Abstract Objective: Given the high proliferative activity of germinal matrix and its direct correlation with hypoxemia, it is necessary to investigate the possible molecular regulation pathways, to understand the existing clinical relationship between the hypoxic-ischemic insult and the biomarkers NF-kB, AKT-3, Parkin, TRK-C and VEGFR-1. Methods: A hundred and eighteen germinal matrix samples of the central nervous system of patients who died in the first 28 days of life were submitted to histological and immunohistochemistry analysis to identify the tissue immunoexpression of those biomarkers related to asphyxia, prematurity, and death events within 24h. Results: A significantly increased tissue immunoexpression of NF-kB, AKT-3 and Parkin was observed in the germinal matrix of preterm infants. In addition, significantly decreased tissue immunoexpression of VEGFR-1 and NF-kB was observed in patients who experienced asphyxia followed by death within 24 hours. Conclusions: The results suggest a direct involvement between the hypoxic-ischemic insult and NF-kB and VEGFR-1 markers since a decreased immunoexpression of these biomarkers was observed in asphyxiated patients. Furthermore, it is suggested that there was not enough time for VEGFR-1 to be transcribed, translated and expressed on the surface of the plasma membrane. This temporality can be observed in the relationship between NF-kB expression and the survival time of individuals who died within 24 hours, suggesting that this factor is essential for the production of VEGFR-1 and, therefore, to carry out the necessary remodeling effect to neovascularize the affected region.

RESUMO Objetivo: Dada a alta atividade proliferativa da matriz germinativa e sua correlação direta com a hipoxemia, é necessário investigar as possíveis vias de regulação molecular para entender a relação clínica existente entre o insulto hipóxico-isquêmico e os biomarcadores NF-kB, AKT -3, Parkina, TRK-C e VEGFR-1. Métodos: Cento e dezoito amostras de matriz germinativa do sistema nervoso central de pacientes que faleceram nos primeiros 28 dias de vida foram submetidas a análise histológica e imuno-histoquímica para identificar a imunoexpressão tecidual desses biomarcadores relacionados a eventos de asfixia, prematuridade e óbito em 24 horas. Resultados: Observou-se uma imunoexpressão tecidual significativamente aumentada de NF-kB, AKT-3 e Parkin na matriz germinativa de prematuros. Além disso, constatou-se uma imunoexpressão tecidual significativamente diminuída de VEGFR-1 e de NF-kB em pacientes que apresentaram asfixia seguida de morte em 24 horas. Conclusões: Os resultados sugerem o envolvimento direto entre o insulto hipóxico-isquêmico e os marcadores NF-kB e VEGFR-1, visto que se observou uma imunoexpressão diminuída destes biomarcadores nos pacientes asfixiados. Além disso, sugere-se que não houve tempo suficiente para que o VEGFR-1 fosse transcrito, traduzido e expresso na superfície da membrana plasmática. Essa temporalidade pode ser observada na relação entre a expressão de NF-kB e o tempo de vida dos indivíduos que morreram em 24 horas, o que sugere que esse fator é essencial para a produção do VEGFR-1 e, portanto, para realizar o efeito remodelador necessário para neovascularizar a região afetada.

ABSTRACT Purpose To evaluate capsules formed by microtextured silicone implants with and without Parietex® mesh coverage histologically. Methods Sixty Wistar rats were divided in two groups (meshed and unmeshed). Each group was, then, divided into two subgroups for evaluation at 30 and 90 days. Capsules were analyzed based on hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and picrosirius staining. Results The number of fibroblasts, neutrophils and macrophages was similar among all subgroups. There was a higher lymphocyte reaction in the 30-day meshed group (p = 0.003). Giant cell reaction, granulation tissue and neoangiogenesis were similar among the subgroups. Synovial metaplasia was milder at 90-day in the unmeshed (p = 0.002) and meshed group (p < 0.001). Capsular thickness was significantly greater in the meshed samples (30-day p < 0.001 and 90-day p < 0.001). There was a similar amount of collagen types I and III in both groups. Conclusions The mesh-covered implants produced capsules similar to the microtextured ones when analyzing inflammatory variables. Synovial metaplasia was milder at 90 than at 30 days, and the capsular thickness was significantly greater in the meshed group. A similar amount of collagen types I and III was observed. Due to these characteristics, the mesh coverage did not seem to significantly affect the local inflammatory activity.

SUMMARY: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of stretching and therapeutic ultrasound (TUS) on desmin and laminin contents of rat muscle after contusion. Male Wistar rats (n = 35, 8-9 weeks of age, 271 ± 14g body weight) were divided into five groups: Control group (CG) (n= 03); Injured group (IG) (n= 8); Injured + ultrasound group (IUSG) (n= 8); Injured+stretching group (ISG) (n= 8); Injured +ultrasound + stretching group (IUSSG) (n= 8). The application of ultrasound started 72 hours after the contusion, using the 50 % pulsed mode, 0.5 W/cm2, 5 min, once a day, for five consecutive days. Passive manual stretching was started on the tenth day after injury, with four repetitions of 30 s each and 30 s rest between repetitions, once a day, five times per week, for a total of ten applications. After 22 days, the rats were euthanazied and the gastrocnemius of both limbs removed for desmin and laminin immunohistochemistry morphometric measurement. Analysis was conducted using ANOVA one way post-hoc Tukey to parametric data and Kruskall-Wallis for non-parametric data. The IUSSG animals showed a larger area of desmin than ISG (p<0.05). It was found a decrease in laminin comparing IUSG to IG. However, laminin area was higher in ISG than all groups (p<0.05). UST isolated or in combination with stretching influenced gastrocnemius regeneration in different manners. While stretching applied isolated enhanced gastrocnemius regeneration noticed by the increase in laminin area, in combination with TUS strengthened the muscle healing rising desmin area.

RESUMEN: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar los efectos del estiramiento y la ecografía en los contenidos de desmina y laminina del músculo de rata después de la lesión. Ratas Wistar macho (n = 35, 8-9 semanas de edad, 271 ± 14 g de peso corporal) se dividieron en cinco grupos: grupo de control (CG) (n = 03); Grupo lesionado (GL) (n = 8); Lesionado + grupo de ultrasonido (LGU) (n= 8); Lesionado + grupo de estiramiento (LGE) (n = 8); Lesionado + ultrasonido + grupo de estiramiento (LUGE) (n = 8). La aplicación de ultrasonido comenzó 72 horas después de la lesión, usando el modo pulsado al 50 %, 0,5W / cm2, 5 min, una vez al día, durante cinco días consecutivos. El estiramiento manual pasivo se inició el décimo día después de la lesión, con cuatro repeticiones de 30 seg cada una y 30 seg de descanso entre repeticiones, una vez al día, cinco veces por semana, para un total de diez aplicaciones. Las ratas fueron sacrificadas después de 22 días, y se extrajo el músculo gastrocnemio de ambos miembros para la medición morfométrica de desmina y laminina a través de inmunohistoquímica. El análisis se realizó utilizando ANOVA unidireccional Tukey post-hoc para datos paramétricos y Kruskall-Wallis para datos no paramétricos. Los animales LUGE mostraron un área mayor de desmina que LGE (p <0,05). Se encontró una disminución en la laminina comparando LGU con GL. Sin embargo, el área de laminina fue mayor en LGE que en todos los grupos (p <0,05). El tratamiento con ultrasonido aislado o en combinación con estiramiento influyó en la regeneración del músculo gastrocnemio de diferentes maneras. Si bien el estiramiento aplicado, en combinación con tratamiento de ultrasonido, fortaleció el área de desmina, la regeneración del músculo gastrocnemio mejoró por el aumento en el área de laminina aumentando la curación muscular.

Resumo Fundamento O modelo de hipertensão arterial pulmonar induzida por monocrotalina (MCT) é um dos mais reproduzidos atualmente, apresentando como limitação a ausência de lesões plexiformes, manifestações típicas da doença grave em humanos. Objetivo Avaliar a gravidade da arteriopatia pulmonar induzida por MCT por meio dos achados anatomopatológicos pulmonares e cardíacos, evolução clínica e sobrevida em 37 dias. Métodos Foram utilizados 50 ratos machos Wistar divididos em quatro grupos, sendo um controle (n = 10). Os três grupos restantes foram submetidos à inoculação de MCT (60 mg/kg i.p.) e ficaram sob o seu efeito por 15 (n = 10), 30 (n = 10) e 37 dias (n = 20). Ao final de cada período, os animais foram sacrificados, obtendo-se tecidos pulmonar e cardíaco para análise anatomopatológica e morfométrica. Empregou-se o teste Kruskal-Wallis, considerando nível de significância de 5%. Resultados Nos pulmões dos animais MCT foram constatadas lesões referentes à arteriopatia pulmonar, incluindo muscularização das arteríolas, hipertrofia da camada média e lesões neointimais concêntricas. Lesões complexas foram observadas nos grupos MCT, descritas como plexiforme e do “tipo” plexiforme (plexiform-like). A hipertrofia do ventrículo direito foi constatada pelo aumento da espessura e diâmetro dos cardiomiócitos e pelo aumento significativo da espessura da parede do ventrículo direito (p<0,0000). Conclusão O modelo foi capaz de gerar arteriopatia pulmonar moderada-grave associada à hipertrofia do ventrículo direito secundária, com sobrevida de 50% em 37 dias. De nosso conhecimento, este estudo foi o primeiro a constatar a presença de lesões vasculares complexas, semelhantes às observadas em pacientes com hipertensão arterial pulmonar grave, em modelo isolado de MCT. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(3):480-490)

Abstract Background The monocrotaline (MCT)-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension model is one of the most reproduced today, presenting as a limitation the absence of plexiform lesions, typical manifestations of the severe disease in humans. Objective To evaluate the severity of MCT-induced pulmonary arteriopathy by pathological findings of lung and heart tissue samples, clinical course and 37-day survival. Methods Fifty male Wistar rats were divided into one of the four groups – control (CG) (n = 10) and three intervention (MCT) groups. The MCT groups received intraperitoneal injection (60 mg/kg) of MCT and remained exposed to the substance for 15 days (G15, n = 10), 30 days (G30, n = 10) and 37 days (G37, n = 20). At the end of each period, the animals were sacrificed, and pulmonary and cardiac tissues were collected for anatomopathological and morphometric analysis. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used, considering a level of significance of 5%. Results In the lungs of MCT animals, lesions related to pulmonary arteriopathy were found, including muscularization of the arterioles, hypertrophy of the middle layer and concentric neointimal lesions. Complex lesions were observed in MCT groups, described as plexiform and plexiform-like lesions. Right ventricular hypertrophy was evidenced by increased thickness and diameter of the cardiomyocytes and a significant increase in the right ventricular wall thickness (p <0.0000). Conclusion The MCT model was able to generate moderate-severe pulmonary arteriopathy associated with secondary right ventricular hypertrophy. The 37-day survival rate was 50%. To our knowledge, this study was the first to note the presence of complex vascular lesions, similar to those observed in patients with severe pulmonary arterial hypertension, in an isolated MCT model. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(3):480-490)

OBJECTIVES: To determine the effects of three sessions of a passive stretching exercise protocol on the muscles of elderly female rats. METHODS: The effects of the stretching exercises on the soleus muscle were analyzed using immunohistochemistry [tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMP), the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and the gene expression levels using real-time PCR of the transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), collagen type 1 (COL1), and collagen type 3 (COL3)]. Fifteen 26-month-old female Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups, namely, Stretching (SG, n=8) and Control (CG, n=7). The passive mechanical stretching protocol consisted of a set of 4 1-minute repetitions, with 30 seconds between each repetition (total treatment of 4 minutes), three times a week for 1 week. RESULTS: Immunohistochemical analysis revealed an increase of 71.4% in the TNF-α (p=0.04) gene expression levels for the SG and a 58% decrease in the TGF-β1 gene expression levels (p=0.005) in the SG compared to that in the CG. No significant differences were observed between the groups for the immunostaining of TIMP-1 or the gene expression levels of COL1 and COL3. CONCLUSION: Three sessions of static stretching reduced the gene expression level of TGF-β1, which, owing to its anti-fibrotic role, might contribute to the remodeling of the intramuscular connective tissue of the aging muscle. In addition, immunostaining revealed that TNF-α levels increased in the aging muscle tissue in response to stretching, indicating its effect on stimulating extracellular matrix degradation. These outcomes have important clinical implications in reinforcing the use of stretching exercises in the elderly, considering that the aging muscle presents an infiltration of connective tissue.

RESUMO Introdução: O câncer da mama éa segunda causa de morte por câncer entre as mulheres em todo o mundo, e estuáis epidemiológicos podem auxiliar no entendimento dos seus mecanismos. Objetivos: Realizar um levantamento do número de casos dos carcinomas da mama diagnosticados em um período de seis anos. Método: Foi comparado com a literatura o perfil dos carcinomas da mama diagnosticados em um hospital terciário de Curitiba, por meio da análise retrospectiva dos laudos de carcinomas da mama ductal/ tipos especiais e lobular de pacientes atendidos entre os anos de 2008 e 2013. Resultados: Foram diagnosticados 327 (91,6%) casos de carcinoma ductal/tipos especiais e30 (8,4%) de carcinoma lobular, totalizando 357 amostras. Desses casos, 27 (7,5%) eram de carcinoma in situ (20 ductal esete lobular) e330 (92,4%), invasores (307ductal invasor + tipos especiais e 23 lobular). Aprevalência de tumores da mama nas mulheres foi de 99,1%, tendo os pacientes, na sua maioria, mais de 50 anos (67,2%). Em relação ao estadiamento da União Internacional de Controle do Câncer/American Joint Committee on Cancer (UICC/AJCC), 49,2% dos tumores ductal + tipos especiais foram diagnosticados em estadio Iou II, enquanto 56,6% dos tumores lobular concentraram-se nos estadios II ou III/IV Quanto à escala de Nottingham, grande parte dos casos era de grau intermediário (43,9%). Um total de 61% dos tumores eram receptor de estrogênio positivo (RE+) e 54%, receptor de progesterona positivo (RP+). Por outro lado, 36,1% apresentaram receptor 2 de fator de crescimento epidermal humano positivo (HER2+), taxa superior à indicada pela literatura. Conclusão: Os carcinomas da mama avaliados neste estudo apresentaram perfil semelhante ao exposto na literatura, com algumas peculiaridades inerentes ao serviço local. Entretanto, a baixa frequência de casos in situ indica falha no diagnóstico precoce.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide, and epidemiological studies may help understanding its mechanisms. Objective: To carry out a survey of the number of breast cancer cases diagnosed in a period of six years. Methods: The profile of breast cancers diagnosed in a tertiary hospital in Curitiba was compared with the literature, using a retrospective analysis of ductal/special types and lobular breast carcinoma reports issued between 2008 and 2013. Results: Three hundred twenty-seven (91.6%) cases of ductal/special types carcinoma and 30 (8.4%) cases of lobular carcinoma were diagnosed, totaling 357 samples. From these cases, 27 (7.5%) were carcinoma in situ (20 ductal and seven lobular) and 330 (92.4%) were invasive carcinoma (307 invasive ductal/special types and 23 lobular). The prevalence of breast cancer among women was 991% and the majority of patients were older than 50 years of age (67.2%). Regarding the União Internacional de Controle do Câncer/American Joint Committee on Cancer (UICC/AJCC) staging, 49.2% of the ductal/special types tumors were diagnosed in Stages I or II, while 56.6% of lobular carcinomas were diagnosed in Stages II or III/IV. Regarding the Nottingham score, most cases were intermediate grade (43.9%). A total of 61% of the tumors were estrogen receptor positive (ER+) and 54% were progesterone receptor positive (PR+). Moreover, 36.1% presented positive human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2+), a rate higher than that indicated by the literature. Conclusion: The breast carcinomas evaluated in this study presented a profile similar to that reported in the literature, with some peculiarities inherent to the local pathology service. Nevertheless, the low frequency of in situ cases indicates failure in early diagnosis.

RESUMEN Introducción: El cáncer de mama es la segunda causa de muerte por cáncer entre mujeres alrededor del mundo, y estudios epidemiológicospueden contribuir al entendimiento de sus mecanismos. Objetivos: Determinar el número de casos de carcinoma de mama diagnosticados en un período de seis anos. Método: El perfil de los carcinomas de mama diagnosticados en un hospital terciario de Curitiba ha sido comparado con aquel de la literatura, a través de análisis retrospectivo de historias de carcinoma de mama ductal/tipos especialesy lobulillar de pacientes atendidos entre los anos de 2008y 2013. Resultados: Se han diagnosticado 327 (91,6%) casos de carcinoma ductal/tipos especiales y 30 (8,4%) de carcinoma lobulillar, totalizando 357 muestras. De estos casos, 27 (7,5%) eran de carcinoma in situ (20 ductaly siete lobulillar) y 330 (92,4%), invasores (307 ductal invasor +tipos especialesy 23 lobulillar). La incidencia de tumores de mama en mujeres fue de 99,1%, siendo los pacientes, en su generalidad, mayores de50 anos (67,2%). Con respecto a la estadificación de Unión Internacional Contra el Cáncer/American Joint Committee on Cancer (UICC/AJCC), 49,2% de los tumores ductales + tipos especiales fueron diagnosticados en los estadios I o II, mientras 56,6% de los tumores lobulillares se concentraron en los estadios II o III/IV. En cuanto al sistema de Nottingham, gran parte de los casos era de grado intermediario (43,9%). Un total de 61% de los tumores era receptor de estrógeno positivo (RE+) y 54%, receptor de progesterona positivo (RP+). Por otro lado, 36,1% presentaron el receptor 2 del factor de crecimiento epidérmico humano positivo (HER2+), tasa superior a la indicada en la literatura. Conclusión: Los carcinomas de mama evaluados en este estudio presentaron perfil semejante al expuesto en la literatura, con algunaspeculiaridades inherentes al servicio local. Sin embargo, la baja frecuencia de casos in situ indica fracaso en el diagnóstico precoz.

RESUMO Objetivo: A história da Anatomia Patológica no Estado do Paraná, sul do Brasil, está ligada com a fundação da Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR). Este estudo identificou a primeira autópsia clínica do sistema nervoso central (SNC) realizada pelo Departamento de Anatomia Patológica da UFPR. Métodos: Foi realizada revisão dos arquivos dos relatórios de autópsia do HC-UFPR, desde 1951. As interpretações anátomo-clínicas do laudo da autópsia e os possíveis agentes etiológicos foram discutidas. Resultado: A primeira autópsia clínica em adulto com estudo do SNC foi realizada em 23 de abril de 1952. Um homem de 45 anos com pneumonia lobar com abscessos pulmonares, complicada com meningite bacteriana. Conclusão: Este caso é a primeira autópsia clínica em adulto com estudo do SNC do estado do Paraná e possivelmente do Sul do Brasil. A causa da morte foi devido a uma doença infecciosa, as principais causas de óbito no Brasil nos anos 50.

ABSTRACT Objective: The history of Anatomical Pathology in the state of Paraná, in southern Brazil, is closely linked with the foundation of the Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR). This study identified the first central nervous system (CNS) clinical autopsy performed by the Department of Anatomical Pathology of the UFPR. Methods: This study reviewed the autopsy report archives of the Hospital de Clínicas-UFPR from 1951 onward. The clinical anatomy interpretations of the autopsy report and possible etiologic agents were discussed. Result: The first adult clinical autopsy with CNS study was performed on April 23, 1952 on a 45-year-old man with lobar pneumonia with abscesses complicated by bacterial meningitis. Conclusion: This case was the first CNS clinical autopsy performed in the state of Paraná and, possibly, in southern Brazil. The death was due to an infectious disease, which was the main cause of death in Brazil in the 1950s.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar o efeito das células-tronco mesenquimais sobre a fertilidade na endometriose retrocervical experimental. Métodos Um total de 27 coelhas da raça Nova Zelândia foram divididas em três grupos: endometriose, em que os implantes endometriais foram criados; mesenquimal, em que as células-tronco mesenquimais foram aplicadas complementarmente à criação implantes endometriais; e controle, sem endometriose. O teste exato de Fisher foi realizado para comparar variáveis dicotômicas qualitativas entre os grupos. As variáveis quantitativas foram comparadas pelos testes não paramétricos de MannWhitney e Kruskal-Wallis. O teste de Mann-Whitney foi utilizado para a comparação múltipla pós-hoc com correção de Boniferroni. Resultados em relação ao início do período fértil, os grupos endometriose, mesenquimal e controle tiveram medianas de 14±12,7; 40±5; e 33±8,9 dias, respectivamente (p = 0,005). Sobre a taxa de fertilidade (número de gravidezes), os grupos endometriose e controle mostraram uma taxa de 77,78%, enquanto o grupo mesenquimal mostrou uma taxa de 11,20% (p = 0,015). Não foram observadas diferenças na classificação histológica de Keenan entre os grupos (p = 0,730). No que diz respeito à aparência macroscópica das lesões, o grupo mesenquimal mostrou maiores adesões pélvicas. Conclusão O uso de células-tronco mesenquimais na endometriose contribuiu negativamente para a fertilidade, sugerindo o papel dessas células no desenvolvimento da doença.

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the effect of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on fertility in experimental retrocervical endometriosis. Methods A total of 27 New Zealand rabbits were divided into three groups: endometriosis, in which endometrial implants were created; mesenchymal, in which MSCs were applied in addition to the creation of endometrial implants; and control, the group without endometriosis. Fisher’s exact test was performed to compare the dichotomous qualitative variables among the groups. The quantitative variables were compared by the nonparametric Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests. The MannWhitney test was used for post-hoc multiple comparison with Boniferroni correction. Results Regarding the beginning of the fertile period, the three groups had medians of 14±12.7, 40±5, and 33±8.9 days respectively (p = 0.005). With regard to fertility (number of pregnancies), the endometriosis and control groups showed a rate of 77.78%, whereas the mesenchymal group showed a rate of 11.20% (p = 0.015). No differences in Keenan’s histological classification were observed among the groups (p = 0.730). With regard to the macroscopic appearance of the lesions, the mesenchymal group showed the most pelvic adhesions. Conclusion The use of MSCs in endometriosis negatively contributed to fertility, suggesting the role of these cells in the development of this disease.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos do ultrassom terapêutico e/ou alongamento, na morfologia após contusão muscular em ratos. MÉTODOS: Ratos Wistar machos (n = 35, 8-9 semanas, 271 ± 14 g) foram divididos em cinco grupos: Grupo Controle (GC = 3); Grupo Lesão (GL = 8); Grupo Lesão + Ultrassom (GLUS = 8); Grupo Lesão + Alongamento (GLA = 8); Grupo Lesão + Ultrassom + Alongamento (GLUSA = 8). A aplicação do ultrassom no GLUS e GLUSA foi feita do terceiro ao sétimo dia, pulsado 50%, 0,5 W/cm2, 5 min. Do décimo ao vigésimo primeiro dia foi feito o alongamento passivo no GLA e GLUSA, em quatro repetições de 30 s, com 30 s de intervalo, cada repetição. Após 22 dias, os ratos foram pesados e os músculos de ambas as patas foram retirados para análise do peso e comprimento muscular, número e comprimento dos sarcômeros, área de secção transversa e porcentagem de colágeno. RESULTADOS: O peso corporal final foi maior do que o inicial em todos os grupos. O número de sarcômeros foi maior no GLA em relação ao GLUS e no GLUSA em relação ao GLUS e ao GC; o comprimento dos sarcômeros foi maior no GLUS comparado com o GLA (p < 0,05). A área de secção transversa no GL foi maior do que no GLA e a porcentagem de colágeno foi maior no GL comparado com o GLA e o GC; no GLUS com o GLA e o GC; no GLUSA com o GC. CONCLUSÃO: O protocolo de alongamento passivo induziu a sarcomerogênese e apresentou efeito antifibrótico em músculos submetidos a contusão. O ultrassom, independentemente da associação com o alongamento, não foi suficiente para impedir a fibrose nos músculos lesados.

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the effects of ultrasound and stretching in morphology after rat muscle contusion. METHODS: Male Wistar rats (n = 35, 8-9 weeks, 271 ± 14 g) were divided into five groups: control group (CG = 3); lesion group (LG = 8); lesion + ultrasound group (LUG = 8); lesion + stretching group (LSG = 8); lesion + ultrasound + stretching group (LUSG = 8). The ultrasound was applied in LUG and LUSG from the third to the seventh day, the dose used was 50% pulsed, 0.5 W/cm2, 5 min. From the tenth until the twenty first day, passive stretching was performed, in four repetitions lasting 30 s each with 30 s of rest. Initial and final body weight, muscle weight and length, number and sarcomere length, muscle fiber cross-sectional area, and percentage of collagen were evaluated after 22 days. RESULTS: The final body weight was higher than the initial in all groups. The number of sarcomeres was statistically higher in LSG than LUG and higher in LUSG than LUS and CG; in sarcomere length was higher in LUG when compared with LSG (p < 0.05). The cross sectional area in LG was higher than LSG, and the percentage of collagen was higher in LG when compared with LSG and CG; in LUG when compared with LSG and CG; and in LUSG when compared with CG. CONCLUSION: The passive stretching protocol induced sarcomerogenesis and antifibrotic effect over the muscle submitted to contusion. Ultrasound, even in association with stretching, was not sufficient to prevent fibrosis in the injured muscle.

ABSTRACT PURPOSE: To assess the capsules formed by silicone implants coated with polyurethane foam and with a textured surface. METHODS: Sixty-four Wistar albinus rats were divided into two groups of 32 each using polyurethane foam and textured surface. The capsules around the implants were analyzed for 30, 50, 70 and 90 days. Were analyzed the following parameters: foreign body reaction, granulation tissue, presence of myofibroblasts, neoangiogenesis, presence of synovial metaplasia, capsular thickness, total area and collagen percentage of type I and III, in capsules formed around silicone implants in both groups. RESULTS: The foreign body reaction was only present in the four polyurethane subgroups. The formation of granulation tissue and the presence of myofibroblasts were higher in the four polyurethane subgroups. Regarding to neoangiogenesis and synovial metaplasia, there was no statistical difference between the groups. Polyurethane group presented (all subgroups) a greater capsule thickness, a smaller total area and collagen percentage of type I and a higher percentage area of type III, with statistical difference. CONCLUSION: The use of polyurethane-coated implants should be stimulated by the long-term results in a more stable capsule and a lower incidence of capsular contracture, despite developing a more intense and delayed inflammatory reaction in relation to implants with textured surface.

Resumo Introdução: o câncer de mama é a segunda causa de morte no mundo, sendo 90% dessas mortes decorrentes de metástases. A metaloprotease de matriz 2 (MMP-2) possui atividade de gelatinase capaz de degradar o principal constituinte do microambiente tumoral, o colágeno do tipo IV. Há duas proteínas bem estabelecidas utilizadas como marcadores na prática clínica para o câncer de mama, os receptores de estrógeno (RE) e de progesterona (RP). Embora a presença desses receptores tenha sido associada a um melhor prognóstico, a perda delas pode ocorrer durante a progressão do tumor, com subsequente resistência à terapia hormonal. Objetivo: analisar a correlação entre as proteínas MMP-2, RE e RP por imuno-histoquímica e estabelecer o processo metastático em tumores de mama primários. Método: amostras de tumor de mama (n=44) foram analisadas por imuno-histoquímica para MMP-2, receptor de estrógeno e progesterona. Resultados: observou-se que 90% das pacientes que tinham metástases e morreram apresentaram coloração positiva para a MMP-2 (p=0,0082 para ambos). Usando a análise de Kaplan-Meier, verificou-se que as pacientes RE negativas, também positivas para MMP-2, apresentaram sobrevida livre de doença (SLD) e sobrevida global (SG) (p=0,012 e p=0,005, respectivamente) piores quando comparadas às pacientes MMP-2 negativas. Resultados semelhantes foram encontrados em pacientes RP negativas para SLD (p=0,077) e SG (p=0,038). Conclusão: embora o número de amostras avaliadas tenha sido baixo (n=44), esses dados iniciais permitem inferir que a MMP-2 em combinação com os marcadores já bem estabelecidos poderia ajudar na previsão do surgimento de metástase e morte em pacientes com câncer de mama.

Summary Introduction: Breast cancer is the most cause of death, and approximately 90% of these deaths are due to metastases. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) gelatinase activity is able to degrade a major constituent of the tumor microenvironment, type IV collagen. Two well-established proteins used as markers in clinical practice for breast cancer are the receptors for estrogen (ER) and progesterone (PR). Although the presence of these receptors has been associated with a better prognosis, loss of these proteins can occur during tumor progression, with subsequent resistance to hormone therapy. Objective: To study the correlation among MMP-2, ER, and PR, as well as the establishment of the metastatic process in primary breast tumors. Method: Breast cancer samples (n=44) were analyzed by immunohistochemistry for MMP-2, ER, and PR. Results: We observed that 90% of patients who had metastases and died showed positive staining for MMP-2 (p=0.0082 for both). Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, we found that negative ER patients who were also positive for MMP-2 had even worse disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) (p= 0.012 and p=0.005, respectively). Similar results were found in PR-negative patients for DFS (a trend p=0.077) and OS (p=0.038). Conclusion: Regardless of our small sample size (n=44), the data obtained strongly suggest that MMP-2 in combination with already well-established markers could help to predict the emergence of metastases and death in patients with breast cancer.

An unusually high incidence of microcephaly in newborns has recently been observed in Brazil. There is a temporal association between the increase in cases of microcephaly and the Zika virus (ZIKV) epidemic. Viral RNA has been detected in amniotic fluid samples, placental tissues and newborn and fetal brain tissues. However, much remains to be determined concerning the association between ZIKV infection and fetal malformations. In this study, we provide evidence of the transplacental transmission of ZIKV through the detection of viral proteins and viral RNA in placental tissue samples from expectant mothers infected at different stages of gestation. We observed chronic placentitis (TORCH type) with viral protein detection by immunohistochemistry in Hofbauer cells and some histiocytes in the intervillous spaces. We also demonstrated the neurotropism of the virus via the detection of viral proteins in glial cells and in some endothelial cells and the observation of scattered foci of microcalcifications in the brain tissues. Lesions were mainly located in the white matter. ZIKV RNA was also detected in these tissues by real-time-polymerase chain reaction. We believe that these findings will contribute to the body of knowledge of the mechanisms of ZIKV transmission, interactions between the virus and host cells and viral tropism.

ABSTRACT PURPOSE : To compare ileal anastomoses in the immediate postoperative healing period after meloxicam use. METHODS: Forty two male Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups of 21, COX and control group. To COX meloxicam in combination with morphine was given in 3 days period. Control group received only morphine during the same period. Each group was divided into three sub-groups of 7, which were euthanized at 5, 10, and 21 days postoperatively. Comparison was based in histological evaluation of collagen type I and III using sirius red, immunohistochemical through vascular endothelial growth factor and matrix metalloproteinase-9. RESULTS: Healing process in scheduled periods did not show significant differences (p>0.05) between the COX and control groups during any of the periods. CONCLUSION: The use of meloxicam in the postoperative period following ileal anastomosis did not affect healing.

Objetivo: O objetivo deste trabalho é avaliar a expressão da molécula de adesão intercelular-1 (ICAM-1) na esclera e coroide de coelhos hipercolesterolêmicos. Métodos: Coelhos New Zealand foram organizados em dois grupos: GN (grupo dieta normal), composto por 8 coelhos (8 olhos), recebeu ração padrão para coelhos, durante 4 semanas; GH (grupo hipercolesterolêmico), composto por 13 coelhos (13 olhos), recebeu dieta rica em colesterol a 1% por 8 semanas. Foi realizada a dosagem sérica de colesterol total, triglicerídeos, HDL colesterol, glicemia de jejum no início do experimento e no momento da eutanásia. Ao final da 4ª semana para o GN e 8ª semana para o GH foi realizada a eutanásia dos animais. Os olhos foram corados com hematoxilina-eosina e submetidos à análise histológica, histomorfométrica e imunohistoquímica com o anticorpo ICAM-1. Resultados: Observou-se significativo aumento do colesterol total e triglicerídeos do GH em relação ao GN (p<0,001). A avaliação histológica com hematoxilina eosina revelou grande quantidade de macrófagos no complexo esclero-coroidal do GH. No GH constatou-se significativo aumento da espessura da esclera e coroide em relação ao GN (p<0,001). Houve significativo aumento da expressão da ICAM-1 na esclera e coroide dos animais do GH em relação ao GN (p<0,001). Conclusão: Este estudo demonstra que a dieta hipercolesterolêmica induz ao aumento da expressão da ICAM-1 na esclera e coroide de coelhos.

Objetivo: Avaliar a expressão das citocinas inflamatórias TNF-α e IL-6 na esclera e coroide de coelhos hipercolesterolêmicos. Método: Coelhos New Zealand foram organizados em dois grupos: GN recebeu ração padrão para coelhos; GH recebeu dieta rica em colesterol a 1%. Foi realizada a dosagem sérica de colesterol total, triglicerídeos, HDL colesterol, glicemia de jejum no início do experimento e no momento da eutanásia. Ao final da 4ª semana para o GN e 8ª semana para o GH foi realizada a eutanásia dos animais. Os olhos foram submetidos à análise imuno-histoquímica com os anticorpos TNF-α e IL-6. Resultados: O GH manifestou significativo aumento do colesterol total e triglicerídeos em relação ao GN (p<0,001). Houve significativo aumento da expressão da TNF-α (p<0,001) e da IL-6 (p=0,002) na coroide e esclera dos animais do GH em relação ao GN. Conclusão: Este estudo demonstra que a dieta hipercolesterolêmica induz ao aumento da expressão das citocinas TNF-α e IL-6 na coroide e esclera de coelhos.