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and non-toxicity of ciclopirox olamine-loaded liposomes against Cryptococcus neoformans clinical isolates. Initially, 24-1 fractional experimental design was carried out to obtain an optimized formulation of liposomes containing CPO (CPO-LipoC), which were then used to prepare stealth liposomes (CPO-LipoS). Liposomal formulations were characterized by their mean size diameter, polydispersity index (PDI), and drug encapsulation efficiency (EE%). Immunosuppressed mice were exposed to CPO-LipoS at 0.5 mg/kg/day for 14 days to verify possible histopathological alterations in the liver and kidneys. Immunosuppressed mice infected with C. neoformans were treated with CPO-LipoS at 0.5 mg/kg/day for 14 days to quantify the fungal burden in spleen, liver, lungs, and brain. CPO-LipoS presented a mean size diameter, PDI, and EE% of 101.4 ± 0.7 nm, 0.307, and 96.4 ± 0.9%, respectively. CPO-LipoS was non-toxic for the liver and kidneys of immunosuppressed mice. At the survival curve, all infected animals submitted to treatment with CPO-LipoS survived until the end of the experiment. Treatment with CPO-LipoS reduced C. neoformans cells in the spleen (59.3 ± 3.4%), liver (75.0 ± 3.6%), lungs (75.7 ± 6.7%), and brain (54.2 ± 3.2%). CPO-LipoS exhibit antifungal activity against C. neoformans, and the encapsulation of CPO into stealth liposomes allows its use as a systemic drug for treating cryptococcosis.

Importance of anatomopathological analysis and histopathological examination for the diagnosis of suspected cases of syphilitic aneurysm / Importância da análise anatomopatológica e histopatológica para o diagnóstico de casos suspeitos de aneurisma sifilítico

Introduction: syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by mycobacterium Treponema pallidum in which in its tertiary stage can lead to an aortic syphilitic aneurysm. Currently, such cases are rare because of the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy. Objective: we aimed to carry out an anatomopathological analysis and histopathological examination of three cases potentially suspicious of aortic syphilitic aneurysm on human corpses. Methods: It was a descriptive study which 03 anatomic specimens of aortas from cadavers with ages ranging from 50 to 91 years obtained in Service checklist of deaths during the period from 2014 to 2015. We performed an anatomopathological and histopathological analysis with the use of special dyes. Results: through the macroscopic evaluation it was observed in all cases a dilation corresponding to arch of aorta where the intima obtained an aspect of longitudinal striation, classic of syphilitic process. As for histopathological study on the tissues treatment with the staining batteries, it was demonstrated the presence of the dissecting hematoma in all cases, besides necrosis and absence characteristic of the inflammatory process. Conclusion: the anatomopathological and histopathological study are diagnostic tools which have specific characteristics and are directed to assist in preliminary diagnosis of suspected cases of aortic syphilitic aneurysm in necropsies.

Introdução: a sífilis é uma doença sexualmente transmissível causada pela micobactéria Treponema pallidum em que, em seu estágio terciário, pode levar à um aneurisma aórtico sifilítico. Atualmente, esses casos são raros devido à eficácia da terapia com antibióticos. Objetivo: objetivou-se realizar uma análise anatomopatológica e exame histopatológico de três casos potencialmente suspeitos de aneurisma sifilítico aórtico em cadáveres humanos. Métodos: Estudo descritivo que avaliou 03 amostras anatômicas de aortas oriundas de cadáveres com idades variando de 50 a 91 anos, obtidas no Verificação de Serviço de óbitos no período de 2014 a 2015. Realizamos uma análise anatomopatológica e histopatológica com o uso de corantes especiais. Resultados: através da avaliação macroscópica observou-se em todos os casos uma dilatação correspondente ao arco de aorta onde a íntima obteve um aspecto de estriado longitudinal, clássico do processo sifilítico. Quanto ao estudo histopatológico dos tecidos tratados com as baterias de coloração, foi demonstrada a presença do hematoma dissecante em todos os casos, além da necrose e ausência característica do processo inflamatório. Conclusão: o estudo anatomopatológico e histopatológico são ferramentas diagnósticas com características específicas e orientadas a auxiliar no diagnóstico preliminar de casos suspeitos de aneurisma sifilítico aórtico em necropsias.

Immunocytochemical study of TOP2A and Ki-67 in cervical smears from women under routine gynecological care.

BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer is one of the most common female cancers and is caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Viral infection leads to cell cycle deregulation by inactivating p53 and retinoblastoma protein by viral oncoproteins E6 and E7, respectively. Then, nuclear proteins such as DNA topoisomerase type IIa (TOP2A) and Ki-67 show increased expression because of increased cell division. These molecules are used as biomarkers for immunohistochemistry analysis of cervical tissue. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, we recruited 110 women receiving regular gynecological surveillance at public health centers in Olinda - PE, Brazil. Cervicovaginal cells were collected to determine the presence of cytological abnormalities and HPV infection. Pap smear slides were used to evaluate the expression of TOP2A and Ki-67 using immunocytochemistry techniques. RESULTS: Of the 110 women, 75.4 % showed HPV-DNA(+) infection (83/110) and 29.1 % showed cellular abnormalities (32/110). Two atypical cells of undetermined significance, one low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, and one high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion samples showed no HPV-DNA. TOP2A was positive in 71.9 % of samples, while Ki-67 was positive in 81.2 %. Immunocytochemistry results were positive in 4 of 5 atypical cells of undetermined significance samples. In HPV-DNA(+) samples with cytological abnormalities, immunocytochemistry results were positive 96.4 % of samples (p < 0.0001; odds ratio = 28.0). Among the samples infected with HR-HPV, TOP2A(+) was effective in 71 % samples, while and Ki-67(+) was 77.4 %. Ki-67 and TOP2A were positive for all samples infected with HPV6, HPV11, and HPV18. Ki-67 was also positive for all HPV16 samples, except for one negative sample in cytopathology analysis. CONCLUSIONS: TOP2A and Ki-67 antibodies may be used in combination for cervical cancer screening in immunocytochemistry assays.

A comparative study of the areas of osteochondral defects produced in femoral condyles of rabbits treated with sugar cane biopolymer gel.

PURPOSE: To assess the histological response of damaged osteochondral tissue in the femoral condyles of rabbits after repairing the wounds with sugar cane biopolymer gel - compared to the control group. METHODS: The study investigated 16 New Zealand rabbits, at 90, 120 and 180 days after surgery. In all the animals, a lesion of 3.2 mm in diameter and 4 mm deep was induced in each right and left femoral condyle. Each animal has provided both knees, divided into medial and lateral condyle, resulting in 64 samples. 32 knees were divided into two groups: Right knee, medial and lateral condyles, filled with biopolymer; Left knee, medial and lateral condyles, unfilled. The anatomical specimens were removed, and subjected to histological techniques and morphometric and statistical analysis. RESULTS: In all the periods of the group under study an inflammatory reaction mediated by giant cells and mononuclear cells was found, while in the control group there was early healing produced by fibroblasts and few mononuclear cells with statistical significance between groups. CONCLUSION: The biopolymer gel caused an inflammatory reaction mediated by giant cells and mononuclear cells while the control group there was cicatrization mediated by fibroblasts.

A comparative study of the areas of osteochondral defects produced in femoral condyles of rabbits treated with sugar cane biopolymer gel

PURPOSE: To assess the histological response of damaged osteochondral tissue in the femoral condyles of rabbits after repairing the wounds with sugar cane biopolymer gel - compared to the control group. METHODS: The study investigated 16 New Zealand rabbits, at 90, 120 and 180 days after surgery. In all the animals, a lesion of 3.2 mm in diameter and 4 mm deep was induced in each right and left femoral condyle. Each animal has provided both knees, divided into medial and lateral condyle, resulting in 64 samples. 32 knees were divided into two groups: Right knee, medial and lateral condyles, filled with biopolymer; Left knee, medial and lateral condyles, unfilled. The anatomical specimens were removed, and subjected to histological techniques and morphometric and statistical analysis. RESULTS: In all the periods of the group under study an inflammatory reaction mediated by giant cells and mononuclear cells was found, while in the control group there was early healing produced by fibroblasts and few mononuclear cells with statistical significance between groups. CONCLUSION: The biopolymer gel caused an inflammatory reaction mediated by giant cells and mononuclear cells while the control group there was cicatrization mediated by fibroblasts.

Blood pressure, heart rate and its autonomic modulation in malnourished rats at different ages / Pressão arterial, frequência cardíaca e sua modulação autonômica em ratos malnutridos de diferentes idades

Malnutrition is responsible for a number of alterations that occur in the organism, including alterations in the cardiovascular system. We hypothesize that long periods of malnutrition occurring after weaning may also be responsible for alterations in the cardiovascular system. Wistar rats were separated into the two following experimental groups: a labina® diet-fed control group (CG) and a malnourished group (MG), fed a multi- deficient diet. Results showed that the mg presented significantly lower body weight (p < 0.001) in rats of all ages, higher heart rate (HR) (p < 0.05) when rats were 3, 4 and 5 months old and lower HR in rats from 6 to 9 months of age, in relation to the CG. Spectral analysis showed a significant increase in the low frequencies (LF) components in the MG compared to the CG from the third month onwards (p < 0.05), showing evidence of sympathetic predominance greater cardiac autonomic balance in the MG versus that of CG indicated that, although aging influences autonomic behavior, it may also be altered by nutrition. Morphologically, an increase in the ventricle weight/body weight ratio was seen in the MG. These results show that the hearts of rats in the MG were not spared from malnutrition age-related detrimental cardiac effects associated with malnutrition.

A má nutrição é responsável por várias alterações que ocorrem no organismo, incluindo o sistema cardiovascular. Nossa hipótese é que longos períodos de desnutrição podem ser responsáveis por alterações no cardiovasculares. Ratos wistar foram separados em dois grupos experimentais: grupo controle (GC), alimentados com dieta labina® e um grupo malnutrido (GM), alimentados com dieta multideficiente. Resultados mostraram que GM apresentou menor peso corporal (p < 0,001) em todas as idades, maior frequência cardíaca (FC) (p < 0,05) nos ratos de três, quatro e cinco meses de idade e menor FC em ratos de seis a nove meses de idade, em relação ao GC. A análise espectral mostrou aumento nos componentes de baixas frequências (BF) no GM em relação ao GC a partir do terceiro mês (p < 0,05), mostrando evidências de predominância do simpático. Maior balanço autonômico cardíaco no GM em relação ao GC indicou que, embora o envelhecimento influencie o comportamento autonômico, pode também ser alterado pela nutrição. Morfologicamente, o aumento da proporção de peso de ventrículos/peso corporal do ventrículo foi visto no GM. Esses resultados mostram que os corações do GM não foram poupados pela má nutrição associada com a idade. Em detrimento dos efeitos cardíacos associados com a má nutrição.

Evaluating the effectiveness of gel formulation of irradiated seed lectin Cratylia mollis during bone repair in rats.

CONTEXT: Regeneration corresponds to the replacement of damaged cells with ones that have the same morphology and function. For experimental evaluation of materials that may favor the process of bone healing, defects are created with dimensions that prevent spontaneous regeneration. For the development and use of new drugs, it is necessary to study its effects in vitro, which depends on the formulation, concentration, and rate of irradiation in vivo and the route and frequency of administration; thus, it is possible to characterize the physiological and molecular mechanisms involved in the response and cellular effects. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to assess the effect of Cramoll-1,4 on the process of bone repair. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A formulation of biopharmaceutical lectin Cramoll-1,4 at a concentration of 300 mg/100 mL was applied in a single application via gamma radiation and its effect on the process of bone repair in rats was assessed. RESULTS: Histologically, it was observed that the bone defect is coated by loose connective tissue rich in fibroblasts, providing a range similar to the thick bone original and competing with site of new bone formation. This prevented direct contact between the formulation and experimental bone tissue, as, despite its proven effectiveness in experiments on the repair of skin lesions, the formulation used did not promote bone stimulation that would have promoted the tissue repair process. CONCLUSION: Because of the direct interference of loose tissue repair that prevented direct contact of the implant with the bone interface, the formulation did not promote bone stimulation.

The percentage of affected fragments in needle biopsy in the assessment of pathological staging of prostate cancer / O percentual de fragmentos acometidos na biópsia de agulha na avaliação do estadiamento patológico do câncer da próstata

INTRODUCTION: Prostate cancer has high prevalence and mortality among men. Some of the findings on prostate biopsy may be related to the prognosis of the disease. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between the percentage of fragments affected by cancer in the prostate biopsy and the pathological staging in the surgical specimen. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Selected 159 patients underwent radical prostatectomy (RP) between 2003 and 2009. Data was collected on age, digital rectal exam, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), Gleason score, number of biopsy fragments, number of fragments affected by tumor, and tumor extension in the surgical specimen. Statistical analysis with Student's t-test, chi-squared test, and multiple logistic regression evaluated the association of percentage of affected fragments (PAF) with tumor extension and its predictive value. RESULTS: The patients mean age and PSA were respectively 64 years and 8.5 ng/ml. Histopathologic evaluation of surgical specimens revealed 20.8% of patients with extraprostatic disease, 8.2% with seminal vesicle invasion and 35.8% with positive margins. We found that patients with extraprostatic disease, positive surgical margins, and seminal vesicle invasion had a higher mean PAF. PAF was divided into three groups: less than 34%, 34% to 50%, and greater than 50%, and the higher the PFA, the larger the increase in pathological changes. CONCLUSION: PAF in biopsy is a simple and practical parameter, which should be used as a predictor of pathological stage in RP specimen.

INTRODUÇÃO: O câncer de próstata é uma das neoplasias de maior prevalência e mortalidade entre os homens. Alguns dos achados na biópsia prostática podem estar relacionados com o prognóstico da doença. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a associação do percentual de fragmentos acometidos (PFA) por câncer na biópsia prostática com estadiamento patológico na peça cirúrgica. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo de 159 pacientes submetidos à prostatectomia radical (PR) entre 2003 e 2009. Foram coletados dados sobre idade, exame retal digital, antígeno prostático específico (PSA), escore de Gleason, número de fragmentos da biópsia, número de fragmentos acometidos e extensão tumoral na peça operatória. A análise estatística com os testes t de Student, qui-quadrado e regressão logística múltipla avaliou a associação do PFA com a extensão tumoral e o seu valor preditivo. RESULTADOS: A média de idade e PSA dos pacientes foram, respectivamente, de 64 anos e 8,5 ng/ml. A avaliação histopatológica revelou 20,8% de pacientes com doença extraprostática; 8,2% com invasão das vesículas seminais e 35,8% com margens comprometidas. Encontramos, nos pacientes com doença extraprostática, margens cirúrgicas comprometidas e invasão das vesículas seminais, uma média do PFA significativamente superior. O PFA foi estratificado em três grupos: menor que 34%; 34% a 50% e maior que 50%; quanto maior o PFA, maior o aumento nas alterações patológicas. CONCLUSÃO: O PFA na biópsia é parâmetro simples e prático que pode ser utilizado como preditor da extensão tumoral no espécime da prostatectomia radical.

Expressão do receptor do fator de crescimento vascular endotelial no câncer de colo uterino: uma revisão sistemática / Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor expression in cervix cancer: a systematic review

Objetivo: identificar através da revisão sistemática a expressão do receptor do fator de crescimento vascular endotelial (VEGF) nos diferentes graus de expressão e sua correlação com o prognóstico em portadores de câncer de colo uterino. Método: revisão sistemática de pesquisa nas bases de dados: PubMed, MedLine Old, MedLine, LILACS, SciELO e Science Direct. Resultados: foram encontrados 107 publicações, sendo 9 na PubMed, 80 na MedLine, 2 na MedLine Old, 16 na Science Direct e nenhuma no LILACS e SciELO. Apenas 13 artigos foram selecionados baseados nos critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Conclusão: apesar da escassez de estudos envolvendo a expressão do VEGF no câncer de colo uterino, há a possibilidade de correlacionar a expressão com pior prognóstico

Objective: to identify through a systematic review the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor in different degrees of expression and its correlation with prognosis in patients with cervix cancer. Method: the systematic review was realized through research on databases: PubMed, MedLine Old, MedLine, LILACS, SciELO and Science Direct. Results: 107 publications were found, which 9 in PubMed, 80 in Medline, 2 in Old Medline, 16 in Science Direct and none in LILACS and SciELO. Only 13 articles were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Conclusion: despite the scarcity of studies involving the expression of VEGF in cervical cancer, it is possible to correlate the expression with worse prognosis.

The incorporation of Brazilian propolis into collagen-based dressing films improves dermal burn healing.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Hydroalcoholic solutions of propolis, a resinous product produced by bees, have been currently employed in improving the cicatricial repair. Biological activity of propolis might be related to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and immunomudalatory properties. AIM OF THIS STUDY: Investigate the suitability of the collagen-based films containing hydroalcoholic extracts of two different varieties of Brazilian propolis (green and red ones) on the dermal burn healing in rodent model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The hydroalcoholic extracts of red propolis (RP) or Green propolis (GP) were incorporated into collagen-based dressing films (COL). Burn wounds were performed in the dorsum of Wistar rats and dressing with COL, COL+GPa (0.5%), COL+GPb (1,0%) or COL+RP (0.5%). A control group (CTR) was performed keeping the wound undressed. The histological analyses were carried out after 3, 7, 14, 21 and 30 days for histological assessment of the inflammatory response, epithelization rates (ER), myofibroblastic count (MC) and collagenization pattern. RESULTS: GPa, GPb and RP provided significant decrease of the inflammatory severity, improved the ER in GPa in 7 (p=0.000), 14 (p=0.000), 21 (p=0.005) and 30 days (p=0.015), and induced earlier replacement of type-III for type-I collagen (p<0.05) than COL and CTR. In all the groups, the MC increased progressively from 3 to 14 days, and then started to decrease slowly until 21 days. Although no significant difference was observed among the groups in 3, 7 and 30 days, the MC was significantly increased in RP in 14 (p=0.0001) and 21 days (p=0.04), as well as grosser interlacement of the collagen bundles compared with the other groups. CONCLUSION: The incorporation of hydroalcoholic extracts of Brazilian propolis improved the biological events associated to burn healing without toxic effects, but the red variety provided the best results. Therefore, these collagen-based containing natural apicultural products films may be considered a promising new dressing for wound occlusion and tissue repairing.

Use of a gel biopolymer for the treatment of eviscerated eyes: experimental model in rabbits.

PURPOSE: To evaluate histologically the integration process of cellulose gel produced by Zoogloea sp when implanted into rabbits' eviscerated eyes. METHODS: This experimental study employed 36 eyes of 18 rabbits subjected to evisceration of their right eyes. The sclerocorneal bag was sutured and filled with biopolymer from sugar cane in the gel state. All animals were clinically examined by biomicroscopy until the day of their sacrifice which occurred on the 7th, 30th, 60th, 90th, 120th, or 240th day. The eyeballs obtained, including the left eyes considered controls were sent for histopathological study by optical macroscopy and microscopy. Tissue staining techniques used included hematoxylin-eosin, Masson trichrome (with aniline), Gomori trichrome, Van Gienson, Picrosirius red, and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS). RESULTS: No clinical signs of infection, allergy, toxicity, or extrusion were observed throughout the experiment. The corneas were relatively preserved. Macroscopic examination revealed a decrease of ~ 8% in the volume of the bulbs implanted with the biopolymer. After cutting, the sclerocorneal bag was solid, compact, elastic, and resistant to traction, with a smooth and whitish surface, and showed no signs of necrosis or liquefaction. The episcleral tissues were somewhat hypertrophied. The histological preparations studied in different colors revealed an initial lymphoplasmacytic infiltration, replaced by a fibroblastic response and proliferation of histiocytes, along with formation of giant cells. Few polymorphonuclearneutrophils and eosinophils were also found. Neovascularization and collagen deposition were present in all animals starting from day 30; although on the 240th day of the experiment the chronic inflammatory response, neovascularization and collagen deposition had not yet reached the center of the implant. CONCLUSION: In this model, the cellulose gel produced by Zoogloea sp proved to be biocompatible and integrated into the orbits. Morphometric, immunohistochemical and biodegradability studies should be performed in the future.

O papel das metaloproteinases no desenvolvimento do aneurisma de aorta / The role of matrix metalloproteinases in the development of aortic aneurysm

Objetivo: realizou-se uma revisão de literatura enfatizando o papel das metaloproteinases nodesenvolvimento do aneurisma de aorta. Método: realizado um levantamento da literatura nasprincipais bases de dados científicos: Medline, Pubmed, Scienc direct, utilizando os seguintesunitermos: metaloproteinases, aorta, aneurisma de aorta. Conclusão: as metaloproteinasesparticipam de importantes mecanismos fisiológicos, contudo, os artigos sugerem que o aumentoda expressão de alguns tipos de metaloproteinases promovem um desencadeamento de processosque induzem a lesão e dano no tecido aórtico, o que contribui para o desenvolvimento doaneurisma

Objective: we conducted a literature review emphasizing the role of matrix metalloproteinasesin the development of aortic aneurysm. Method: it was a structured survey of the literature onmajor scientific databases: Medline, Pubmed, Science Direct, using the following keywords:Metalloproteinases, aorta, aortic aneurysm. Conclusion: the matrix metalloproteinasesparticipate in important physiological mechanisms, however, the papers suggest that increasedexpression of some types of metalloproteinases promote a trigger processes that lead to injuryand damage to the aortic tissue, which contributes to the development of the aneurysm.

Use of a gel biopolymer for the treatment of eviscerated eyes: experimental model in rabbits / Uso de um biopolímero na forma gel para o tratamento de olhos eviscerados: modelo experimental em coelhos

PURPOSE: To evaluate histologically the integration process of cellulose gel produced by Zoogloea sp when implanted into rabbits' eviscerated eyes. METHODS: This experimental study employed 36 eyes of 18 rabbits subjected to evisceration of their right eyes. The sclerocorneal bag was sutured and filled with biopolymer from sugar cane in the gel state. All animals were clinically examined by biomicroscopy until the day of their sacrifice which occurred on the 7th, 30th, 60th, 90th, 120th, or 240th day. The eyeballs obtained, including the left eyes considered controls were sent for histopathological study by optical macroscopy and microscopy. Tissue staining techniques used included hematoxylin-eosin, Masson trichrome (with aniline), Gomori trichrome, Van Gienson, Picrosirius red, and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS). RESULTS: No clinical signs of infection, allergy, toxicity, or extrusion were observed throughout the experiment. The corneas were relatively preserved. Macroscopic examination revealed a decrease of ~ 8% in the volume of the bulbs implanted with the biopolymer. After cutting, the sclerocorneal bag was solid, compact, elastic, and resistant to traction, with a smooth and whitish surface, and showed no signs of necrosis or liquefaction. The episcleral tissues were somewhat hypertrophied. The histological preparations studied in different colors revealed an initial lymphoplasmacytic infiltration, replaced by a fibroblastic response and proliferation of histiocytes, along with formation of giant cells. Few polymorphonuclearneutrophils and eosinophils were also found. Neovascularization and collagen deposition were present in all animals starting from day 30; although on the 240th day of the experiment the chronic inflammatory response, neovascularization and collagen deposition had not yet reached the center of the implant. CONCLUSION: In this model, the cellulose gel produced by Zoogloea sp proved to be biocompatible and integrated into the orbits. Morphometric, immunohistochemical and biodegradability studies should be performed in the future.

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar histologicamente o processo de integração do gel da celulose produzida pela Zoogloe asp implantado em olhos eviscerados de coelhos. MÉTODOS: Estudo experimental utilizando 36 olhos de 18 coelhos. Todos eles tiveram seus olhos direitos eviscerados. A bolsa escleral foi suturada e preenchida com biopolimero da cana de açúcar, no estado gel. Todos os animais foram examinados clinicamente, sob biomicroscopia, até o dia de seus sacrifícios e enucleações que aconteceram no 7º, 30º, 60º,90º,120º e 240º dia. Os bulbos obtidos, inclusive os esquerdos, considerados controles, foram encaminhados para estudo histopatológicos de macroscopia e microscopia óptica. As colorações pela hematoxilina-eosina, tricômio de Masson (com anilina), tricômio de Gomori, Van Gienson e Picrosirius red e ácido periódico de Schiff (PAS) foram usadas. RESULTADOS: Durante o experimento não foram observados sinais clínicos de infecção, alergias, intoxicação ou extrusão. As córneas apresentavam-se relativamente preservadas. Exame macroscópico revelou uma diminuição de aproximadamente 8% no volume dos bulbos nos quais o biopolímero foi implantado. O corte do saco escleral mostrou um conteúdo sólido, compacto, elástico, resistente à tração, com superfície lisa e brancacenta. Não foram observados sinais de necrose, ou liquefação. O tecido epiescleral estava algo hipertrofiado. As preparações histológicas estudadas, nas diversas colorações, revelaram uma infiltração linfomonomorfonuclear inicial, substituída posteriormente por uma resposta fibroblástica e proliferação de histiócitos com formação de células multinucleadas gigantes. Foram também encontrados poucos polimorfonucleares neutrófilos e eosinófilos. A partir do 30º dia houve proliferação vascular e deposição de calágeno em todos os espécimes estudados, embora, no 240º dia do experimento, a resposta inflamatória crônica, a neovascularização e a deposição do colágeno não tinham ainda atingido o centro do implante. CONCLUSÃO: Neste modelo, o gel da celulose produzido pela Zoogloea sp, mostrou-se biocompatível e integrado às órbitas. Estudos morfométrico, imuno-histoquímico e de biodegradabilidade devem ser realizados futuramente.

Immunohistopathological changes in murine Schistosomiasis mansoni under the influence of N-acetyl-L-cysteine.

The main pathology associated with Schistosomiasis mansoni is granulomatous inflammation that may develop into hepatosplenic disease with fibrosis and hepatoesplenomegaly. It is known that N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) reduces tissue damage in chronic liver diseases owing to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and detoxifying properties. In this study, we investigated the imunohistopathological changes in murine schistosomiasis mansoni under the influence of NAC, in combination with Praziquantel (PZQ) or not. Three groups of mice were formed to evaluate the effects of NAC during infection in the acute, intermediate, and chronic phases. Each group was further subdivided into four subgroups: NAC, PZQ, NAC + PZQ and control (without treatment). Oral administration of NAC (200 mg/kg/day) was carried out on the first day after infection for the acute phase and on the 45th for the intermediate and chronic phases for 59 and 45, 75 days, respectively. PZQ (100 mg/kg/day), was given orally by gavage from the 45th to 49th day after infection. Histopathological analysis of liver tissue provided evidence that combined NAC + PZQ treatment reduced the development of granulomas observed in the chronic phase. Animals treated with NAC and/or PZQ showed a reduction in the size of granulomas and all those treated with NAC exhibited a lower degree of fibrosis. In all groups, NAC decreased the synthesis of interferon-γ and nitric oxide, while increasing the levels of interleukin-10, but it did not influence the production of interleukin-4. On the whole, NAC treatment induced an immunomodulatory effect and reduced liver damage during the granulomatous inflammation in S. mansoni-infected mice.

Development of animal model for studying deep second-degree thermal burns.

Thermal lesions were produced in 12 male Wistar rats, positioning a massive aluminum bar 10 mm in diameter (51 g), preheated to 99°C ± 2°C/10 min. on the back of each animal for 15 sec. After 7, 14, 21, and 28 days, animals were euthanized. The edema intensity was mild, with no bubble and formation of a thick and dry crust from the 3rd day. The percentage of tissue shrinkage at 28 days was 66.67 ± 1.66%. There was no sign of infection, bleeding, or secretion. Within 28 days reepithelialization was incomplete, with fibroblastic proliferation and moderate fibrosis and presence of modeled dense collagen fibers. It is concluded that the model established is applicable in obtaining deep second-degree thermal burns in order to evaluate the healing action of therapeutic agents of topical use.

Topical application effect of the isolectin hydrogel (Cramoll 1,4) on second-degree burns: experimental model.

This study aimed at evaluating the use of hydrogel isolectin in the treatment of second-degree burns. Twenty male rats were randomly divided into two groups (G1 = treatment with hydrogel containing 100 µg/mL Cramoll 1,4 and G2 = Control, hydrogel). After 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days, animals were euthanized. On the 7th day, G1 showed intense exudates, necrosis and edema. On the 14th day, G1 showed tissue reepithelialization and moderate autolysis. On the 21st day, G1 showed intense fibroblastic proliferation, presence of dense collagen, and moderate fibrosis. On the 28th day, G1 showed complete tissue epithelialization. On the 35th day, G1 showed modeled dense collagen. The significant wound contraction was initiated from day, 14 in the G1. There were no significant differences in biochemical and hematological parameters analyzed. These results extend the potential of therapeutic applications for Cramoll 1,4 in the treatment of thermal burns.

Perfil imunoistoquímico das proteínas p53 e Ki67 em pacientes com retocolite ulcerativa inespecífica / Imunohistochemical profile of p53 and Ki67 from patients with unspecific ulcerative colitis

Objetivos: O presente estudo avaliou, através da imunohistoquímica e estudo histopatológico, as principais alterações na mucosa intestinal de pacientes acometidos pela retocolite ulcerativa crônica idiopática (RCUI) apenas tratada clinicamente (n=30) ou subseqüentemente tratada com Proctocolectomia total e construção de bolsa ileal (n=30). Métodos: Desta forma, foram selecionados fragmentos de tecido intestinal submetidos à imunomarcação para as proteínas p53 e Ki67 e coloração por hematoxilina-eosina para análise histopatológica comparativa. Resultados: Os resultados obtidos indicam importantes diferenças no perfil inflamatório e presença de áreas de erosão/desgate da mucosa colônica de ambos os grupos estudados. Quanto a imunoexpressão, observou-se uma maior reatividade de padrão nuclear principalmente nos tecidos inflamados dos pacientes com RCUI tratados clinicamente. Conclusões: Estes resultados sugerem que, de acordo com o perfil histopatológico e imunohistoquímico, a mucosa colônica de pacientes submetidos ao tratamento cirúrgico apresenta menos alterações que os pacientes tratados clinicamente. Assim, os dados sugerem que estes métodos podem auxiliar no diagnóstico e monitoramento de pacientes sob diferentes rotinas terapêuticas.

Objectives: The present study evaluated, trough immunohistochemistry and histopatologic analysis, the main alterations in intestinal mucous from patients with unspecific ulcerative colitis (IUC) clinically (n=30) or surgically treated (n=30) with ileal J-pouch and permanent ileostomy. Methods: Thus, tissue slices from intestinal mucous were submitted to imunostains for p53 and Ki67 proteins, and Haematoxilin-eosin staining for comparative histopathological evaluation. Results: The results indicated important differences in inflammatory profile and erosion/necrosis sites on the both investigated groups. Related to imunoexpression was observed a higher reactivity with nuclear pattern, mainly in inflammatory tissues from IUC patients clinically treated. Conclusions: Those results showed that, according to histopathological and imunohistochemical parameters, the colonic mucous from IUC patients submitted to surgical treatment exhibited less alterations than IUC patients clinically treated. The data suggest that those methods could be helpful to diagnosis and assist the accompaniment of patients under different therapeutic routines.

Correlação entre a expressão da proteína p16 INK4a e o grau de neoplasia intraepitelial anal: uma revisão sistemática / Correlation between expression of p 16 INK4A protein and degree of anal intraepithelial neoplasia (ain): a systematic review

Objetivo: identificar pela revisão sistemática a expressão da proteína p16INK4a nos diferentes graus de neoplasias intraepiteliaisanais (NIA). Método: revisão sistemática de pesquisa nas bases de dados: PubMed, MedLine Old, MedLine,LILACS, SciELO e Science Direct. Foram excluídos artigos de revisão e que não correlacionavam a expressão dap16INK4a com o grau de NIA. Resultados: foram encontrados 483 artigos, dos quais 223 na PubMed, 151 na Medline,34 na Medline Old, 3 no Lilacs e 72 na Science Direct. Apenas cinco artigos foram selecionados baseados no critériode inclusão e exclusão. Conclusão: a proteína p16INK4a utilizada como marcador mostra-se eficaz para o diagnóstico deNIA, principalmente em lesões anais de alto grau.

Objective: to identify through a systematic review the expression of p16INK4a protein in different degrees of analintraepithelial neoplasia (AIN). Method: the review was realized through research on databases PubMed, MedLineOld, MedLine, LILACS, SciELO e Science Direct. Review articles and the ones without correlation between theexpression the p16INK4a with the level of AIN were excluded. Results: it were found 483 articles, which 223 inPubMed, 151 in Medline, 34 in Medline Old, 3 in Lilacs and 72 in Science Direct. Only five articles were selectedbased on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Conclusion: the p16INK4a protein used as a marker has shown to be effectivefor diagnostic of AIN, mainly in high-grade anal lesions.

Analysis of fetal and placental development in rats after administration of hydroalcoholic extract from the root of Petiveria alliacea L. (Phytolaccaceae) / Análisis del desarrollo fetal y placenta en ratas después de la administración de extracto hidroalcohólico de la raíz de Petiveria alliacea L. (Phytolaccaceae)

We investigated the effect of hydroalcoholic extract the Petiveria alliacea root on fetal and placental development female rats pregnancy. Thirty female rats were mated and divided in groups: I - rats treated with placebo and sacrificed on the 7th day; II - rats treated with hydroalcoholic extract and sacrificed on the 7th day; III - rats treated with placebo and sacrificed on the 14th day; IV - rats treated with hydroalcoholic extract and sacrificed on the 14th day; V - rats treated with placebo for analysis of the offspring; VI - rats treated with hydroalcoholic extract for analysis of the offspring. The extract was administered by gavage in the dosage of 18mg/kg body wt., in 5th day of pregnancy. The implantation sites and placenta were fixed in Bouin and processed for the embedding in paraffin. The offspring were weighed, measured and counted. The hydroalcoholic extract of the root of the P. alliacea causes significant reduction in the number of implantation sites, but do not cause histological alterations in these sites and placenta. No alterations in the number, length and weight have been observed in offspring. Our results suggest that the hydroalcoholic extract from the P. alliacea in the dosage of 18mg/kg body wt., administered to female rats, on the 5th day of pregnancy, only cause a retard in the implantation process.

Se investigaron los efectos de la extracto hidroalcohólico de la raíz Petiveria alliacea sobre el desarrollo fetal y placentario en ratas preñadas. Treinta ratas hembras fueron criadas y divididas en grupos: I- Ratas tratadas con placebo y sacrificado en el día 7; II- Ratas tratadas con el extracto hidroalcohólico y sacrificadas en el día 7; III- ratas tratadas con placebo y sacrificado el día 14; IV- ratas tratadas con el extracto hidroalcohólico y sacrificaron el día 14; V- ratas tratadas con placebo para el análisis de las crías; VI- ratas tratadas con el extracto hidroalcohólico para el análisis de las crías. El extracto se administró por sonda en dosis de 18mg/kg de peso corporal, en el 5to día de preñez. Los sítios de implantación y la placenta se fijaron en Bouin y se procesaron para la inclusión en parafina. Las crías fueron pesadas, medidas y contadas. El extracto hidroalcohólico de la raíz de P. alliacea provocó una reducción significativa en el número de sitios de implantación, pero no causaron alteraciones histológicas en estos sitios y la placenta. No se observaron alteraciones en el número, longitud y peso de las crías. Nuestros resultados sugieren que el extracto hidroalcohólico de P. alliacea en la dosis de 18mg/kg de peso corporal, administrado a ratas hembras en el 5to día de preñez, sólo causó retardo en el proceso de implantación.

Immobilization of anti-galectin-3 onto polysiloxane-polyvinyl alcohol disks for tumor prostatic diseases diagnosis.

This work aimed to immobilize the antibody anti-galectin-3 onto polysiloxane-polyvinyl alcohol (POS-PVA) support, to evaluate its capacity to capture the serum antigen galectin-3 and to quantify by ELISA the antigen levels in sera from patients with prostatic adenocarcinoma (PA) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and healthy individuals. Also, for comparative effect, the galectin-3 expression in the prostate tissue through immunohistochemistry was evaluated. The optical density (galectin-3 level) values established for the sera from PA and BPH patients were lower compared with those found for the healthy individuals. Galectin-3 immunohistochemically showed a significant increase and reduction of the cytoplasmatic protein expression in BPH and PA, respectively, compared with the normal prostate. These results showed that POS-PVA disks could be used as solid phase to immobilize serum galectins and in immunoassays procedures for the correspondent IgG anti-galectins detection in human sera.