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PGBIOEF PROGRAMA DE PÓS-GRADUAÇÃO EM BIOLOGIA ESTRUTURAL E FUNCIONAL CENTRO DE BIOCIÊNCIAS Phone: Not available E-mail: Not available https://posgraduacao.ufrn.br/pgbioef

Dissertations/Thesis

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2025

	Dissertations
1	SAMELLA KARINE DE MACEDO LEOPOLDINO Teaching of Morphology; Learning Stations; Pregnant Woman; Nurse. Advisor : DANIELLE BARBOSA MORAIS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : DANIELLE BARBOSA MORAIS DEYLA MOURA RAMOS LUCIANA HOFFERT CASTRO CRUZ Data: Apr 23, 2025 Show Abstract Embryology is part of the basic curriculum in undergraduate programs in the biomedical field. In its clinical application, the role of nurses stands out, as they are responsible for directly assisting non-pregnant women, pregnant women, and/or neonates. However, its teaching is challenging and faces obstacles such as limited course hours and a disconnect from clinical practice, which contributes to a gap in nurses' training. Therefore, this study aimed to enhance the initial training of nurses by integrating embryology knowledge with clinical practice. A descriptive cross-sectional study with a qualitative approach was conducted, comprising the following steps: analysis of Embryology course syllabi in Nursing undergraduate programs across the country; a literature review on developmental disorders commonly related to clinical practice; a survey with nurses regarding the contribution of Embryology to their clinical practice; and practical workshops with nursing students. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis techniques. The analysis of 63 syllabi revealed that crucial topics such as developmental disorders (47.5%) and the development of organ systems (33.3%) are not adequately covered. The most prevalent gestational and neonatal complications found in the literature included disorders of the cardiovascular (16%), nervous (12.8%), respiratory (12.8%), and digestive (7.7%) systems. Embryology plays a significant role in nursing practice, particularly in the care of pregnant women (74%). Among the professionals who responded to the survey, 36% believed that the development of organ systems and congenital malformations should have been more thoroughly explored during their undergraduate studies. A lack of active learning methodologies and a scarcity of practical classes were also noted. For nursing students, the implementation of workshops enhanced confidence, security, interest, and learning, contributing to the theoretical-practical integration of the subject, with a high level of satisfaction. The results demonstrated how integrating Embryology teaching with clinical practice can improve nurses' roles in maternal-fetal health care. It is hoped that these findings will support further studies in the field, encouraging a new perspective on the importance of Embryology education combined with Nursing practice. This approach can strengthen the training of future professionals, aiming for more effective and resolute healthcare for women and neonates.

2024

	Dissertations
1	PABLO RUDÁ FERREIRA BARROS DE SOUZA USE OF TANIN EXTRACT AS A NATURAL COLOR FOR THE PLASTINATION PROCESS Advisor : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR MARIA ROSANA DE SOUZA FERREIRA EWERTON FYLIPE DE ARAÚJO SILVA Data: Jan 30, 2024 Show Abstract A anatomia, conhecida há vários séculos, é uma disciplina de extrema importância na formação de profissionais na área da saúde. A utilização de cadáveres, que é essencial para seu ensino, faz repercutir discussões amplas sobre a maneira mais eficiente para utilização dessas peças. Atualmente, a maneira mais comum de ensino da anatomia é com conservação das peças cadavéricas conservadas em formaldeído, substância química, volátil com odor desagradável, e que causa irritabilidade nas vias respiratórias e na região dos olhos. Uma técnica inovadora desenvolvida pelo médico alemão Dr. Von Hagens em 1977, chamada de plastinação, favorece a minimização desses efeitos indesejados causados pelo formol. Essa técnica consiste na impregnação de polímeros de silicone, epóxi ou poliéster nos tecidos biológicos, retirando antes a gordura e a água ali presente, por meio da desidratação. Essa técnica possibilita uma maior durabilidade das peças cadavéricas e o torna com aspecto mais próximo ao natural. Por não apresentar substâncias conservadoras que causam malefícios à saúde, a plastinação facilita o manuseio e uso de peças cadavéricas para fins didáticos e científicos. Para que a visualização das estruturas se torne mais evidente, utiliza-se corantes específicos, bem como, a pintura das peças. Com isso se faz necessário o desenvolvimento de um protocolo de coloração dos tecidos musculares, associado à técnica de plastinação, tornando a técnica ainda mais eficiente. Com isso, o objetivo do presente trabalho é utilizar corante extraído da casca do pau-brasil (Paubrasilia echinata) na técnica de plastinação. Para isso, será utilizado métodos de alocação do corante em etapas diferentes do processo de plastinação, bem como sua associação com substâncias desidratantes distintas, os quais utilizará acetona ou álcool etílico. A fim de avaliar a melhor eficiência do corante para produção de protocolo adequado no processo de plastinação. O que tornará o ensino da anatomia humana mais eficiente
2	GABRIEL DUTRA TEIXEIRA "Distribution of the Manx shearwater (Puffinus puffinus) on the coast of the Potiguar Basin, Northeast Brazil: Space-Time Analysis and Correlation with Findings of Mortality Causes." Advisor : DANIEL SOLON DIAS DE FARIAS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : ANA BERNADETE LIMA FRAGOSO DANIEL SOLON DIAS DE FARIAS RADAN ELVIS MATIAS DE OLIVEIRA Data: Apr 5, 2024 Show Abstract Puffinus puffinus is an animal species that belongs to a migratory seabird, and migrates to the South Atlantic crossing the Hemisfere when in the non-reproductive stage, to spend the summer. The coastal zone of the brazillian northeastern region is considered a relevant spot for the migratory routes of seabirds, in special, the region named Potiguar Basin (Rio Grande do Norte and Ceará). This area is monitored by an Beach Monitoring Project (in portuguese PMP-BP) that records, annually, a lot of specimens stranded alive or dead. The aim of this work is to determine the spatial-temporal pattern of stranded Puffinus puffinus in the States of RN and Ceará, and identify the most frequent causes of death and perform a histopathological diagnosis for this specimen. Were used data from the PMP-BP collected in daily monitoring since 2011 to 2022. The animals founded alive were forwarded to the Rehabilitation Center of Marine Fauna from Projeto Cetáceos da Costa Branca from Estadual University of Rio Grande do Norte in the city of Areia Branca (RN) and the dead animals were conducted to the Laboratory of Marine Biota for necropsy procedures. In these necropsies were collected tissue samples of organs that presented macroscopic alterations, in addition to gonads for sexing. These collected material underwent histological processing at the Vertebrate Morphology Laboratory at Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte. Sixty-six (66) individuals were recorded during the monitored period, 14 males, 17 females and 35 with undetermined sex. Of these, 43 individuals were classified as adults and 12 as juveniles. The spatio-temporal distribution analysis indicated that 33 animals stranded in the State of CE and 33 in the State of RN, from September to February. Regarding the analysis of cause of death, it was detected that marine debris, mechanical trauma and oil contamination are among the categories with an anthropogenic relationship and account for approximately 33% of the causes of death. The other causes were related to exhaustion, sepsis and parasitosis. The interpretation and organization of necropsy reports combined with histological tissue analysis offer more complete answers within the field of conservation strategies in favor of these animals.
3	WIGINIO GABRIEL DE LIRA BANDEIRA Stereological study of the effects of ayahuasca on the striatum neuroanatomy of juvenile marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) induced to chronic stress Advisor : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR MELQUISEDEC ABIARE DANTAS DE SANTANA PAULO LEONARDO ARAÚJO DE GÓIS MORAIS RUTHNALDO RODRIGUES MELO DE LIMA Data: Apr 26, 2024 Show Abstract The striatum (St) integrates cognitive, motor and limbic functions and plays a critical role in the processing of emotions, motivation and rewards, and may undergo several morphophysiological changes in neuropsychiatric diseases. Depression, a complex psychiatric disorder, affects millions of people around the world and leads to an increased risk of suicide, decreased quality of life and functional impairment. Conventional treatments require prolonged use, leading to drug resistance, so new treatments and therapeutic strategies have been widely studied. Ayahuasca is a tea used in indigenous religious rituals, which has psychoactive properties. Its medicinal use in depression has shown promising results in preliminary studies. Our objective was to morphoquantitatively evaluate the effects of ayahuasca on St in an already validated model of juvenile depression induced in a non-human primate. Six marmosets were used, divided into groups of 2 animals. One group was kept in family life (GF) and two groups were socially isolated (GI). Social isolation was carried out for each animal, separating it from all others in the colony. One of the isolated groups received doses of ayahuasca tea (GT) 5 days before and three times during the isolation period, while the other groups received the same dose of saline as a placebo. After 120 days of experimentation, euthanasia and transcardiac perfusion were performed. The brains were sectioned and stained with thionin using the Nissl method. We carried out the St evaluation using stereological techniques to verify the total volume, neuronal volume density, estimate the total number of neurons and neuronal volume. For all measurements and estimates, equidistant sections of the caudate (Cd) and putamen (Pu) were analyzed, selected by systematic and uniform sampling. The GI and GT presented increased volumes when compared to the GF. The GI showed an increase in neuronal number compared to the GF. The treatment appears to have partially controlled this increase. Isolation increased neuronal distribution in St, and Ayahuasca reversed it. Our data show the decrease in volume of St neurons and the neuroregenerative/neuroprotective action of Ayahuasca in a model of juvenile depression in non-human primates subjected to social isolation, as evidenced by the partial restoration of normal neuronal volume and number.
4	LUIZ ROBERTO FERNANDES PEREIRA Stereological evaluation of the effects of ayahuasca (Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis) on the somatosensory cortex of juvenile marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) induced to chronic stress Advisor : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE MELQUISEDEC ABIARE DANTAS DE SANTANA PAULO LEONARDO ARAÚJO DE GÓIS MORAIS Data: May 10, 2024 Show Abstract Mood disorders such as depression are among the most common neuropsychiatric illnesses in humans, yet little is known about their neurobiology. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of Ayahuasca on the treatment of depression using morphoquantitative parameters in the primary somatosensory cortex of marmosets (Callithrix jacchus). The experimental animal used in the study was the marmoset, validated as a translational animal model of juvenile depression. Specimens were obtained through the Primate Center at UFRN. The entire process was overseen by a veterinarian, and the research was authorized by the Committee on Ethics in Animal Use (CEUA). For the results, six animals were randomly assigned to three groups: 2 in the family group (GF), 2 in the isolated group (GI), and 2 in the treated group (GT), aged 7 to 9 months at the start of the experiment, classified as juvenile I and II. The animals in the FG represented the positive control; those in the GI constituted the negative control group, and those in the GT formed the experimental group. The animals received Ayahuasca tea, provided by the Department of Physiology at UFRN, via gavage. Perfusion, craniotomy, and microtomy were performed. Subsequently, the obtained sections were stained using the Nissl technique, with thionin as the dye. Cavalieri's method was employed in stereology to analyze the volumes of areas in the primary somatosensory cortex (A3A, A3B, A1/2) among the animal groups (GF, GI, GT). The GT exhibited the largest volumes in all areas, with the A1/2 area showing the highest volumes in all groups. In contrast, the GF consistently displayed the smallest volumes.
5	MATHEUS MEDEIROS NUNES EVOLUTIONARY HISTOPATHOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF CARCINOGENESIS INDUCED IN THE ORAL CAVITY, ESOPHAGUS AND STOMACH OF RATS Advisor : PEDRO PAULO DE ANDRADE SANTOS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : FABIANE FERREIRA MARTINS PEDRO PAULO DE ANDRADE SANTOS SERGIO ADRIANE BEZERRA DE MOURA Data: May 11, 2024 Show Abstract The complexity of carcinogenesis requires detailed studies to assist in its understanding. The objective of the present study was to carry out the chemical induction of carcinogenesis, analyzing the histopathological evolution of epithelial changes that culminate in the appearance of Epidermoid Carcinoma in different regions of the digestive tract (oral cavity, esophagus and stomach) with different induction times. We used male Wistar rats as an experimental model of carcinogenesis induced by the compound 1-oxide 4 nitroquinoline (4-NQO), with histopathological analysis of the cases studied to establish the diagnosis, as well as histomorphometric analysis to obtain the area of the lesion. Correlating with the measurement of rat weights during the carcinogenesis induction process. Our sample consisted of two groups, one group at 8 weeks (G8) and a second group at 12 weeks (G12). At the end of the induction time, the groups were euthanized and the studied organs were removed, namely: Tongue and palate (oral cavity), esophagus and stomach, all of which were subjected to laboratory processing to create histopathological slides. In the histopathological analysis, we observed the presence of hyperkeratinization, and different degrees of dysplasia, the formation of squamous cell carcinoma in the tongue, palate, and esophagus was also described, while in the stomach, epithelial erosion was observed. Furthermore, we found that the neoplastic lesions appeared as well-differentiated carcinomas. The data on weight and lesion areas were normally distributed [Kolmogorov-Smirnov] and the ANOVA test was used for the lesion areas and showed a significant difference for the organ, therefore the Post-Hoc test was suggested. has a lesion area larger than the tongue, palate and stomach. The induction model proved to be effective for the formation of lesions for experimental carcinogenesis studies, highlighting the importance of these studies for understanding and substantiating oncological processes in humans.
6	CAINÃ OGUM GONÇALVES DA SILVA Evaluation of the antitumor activity of cashew gum and magnetic core-shell hybrid nanoparticles functionalized with oxaliplatin and retinoic acid in colorectal cancer Advisor : RAIMUNDO FERNANDES DE ARAUJO JUNIOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS : CLODOMIRO ALVES JUNIOR NAIANNE KELLY CLEBIS NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS RAIMUNDO FERNANDES DE ARAUJO JUNIOR RENATA FIGUEIREDO ANOMAL Data: May 16, 2024 Show Abstract Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent and lethal types of cancer worldwide, urgently demanding the development of new therapeutic strategies. In this study, we explored the potential of core-shell nanoparticles (CSNP) and cashew gum nanoparticles (CGNP), combined with oxaliplatin and retinoic acid, as a novel approach in the treatment of CRC. Our objective was to synthesize and characterize CGNP+OXA+CSNP and CGNP+OXA+CSNP+RA hybrid nanosystems, evaluating their efficacy in in vitro and in vivo models of CRC, focusing on cell viability, apoptosis, nanosystem uptake, and drug resistance. To achieve our goals, we employed advanced synthesis methods to produce the hybrid nanosystems, followed by physicochemical characterization. We tested the therapeutic action of these nanosystems in CRC cell cultures and in a murine model using the CT-26 cell line, under the influence of an electromagnetic field, to observe viability, apoptosis, tumor uptake, morphological effects, and drug resistance. The results demonstrated that the CGNP+OXA+CSNP and CGNP+OXA+CSNP+RA hybrid nanosystems exhibited significant antitumor efficacy, reducing the viability of CRC cells in vitro and inhibiting tumor growth in vivo. We observed enhanced apoptosis induction and improved uptake of the nanosystems by tumor cells. Furthermore, functionalization with retinoic acid potentiated the antiproliferative effect, suggesting a promising approach to overcome oxaliplatin resistance. Exposure to the electromagnetic field appeared to amplify the efficacy of the nanosystems, indicating an innovative pathway. We conclude that the hybrid nanosystems developed in this study represent an innovative and effective therapeutic strategy against colorectal cancer. The combination of CGNP, CSNP, oxaliplatin, and retinoic acid, especially under the influence of an electromagnetic field, offers a promising platform for advancing CRC treatment, opening new perspectives for more targeted and personalized antitumor therapies.
7	CECÍLIA PAULINO CASSIANO DA SILVA HEPATIC AND PANCREATIC EVALUATION OF DIABETIC ANIMALS INDUCED BY STREPTOZOTOCIN TREATED WITH SPONDIAS TUBEROSA RUDE EXTRACT Advisor : KARINA CARLA DE PAULA MEDEIROS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : KARINA CARLA DE PAULA MEDEIROS RAIMUNDO FERNANDES DE ARAUJO JUNIOR Islania Giselia Albuquerque Gonçalves Data: Jun 7, 2024 Show Abstract Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia, resulting from deficiency in insulin production by the pancreas and/or its action, leading to long-term complications. Pharmacological therapy for DM faces limitations due to the high number of side effects. Alternative treatments based on natural products have potential in the treatment of DM. The species Spondias tuberosa Arruda, known as umbuzeiro, has been widely used in traditional medicine to treat digestive diseases, infections and diabetes. Despite its frequent use, there are few studies on its benefits. However, a recent study demonstrated its antihyperglycemic activity. Considering the easy access to this species in the region and its pharmacological potential, the objective of this work is to evaluate the antidiabetogenic effect of Spondias tuberosa Arruda, in diabetic rats induced by streptozotocin, including clinical, biochemical, morphological analyses, and evaluation of possible markers involved in the therapeutic effect of the species under study. Fifty-two Wistar rats were used, and diabetes mellitus was induced by streptozotocin (40mg/kg i.p.). The groups were divided into 5: GC (control group animals), DM (animals with experimental diabetes), EX (non-diabetic animals treated with S. tuberosa extract), DMEX (animals with experimental diabetes treated with S. tuberosa extract ) and DMIN (animals with experimental diabetes treated with insulin). S. tuberosa extract (500 mg/kg, p.o.) and NPH insulin (10UI s.c.) were administered daily for 30 days after the onset of diabetes mellitus. The parameters analyzed showed that there was an increase in water intake, feed consumption and urinary volume, with weight loss in diabetic animals, a significant decrease in AST (aspartate aminotransferase) in the group treated with the extract, morphology and morphometry of the pancreas with considerable damage. representative samples showing atrophy and vacuoles in animals with DM and improvement in animals treated with insulin and extract. In the evaluation of liver morphology, there was an improvement in glycogen deposition in both extract and insulin treatments. In the evaluation of reactive oxygen species, it was observed that DM increased the immunofluorescence of this parameter, as well as the SOD enzyme by immunohistochemistry, however the extract was unable to reverse it. Given these results, it can be concluded that the extract reduced the histopathological and morphometric changes in liver and pancreatic tissue, even without managing to alleviate hyperglycemia. Investigating this plant will contribute to a better understanding of the complex pathophysiology of DM1 and will encourage research into new therapeutic or complementary alternatives based on medicinal plants from the rich Brazilian flora.
8	QUEZIA OLIVEIRA CHAVES MORPHOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF THE CORONARY ARTERIES AND MYOCARDIAL BRIDGES IN A POPULATION FROM RIO GRANDE DO NORTE: A CADAVERIC STUDY Advisor : JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE COMMITTEE MEMBERS : JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR ANDRE LUIZ SILVA DAVIM Data: Jun 17, 2024 Show Abstract Myocardial bridge (MB) is the name given to the partial tunneling of vessels that irrigate the heart, that is, myocardial fibers overlap these vessels for a variable length. In most cases, this condition is asymptomatic and has a good prognosis, but it can also be associated with various clinical pathological scenarios and even sudden death. Hence, these variations' characterizations are clinically and surgically relevant to support professional care practices. The main goal of this research was to count and measure the MB of human hearts in a population from Rio Grande do Norte. 86 out of 169 hearts analyzed presented PM (50.89%) with a total of 101 PM. Of the 101 PM, 91 were in the anterior interventricular artery (90.10%), 9 in the posterior interventricular artery (8.9%), and 1 in the right coronary artery (0.99%). 12 hearts (12.79%) had more than one MB. Along with the MB incidence and morphometric study, we also measured the coronary and interventricular arteries. The right coronary artery measured an average of 123.59±2.88 mm; the left coronary artery measured an average of 12.11±0.34 mm; The anterior interventricular artery measured an average of 108.65±1.88 mm; and the posterior interventricular artery measured an average of 55.27±1.35 mm. The prevalence of MB seen in the current study is above the world average, although the higher incidence in the anterior interventricular artery is under the literature. Similar studies carried out in populations from nearby states also point to a lower prevalence of MB. Although MB has a benign prognosis, its repercussions may be associated with myocardial ischemia, ventricular dysfunction, and sudden death. Therefore, we emphasize the importance of the current investigation and further research that helps to outline a better epidemiological profile of this abnormality.
9	EDUARDO LÚCIO PRIMO DOS SANTOS MEDIATION OF PRACTICAL CLASSES AT THE MUSEUM: STRATEGIES TO STRENGTHEN LEARNING IN HIGH SCHOOL. Advisor : CHRISTINA DA SILVA CAMILLO COMMITTEE MEMBERS : CHRISTINA DA SILVA CAMILLO SIMONE ALMEIDA GAVILAN RENATA SWANY SOARES DO NASCIMENTO Monique Danyelle Emiliano Batista Paiva Data: Jul 9, 2024 Show Abstract Seeking appropriate methods to stimulate the cognitive and live experiences in teaching Science and Biology in non-formal teaching environments can perhaps corroborate the fixation of content and improvements in student learning. In this context, the present work was formulated with the aim of evaluating how the UFRN Museum of Morphological Sciences (MCM) can contribute to the learning of high school students about Human Morphology through a practical class. This museum space, here also recognized as a non-formal educational space, has a vast collection of formolized, taxidermied and also plastinated pieces, arranged in three exhibition rooms: Human Morphology, Marine Fauna and Animal Biodiversity, and has the presence of monitors capable of leading visitors on a fascinating journey of knowledge. Thus, 63 (sixty-three) students from 6 (six) classes of the 3rd year of high school at the Edgar Barbosa State School, located in the city of Natal/RN, participated in the research. Initially, students' prior knowledge was assessed through questionnaire 1, which also served as a guiding element for the preparation of the theoretical class. In the second moment, the biology teacher of the classes taught a theoretical lesson in the classroom on the Morphology of the Human Respiratory System, and after 24 hours the students answered questionnaire 2 containing 10 (ten) multiple choice questions, referring to the subject studied. . In the third moment, the students participated in a practical class in the MCM auditorium also on the Morphology of the Human Respiratory System, this time being taught by the museum's monitors. At MCM, students were separated into groups and then taken to a stand, organized with various anatomical pieces (synthetic, formaldehyde and/or plastinated), in which they received information passed on by the monitor about a region of the respiratory system, having access to vision and/or touch of available parts. After 24 hours of the practical class, students responded to questionnaire 3, identical to the previous one, aiming to quantify and compare the results between these two moments. There was a statistically significant difference between the answers to questionnaires 2 and 1, 3 and 1 and no difference between the answers obtained in questionnaires 3 and 2. Thus, we understand that the MCM can contribute to strengthening learning for high school students, showing- important for the school community, as a non-formal teaching space.
10	ANNE KAROLLINE RANGEL REBOUÇAS PREVALENCE OF THE CORONARY DOMINANCE PATTERN IN A POPULATION OF RIO GRANDE DO NORTE: A CADAVERIC AND IMAGINATIONAL STUDY Advisor : JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE COMMITTEE MEMBERS : JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE BENTO JOAO DA GRACA AZEVEDO ABREU EULAMPIO JOSE DA SILVA NETO Data: Aug 2, 2024 Show Abstract Cardiac blood supply is carried out heterogeneously by the right and left coronary arteries. The anatomical distribution of these arteries and their branches determine what has been called coronary dominance, and is directly linked to the physiological arrangement. Schlessinger (1940) introduced the concept of coronary dominance and classified hearts as right, left, or balanced dominance depending on the position of the coronary arteries and their branches in relation to the crux cordis, on the diaphragmatic face of the heart [SCHLESINGER, M. J. Relation of the anatomical pattern to pathologic conditions of the coronary arteries. Arch. Pathol., 30: 403-415, 1940]. However, Falci Jr and co-workers (1994) proposed an alteration in this concept aiming to approximate the anatomical and physiological dominance [FALCI JUNIOR, R. et al. Anatomia das arterias coronarias. Rev. Med., 72(1):21-24, 1994]. The determination of the dominant pattern is correlated with heart diseases, with the left having the greatest range of associated diseases. The present study aimed to verify coronary dominance in human hearts from a population in Rio Grande do Norte. For this, 170 hearts from adult cadavers fixed in 10% formaldehyde from the Human Anatomy Laboratory of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte were dissected, had their coronaries exposed, and were classified as right, balanced, or left dominance, following the criteria of the aforementioned authors. In the second stage, the study will include the analysis and determination of the coronary pattern in vivo coronary angiography images. According to Schlessinger's (1940) criteria, our cadaver data show 73.5% of hearts with right dominance, 19.5% balanced dominance, and 7% left dominance. According to Falci Jr and co-workers's criteria (1994), our data show 50.6% of right dominance, 36.5% of balanced dominance, and 12.9% of left dominance. In both cases right dominance is predominant. Therefore, it is primarily understood that the regional population tends to have a lower risk of heart disease. However, the diversity of criteria adopted by each author can interfere with the research results, which reinforces the importance of a single criterion.
11	LUCAS ALEXANDRE ARAÚJO LINS ANALYSIS OF THE IMPACTS OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON MOTIVATION, PERCEPTION OF THE EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT, COPING, AND MENTAL HEALTH OF HUMAN ANATOMY STUDENTS IN THE PHARMACY PROGRAM. Advisor : NAIANNE KELLY CLEBIS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : FIVIA DE ARAUJO LOPES FRANCISCO WILSON NOGUEIRA HOLANDA JÚNIOR NAIANNE KELLY CLEBIS ROVENA CLARA GALVAO JANUARIO ENGELBERTH Data: Aug 22, 2024 Show Abstract In March 2020, with the official declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic by the WHO, both theoretical and practical classes, such as those in human anatomy, were transitioned to a remote format. This shift deprived students of personal interaction, immediate feedback from instructors, and the rich exchange of ideas fostered by in-person classes. To mitigate the impacts of the pandemic and the abrupt technological transition, it became essential to adopt various methodologies, including synchronous classes, video lectures, forums, and continuous student monitoring by course assistants, with activities designed to stimulate students and facilitate their understanding of human anatomy. In this context, this research aimed to evaluate the learning process of students enrolled in the MOR-0048 Human Anatomy course for the Pharmacy program at DMOR/UFRN during the academic periods of 2021.1, 2021.2, and 2022.1, across both morning and evening sessions, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, considering the various factors involved in this process. Data were collected through questionnaires administered to students enrolled in the course, totaling 227 students distributed among the remote (20.56%), hybrid (41.12%), and in-person (38.32%) teaching formats. When examining motivation levels, it was observed that the hybrid format produced superior results compared to in-person classes, while the remote format was statistically similar to the hybrid format in various aspects. However, the in-person format was associated with a decline in motivational levels compared to the other two formats, a trend significantly influenced by the adverse conditions of returning to in-person classes. This finding underscores the perception of the educational environment as a critical factor in students' relationship with the course and the teaching process as a whole. This correlation was further supported when evaluating behaviors adopted to prevent contagion, indicating that these social and personal practices remained prevalent among the groups, highlighting the enduring impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on students' daily lives. Additionally, the data pointed to distinct levels of coping strategy usage, particularly among the in-person cohorts, once again indicating that the return to in-person teaching posed a potential risk for students and that the teaching-learning process could be influenced by these factors, especially due to their repercussions on students' mental health, affecting levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. In conclusion, the teaching-learning process is significantly influenced by both the perception of the educational environment and the level of motivation, which are critical factors in students' relationship with the course and its overall impact on their academic journey. The coping strategies adopted by students were closely related to the transition from hybrid to in-person teaching, acting as a stress intensifier, suggesting the need for targeted psychological support for students to mitigate the negative impacts on mental health and ensure the healthy maintenance of the teaching-learning process. This consideration should account not only for content delivery methods but also for the broader context in which the student is immersed.
12	LORENA NOBRE CORTEZ Oxidative stress and the development of the auditory cortex in rats model of autism: effect of Lidibia Ferrea on the formation of perineuronal net Advisor : RENATA FIGUEIREDO ANOMAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS : FABIANA SANTANA KRAGELUND JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE RENATA FIGUEIREDO ANOMAL Data: Oct 28, 2024 Show Abstract The critical period is a postnatal time in which cortical development is highly susceptible to plasticity induced by environmental sensory stimuli. The events that occur during the opening and closing of the critical period then have important impacts on the formation of cortical sensory processing maps, and also on sensory perception in adult life. It has been described in the literature that the opening of the critical period of postnatal development is characterized by the beginning of maturation of parvalbumin-positive (PV+) interneurons in the sensory cortex. This maturation begins when components of the extracellular matrix begin to surround PV+ interneurons, forming perineuronal networks that stabilize the synapses of these neurons, reduce plasticity dependent on sensory experience and protect PV+ cells from oxidative stress. Currently, it is suggested that the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) involves changes in PV+ cells and perineuronal networks due to increased oxidative stress, which would result from modifications in the local conditions necessary to initiate and close the critical period of sensory cortical areas. ASD, in turn, is a neurodevelopmental disorder clinically characterized by communication deficits, lack of social interaction and repetitive behaviors with restricted interest. This research monograph suggests that auditory perception deficits originating in the primary auditory cortex (A1) in individuals with ASD may be related to failures in the opening or closing of the critical period for the spectral development of A1, as a consequence of oxidative stress of the cells PV+ and impairment in the development of the perineuronal net. Therefore, it will describe the effects of intraperitoneal administration of Libidia Ferrea extract, during the critical period of A1 spectral development, on the development of perineuronal.
13	PAULO RICARDO FRANÇA DA SILVA RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FIXATION TIME AND THE PRESENCE OF RETRACTION ARTIFACTS SIMULATING LYMPHOVASCULAR INVASION IN MALIGNANT NEOPLASMS Advisor : CHRISTINA DA SILVA CAMILLO COMMITTEE MEMBERS : CHRISTINA DA SILVA CAMILLO PEDRO PAULO DE ANDRADE SANTOS SERGIO ADRIANE BEZERRA DE MOURA FABIANE FERREIRA MARTINS Data: Nov 29, 2024 Show Abstract Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide and represents a major challenge for global public health. As important as understanding the molecular and biological mechanisms underlying the development and progression of tumors is assertive diagnosis for effective disease management, directly impacting therapeutic choices, prognosis and patients' quality of life. Lymphovascular invasion (LVI) is an important prognostic marker in the staging of malignant tumors, playing a critical role in assessing the aggressiveness and metastatic potential of cancer. The presence of tumor cells within lymphatic or blood vessels is considered a high-risk indicator for metastatic dissemination, directly influencing therapeutic decisions, such as the need for more intensive adjuvant treatments, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and targeted therapies. Histological analysis of tumors using the paraffin technique with H&E staining is still the most widely used in pathology departments. Fixation is a critical step in the proper preparation of these samples to ensure the preservation of tissue morphology and consequent diagnostic accuracy, a condition that also depends on the technical ability and experience of the pathologist who will be evaluating them. This study investigates the impact of 6-, 48- and 72-hour formaldehyde chemical fixation times on breast, colonic and uterine tumor tissues, with the aim of identifying whether there is any interference in pathologists' interpretation in differentiating lymphovascular invasion from retraction artifacts during the histopathological evaluation of tumors. After evaluation by 3 pathologists, the results indicate that fixation for 6 hours showed a lower percentage of doubts in differentiating between retraction artifacts and lymphovascular invasions, which may indicate a fixation time with better potential for structural tissue preservation. Fixation at 48 and 72 hours showed an increase of more than 50% in confusion when evaluating these artifacts with lymphovascular invasions.

2023

	Dissertations
1	IVANA LORENA DE OLIVEIRA NICÁCIO BODY DONATION PROGRAM AT THE FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF RIO GRANDE DO NORTE: DONOR PROFILE ANALYSIS AND PERSPECTIVES Advisor : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS : TAINÁ DE ABREU BÁRBARA DE LIMA LUCAS EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR Data: Feb 10, 2023 Show Abstract Human anatomy is an essential academic subject for the formation and qualification of students in health courses. Considered as the first patient of these students, the cadaver plays a fundamental role in the development of the future professional. Due to the increase in the number of medical institutions and the constant concern with the ethical issues related to the use of bodies in the academic field, Body Donation Programs (BDP) have been emerging in a worldwide trend as the main way to acquire bodies for anatomical studies. Although the PDC was created to meet the demand for cadavers needed for teaching human anatomy, this number is still insufficient. Knowing that the donation of bodies is a totally individual, altruistic and voluntary act, understanding the profile of those who donate their own bodies for teaching is important to develop strategies to encourage new donors to join the PDC. Thus, this study aimed to characterize the PDC of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN) regarding the profile of the majority donor, as well as to understand the main motivations that have influenced donors over the 40 years of existence of the Program. Data from UFRN's Declarations of Donation and Socioeconomic Forms for Body Donation were used to create a database with categorical and continuous variables about the donors' profile. The main categories analyzed were sex, age, education, religious influence, and the main motivation for body donation. The results, obtained through descriptive statistical analysis, reveal that the PDC of UFRN currently has 249 registered volunteers from the year 1980 to the year 2021. The data analysis shows that 53% of the volunteers are female (n = 131) while only 47% are male (n = 118). Regarding the age range of the donors, although the mean age is 56.6 years, the most representative age range among the volunteers was 58 to 67 years for both genders. The results also show that most of the donors had higher education level (n = 46) and were catholic (n = 33). The main motivations reported by the PDC volunteers at UFRN were related to contributing to the advancement of education and gratitude to science, which suggests altruistic motivational aspects in relation to society as a whole. Taken together, these data lead to the conclusion that the general profile of the majority donor of the UFRN PDC is female, between 58 and 67 years old, with higher education, and catholic. Our findings also signal a discrete relationship between higher levels of education and higher probabilities of individuals becoming body donors. Finally, we observed a considerable increase in the entry of volunteers to the PDC of UFRN in its fourth and last decade of existence (2010 to 2019) and that this increase in donors is due, at least in part, to the increase in advertising campaigns for greater visibility of the Program.
2	CARINA IONÁ DE OLIVEIRA TORRES Development of an Animal Model of Depression for the Study of Fast-Acting Antidepressants Advisor : ELAINE CRISTINA GAVIOLI COMMITTEE MEMBERS : ELAINE CRISTINA GAVIOLI VANESSA DE PAULA SOARES RACHETTI VICTOR ANASTÁCIO DUARTE HOLANDA Data: Mar 29, 2023 Show Abstract Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is characterized as one of the most prevalent and disabling mental disorders in the world. The pharmacological treatment of depression has important limitations, such as low efficacy, several side effects and the delay in the onset of therapeutic effects, thus contributing to poor adherence to pharmacotherapy. In this context, the identification of fast-acting antidepressant drugs can contribute to improving the life quality of depressive patients. Given the ethical and practical limitations linked to clinical studies, animal models are useful tools to investigate innovative drugs. However, there are not still available animal models of depression sensitive to detect fast-acting antidepressants, and the development of an animal model with this profile could represent a substantial advance in the investigation of biological bases and treatment of MDD. To this aim, the present project evaluated chronic exposure to oral glucocorticoids as an animal model to identify fast-acting antidepressants. Male Swiss mice were submitted to pilot tests to select the glucocorticoid to be used in sequence and the appropriate experimental conditions for carrying out the behavioral tests. In a second step, mice were orally exposed for at least 28 uninterrupted days to mineral water (control) or hydrocortisone dissolved in water (0.1 and 0.033 mg/ml). Throughout the exposure period, Sucrose Preference Test, Open Field, Murble Buring, Tail Suspension, Object Recognition, Social Interaction and Forced Swimming Test were performed to investigate behaviors related to depression, anxiety, memory and locomotion. On the 21st day, mice treated with hydrocortisone were divided into groups that received, intraperitoneally, ketamine (10 and 100 mg/kg) or vehicle. Our findings suggested that hydrocortisone 0.1 mg/ml induced depression- and anxiety-related behaviors, hyperlocomotion, and significant weight loss and deaths. At a lower dose (0.033 mg/kg), hydrocortisone evoked anxiogenic effects in the first days of exposure, while anhedonic behavior appeared after 2 weeks oral glucocorticoid ingestion. Despite the small sample size, acute treatment with ketamine (depending on the dose), in turn, tended to attenuate hydrocortisone (0.033 mg/ml)-induced anhedonia, anxiogenic-like and hyperlocomotor effects, especially after 4 days of administration. Finally, the data presented herein indicate that the proposed model of repeated exposure to oral hydrocortisone was able to mimic the behavioral (symptomatic) changes presented by patients with MDD, thus presenting good face validity.
3	MAURO BEZERRA MONTELLO Definition of instructional objectives of the revised Bloom's taxonomy in the context of human anatomy. Advisor : BENTO JOAO DA GRACA AZEVEDO ABREU COMMITTEE MEMBERS : AIRTON ARAÚJO DE SOUZA JÚNIOR BENTO JOAO DA GRACA AZEVEDO ABREU GILBERTO SANTOS CERQUEIRA Data: Jun 6, 2023 Show Abstract INTRODUCTION: Human Anatomy has been one of the fundamental pillars in medical education for hundreds of years. In fact, many argue that it has withstood the test of time, which is considered the most demanding pedagogical test. Considering the development of new methodologies and the adaptation of existing ones, the use of tools that facilitate lesson structuring becomes necessary, thereby maximizing the learning capacity. One tool that can aid in this purpose is Bloom's Taxonomy, which, in its revised version, employs a two-dimensional table that guides the use of verbs in defining educational objectives to be applied in the construction of curriculum components and lesson plans. OBJECTIVE: To construct a table describing the dimensions of cognition and knowledge in Bloom's taxonomy that will be applied in the development of lesson plans in the curriculum component of Human Anatomy. METHODOLOGY: The proposal will be built upon the established two-dimensional Bloom's table, with the allocation of verbs that are applicable to the context of Human Anatomy. The development of the plans considers the acquisition of theoretical-practical knowledge and skills organized into categories of increasing complexity. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The application of the taxonomy of instructional objectives provides a foundation for evaluating students' performance and acquiring competencies and skills in the field of Human Anatomy at progressively higher levels of complexity. CONCLUSION: The revised Bloom's taxonomy proves to be an efficient tool for the development of educational objectives and can be applied in the context of anatomy for both traditional and active methodologies.
4	EVERTON LIRA FAÇANHA EFFECTS OF HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY ON THE TESTICLES OF RATS WITH DIABETES INDUCED FOR STREPTOZTOCIN Advisor : NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : BENTO JOAO DA GRACA AZEVEDO ABREU FLAVIO SANTOS DA SILVA NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS Data: Jun 29, 2023 Show Abstract Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is characterized as a metabolic and chronic disorder related to problems in the production, secretion and/or use of insulin. There are several complications evidenced in diabetic individuals, from neuropathies, heart diseases, retinopathies, among many OHBers, including infertility. Male individuals living with DM present alterations in their reproductive system, such as disturbances in spermatogenesis, reductions in testosterone levels, increased apoptosis of spermatogonia and spermatocytes, reduction in the number and mobility of spermatozoa and alterations in the distribution of Leydig cells. Among the techniques that can prevent or mitigate the various damages caused by DM in the individual, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HTO) is considered one of the most promising. In this technique, 100% oxygen at pressures greater than sea level or an absolute atmosphere (ATA) plays an influencing role in oxidative metabolism enabling the reduction mainly of edema and inflammatory processes, offering benefits related to maintenance and/or tissue repair as in the case of wound healing. This study aims to analyze the action of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in preventing testicular morphological changes in diabetic rats induced by streptozotocin. Twenty-eight male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) (60 days old), weighing 220-280g were divided into four groups: C (normoglycemic animals), n=7; C+OHB (normoglycemic animals submitted to HBOT), n= 7; DM (diabetic animals) n= 7; DM+OHB (diabetic animals submitted to HBOT), n=7. DM was induced by streptozotocin (40 mg/kg intraperitoneally) and treatment with HBOT was carried out for six weeks, on continuous days. After treatment the animals were weighed and euthanized and had the testicles collected and weighed. In the collected testes, histological analysis of tissue integrity was performed on slides stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin, as well as morphometric analysis on slides stained with toluidine blue, and immunohistochemistry with immunostaining for testosterone receptors. The treatment was not able to reduce the glycemia of the animals nor did it positively influence the biometric parameters. As for the morphometric parameters, the treatment was not able to mitigate the morphological changes in the testicular tissue, there was no significant differences between the DM and DM+HBOT groups in relation to epithelium height, seminiferous tubule diameter and lumen diameter. In the diabetic groups, there was less availability of testosterone receptors and HBOT treatment possibly did not promote an effect in reducing the loss of these receptors. The results showed us that HBO seems to interfere with the cell cycle of the germ line, causing a possible deleterious effect in relation to the height of the seminiferous epithelium, and consequently the diameter of the lumen.
5	GABRIEL HENRIQUE SANTANA DA SILVA TEACHING HUMAN MORPHOLOGY AND ACCESSIBLE TOOLS FOR STUDENTS WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENT: A SCOPE REVIEW AND DISCOURSE ANALYSIS Advisor : CHRISTINA DA SILVA CAMILLO COMMITTEE MEMBERS : CHRISTINA DA SILVA CAMILLO GESSICA FABIELY FONSECA FABIANE FERREIRA MARTINS Data: Sep 5, 2023 Show Abstract Visually impaired people are those with low vision or blindness. Before entering higher education, these students face a number of barriers, often having to adapt to teaching methodologies, going against a set of laws that make it possible for them to enter and ensure that these students are monitored throughout their education. In the area of health, the Morphological Sciences are of great importance for students' initial training, serving as the basis for later components. Anatomy, Histology and Embryology are components of Morphological Sciences, whose methodological activities are based on visual stimulation, with anatomical atlases, cadaveric specimens, histological images, microscopes, embryonic diagrams and others. These tools end up segregating people with visual impairments. Therefore, this research aimed to analyze epistemological studies and discourses in the field of teaching human morphology, in order to detect accessible teaching tools for visually impaired students. This dissertation has two chapters identifying teaching tools and the process of inclusion and accessibility. Chapter 1 consists of a scoping review, which through word combinations allowed 17 studies to be mapped in the main research databases, making it possible to identify 16 tools, sensory and technological, that favored accessibility in the teaching of Morphological Sciences. Chapter 2 surveys and evaluates the teaching tools used in the Department of Morphology at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, based on an analysis of the discourse of 7 students with low vision or blindness from different health courses. The participants, who were assisted by the institution's Inclusion and Accessibility Department, studied compulsory curricular components in the area of morphology, such as Anatomy, Embryology and Histology. The research made it possible to assess whether or not the tools used by students with VI were validated during the empirical study. In addition, it was possible to identify the poor preparation of teachers and the lack of flexibility with visually impaired students in the process of training and development of curricular components, from the students' point of view.
6	LÍLIAN ANDRADE CARLOS DE MENDONÇA BATISTA NEUROPROTECTIVE ACTION OF AYAHUASCA ON THE PREFRONTAL CORTEX OF SAGUIS (Callithrix jacchus) INDUCED INTO A DEPRESSIVE STATE Advisor : FERNANDO VAGNER LOBO LADD COMMITTEE MEMBERS : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR FELIPE PORTO FIUZA FERNANDO VAGNER LOBO LADD Data: Dec 1, 2023 Show Abstract Major depressive disorder can present as a single or recurrent episode, lasting days, with different symptoms influencing everyday relationships. One of the main causes of this disorder is chronic stress, and the biological response to these stressors can cause dysregulation in the human response. This diversity in the possible causes of depression leads to other focuses of studies, and our group aims to identify the neuroprotective competence of Ayahuasca on the brain of marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) subjected to an induced chronic stress protocol. The results were evaluated through stereology applied to histological sections. 4 males and 4 females were used, allocated into 3 groups, 02 in the family group (GF), 02 in the isolated group (GI) and 04 in the treated group (GT), all selected randomly. We selected only specimens in juvenile phase I and II equivalent to 7 to 9 months of age. The behavioral record was collected using the continuous focal sampling method, collecting frequency and/or duration of behaviors. A fraction (1/6) of the sections obtained were subjected to histological staining with Nissl techniques, using thionine as dye. To estimate the morphoquantitative parameters, stereology, a three-dimensional histological quantification technique, was used. Among the behaviors, we did not find significant differences between the groups in the experimental phase, except in food intake (H(2) = 6.00, p = 0.050). Regarding the total volume of the prefrontal cortex (PFC), no significant difference was found between groups (H(2) = 3.00, p = 0.223). With regard to neuronal density, it visually appeared to be more intense in GF and GT compared to GI in the three selected areas of the prefrontal cortex. Regarding the mean neuronal volume of the medial prefrontal cortex (VN-mCPF), no significant difference was found between groups (H(2) = 4.00, p = 0.135); in the mean neuronal volume of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (VN-dlCPF), no significant difference was found between groups (H(2) = 4.50, p = 0.105); in the mean neuronal volume of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (VN-dlCPF), no significant difference was found between groups (H(2) = 4.50, p = 0.105). In this study, we observed a subtle reduction in the volume of the marmoset's prefrontal cortex when comparing the GF with the GI, which can be corroborated by some behaviors, dependent on social command, which also showed a reduction. In the mCPF and dlCPF we observed an average reduction of 25% in neuronal density when comparing the GF with the GI, whereas when comparing the GF with the GT we observed similarity in quantities. The atrophy of neurons in the prefrontal cortex is associated with depressive and anxiety disorders. This characteristic was identified in marmosets from the GI region of the three regions of the PFC (medial, dorsolateral and ventral), suggesting that it is a marker of the depressive state. These results indicate that Ayahuasca provided protection in the total volume of the cortex, as well as in the density and neuronal volume of the marmosets, in relation to the changes caused by the depressive state. Therefore, more studies are needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and determine whether ayahuasca tea has potential as a preventive intervention for depression.
7	ANDRÉ PUKEY OLIVEIRA GALVÃO Renal morphometric analysis of rats induced to hyperprolactinemia and treated with melatonin. Advisor : BENTO JOAO DA GRACA AZEVEDO ABREU COMMITTEE MEMBERS : BENTO JOAO DA GRACA AZEVEDO ABREU FABIANE FERREIRA MARTINS MANUELA FIGUEIROA LYRA DE FREITAS Data: Dec 21, 2023 Show Abstract The increase in prolactin levels causes a pathological condition called hyperprolactinemia. This condition is associated with many diseases, including chronic kidney disease (CKD), which represents the most common syndrome of pituitary hypersecretion in both men and women. On the other hand, melatonin has shown potential to prevent hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity, due to its role in eliminating free radicals. Based on this, the aim of this study was to analyze the kidney morphology of rats induced to hyperprolactinemia and treated with melatonin. The study used 48 male rats, divided into two treatment periods: 30 and 60 days, each treatment group was subdivided into three groups: Control, DOMP (rats induced to hyperprolactinemia) and DOMP+MEL (rats induced to hyperprolactinemia and treated with melatonin). The melatonin treatment was 200μg/100g, subcutaneously (SC). Hyperprolactinemia was induced with a dose of 4mg/kg of domperidone, SC. The results of the renal histomorphometric analysis of the control and treated animals for the 30-day period showed that there was no significant difference in the following variables: glomerular area, glomerular capsule area, subcapsular area, glomerular diameter, renal weight and rat weight. However, significant differences were observed between the control and DOMP+MEL groups in the somatic renal index variable. In the histopathological findings, animals treated with DOMP showed greater glomerular damage compared to the other groups, with the greatest damage observed in the group treated for 30 days. Additionally, the DOMP group was the only group to present hemorrhage in the renal parenchyma. All groups presented congested vessels, with the highest incidence observed in the treated groups. The treated groups also presented renal tubular edema. Among the damages affecting the renal tissue, tubular necrosis and glomerular atrophy were also observed. Based on the previous results obtained, it can be concluded that hyperprolactinemia causes damage to the renal parenchyma, and melatonin can act to reduce these damages, and consequently promote tissue regeneration.

2022

	Dissertations
1	SÓSTENES SILVA DE OLIVEIRA Hypotheses of intelligence and the mental rotation task: correlations between parietal and frontal cortex activation and intelligence scores Advisor : RENATA FIGUEIREDO ANOMAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS : ANTONIO PEREIRA JUNIOR MARICELE NASCIMENTO BARBOSA RENATA FIGUEIREDO ANOMAL Data: Mar 22, 2022 Show Abstract The hypothesis of neural efficiency suggests a more efficient use of the cortex in intelligent subjects performing cognitive tasks. This hypothesis is supported by electroencephalographic data, which shows higher event-related spectral perturbation of alpha band (alpha ERSP) in individuals with higher intelligence scores, reflecting alpha synchronization and lower cortical activation. However, the inhibition-timing hypothesis suggests that high or low amplitudes of ERSP could occur simultaneously in different or in the same cortical areas, in accordance with the task demand and complexity. The main objective of the present study was to identify correlations between alpha ERSP, intelligence quotient scores and behavioral data from adolescents with high intellectual abilities and with average intelligence during the mental rotation task. All procedures were approved by the Research Ethics Committee of UFRN. Volunteers recruited into the high abilities group (N = 15) were adolescents (13-21 years) with a total intelligence quotient (IQ) score equal to or above 129. The control group (N = 15) was age-matched and had a total IQ score between 80 and 128. Participants in both groups performed the classic Shepard-Metzler’s mental rotation task, while having their electroencephalogram recorded. A multiple linear regression was performed to analyze whether the alpha ERSP recorded by the parietal and frontal electrodes was predicted by the total IQ scores, its subscores and the behavioral data. Our results show that response accuracy has an inverse correlation with alpha ERSP, and that there is also an inverse correlation between alpha ERSP with total IQ and working memory scores. We observed that the lesser the alpha ERSP value over the parietal cortex, the greater the total IQ, working memory score and accuracy. Working memory scores also predict alpha ERSP values over parietal cortex. These correlations are not observed during the pretest interval before stimuli presentation. Considering that accuracy and Wechsler’s intelligence scale scores are negatively correlated with alpha ERSP during the mental rotation task, reflecting lesser synchronization and greater cortical activation in individuals presenting higher intelligence scores, our data support the timing-inhibition hypothesis.
2	ERICH FERNANDO ESPINELO COSTA MORPHOLOGY OF OVARIES, UTERINE TUBES AND UTERUS IN Pteronotus gymnonotus (CHIROPTERA: MORMOOPIDAE) Advisor : DANIELLE BARBOSA MORAIS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : DANIELLE BARBOSA MORAIS FERNANDA CAROLINA RIBEIRO DIAS MARCELA DOS SANTOS MAGALHAES Data: Apr 6, 2022 Show Abstract The present study aimed to characterize the ovarian, tubal and uterine morphology in the insectivorous bat Pteronotus gymnonotus, in specimens collected in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. After euthanasia, these organs were histologically processed for inclusion in historesin for morphological and morphometric analysis under light microscopy. The morphological characterization of the ovaries was based on the development of the oocyte and follicle growth, while the fallopian tubes were characterized as to their anatomy and division of their parts into: infundibulum, ampulla and isthmus, where the height of the tubal epithelium and muscle layer thickness. The analysis of the uterus was based on the formation and thickness of its three layers: endometrium, myometrium and perimetrium. Morphometric analyzes were performed by capturing images of histological slides at different magnifications. The variables were submitted to descriptive statistical analysis, with data expressed as mean and standard deviation. It was observed that the ovaries are bilateral and oval, presenting a squamous to simple cubic epithelium, forming the germinal epithelium, a certain stratification regarding the location of the ovarian follicles, where most of the primordial follicles were arranged in the peripheral region of the ovary, but being possible to identify many follicles in various stages of maturation in the central region; the uterus is bicornuate and the uterine and uterine tube layers observed follow the same pattern as in other eutherian mammals. This information is important to allow comparisons between species, aiming at the knowledge about reproductive morphology in mammals, especially those belonging to the order Chiroptera. Therefore, this research is essential to support conservation measures that protect their natural populations, in an effort to maintain ecological balance.

2021

	Dissertations
1	ANDRÉ FELIPE MORAIS DE LIMA STEREOLOGICAL AND HISTOPATHOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF PROLEY LIVER IN MICE SUBMITTED TO ETHANOL DURING PRE AND POST-CHRISTMAS PERIODS. Advisor : CHRISTINA DA SILVA CAMILLO COMMITTEE MEMBERS : CHRISTINA DA SILVA CAMILLO FRANCISCO GILBERTO OLIVEIRA SERGIO ADRIANE BEZERRA DE MOURA Data: Jun 1, 2021 Show Abstract The initial effects of alcohol on the body are well-being and pleasure, however the continued use causes dependence and deleterious effects on organs that are important for life, especially in the female body. We can observe in the literature that the alcohol consumed by women during pregnancy and / or breastfeeding passes into the organism of the offspring, bringing negative effects to the fetal and baby development, being one of the main known teratogenic agents. Excessive and prolonged exposure to alcohol in the body of adult individuals affects liver structure and function causing changes in Alcoholic Liver Disease (ADL). In view of the importance of the liver for the functioning of the organs, it is important to observe and describe whether exposure to alcohol in pregnancy and / or lactation can cause damage to the liver of the offspring, similar to ADL. Thus, the objective of this work is, through histopathological and stereological analyzes, the morphology of the liver of mice generated under the effect of ethanol during pregnancy and / or lactation. For this, 23 young male and female mice (Mus muscullus) were separated into 4 groups: The Control Group (CG) (n=6): offspring from mothers who did not receive alcohol during pregnancy and lactation; Gestation Group (GEtG) (n=5): offspring from mothers who received 15% alcohol only during pregnancy; Lactation group (GEtL) (n=6): offspring from mothers who received 15% alcohol only during lactation; and Gestation + lactation group (GEtGL) (n=6): offspring from mothers who received alcohol during the entire period of pregnancy and lactation. After 34 to 36 days of life, the animals were weighed and euthanized, the liver removed and preserved for further processing and histological analysis. The histopathological diagnosis was obtained through the qualitative description of the tissues and semi-quantitative scores. Stereological analyzes were performed to obtain the volume of the figure using the Cavaliere method. The data obtained were submitted to analysis by ANOVA and post hoc by GABRIEL, with a significance level of 5% (p <0.05). There was a reduction in body weight at weaning of the animals of the GEtL and GEtGL group when compared to the other groups, there was also a decrease in the final body weight and liver weight of the GEtL group when compared to the GEtG. All groups treated with alcohol had tissue damage characteristic of alcoholic liver disease, such as: presence of micro and macro vesicular steatosis, edematous degeneration and areas suggestive of necrosis. According to the semi-quantitative analyzes, the GetGL group showed more liver damage when compared to the other groups. The exposure of alcohol during the lactation phase has negative effects on the nutrition of the offspring, compromising body weight and liver, due to the fact that alcohol intervenes in the production and composition of breast milk, as well as in its consumption. Histopathological changes arise due to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species produced during alcohol metabolism, affecting the structure of hepatocytes. Thus, the exposure of alcohol in an acute form in the stages of pregnancy and / or lactation showed deleterious effects for the offspring, compromising the development and the hepatic morphophysiology.
2	RAFAEL ÂNGELO REVORÊDO COLLISION OF MIGRATORY SEABIRD ON POWER LINE IN NORTHEASTERN BRAZIL: SPACE-TIME EVALUATION AND DESCRIPTION OF GONADAL HISTOLOGY FOR CONSERVATION PURPOSES Advisor : SIMONE ALMEIDA GAVILAN COMMITTEE MEMBERS : SIMONE ALMEIDA GAVILAN RENATA SWANY SOARES DO NASCIMENTO JOÃO PAULO TAVARES DAMASCENO Data: Dec 3, 2021 Show Abstract Among the anthropogenic impacts suffered by birds, collisions of these animals on built structures, especially on power lines, are increasingly frequent and alarming. However, studies on this topic are still recent and scarce, especially in South America and Brazil. Migratory birds are animals that generally stand out in this type of impact, among which are the marine species Sterna dougallii (ROST) and Sterna hirundo (COTE) that migrate to the South American coast during the boreal winter and can be found on the coast from the Rio Grande do Norte (RN). As they are birds with a well-defined reproductive seasonality, their gonads undergo periodic changes, but little is known about these dynamics at the histological level, as well as about the general characteristics of gonadal histology. Representatives of COTE and ROST began to be found by the beach monitoring teams of the Project Cetaceans of Costa Branca (PCCB-UERN), near a power distribution line, with signs of collision, on a beach on the coast of RN between the years 2010 and 2020. Tissue samples from different organs of animals that died were stored in the biological sample bank of the the PCCB-UERN. In view of this series, this research sought to characterize the events of bird collisions on a power line in the city of Galinhos/RN, in view of environmental changes associated with the construction of a wind farm, as well as to describe the morphology of the gonads and the gonadal stage of individuals involved in the problem. Collision data were collected between 2010 and 2020 daily and uninterrupted by monitoring the beach stretch where the power distribution line is located. The birds found had their coordinates recorded and if they were alive, they were sent to the PCCB-UERN Marine Fauna Rehabilitation Center. For the analysis of reproductive biology, the gonads of 62 birds that died were used, fixed in 10% formalin and submitted to laboratory routine for the preparation of histological slides. This research indicated that there was a significant increase in the frequency of birds colliding with the power distribution line, coinciding with the installation of a wind farm on a neighboring beach and that this remained even after the installation of markers on part of the wires of the line. Histological analysis of the gonads revealed a pattern corresponding to that of other species, the ovaries showed a cortex region with follicles at different stages of maturation and also a very pronounced medullary region; the testes showed seminiferous tubules with narrowed lumens and seminiferous epithelium without sperm production, as well as well-developed interstitial tissue. Other researches show that wind farms can cause displacement on bird flight routes, which may indicate a possible influence of the facility on the increase in collisions; other researches claim that fixed spiral markers (the type installed in the line of this study) have a lesser mitigating effect when compared to those with moving parts. In short, this research points out bird collision events on power lines that have never before been registered in RN due to lack of monitoring and indicate the possible influence of a wind farm in this process.
3	ANNE NATHALIA DE SOUSA SILVA OXIDATIVE STRESS, INDOLEAMINE-2,3 DIOXYGENASE ACTIVITY AND BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS RELATED TO SUCROSE CONSUMPTION AND WITHDRAWAL IN RAT DIET Advisor : VANESSA DE PAULA SOARES RACHETTI COMMITTEE MEMBERS : EDILSON DANTAS DA SILVA JUNIOR JULIANA FELIX DA SILVA VANESSA DE PAULA SOARES RACHETTI Data: Dec 18, 2021 Show Abstract Sucrose is the most commonly used sugar in diets. Excessive sugar consumption is associated with liver disorders and metabolic syndrome due to sucrose metabolism. Furthermore, sucrose withdrawal has been associated with the development of mental disorders such as anxiety disorder and depressive disorder. Alterations in oxidative stress and expression of indoleamine-2,3dioxygenase (IDO), an enzyme responsible for shifting tryptophan metabolism from serotonin synthesis to the kynurenine pathway, are reported in mental disorders and metabolic syndromes. Thus, this work aims to investigate metabolic changes in oxidative stress, IDO activity and biochemical parameters related to metabolic syndrome and anxiety and depression disorders, in serum, prefrontal cortex (PFC), hippocampus and striatum of Wistar rats subjected to sucrose exposure and withdrawal. The two-bottle sucrose choice paradigm was adopted, the animals had access to one bottle of water and the other available according to the group, control (water), short-term withdrawal (unlimited 5% sucrose for 16 days and withdrawal for 3-4 days), long-term withdrawal (unlimited 5% sucrose for 16 days and withdrawal for 23-24 days) and continuous sucrose (unlimited 5% sucrose for 19-20 days). Serum biochemical parameters, IDO enzyme activity and levels of oxidative stress from protein carbonyl and lipid peroxidation in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus and striatum were analyzed. The results showed that 5% sucrose consumption is able to alter lipid metabolism, but the withdrawal for 3 days reverses changes related to triglyceride levels. The 5% sucrose consumption or withdrawal did not show significant differences in the oxidative stress parameters or the IDO enzyme activity, in the analyzed tissues, compared to the control group, although a trend of increased oxidative stress was observed in sucrose withdrawal groups. It was also possible to observe the consumption and preference of sucrose by age, pointing to adolescence as the phase of greatest consumption.

2020

	Dissertations
1	RAÍSSA TAINÁ FERNANDES LANDIM Neuronal dynamics assessment of the paraventricular hypotalamic nucleus during post-natal development in red-rumped agouti (Dasyprocta aguti - Linnaeus, 1766.). Advisor : FERNANDO VAGNER LOBO LADD COMMITTEE MEMBERS : FERNANDO VAGNER LOBO LADD JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE PAULO LEONARDO ARAÚJO DE GÓIS MORAIS Data: Mar 7, 2020 Show Abstract The hypothalamus is a central nervous system (CNS) region, composed of several nuclei responsible for maintaining homeostasis. Among many hypothalamic nuclei there is the Paraventricular nucleus (PVN), which is one of the centers responsible for the autonomic and endocrine regulation of the organism. PVN is an important pre-autonomic center that assists in the regulation of the sympathetic nervous system, acting at the regulation of several systems, including the cardiovascular system. Changes in this nucleus may be related to cardiovascular complications, such as hypertension and heart failure. Therefore, with aging, there may be changes in PVN that can trigger cardiac changes in the elderly. Thus, we analyzed the PVN of agouti (Dasyprocta agouti) in different ages in order to observe the neuronal dynamics in the nucleus during the postnatal development. For this, three-dimensional morphoquantitative analysis (stereological analysis) of the PVN was performed, based on Cavalieri’s principle, together with the volume density (Vv) analysis of the nucleus neurons based on Delesse’s principle, quantification of number of neurons by optical dissector and average neuronal volume per nucleator. These analyzes were performed in 11 male agoutis, divided into four age groups: G1- Neonate (n = 2); G2- Young (n = 2); G3- Adult (n = 3) and G5-Senile (n = 4). In the PVN of the agouti two magnocellular regions and six parvocellular regions were observed. Quantitative analysis showed that the PVN of senile animals, when compared to neonates, shows a 317% increase in total nucleus volume and 291% increase in total volume occupied by non-neuronal components. It also showed that the number of young and senile neurons, when compared with neonates, had a 114% increase. For adults, when compared with neonates, had a 109% increase. Therefore, our data indicate that PVN of senile agouti presents hypertrophy and may be associated with neuronal hyperplasia when compared to neonates.
2	DÉLIS DE OLIVEIRA FERREIRA Assessment of the toxicological and teratogenic potential of the aqueous extract of the cashew tree (Anacardium occidenale) using zebrafish (Danio rerio) as an experimental model. Advisor : DANIELLE BARBOSA MORAIS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : DANIELLE BARBOSA MORAIS SILVANA MARIA ZUCOLOTTO LANGASSNER PRISCILA FERNANDES SILVA Data: Aug 18, 2020 Show Abstract The cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale) is a vegetable native to the Northeast region of Brazil commonly used in folk medicine due to its anti-inflammatory, astringent and healing properties. However, it is also used for abortion, with no scientific evidence regarding the effects related to its use during pregnancy, with little information regarding its chemical composition in aqueous extracts. Considering that the use of plant extracts during pregnancy can cause both maternal and fetal toxicity, the aim of this study was to characterize phytochemically the chemical composition of the aqueous extract (Eaq) of A. occidentale bark tree, as well its possible toxic and teratogenic effects, using zebrafish (Danio rerio) as an experimental model. Acute toxicity tests on embryos and females of D. rerio followed the recommendations of the OECD. The plant extract was prepared and phytochemical characterization by Liquid Chromatography Coupled to Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-MS / MS), followed by tests to determine the median lethal dose (LD50) in embryos and females, behavior tests, evaluation of developmental deformations, testing for abnormalities in DNA, estimation of the fertility rate in the parents, and microscopic analysis of embryos and larvae exposed to Eaq. The results of the phytochemical characterization confirm the presence of phenolic acids, a variety of tannins, gallohexoside, catechin, epicatechin and gallic acid. The results obtained in the toxicity tests suggests a toxic effect in adult females with changes in their behavioral profile, a tendency to decrease changes in the level of DNA, with no effect of the extract on fertility. In embryos exposed at 6, 12, 24- and 48-hours post fertilization (hpf) to sublethal doses of Eaq, there were little teratogenic effects. However, it were observed deformation in the chorionic membrane and delay in hatching, indicating toxic effects of the extract. Although the specialized metabolites found in this species are related to antioxidant activity, it is known that these metabolites in excess can be toxic. However, it could be concluded that the Eaq of A. occidentale shells, in addition to showing signs of teratogenicity to zebra fish in sublethal doses, presented evidence of toxicity in higher doses, both for embryos and adult females.
3	RAQUEL MARINHO DE SOUZA CAVALCANTE MACRO AND MICROSCOPIC CHARACTERIZATION OF THE TONGUE AND ESOPHAGUS OF SEA TURTLES (TESTUDINES) Advisor : SIMONE ALMEIDA GAVILAN COMMITTEE MEMBERS : SIMONE ALMEIDA GAVILAN FERNANDO VAGNER LOBO LADD GERALDO JORGE BARBOSA DE MOURA Data: Nov 6, 2020 Show Abstract There is only a little information about macro and microscopic morphology of the gastrointestinal tract of sea turtles, considering that all species are classified under some level of threat of extinction. In this context, it can be considered that studies on the basic biology of these animals allow us to make important management decisions for conservation. There is still a shortage of information relating food habits with the internal morphology of the upper gastrointestinal tract (tongue and esophagus) of these animals. In addition, there are no studies that prove the function of the tongue in the digestion process. For this reason, the present work aims to characterize the macro and microscopic morphology of the sea turtle's tongue and esophagus, establishing comparisons between species and their eating habits. During the period from January 2018 to November 2019, were evaluated the tongue and esophagus of stranded sea turtles that died or accompanied death at the PCCB-UERN Rehabilitation Base, along the coast of RN and east coast of CE. The animals were necropsied and the organs of interest were dissected together and fixed in 10% formaldehyde. Subsequently, the photographic record, weighing and biometrics were performed and then, as the tongue was sent for histological cleavage, the esophagus was sent for the processing of the stereological technique. As a result, there are unpublished histological findings regarding the sea turtle tongue. It was observed that the dorsal surface is covered by keratinized stratified epithelium with papillae in a filiform and fungiform format. The lamina propria resulted from loose connective tissue with the presence of nerve plexuses and blood vessels. The musculature of the tongue is distributed in two orientations, longitudinal and transversal. In C. mydas, salivary glands were observed in the posterior region of the tongue. In the same region, C. caretta showed non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium with goblet cells, findings that improved the secretion of saliva and mucus by the organ. In the esophageal stereological analysis, it was observed that C. mydas species has higher volume density (Vv) and total volume (Vtot) in the muscular layer, while C. caretta species, present higher values for the mucous layer. From the findings, it can be inferred that the tongue probably assists in chemical digestion and that the esophagus presents morphological and functional differences between thetwo species.
4	GABRIELA COLOMBINI CORRÊA Morphology of cetaceans tympanic-periotic complex Advisor : SIMONE ALMEIDA GAVILAN COMMITTEE MEMBERS : MARIA MORELL FLAVIO JOSE DE LIMA SILVA SIMONE ALMEIDA GAVILAN Data: Nov 30, 2020 Show Abstract The present study aims to describe the morphology of the tympanic-periotic bone complex (T-P) of different species of cetaceans, as well as to investigate the influence of seismic research activities in the strandings of this group. The data analyzed in this work were obtained by the Cetáceos da Costa Branca-UERN Project (PCCB / UERN), in partnership with the Center for Environmental Studies and Monitoring (CEMAM), during the execution of Beach Monitoring Projects, or through actions by the community. Specimens that died or died during rehabilitation had their tympanic complexes removed during necropsies or carcass analysis procedures, being identified on the right and left and submitted to the maceration process. For each specimen, data related to the development phase, sex and species were recorded. 58 TP complexes were collected from 31 cetacean individuals, distributed in 6 species: Peponocephala electra (N = 2), Pseudorca crassidens (N = 2), Sotalia guianensis (N = 20), Stenella attenuata (N = 2), Stenella longirostris (N = 3) and Tursiops truncatus (N = 2). Biometrics and morphological description were performed for each complex of each species, and possible ontogenetic and taxonomic variations were evaluated. The six species shared similar morphological characteristics because they belong to the same family (Delphinidae); however, the species S.guianensis, S attenuata and S. longirostris had a greater number of characteristics in common, which may indicate a greater evolutionary relationship between them. No significant ontogenetic variations were observed for the species S. guianensis, P.electra and S.longirostris. It was observed that the most representative morphological characteristics for the identification of the species would be, for the tympanic: the posterior process, the internal and external prominences and the sigmoid process. For the periotic: the cochlear portion and the cochlear and vestibular aqueduct openings and the parabular crest. Still with the data obtained from the monitoring of beaches, a description of the diversity and patterns of cetacean stranding was carried out, in the periods of occurrence of two Seismic Research projects, denounced from PCS01 and PCS02 being compared with the same periods in previous years , without the occurrence of seismic research activities, PSS01 and PSS02. It was possible to observe, during the period of seismic activities 01 and 02, a reduction in the number of stranding records in the areas of greatest impact, concomitant with the increase of these in other less impacted areas. Assuming a possible departure or change of route, due to the impact caused by seismic noise. In addition, three stranding cases were presented that presented morphological changes and signs of gas embolism, compatible with possible impacts caused by the seismic activities.
5	FABIANO GOMES DA SILVA IDENTIFICATION OF THE PREMAMMILLARY NUCLEI IN ROCK CAVY (Kerodon rupestris): CYTOARCHITECTURE AND IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY AGAINST NOS Advisor : JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE COMMITTEE MEMBERS : FERNANDO VAGNER LOBO LADD JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE PAULO LEONARDO ARAÚJO DE GÓIS MORAIS Data: Dec 28, 2020 Show Abstract The premammillary area is characterized by the presence of two nuclei, the ventral premammillary nucleus (PMV) and the dorsal premammillary nucleus (PMD). The PMV is very important to the circuits that control many reproductive and aggressive aspects, while the PMD is very important to the circuit that control defensive and agonistic behavior. In rodents, as rat and mouse, the PMV is a drop-shaped compact group of neurons in a rostral level, but is rounded in a caudal level. The PMD is caudal and dorsal to the PMV and has a rectangular shape in a rostral level, being more rounded in a caudal level when the medial mammillary nucleus appears. Functional studies showed a subdivision in the PMD, with a ventrolateral part (PMDvl) involved with defensive behavior against predator, and the dorsomedial parte (PMDdm) involved with social agonistic behavior. The present work aimed to study the premammillary nuclei in the hypothalamus of the rock cavy (Kerodon rupestris), an endemic rodent of the Brazil’s Northeast. To do so, we used Nissl staining and immunohistochemistry against the nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Both methods of staining showed the presence of the PMV and PMD in the rock cavy’s hypothalamus with location and morphology very similar to the rat. However, the rostral level of the rock cavy’s PMV seems to be more rostral than what is seen in other rodents. Besides that, the NOS staining showed the PMDdm and the PMDvl, what was reported before rat only by functional studies. We concluded that the premammillary nuclei in rock cavy have features that point them as participant in circuits that control behaviors as reproduction, aggression and defense.

2019

	Dissertations
1	KHELVEN KLAY DE AZEVEDO LEMOS Expression of estradiol and testosterone receptors during the development of the gonad of Podocnemis expansa. Advisor : CARLOS EDUARDO BEZERRA DE MOURA COMMITTEE MEMBERS : CARLOS EDUARDO BEZERRA DE MOURA DANILO JOSE AYRES DE MENEZES MARCELA DOS SANTOS MAGALHAES Data: Feb 1, 2019 Show Abstract Podocnemis expansa, considered the largest freshwater chelonium in South America, presents temperature-dependent sex determination during the thermosensitive period of gonadal development. At this stage, the presence of temperature-influenced hormones triggers the formation of a testicle or ovary in the undifferentiated gonad. Of the hormones present in embryonic development, estrogen is a significant constituent for determining female sex. In this context, high incubation temperature regulates aromatase activity and estrogen production; in contrast, low temperatures cause a reduction in estrogen production and the increase of androgenic hormones. The aim of this study was to analyze the expression of androgen (AR), estrogen (ERα and ERβ) and aromatase steroid receptors by means of immunohistochemistry in different regions of the gonad in the bipotential phases (22° - 29 ° day of incubation), thermosensitive period (24° - 42 °) and differentiated (more than 37 days) of P. expansa, as well as macro and microscopic changes during gonadogenesis using light microscopy and transmission electronics. These findings will be related to information from the incubation period and the temperature indices and will allow establishing possible factors responsible for the determination and differentiation of sex, which provides data that will contribute in the future with the maintenance and conservation of the species.
2	VALÉRIA MILENA DANTAS DE CASTRO EFFECTS OF EXTRACT ALLIUM CEPA L AND S-METILCYSTEIN IN MORPHOLOGY OF DUODENE OF RATS WITH DIABETICS INDUCED BY ESTREPTOZOTOCIN. Advisor : NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : GILBERTO SANTOS CERQUEIRA KARINA CARLA DE PAULA MEDEIROS NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS Data: Feb 28, 2019 Show Abstract Diabetes Mellitus is a worldwide epidemic that is expected to increase in the coming decades. It is a heterogeneous metabolic disorder and is classified as three major forms, DM1, DM2 and gestational diabetes. The experimental DM1 being the focus of this study. DM1 is characterized by being an autoimmune disease, where the immune-mediated destruction of pancreatic β cells occurs, with consequent insulin deficit, leading to hyperglycemia which in turn leads to damage such as retinopathy, neuropathy, gastrointestinal disorders, among others. The objective of this study is to evaluate the alterations due to DM1 in the duodenal portion and the possible attenuating or reversing effects of the extract of Allium cepa L. and its isolated amino acid S-methylcysteine in its morphology. For this purpose 35 male Wistar animals, aged 90 days and weighing between 250 and 300 g, were used. The animals were housed in polypropylene boxes provided with drinking fountain and feeder. They were divided into four groups: C (control), D (diabetic group without treatment), DSM (diabetic group treated with S-methylcysteine) and DAC (diabetic group treated with Allium cepa L extract). The treatment period lasted thirty days, then euthanasia was performed with a lethal dose of isoflurane for sample withdrawal. The samples were then fixed to follow routine histological processing with HE staining to determine the volume by the Cavalieri principle, the proportion occupied by the duodenum layers by the Delesse principle, absolute volume. Blood collection was also performed to analyze the profile of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1B and IL-6) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10). The treatments used reduced the glycemia in the DSM, DAC groups compared to the D group, but in the loss of weight, polydipsia and polyphagia had no positive effect. As for the increase in the reference volume of wall, lumen and total volume only the DSM group had improvement of the changes. In the absolute volume of mucosa, submucosa and muscle both the extract and the amino acid had a positive effect, the latter being more efficient. In the cytokine analysis, the extract had a non-significant reduction of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1B and IL-6, while the amino acid reinforced the anti-inflammatory activity of IL-10. From the results, it was concluded that the treatments were able to reduce glycemia, partially reverse stereological changes and act positively on the cytokine profile present in the serum. With this, it can be concluded that phytotherapic intervention can act as a coadjuvant alternative in the treatment of diabetes with benefits both pre-clinical and duodenal tissue level.
3	RENATA SOUZA E SILVA EFFECTS OF EXTRACT ALLIUM CEPA L. AND S-METILCYSTEIN IN THE MORPHOLOGY IN TESTÍCULES OF DIABETIC RATS INDUCED BY ESTREPTOZOTOCIN Advisor : NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : FERNANDA CAROLINA RIBEIRO DIAS NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS TIRZAH BRAZ PETTA Data: Mar 8, 2019 Show Abstract Diabetes Melitos (DM) is a complex, endocrine and diffuse disease that requires continued medical assistance for glycemic control as well as detection of risk factors. DM is marked by metabolic abnormalities and chronic complications, with infertility being one of the most recently mentioned. This infertility is characterized by reduced testosterone levels and changes in the germinal epithelium of the seminiferous tubules. The use of herbal medicines, in the combat or prevention of some diseases, has been increasing over the years, since it is a low cost alternative and easy to reach for the population. The extract of Allium cepa L. (onion) has already been reported as hypoglycemic and antilipemic. The amino acid extracted from this extract, called Smethylcysteine, presents even more positive results in several studies. The acquisition of new therapies that may aid in the treatment of diabetes is extremely important, since it has a direct impact on the well-being of society. Thus, this work aimed to investigate the morphofunctional, biochemical and morphometric aspects of the testicular tissue of diabetic rats, induced by streptozotocin, treated with extract of A. cepa L. and with the amino acid S-methylcysteine. Male Wistar rats weighing 200-250 g were divided into the following groups: normoglycemic control, diabetic without treatment, diabetic treated with the extract of A. cepa L. (400 mg / kg) and treated diabetic with the amino acid Smethylcysteine (200 mg / kg). DM was induced by streptozotocin (40 mg / kg intraperitoneally) and the treatment was performed by gavage daily for a period of 4 weeks. After euthanasia, the testes were collected for histological analysis of tissue integrity (Hematoxylin and Eosin). Morphometric parameters were analyzed by toluidine blue staining. Immunohistochemical marking was performed to determine the presence of testosterone receptors in the testicular tissue. The onion extract presented positive results as a form of therapy, mainly in the availability of receptors for testosterone. The isolated amino acid was able to present even better results in a generalized way in the improvement of the integrity of the testicular tissue.
4	ELAYNE CRISTINA DE OLIVEIRA RIBEIRO Volumetric parameters of the posterior fossa in basilar impression. Advisor : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS : EULAMPIO JOSE DA SILVA NETO EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR JOSE DINIZ JUNIOR Data: Mar 29, 2019 Show Abstract The reduction of PF is reported in the literature, mainly in the Chiari malformation. Explanations of how the process of reducing PF in BI type B The reduction of PF is reported in the literature, mainly in the Chiari malformation. Explanations of how the process of reducing PF in BI type B occurs is unknown. In the Northeast of Brazil, a predominantly brachycephalic population, this type of BI has been reported. The objective of the study was to evaluate the parameters of the volume of PF in BI type B and its relation with brachycephaly in a sample from the northeast. It is a case-control study using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of adults. The sample consisted of 126 MRI, the control group with (n = 96) MRI and the case with (n = 30), the latter, were previously defined by two neuroradiologist doctors. Linear measurements and 3D volume of PF and EPF were performed using the Osirix imaging software. The PF volume was significantly (p = 0.0001) lower in BI individuals compared to the control group. The decrease in PF in BI type B occurred in the relative length parameter (p = 0.0001), there was no change in height. In the head phenotype relation, the individuals with BI of the hyperbrachycephalic group had a volume loss of 1.22%, equivalent to 17.3 ml. The PF parameters allow concluding that the volume of PF is lower in individuals affected by IB, although the VT remains unchanged, considering the hyperbrachycephalic phenotype the volume loss of PF was high (17.3 ml). This study shows that the reduction of PF volume in BI type B occurs in the anteroposterior direction and the most affected individuals were hyperbrachycephalic phenotype common in the Northeast.
5	MARYELLE DE CÁSSIA ALBINO EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTS OF CHRONIC ALCOHOL AND WITHDRAWAL ON IMMUNOREACTIVE SEROTONERGIC CELLS IN THE DORSAL RAPHE NUCLEUS IN FEMALE RATS Advisor : VANESSA DE PAULA SOARES RACHETTI COMMITTEE MEMBERS : ANNA KARYNNA ALVES DE ALENCAR ROCHA JANAINA MENEZES ZANOVELI VANESSA DE PAULA SOARES RACHETTI Data: Apr 8, 2019 Show Abstract Chronic alcohol use may cause adaptive changes in neural cells, modifying signal transmission and release of neurotransmitters, and impairing the normal functioning of the central nervous system. It has been observed that the serotonergic system is affected by the action of alcohol, being dysfunctional both during chronic use and alcohol withdrawal, which favours the development of emotional disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Women constitute a risk group for these emotional disorders, so that in this study it was evaluated whether chronic consumption and withdrawal of alcohol promoted changes in serotonergic cell density in the dorsal raphe nucleus of Wistar female rats. The animals were submitted to increasing concentrations of alcohol (2%, 4% and 6%) as the unique source of liquid diet for 21 days or water (control group). Both groups had free access to the food. For the withdrawal protocol, on the 21st day of consumption, alcohol was replaced with water and the animals were submitted to transcardiac perfusion and brain removal 72 hours after replacement by water (short-term withdrawal group) or 21 days after replacement by water (long-term withdrawal group). Immunohistochemical analysis for the detection of serotonin immunoreactive cells in the dorsal (DDR) and caudal (CDR) parts of the dorsal raphe nucleus showed that short- and long-term alcohol withdrawal increased the density of immunolabelled cells in DDR. In addition, chronic exposure, as well as short- and long-term withdrawal periods increased immunostaining in CDR, when compared to control animals.
6	SILVANO DA CUNHA DIONIZIO EFFECT OF LASER THERAPY ON MC3T3-E1 PRE-OSTEOBLASTIC CULTS CULTURED ON CHITOSAN SCAFFOLDS Advisor : CARLOS AUGUSTO GALVAO BARBOZA COMMITTEE MEMBERS : CARLOS AUGUSTO GALVAO BARBOZA NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS RANIERE FAGUNDES DE MELO SILVEIRA Data: Jun 27, 2019 Show Abstract Chitosan is a biopolymer that presents potential use as a scaffold in tissue engineering due to its mechanical and biological properties, such as biodegradability, non-toxicity, antibacterial effect and biocompatibility. Laser therapy has been studied as an auxiliary tool in tissue engineering techniques due to its in vitro biostimulating effect on several cell types, but its effect on cells grown on chitosan scaffolds is still unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of laser therapy on pre-osteoblastic cells cultured on chitosan membranes. Cells of the MC3T3-E1 lineage were expanded and cultured on four surfaces according to the groups: P – plastic of the culture dish, without irradiation, as a positive control of cell growth; L0 – chitosan scaffolds, without irradiation; L1 – chitosan scaffolds, irradiation with a dose of 1 J/cm²; and L4 – chitosan scaffolds, irradiation with a dose of 4 J/cm². Laser therapy was performed with InGaAlP diode laser, with wavelength of 660 nm, power of 30 mW, in a single dose. Cell proliferation was analyzed at 24, 48 and 72 h after irradiation through the Alamar Blue metabolic reduction assay, while cell viability was assessed by Live/Dead and Annexin V/PI assays. Cell morphology and cell-biomaterial integration were evaluated at 72 h by SEM. Data from the proliferation assay showed that L4 group exhibited greater proliferation compared to P and L0 groups at 24 h (p <0.01) and showed a proliferative tendency in relation to L0 and L1 at 72 h. The evaluation of viability by Live/Dead assay revealed a large number of viable cells in all groups, which was confirmed by Annexin V/PI analysis, which showed a high percentage of cell viability in the studied groups (P: 89.2%; L0: 82.1%; L1: 82%; e L4: 85.2%). SEM analysis revealed that in the non-irradiated group (L0) the cells were more isolated and rounded, while in the irradiated groups (L1 and L4) the cells showed more evident projections and formed cellular clusters. Taken together, data from the present study showed that the chitosan scaffolds produced did not influence the proliferation of MC3T3-E1 cells, but also did not impair cell viability. Photobiomodulation, especially at the dose of 4 J/cm², promoted an increase in cell proliferation and allowed the cells to overcome any unfavorable conditions on the surface of the biomaterial. These results suggest that laser therapy may be an effective tool to promote cell proliferation in tissue engineering techniques with chitosan scaffolds.
7	JULIANA SILVA DE MEDEIROS LIMA Study of the antitumor effect of the combination of metformin and methotrexate Poli (lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticle in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells Advisor : RAIMUNDO FERNANDES DE ARAUJO JUNIOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS : LEÔNIA MARIA BATISTA NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS RAIMUNDO FERNANDES DE ARAUJO JUNIOR Data: Aug 16, 2019 Show Abstract Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) accounts for 90% of malignant pancreatic tumors. Generally, the diagnosis is made at an advanced stage or in metastasis, making surgical treatment impossible. Overall survival within 5 years is only 7% of cases. One of the major risk factors for pancreatic cancer is type 2 diabetes mellitus, in addition to smoking and obesity. Metformin is an oral antiglycemic agent widely used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Recently, metformin has been reported with anti-tumor activity. The aim of the present study is the in vitro evaluation of the anti-apoptotic effect of the combination of metformin and nanoparticle of PLGA associated methotrexate, a standard chemotherapeutic used in anti-neoplastic treatment, but also used as anti-inflammatory in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The combination of metformin and PLGA-MTX nanoparticle was performed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells, PANC-1. A pharmacological screening was performed from the viability test based on the use of resazurin to define the drug combination doses. Afterwards, flow cytometry was used to evaluate the induction of apoptosis by the combination of metformin and PLGA-MTX nanoparticle. Finally, immunofluorescence evaluated the expression of bcl-2 and caspase-3. The results show that the combination of drugs was efficient in inducing apoptosis in PANC-1 tumor cells. In addition, treatments showed reduction of the anti-apoptotic protein bcl-2 and increase of the pro-apoptotic protein caspase-3.
8	REBECA TAÍNES DO NASCIMENTO PINHEIRO HISTOMORPHOLOGICAL STUDY OF THE DIGESTIVE TRACT OF MANATEES Trichechus manatus LINNAEUS, 1758 Advisor : SIMONE ALMEIDA GAVILAN COMMITTEE MEMBERS : SIMONE ALMEIDA GAVILAN PEDRO PAULO DE ANDRADE SANTOS FLAVIO JOSE DE LIMA SILVA Data: Aug 20, 2019 Show Abstract Morphological studies of the digestive tract are relevant for the knowledge of biology and understanding of dietary habits in order to increase conservation efforts of the species. This study aimed to analyze macro and microscopically the digestive tract of the Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus). Samples were collected from 20 animals that dead stranded in the northeast coast of Brazil and died during the rehabilitation process in captivity between July of 1995 to March of 2017. The macroscopic analysis of the gastrointestinal tract was performed from the follow-up in loco of necropsies of Projeto Cetáceos da Costa Branca (PCCB-UERN). In order to evaluate microscopically, tissues collected during necropsies were fixed with 10% formalin and submitted to routine histological processing, with cuts of 5 μm of tickness, and subsequently submitted to the Hematoxylin-Eosin staining method (H.E.), Verhoeff methodology with ferric hematoxylin and periodic-Schiff acid (PAS) methodology. In the esophagus, the esophageal glands in the submucosa are absent and there are elastic fibers between the muscularis externa and adventicia. The stomach has a structure called cardiac gland, which microscopically, presents ontogenetics differencies. In the duodenal ampulla and diverticula, duodenal glands were identified in the submucosa. In the luminal portion of the mucosa layer of the cecal ampulla, colon and retus, stratified keratinized squamous epithelium was observed. Macroscopically, neonates and adults present the same structures in the digestive tract. The digestive tract of the Antillean manatee of the espécies Trichechus manatus resemble what has been reported about animals from the Order Sirenia, but presenting some histological particularities in more evidence.
9	DIEGO FILGUEIRA ALBUQUERQUE Effect of photobiomodulation on proliferation and viability of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) Advisor : CARLOS AUGUSTO GALVAO BARBOZA COMMITTEE MEMBERS : CARLOS AUGUSTO GALVAO BARBOZA PEDRO PAULO DE ANDRADE SANTOS RANIERE FAGUNDES DE MELO SILVEIRA Data: Aug 30, 2019 Show Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate, through in vitro experiments, the effect of photobiomodulation using low-level laser irradiation on the proliferation and viability of human endothelial cells. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were cultured and divided into four groups: C - control (without irradiation) and L1, L4 and L7.5 groups - cells irradiated with doses of 1, 4, and 7.5 J/cm², respectively, of diode laser (InGaAlP, wavelength of 660 nm, power of 30 Mw, in a single dose). The metabolic activity of the cells was assessed at the 24, 48 and 72 h after irradiation by the Alamar Blue assay. Cell viability and proliferation were also evaluated at 72 h through the Live/Dead, Annexin V/PI assays, cell cycle phase analysis and Ki67 protein immunostaining. Data from the Alamar Blue assay showed that at 72 h all irradiated groups exhibited significantly greater reduction percentages than the non-irradiated control group (p <0.01), the difference being even more evident in L4 and L7.5 (p <0.001). The analysis of cell viability by Live/Dead demonstrated a large number of viable cells in all groups, which was also observed through Annexin V/PI immunostaining, which showed a high percentage of cell viability in the studied groups (C: 95.2%, L1: 96.1%, L4: 96.1%, L7.5: 96.9%). The evaluation of the phases of the cell cycle showed that the irradiated groups exhibited a gradual increase of the percentage of cells in the proliferative phases of the cycle (S and G2/M), in a dose-dependent manner (C: 36.9%, L1: 38.0 %, L4: 38.3%, L7.5: 40.4%). Irradiation promoted a significant increase in Ki67 nuclear protein expression, with a more pronounced result when the G7.5 group was compared with the other groups. Taken together, the results of this study demonstrated that photobiomodulation, especially at a dose of 7.5 J/cm², promoted increased proliferation and viability of HUVEC cells, which may suggest the potential use of the laser in the parameters studied as a stimulus to endothelialization in the vascular tissue engineering techniques.
10	LAURA LAISE PEREIRA DA ROCHA Morphoquantitative assessment of Spinal cord anterior horn of Callithrix Jacchus em different gender and ages. Advisor : FERNANDO VAGNER LOBO LADD COMMITTEE MEMBERS : FERNANDO VAGNER LOBO LADD EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR PAULO LEONARDO ARAÚJO DE GÓIS MORAIS Data: Oct 31, 2019 Show Abstract The spinal cord is one of the most important neural centers, among its main functions is to promote locomotion. It is scientifically proved that with advancing age this motor function is completely affected. Nevertheless, little is known about the possible morphoquantitative alterations related to motor neuron aging, especially in marmosets, and whether there are distinct responses to gender-related aging. The data related to studies associated with spinal cord quantification are still controversial, since most of them use two-dimensional counting methods, being the main innovation of this work the 3D approach of the possible morphoquantitative changes. This research aimed to investigate the possible morphoquantitative differences of the spinal cord, usingstereological delineation techniques during senescence in different genders (males and females). For this, it were used 18 marmosets (Callithrix jacchus), which were divided into 6 groups according to their age groups and genders: young male group (n = 4), male adult group (n = 4), male elderly group (n = 2), female young group (n = 4), female adult group (n = 3) and female elderly group (n = 1). Spinal cords were collected after euthanasia followed by perfusion, systematically, uniformly and randomly sampled and stained using the Nissl protocol. Afterwards, stereological analyzes, were performed where the volumes of the substances (white and gray) of the spinal cord were estimated, as well as the parameters related to the anterior horn: reference volume, neuronal volume, density, total volume, total number of neurons and mean neuronal volume. The results demonstrate that there was a reduction in the gray matter reference volumes in females during aging, as well as a reduction in the anterior horn reference volume regardless of gender. When the volume density was analyzed, there was a reduction in the maturation process, while in relation to the total volume of the horn neurons a reduction was observed during the maturation and aging process in males. No significant differences were found for the other parameters analyzed.
11	JOÃO FAUSTINO DA SILVA NETO Morphometric, stereological and citoarchitecture caracterization of the spinal cord posterior horn of the marmoset (Callithrix jacchus): A age and gender morphological study. Advisor : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR FERNANDO VAGNER LOBO LADD PAULO LEONARDO ARAÚJO DE GÓIS MORAIS Data: Nov 1, 2019 Show Abstract The white tufted marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) is a small primate native to Brazil and has been widely used in research models worldwide. The spinal cord of the tuff sagui has the main characteristics of a spinal cord typical of mammals. This similarity of the marrow to other primates and to humans, as well as the ease of management, short gestation and rapid colony formation, allow the marmosets to be increasingly used as alternative models of primates in biomedical research. Although we observe several studies associated with the nervous system of these primates, we have little information on possible morphological differences in the gray matter of the spinal cord of marmosets. Thus, this work aims to characterize the morphological differences between sexes and by age in the posterior gray column of the spinal cord of the sagui. Rexed neural slides will be analyzed through morphometric, stereological and cytoarchitectonic techniques, thus verifying the main differences between sex and age. The major neurochemical populations in the posterior column of these primates will also be characterized by immunohistochemistry. With the results of this research, we hope to contribute to the characterization of the posterior column of the spinal cord of the white tufted marmosets, differentiating by gender and age differences. In addition to providing background for future experimental studies related to gray matter and the posterior column of the spinal cord of tufted marmosets.

2018

	Dissertations
1	NATAN REYGES CASTRO DA PURIFICAÇÃO Effects of associated treatment with quercetin, glutamine and α-tocopherol on the myocardial morphology of diabetic rats. Advisor : NAIANNE KELLY CLEBIS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : AURIGENA ANTUNES DE ARAUJO JACQUELINE NELISIS ZANONI NAIANNE KELLY CLEBIS Data: Jan 29, 2018 Show Abstract Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DC) is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in diabetic patients, and it can characterized by hypertrophy and cardiac fibrosis. The aims of this study was to analyze the effects of the antioxidant joint treatment quercetin (100mg/kg body weight), 1% glutamine and 1% α-tocopherol in the myocardium of rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus (DM-STZ). 20 male rats with 150 days old were subdivided into groups (n = 5): N (normoglycemic); D (diabetic); NT (normoglycemic treated with antioxidants) and; DT (diabetic treated with antioxidants). The results showed reduction of body weight, hyperphagia, polydipsia and maintenance of the hyperglycemic state in the D and DT groups. An increase in the heart weight / final body weight coefficient was observed (HW/FW), indicative of cardiac hypertrophy in D and DT. There was an increase in circulating levels of MPO, MDA, GSH and IL-10 in DT. Increased expression of SOD-1, GPX-1, IL-1β, TGF-1β and deposition of collagen fibers in D. In DT there was increased expression of SOD-1, IL-1β, TGF-1β and FGF-2 and, GPX-1 reduction of collagen fibers deposition. These results indicate that the joint treatment with different antioxidants in rats with DM-STZ stimulated the redox (GSH and SOD-1) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) pathways, increased the expression of FGF-2 required for remodeling and decreased the collagen fibers compared to untreated diabetic animals, indicating that at least for the myocardium the treatment was beneficial.
2	KAIO RAMON DE AGUIAR LIMA EFFECT OF L-GLUTAMINE IN THE RATS’s GLOMERULAR MORPHOLOGY WITH WALKER-256 TUMOR. Advisor : NAIANNE KELLY CLEBIS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : AURIGENA ANTUNES DE ARAUJO JACQUELINE NELISIS ZANONI NAIANNE KELLY CLEBIS Data: Jan 30, 2018 Show Abstract Cancer-related cachexia leads to metabolic changes leading to increased oxidative stress and inflammation that may promote morphological and physiological changes in different organs. This work aimed to describe morphologically the glomerular changes due to cachexia and the effect of supplementation with L-glutamine (2%) on renal protection. Twenty male Wistar rats were used, distributed in four groups: control (C); tumor carriers of Walker-256 (TW); control supplemented with 2% L-glutamine (CG) and Walker-256 tumor carriers supplemented with 2% L-glutamine (TWG). The results demonstrated a reduction of the glomerular density in the TW group and a decrease in the glomerular loss in TWG. There was an increase in the area of the glomerular tuft and reduction of the urinary space in TW. The area of the glomerular mesangium was larger in the TW and TWG than in the C groups, but TWG was smaller than TW. The percentage of the area occupied by extracellular matrix in the glomerular tuft was higher in TW and TWG. The glomerular area occupied by collagen was higher in TW and TWG, but it was lower in the treated group. FGF-2 expression was higher in the TW group, whereas TWG showed the lowest immunolabelling of all groups. The data indicate that the cachexia in the kidney changes the glomerular morphology with loss of glomeruli and glomerular fibrosis. Such changes can lead to functional renal impairment compromising renal filtration and levels of eliminated substances, which serve as indicators for drug dose adequacy and for treatment. On the other hand, supplementation with L-glutamine improves most of the analyzed parameters, minimizing the effects of cachexia in the treated animals, especially glomerular density and renal fibrosis, justifying its use in the treatment of cancer patients.
3	ERYCK HOLMES ALVES DA SILVA THE FLAT-FACED FRUIT-EATING BAT (ARTIBEUS PLANIROSTRIS): MORFOQUANTITATIVE AND NEUROCHEMISTRY CHARACTERIZATION OF THE COCHLEAR COMPLEX Advisor : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR MELQUISEDEC ABIARE DANTAS DE SANTANA RENATA FIGUEIREDO ANOMAL Data: Feb 28, 2018 Show Abstract The auditory system is extremely important for the survival of the species. Those that live in your natural environment, as well as those created under controlled conditions of laboratory need the hearing to detect dangers such as predators and motor vehicles, respond to vocalizations of animals of the same or other species. The ear is called a vestibulocochlear organ, because it participates directly in hearing and in maintaining balance in auditory’s system. Spatial navigation by chiroptera is widely associated with the mechanism of echolocation, which consists of the emission of sound waves by the vocal apparatus and consequent echo reflex, captured by the vestibulocochlear apparatus. Although several studies address the functional dynamics of the chiroptera echolocation systems, few papers are dedicate to a morphological analysis of the neural centers involved in the processing of such information. The present study aims to describe the morphological and neurochemical organization of the cochlear complex in bat Artibeus planirostris brains. Using the Nissl’s method all classical subdivisions described up to the present in other species were identified: ventral cochlear nucleus (anterior part, posterior part and granular layer) and dorsal cochlear nucleus (deep layer, fusiform layer and molecular layer). The neurochemical analysis of the calcium binding proteins by means of the immunofluorescence technique allowed to identify the presence of immunoreactive terminals and pericals to CB, CR and PV in different ways, presenting specificities in each part of the cochlear complex. Comparing vertebrates, the present study provides a first detailed description of the morphological aspects of the bat Artibeus planirostris, which was very similar to the characteristics found in rodents, specifically the rat and the chinchilla. In contrast, neurochemistry is contrary to human and non-human primates, and may be a direct relation with the echolocation used by the experimental model.
4	LEONARDO LUCAS DO NASCIMENTO SIQUEIRA CYTOARCHITECTONIC AND IMMUNOHISTOCHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION AGAIST TYROSINE-HYDROXYLASE IN THE MIDBRAIN NEURONAL NUCLEI OF SEA TURTLES Advisor : SIMONE ALMEIDA GAVILAN COMMITTEE MEMBERS : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR FLAVIO JOSE DE LIMA SILVA SIMONE ALMEIDA GAVILAN Data: May 15, 2018 Show Abstract Seven species of sea turtles are known in the world, among them, five species occur on the coast of Brazil: Dermochelys coriacea, Chelonia mydas, Caretta caretta, Eretmochelys imbricata and Lepidochelys olivacea. According to the Red List of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature all species of sea turtles in Brazil are threatened with extinction, with C. mydas classified as "Endangered" and E. imbricata "Critically endangered". The species C. caretta, L.olivacea and D. coriacea are classified as "Vulnerable". Little is known about the neurobiology of these animals. Studies on the external morphology of the nervous system of sea turtles are known, however, works that describe the cytoarchitecture of their brain are nonexistent. This research proposes to characterize the dopaminergic nuclei of the midbrain of sea turtles through a cytoarchitectonic description and by immunohistochemistry for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH). The dopaminergic system plays a critical role in a wide variety of functions and is present in the central nervous system of all vertebrates, being responsible for dopamine neurotransmission. Dopamine is recognized for its activity in the control of complex processes, such as motor activity programming and motivated behaviors. Fifteen specimens of beached sea turtles that died at the Rehabilitation Base of the Projeto Cetáceos da Costa Branca or those found stillborn at the nest openings between the years 2014 to 2017 were used. These animals were necropsied and the brain was removed. The material was fixed in 4% formalin and stored in 30% sucrose for the description of external morphology and microtomy through cryostat. Histological slides of the brainstem sections were made and stained by the Nissl method and/or submitted to immunohistochemistry for TH. The slides were described using an optical microscope and images were taken through a digital camera for documentation through photomicrographs. There were 339 coronal sections of the brainstem of sea turtles. The brainstem in the rostral to caudal direction exhibited the presence of small, rounded catecholaminergic nerve cells located throughout their ventral region in a dispersed form. This preliminary result brings to light differences in the cellular organization of what is observed in other representatives of vertebrates. In this way, we enabled the first descriptions of the dopaminergic system that can aid in the understanding of ecological issues and provide the neuro-anatomic basis for future functional motor studies.
5	RAISSA CLÁUDIA EUFRÁZIO DE OLIVEIRA Cytoarchitetonic, neurochemistry, morfometric organization of the claustrum/endopiriform of a bat (Artibeus planirostris) Advisor : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS : EUDES EULER DE SOUZA LUCENA EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR RENATA FIGUEIREDO ANOMAL Data: Jun 1, 2018 Show Abstract The Claustrum (Cl) forms part of the basal ganglia and is anatomically constituted of two main subdivisions: dorsal or insular Cl, and the medial ventral Cl located in the piriform cortex. The shape of the Cl varies among species and its size increases in proportion to the volume of the neocortex. The Cl nucleus can play a key role in the processing of information in the brain, correlated to different activities developed by the activation of the sensory cortex that interconnects with different sensations. It is divided into three functional components: an anterodorsal connected to the somatosensory cortex and the motor cortex, a posterior dorsal connected to the visual cortex and a ventral area connected to the auditory cortex. While the exact function of Cl remains speculative, studies in rat brains have attributed a multimodal integrating role in relation to the connections attributed between the Cl and the cerebral cortex (cx), as various functions, such as somatosensory, visual and auditory can be associated with this nucleus. Thus, with the purpose of describing a cytoarchitecture and the neurochemistry of the nucleus, coronal sections of the brains of the bat Artibeus planirostris, were stained by Nissl method and sections submitted to the immunofluorescence technique presenting calcium binding proteins Calbindin (CB), Calretinin (CR) and Parvalbumin (PV), to delimit and observe the expression of these proteins in the Cl/En. The immunoreactivity to CB was not expressed in the subdivisions of Cl. CR was detected in a few Cl cells at middle level, were as immunoreactivity to PV was perceived conspicuously at the rostral, middle and caudal levels of Cl/En. Over all, in view of the strategic position of the CI, the associated functional and hodologic evidences in several studies, we believe that the study of the morphology of this area in bats can truly help elucidate the role of Cl in the nervous system and at the same time understand the pathways permeated by the evolution of subcortical nuclei.
6	SORÁIA FONSÊCA MARINHO DA SILVA Comparative study of the spermatogenic process on vampire bats Desmodus rotundus and Diphylla ecaudata (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) Advisor : DANIELLE BARBOSA MORAIS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : DANIELLE BARBOSA MORAIS DANILO JOSE AYRES DE MENEZES MARCELA DOS SANTOS MAGALHAES Data: Jun 11, 2018 Show Abstract The vampire bats are the only mammals that feeds exclusively on the blood of mammals or birds. Due to this peculiarity, and your relationship with the transmission of the rabies viruses, they arouse great attention and curiosities, being necessary the development of conservation managements that will enable the rational control of these species. To this end, it is essential that their reproductive cycles are known. Therefore, we aimed to describe the testicular activity of the species Desmodus rotundus and Diphylla ecaudata. The animals were collected in Lajes-RN. After euthanasia procedures, its testicles were processed histologically for inclusion in historesin for morphological and morphometric analyses under light microscopy, Spurr’s resin for analysis of cellular ultrastructure under transmission microscopy electron, as well in histological paraffin for immunohistochemical analysis of expression of androgen receptors, aromatase, FGF2 and BCL-2. D. rotundus presented the percentage of seminiferous epithelium, number of Leydig cells per gram of testicle, and population of Sertoli cells and of A-type spermatogonia significantly higher in the rainy season, while the percentage of lumen, mitotic index, support capacity performed by Sertoli cell and spermatogenic yield were higher in the dry season. D. ecaudata presented gonadossomatic index of 0.49%, tubulossomatic index of 0.47% and length of seminiferous tubules per gram of testis 32.20 m. Pre-meiotic, meiotic and post-meiotic phases accounted for, respectively, 56.20%, 9.30% and 34.50% of the seminiferous epithelium cycle of this species. Ultrastructure of spermatogenesis of both species were similar to that described in other mammals, and the perforatorium seems to be absent in their sperm. The immunohistochemical analysis revealed activity of the enzyme aromatase in Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, spermatocytes and spermatids, and the presence of androgen receptors in the cells of Sertoli and Leydig. FGF2 activity was more evident in the primary spermatocytes in zygotene and pachytene, as well in secondary spermatocytes and spermatids. On the other hand, the activity of the protein BCL-2 was more evident in the primary spermatocytes in pachytene and round spermatids. In D. rotundus, while the activity of aromatase, BCL-2 and androgen receptors were higher in the dry season, FGF2 activity was higher in the rainy season. It can be concluded that D. rotundus and D. ecaudata presented testicular pattern similar to that of other mammals, and characteristics that are common to those described in other bats species. The seasonal study of spermatogenesis in D. rotundus suggests a greater production of sperm in the rainy season at the Caatinga biome. This study is also the first step toward the knowledge of the reproduction of D. ecaudata, being this the first description about its spermatogenesis.
7	DIANNY ALVES DOS SANTOS E SANTOS MICROINJECTION OF MIDAZOLAM IN POSTERIOR HYPOTHALAMUS DOES NOT REVERT INDUCED ANTINOCICEPTION IN THE OPEN HIGH CROSS MAZE IN RATS FEMALES Advisor : ALIANDA MAIRA CORNELIO DA SILVA COMMITTEE MEMBERS : ALIANDA MAIRA CORNELIO DA SILVA ELAINE CRISTINA GAVIOLI JOYCE MENDES GOMES TESSARI Data: Dec 12, 2018 Show Abstract Animals exposure to threatening situations (innate or learned nature) induces a set of species-specific defense behaviors, among them, antinociception. It has been shown that rodents exposed to the elevated plus maze (four open arms, oEPM), an aversive situation, exhibit high magnitude antinociception. However, the mechanisms involved in such antinociception have not yet been elucidated. The present study investigated if antinociception induced in female rats exposed to oEPM could be reversed by microinjection of midazolam into the posterior hypothalamus. Thus, female rats received a right unilateral cannula implant in the posterior hypothalamus. One to three days after the implantation of the cannula, the animals were manipulated andhabituated to the experimental room for three days. On the day of the test, animals were submitted to the formalin test (2.5%, 0.05 mL) injected subcutaneously into the right hind paw and then the first test phase (5 minutes initial) was recorded in a glass vat. Fifteen minutes after formalin injection, the animals received microinjection of saline 0,9% or midazolam (5 nmoles) into the posterior hypothalamus. And, twenty-fiveminutes after the formalin injection, the animals were individually exposed to the closed or open EPM for recording the lick time on the foot for 10 minutes (Phase 2: 25-35 minutes). During the second phase of the formalin test, the experiment was recorded through a computer-camera circuit for further behavior analysis and nociceptive response analysis. The results show that the female rats exhibited elevated plus maze antinociception, but this response was not reversed by microinjection of midazolam (5 nmoles) in the posterior hypothalamus. However, for a more robust conclusion about the involvement of the posterior hypothalamus in the oEPM-induced antinociception, additional studies are required at different doses since the literature indicates that larger doses appear to have an effect on the posterior hypothalamus in animal models of fear- induced antinociception.
8	RAVEL CAVALCANTE MARINHO EFFECT OF LOW-LEVEL LASER ASSOCIATED TO TOPICAL APPLICATION OF GREEN PROPOLIS ON THE REPAIR OF CUTANEOUS WOUNDS IN STREPTOZOTOCIN-INDUCED DIABETIC RATS Advisor : CARLOS AUGUSTO GALVAO BARBOZA COMMITTEE MEMBERS : CARLOS AUGUSTO GALVAO BARBOZA CARLOS EDUARDO BEZERRA DE MOURA RODRIGO MARCEL VALENTIM DA SILVA Data: Dec 21, 2018 Show Abstract In diabetes mellitus (DM) the accumulation of advanced glycation end products promotes structural and biochemical changes in the tissues, contributing to the development of clinical complications, especially delayed skin wound repair. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the combination of laser therapy and topical application of green propolis extract on collagen production, vascular density and the presence of mast cells and myofibroblasts in cutaneous wounds in rats with DM induced by streptozotocin. Male Wistar rats (n = 90) were divided into five groups according to whether or not the DM Induction and the therapy employed in surgically produced cutaneous wounds: (N) normoglycemic without therapy; (C) diabetic control without therapy; (L) laser therapy (660 nm, 30 mW, 4 J/cm²); (P) topical administration of green propolis (30% alcohol extract); and (LP) combined laser and propolis therapy. The treatments were performed at the immediate postoperative moment and daily for six days. At intervals of 7, 14 and 21 days, wound closure was assessed by digital image of the surgical site and the animals were euthanized. Histological sections of the healing area were stained with Picrosirius Red for quantitative analysis of the occupied area and the organization pattern of the collagen under polarized light microscopy and fluorescence; and with Toluidine Blue for counting of intact and degranulating mast cell. The microvessel density and the number of myofibroblasts were evaluated by immunohistochemical expression of CD105 and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), respectively. Data show that the treated groups (L, P and LP) exhibited an accelerated contraction of the surgical wound (p<0.05) and a higher collagenation index, both in polarized and fluorescence light microscopy (p<0.05). These two methods of evaluation had a strong correlation index in healthy tissue (r=0.7559; p<0.0001), and moderate in the wound bed (r=0.5446; p<0.0001). The treated groups showed a more random morphological organization (p <0.05) by collagen orientation index and a progressive replacement of fine fibers by a thick collagen fibers. A higher number of myofibroblasts was evident in the wounds treated with P, LP and L, on days 7, 14 and 21, respectively. A smaller amount of degranulating mast cells was observed in the treated groups (p <0.05), with an even greater reduction in LP group. The vascular microdensity remained higher in the treated groups, with a better neovascularization index in the P groups on days 7 and 21, and in LP on day 14. It is concluded that the association of laser and propolis promotes a faster repair of wounds in diabetic rats by lower degranulation of mast cells, increase in vascular density and greater production and organization of collagen through the higher density of myofibroblasts.

2017

	Dissertations
1	EPIFANIO FERNANDES DA SILVA Effect of the nodiceptin/orphanin FQ receptor ligant on aggressive behavior of male mice Advisor : ELAINE CRISTINA GAVIOLI COMMITTEE MEMBERS : ELAINE CRISTINA GAVIOLI VANESSA DE PAULA SOARES RACHETTI GIROLAMO CALO Data: Feb 23, 2017 Show Abstract INTRODUCTION: Several species including humans display aggressive behavior. However, violence and impulsivity related to aggressiveness represent a social problem. Indeed, aggressive behavior can be considered symptoms of many psychiatric disorders. Some of the brain areas involved in aggression include amygdala, hypothalamus, and prefrontal cortex. Aggressiveness is modulated by different neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, noradrenaline and GABA. These systems represent the therapeutic targets available to treat aggressiveness. The nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) is a heptadecapeptide acting as endogenous ligand of NOP receptor. Clinical and preclinical findings suggest the involvement of N/OFQ – NOP receptor system with psychiatric disorders, including those related to aggressiveness. AIM: This study investigated the effects of standard drugs as well as NOP receptor ligands on aggressiveness in mice submitted to the resident-intruder test. METHODS: Male Swiss mice were used to develop this study. Valproate 300 mg/kg, Lithium 50 mg/kg, Carbamazepine 20 mg/kg, and Diazepam 1 mg/kg were used as standard drugs. The NOP ligands Ro 65-6570 (0.01 – 1 mg/kg), full agonist, AT-090 (0,01 – 0,1 mg/kg), partial agonist, and SB-612111 (1 – 10 mg/kg), antagonist, were used. In the resident-intruder test, male mice were housed individually for 7 days (residents) before the experiment. The aggressiveness of each resident mouse was tested twice, at 8th and 11th days, by inserting an intruder mouse in the resident cage for 10 min. Day 8 of experiment, the basal aggressiveness of resident mice was recorded without pharmacological treatment; Day 11 of experiment, the same mouse was re-tested after being treated. The open field was used to evaluated the spontaneous locomotor activity . RESULTS: Valproate, Lithium, and Carbamazepine reduced the aggressive behavior of resident mice, while Diazepam did not affect the agressiveness. Ro 65-6570 (at all doses) and AT-090 (at the highest dose), increased aggressiveness. The partial agonist, AT-090, at lowest doses, slightly reduced aggressive behavior. The treatment with SB-61211 did not modified the aggressive behavior of mice. None of the treatments affected the locomotor activity. CONCLUSION: Standard drugs used in therapy for psychiatric disorders were effective on aggressiveness control in the resident mice. In contrast, the activation of NOP receptor tends to increase the aggressive behavior, while the blockade of this signal did not modify this behavior. Ultimately, these data suggest that NOP agonists could increase aggressive behavior as an adverse event.
2	WYLQUI MIKAEL GOMES DE ANDRADE DISTRIBUTION OF NITRIC OXIDE IN THE SUBCORTICAL TELENCEPHALON OF ROCK CAVY (Kerodon rupestris) Advisor : JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE COMMITTEE MEMBERS : JOSÉ RODOLFO LOPES DE PAIVA CAVALCANTI JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE MIRIAM STELA MARIS DE OLIVEIRA COSTA Data: Jul 24, 2017 Show Abstract Nitric oxide (NO) is a gaseous molecule that acts as a neurotransmitter, regulating synaptic events and participating in neural functions such as memory and learning. In the nervous system, NO is synthesized by neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). As a gaseous molecule, NO can diffuse freely trespassing the cells membrane. Because of this NO can act as a retrograde neurotransmitter and is usually treated as a local moderator. NO and nNOS are highly conserved among species and are present in the nervous system of many vertebrates. We performed immunohistochemical anti-nNOS and histochemical for NADPH-diaphorase in order to investigate the distribution of nitrergic cells in the subcortical compartment of the rock cavy (Kerodon rupestris) telencephalon. The data show a heterogeneous distribution of neurons immunoreactive to nNOS or with NADPH-diaphorase activity throughout the subcortical compartment. Neurons immunoreactive to nNOS were observed in the nucleus accumbens, associating NO with mechanisms of addiction and reward; in the nuclei of the amygdala and in the hippocampus, that are associated with learning and memory; in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, associated to defense behaviors, analgesia and cardiovascular functions; and in the basal nuclei, suggesting a putative neuroprotector role and neural regulation of the movement, being still associated with neurodegenerative diseases in these regions. The distribution of NO in the subcortical telencephalon of rock cavy is broad, heterogeneous and complex, which can mean a broad role of NO in the cerebral functions of this species. In addition, the mapping of nNOS distribution is being important for the morphological definition of the rock cavy's brain areas in comparison with other species of rodents and other mammals.
3	MARDEM PORTELA E VASCONCELOS BARRETO EFFECT OF THE ASSOCIATION OF LASER THERAPY AND PROPOLIS ON WOUND HEALING IN DIABETIC RATS Advisor : NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : BENTO JOAO DA GRACA AZEVEDO ABREU JAEL SOARES BATISTA NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS Data: Jul 31, 2017 Show Abstract Diabetes mellitus is a disease that causes a number of systemic complications, including delay in the healing process. Several therapeutic alternatives have been tested in in vitro and in vivo studies in order to promote improvement in the process of wound repair in diabetic animals and individuals. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of the association of low intensity laser therapy and topical administration of propolis in a cutaneous wound model in male Wistar rats with induced diabetes. The induction of the disease was promoted by administration of streptozotocin and confirmed after five days by glycemic indexes. One group of animals (n=18) did not undergo induction and remained with normal glycemic index. Surgical wounds were performed on the backs of the animals (n = 90), which were distributed in five groups: (N) normoglycemic, without therapy; (C) diabetic control, without therapy; (L) undergoing low intensity laser therapy (660 nm, 30 mW, 4 J / cm2); (P) submitted to topical administration of propolis (30% alcoholic extract); and (LP) submitted to the combination of laser therapy and topical administration of propolis. Therapeutic procedures were performed every 24 hours for 6 days. The surgical areas were photographed in order to evaluate the wound closure area. At intervals of 7, 14 and 21 days, the animals were submitted to euthanasia and subsequent removal of the wound area. The specimens were fixed, routinely processed and embedded in paraffin and the slides obtained were stained by H/E and Picrosirius red for evaluation of re-epithelization, intensity of inflammatory infiltrate, and formation and organization of collagen, and also submitted to immunostaining for FGF-2 and VEGF. The quantitative data were submitted to non-parametric statistical tests, with a 95% confidence interval. The macroscopic evaluation of the wound area showed that the three groups submitted to treatment (L, P, and LP) showed an acceleration of wound retraction in relation to group C (p <0.001) from the 3rd to the 14th day, with a similar result to group N. The LP group presented a better result in relation to the others (p <0.05) from the 5th day onwards. Histological analysis showed that the treated groups exhibited higher rates of re-epithelialization, especially in the L and LP groups, as well as lower inflammation rates, especially in the LP and P groups. The LP group had the most organized collagen in all intervals evaluated, especially at the 21st day. Regarding the collagen I/III ratio, it was observed on the 7th day higher values in the LP group compared to the C group (p <0.05), similar to the N group. On the 14th day, the L group presented the highest proportion of the treated groups, resembling to the results of group N and with statistical difference for the other experimental groups (p <0.01). There was no difference in the collagen I/III ratio among the groups at the 21-day interval. Compared to group C, the three treated groups exhibited higher expression of FGF-2 and VEGF, however without statistical differences between them. Taken together, the results of the present study allow us to conclude that the association of laser therapy with the topical application of propolis improves the cutaneous wound repair in the animal model of diabetes studied.
4	DÁFINY EMANUELE DA SILVA MARQUES INFUENCE OF MODERATE AEROBIC EXERCISE ON MORPHOLOGICAL CHANGES AND OXIDATIVE STRESS CAUSED BY DIABETIC NEPHOPATHY IN RATS Advisor : NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS ADRIANA AUGUSTO DE REZENDE EUDES EULER DE SOUZA LUCENA Data: Jul 31, 2017 Show Abstract Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is an endocrine and diffuse disease, defined by high concentration of glucose in the blood (hyperglycemia) and marked by metabolic abnormalities and chronic complications. One of the most important of these complications is diabetic nephropathy (ND), characterized by loss of podocytes and expansion of the mesangial matrix, with consequent marked proteinuria. Currently, regular exercise, combined with diet and insulin therapy, has been considered one of the main approaches in the treatment of DM, whereas sedentary lifestyle presents itself as a predictor of complications and mortality. Recent studies have reported that physical exercise is capable of slowing the progression of kidney disease. However, most of the studies verified renal changes in DM only in the long term. In addition, knowledge about the effects of physical exercise on diabetic nephropathy is still scarce. This work aims to investigate the effect of moderate aerobic exercise on the morphofunctional, biochemical and molecular aspects of the renal tissue of diabetic rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into the following groups (n = 12 / group): sedentary (CS), trained control (CT), sedentary diabetic (DS), trained diabetic (DT) (DTP). DM was induced by streptozotocin (40mg / kg, i.p.). Soon after the confirmation of diabetes, the exercise program consisted of six weeks of swimming (3 days / week and 30 minutes / day) for the CT and DT groups. The DTP group underwent four weeks of previous exercise in relation to the beginning of the training of the other trained groups. Blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis (blood glucose, creatinine and albumin). The kidneys were collected for histological analysis of renal parenchymal integrity (Hematoxylin and Eosin), formation of fibrotic tissue (Picrosirius red), and thickening of the basal glomerular membrane (Schiff's Periodic Acid). The activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX), as well as the levels of lipid peroxidation by the thiobarbituric acid reaction (TBARS) were also analyzed. The animals in the diabetic group had a higher glycemic index when compared to the control groups (p <0.05). There was also an improvement in the trained diabetic groups, when compared to the sedentary diabetic group, but it was not significant. Creatinine was increased in all groups when compared to control (p <0.05). Albumin, as well as weight, were decreased in the diabetic groups, compared to the control group (p <0.05). DM resulted in renal hypertrophy in the diabetic groups, compared to the control groups (p <0.05). As well as an increase in the size and number of glomeruli of the diabetic groups, when compared to the control groups (p <0.05). As for oxidative damages, these were lower in the treated groups. Thus, it is observed that physical activity prevents complications due to diabetes.
5	NAYRA DA SILVA RESENDE Nuclear organization and morphology of cholinergic neurons in the brain of the rock cavy (Kerodon rupestris) Advisor : MIRIAM STELA MARIS DE OLIVEIRA COSTA COMMITTEE MEMBERS : MIRIAM STELA MARIS DE OLIVEIRA COSTA FERNANDO VAGNER LOBO LADD FRANCISCO GILBERTO OLIVEIRA Data: Dec 14, 2017 Show Abstract The acetylcholine (Ach) was the first discovered neurotransmitter, in the somatic motor neurons and autonomic neurons, and then observed in several neuronal clusters in the central nervous system, in the form of nterneurons and large projection neurons. In the central nervous system, Ach is involved in the control of certain motor activities and learning and memory processes. The aim of this study was to cytoarchitectonicly and by cholineacetyltransferase (ChAT)-immunohistochemistry delimit the cholinergic groups in the encephalon of the rock cavy (Kerodon rupestris), a crepuscular Caviidae rodent from Brazilian Northeast. For this, three young adult animals were anesthetized and transcardially perfused. The encephala were frozen-cut in the coronal plane, obtaining 6 series of 30 µm sections. The sections from one series were subjected to Nissl staining. Another series was subjected to immunohistochemistry to develop the acetylcholine putatively present in diverse neural centers of the rock cavy, using the synthesizing enzyme ChAT as marker. The slides were analyzed under light microscope and the results documented by description and digital photomicrographs. ChAT-immunoreactive neurons were identified in the telencephalon (nucleus accumbens, caudate-putamen, globus pallidus, entopeduncular nucleus and ventral globus pallidus, olfatory tubercle and Islands of Calleja, diagonal band of Broca nucleus, nucleus basalis and medial septal nucleus), diencephalon (ventrolateral preoptic, hypothalamic ventrolateral and medial habenular nuclei) and brainstem (parabigeminal, laterodorsal tegmental and pedunculopontine tegmental nuclei). These findings are discussed in both a functional and phylogenetic perspective.

2016

	Dissertations
1	LENILDA TEIXEIRA DA SILVA Morphological adaptations of the digestory tract of neotropical fish Steindachnerina notonota (Characiformes, Curimatidae) to the detritivore feeding habit Advisor : NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : DEYSE DE SOUZA DANTAS GUSTAVO DA CUNHA LIMA FREIRE NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS Data: Jun 21, 2016 Show Abstract Detritivory is the common freshwater fishes, especially in the Neotropical region, and for many species are scarce information about the digestory tract, as is the case of the species Steindachnerina notonota, in which, it has ecological importance as links in the food chain, serving of feed for carnivorous fishes, and acting in the depuration of aquatic ecosystems subject to organic pollution. The objective of present study consists of analyzing the morphological adaptations of the digestory tract, of this endemic species of the caatinga, Brazilian semiarid region. Thus, 10 adult specimens were used (males and females), necropsied for macroscopic and microscopic analysis of the digestory tract. All structures were observed in the stereomicroscope. The organs were fixed in 10% formalin and submitted to hematoxylin and eosin staining, and PAS - periodic acid Schiff (gill rakers, epibranchial organ, esophagus, stomach, midgut and hindgut) and analyzed by light microscopy. The gill rakers were also fixed in 10% paraformaldehyde for analysis by scanning electron microscopy. The specimens analyzed had total length of 8,66 ± 3,38 cm, standard length of 6,74 ± 1,95 cm, and weight 11,72 ± 11,59 g. The structural adaptations in the digestory tract were: mouth of the terminal type; the particular complex bucopharyngeal; absent from tooth and tongue; it has three types of formats of gill rakers with mucous cells and taste buds; possess the epibranchial organ with its peculiarities; a mechanical stomach with highly developed musculature in the pylorus; and a very long and coiled intestine, which internally has exclusive helical fold. The morphological aspects of digestory tract of S. notonota are related to detritivore-ilyophago specialized feeding habit.
2	FLADJANY EMANUELLY FAUSTINO DA SILVA The effect of the intracerebroventricular injection of Neuropeptide S on the Fos expression in the nuclei of the fear circuitry of Swiss mice Advisor : JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE COMMITTEE MEMBERS : JEFERSON DE SOUZA CAVALCANTE JOSÉ RODOLFO LOPES DE PAIVA CAVALCANTI JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE Data: Aug 5, 2016 Show Abstract Fear and anxiety are emotions featured by a group of physiological and behavioral changes that occur when subjects feel threatened physically and/or psychologically. For the last 2 decades many studies have showed that different sources of fear are able to activate different neural pathways, where conditioned (learned) and unconditioned (innate) fear run over different trails. The conditioned fear involves the frontal medial cortex and the central and basolateral nuclei of the amygdala, when the fear of predator (unconditioned) involves the medial nucleus of the amygdala and the nuclei of the medial hypothalamus. It is known that the brain functions are coordinated by neurotransmitter's systems and its receptors that are expressed in many different places around the brain, having different functions. The Neuropeptide S (NPS) is a neurotransmitter whose studies have showed its important role as an anxiety and awake regulator. NPS decreases anxiety and increases awakeness and locomotor behavior, been thus an anxiolytic and stimulatory neurotransmitter, what makes it a potential target for pharmacological and clinical studies. In the present work we injected NPS in the lateral ventricle (icv) of mice and looked for the Fos-expressing neurons in the nuclei of the conditioned and unconditioned fear pathways. The analysis of our results showed that the icv NPS promoted the increase in Fos expression in the central and basolateral amygdala, nuclei modulating the conditioned fear, but not in the medial nucleus of the amygdala, anterior hypothalamic nucleus, ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus and the dorsal premammilary nucleus, nuclei modulating the unconditioned fear, what indicate a major role of the NPS in the conditioned fear.
3	JONAS BISPO PESSOA Evaluation of the effects of the synergistic action of the antihypertensive carvedilol and gold nanoparticle on human hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Advisor : RAIMUNDO FERNANDES DE ARAUJO JUNIOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS : AURIGENA ANTUNES DE ARAUJO JEYMESSON RAPHAEL CARDOSO VIEIRA RAIMUNDO FERNANDES DE ARAUJO JUNIOR Data: Dec 6, 2016 Show Abstract Liver cancer is considered one of the most prevalent in the world and does not present promising treatments, necessitating alternative forms of fighting the tumor. Gold nanoparticles have emerged as an important modality of treatment for various diseases due to the characteristics of their nanoconjugates. In addition to this, the antihypertensive carvedilol has been shown in the recent literature to be antitumor potential. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the antitumor action, isolated and synergistic, of the gold nanoparticle and the antihypertensive carvedilol on tumor cells (HepG2) and human normal (HEK-293). The viability test was carried out by exclusion of tripan blue at doses of NPO (1 μg / ml, 3 μg / ml, 6.25 μg / ml, 12.5 μg / ml, 25 μg / ml and 50 μg / Ml) and carvedilol (1.5 μM, 3 μM, 6.25 μM, 12.5 μM, 50 μM, 100 μM, 200 μM and 300 μM) were used to select those that would cause low inhibition of growth of HepG2 cells. The selected doses of NPO and carvedilol were used, isolated and in synergism, for analysis of cell death by flow cytometry by the labeling of Anexins V-FITC and propidium iodide (PI). Subsequently, tumor cells were analyzed for expression of caspase-3, Bcl-2, caspase-8 and MAPK / ERK proteins by immunofluorescence microscopy. Then, mRNA levels of FADD, Apaf-1, survivin, MDR-1, EGFR, Akt and mTOR were measured by relating them to resistance and cell death. The evaluation of intracellular NPO targets, isolated and in synergism, was performed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Observing the synergy, the cells were submitted to gold nanoparticle and 24 hours after the treatment, treated with carvedilol. The best doses of the cell viability test with NPO (3 μg / ml and 6.25 μg / ml) and carvedilol (1.5 μM and 3 μM) showed, by flow cytometry, pro-apoptotic activity on cells (HepG2) with statically significant results for synergism (P <0.001). Relative to normal human cells (HEK-293), these same doses did not prove to be statistically significant apoptosis promoters at both times. There was a reduction in total apoptosis (P <0.05) for the highest dose of synergism. There were strong markers for caspase-3 and caspase-8, in the groups treated with NPO (6.25 μg / m) and carvedilol (3 μM), alone and in synergism, and lack of labeling for Bcl-2 and MAPK / ERK for The same groups. In addition, mRNA expression of anti-apoptotic proteins (EGFR Akt, mTOR) and resistance (MDR-1) was shown to be overregulated, while the gene expression of proapoptotic proteins (FADD) was overregulated . MET demonstrated the internalization of NPO alone, in the vicinity of the plasma membrane and, in synergism, in the vicinity of the nucleus. With this, it can be concluded that the synergistic action of NPO and carvedilol shows proapoptotic action on tumor cells and protection of normal cells.
4	RODRIGO SERAFIM DE ARAUJO Morphology and epididymal morphometry of the bat Artibeus planirostris (CHIROPTERA: PHYLLOSTOMIDAE) Advisor : DANIELLE BARBOSA MORAIS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : DANIELLE BARBOSA MORAIS CARLOS EDUARDO BEZERRA DE MOURA SERGIO LUIS PINTO DA MATTA Data: Dec 12, 2016 Show Abstract Although studies on the reproductive biology of bats have intensified in Brazil, for many species and in several regions of the country these information are still scarce, such as is the case of Artibeus planirostris. The objective of this study was to understand the reproductive parameters of this species, from the morphological and morphometric analysis of the epididymis. Sixteen adult animals were collected during the dry season (n = 08) and rainy season (n = 08) in 2014. The captures were taken at dusk on central campus of Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (Natal-RN, Brazil) (SISBIO authorization no. 25233-1), using mist nets. After anesthesia and euthanasia by transcardiac perfusion with 4% paraformaldehyde, the epididymis were collected (CEUA/UFRN authorization no. 009/2012), followed by histological processing for embedding in historesin and analysis under light microscopy. Morphometric analyzes of the epididymal parenchyma were performed using images from the histological slides, by the Image-Pro Plus. The results were submitted to ANOVA, and the means were compared by the Student-Newman-Keuls test at 5%, followed by the Tukey post-test. At the two analyzed seasons, the morphological evaluation showed that the organ was divided into 4 main regions: initial segment, head, body and tail. The parenchyma was predominantly composed of epididymal tubules, supported by intertubular connective tissue. During the three main epididymal portions, the tubules occupied 75.07 ± 2.94 % of parenchyma in rainy season and 67.23 ± 2.44 % in dry season, and its percentages in the head and body were significantly larger in rainy season than in dry season. The remaining part of parenchyma was represented by the intertubular region, which showed proportional reduction in the same regions and seasons. The tubules were composed of cylindrical pseudostratified epithelium with stereocyllium, supported on a basement membrane and lumen. The epididymal epithelium was the main component of the epididymal tubule. In the tail region, its percentage was higher in dry season (27.58 ± 8.33%) than in rainy season (17.79 ± 4.33%). This epithelium was composed of the main (MA), basal (BA), narrow (NA), halo (HA), clear (CL) and apical (AP) cells. The first and last cells ones showed, respectively, the highest and the lowest distributions in all epididymal regions, in both rainy and dry seasons. In the head and tail regions, MA cells were the most predominant in the epididymal epithelium in the dry season in relation to the rainy season, while BA cells were the most predominant in the rainy season, such in head as in tail. AP cells had a higher distribution in epididymis head during the rainy season, while NA cells had a greater distribution in the epididymis body during dry season. There was a increase in several parameters, from the head to the tail, such as the tubular diameter, luminal diameter and its percentages with spermatozoa, and the muscle cells surrounding the epididymal tubules, in contrast with a decrease in epithelial high. Several of these parameters showed larger values in the rainy season in relation to the dry season. It can be concluded that the epididymis of A. planirostris was similar to that described for other mammals. It was found spermatozoa in the lumen of epididymal tubules during all the seasons, especially in the tail region, showing a continuous annual reproductive pattern, with reproductive peaks in the rainy season.
5	CAMILLA CARLA DO NASCIMENTO DANTAS CARDOSO Anti-inflammatory potential of microparticles containing Triamcinolone in the experimental ulcerative colitis model. Advisor : CHRISTINA DA SILVA CAMILLO COMMITTEE MEMBERS : CHRISTINA DA SILVA CAMILLO LOURENA MAFRA VERISSIMO JEYMESSON RAPHAEL CARDOSO VIEIRA Data: Dec 12, 2016 Show Abstract Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) encompasses a spectrum of chronic inflammatory disorders and is classified into two major subtypes: Ulcerative Colitis (UC) and Chron's Disease (DC). The treatment of UC is based on the use of anti-inflammatories, but these drugs in their conventional form generate numerous adverse effects, which stimulates the development of research focused on the search for new therapies and technologies applied to the drugs. The objective of this work was to evaluate the activity of microparticles coated by chitosan and guar gum biopolymers containing as active principle triamcinolone in order to observe the anti-inflammatory response in the macro and microscopic parameters of the intestinal mucosa, as well as the activity of the disease In response to the experimental model of 4% acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in Wistar rats. G2: Colitis (absence of colitis and absence of treatment), G3: Sulfasalazine (SSZ) (colitis + G5: free TR (colitis + 10mg / kg / day drug), G6: free TR (colitis + 5mg / kg / day drug) Kg / day drug), G7: Microparticle of triamcinolone (colitis + 15mg / kg / day drug) and group G8: Biopolymers (Colite + vehicle Chitosan-Gum guar). The experiment lasted eight days and induction of colitis occurred on the third day. The treatments were administered every day of the experiment, except on the 8th day, in which the animals were euthanized for posterior macro and microscopic analysis of the colon. The results obtained for the macroscopic evaluation showed that the lowest degree of injury, except for the negative control group, was found in the Biopolymer group (score 2.7) when compared to the other groups: Colite (score 6.6), SSZ (score 3.2), TR 5mg (score 7.5), TR 10mg (score 4.4), TR 15mg (score 3.3) and TR microparticle (score 3,7). In the statistical analysis of this parameter, the groups treated with SSZ 500mg / kg / day, TR 15mg / kg / day, TR microparticle 15mg / Kg / day and Biopolymers (microparticle vehicle) differed statistically when compared to the Colite group (p < ), This difference being more significant in the Biopolymer group (p <0.01). In the analysis of weight loss, the TR microparticle reduced this parameter by 8 to 12% when compared to the free Triamcinolone groups, differing statistically (p <0.05), suggesting that the technology employed was satisfactory in terms of reducing this adverse effect . In the histopathological evaluation the TR group 15mg / kg / day obtained the lowest tissue damage, evidencing the anti-inflammatory potential of the free drug. In view of the results, it is suggested that nanotechnology with the use of microparticles was able to reduce adverse effects, such as weight loss and, in addition, obtained better results when compared to the free Triamcinolone 10mg group, since there was release of Only 69% of the 15mg of triamcinolone encapsulated in 24 hours. Thus, studies aimed at the application of nanotechnology and new assets should grow and expand in order to seek new therapies and elucidate mechanisms of action that have not yet been discovered.
6	KADIGNA CARLA SILVA COSTA Morphofunctional analysis of the testis and spermatogenic process of the bat Artibeus planirostris. Advisor : DANIELLE BARBOSA MORAIS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : DANIELLE BARBOSA MORAIS CARLOS EDUARDO BEZERRA DE MOURA SERGIO LUIS PINTO DA MATTA Data: Dec 14, 2016 Show Abstract Bats act in several ways to regulate ecosystems. Among its representatives, Artibeus planirostris is a frugivorous species, which acts both as a seed disperser and as a pollinator. Due to the scarcity of studies on the reproductive biology of bats, especially in males, and the lack of information on the reproduction of mammals belonging to the Northeast region of Brazil, this study aimed to quantify the spermatogenic process of A. planirostris, as well as its seasonal variation, through the morphological and morphometric analysis of the testes. The animals were collected in the years of 2013 and 2014, between the dry (n = 10) and rainy seasons (n = 10), at the central campus of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (Natal-RN). After euthanasia, the testes were collected and processed histologically for embedding in historesin and analyzed under light microscopy. The histological slides were photographed and the morphometry was done using the Image-Pro Plus software. The results of morphometry and biometry were compared by the Kruskall Wallis test or the t test, with a significance level of 5% (p <0.05). Considering the two seasons, the animals had a mean gonadosomatic index of 0,54%. The seminiferous tubules represented about 92% of the testicular parenchyma, the remaining being represented by the intertubule. The seminiferous tubules were composed of about 27% of lumen, 60% of seminiferous epithelium and 4% of tunica propria. Among the analyzed morphometric parameters, only the lumen showed significant variation between the seasons, so that the highest percentage was found in the rainy season. The tubular diameter and height of the seminiferous epithelium presented a mean of 142 μm and 43 μm, respectively. It was obtained a mean tubular length per gram of testis of 64.7 m and tubulesomatic index of 0.47%. The cell population of the seminiferous epithelium was composed of spermatogonia type A, primary spermatocytes in the transition from pre-leptotene to leptotene, zygotene and pachytene, rounded spermatids and Sertoli cells. Only the population of primary spermatocytes in pre-leptotene/leptotene presented variation between seasons, with higher values in the dry season. The annual mitotic index was 14%, the meiotic index was 3%, the overall spermatogenesis yield was 51 cells and the Sertoli cell index was 6 cells. The analysis of the frequency of the stages that compose the seminiferous epithelium cycle showed that the most and least frequent stages were, respectively, the 1 and the 6. Stages 1 and 4 varied statistically between seasons, with stage 1 being more frequent in the rainy season and stage 4 being more frequent in the dry season. The intertubule was predominantly composed of Leydig cells, which presented higher percentages in the testicular parenchyma in the dry season, as well as the volumetric proportion of the lymphatic vessels. The other intertubular components did not vary statistically between the seasons, as well as the parameters analyzed for Leydig cell morphometry. These cells presented a number per gram of testis with an annual mean of 5,63x107 cells and a Leydyssomatic index of 0.005%. Large investment in seminiferous tubules, with low support capacity by Sertoli cells, and great investment in Leydig cells in the testicular parenchyma were observed, especially in the dry season, as well as in the pre-leptotene/leptotene primary spermatocyte population. It is concluded that A. planirostris presented a testicular pattern similar to that of other bats, as well for other mammals, and has an annual continuous spermatogenic pattern in the Northeast of the country.
7	EDSON SOARES DA SILVA JÚNIOR INCIDENCE OF FIBROPAPILOMATOSIS IN MARINE TURTLES IN THE BACIA POTIGUAR RN/CE. Advisor : SIMONE ALMEIDA GAVILAN COMMITTEE MEMBERS : SIMONE ALMEIDA GAVILAN ELIANE REIKO MATUSHIMA FLAVIO JOSE DE LIMA SILVA Data: Dec 19, 2016 Show Abstract The five species of sea turtles that occur in the brazilian coast are classified as species at risk of extinction by global lists of threatened species. Such status is due to the different threats that these animals have suffered over the past decades, among them the destruction of natural habitat, fotopoluição, incidental fishing, vehicle traffic and predation of eggs. Another significant threat to these animals, described in the literature, is the occurrence of fibropapillomatosis. This disease affects sea turtles, especially juveniles of the species Chelonia mydas, although it was also described in other species. This work intends to investigate the spatial and temporal distribution of records of sea turtles with fibropapilamatose stranding, living or dead, from the beaches of the municipalities of Icapuí / CE by Caiçara do Norte / RN, and to characterize the histology of these lesions. For this daily monitoring were performed, using quads in order to record the occurrence of sea turtles in the Bacia Potiguar RN / CE of beaches. Dead animals, depending of the decomposition state, they were evaluated for the type, number and positioning of tumors, photographed and georeferenced. The live animals were rescued and translocated to the rehabilitation base of the project Cetáceos da Costa Branca / UERN-Areia Branca where we performed the count procedure and location of the tumors. For the development of the research are being used data collected between 2011 and 2015. Among the 3.960 stranded sea turtles, 680 had tumors caused by fibropapillomatosis, values which grew during the years studied. In relation to the variation between the monitored sectors, the highest frequency of animals affected by the disease was recorded in the sector “C” "Guamaré-Macau." As the development phase, most of the affected individuals were in the immature stage, but there were also adult animals record and subadult affected by the disease. The lesions are configured for presenting papillary projections and epidermal hyperplasia, hyperkeratinisation regions within the connective tissue and points with suggestive of inflammation erythrocyte clusters. In addition, we observed parasites and leech eggs present within tumor structure. The Bacia Potiguar RN / CE has been shown to be an excerpt with features shared by other areas of fibropapillomatosis occurrence and with factors that may have contributed to the increase of the records of affected animals. Because it is a debilitating disease, which affects mainly juvenile animals with etiology not yet well defined, fibropapillomatosis promotes research aimed at a better understanding of the disease for the conservation of sea turtle species.
8	MARÍLIA ANIELLE DA SILVA FABRÍCIO REPRODUCTIVE ASPECTS IN SEA TURTLES OF THE POTIGUAR RN / CE BASIN. Advisor : SIMONE ALMEIDA GAVILAN COMMITTEE MEMBERS : SIMONE ALMEIDA GAVILAN FLAVIO JOSE DE LIMA SILVA GERALDO JORGE BARBOSA DE MOURA Data: Dec 19, 2016 Show Abstract Among the seven species of sea turtles, five occurs on the Brazilian coast: Dermochelys coriacea, Chelonia mydas, Caretta caretta, Eretmochelys imbricata e Lepidochelys olivacea. According to the Red List of the IUCN, all species of sea turtles in Brazil are endangered. The majority of works related that the sexual proportion of these animals indicate a population imbalance, having a number excessive of females. Thus, studies of reproductive biology of sea turtles are extremely necessary and important for the conservation of these species for future generations. This work aims to study different morphohistological aspects of male and female's gonads of sea turtle in Potiguar Basin. For this, were evaluated dead and living animals, from strandings between the beaches of Icapuí/CE and Caiçara do Norte/RN, totaling approximately 300 km. The dead animals were necropsied. During the procedure, the gonads were collected and fixed in formalin 10%, then submitted to histological process, through the techniques of hematoxylin-eosin, according Tolosa (2005), being analyzed in an optical microscope. Between January 2011 and December 2015 were recorded 3.960 stranding of sea turtles in the study area. The sample showed sex ratio of 3:1, with a predominance of females. . Eighty-five percent of the animals were classified juvenile. 86 samples of gonadal tissue wereanalized microscopically, being 58 females and 28 males, of Chelonia mydas, Eretmochelys imbricata e Caretta caretta. It was possible to establish three stages of maturation: pre-pubertal, pubertal and mature. The predominance was of pre-pubertal individuals, females presenting homogeneous oocytes and males with seminiferous tubules with a small diameter with absence of sperm. The pre-pubertal females specimens exhibit an average of 37,07 cm (CCC) and the males 38,68 cm (CCC); Pubertal females with an average of 77,04 cm and males 89,92 cm; mature females with 101,9 cm (CCC) and a single mature male with 105 cm. Researches on histological aspects related to ovarian and testicular development of sea turtles are scarce, but, the obtained results are in agreement with what has already been described. Researches like this, associating morphological and biometric data to histological analyzes, are necessary for the best knowledge about sexual maturity of these animals and implementation of conservation proposals for these species
9	MARIA EMANUELA MARTINS DOS REIS DISTRIBUTION OF NITRERGIC NEURONS IN THE DIENCEPHALON OF THE ROCK CAVY (Kerodon rupestris) Advisor : JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE COMMITTEE MEMBERS : JOSÉ DE ANCHIETA DE CASTRO E HORTA JÚNIOR JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE RUTHNALDO RODRIGUES MELO DE LIMA Data: Dec 20, 2016 Show Abstract Nitric oxide (NO) is a simple molecule (N=O), a gas with a free radical property whose until the 80s was considered a member of a family of environmental pollutants and a potential carcinogen. Since its discovery in the nervous system, NO has been implicated in several functions, what suits with its wide distribution in the brain. NO has been described in the brain of many animal species, but it was not described in the brain of the rocky cave (Kerodon rupestris), an endemic rodent of the Brazilian caatinga that inhabits rocky areas and have crepuscular habits. Due to these interesting characteristics we aim to describe the NO distribution of the rocky cavy diencephalon. Using standard immunoperoxidase against nitric oxide synthase (NOS), the NO synthesis enzyme, and histochemistry for NADPH-diaphorase, we were able to indirectly identify the presence of nitrergic neurons throughout the entire diencephalon. The hypothalamus showed a high density of NOS-IR neurons in several nuclei, among them the supraoptic nucleus, supraoptic decussation and the lateral part of the retrochiasmatic area. With moderate density we have the lateral pre-optic area, the preocular magnocellular nucleus, the anterior parvocellular part and the medial parvocellular part of the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, the ventrolateral nucleus of the hypothalamus, the peduncular part of the lateral hypothalamic area and the posterior nucleus of the hypothalamus. The anterior division of the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus and the dorsal hypothalamic area presented low density, and the lateral part of the medial pre-optic nucleus presented very low density. In the thalamus, immunoreactive NOS neurons were present in the ventral geniculate nucleus with high density. In the lateral part of the lateral habenular nucleus, the ventral posterodorsal thalamic nucleus and the mediocaudal part of the posterior thalamic nucleus with moderate density. The paraventricular nucleus of the thalamus, zona incerta and the parafascicular thalamic nucleus, presented low density. Comparing our results with those described in other animals we can say that the nitric system is an evolutionarily well-conserved neurotransmitter system.
10	LUCIMÁRIO THIAGO FELIX DE ARAUJO Mapping the nitrergic neurons in the brainstem of the rock cavy (Kerodon rupestris) Advisor : JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE COMMITTEE MEMBERS : JOSÉ DE ANCHIETA DE CASTRO E HORTA JÚNIOR JUDNEY CLEY CAVALCANTE VANESSA DE PAULA SOARES RACHETTI Data: Dec 21, 2016 Show Abstract Nitric oxide (NO) is a gas very important in intra and extracellular process. It is present in many tissues, having an important role in the immunological system, regulation of blood pressure, relaxation of the smooth muscle and vasodilatation through peripheral nervous system. As a gas, NO can pass freely through cell membranes. Therefore, it acts as a neurotransmitter of local action in the central nervous system, reaching short distances, diffusing from cell to cell. It has many functions as learning and memory and modulation of excitatory responses to aminoacids. The NO is present in many areas throughout the brain and has been described in many animal species by the expression of its enzyme of synthesis, the NOS. Using immunohistochemistry against NOS and NADPH diaphorase histochemistry we described the distribution of NO in the brainstem of a rodent typical from the Brazilian caatinga, that inhabits rocky areas and has crepuscular habits, the rock cavy (Kerodon rupestris). Several brainstem areas and nuclei presented immunorreactivity to NOS or NADPHd activity. Some of them showed a high density of immunostained neurons, for example the periaqueductal gray, the magnocellular nucleus of the posterior commissure and the interpeduncular nucleus. Others nuclei presented a moderated, as the posterior pretectal nucleus, olivary pretectal nucleus, layers of the superior colliculus and cuneate nucleus. Several showed a low density as the posterior commissure nuclei, paranigral nucleus external cortex of the inferior colliculus and the inferior oliva. Finally, there is nuclei with a very low density, for example the reticular part of the substantia nigra, the pararubral nucleus, the dorsal raphe nucleus, the gracile nucleus and interstitial nucleus of the medulla. The great number of nitrergic nuclei and its pattern of distribution in the rock cavy's brainstem is similar to the other mammals, leading us to conclude that the phylogenetic proximity between species is kept in the brainstem rock cavy NO distribution and their functions must be similar to those studied in other rodents.

2015

	Dissertations
1	MARIA PATRICIA OLIVEIRA DA SILVA REINALDO EFEITO DA OLMESARTANA NA RESPOSTA INFLAMATÓRIA EM MUCOSITE INTESTINAL INDUZIDA POR METROTREXATO EM RATOS Advisor : RAIMUNDO FERNANDES DE ARAUJO JUNIOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS : AURIGENA ANTUNES DE ARAUJO RAIMUNDO FERNANDES DE ARAUJO JUNIOR RENATA FERREIRA DE CARVALHO LEITÃO Data: Mar 19, 2015 Show Abstract O metotrexato (MTX) é um composto pró-oxidante que inibe a dihidrofolatoredutase, enzima importante na síntese de DNA. É amplamente utilizado no tratamento de leucemia e outras malignidades. A eficácia de metotrexato é muitas vezes limitada pela mucosite e lesão intestinal, que são as principais causas de morbidade em crianças e adultos. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da Olmesartana (OLM), um antagonista do receptor da angiotensina II, em um modelo de mucosite intestinal (MMI) induzida por MTX em ratos Wistar. MMI foi induzido através de injeção intraperitoneal (i.p.) de MTX (7 mg/kg) durante três dias consecutivos. Os animais foram pré-tratados com OLM oral a 0.5 mg/kg, 1 mg/kg e 5 mg/kg e com solução salina, 30 minutos antes da exposição ao MTX. Os métodos utilizados nesta investigação foram aprovados pela Comissão de Ética no Uso de Animais (CEUA) da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande Norte (UFRN) (Número de aprovação: 016/2013). Fragmentos de intestino delgado foram homogeneizados para ensaio de pesquisa das citocinas L-1β, IL-10 e TNF-α, atividade do Malonaldeído (MDA) e da Mieloperoxidase (MPO). Além disso, análises de imunohistoquímica da MMP-2, MMP-9, COX-2, RANK / RANKL e SOCS-1 além da análise da co-localização da expressão de SOCS-1 pela microscopia confocal foram realizadas. O tratamento com MTX+OLM 5mg/kg resultou numa redução da infiltração inflamatória da mucosa, ulcerações, vasodilatação e áreas hemorrágicas (p<0,05), bem como as concentrações reduzidas de MPO (p<0,001) e as citocinas pró-inflamatórias IL-1β e TNF-α (p <0,01). Além disso, o tratamento combinado reduziu a expressão de MMP-2, MMP-9, COX-2, RANK e RANKL (p<0,05) e aumentou a expressão citoplasmática de SOCS-1 (p<0,05). Nossos achados confirmam o envolvimento de OLM na redução da resposta inflamatória através do aumento da sinalização imunossupressora em MMI. Sugerimos também que o efeito benéfico do tratamento com a Olmesartana é especificamente exercida durante o dano através do bloqueio de citocinas inflamatórias.
2	HELDER HENRIQUE ALVES DE MEDEIROS CITOARQUITETURA E IMUNOISTOQUÍMICA PARA TIROSINA-HIDROXILASE DOS NÚCLEOS DOPAMINERGICOS MESENCEFÁLICOS DO MORCEGO (Artibeus planirostris). Advisor : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR FERNANDO VAGNER LOBO LADD JOSÉ RODOLFO LOPES DE PAIVA CAVALCANTI Data: Jun 26, 2015 Show Abstract A 3-Hidroxitiramina/Dopamina (DA) é uma monoamina do grupo dascatecolaminas e consiste na substância precursora da síntese de noradrenalina eadrenalina, tendo a enzima Tirosina-Hidroxilase (TH) como reguladora desse processo.Além disso, a DA tem a capacidade de atuar como neurotransmissor no SistemaNervoso Central – SNC, sendo o neurotransmissor principal de neurônios de novenúcleos encefálicos, nomeados de A8 ao A16. Os núcleos do mesencéfalo queexpressam DA são a Zona Retrorubral (RRF, grupo A8), a Substância Negra parscompacta (SNc, grupo A9) e a Área Tegmental Ventral (VTA, grupo A10). Tais núcleosestão envolvidos em três complexas circuitarias que são a mesoestriatal, mesolímbica emesocortical, os quais estão relacionadas diretamente com diversas manifestaçõescomportamentais como controle da motricidade, sinalização de recompensa naaprendizagem comportamental, motivação e nas manifestações patológicas da Doençade Parkinson e esquizofrenia. Todavia, muitos aspectos de caráter morfofuncionaldesses núcleos ainda continuam sem esclarecimentos. Considerando a relevância dosnúcleos dopaminérgicos mesencefálicos, o objetivo deste trabalho é caracterizarmorfologicamente os núcleos dopaminérgicos (grupamentos A8, A9 e A10) domesencéfalo do morcego (Artibeus planirostris). O Artibeus planirostris é um morcegocomum no Rio Grande do Norte. Foram utilizados dez animais nesta pesquisa. Osanimais foram anestesiados, perfundidos e os encéfalos removidos da cavidadecraniana. Após desidratação em sacarose, os encéfalos foram submetidos a microtomiae secções coronais foram obtidas e coletadas em seis compartimentos distintos. Oscompartimentos foram submetidos a coloração pela técnica de Nissl para análisecitoarquitetônica e as demais séries foram submetidas a imunoistoquímica para TH.Com base na técnica de Nissl e na imunoistoquímica para TH foi possível verificar oslimites anatômicos, assim como a citoarquitetura e possíveis subdivisões dos trêsnúcleos dopaminérgicos do mesencéfalo. No sentido rostro-caudal, os primeirosneurônios dopaminérgicos a surgirem fazem parte da SNc e se estendem até níveis maiscaudais do mesencéfalo. A VTA surge nas secções rostrais e continua até o nível caudal.No nível caudal surge a RRF. A SNc apresentou a existência de uma subdivisão, acauda da substância negra, encontrada em apenas dois outros animais estudados. Opresente estudo indica que os núcleos dopaminérgicos do mesencéfalo do Artibeusplanirostris apresenta semelhanças citoarquitetônicas, bem como no padrão dedistribuição de neurônios imunorreativos a Tirosina Hidroxilase em comparação a10 outras espécies de mamíferos estudados, com pequenas variações, identificada nasubstância negra.
3	PRISCILA AREND BARICHELLO AVALIAÇÃO DOS EFEITOS DA RADIOFREQUÊNCIA ASSOCIADA AO USO DA PRÓPOLIS NA PELE, ATRAVÉS DE ALTERAÇÕES MORFOLÓGICAS E EXPRESSÃO DE VEGF, TGFα, FGF2 e FGF7 Advisor : NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS CLODOMIRO ALVES JUNIOR JAILMA ALMEIDA DE LIMA Data: Jun 29, 2015 Show Abstract A radiofrequência (RF) é uma forma de corrente elétrica emitida por um aparelho de alta freqüência com corrente alternada entre 3 KHz a 24 GHz que promove diatermia, ou seja, o aquecimento através de calor profundo, convertendo a energia elétrica em energia térmica. É um tratamento dermato-funcional não invasivo, que leva ao melhor aporte circulatório e de nutrientes, hidratação tecidual, aumento da oxigenação, aceleração da eliminação de catabólitos e contração do tecido conjuntivo. Promove reorientação de fibras de colágeno e seu aumento em espessura, bem como do tecido epitelial. A própolis é uma substância resinosa oriunda da abelha melífera européia Apis Mellifera colhidas de brotos, flores e exsudatos de plantas e possui em seu componente a quercetina, substância com efeitos antioxidativos. Este trabalho busca investigar os efeitos da própolis associada à radiofrequência, na morfologia da epiderme e derme de ratos Wistar. Assim, esperando uma ação positiva na neocolagenogênese. A metodologia utilizada foi composta por 36 ratas Wistar, pesando entre 250 a 300g. Divididas em 4 grupos, contendo 9 animais em cada grupo ocorrendo 3 aplicações de radiofrequência e/ou própolis em três semanas, sendo:. G1 – Controle (C); G2 – Própolis (P); G3 – Radiofrequência + Própolis (RP); G4 – Radiofrequência (R). Após 24h do término do tratamento, os animais foram eutanasiados e subsequentemente coletados fragmentos da pele que foram fixados em paraformoldeído 10% e submetidos a técnicas histológicas de rotina (desidratação, diafanização e inclusão em parafina), microseccionados a 5 μm e corados com HE-Hematoxilina Eosina, Picrosírius Red e imunomarcação para TGFα, FGF2, FGF7 e VEGF. Para análise e comparações da epiderme, derme papilar e reticular entre os grupos, e ainda da espessura e morfologia das fibras colágenas, microfotografias foram obtidas e microprocessadas pelo Software ImageJ 1.49J. Nossos resultados revelam que a epiderme do grupo própolis foi a mais desenvolvida, bem como a marcação para o FGF7. O colágeno total foi mais expressivo em todos os grupos que sofreram tratamento, entretanto a derme papilar e reticular apresentou-se menor nos grupos tratados com RF, possivelmente devido a contração do colágeno após a aplicação. Foi observado que o FGF2 apresentou maior expressão nos grupos radiofrequência com própolis e radiofrequência. O TGFα mostrou maior imunopositividade no grupo radiofrequência com própolis, entretanto este grupo não apresentou tecido de granulação. O VEGF não apresentou diferença significativa entre os grupos. Nenhum grupo apresentou edema ou inflamação. Concluimos que ocorre formação de colágeno em todos os grupos tratados, e a própolis funciona como um ativador da proliferação de queratinócitos. Dessa forma, nossos achados são de extrema importância científica, pois contribuirão para incrementar novas tecnologias, relacionadas aos mecanismos de neocolagenogênese dérmica, questão fundamental para novas possibilidades de aplicação na engenharia tecidual e área dermato-funcional.
4	JANINE KARLA FRANCA DA SILVA BRAZ EFEITO DO ÁCIDO ASCÓRBICO SOBRE A ESPERMATOGÊNESE DE CAMUNDONGOS COM DISTROFIA MUSCULAR DE DUCHENNE Advisor : CARLOS EDUARDO BEZERRA DE MOURA COMMITTEE MEMBERS : CARLOS EDUARDO BEZERRA DE MOURA DANIELLE BARBOSA MORAIS MARCELO BARBOSA BEZERRA Data: Jun 29, 2015 Show Abstract Objetivou-se avaliar as alterações na espermatogênese provocadas pela Distrofia Muscular de Duchenne (DMD) e o efeito do tratamento com ácido ascórbico na prevenção dessas injúrias. Neste trabalho foram utilizados 24 camundongos, sendo 12 linhagem C57BL/10 (não-distróficos) e 12 C57BL/10Mdx (distróficos) divididos em seis grupos com 4 animais cada (C30 = Controle de 30 dias; D30 = Distrófico com 30 dias; C60 = Controle com 60 dias; D60 = Distrófico com 60 dias; CS = Controle com 60 dias suplementados com ácido ascórbico e; DS60 = Distrófico com 60 dias suplementados com ácido ascórbico. Os animais dos grupos C30 e D30 foram eutanasiados aos trinta dias de idade, enquanto que os animais dos demais grupos aos 60 dias de idade. A suplementação com ácido ascórbico foi ministrada na água na dosagem de 0,005g/dia durante 30 dias. Após eutanasiados, os testículos (direito e esquerdo) foram coletados, imediatamente, pesados e seccionados transversalmente, fixados em solução de Karnovysky, incluídos em resina histológica (análises morfológicas e morfométricas), submetidos a análise ultraestrutural e submentidos técnica de imunohistoquímica para caspase-3. Houve aumento significativo no percentual de túnica própria em D30 em relação a C30 e D60. As análises ultraestruturais indicaram indícios de apoptose mitocondrial das células de Sertoli que podem reduzir a eficiência espermática em CS60 e DS60. Verificou-se maior densidade de volume das células apoptóticas postivas para Caspase – 3 em D30 versus C30 e DS60 em relação a CS60. . Houve acentuada hipertrofia de células de Leydig entre D30 e D60. No entanto, com a suplementação observou-se reversão dessa alteração em DS60. Na ultraestrutura das células de Leydig observou-se a presença precoce de vesículas lipídicas no grupo distrófico pré-púbere (D30). Dessa forma, a DMD afetou a organização dos túbulos seminíferos e intertúbulos, no entanto, a suplementação de ácido ascórbico., nas condições experimentais utilizadas para o tratamento da DMD foi suficiente apenas para reduzir a hipertofia das células de Leydig.
5	GLAUCIA MOISÉS MARQUES E SILVA CARACTERIZAÇÃO MORFOHISTOLÓGICA DO TRATO DIGESTORIO DE Cichlasoma orientale (OSTEICHTHYES: CICHLIDAE) Advisor : NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS CARLOS EDUARDO BEZERRA DE MOURA WALLACE SILVA DO NASCIMENTO Data: Jun 30, 2015 Show Abstract Neste estudo foram utilizados 06 exemplares de Cichlasoma orientale, com objetivo de caracterizar morfohistologicamente o trato digestório dessa espécie. A cavidade bucofaringeana deste peixe foi investigada por meio de lupa e microscópio eletrônica de varredura e exibiu características como boca terminal com protractibilidade, lábios liso sendo o superior de menor espessura que o lábio inferior, a língua triangular e pigmentada, maxila arredondada com pregas palatinas, valva respiratória e placas dentígeras com dente cônico. Na faringe temos a presença de duas placas dentígeras com dentículos cônicos, os rastros se apresentam curtos, apenas no primeiro arco braquial e exclusivamente presentes em espécimes jovens. As técnicas de coloração HE-Hematoxilina de Harris, Eosina e Periódico Schiff foram utilizadas para caracterizar morfologicamente as camadas do tubo digestório com auxilio do microscópio optico. O esôfago é curto com pregas na mucosa revestidas por epitélio pseudoestratificado com células mucosecretora que se intercalam com células não secretórias. A camada muscular esofágica é espessa com predomínio de fibras de músculo esquelético estriado que pode ser evidenciado inclusive próximo ao estômago. Estas características, provavelmente estão envolvidas ao hábito de deglutir presas maiores e proteção. O estõmago tem formato em Y possuindo três regiões, todas revestidas por epitélio simples e provavelmente absortivo. A cárdica, sem camada muscular da mucosa, com lâmina própria glandular; a fúndica com muitas pregas mucosas, delgada muscular da mucosa e grande quantidade de glândulas gástricas; por fim a região pilórica é também glândular e a camada muscular mais espessa quando comparadas as outras regiões. As características morfológicas estomacais indicam um estômago especializado na digestão química, ácida e proteica. O intestino apresenta-se, anatomicamente, curto com duas alças intestinais e com três regiões anterior, média e posterior bem distintas. Quanto à camada da mucosa, o epitélio por todo o intestino, tem revestimento do tipo cilíndrico simples observando-se células caliciformes e enterócitos, vilosidades também estão presentes. O órgão é totalmente aglandular e provavelmente responsável, mais intensamente com a absorção, sendo a digestão intestinal possivelmente dependente de secreções hepatopancreáticas.. A morfologia identificada em Cichlasoma orientale apresenta órgãos adaptados ao habito alimentar onívoro com tendência alimentar à carnivoria.
6	MARCELO JOSE SANTIAGO LISBOA SUPLEMENTAÇÃO DE ANTIOXIDANTE ÁCIDO ASCÓRBICO NA DIETA DE CAMUNDONGOS MDX (UM MODELO DE DISTROFIA MUSCULAR DE DUCHENNE): REPERCUSSÕES MORFOLÓGICAS NO MÚSCULO LISO (ESTRUTURA PRIMÁRIA) E NO PLEXO MIOENTÉRICO (ESTRUTURA SECUNDÁRIA) DO ÍLEO Advisor : NAIANNE KELLY CLEBIS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : NAIANNE KELLY CLEBIS JACQUELINE NELISIS ZANONI SANDRA REGINA STABILLE Data: Aug 26, 2015 Show Abstract A Distrofia Muscular de Duchenne (DMD) é uma doença de caráter hereditário onde ocorre a ausência da proteína distrofina, levando a quadros de lesão miopatia grave decorrentes do aumento do estresse oxidativo e influxo de Ca+. Lesões na musculatura lisa intestinal podem comprometer a motilidade local devido a alterações da estrutura da própria túnica muscular, bem como, a mudanças morfofuncionais das estruturas do plexo mioentérico. Este trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar as mudanças ocorridas na túnica muscular e nos neurônios mioentéricos colinérgicos do íleo de camundongos mdx e, os efeitos da suplementação com ácido ascórbico (AA) nestes dois componentes. Foram utilizados 30 camundongos machos C57BL/10 e 30 C57BL/10Mdx separados em grupos de acordo com a idade e tratamento (n=10): controle com 30 dias de idade (C30); distrófico com 30 dias de idade (D30); controle com 60 dias de idade (G60); distrófico com 60 dias de idade (D60); controle com 60 dias de idade suplementados com ácido ascórbico (200mg/kg de peso corporal) (CS60) e, distrófico com 60 dias de idade suplementados com ácido ascórbico (200mg/kg de peso corporal) (GDS60). Após o período experimental os animais foram eutanasiados e os íleos foram coletados e processados seguindo a rotina histológica e corados pela técnica de Tricrômico de Masson e, para técnica histoquímica da Acetilcolinesterase em preparados totais de membrana. Os dados demonstraram que a espessura da túnica muscular (µm) e a área de músculo liso (µm2) do íleo foi menor nos grupos distróficos, especialmente no grupo D30. Nos animais de DS60 a espessura da túnica muscular foi semelhante aos de C60. Houve redução da densidade neuronal colinérgica do plexo mioentérico do íleo foi menor nos animais D30, porém esta foi semelhante nos animais de 60 dias sem tratamento (C60 e D60) e, maior nos animais DS60. Área do perfil do corpo celular (µm2) foi semelhante nos animais de C30-D30 e C60-D60, porém está foi maior em DS60. A razão área nuclear/área citoplasmática foi menor em D30 e DS60 e, maior em D60. Desta forma podemos concluir que em camundongos mdx ocorrem alterações significativas na morfologia da túnica muscular e, consequentemente, mudanças morfológicas e funcionais dos neurônios colinérgicos do plexo mioentérico do íleo, bem como, que a suplementação com AA teve efeito neuroprotetor nestes animais pois prevenindo a perda neuronal.
7	ALDO FONSECA DE SOUZA INVESTIGAÇÃO DO PAPEL DE RECEPTORES DO TIPO 5-HT7 DA SUBSTÂNCIA CINZENTA PERIAQUEDUTAL DORSAL NA MODULAÇÃO DE COMPORTAMENTOS RELACIONADOS À ANSIEDADE Advisor : VANESSA DE PAULA SOARES RACHETTI COMMITTEE MEMBERS : VANESSA DE PAULA SOARES RACHETTI ELAINE CRISTINA GAVIOLI JANAINA MENEZES ZANOVELI Data: Aug 28, 2015 Show Abstract A ansiedade, embora conceituada como um sentimento vago e desagradável de medo e apreensão derivados de antecipação de perigo de algo desconhecido ou estranho, é também caracterizada como um estado emocional de grande valor adaptativo. Dentre os sistemas de neurotransmissão envolvidos na expressão de comportamentos relacionados à ansiedade, o sistema serotoninérgico tem sido amplamente estudado. Considerando a presença do receptor de serotonina do tipo 7 (5-HT7) na porção dorsal da substância cinzenta periaquedutal (DPAG), uma estrutura bastante implicada nos comportamentos defensivos, o presente estudo verificou se a manipulação farmacológica do receptor 5-HT7 alteraria as respostas comportamentais relacionadas à ansiedade em ratos. Ratos Wistar (90±5 dias) foram submetidos a dois protocolos experimentais. No experimento 1, ratos submetidos à cirurgia estereotáxica para implante de cânula-guia receberam a administração intra-DPAG de veículo (Salina + DMSO) ou do agonista de receptores 5-HT7 AS19 nas doses de 0,05, 0,1 e 0,2 μg. Cinco minutos após a administração, os animais foram testados no labirinto em cruz elevado (LCE). Vinte e quatro horas depois, estes mesmos animais passaram pelo teste do campo aberto. Já no experimento 2, os animais receberam a infusão do antagonista de receptor 5-HT7 SB 269970 (5, 10 ou 20 nmols) ou veículo seguida de administração intra-DPAG do agonista AS19 (0,1 μg) ou veículo previamente aos testes comportamentais. Os resultados mostraram que, quando administrado isoladamente, o agonista AS19 na dose de 0,1 μg, mas não nas doses de 0,05 e 0,2 μg, diminuiu a porcentagem de entradas e tempo gasto nos braços abertos do LCE, sugerindo efeito do tipo ansiogênico. A administração intra-DPAG do antagonista SB 269970 na dose de 10 nmols promoveu efeito do tipo ansiolítico, quando observado o aumento na porcentagem de tempo gasto nos braços abertos do LCE. Este efeito foi revertido pela administração do agonista AS19 na dose de 0,1 μg. Nenhuma das drogas testadas alterou parâmetros de locomoção analisados no teste do campo aberto, sugerindo que os efeitos relacionados à ansiedade não estejam associados a alterações na locomoção dos animais. Os dados aqui obtidos permitem a conclusão de que receptores do tipo 5-HT7 da DPAG, quando ativados, modulam um efeito do tipo ansiogênico. Ainda, o bloqueio de receptores 5-HT7 nesta área favorece um efeito do tipo ansiolítico, que vem sendo descrito na literatura após a administração periférica de antagonistas destes receptores.
8	TULIO FELIPE VIEIRA DE MELO EFEITOS DA INGESTÃO CRÔNICA DO ETANOL SOBRE A MORFOLOGIA DOS NÚCLEOS DORSAL E MEDIANO DA RAFE DE CAMUNDONGOS Advisor : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS : EXPEDITO SILVA DO NASCIMENTO JUNIOR FRANCISCO GILBERTO OLIVEIRA RUTHNALDO RODRIGUES MELO DE LIMA Data: Dec 14, 2015 Show Abstract O consumo de bebidas alcoólicas é considerado um sério problema de saúde pública no Brasil e no mundo. Sendo cada vez mais precocemente ingerido, este fármaco está associado a vários distúrbios do organismo e a altos índices de mortalidade, morbidade e incapacidades. O uso frequente do etanol pode desencadear um quadro sintomatológico caracterizado de Distúrbios Relacionados pelo Uso do álcool, do inglês Alcohol Use Disordes, nesse estágio o indivíduo apresenta sintomas característicos tais como problemas no convívio social e dificuldade no cumprimento das reponsabilidades profissionais e ingestão de quantidades cada vez maiores de etanol. Também são observadas alterações estruturais em vários órgãos como coração, fígado e encéfalo. Nesse contexto, o alcoolismo provoca anormalidades morfológicas e funcionais no sistema nervoso central, provocando redução do volume das substâncias branca e cinzenta em diferentes áreas corticais e a neurodegeneração em todo o sistema nervoso central. O álcool também interage com vários sistemas de neurotransmissores como o glutamatérgico, GABAérgico e serotonérgico alterando respostas comportamentais. No tronco encefálico estão localizados os núcleos da rafe que contém neurônios secretores de serotonina (5-HT). Este neurotransmissor, juntamente com os seus receptores são responsáveis pela modulação comportamental no controle alimentar, do humor, no ciclo sono e vigília, termorregulação e sensibilidade à dor. O presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar as alterações morfológicas dos núcleos dorsal e mediano da rafe através de métodos imunoistoquímicos, morfométricos e estereológicos. Observou-se diminuição da área (p<0,0002), diâmetro (p<0,0001), perímetro (p<0,0001) e volume (p<0,001) no núcleo dorsal da rafe, mas não no núcleo mediano da rafe em camundongos submetidos ao consumo de etanol, comparados com o grupo controle. Já a média do peso corporal não foi diferente entre os grupos em ambos os períodos inicial e final do tratamento. Nossos achados estão de acordo com a literatura atual, no qual apontam uma íntima relação entre o sistema 5-HT e o alcoolismo, onde o álcool pode interferir diretamente no metabolismo dos neurônios 5-HT.
9	MARIA DO SOCORRO MEDEIROS AMARANTE DO NASCIMENTO EFEITO DO EXTRATO HIDROALCÓOLICO DE Turnera subulata NA COLITE ULCERATIVA INDUZIDA POR ÁCIDO ACÉTICO EM RATOS Advisor : CHRISTINA DA SILVA CAMILLO COMMITTEE MEMBERS : CHRISTINA DA SILVA CAMILLO SILVANA MARIA ZUCOLOTTO LANGASSNER JEYMESSON RAPHAEL CARDOSO VIEIRA Data: Dec 15, 2015 Show Abstract As doenças inflamatórias intestinais abrangem um conjunto de desordens crônicasinflamatórias, entre elas a colite ulcerativa (CU). O tratamento da CU se baseia no usode anti-inflamatórios, porém estes fármacos podem apresentam efeitos colaterais, o queestimula a busca de novas terapias. O objetivo desse trabalho foi avaliar o efeito doextrato hidroalcoólico de Turnera subulata na colite ulcerativa aguda induzida por ácidoacético em ratos. CU foi induzida em ratos Wistar com a instilação de 1ml de ácidoacético 4% via retal. 42 animais foram distribuídos em 6 grupos experimentais: GrupoControle, Grupo Colítico, Grupo Sulfasalazina 500mg/Kg/dia (SSZ), Grupo T. subulata50mg/Kg/dia (TS 50mg), Grupo T. subulata 100mg/Kg/dia (TS 100mg), Grupo T.subulata 200mg/Kg/dia (TS 200mg). Durante o experimento foram avaliadosdiariamente, o consumo alimentar, ingestão hídrica e peso dos animais. Os animaisforam eutanasiados e o colón foi exposto para análise macroscópica. Fragmentos docólon foram utilizados para análise microscópica e avaliação do estresse oxidativo. Adiferença entre as médias foi analisada por ANOVA a um nível de significância de 5%(p<0,05) com o auxílio do Software GraphPad Prism. A análise dos resultadosdemonstrou que o Grupo Sulfassalazina teve a maior perda de peso ao longo doexperimento, 14,78% e o menor consumo alimentar de 6,23g de ração ao dia, os grupostratados com o extrato de T. subulata não apresentaram perda de peso significativaquando comparados com o Grupo Controle. O Grupo Colítico apresentou o maiorescore macroscópico 6,5; enquanto o Grupo TS 50mg teve um menor escore 1,0. Aavaliação microscópica mostrou a presença de edema, hemorragia, ulceração em todosos grupos experimentais, exceto o Controle. No entanto, o Grupo TS 50mg apresentou oprocesso inflamatório em menor intensidade. A avaliação do estresse oxidativo revelouque os grupos tratados com o extrato de T. subulata modularam a atividade das enzimascatalase e superóxido desmutase. Observou-se ainda redução na peroxidação lipídica eprotéica. Assim, é possível concluir que o extrato hidroalcóolico de T. subulata teveação anti- inflamatória e antioxidante na colite ulcerativa experimental.
10	VICTOR PEDRO EFEITO DO EXTRATO HIDROALCOÓLICO DAS FOLHAS DE Anacardium occidentale L. EM RATOS SUBMETIDOS À COLITE ULCERATIVA AGUDA. Advisor : CHRISTINA DA SILVA CAMILLO COMMITTEE MEMBERS : CHRISTINA DA SILVA CAMILLO PEDRO PAULO DE ANDRADE SANTOS JEYMESSON RAPHAEL CARDOSO VIEIRA Data: Dec 16, 2015 Show Abstract a colite ulcerativa é uma doença crônica caracterizada por umainflamação na mucosa do intestino, na maioria dos casos acomete à região do cólon e reto.Na terapêutica são utilizados fármacos como os aminossalicilatos e glicocorticosteróides,mas em função da baixa resposta e aos diversos efeitos colaterais promovidos por estes,revela a necessidade da busca de novas fontes de compostos úteis no tratamento destadoença. As diversas partes da planta Anacardium occidentale Linn vem sendo utilizadas aséculos na medicina popular no auxilio de cicatrização de lesões de pele e mucosa, estudosrecentes comprovam o seu expressivo efeito antiulcerogenico. OBJETIVO: avaliar oefeito do extrato das folhas de Anacardium occidentale em ratos submetidos à coliteulcerativa aguda. METODOLOGIA: foram utilizados 42 ratos Wistar machos,distribuídos em 06 grupos, sendo Controle Negativo (C-), Controle Positivo (C+), Tratadocom Sulfassalazina (CS500) e Tratado com Extrato de A. occidentale nas doses de 50(Ao50), 100 (Ao100) e 200 mg/kg (Ao200). Todos os grupos foram submetidos a ColiteUlcerativa experimental, exceto o C-, além disto, C- e C+ receberam solução salina durante7 dias consecutivos, enquanto os demais grupos receberam seus respectivos tratamentosrespeitando o mesmo regime que os grupos controles. Neste estudo foi realizado diferentestipos de analise (macroscópica, histopatologica, morfométrica e bioquímica) do tecidolesionado e caracterizado preliminarmente o extrato de A. ocidentale. RESULTADOS: oextrato é rico em saponinas e compostos fenólicos, como flavonoides (quercetina ecanferol) e taninos. Os grupos CS500 e Ao100 apresentaram proteção significativa a danosa lipídeos e proteínas, dentre os grupos submetidos a colite ulcerativa experimental oAo100 foi o que obteve o menor escore em todos os parametros analisados.CONCLUSÃO: o tratamento com 100 mg/kg de extrato de A. occidentale possibilitou umamelhor recuperação dos animais, sendo mais eficiente que o tratamento com 500 mg/kg deSulfassalazina, provavelmente devido a combinação do efeito anti-inflamatório,antioxidante, bactericida e anabólico promovido pelos compostos bioativos presentes noextrato. O tratamento com 50 mg/kg de extrato parece não surtir efeito terapêuticosignificante, enquanto que o tratamento com 200 mg/kg do extrato, embora tenhaapresentado melhora significativa dos animais com colite ulcerativa, foi observado umpossível efeitos toxico tópico exercido pelos compostos bioativos em excesso no extrato.
11	MARÍLIA FABIANA PIMENTEL DE OLIVEIRA Ação da Suplementação Com Ácido Ascórbico Na Morfologia doMiocárdio de Camundongos mdx. Advisor : NAIANNE KELLY CLEBIS COMMITTEE MEMBERS : CARLOS EDUARDO BEZERRA DE MOURA NAIANNE KELLY CLEBIS NAISANDRA BEZERRA DA SILVA FARIAS Data: Dec 21, 2015 Show Abstract A Distrofia Muscular de Duchenne (DMD) é uma doença de origem genética recessiva ligada ao cromossomo X caracterizada pela ausência da distrofina, que induz a fibrose e necrose muscular devido ao estresse oxidativo. No coração, estas lesões podem levar à insuficiência cardíaca e a morte. Este trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar os efeitos do estresse oxidativo identificado pela expressão da cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) na morfologia do tecido cardíaco de camundongos mdx, bem como os efeitos do ácido ascórbico (AA) sobre estes parâmetros. Foram utilizados 60 camundongos machos, sendo 30 C57BL/10 e 30 C57BL/10Mdx separados em seis grupos de acordo com a idade e tratamento (n=10/grupo): controle com 30 dias de idade (C30); distrófico com 30 dias de idade (D30); controle com 60 dias de idade (C60); distrófico com 60 dias de idade (D60); controle com 60 dias de idade suplementados com AA (CS60); e distrófico com 60 dias de idade suplementados com AA (DS60). As amostras de tecido cardíacos foram corados pelas técnicas de Tricrômico de Masson, Picrosirius red sob luz polarizada e Imunohistoquímica da COX-2. Os resultados demonstraram aumento de fibras colágenas em D30 e diminuição na área ocupada por cardiomiócitos em D60. A expressão da enzima COX-2 foi maior nos grupos C30, D30 e D60 indicando, provavelmente, em C30 um processo de desenvolvimento celular e, em animais distróficos, aumento do estresse oxidativo que levaram à fibrose. A suplementação com AA preveniu a perda muscular em DS60 em relação ao D60, bem como diminuição da fibrose e da expressão de COX-2 em DS60, comprovando a ação protetora do AA no coração de camundongos mdx.