Mortality of wild amphibians and reptiles admitted to a Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Northern Portugal (2009 – 2017)

The data from 78 native species of reptiles and amphibians admitted to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Parque Biológico de Gaia (Portugal) from 2009 to 2017 were revised to determine the main causes of morbidity and mortality. These data include four different orders: order Squamata (51.3%), order Testudinata (12.8%), order Anura (12.8%), and order Caudata (2.6%). 92.3% of the considered admittances were adults arriving during spring (41%) and autumn (29.5%). The main causes of admission to Rehabilitation Center were animals debilitated (12.8%) and injured (66.7%). Trauma was the major cause of mortality (78.2%). Unknown origin was the main cause of traumatic (71.8%) and non-traumatic (9.0%) death, followed by captivity related lesions (6.4%). These animals are excellent bioindicators of the health of the ecosystem and enable the identification of the main threats affecting them, especially those of anthropogenic origin. Studies of mortality on wild reptiles and amphibians are important to understand which the main threats and how human activity is affecting these populations.

Anti-biofilm activity of dalbavancin against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolated from human bone infection

The presence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in bone infections difficults its treatment and is a sign of concern. The aim of this study was to evaluate in vitro activity of dalbavancin on pre-established adhered cells and 24 h old biofilms of MRSA strains isolated from a human bone infection. Thirty-three MRSA were isolated from osteomyelitis episodes. The antimicrobial susceptibility of these strains was assessed by the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method and the presence of resistance genes was screened by PCR. MRSA planktonic minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration were assessed. Minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) was performed by the microtiter biofilm formation assay. All 33 MRSA strains were classified as multidrug-resistant strains and susceptible to dalbavancin. Dalbavancin inhibited the growth of 54.6% and 52% of strains at the concentrations of 0.05 µg/mL and 1 µg/mL, respectively. The MBEC values up to 0.4 µg/mL demonstrated that dalbavancin was active against most strains in pre-established adhered cells and 24 h old biofilms. The current results show that dalbavancin is active against adhered cells and biofilms in vitro, suggesting that this antimicrobial agent may be an option for the treatment of bone infections caused by MRSA.

Impact of postmenopausal vaginal discomfort on sex and relationships in Brazil: the CLOSER survey

OBJECTIVE

The CLOSER (CLarifying Vaginal Atrophy's Impact On SEx and Relationships) survey investigated how postmenopausal vaginal atrophy (VA) affects relationships between Brazilian women and male partners.

METHODS

Postmenopausal women (age 55-65 years) with VA, and male partners of women with the condition, completed an online survey on the impact of VA and local estrogen treatment on intimacy and relationships.

RESULTS

A total of 360 women and 352 men from Brazil were included. Women (83%) and men (91%) reported that they were comfortable discussing VA with their partners. Women's key source of information on VA was health-care providers (HCPs), but 44% felt that not enough information is available. VA caused 70% of women to avoid sexual intimacy and resulted in less satisfying sex. VA had a negative impact on women's feelings and self-esteem. Women (76%) and men (70%) both reported that treatment with vaginal estrogen improved their sexual relationship, primarily by alleviating women's pain during sex. Women (56%) and men (59%) felt closer to each other after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

VA had a negative impact on sexual relationships for both women and men in Brazil, and reduced women's self-confidence. Vaginal hormone therapy improved couples' sexual relationships. A proactive attitude of HCPs is essential to educate women on VA and the potential benefits of treatment.

Retinal layer thicknesses and neurodegeneration in early age-related macular degeneration: insights from the Coimbra Eye Study

PURPOSE

This study aims to analyze the retinal layers and choroidal thickness in a large set of eyes with early age-related macular degeneration (AMD), in order to detect differences by stage suggestive of early neurodegeneration, and to explore biomarkers of different phenotypes.

METHODS

This study is a population-based, cross-sectional study. Patients from the incidence AMD study (NCT02748824) with early AMD (Rotterdam 2a, 2b, 3) were included. All performed spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) (Spectralis, Heidelberg Engineering, Germany) and automatic segmentation of all retinal layers was obtained with built-in software. Manual correction was performed whenever necessary. The mean thicknesses (ETDRS grid) and volume of each layer were recorded. Subfoveal choroidal thickness was manually measured. Estimates for each layer thickness were calculated with linear mixed models and tested for pairwise differences between stages. Associations between layer thickness and microstructural findings were assessed by multivariate regression analysis.

RESULTS

The final cohort comprised 346 eyes (233 patients): 82.66% (n = 286) in stage 2a, 5.49% (n = 19) in stage 2b, and 11.85% (n = 41) in stage 3. A global tendency for lower/inferior thickness of the neuroretinal layers was found comparing stage 3 to 2a: retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), ganglion cell layer (GCL), and inner plexiform layer (IPL) were inferior in the inner/outer ETDRS circles and the outer nuclear layer (ONL) and photoreceptors' segments layer in the central circle (p ≤ 0.002). The retinal pigment epithelium-Bruch's membrane (RPE/BrM) layer was thicker in stage 3 (p ≤ 0.001). Subretinal drusenoid deposits (SDD) were associated with thinner neuroretinal layers and choroid (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed in a large population-based dataset that several inner and outer neuroretinal layers were thinner with a higher stage in early AMD. These findings support the existence of early and progressive neurodegeneration. Neuronal retinal layer thicknesses might thus be used as quantitative biomarkers of disease progression in AMD. The presence of SDD is possibly associated to more prominent and faster neurodegeneration.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio is an independent prognostic marker for feline mammary carcinomas

Blood leukocyte counts and respective derived ratios have been described as potential prognostic markers in several tumours in veterinary oncology. This study aimed to evaluate peripheral blood leukocyte subpopulations and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as prognostic factors for feline mammary carcinomas (FMC). Medical records from cats diagnosed with FMC between 2017 to 2019 were reviewed. Cats were included if fully staged, classified as WHO stage I to III, and submitted to mastectomy. Cats were excluded if they had evidence of other diseases. Forty-nine cats were included. The study endpoints were disease-free interval (DFI) and tumour-specific survival (TSS). The median DFI and TSS were 389 days and 528 days respectively. In the univariate analysis, higher values of total white blood cell count (WBC), neutrophil count (NEU) and NLR were identified as significant prognostic factors for both endpoints (P < .05). On the multivariate analysis, NLR remained an independent prognostic factor for TSS (P = .024). In the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the estimated cut-off for WBC was 8.49 × 10⁹ /L (DFI and TSS); for NEU was 4.62 × 10⁹ /L (DFI) and 6.65 × 10⁹ /L (TSS) and for NLR was 2.46. These cut-offs were significant prognostic factors for DFI and TSS (P < .05). NLR cut-off remained an independent prognostic factor for both DFI (P = .032) and TSS (P = .043) in the multivariable analysis. Our results suggest that NLR, NEU, and WBC can be important non-invasive presurgical prognostic markers, and that NLR is an independent prognostic marker for FMC. Prospective studies are warranted to validate its clinical use.

The role of COX expression in the prognostication of overall survival of canine and feline cancer: A systematic review

Cyclooxygenase (COX) isoforms-1 and -2 have been extensively investigated in cancer. Although COX-2 is the isoform most studied and has been described in several malignancies associated with histologic criteria of malignancy and worse prognosis, COX-1 has also been linked to some forms of cancer. With the present review our aim was to summarize the current state of knowledge and clarify if and in which type of tumours COX-1 and/or COX-2 expression have real prognostic implications. We searched PubMed database for prognostic studies using predefined inclusion criteria in order to ascertain the prognostic value of COX-1 and COX-2 in malignant neoplasia in dogs and cats. Eighteen studies were analysed. COX-2 was shown to be a negative prognostic factor in canine and feline mammary tumours, canine mast cell tumour, canine melanoma, canine osteosarcoma and canine renal cell carcinoma. COX-1 showed a negative prognostic value in feline oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). We found high heterogeneity among studies regarding COX immunohistochemical evaluation methodology even in the same type of neoplasia pointing out the need for its standardization at least by tumour type. The available data support the use of COX-2 as a prognostic factor in canine (mammary carcinoma, mast cell tumour, melanoma, osteosarcoma and renal carcinoma) and feline (mammary carcinoma) cancers. For COX-1, its use is advised in feline oral SCC.

Impact of anthropogenic pressures on wild mammals of Northern Portugal

Background and Aim:

Wild mammals are among the most threatened species of the world in large part due to human activity. In this work, we used the method of partial least squares-path modeling associated with a geographic information system to analyze the impact of anthropogenic pressures on the mortality of wild mammals.

Materials and Methods:

We collected the data related to the cause of death of native wild mammals admitted to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre of Parque Biológico de Gaia in Northern Portugal, during 10 years (2008-2017).

Results:

A total of 359 animals from 42 municipalities (rural and urban areas) were included in the study. The main cause of death was of traumatic origin. From the anthropogenic pressures included in the study, water reservoirs, small companies, and residential buildings were the ones that contributed the most to increase the mortality of traumatic and non-traumatic origin. This relation of cause-effect (mortality-anthropogenic pressures) was supported by the high coefficients of determination obtained (R² > 0.8).

Conclusion:

The present results allow a general view on the reality of mammal’s mortality in Northern Portugal. Furthermore, it could also constitute a valuable tool for the conservation of wild mammals in those areas.

Adjuvant doxorubicin vs metronomic cyclophosphamide and meloxicam vs surgery alone for cats with mammary carcinomas: A retrospective study of 137 cases

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and side effects of low dose cyclophosphamide chemotherapy plus meloxicam as an adjuvant treatment, compared with high dose doxorubicin or surgery alone in cats with mammary carcinoma. Medical records of 228 female cats treated for mammary carcinoma between 2008 and 2018, were reviewed in eight veterinary institutions. Only cats with complete tumour staging and radical mastectomy were included in the study. One hundred and thirty-seven cats were divided into three treatment groups: group 1 (n = 80) cats treated with surgery, group 2 (n = 34) cats that had surgery and adjuvant treatment with doxorubicin, and group 3 (n = 23) cats with surgery and adjuvant treatment with low dose metronomic cyclophosphamide and meloxicam. The study endpoints were disease free interval (DFI) and overall survival (OS). Toxicity was evaluated according to the VCOG-CTCAE criteria. The median DFI was 270, 226 and 372 days in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. The median OS was 338 (group 1), 421 (group 2) and 430 (group 3) days. The differences between groups were not significant (DFI P = .280 and OS P = .186). Toxicity was observed in 52.9% (n = 18) of cats in group 2 and 39.1% (n = 9) of cats in group 3, with mild to moderate intensity. Differences were not significant (P = .306). In conclusion, adjuvant chemotherapy treatment did not improve survival and the overall benefit remains unproven. Randomized prospective trials are necessary to clarify the effectiveness of adjuvant chemotherapy treatment for feline mammary carcinomas.

Non-exudative macular neovascularization in pseudoxanthoma elasticum

PURPOSE

To characterize morphological changes in the retina and to report the frequency and natural history of non-exudative macular neovascularization (MNV) in a cohort of pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE).

METHODS

A single-center, retrospective study was complemented by a cross-sectional examination. Consecutive patients with a definitive genetic and/or clinical diagnosis of PXE, visiting our department between January 2019 and December 2019, and with a minimum follow-up of 6 months were recruited. Baseline data were retrieved from each patient file. Additionally, a cross-sectional examination comprising color fundus photography, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), OCT-Angiography (OCT-A), and fundus autofluorescence was performed. The presence of typical PXE-related findings, as well as related complications, was multimodally evaluated. The prevalence and natural history of non-exudative MNV were assessed. All images were graded by two independent graders.

RESULTS

Forty-eight eyes from 24 patients (mean age 59.11 ± 18.14) with a median follow-up of 53.00 months were included. Angioid streaks and peau d'orange were observed in 46/48 and 42/48 eyes, while MNV was present in 75.00% of the cohort. The prevalence of non-exudative MNV was 33.33% (6/18). In the 2 eyes that developed exudation, time to conversion was 9.50 ± 4.95 months. No significant difference in visual acuity was found between eyes with non-exudative MNV and those with no signs of MNV.

CONCLUSION

We have shown that non-exudative MNV is a frequent finding in PXE but the majority of eyes did not develop exudation during follow-up. Our results are a clear evidence of the utility of OCT-A in the management of PXE.

Classification of Vertebral Osteomyelitis and Associated Judgment Applied during Post-Mortem Inspection of Swine Carcasses in Portugal

Vertebral osteomyelitis (VO) it is often a suppurative lesion that, in Portugal, represents the main cause of total condemnation of slaughtered finishing pigs. Based on the EU Meat Inspection legislation, meat from generalized VO cases presenting signs of pyemia should be declared unfit for human consumption. For that reason, the main objective of this study is to establish a classification scheme to differentiate between localized and generalized VO cases using macroscopic findings and validate it based on the presence of pyemia. To assist in, a combination of macroscopic characteristics of gross lesions (e.g., presence of pyaemia-related lesions (PRL), acute/chronic characteristics of VO) was used to create a classification scheme to differentiate between localized and generalized VO cases. The scheme was applied to 40 VO cases that had been totally condemned in an undifferentiated way. In those 40 cases, histopathological analysis was used to validate acute/chronic macro-criteria, and microbiological analysis was performed to identify the pyemia cases. From the 40 selected VO cases, 20 were macroscopically classified as chronic and 20 as acute. Cohen's kappa coefficient (κ = 0.80; p < 0.001), revealed a substantial agreement between macroscopic and histopathology classification. Microbiological analyses identified 13 pyemia cases (13/40; 32.5%). Among those, 12 were macroscopically classified as acute, this association being highly significant (p < 0.001). By using the proposed VO classification scheme, 14 possible cases out of 40 could have been spared from total condemnation. This scheme can be used to harmonize the classification of VO and meat inspection decisions in Portuguese abattoirs. The output would lead to avoidance of unnecessary carcasses condemnation (food waste/economic losses), under an evidence-based approach, without compromising food safety and public health as demanded by the EU Meat Inspection legislation.

Outcomes, Mortality Causes, and Pathological Findings in European Hedgehogs (Erinaceus europeus, Linnaeus 1758): A Seventeen Year Retrospective Analysis in the North of Portugal

Simple Summary

The Western European hedgehog Erinaceus europaeus (Linnaeus, 1758) is one of the most common mammals in urban areas. We collected data over 17 years (2002–2019) regarding outcomes and causes of mortality on this species from two of the main wildlife rehabilitation centers in the north of Portugal. A total of 740 animals were admitted; the majority were juveniles, with the highest admission rate occurring during summer (36.8%). The main cause of admission was debilitation (30.7%). Of the total number of individuals admitted to these centers, 66.6% were released successfully. The main cause of death was trauma of unknown origin (32.7%).

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the admission causes, outcomes, primary causes of death, and main lesions observed in the post mortem examinations of Western European hedgehogs, Erinaceus europaeus (Linnaeus, 1758), in the north of Portugal. The data were obtained by consulting the records from the two main wildlife rehabilitation centers located in the north of Portugal (Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre of Parque Biologico de Gaia and the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre of the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro). Over 17 years (2002–2019) a total of 740 animals were admitted. Most of the animals were juveniles, with the highest number of admissions occurring during summer (36.8%) and spring (33.2%). The main reasons for admission were debilitation (30.7%) and random finds (28.4%). Of the total number of individuals admitted to these centers, 66.6% were successfully released back into the wild. The most relevant causes of death were trauma of unknown origin (32.7%), nontrauma causes of unknown origin (26.6%), and nutritional disorders (20.2%). The main lesions observed were related to trauma, including skeletal and skin lesions (fractures, hemorrhages, wounds) and organ damage, particularly to the lungs and liver. The hedgehog is a highly resilient and adaptable animal. The urban environment has many benefits for hedgehogs, yet the presence of humans can be harmful. In the future, the public needs to become even more involved in the activities of the wildlife centres, which will make a positive difference for these populations.

First report of Spirocerca vulpis in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in Portugal

Recent studies have described Spirocerca lupi-like nematodes in the stomach of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in Europe. A phylogenetic analysis of those specimens using mitochondrial DNA and their morphological reexamination allowed their characterization as a different species, Spirocerca vulpis. Between the years of 2010 and 2017, roundworms were collected from seven red foxes of northeastern Portugal found at necropsy with nodular lesions on their stomach wall. Histopathological analysis of four foxes revealed granulomatous lesions of the gastric nodules. On morphological assessment, by light microscopy, nematodes revealed the presence of six triangular teeth-like buccal capsule structures, which are absent in S. lupi. Polymerase chain reaction was run to amplify a 551 bp partial fragment of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene. Sequences were 99% similar to S. vulpis (85% coverage) of red foxes from Spain and Bosnia and Herzegovina, 99% similar (99% coverage) to sequences of Spirocerca sp. of red foxes from Denmark and 93% similar (99% coverage) to S. lupi from South Africa. This is the first report of S. vulpis in foxes or any other host from Portugal.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration Staging by Color Fundus Photography vs. Multimodal Imaging-Epidemiological Implications (The Coimbra Eye Study-Report 6)

Epidemiology of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is based on staging systems relying on color fundus photography (CFP). We aim to compare AMD staging using CFP to multimodal imaging with optical coherence tomography (OCT), infra-red (IR), and fundus autofluorescence (FAF), in a large cohort from the Epidemiologic AMD Coimbra Eye Study. All imaging exams from the participants of this population-based study were classified by a central reading center. CFP images were graded according to the International Classification and Grading System for AMD and staged with Rotterdam classification. Afterward, CFP images were reviewed with OCT, IR, and FAF and stage update was performed if necessary. Early and late AMD prevalence was compared in a total of 1616 included subjects. In CFP-based grading, the prevalence was 14.11% for early AMD (n = 228) and 1.05% (n = 17) for late AMD, nine cases (0.56%) had neovascular AMD (nAMD) and eight (0.50%) geographic atrophy (GA). Using multimodal grading, the prevalence increased to 14.60% for early AMD (n = 236) and 1.61% (n = 26) for late AMD, with 14 cases (0.87%) of nAMD and 12 (0.74%) of GA. AMD staging was more accurate with the multimodal approach and this was especially relevant for late AMD. We propose that multimodal imaging should be adopted in the future to better estimate and compare epidemiological data in different populations.

The First Report of an Ovarian Cyst in the Bosca’s Newt, Lissotriton boscai (Lataste, 1879)

The Bosca’s newt (Lissotriton boscai) is a small species of newt from the family Salamandridae, endemic in the western part of the Iberian Peninsula. Reproductive disorders in amphibians are not common and are poorly described. The newt, an adult female, originated from the Espiríto Santo creek in Miramar (Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal), was admitted to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre of the Biologic Park of Gaia in November 2017, with a dilatation on the left side, and difficulties in swimming and diving. Radiologic exam revealed an oval hypoechoic structure on the left side of the celomic cavity that compresses internal organs and causes spine deviation. In post mortem exam, the cranial portion of the left ovary presented an oval structure with 112 × 53 mm, of a translucid whitish-pink coloration containing a serous-like fluid. At histopathologic examination an ovarian luteinized cyst was diagnosed. It is the first time this type of lesion has been described in amphibians. In this animals, female’s reproductive problems are quite rare, with only a few cases reported, mostly in captivity animals. This report is important to improve the knowledge on reproductive pathology in amphibians, especially in the Bosca’s newt and evidence the importance of the post mortem exam in captive and wild amphibians.

Macular atrophy development in neovascular age-related macular degeneration during first year of treatment: Incidence and risk factors

PURPOSE

To assess the development of macular atrophy, according to the new Classification of Atrophy Meetings criteria, in patients with treatment-naïve neovascular age-related macular degeneration during the first year of treatment with ranibizumab or aflibercept, and to determine baseline factors predictive of atrophy development.

METHODS

Retrospective subanalysis of three prospective clinical trials that included eyes with treatment-naïve neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Multimodal evaluation was performed with spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography, fundus autofluorescence and color fundus photography at baseline and after 12 months of treatment. The main outcome was the macular atrophy type, classified according to Classification of Atrophy Meeting criteria. Logistic regression models were built to test predictors of macular atrophy development.

RESULTS

A total of 85 eyes of 85 patients (63% female; mean age: 78.5 ± 6.3 years old) were included. After 12 months of antiangiogenic therapy, all four Classification of Atrophy Meeting types of macular atrophy developed de novo. The atrophy type with highest incidence at end of follow-up was incomplete retinal pigment epithelium and outer retinal atrophy (63.6%; 95% confidence interval: 45.9%-86.0%). A significant association was observed between development at 12 months and the presence of incomplete retinal pigment epithelium and outer retinal atrophy at baseline (odds ratio (95% confidence interval): 22.4 (1.6, 323.5)). The number of injections was predictive of complete outer retinal atrophy development at end of follow-up (odds ratio (95% confidence interval) 1.5 (1.1, 2.1), p = 0.011).

CONCLUSION

Predictors of atrophy development have the potential to change treatment practices. Further research is warranted.

Dextran-based tube-guides for the regeneration of the rat sciatic nerve after neurotmesis injury

In this work, dextran-based nerve tube-guides were prepared, characterized and used in a standardized animal model of neurotmesis injury. Non-porous and porous transparent tube-guides were obtained by photocrosslinking of two co-macromonomers based on dextran and poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL). Swelling capacity of the tube-guides ranged from 40-60% with no visible constriction of their inner diameter. In vitro hydrolytic degradation tests showed that the tube-guides maintained their structural integrity up to 6 months. The in vivo performance of the tube-guides was evaluated by entubulation of the rat sciatic nerve after a neurotmesis injury, with a 10 mm-gap between the nerve stumps. The results showed that the tube-guides were able to promote the regeneration of the nerve in a similar manner to what was observed with conventional techniques (nerve graft and end-to-end suture). Stereological analysis proved that nerve regeneration occurred, and both tube-guides presented fibre diameter and g-ratio closer to healthy sciatic nerves. The histomorphometric analysis of Tibialis anterior (TA) skeletal muscle showed decreased neurogenic atrophy in the porous tube-guides treated group, presenting measurements that are similar to the uninjured control.

A indústria do branqueamento em Lisboa: uma etnografia das práticas e produtos para o branqueamento da pele e seus riscos para a saúde dermatológica

Resumo Por meio de um exercício de walking ethnography, pretendemos apresentar uma etnografia da oferta cosmética destinada à despigmentação da pele no coração de Lisboa, focando num fragmento da cidade que junta diferentes propostas e produtos estéticos: spas chineses, salões de beleza e cabeleireiros africanos, lojas do comércio dito “étnico” ligado a imigrantes e portugueses descendentes de populações asiáticas ou africanas. Definimos esse passeio como “caminho do branqueamento” - parafraseando ironicamente o título de um dos mais famosos livros de Michael Jackson, Paths towards a clearing (1989). Considerando o corpo como um projeto em construção, pretendemos mostrar que os imaginários e os desejos ligados ao consumo desses tratamentos, assim como os padrões de beleza veiculados pelo marketing dos produtos de clareamento da pele, refletem e reproduzem variáveis sociais de género, classe e raça. Queremos também evidenciar como a maior parte dos produtos branqueadores, vendidos no centro da cidade, são proibidos pela legislação europeia de regulamentação de cosméticos, devido às altas concentrações de substâncias tóxicas. Essas substâncias, que circulam livremente nas redes do comercio informal, podem ser muito prejudiciais para a saúde dos consumidores, comportando severos riscos dermatológicos.

Teratological effects of pesticides in vertebrates: a review

In the last decades, the use and misuse of pesticides in the agriculture have increased, having a severe impact on ecosystems and their fauna. Although the various effects of pesticides on biodiversity have been already documented in several studies, to our knowledge no consistent overview of the impact of pesticides in vertebrates, both terrestrial and aquatic, is available. In this review, we try to present a concise compilation of the teratogenic effects of pesticides on the different classes of vertebrates - mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish.

Assessing the Interleukin 35 Immunoexpression in Malignant Canine Mammary Tumors: Association With Clinicopathological Parameters and Prognosis

BACKGROUND/AIM

IL-35 has a prominent immunosuppressive role and its overexpression has been reported in human breast cancer. However, the impact of IL-35 in canine mammary carcinogenesis has not been addressed yet. The present study determined the clinicopathological significance of IL-35 immunoexpression and its correlation with overall survival (OS) in 72 malignant canine mammary tumor (CMT) patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded malignant CMT samples (n=72) were submitted to immunohistochemical staining to detect IL-35 expression. Survival curves were obtained by the Kaplan-Meier method and the log-rank test was used for the survival estimates. Cox proportional hazard model for multivariate analysis was also performed.

RESULTS

IL-35 overexpression was associated with: skin ulceration, tumor necrosis, mitotic index, nuclear pleomorphism, tumor differentiation, histological grade of malignancy (HGM), neoplastic intravascular emboli and lymph node metastasis. Additionally, IL-35 was also correlated with a worse overall survival in multivariate analysis, arising as an independent predictor of poor prognosis.

CONCLUSION

IL-35 is associated with carcinogenesis and worse prognosis of CMT.

Incidence of Age-Related Macular Degeneration in the Central Region of Portugal: The Coimbra Eye Study - Report 5

PURPOSE

To describe the 6.5-year incidence and progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in a coastal town of central Portugal.

METHODS

Population-based cohort study. Participants underwent standardized interviews and ophthalmological examination. Color fundus photographs were graded according to the International Classification and Grading System for AMD and ARM. The crude and age-standardized incidence of early and late AMD was calculated, and progression was analyzed.

RESULTS

The 6.5-year cumulative incidence of early AMD was 10.7%, and of late AMD it was 0.8%. The incidence of early AMD was 7.2, 13.1 and 17.7% for participants aged 55-64, 65-74 and 75-84 years (p < 0.001). The late AMD incidence was 0.3, 0.9 and 2.8% for the corresponding age groups (p = 0.003). The age-standardized incidence was 10.8% (95% CI, 10.74-10.80%) for early and 1.0% (95% CI, 1.00-1.02%) for late AMD. The incidence of both neovascular AMD and geographic atrophy was 0.4%. Progression occurred in 17.2% of patients.

CONCLUSION

The early AMD incidence in a coastal town of central Portugal was found to be similar to that of major epidemiological studies of European-descent populations; however, the incidence of late AMD was lower, and further analysis on risk factors will be conducted.

Preservation of wild bird species in northern Portugal - Effects of anthropogenic pressures in wild bird populations (2008-2017)

In this study we aim to obtain a holistic view over the consequences of human-induced threats to the wild bird populations in the study area, based on data collected from a Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre (WRC) through the method of Partial Least Squares-Path Modelling (PLS-PM). The study area comprised 76 rural and urban municipalities located in northern Portugal. Within PLS-PM the threats ("anthropogenic pressures") are termed exogenous latent variables, while the final environmental consequence (wild bird mortality) is termed endogenous latent variable. Latent variables are concepts assessed by numerical parameters. The PLS-PM results identified as most significant pressures, the number of small and medium companies in the municipalities, both in traumatic and non-traumatic deaths. Although the pattern of weights is similar regardless of the general cause of death, traumatic causes seem to play a more prominent role given the larger weights in the relevant specific causes (number of companies). The high coefficients of determination (R² > 0,8) reveal that the variance of wild bird mortality is largely explained by the variance of the pressures, which indicates a cause-effect relationship between the independent (pressures) and dependent (mortality) variables. The ample coverage of northern Portugal with a huge dataset suggests that this cause-effect relationship is typical from this region. The use of a sophisticated statistical method PLS-PM and its incorporation into a Geographic Information System (GIS) revealed to be an important tool for analysing wildlife impacts of environmental and human factors. The results obtained with this model indicate that there is a substantial negative impact of human activity on wild bird mortality.

Structural and Functional Characterization of the Retinal Effects of Hydroxychloroquine Treatment in Healthy Eyes

PURPOSE

To evaluate the influence of hydroxychloroquine in visual field and retinal layer thickness.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cross-sectional study. Patients taking hydroxychloroquine without signs of hydroxychloroquine retinopathy were included. Optical coherence tomography segmentation was used to obtain the ETDRS map thickness of each retinal layer. Groups were divided into short-term (< 5 years) and long-term (≥5 years) drug use.

RESULTS

We included 93 eyes of 93 patients (short-term: 25 eyes; long-term: 68 eyes). The inner nuclear layer (INL) was thinner in the long-term group (32.86 ± 2.12 vs. 34.14 ± 2.37 μm; p = 0.014). Considering long-term cases, the parafoveal ganglion cell layer (GCL) showed an inverse correlation with cumulative dose (r = -0.37; p < 0.001). After adjusting for confounders, parafoveal ganglion cell complex thickness was associated with cumulative dose (β = -0.239; p = 0.011). The parafoveal outer retina and visual field indices were similar between groups and did not correlate with cumulative dose.

CONCLUSION

Hydroxychloroquine leads to progressive thinning of the parafoveal inner retina, particularly the INL and GCL. Visual field indices do not reflect the long-term effects of the drug.

Bidirectional Regulation of COX-2 Expression Between Cancer Cells and Macrophages

BACKGROUND/AIM

Our aim was to investigate the crosstalk between tumor and immune cells (M2 macrophages) and its effects on cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX2) regulation in canine mammary tumors (CMT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sh1b CMT cells and human BT474 mammary or HT29 colon cancer cells were co-cultured with canine peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) or with macrophage-like differentiated THP1 monocytes (dTHP1). Intracellular COX2 expression by PBMCs, dTHP1 and cancer cells was evaluated by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Co-culturing of Sh1b and canine PBMCs induced COX2 overexpression in CMT cells. In turn, COX2 expression by PBMCs, mostly CD68⁺ macrophages, was attenuated by co-culture with Sh1b (p=0.0001). In accordance, co-culture with dTHP1 prompted intracellular production of COX2 in both Sh1b CMT cells and HT29 human colon cancer cells and reduced production of COX2 in BT474 human mammary cancer cells. The intracellular COX2 expression from dTHP1 decreased when treated with conditioned medium from cultured Sh1b and HT29 cancer cells.

CONCLUSION

Bidirectional COX2 regulation between cancer and monocytes/macrophages might shape a tolerogenic tumor microenvironment in CMT.

Curcumin and Rutin Down-regulate Cyclooxygenase-2 and Reduce Tumor-associated Inflammation in HPV16-Transgenic Mice

AIM

Cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX2) plays a prominent role in carcinogenesis. This study addresses the effects of two nutraceutical compounds on the expression of COX2 and tumor-associated inflammation in human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV16)-transgenic mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Six-week-old FVB/n mice were supplemented with rutin or curcumin for 24 weeks: HPV16^-/- no treatment, n=12; HPV16^+/- no treatment, n=13; HPV16^+/- rutin, n=12; HPV16^+/- curcumin, n=13. HPV16-induced skin lesions and their inflammatory infiltrates were studied histologically. COX2 expression was assessed immunohistochemically.

RESULTS

Rutin reduced COX2 expression in the dermis (immunostaining score 7.83 versus 11.25 in untreated HPV16-transgenic mice) and epidermis (4.5 versus 10.0). Curcumin led to dermal and epidermal scores of 10.5 and 4.5. Both compounds reduced leukocytic infiltration, but neither prevented epidermal dysplasia.

CONCLUSION

COX2 expression in HPV16-induced lesions may be modulated by nutraceuticals, reducing tumor-associated inflammation. However, this was not sufficient to block carcinogenesis, calling for additional studies focused on combination therapies.

Subclinical Macular Edema as a Predictor of Progression to Central-Involved Macular Edema in Type 2 Diabetes

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between subclinical diabetic macular edema (SCME) and the development of central-involved macular edema (CIME) in patients with diabetes mellitus type-2 and mild nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), from 2 populations of different ethnicities.

METHODS

Two hundred and five patients with diabetes mellitus type-2 and mild NPDR with no prior laser or intravitreal treatment were followed for 2 years or until the development of CIME. Ophthalmological examinations, including BCVA, fundus photography with RetmarkerDR analysis, and optical coherence tomography were performed at baseline and months 6, 12, and 24.

RESULTS

One hundred and fifty eight eyes/patients reached either the study endpoint, CIME (n = 24), or performed the 24-month visit without developing CIME (n = 134). Fifty eyes/patients had SCME at baseline (31.6%). Of these 50 eyes, 16 (32.0%) developed CIME, whereas of the 108 eyes with normal retinal thickness (RT) at baseline, only 8 (7.4%) developed CIME (p < 0.001). Patients with increased RT in the central subfield at baseline showed a 12-fold risk of progression to CIME compared with patients without SCME.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with mild NPDR, the presence of SCME is a good predictor of progression to CIME.