Treatment of colitis by oral negatively charged nanostructured curcumin in rats

PURPOSE

To examine the effects of a negatively charged nanostructured curcumin microemulsion in experimental ulcerative colitis (UC) in rats.

METHODS

Four percent acetic acid was used to induce UC. The animals were treated for seven days and randomly assigned to four groups: normal control (NC), colitis/normal saline (COL/NS), colitis/curcumin (COL/CUR), and colitis/mesalazine (COL/MES). The nanostructured curcumin was formulated with a negative zeta potential (-16.70 ± 1.66 mV). Dosage of the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 1-β (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase), macro and microscopic evaluation of the colon tissue were analyzed.

RESULTS

The COL/CUR group had a higher level of antioxidant enzymes compared to the COL/MESgroup. The levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 were significantly lower in the colonic tissue of the COL/CUR group rats, when compared to the COL/NS and COL/MES groups (p < 0.001). The presence of ulcers in the colonic mucosa in rats of the COL/NSgroup was significantly higher than in the COL/MES group (p < 0.001). In the NC and COL/CUR groups, there were no ulcers in the colonic mucosa.

CONCLUSIONS

The nanostructured microemulsion of curcumin, used orally, positively influenced the results of the treatment of UC in rats. The data also suggests that nanostructured curcumin with negative zeta potential is a promising phytopharmaceutical oral delivery system for UC therapy. Further research needs to be done to better understand the mechanisms of the negatively charged nanostructured curcumin microemulsion in UC therapy.

Cannabidiol in the prelimbic cortex modulates the comorbid condition between the chronic neuropathic pain and depression-like behaviour in rats: The role of medial prefrontal cortex 5-HT1A and CB1 receptors

The prelimbic division (PrL) of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) is a cerebral division that is putatively implicated in the chronic pain and depression. We investigated the activity of PrL cortex neurons in Wistar rats that underwent chronic constriction injury (CCI) of sciatic nerve and were further subjected to the forced swimming (FS) test and mechanical allodynia (by von Frey test). The effect of blockade of synapses with cobalt chloride (CoCl₂), and the treatment of the PrL cortex with cannabidiol (CBD), the CB₁ receptor antagonist AM251 and the 5-HT_1A receptor antagonist WAY-100635 were also investigated. Our results showed that CoCl₂ decreased the time spent immobile during the FS test but did not alter mechanical allodynia. CBD (at 15, 30 and 60 nmol) in the PrL cortex also decreased the frequency and duration of immobility; however, only the dose of 30 nmol of CBD attenuated mechanical allodynia in rats with chronic NP. AM251 and WAY-100635 in the PrL cortex attenuated the antidepressive and analgesic effect caused by CBD but did not alter the immobility and the mechanical allodynia when administered alone. These data show that the PrL cortex is part of the neural substrate underlying the comorbidity between NP and depression. Also, the previous blockade of CB₁ cannabinoid receptors and 5-HT_1A serotonergic receptors in the PrL cortex attenuated the antidepressive and analgesics effect of the CBD. They also suggest that CBD could be a potential medicine for the treatment of depressive and pain symptoms in patients with chronic NP/depression comorbidity.

Diagnostic accuracy of 18F-FDG-PET in abdominal sepsis in rats

Purpose

The objective of this study was to investigate the accuracy of 18F-FDG-PET in the diagnosis of multibacterial abdominal sepsis by cecum ligation and puncture (CLP) in rats.

Methods

Adult Wistar rats ( Rattus norvegicus ), weighing 227±35g, were allocated into a sepsis group by CLP (n=10) and sham group (n=10). 18F-FDG-PET using microPET was performed on all rats after 24 hours.

Results

All animals survived for postoperative 24h. The abdomen/liver ratio of the standardized uptake value (SUV) percentage was significantly higher in the sepsis group than in the sham (p=0.004). The ROC curve showed an accuracy of 18F-FDG-PET to detect abdominal sepsis of 88.9% (p=0.001), sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 88.9%. When a cut-off point of 79% of the ratio between the SUV on the abdominal region and liver was established, the sensitivity was 90%, specificity of 88.9%; positive and negative predictive values of 90.0% and 88.9%, respectively.

Conclusions

The diagnostic accuracy of 18F-FDG-PET in rats with abdominal sepsis was significantly high. It was also demonstrated the predictive ability of the abdomen/liver SUV ratio to diagnose abdominal sepsis. These findings may have implications for the clinical setting, locating septic foci with PETscan.

Indomethacin attenuates mechanical allodynia during the organization but not the maintenance of the peripheral neuropathic pain induced by nervus ischiadicus chronic constriction injury

The neurochemical mechanisms underlying neuropathic pain (NP) are related to peripheral and central sensitization caused by the release of inflammatory mediators in the peripheral damaged tissue and ectopic discharges from the injured nerve, leading to a hyperexcitable state of spinal dorsal horn neurons. The aim of this work was to clarify the role played by cyclooxygenase (COX) in the lesioned peripheral nerve in the development and maintenance of NP by evaluating at which moment the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin, a non-selective COX inhibitor, attenuated mechanical allodynia after placing one loose ligature around the nervus ischiadicus, an adaptation of Bennett and Xie's model in rodents. NP was induced in male Wistar rats by subjecting them to chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the nervus ischiadicus, placing one loose ligature around the peripheral nerve, and a sham surgery (without CCI) was used as control. Indomethacin (2 mg/kg) or vehicle was intraperitoneally and acutely administered in each group of rats and at different time windows (1, 2, 4, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days) after the CCI or sham surgical procedures, followed by von Frey's test for 30 min. The data showed that indomethacin decreased the mechanical allodynia threshold of rats on the first, second, and fourth days after CCI (P<0.05). These findings suggested that inflammatory mechanisms are involved in the induction of NP and that COX-1 and COX-2 are involved in the induction but not in the maintenance of NP.

Effect of the Ileum and Colon on Liver Regeneration

PURPOSE

The colon and ileum play significant roles on liver physiology. Studies about simultaneous hepatectomy and colectomy or enterectomy are scarce and controversial. We investigated and compared the effects of ileum and colon resection on liver regeneration.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty four Wistar rats were allocated in group I-(sham), group II-70% hepatectomy; group III-70% hepatectomy + ileal resection, and group IV-70% hepatectomy + partial colectomy. On the sixth day, serum hepatic enzymes, albumin, hepatocyte growth-factor (HGF) and transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-α) were measured. The hepatic regeneration rate was estimated. Ki-67 immunohistochemical analysis was done in remnant liver.

RESULTS

Hepatic enzymes levels were significantly higher in group III rats comparing to the other groups (p < 0.001). In group IV, the levels were significantly lower than in groups II and III (p < 0.001). Albuminemia was significantly lower in group III rats comparing with the other groups (p < 0.001). Albuminemia was not different comparing groups I and IV (p > 0.05). Cytokines HGF and TGF-α levels in group IV were significantly higher than in the other groups (p < 0.001). Liver regeneration rate was higher group IV than in groups II and III, and the difference was statistically significant (p = 0.002). The hepatocytes expression of Ki-67 was significantly higher in the remnant liver of group IV than in group III (p = 0.002). There was no difference in Ki-67 expression between groups II and IV (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Ileum and colon resection have different effects on liver regeneration. Colon resection positively influences liver regeneration, while ileum resection negatively influences the regenerative process, in a rat model.

Effect of Arrabidaea chica extract against chemically induced breast cancer in animal model

Purpose:

To examine the effects of Arrabidaa chica (Bignoniacea) extract, a native plant of the Amazon known as crajiru, on a 7,12-dimethyl-1,2-benzanthracene (DMBA)-induced breast cancer model in Wistar rats.

Methods:

We compared the response of breast cancer to the oral administration of A. chica extract (ACE) for 16 weeks, associated or not with vincristine. Groups: normal control; DMBA (50mg/kg v.o,) without treatment; DMBA+ACE (300 mg/kg); DMBA+vincristine. 500μg/kg injected i.p; DMBA+ACE+Vincristine 250μg/kg i.p. Imaging by microPET and fluorescence, biochemistry, oxidative stress, hematology and histopathology were used to validate the treatments.

Results:

All animals survived. A gradual weight gain in all groups was observed, with no significant difference (p>0.05). The oral administration of ACE and ACE+vincristine 50% significantly reduced breast tumors incidence examined with PET-18FDG and fluorescence (p<0.001). Significant reduction of serum transaminases, oxidative stress and hematological toxicity were observed in these groups. Antioxidant enzyme levels in breast tissue were significantly higher compared to the DMBA and DMBA+vincristine groups.

Conclusion:

These results demonstrate for the first time that ACE positively influences the treatment of DMBA-induced breast cancer in animal model, inducing a reduction in oxidative stress and chemotherapy toxicity, meaning that ACE may have clinical implication in further studies.

Gliclazide Prevents 5-FU-Induced Oral Mucositis by Reducing Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and P-Selectin Adhesion Molecules

Oral mucositis (OM) is one of the main side effects of the head and neck cancer treatment, particularly radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. OM is characterized by ulcers, erythema, dysphagia, xerostomia, and increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections. In the perspective of finding pharmacological therapies to prevent inflammation and ulceration of OM, the investigation of the pleiotropic effect of commercial drugs is needed, among them gliclazide, an antidiabetic drug. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of gliclazide in an experimental OM model induced by 5-fluorouracil. Male hamsters were pre-treated with oral gliclazide (1, 5, or 10 mg/kg) for 10 days. Cheek pouch samples were subjected to histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis (COX₂, iNOS, MMP-2, NFκB P65, GPx) and imunofluorescence (P-selectin). IL-1β and TNF-α levels, Myeloperoxidase activity (MPO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were investigated by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy analysis. NFκB NLS P50 protein levels were analyzed by western blotting. The group treated with gliclazide at a dose of 10 mg/kg showed presence of erythema, no evidence of erosion, and absence of mucosal ulceration with a score of 1 (1–2) (p < 0.01). Histopathological data for the group treated with gliclazide 10 mg/kg showed re-epithelialization, discrete mononuclear inflammatory infiltrate and absence of hemorrhage, edema, ulcers and abscesses with a score of 1 (1–1) (p < 0.01). Treatment with gliclazide 10 mg/kg reduced MPO activity (p < 0.001), MDA levels (p < 0.001) and NFκB NLS P50 (p < 0.05) protein levels, resulting in low immunostaining to Cox-2, iNOS (p < 0.05), NFκB P65 (p < 0.05), and negative immunoreaction to MMP-2 (p < 0.001). However, it appeared that for Gpx1, the staining was restored in the GLI 10-FUT group compared with 5FUT/saline (p < 0.05). Immunofluorescence revealed decreased levels of P-selectin (p < 0.001) after treatment with gliclazide 10 mg/kg (p < 0.05). In summary, gliclazide accelerated mucosal recovery and reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in the 5-FU-induced OM in hamsters.

Response time in the emergency services. Systematic review

The growth of the urban population raises concern about municipal public managers in the sense of providing emergency medical services (EMS) that are aligned with the needs of prehospital emergency medical care demanded by the population. The literature review aims at presenting the response time of emergency medical services in several parts of the world and discussing some factors that interfere in the result of this indicator such as GDP (Gross Domestic Product) percentage spent on health and life expectancy of countries. The study will also show that in some of the consulted articles, authors suggest to EMS recommendations for decreasing the response time using simulations, heuristics and metaheuristics. Response time is a basic indicator of emergency medical services, in such a way that researchers use the descriptive statistics to evaluate this parameter. Europe and the USA outstand in the publication of studies that present this information. Some articles use stochastic and mathematical methods to suggest models that simulate scenarios of response time reduction and suggest such proposals to the local EMS. Countries in which the response time was identified have a high index of human development and life expectancy between 74.7 and 83.7 years.

Wound healing of diabetic rats treated with Moringa oleifera extract

PURPOSE

To evaluate if Moringa oleifera leaf aqueous extract (ME) influences the healing of skin wounds of diabetic rats.

METHODS

Wistar rats were used (6 rats/group). Group 1 received normal saline (NS) v.o. Group 2 received moringa extract (100mg/kg v.o) for 3 weeks. Groups 3 and 4: Streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetes. Group 3 received NS; Group 4 received aqueous ME (100mg/kg) v.o.The wounds of groups 1 and 3 rats were topically treated with NS; wounds of groups 2 and 4 treated with 200µL of 10% ME. After anesthesia, all rats had skin square excision wounds 1.5cm2. Wound percent contractions were measured. On 10th day, blood glucose and serum cytokines were measured. Histometry of wounds was studied using ImagePro6.0 software.

RESULTS

Glycemia was significantly reduced in ME treated rats. These rats had higher percent contraction of the wounds on 2nd, 5th and 10th days, then controls (p<0.05). Diabetic rats treated with NS had TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 expression higher than in rats receiving ME. The histopathological score of ME treated diabetic rats (198±13.7) was significantly higher than treatment with NS (145±10.5).

CONCLUSION

ME extract positively influenced healing of wounds in diabetic rats after systemic and topical treatment.

Protective effect of dexamethasone on 5-FU-induced oral mucositis in hamsters

Oral mucositis (OM) is an important side effect of cancer treatment, characterized by ulcerative lesions in the mucosa of patients undergoing radiotherapy or chemotherapy, which has marked effects on patient quality of life and cancer therapy continuity. Considering that few protocols have demonstrated efficacy in preventing this side effect, the aim of this study was to examine the effect of dexamethasone (DEX) on OM induced by 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in hamsters by studying signaling pathways. OM was induced in hamsters by 5-FU followed by mechanical trauma (MT) on day 4. On day 10, the animals were euthanized. The experimental groups included saline, MT, 5-FU, and DEX (0.25, 0.5, or 1 mg/kg). Macroscopic, histopathological, and immunohistochemical analyses as well as immunofluorescence experiments were performed on the oral mucosa of the animals. The oral mucosal samples were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). DEX (0.5 or 1 mg/kg) reduced inflammation and ulceration of the oral mucosa of hamsters. In addition, DEX (1 mg/kg) reduced the cytokine levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). DEX (1 mg/kg) also reduced the immunoexpression of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, MIF, Smad 2/3, Smad 2/3 phosphorylated and NFκB p65 in the jugal mucosa. Finally, DEX (1 mg/kg) increased interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 3 (IRAK-M), glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MKP1) gene expression and reduced NFκB p65 and serine threonine kinase (AKt) gene expression, relative to the 5-FU group. Thus, DEX improved OM induced by 5-FU in hamsters.

Anatomo-radiological correlation using 18-FDG-PET in abdominal sepsis model in rats. A preliminary study

Purpose:

To examine a correlation of micro-PET images with photographic images of the digestive organs in abdominal sepsis model.

Methods:

Male Wistar rats weighing 265±18g were used. Abdominal sepsis was induced by ligature and cecal puncture. Micro-PET Images from abdominal cavity septic foci were obtained using 18-Fluoro-deoxyglucose, looking for a correlation with photographic images of abdominal cavity organs. Pearson's correlation test was used.

Results:

The mean standard uptake values (SUV) and lesion areas were 2.58±0.63SUVbwg/ml and 546.87±300.95mm2, respectively. There was a strong positive correlation between the two variables (r=0.863, p=0.137), which resulted in a coefficient of determination r2?0.75, meaning that 75% of SUV variation is explained by the lesion areas of digestive organs.

Conclusion:

Micro-PET allows high throughput assessment of lesion count and volume in pre-clinical rat model of CPL abdominal sepsis.

Oxacillin magnetically targeted for the treatment of Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus infection in rats

Purpose:

To evaluate the effect of oxacillin bonded to magnetic nanoparticles in local infection model in rat.

Methods:

Twelve Wistar rats weighing 290±18g were randomly divided into four groups (n=6, each) and all rats had a magnet ring sutured on their right thighs. In the biodistribution group rats 0.1mL of 99mTc-magnetite (0.66 MBq) was injected i.v and after 30 minutes, biodistribution of 99mTc-magnetite was evaluated in right and left thighs. The other groups were inoculated with MRSA in each thigh muscles. Group 1 rats were injected i.v. with magnetite, group 2 with Magnetite + Oxacillin, group 3 with saline twice a day. After 24 hours samples of muscle secretion were harvested for microbiological analysis; muscle, lungs and kidneys for histology.

Results:

99mTc-magnetite uptake was three-fold higher in right thigh muscles (with external magnet) than in the left. In magnetite and oxacillin-magnetite groups, bacterial/CFU was significantly lower in thigh muscles than in saline-controls. The inflammatory reaction in muscles and lungs was significantly lower in oxacillin-magnetite group-rats than in other groups (p<0.001) .

Conclusion:

This study confirms the potential antimicrobial activity of magnetic nanoparticles for Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus strains, which in addition to concentrate the antibiotic at the infection site, positively influenced the treatment.

The ileum positively regulates hepatic regeneration in rats

PURPOSE

To test the hypothesis that liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy can be influenced by the ileum.

METHODS

Eighteen Wistar rats were distributed into groups of six animals: 1 - ileum resection+ hepatectomy 2/3; 2 - hepatectomy 2/3, and 3 - sham. Anesthesia with ketamine and xylazine i.p., aseptic technique, analgesia with meperidine (10mg/kg s.c.). On day 6, serum ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase (AP) and albumin were measured. Liver regeneration and hepatocyte mitosis were quantified. Statistical analysis with ANOVA and Tukey tests, with significance p<0.05.

RESULTS

In group hepatectomy+ileal resection, ALT, AST and AP were 180.6±24.9, 58.6±3.1 and 254.6±46.6 respectively. They were significantly higher than in the hepatectomy group, whose values were 126.0±16.5, 44.1±3.9 and 163.5±8.6, respectively (p<0.001). Albumin levels were not significantly different among groups. Liver regeneration in hepatectomy group (94.17%) was statistically higher (p<0.001) than in ileal resection+hepatectomy group (55.96%). In the latter group the mitosis of hepatocytes were significantly less frequent than in the hepatectomy group.

CONCLUSION

The data confirm that the ileum positively influence on liver regeneration in rats undergoing hepatectomy.

Influence of Annona muricata (soursop) on biodistribution of radiopharmaceuticals in rats

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of A. muricata on biodistribution of two radiopharmaceuticals: sodium phytate and dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA), both labeled with 99mtechnetium.

METHODS

Twenty four Wistar rats were divided into two treated groups and two controls groups. The controls received water and the treated received 25mg/kg/day of A. muricata by gavage for ten days. One hour after the last dose, the first treated group received 99mTc-DMSA and the second sodium 99mTc-phytate (0.66MBq each group), both via orbital plexus. Controls followed the same protocol. Forty min later, all groups were sacrificed and the blood, kidney and bladder were isolated from the first treated group and the blood, spleen and liver isolated from the second treated group. The percentage of radioactivity per gram of tissue (%ATI/g) was calculated using a gamma counter.

RESULTS

The statistical analysis showed that there was a statistically significant decrease (p<0.05) in the uptake of %ATI/g in bladder (0.11±0.01and1.60±0.08), kidney (3.52±0.51and11.84±1.57) and blood (0.15±0.01and 0.54±0.05) between the treated group and control group, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The A. muricata hydroalcoholic extract negatively influenced the uptake of 99mTc-DMSA in bladder, kidney and blood of rats.

Effects of andiroba (Carapa guianensis) oil on hepatic function of rats subjected to liver normothermic ischemia and reperfusion

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of the Andiroba (carapa guianensis) oil on liver function in rats subjected to normothermic ischemia / reperfusion injury.

METHODS

we divided 12 Wistar rats into two groups: saline (n = 6) and Andiroba (n = 6). The Andiroba group was treated with Andiroba oil (0.63 ml/kg orally) for seven days before surgery. Ischemia was induced by occlusion of the blood supply to the lateral and median lobes of the liver, using vascular clips, in both groups, for 45min, followed by reperfusion for 60 minutes later. We analyzed dosages of AST, ALT, Gamma-GT, and liver biodistribution of 99mTc phytate.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the percentage of radioactivity / gram of tissue (%ATI/g) in the right lobe of the saline group (17.53 ± 2.78) compared with the Andiroba group (18.04 ± 3.52) p = 0.461, the same occurring in the%ATI/g of the left lobe of the liver when the two groups were compared (p = 0.083). In the saline group, the%ATI/g was significantly higher in the non-ischemic right hepatic lobe (17.53 ± 2.78) when compared with the left lobe (5.04 ± 0.82) that suffered ischemia / reperfusion (p = 0.002). Significant differences also occurred when comparing the right (18.04 ± 3.52) and left (7.11 ± 1.86) lobes of the animals of the Andiroba group (p = 0.004). There was no significant difference in dosages of AST, ALT and Gamma- GT when comparing the two groups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Andiroba oil did not contribute to the protection of liver function in a rat model of liver injury induced by normothermic ischemia and reperfusion.

Ileal interposition and viability of pancreatic islets transplanted into intramuscular site of diabetic rats

BACKGROUND

Assuming that ileal stimulation by food may increase incretin secretion, we aimed to investigate whether ileal interposition obtains adequate pancreatic islet viability and function after intramuscular islet transplantation in diabetic rats.

METHODS

We investigated four groups of eight Wistar rats: ileal interposition + islet transplantation, islet transplantation, ileal interposition, and diabetic control. All rats were subjected to streptozotocin-induced diabetes. We used the C-peptide/glucose ratio and islet image to investigate beta cell mass, and plasma glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) measure.

RESULTS

Ileal interposition was effective in preserving function and increasing islet mass in animals with islets transplanted into alginate microcapsules. The plasma GLP-1 level in the diabetic control rats was a basal concentration (4.1 ± 1.2 pM). GLP-1 level after ileal interposition + islet transplantation (12.3 ± 3.3 pM) was significantly higher (p < .05) than in the islet transplantation group (8.2 ± 2.4 pM) and ileal interposition group rats (7.6 ± 1.8 pM).

CONCLUSIONS

Ileal interposition positively influenced beta cell viability after intramuscular transplantation of pancreatic islets in diabetic rats.

Effects of purified Saccharomyces cerevisiae (1→3)-β-glucan on venous ulcer healing

Water-insoluble glucan was isolated from the baker’s yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The yeast cells were treated with alkali and the residue then with acid. Chemical and NMR (1D and 2D) analyses showed that a linear (1→3)-β-glucan was purified that was not contaminated with other carbohydrates, proteins or phenolic compounds. The effects of the glucan on wound healing were assessed in human venous ulcers by histopathological analysis after 30 days of topical treatment. (1→3)-β-glucan enhanced ulcer healing and increased epithelial hyperplasia, as well as increased inflammatory cells, angiogenesis and fibroblast proliferation. In one patient who had an ulcer that would not heal for over 15 years, glucan treatment caused a 67.8% decrease in the area of the ulcer. This is the first study to investigate the effects of (1→3)-β-glucan on venous ulcer healing in humans; our findings suggest that this glucan is a potential natural biological response modifier in wound healing.

Metabolic and hematologic consequences of colectomy associated to hepatectomy in rats

PURPOSE: To investigate the influence of partial colectomy associated with hepatectomy on the biodistribution of the 99mTc-phytate, on metabolic parameters, as well as labeling and morphology of red blood cells. METHODS: Wistar rats were distributed into three groups (each with six), nominated as colectomy, colectomy+hepatectomy and sham. In the 30th postoperative day all rats were injected with 99mTc-phytate 0.1mL i.v. (radioactivity 0.66 MBq). After 15 minutes, liver sample was harvested and weighed. Percentage radioactivity per gram of tissue (%ATI/g) was determined using an automatic gamma-counter. Serum AST, ALT, alkaline phosphatase and red blood cells labeling were determined. RESULTS: The liver %ATI/g and red blood cells labeling were lower in colectomy and colectomy+hepatectomy rats than in sham rats (p <0.05), and no difference was detected comparing the colectomy and colectomy+hepatectomy groups. Red blood cells morphology did not differ among groups. Serum levels of AST, ALT and alkaline fosfatase were significantly higher in colectomy+hepatectomy than in colectomy rats (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Hepatectomy associated with colectomy lowered the uptake of radiopharmaceutical in liver and in red blood cells in rats, coinciding with changes in liver enzymatic activity.

Effect of sildenafil in renal ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effect of sildenafil, administered prior to renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R), by scintigraphy and histopathological evaluation in rats.

METHODS

Twenty-four rats were divided randomly into two groups. They received 0.1 ml of 99mTechnetium-etilenodicisteine intravenous, and a baseline (initial) renal scintigraphy was performed. The rats underwent 60 minutes of ischemia by left renal artery clamping. The right kidney was not manipulated. The sildenafil group (n=12) received orally 1 mg/kg of sildenafil suspension 60 minutes before ischemia. Treatment with saline 0.9% in the control group (n=12). Half of the rats was assessed after 24 hours and half after seven days I/R, with new renal scintigraphy to study differential function. After euthanasia, kidneys were removed and subjected to histopathological examination. For statistical evaluation, Student t and Mann-Whitney tests were used.

RESULTS

In the control group rats, the left kidneys had significant functional deficit, seven days after I/R, whose scintigraphic pattern was consistent with acute tubular necrosis, compared with the initial scintigraphy (p<0.05). Sildenafil treatment resulted in better differential function of the left kidneys 24h after reperfusion, compared with controls. Histopathologically, the left kidney of control rats (24 hours after I/R) showed a higher degree of cellular necrosis when compared with the sildenafil treated rats (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Sildenafil had a protective effect in rat kidneys subjected to normothermic I/R, demonstrated by scintigraphy and histomorphometry.

Evaluation of chitosan gel with 1% silver sulfadiazine as an alternative for burn wound treatment in rats

PURPOSE

Evaluation of the rheological, biological and therapeutic properties of a new topical formulation consisting of chitosan gel containing 1% silver sulfadiazine, as an alternative for the treatment of burn wounds.

METHODS

An experimental study was done with 21 Wistar rats divided into three groups. Group I was treated with chitosan gel without the antimicrobial, group II was treated with chitosan gel with 1% silver sulfadiazine and group III was treated with commercially available 1% silver sulfadiazine cream.

RESULTS

Due to its pseudoplastic characteristic and good bioadhesiveness, the chitosan gels showed a satisfactory retention time over the wounds. No statistical difference was found in the amount of drug released from the chitosan gel and commercially available cream, as well as in the healing time among the groups. Wounds treated with chitosan gel with silver sulfadiazine showed a higher fibroblast production and a better angiogenesis than in the other groups, which are important parameters on the evolution of the healing process.

CONCLUSION

The topical use of chitosan gel in association with silver sulfadiazine ameliorated the neovascularization and inflammatory reaction in burn wounds. This new formulation showed advantageous rheological properties and efficient release of the drug.

[Effect of the simvastatin in abdominal sepsis of diabetic rats]

OBJECTIVE

Infection and sepsis are major causes of morbidity and mortality after surgery of diabetic patients. Statins have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory (pleiotropic) effects, independent of lipid lowering. This study aimed to observe whether the pretreatment with simvastatin in a cecal ligation and perforation model of sepsis is beneficial in diabetic rats.

METHODS

Fifty six Wistar rats were randomly assigned to non-diabetic group (n=28), and streptozotocin-induced diabetic group (n=28). Abdominal sepsis was induced in 14 diabetic and in 14 non diabetic rats and the other 28 rats were allocated on sham group. Sepsis rats and sham rats (each with 7 animals) were treated with oral simvastatin (20 mg kg-1 day-1) or normal saline solution 0.9%. Peripheral blood TNFalpha, IL-1beta, IL-6, C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, leukocytes and neutrophils were tested in all the animals. Statistical analysis was done by ANOVA and Tukey test, with p<0.05.

RESULTS

Simvastatin reduced mortality in diabetic rats. Peripheral blood TNFalpha, IL-1beta, IL-6, C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, leukocytes and neutrophils were lower in diabetic and non diabetics septic rats treated with simvastatin, than after saline treatment.

CONCLUSION

Simvastatin showed anti-inflammatory effect, which could play some protection against the progress of sepsis in diabetic rats.

Protective effect of simvastatin in the cyclophosphamide-induced hemohrragic cystitis in rats

PURPOSE: Cyclophosphamide (CYP) is an antineoplastic agent used for the treatment of many neoplastic and inflammatory diseases. Hemorrhagic cystitis is a frequent side effect of CYP. Several studies show that simvastatin has important pleiotropic (anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory) effects. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of simvastatin on bladder, ureter and kidney injury caused by CYP. METHODS: Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups. The CYP/SIM group received simvastatin microemulsion by gavage during 7 days (10 mg/kg body wt) before the administration of CYP and the CYP/SAL group rats received saline 0.9%. The control rats were not treated. After that, all rats were treated with a single dose of CYP 200 mg/kg body wt intraperitoneally. The rats were killed 24 h after CYP administration. Plasma cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) were measured by ELISA. Macro and light microscopic study was performed in the bladder, kidney and ureter. RESULTS: In the bladders of CYP/SIMV treated rats edema of lamina propria with epithelial and sub-epithelial hemorrhage were lower than in CYP/SAL treated rats. The scores for macroscopic and microscopic evaluation of bladder and ureter were significantly lower in CYP/SIMV rats than in CYP/SAL rats. The kidney was not affected. The expression of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 was significatly lower in CF/SINV rats (164.8±22, 44.8±8 and 52.4±13) than in CF/SAL rats (378.5±66, 122.9±26 e 123.6±18), respectively. CONCLUSION: The results of the current study suggest that simvastatin pretreatment attenuated CYP-induced urotelium inflammation and decreased the activities of cytokines.

Biodistribution of technetium-99m pertechnetate after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (Capella technique) in rats

PURPOSE: The biodistribution of sodium pertechnetate, the most used radiopharmaceutical in nuclear medicine, has not been studied in details after bariatric surgery. The objective was to investigate the effect of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) on biodistribution of sodium pertechnetate (Na99mTc-) in organs and tissues of rats. METHODS: Twelve rats were randomly divided into two groups of 6 animals each. The RYGB group rats were submitted to the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and the control group rats were not operated. After 15 days, all rats were injected with 0.1mL of Na99mTc- via orbital plexus with average radioactivity of 0.66 MBq. After 30 minutes, liver, stomach, thyroid, heart, lung, kidney and femur samples were harvested, weighed and percentage of radioactivity per gram (%ATI/g) of each organ was determined by gama counter Wizard Perkin-Elmer. We applied the Student t test for statistical analysis, considering p<0.05 as significant. RESULTS: Significant reduction in mean %ATI/g was observed in the liver, stomach and femur in the RYGB group animals, compared with the control group rats (p<0.05). In other organs no significant difference in %ATI/g was observed between the two groups. CONCLUSION: This work contributes to the knowledge that the bariatric surgery RYGB modifies the pattern of biodistribution of Na99mTc-.

The effect of the Rochagan on radiolabeling with (99m)Tc

Radionuclides are used in nuclear medicine by variety of diagnostic procedures. The labeling of red blood cells (RBC) with (99m)Tc is a current method applied in clinical nuclear medicine. Drugs can alter this labeling and modify the disposition of the radiopharmaceuticals. The influence of Rochagan on the labeling of blood constituents with (99m)Tc was reported. Samples of blood were incubated with different concentrations of Rochagan (0%; 6.25%; 12.5%; 25%; 50%; 100%). Stannous chloride and (99m)Tc (3.7MBq/mL) were added. Plasma (P) and (RBC) were isolated and precipitated with thricloroacetic acid 5%. The insoluble (IF) and soluble fractions (SF) were separated. The %ATI in RBC, IF-P and IF-RBC were calculated. The %ATI on RBC decreased significantly (p<0.05) from control to all concentrations of Rochagan, respectively: 90.15 + or - 0.14(control) to 70.80 + or - 4.21; to 64.36 + or - 0.33; to 57.30 + or - 1.56; to 50.28 + or - 2.71; to 42.41 + or - 2.24; on IF-RBC, respectively: 84.70 + or - 0.87(control) to 67.16 + or - 4.38; to 63.63 + or - 2.92; to 59.02 + or - 3.17; to 43.75 + or - 1.00; to 24.15 + or - 0.94 and also on IF-P, respectively: 83.46 + or - 1.09(control) to 50.90 + or - 3.36; to 35.46 + or - 4.13; to 35.78 + or - 2.31; to 28.74 + or - 3.09; to 19.66 + or - 1.34. The analyses were performed by T-Student and Mann Whitney tests, p<0.05. This effect was probably due to products present in Rochagan that may complex with ions or have a direct/indirect effect on intracellular stannous ion concentration.

Compensatory sweating after thoracoscopic sympathectomy: characteristics, prevalence and influence on patient satisfaction

OBJECTIVE

This prospective study aimed at investigating predictive factors for compensatory sweating after thoracoscopic sympathectomy.

METHODS

From 2000 to 2002, 80 patients (53 females and 27 males) underwent thoracoscopic sympathectomy to treat hyperhidrosis. Patient ages ranged from 12 to 56 years, and the mean post-operative follow-up period was 42.51 +/- 5.98 months. Patient satisfaction with the results was evaluated through the use of a rating scale. The procedure was performed bilaterally: at the T2 level for facial hyperhidrosis; at the T3-T4 level for axillary hyperhidrosis; and at the T3 level for palmar hyperhidrosis.

RESULTS

Post-operatively, 68 patients (85.0%) presented compensatory sweating, which was classified as mild in 23 (33.8%), moderate in 23 (33.8%) and severe in 22 (32.4%). Considering the final surgical results, 70 patients (87.5%) were satisfied with the outcome of the operation, whereas 10 patients (12.5%) were dissatisfied. The level of patient satisfaction varied according to gender, age, body mass index (BMI) and extent of denervation. The compensatory sweating was more severe on the abdomen and back than on the legs.

CONCLUSIONS

Although compensatory sweating, which is a common adverse effect of sympathectomy, occurred in the majority of cases, the level of patient satisfaction was high. The best candidates for thoracoscopic sympathectomy are young adult women with a BMI < 24.9 kg/m(2).

Glucan and Glutamine Reduce Bacterial Translocation in Rats Subjected to Intestinal Ischemia–Reperfusion

Intestinal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) may induce bacterial translocation (BT). Glutamine (GLN)-enriched nutrition decreases BT. However, little is known about the effect of glucan (GL) in BT. This study investigated the combined effect of GL/GLN on BT, intestinal damage, and portal blood cytokines in animals under I/R. Four groups of 10 rats each were subjected to 60 min of intestinal ischemia and 120 min of reperfusion. The control group (group 1) received only rat food/water, group 2 received glutamine via gavage, group 3 received subcutaneuos soluble (1, 3)-d-glucan, and group 4 received GL + GLN. A sham group (group 5) served as a normal control. Bacterial cultures of ileum, mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN), liver and lung biopsies, histological changes of ileum, and serum cytokines variables were examined after I/R. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Newman-Keuls test. Results showed that GLN, GL, and GL/GLN significantly reduced BT to MLN, liver, and lung. BT was more attenuated after GL treatment than GLN (P < .05). Rats treated with both GL and GLN exhibited lower bacterial colony counts than the ones treated only with GLN or GL. Severe mucosal damage on histological findings was shown in group 1, but these findings were significantly ameliorated (P < .05) in groups 3 and 4. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-a and interleukin (IL)-6 levels in portal serum were significantly reduced and IL-10 was increased by GL and GLN treatment. In conclusion, the use of GL was more effective than GLN in reducing BT, intestinal damage, and cytokine levels after I/R. Additionally, the combination of GL and GLN improved results.

Biodistribution of samarium-153-EDTMP in rats treated with docetaxel

PURPOSE: Many patients with metastatic bone disease have to use radiopharmaceuticals associated with chemotherapy to relieve bone pain. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of docetaxel on the biodistribution of samarium-153-EDTMP in bones and other organs of rats. METHODS: Wistar male rats were randomly allocated into 2 groups of 6 rats each. The DS (docetaxel/samarium) group received docetaxel (15 mg/kg) intraperitoneally in two cycles 11 days apart. The S (samarium/control) group rats were not treated with docetaxel. Nine days after chemotherapy, all the rats were injected with 0.1ml of samarium-153-EDTMP via orbital plexus (25µCi). After 2 hours, the animals were killed and samples of the brain, thyroid, lung, heart, stomach, colon, liver, kidney and both femurs were removed. The percentage radioactivity of each sample (% ATI/g) was determined in an automatic gamma-counter (Wizard-1470, Perkin-Elmer, Finland). RESULTS: On the 9th day after the administration of the 2nd chemotherapy cycle, the rats had a significant weight loss (314.50±22.09g) compared (p<0.5) to pre-treatment weight (353.66± 22.8). The % ATI/g in the samples of rats treated with samarium-153-EDTMP had a significant reduction in the right femur, left femur, kidney, liver and lungs of animals treated with docetaxel, compared to the control rats. CONCLUSION: The combination of docetaxel and samarium-153-EDTMP was associated with a lower response rate in the biodistribution of the radiopharmaceutical to targeted tissues. Further investigation into the impact of docetaxel on biodistribution of samarium-153-EDTMP would complement the findings of this study.

Efeitos da aplicação tópica do mel de Melipona subnitida em feridas infectadas de ratos

OBJETIVO: Avaliar efeitos do uso tópico do mel da abelha silvestre Melipona subnitida na evolução de feridas infectadas de pele. MÉTODO: Ratos Wistar foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em grupos de 6, anestesiados com tiopental sódico 20mg/Kg IP e cetamina 30mg/Kg IM e submetidos a exérese de segmento de 1 cm² de pele total do dorso. Os ratos do grupo C (não infectado) foram tratados com solução salina sobre a ferida diariamente e no grupo MEL (não infectado) as feridas foram tratadas com mel uma vez por dia. Nos grupos C/I e MEL/I as feridas foram inoculadas com solução polimicrobiana. Culturas foram feitas 24 horas após. Caracterizada a infecção, as feridas foram tratadas com solução salina e mel, respectivamente. No terceiro dia de tratamento foi feita nova cultura. Após epitelização foi contado o tempo de cicatrização e as feridas foram biopsiadas para histopatologia e dosagem de TNF-α, IL-1β e IL-6 no tecido. RESULTADOS: O tempo médio de cicatrização do grupo MEL/I foi menor que nos demais grupos (P<0,05). Verificou-se que a densidade de colágeno, leucócitos, fibroblastos e dosagem de citocinas (especialmente TNF) foi maior no grupo infectado e tratado com mel que nos demais grupos. Houve significante redução de bactérias Gram-negativas e positivas nas feridas após o tratamento com mel. CONCLUSÃO: O uso tópico de mel de Melipona subnitida em feridas infectadas da pele de ratos estimulou a resposta imunológica, reduziu a infecção e o tempo de cicatrização.

Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection in advanced gastric carcinoma

BACKGROUND

[corrected] There is substantial evidence that infection with Helicobacter pylori plays a role in the development of gastric cancer and that it is rarely found in gastric biopsy of atrophic gastritis and gastric cancer. On advanced gastric tumors, the bacteria can be lost from the stomach.

AIMS

To analyze the hypothesis that the prevalence of H.pylori in operated advanced gastric carcinomas and adjacent non-tumor tissues is high, comparing intestinal and diffuse tumors according to Lauren's classification

METHODS

A prospective controlled study enrolled 56 patients from "Hospital Universitário", Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil, with advanced gastric cancer, treated from February 2000 to March 2003. Immediately after partial gastrectomy, the resected stomach was opened and several mucosal biopsy samples were taken from the gastric tumor and from the adjacent mucosa within 4 cm distance from the tumor margin. Tissue sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Lauren's classification for gastric cancer was used, to analyse the prevalence of H. pylori in intestinal or diffuse carcinomas assessed by the urease rapid test, IgG by ELISA and Giemsa staining. H. pylori infected patients were treated with omeprazole, clarithromycin and amoxicillin for 7 days. Follow-up endoscopy and serology were performed 6 months after treatment to determine successful eradication of H. pylori in non-tumor tissue. Thereafter, follow-up endoscopies were scheduled annually. Chi-square and MacNemar tests with 0.05 significance were used.

RESULTS

Thirty-four tumors (60.7%) were intestinal-type and 22 (39.3%) diffuse type carcinomas. In adjacent non-tumor gastric mucosa, chronic gastritis were found in 53 cases (94.6%) and atrophic mucosa in 36 patients (64.3%). All the patients with atrophic mucosa were H. pylori positive. When examined by Giemsa and urease test, H. pylori positive rate in tumor tissue of intestinal type carcinomas was higher than that in diffuse carcinomas. In tumor tissues, 34 (60.7%) H. pylori-positive in gastric carcinomas were detected by Giemsa method. H. pylori was observed in 30 of 56 cases (53.5%) in tissues 4 cm adjacent to tumors. This difference was not significant. Eradication of H. pylori in non-tumor tissue of gastric remnant led to a complete negativity on the 12th postoperative month

CONCLUSIONS

The data confirmed the hypothesis of a high prevalence of H. pylori in tumor tissue of gastric advanced carcinomas and in adjacent non-tumor mucosa of operated stomachs. The presence of H. pylori was predominant in the intestinal-type carcinoma.

Biodistribution of the radiophamarceutical sodium pertechnetate (Na99mTcO4) after massive small bowel resection in rats

PURPOSE: To evaluate the biodistribution of sodium pertecnetate (Na99mTcO4) in organs and tissues, the morphometry of remnant intestinal mucosa and ponderal evolution in rats subjected to massive resection of the small intestine. METHODS: Twenty-one Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups of 7 animals each. The short bowel (SB) group was subjected to massive resection of the small intestine; the control group (C) rats were not operated on, and soft intestinal handling was performed in sham rats. The animals were weighed weekly. On the 30th postoperative day, 0.l mL of Na99mTcO4, with mean activity of 0.66 MBq was injected intravenously into the orbital plexus. After 30 minutes, the rats were killed with an overdose of anesthetic, and fragments of the liver, spleen, pancreas, stomach, duodenum, small intestine, thyroid, lung, heart, kidney, bladder, muscle, femur and brain were harvested. The biopsies were washed with 0.9% NaCl.,The radioactivity was counted using Gama Counter WizardTM 1470, PerkinElmer. The percentage of radioactivity per gram of tissue (%ATI/g) was calculated. Biopsies of the remaining jejunum were analysed by HE staining to obtain mucosal thickness. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey test for multiple comparisons were used, considering p<0.05 as significant. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in %ATI/g of the Na99mTcO4 in the organs of the groups studied (p>0.05). An increase in the weight of the SB rats was observed after the second postoperative week. The jejunal mucosal thickness of the SB rats was significantly greater than that of C and sham rats (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: In rats with experimentally-produced short bowel syndrome, an adaptive response by the intestinal mucosa reduced weight loss. The biodistribution of Na99mTcO4 was not affected by massive intestinal resection, suggesting that short bowel syndrome is not the cause of misleading interpretation, if an examination using this radiopharmaceutical is indicated.

Comparing reconstruction with ileocecal graft to jejunal interposition pouch after total gastrectomy in rats

After total gastrectomy, the ileocecal graft may act as a reservoir and protect against reflux but give rise to transposition of the ileum and cause possible changes in bile acid metabolism and nutrition. This study compared the ileocecal graft and jejunal pouch. Male Wistar rats weighing 265 +/- 22 g were submitted to sham operation (S), ileocecal interposition graft (IIG), and jejunal pouch interposition graft (JP) after total gastrectomy. Eight weeks later, the esophagus was examined for evidence of esophagitis. Nutritional biochemistry and weight profile were documented preoperatively and 8 weeks after surgery. The oral glucose tolerance test was performed. Thirty-three rats were operated on and 30 survived for 8 weeks. Esophagitis occurred in seven JP rats. Body weight was significantly higher in IIG than in JP rats (p < .05). Normal glucose tolerance to intragastric glucose load was observed in sham and operated rats. JP rats had a significant decrease in serum albumin, glucose, transferrin, hemoglobin, iron, folate, and calcium, compared to sham (p < .05). Cobalamine was significantly lower in IIG rats than in JP rats (p < .05). In the IIG and JP groups, serum/hepatic total bile acid did not differ significantly from preoperative and sham values. In conclusion, the IIG interposition graft in rats prevented esophagitis, preserved nutrition, and did not interfere with enterohepatic total bile acid circulation.

Effects of the basic fibroblast growth factor and its anti-factor in the healing and collagen maturation of infected skin wound

PURPOSE

The infection is one of the main factors that affect the physiological evolution of the surgical wounds. The aim of this work is to evaluate the effects of fibroblast growth factor (FGFâ) and anti-FGFâ in the healing, synthesis and maturation of collagen when topically used on infected skin wounds of rats.

METHODS

An experimental study was performed in 60 male Wistar rats. All animals were divided in two groups (A and B). Each group was divided in three subgroups A1, B1; A2, B2 and A3, B3. After anesthesia with pentobarbital, two open squared wounds (1cm(2)), 4 cm distant to each other, were done in the dorsal skin of all the rats. In group A (n=30) the wounds were contaminated with multibacterial standard solution, and in group B(n=30) the wounds were maintained sterile. These wounds were named F1 (for inflammation analysis) and F2 (for collagen study). The open wounds of A1 and B1 rats were topically treated with saline solution, A2 and B2 were treated with FGFâ and subgroups A3 and B3 were treated with FGFâ and anti-FGFâ. The rats were observed until complete epitelization of F2 wounds for determination of healing time and the expression of types I and III collagen, using Picro Sirius Red staining. Inflammatory reaction in F1 wounds was studied using hematoxilineosin staining. The three variable was measured by the Image Pro-Plus Média Cybernetics software. The statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA and Tukey test, considering p<0.05 as significant.

RESULTS

It was observed that infection retarded significantly (p<0.05) the time of wound scarring and the topical application of FCFb reverted the inhibition of healing caused by bacteria. The inflammatory reaction was greater in the subgroup B2 than in B1 and A3, and the difference was significant (p<0.05). It was observed greater expression of type I collagen in all the subgroups treated with FCFb, when compared with the untreated subgroups. Type III collagen was significantly decreased in wounds of B3 rats, comparing to the other subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS

The FCFb accelerated the healing of open infected wounds and contributed with maturation of collagen, enhancing the type I collagen density. The anti-FCFb antibody was able to attenuate the production of both type I and III collagen.

Effects of the basic fibroblast growth factor and its anti-factor in the healing and collagen maturation of infected skin wound

PURPOSE: The infection is one of the main factors that affect the physiological evolution of the surgical wounds. The aim of this work is to evaluate the effects of fibroblast growth factor (FGFâ) and anti-FGFâ in the healing, synthesis and maturation of collagen when topically used on infected skin wounds of rats. METHODS: An experimental study was perfomed in 60 male Wistar rats. All animals were divided in two groups (A and B). Each group was divided in three subgroups A1, B1; A2, B2 and A3, B3. After anesthesia with pentobarbital, two open squared wounds (1cm²), 4cm distant to each other, were done in the dorsal skin of all the rats. In group A (n=30) the wounds were contaminated with multibacterial standard solution, and in group B(n=30) the wounds were maintained sterile. These wounds were named F1 (for inflammation analysis) and F2 (for collagen study). The open wounds of A1 and B1 rats were topically treated with saline solution, A2 and B2 were treated with FGFâ and subgroups A3 and B3 were treated with FGFâ and anti-FGFâ. The rats were observed until complete epitelization of F2 wounds for determination of healing time and the expression of types I and III collagen, using Picro Sirius Red staining. Inflammatory reaction in F1 wounds was studied using hematoxilineosin staining. The three variable was measured by the Image Pro-Plus Média Cybernetics software. The statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA and Tukey test, considering p<0.05 as significant. RESULTS: It was observed that infection retarded significantly (p<0.05) the time of wound scarring and the topical application of FCFb reverted the inhibition of healing caused by bacteria. The inflammatory reaction was greater in the subgroup B2 than in B1 and A3, and the difference was significant (p<0.05). It was observed greater expression of type I collagen in all the subgroups treated with FCFb, when compared with the untreated subgroups. Type III collagen was significantly decreased in wounds of B3 rats, comparing to the other subgroups. CONCLUSIONS: The FCFb accelerated the healing of open infected wounds and contributed with maturation of collagen, enhancing the type I collagen density. The anti-FCFb antibody was able to attenuate the production of both type I and III collagen.

Simvastatin improves the healing of infected skin wounds of rats

PURPOSE: This study explores the potential of the simvastatin to ameliorate inflammation and infection in open infected skin wounds of rats. METHODS: Fourteen Wistar rats weighing 285±12g were used. The study was done in a group whose open infected skin wounds were treated with topical application of sinvastatina microemulsion (SIM, n=7) and a second group with wounds treated with saline 0.9 % (SAL, n=7). A bacteriological exam of the wounds fluid for gram positive and gram negative bacteria, the tecidual expression of TNFá and IL-1â by imunohistochemical technique, and histological analysis by HE stain were performed. RESULTS: The expression of TNFa could be clearly demonstrated in lower degree in skin wounds treated with simvastatin (668.6 ± 74.7 ìm²) than in saline (2120.0 ± 327.1 ìm²). In comparison, wound tissue from SIM group displayed leukocyte infiltration significantly lower than that observed in SAL group (p<0.05). Culture results of the samples taken from wound fluid on fourth post treatment day revealed wound infection in only one rat of group simvastatin (SIM), where Proteus mirabilis, Escherchia coli and Enterobacter sp were isolated. In the rats whose wounds were treated with saline (SAL), polymicrobial infection with more than 100,000 CFU/g was detected in all the wounds. CONCLUSION: In addition to its antiinflammatory properties, the protective effects of simvastatin in infected open skin wounds is able to reduce infection and probably has antibacterial action. The potential to treat these wounds with statins to ameliorate inflammation and infection is promising.

Influence of laparoscopy and laparotomy on gasometry, leukocytes and cytokines in a rat abdominal sepsis model

PURPOSE

Laparoscopic surgery is associated with reduced surgical trauma, and less acute phase response, as compared with open surgery. Cytokines are important regulators of the biological response to surgical and anesthetic stress. The aim of this study was to determine if CO2 pneumoperitoneum would change cytokine expression, gas parameters and leukocyte count in septic rats.

METHODS

Wistar rats were randomly assigned to five groups: control (anesthesia only), laparotomy, CO2 pneumoperitoneum, cecum ligation and puncture by laparotomy, and laparoscopic cecum ligation and puncture. After 30 min of the procedures, arterial blood samples were obtained to determine leukocytes subpopulations by hemocytometer. TNFalpha, IL-1beta, IL-6 were determined in intraperitoneal fluid (by ELISA). Gas parameters were measured on arterial blood, intraperitoneal and subperitoneal exudates.

RESULTS

Peritoneal TNFalpha, IL-1beta and IL-6 concentrations were lower in pneumoperitoneum rats than in all other groups (p<0.05). TNFalpha, IL-1beta and IL-6 expression was lower in the laparoscopic than in laparotomic sepsis (p<0.05). Rats from laparoscopic cecum ligation and puncture group developed significant hypercarbic acidosis in blood and subperitoneal fluid when compared to open procedure group. Total white blood cells and lymphocytes were significantly lower in laparoscopic cecum ligation and puncture rats than in the laparotomic (p<0.01). Nevertheless, the laparotomic cecum ligation rats had a significant increase in blood neutrophils and eosinophils when compared with controls (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that the CO2 pneumoperitoneum reduced the inflammatory response in an animal model of peritonitis with respect to intraperitoneal cytokines, white blood cell count and clinical correlates of sepsis. The pneumoperitoneum produced hypercarbic acidosis in septic animals.

Neurotropism and neuropathological effects of selected rhabdoviruses on intranasally-infected newborn mice

Viral neurotropism is the ability of viruses to infect neuronal cells. This is well studied for herpesviruses, rabies-related viruses, and a few others, but it is poorly investigated among almost all arboviruses. In this study, we describe both the neurotropism and the neuropathological effects of Amazonian rhabdoviruses on the brains of experimentally infected-newborn mice. Suckling mice were intranasally infected with 10(-4) to 10(-8) LD50 of viruses. Animals were anaesthetized and perfused after they had become sick. Immunohistochemistry using specific anti-virus and anti-active caspase three antibodies was performed. All infected animals developed fatal encephalitis. Survival time ranged from 18 h to 15 days. Viruses presented distinct species-dependent neurotropism for CNS regions. Histopathological analysis revealed variable degrees of necrosis and apoptosis in different brain regions. These results showed that viruses belonging to the Rhabdoviridae family possess distinct tropism for CNS structures and induce different pattern of cell death depending on the CNS region.

Effects of simvastatin in abdominal sepsis in rats

PURPOSE: Statins are widely recognized as hypolipemic drugs, but some studies have observed anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, known as pleiotropic. The aims of this work was to study possible anti-inflammatory effects of simvastatin in abdominal sepsis. Serum pro-inflammatory cytokines and leukocytes count were determined in an experimental model of abdominal sepsis, using cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in rats. METHODS: Twenty eigth Wistar rats weighing 285±12g were randomly divided in: CLP/Sinvastatin rats (n=7), treated with 10 mg/Kg of oral simvastatin 18 and 2 hs berofe CLP; CLP/Saline group rats (n=7), treated with oral saline; group Sham/Simvastatin (n=7), treated with simvastatin, and group Sham/Saline (n=7), treated with saline. Serum TNF-alpha, IL-1beta and IL-6 by ELISA and total leukocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and eosinophils were determined 24 hs after CLP. ANOVA and Tukey test were used considering significant p<0.05. RESULTS: It was demonstrated that serum TNF-alpha, IL-1beta and IL-6 were respectively 364,8±42pg/mL; 46,3±18pg/mL and 28,4±13pg/mL in CLP/Sinvastatin rats, significantly lower (p<0.05) than in group CLP/Saline (778,5±86pg/ml; 176,9±46pg/ml; 133,6±21 pg/ml, respectively). The same results were observed in total leukocytes and neutrophils counts. CONCLUSION: These results clearly demonstrate that simvastatin is an effective agent that reduces cytokines levels and leukocyte count in sepsis, independently of its well-known lipid-lowering effects. Thus, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors like simvastatin have important anti-inflammatory effects in abdominal sepsis in rats.

Prevention of bacterial translocation using beta-(1-3)-D-glucan in small bowel ischemia and reperfusion in rats

PURPOSE: To investigate the role of beta-(1-3)-D-glucan on 99mTc labelled Escherichia coli translocation and cytokines secretion in rats submitted to small bowel ischemia/reperfusion injury. METHODS: Five groups (n=10 each) of Wistar rats were subjected to control(C), sham(S), group IR subjected to 45 min of bowel ischemia/60 min of reperfusion(I/R), and group I/R+glucan subjected to 45 min of bowel ischemia/60 min of reperfusion(I/R) and injected with 2mg/Kg intramuscular. Translocation of labelled bacteria to mesenteric lymph nodes, liver, spleen, lung and serum was determined using radioactivity/count and colony forming units/g(CFU/g). Serum TNFalpha, IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-10 were measured by ELISA. RESULTS: CFU/g and radioactivity/count were higher in I/R than in I/R+glucan rats. In C, S and S+glucan groups, bacteria and radioactivity/count were rarely detected. The I/R+glucan rats had enhancement of IL-10 and suppressed production of serum TNFalpha, IL-1beta and, IL-6, compared to I/R untreated animals. CONCLUSION: The beta-(1-3)-D-glucan modulated the production of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines during bowel ischemia/reperfusion, and attenuated translocation of labelled bacteria.

Surgical site infection in a university hospital in northeast Brazil

We examined prevention of surgical site infection (SSI) in a tertiary teaching hospital in northeast Brazil, from January 1994 to December 2003. The survey included 5,742 patients subjected to thoracic, urologic, vascular and general surgery. The criteria for diagnosing SSI were those of the Centers for Disease Control, USA, and the variables of the National Nosocomial Infection Surveillance risk index were used. Data analysis revealed that anesthetic risk scores, wound class and duration of surgery were significantly associated with SSI. A total of 296 SSIs were detected among the 5,742 patients (5.1%). The overall incidence of SSI was 8.8% in 1994; it decreased to 3.3% in 2003. In conclusion, the use of educational strategies, based on guidelines for SSI prevention reduced SSI incidence. Appropriate management of preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative incision care, and a surveillance system based on international criteria, were useful in reducing SSI rates in our hospital.

Similarity between the in vitro activity and toxicity of two different Fungizone/Lipofundin admixtures

PURPOSE

Amphotericin B (AmB), an antifungal agent that presents a broad spectrum of activity, remains the gold standard in the antifungal therapy. However, sometimes the high level of toxicity forbids its clinical use. The aim of this work was to evaluate and compare the efficacy and toxicity in vitro of Fungizon (AmB-D) and two new different AmB formulations.

METHODS

three products were studied: Fungizon, and two Fungizon /Lipofundin admixtures, which were diluted through two methods: in the first one, Fungizon was previously diluted with water for injection and then, in Lipofundin (AmB-DAL); the second method consisted of a primary dilution of AmB-D as a powder in the referred emulsion (AmB-DL). For the in vitro assay, two cell models were used: Red Blood Cells (RBC) from human donors and Candida tropicallis (Ct). The in vitro evaluation (K+ leakage, hemoglobin leakage and cell survival rate-CSR) was performed at four AmB concentrations (from 50 to 0.05 mg x L(-1)).

RESULTS

The results showed that the action of AmB was not only concentration dependent, but also cellular type and vehicle kind dependent. At AmB concentrations of 50 mg x L(-1), although the hemoglobin leakage for AmB-D was almost complete (99.51), for AmB-DAL and AmB-DL this value tended to zero. The p = 0.000 showed that AmB-D was significantly more hemolytic.

CONCLUSION

The Fungizon-Lipofundin admixtures seem to be the more valuable AmB carrier systems due to their best therapeutic index presented.

Similarity between the in vitro activity and toxicity of two different fungizone™ / lipofundin™ admixtures

PURPOSE: Amphotericin B (AmB), an antifungal agent that presents a broad spectrum of activity, remains the gold standard in the antifungal therapy. However, sometimes the high level of toxicity forbids its clinical use. The aim of this work was to evaluate and compare the efficacy and toxicity in vitro of Fungizon™ (AmB-D) and two new different AmB formulations. METHODS: three products were studied: Fungizon™, and two Fungizon™ /Lipofundin™ admixtures, which were diluted through two methods: in the first one, Fungizon™ was previously diluted with water for injection and then, in Lipofundin™ (AmB-DAL); the second method consisted of a primary dilution of AmB-D as a powder in the referred emulsion (AmB-DL). For the in vitro assay, two cell models were used: Red Blood Cells (RBC) from human donors and Candida tropicallis (Ct). The in vitro evaluation (K+ leakage, hemoglobin leakage and cell survival rate-CSR) was performed at four AmB concentrations (from 50 to 0.05mg.L-1). RESULTS: The results showed that the action of AmB was not only concentration dependent, but also cellular type and vehicle kind dependent. At AmB concentrations of 50 mg.L-1, although the hemoglobin leakage for AmB-D was almost complete (99.51), for AmB-DAL and AmB-DL this value tended to zero. The p = 0.000 showed that AmB-D was significantly more hemolytic. CONCLUSION: The Fungizon™-Lipofundin™ admixtures seem to be the more valuable AmB carrier systems due to their best therapeutic index presented.

Treatment of postoperative enterocutaneous fistulas by high-pressure vacuum with a normal oral diet

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Enterocutaneous fistulas are associated with prolonged hospital stay, high morbidity/mortality, and increased hospital costs. This study aims to describe the use of a vacuum system and normal oral diet in dealing with this problem.

METHODS

Seventy-four consecutive patients with recent and defined external postoperative fistulas were analyzed. Abdominal imaging was used to exclude abscess and distal obstruction. The fistula tract was sealed with Foley catheter, connected to a negative pressure flask, changed daily for 5, 10 or 15 days, as necessary. A normal oral diet was permitted.

RESULTS

No patient died. Serum albumin and transferrin showed significantly higher levels at the end of treatment than at the beginning. The moderate and low-output fistulas had the best results (97% closed). Forty-eight (65%) fistulas closed after 5 days, 16 (22%) after 10 days and 4 (5%) after 15 days. Treatment failed in 6 (8%) patients, who subsequently underwent surgery. The fistula did not close in 1 patient with a low output. The cost of the treatment was USD 41.75/day and it was considered cost-effective.

CONCLUSIONS

The vacuum system demonstrated good results in the treatment of fistulas. It included simplicity, low cost, short hospital stay, absence of skin breakdown, normal eating, good nutrition and activity patterns.