Molecular surveillance detects high prevalence of the neglected parasite Mansonella ozzardi in the Colombian Amazon.

Mansonellosis is an undermapped insect-transmitted disease caused by filarial nematodes that are estimated to infect hundreds of millions of people globally. Despite their prevalence, there are many outstanding questions regarding the general biology and health impacts of the responsible parasites. Historical reports suggest that the Colombian Amazon is endemic for mansonellosis and may serve as an ideal location to pursue these questions in the backdrop of other endemic and emerging pathogens. We deployed molecular and classical diagnostic approaches to survey Mansonella prevalence among adults belonging to indigenous communities along the Amazon River and its tributaries near Leticia, Colombia. Deployment of a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay on blood samples revealed an infection prevalence of ∼40% for Mansonella ozzardi . This assay identified significantly more infections than blood smear microscopy or LAMP assays performed using plasma, likely reflecting greater sensitivity and the ability to detect low microfilaremias or occult infections. Mansonella infection rates increased with age and were higher among males compared to females. Genomic analysis confirmed the presence of M. ozzardi that clusters closely with strains sequenced in neighboring countries. We successfully cryopreserved and revitalized M. ozzardi microfilariae, advancing the prospects of rearing infective larvae in controlled settings. These data suggest an underestimation of true mansonellosis prevalence, and we expect that these methods will help facilitate the study of mansonellosis in endemic and laboratory settings.

Temporal and spatial expression of genes involved in DNA methylation during reproductive development of sexual and apomictic Eragrostis curvula.

Recent reports in model plant species have highlighted a role for DNA methylation pathways in the regulation of the somatic-to-reproductive transition in the ovule, suggesting that apomixis (asexual reproduction through seeds) likely relies on RdDM downregulation. Our aim was therefore to explore this hypothesis by characterizing genes involved in DNA methylation in the apomictic grass Eragrostis curvula. We explored floral transcriptomes to identify homologs of three candidate genes, for which mutations in Arabidopsis and maize mimic apomixis (AtAGO9/ZmAGO104, AtCMT3/ZmDMT102/ZmDMT105, and AtDDM1/ZmCHR106), and compared both their spatial and temporal expression patterns during reproduction in sexual and apomictic genotypes. Quantitative expression analyses revealed contrasting expression patterns for the three genes in apomictic vs sexual plants. In situ hybridization corroborated these results for two candidates, EcAGO104 and EcDMT102, and revealed an unexpected ectopic pattern for the AGO gene during germ line differentiation in apomicts. Although our data partially support previous results obtained in sexual plant models, they suggest that rather than an RdDM breakdown in the ovule, altered localization of AtAGO9/ZmAGO104 expression is required for achieving diplospory in E. curvula. The differences in the RdDM machinery acquired during plant evolution might have promoted the emergence of the numerous apomictic paths observed in plants.

Effects of the Ottonia martiana Miq. (Piperaceae) extract on dog's ocular surface / Efeitos do extrato de Ottonia martiana Miq. (Piperaceae) sobre a superfície ocular de cães

The anesthetics effects of aqueous extract of Ottonia martiana leaves were studied on the ocular surface of healthy beagle dogs. The dogs were divided in three groups (n=15): control group (CG), proxymetacaine group (PG) and Ottonia group (OG), which were treated with 0.9% saline, 0.5% proxymetacaine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution and O. martiana extract respectively. An oftalmic evaluation was performed before the treatments. Eye drops were instilled at time 0 (T0) and 3 minutes later (T3). Axial corneal sensitivity was evaluated by esthesiometry 5 and 10 minutes after T0. Tear production and intraocular pressure were evaluated 10 minutes after T0. Slit lamp biomicroscopy was performed 10 and 20 minutes after T0 and the eyes were stained with fluorescein 20 minutes after T0. The STT was reduced in PG. Conjunctival hyperemia was observed in 13 animals from PG and constituted the only ocular alteration observed during the study. Esthesiometry revealed a decreased corneal sensitivity for PG and OG. Those results show that the O. martiana extract acts reducing corneal sensitivity in dogs. Moreover, its use does not decrease the tear production and does not cause any clinical ophthalmic alteration.(AU)

Estudaram-se os efeitos do extrato das folhas de Ottonia martiana sobre a superfície ocular de cães hígidos da raça Beagle. Compuseram-se três grupos de tratamento (n=15): grupo controle (GC), grupo proximetacaína (GP) e grupo Ottonia (GO), tratados, respectivamente, com solução fisiológica, colírio de cloridrato de proximetacaína a 0,5% e extrato de O. martiana. Após avaliação oftálmica inicial, os tratamentos foram realizados no tempo 0 (T0) e decorridos 3min (T3). Avaliaram-se a sensibilidade axial da córnea por estesiometria (T5 e T10) e a produção lacrimal e a pressão ocular (T10). Realizaram-se a biomicroscopia com lâmpada em fenda (T10 e T20), e o teste do tingimento pela fluoresceína (T20). Relativamente ao teste de Schirmer, observou-se diminuição nos cães do GP. Houve alteração clínica somente nos do GP, em que 13 animais apresentaram hiperemia conjuntival. Relativamente à estesiometria, houve diminuição da sensibilidade corneal nos animais do GP e do GO. Admite-se que o extrato de O. martiana age diminuindo a sensibilidade corneal em cães e que sua utilização não diminui a produção lacrimal, tampouco causa alterações clínicas oftálmicas.(AU)

Effects of the Ottonia martiana Miq. (Piperaceae) extract on dog's ocular surface / Efeitos do extrato de Ottonia martiana Miq. (Piperaceae) sobre a superfície ocular de cães

The anesthetics effects of aqueous extract of Ottonia martiana leaves were studied on the ocular surface of healthy beagle dogs. The dogs were divided in three groups (n=15): control group (CG), proxymetacaine group (PG) and Ottonia group (OG), which were treated with 0.9% saline, 0.5% proxymetacaine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution and O. martiana extract respectively. An oftalmic evaluation was performed before the treatments. Eye drops were instilled at time 0 (T0) and 3 minutes later (T3). Axial corneal sensitivity was evaluated by esthesiometry 5 and 10 minutes after T0. Tear production and intraocular pressure were evaluated 10 minutes after T0. Slit lamp biomicroscopy was performed 10 and 20 minutes after T0 and the eyes were stained with fluorescein 20 minutes after T0. The STT was reduced in PG. Conjunctival hyperemia was observed in 13 animals from PG and constituted the only ocular alteration observed during the study. Esthesiometry revealed a decreased corneal sensitivity for PG and OG. Those results show that the O. martiana extract acts reducing corneal sensitivity in dogs. Moreover, its use does not decrease the tear production and does not cause any clinical ophthalmic alteration.

Estudaram-se os efeitos do extrato das folhas de Ottonia martiana sobre a superfície ocular de cães hígidos da raça Beagle. Compuseram-se três grupos de tratamento (n=15): grupo controle (GC), grupo proximetacaína (GP) e grupo Ottonia (GO), tratados, respectivamente, com solução fisiológica, colírio de cloridrato de proximetacaína a 0,5% e extrato de O. martiana. Após avaliação oftálmica inicial, os tratamentos foram realizados no tempo 0 (T0) e decorridos 3min (T3). Avaliaram-se a sensibilidade axial da córnea por estesiometria (T5 e T10) e a produção lacrimal e a pressão ocular (T10). Realizaram-se a biomicroscopia com lâmpada em fenda (T10 e T20), e o teste do tingimento pela fluoresceína (T20). Relativamente ao teste de Schirmer, observou-se diminuição nos cães do GP. Houve alteração clínica somente nos do GP, em que 13 animais apresentaram hiperemia conjuntival. Relativamente à estesiometria, houve diminuição da sensibilidade corneal nos animais do GP e do GO. Admite-se que o extrato de O. martiana age diminuindo a sensibilidade corneal em cães e que sua utilização não diminui a produção lacrimal, tampouco causa alterações clínicas oftálmicas.

Ultrasonographic analysis of senile cataractous lens of dogs and its correlation to phacoemulsification / Análise ultrassonográfica da lente cataratogênica senil de cães e sua correlação com parâmetros de facoemulsificação

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a computer-assisted ultrasound analysis of senile dogs cataractous lens and identify its correlation to phacoemulsification surgical parameters. Simultaneous A- and B- mode ultrasonic evaluation of the lens was performed on 15 dogs with cataract. A computer-assisted image analysis was used to objectively calculate the lens echogenicity. Following ultrasonographic examination the cataracts were removed by phacoemulsification and the ultrasonographic and phacoemulsification findings were compared to identify possible correlations. Lens echogenicity obtained by the computer-assisted ultrasonographic analysis correlated to the phacoemulsification time, such that the whiter the ultrasound image, the longer was the phacoemulsification time. The B-mode ultrasonography was helpful for the prediction of lens opacity location, but not predictive of lens hardness.

Avaliou-se a eficácia da análise ultrassonográfica, assistida por computador, da lente cataratogênica senil de cães e identificou-se sua correlação com parâmetros da facoemulsificação. A avaliação ultrassonográfica da lente em modos A e B simultâneos foi realizada em 15 cães portadores de catarata. Procedeu-se à análise das imagens, assistida por computador. Posteriormente, os olhos selecionados foram submetidos à facoemulsificação. Os achados ultrassonográficos e a facoemulsificação foram comparados visando à identificação de possíveis correlações. A ecogenicidade obtida por meio da análise ultrassonográfica correlacionou-se diretamente com o tempo de facoemulsificação, de maneira que quanto mais branca a imagem ultrassonográfica, maior o tempo de facoemulsificação. A ultrassonografia em modo-B auxiliou na predição da localização das opacidades lenticulares, porém não auxiliou na predição da dureza da lente.

Drag reduction by polyethylene glycol in the tail arterial bed of normotensive and hypertensive rats

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of drag reducer polymers (DRP) on arteries from normotensive (Wistar) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Polyethylene glycol (PEG 4000 at 5000 ppm) was perfused in the tail arterial bed with (E+) and without endothelium (E-) from male, adult Wistar (N = 14) and SHR (N = 13) animals under basal conditions (constant flow at 2.5 mL/min). In these preparations, flow-pressure curves (1.5 to 10 mL/min) were constructed before and 1 h after PEG 4000 perfusion. Afterwards, the tail arterial bed was fixed and the internal diameters of the arteries were then measured by microscopy and drag reduction was assessed based on the values of wall shear stress (WSS) by computational simulation. In Wistar and SHR groups, perfusion of PEG 4000 significantly reduced pulsatile pressure (Wistar/E+: 17.5 ± 2.8; SHR/E+: 16.3 ± 2.7 percent), WSS (Wistar/E+: 36; SHR/E+: 40 percent) and the flow-pressure response. The E- reduced the effects of PEG 4000 on arteries from both groups, suggesting that endothelial damage decreased the effect of PEG 4000 as a DRP. Moreover, the effects of PEG 4000 were more pronounced in the tail arterial bed from SHR compared to Wistar rats. In conclusion, these data demonstrated for the first time that PEG 4000 was more effective in reducing the pressure-flow response as well as WSS in the tail arterial bed of hypertensive than of normotensive rats and these effects were amplified by, but not dependent on, endothelial integrity. Thus, these results show an additional mechanism of action of this polymer besides its mechanical effect through the release and/or bioavailability of endothelial factors.

Drag reduction by polyethylene glycol in the tail arterial bed of normotensive and hypertensive rats.

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of drag reducer polymers (DRP) on arteries from normotensive (Wistar) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Polyethylene glycol (PEG 4000 at 5000 ppm) was perfused in the tail arterial bed with (E+) and without endothelium (E-) from male, adult Wistar (N = 14) and SHR (N = 13) animals under basal conditions (constant flow at 2.5 mL/min). In these preparations, flow-pressure curves (1.5 to 10 mL/min) were constructed before and 1 h after PEG 4000 perfusion. Afterwards, the tail arterial bed was fixed and the internal diameters of the arteries were then measured by microscopy and drag reduction was assessed based on the values of wall shear stress (WSS) by computational simulation. In Wistar and SHR groups, perfusion of PEG 4000 significantly reduced pulsatile pressure (Wistar/E+: 17.5 ± 2.8; SHR/E+: 16.3 ± 2.7%), WSS (Wistar/E+: 36; SHR/E+: 40%) and the flow-pressure response. The E- reduced the effects of PEG 4000 on arteries from both groups, suggesting that endothelial damage decreased the effect of PEG 4000 as a DRP. Moreover, the effects of PEG 4000 were more pronounced in the tail arterial bed from SHR compared to Wistar rats. In conclusion, these data demonstrated for the first time that PEG 4000 was more effective in reducing the pressure-flow response as well as WSS in the tail arterial bed of hypertensive than of normotensive rats and these effects were amplified by, but not dependent on, endothelial integrity. Thus, these results show an additional mechanism of action of this polymer besides its mechanical effect through the release and/or bioavailability of endothelial factors.

Superficial keratectomy and 360º conjunctival flap for bullous keratopathy in a dog: a case report / Recobrimento conjuntival em 360º e ceratectomia superficial na ceratite bolhosa em cão: relato de caso

A case of a two-year-old male Pinscher with a history of discomfort in the right eye was reported. The left eye had been enucleated by the referring veterinarian due to the same symptom with unsuccessful clinical treatment. The Schirmer tear test value was elevated and a decreased intraocular pressure was observed by applanation tonometry. Biomicroscopy revealed profuse corneal edema and keratoconus and fluorescein staining was negative. Gonioscopy and ophthalmoscopy did not provide any relevant data due to the corneal alterations. Bullous keratopathy was diagnosed. Surgery was performed in two steps: 1) superficial keratectomy and 360º conjunctival flap, and 2) superficial keratectomy to restore corneal transparency. Thirty days after the second superficial keratectomy, the third eyelid flap was removed. Conjunctivalization of the upper nasal quadrant of the cornea was observed. The axial portion of the cornea was transparent and vision was restored.(AU)

Relata-se o caso ocorrido em um cão, da raça Pinscher, com dois anos de idade e histórico de desconforto no olho direito. O olho esquerdo havia sido enucleado por outro profissional, por apresentar os mesmos sinais, cujo tratamento clínico instituído não lograra êxito. O valor do teste da lágrima de Schirmer encontrava-se aumentado e identificou-se diminuição da pressão intraocular à tonometria de aplanação. Observaram-se, à biomicroscopia, edema corneal profuso e ceratocone, e o teste da fluoresceína foi negativo. Gonioscopia e oftalmoscopia não lograram fornecer dados relevantes dadas as condições da córnea. Diagnosticou-se ceratite bolhosa. Optou-se pelo tratamento cirúrgico, que fora realizado em duas etapas: 1- ceratectomia superficial e "flap" conjuntival de 360º; 2- ceratectomia superficial para devolver transparência à córnea. Transcorridos 30 dias da segunda ceratectomia superficial, o "flap" de terceira pálpebra foi desfeito. Observou-se conjuntivalização do quadrante nasal superior da córnea, córnea clara no eixo visual e retorno da visão.(AU)

Recobrimento conjuntival em 360º e ceratectomia superficial na ceratite bolhosa em cão: relato de caso / Superficial keratectomy and 360º conjunctival flap for bullous keratopathy in a dog: a case report

A case of a two-year-old male Pinscher with a history of discomfort in the right eye was reported. The left eye had been enucleated by the referring veterinarian due to the same symptom with unsuccessful clinical treatment. The Schirmer tear test value was elevated and a decreased intraocular pressure was observed by applanation tonometry. Biomicroscopy revealed profuse corneal edema and keratoconus and fluorescein staining was negative. Gonioscopy and ophthalmoscopy did not provide any relevant data due to the corneal alterations. Bullous keratopathy was diagnosed. Surgery was performed in two steps: 1) superficial keratectomy and 360º conjunctival flap, and 2) superficial keratectomy to restore corneal transparency. Thirty days after the second superficial keratectomy, the third eyelid flap was removed. Conjunctivalization of the upper nasal quadrant of the cornea was observed. The axial portion of the cornea was transparent and vision was restored.

Relata-se o caso ocorrido em um cão, da raça Pinscher, com dois anos de idade e histórico de desconforto no olho direito. O olho esquerdo havia sido enucleado por outro profissional, por apresentar os mesmos sinais, cujo tratamento clínico instituído não lograra êxito. O valor do teste da lágrima de Schirmer encontrava-se aumentado e identificou-se diminuição da pressão intraocular à tonometria de aplanação. Observaram-se, à biomicroscopia, edema corneal profuso e ceratocone, e o teste da fluoresceína foi negativo. Gonioscopia e oftalmoscopia não lograram fornecer dados relevantes dadas as condições da córnea. Diagnosticou-se ceratite bolhosa. Optou-se pelo tratamento cirúrgico, que fora realizado em duas etapas: 1- ceratectomia superficial e "flap" conjuntival de 360º; 2- ceratectomia superficial para devolver transparência à córnea. Transcorridos 30 dias da segunda ceratectomia superficial, o "flap" de terceira pálpebra foi desfeito. Observou-se conjuntivalização do quadrante nasal superior da córnea, córnea clara no eixo visual e retorno da visão.

Ultrasonographic analysis of senile cataractous lens of dogs and its correlation to phacoemulsification / Análise ultrassonográfica da lente cataratogênica senil de cães e sua correlação com parâmetros de facoemulsificação

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a computer-assisted ultrasound analysis of senile dogs cataractous lens and identify its correlation to phacoemulsification surgical parameters. Simultaneous A- and B- mode ultrasonic evaluation of the lens was performed on 15 dogs with cataract. A computer-assisted image analysis was used to objectively calculate the lens echogenicity. Following ultrasonographic examination the cataracts were removed by phacoemulsification and the ultrasonographic and phacoemulsification findings were compared to identify possible correlations. Lens echogenicity obtained by the computer-assisted ultrasonographic analysis correlated to the phacoemulsification time, such that the whiter the ultrasound image, the longer was the phacoemulsification time. The B-mode ultrasonography was helpful for the prediction of lens opacity location, but not predictive of lens hardness.(AU)

Avaliou-se a eficácia da análise ultrassonográfica, assistida por computador, da lente cataratogênica senil de cães e identificou-se sua correlação com parâmetros da facoemulsificação. A avaliação ultrassonográfica da lente em modos A e B simultâneos foi realizada em 15 cães portadores de catarata. Procedeu-se à análise das imagens, assistida por computador. Posteriormente, os olhos selecionados foram submetidos à facoemulsificação. Os achados ultrassonográficos e a facoemulsificação foram comparados visando à identificação de possíveis correlações. A ecogenicidade obtida por meio da análise ultrassonográfica correlacionou-se diretamente com o tempo de facoemulsificação, de maneira que quanto mais branca a imagem ultrassonográfica, maior o tempo de facoemulsificação. A ultrassonografia em modo-B auxiliou na predição da localização das opacidades lenticulares, porém não auxiliou na predição da dureza da lente.(AU)

Intraocular pressure and its correlation with blood gas parameters in crested caracaras (Caracara plancus) anesthetized with isoflurane and sevoflurane / Pressão intra-ocular e sua correlação com parâmetros hemogasométricos em caracarás (Caracara plancus) anestesiados com isofluorano e sevofluorano

The intraocular pressure (IOP) and its correlations with arterial carbon dioxide partial pressure (PaCO2) and arterial pH were studied in five crested caracaras (Caracara plancus) anesthetized with isoflurane (ISO) and sevoflurane (SEV). Baseline IOP values were measured in both eyes (M0). Brachial artery was previously catheterized to obtain blood gas and cardiorespiratory analysis. Anesthesia was induced with 5 percent ISO and maintained with 2.5 percent for 40 minutes. IOP measurements and blood samples were evaluated in different moments until the end of the procedure. After recovering, a second anesthesia was induced with 6 percent SEV and maintained with 3.5 percent. Parameters were evaluated at the same time points of the previous procedure. IOP reduced significantly (P= 0.012) from M0 at all time points and no significative changes were observed between ISO and SEV anesthesias. Correlation between IOP and PaCO2 and between PIO and blood pH were found only for SEV. IOP and blood pH decreased in parallel with IOP, whereas values of PaCO2 increased in caracaras anesthetized with isoflurane and sevoflurane.(AU)

Avaliou-se a pressão intra-ocular (PIO) e estimaram-se as correlações entre PIO e pressão de dióxido de carbono (PaCO2) e pH arterial de cinco caracarás (Caracara plancus), anestesiados com isofluorano (ISO) ou sevofluorano (SEV). Valores basais da PIO foram aferidos em ambos os olhos (M0). Cateterizou-se previamente a artéria braquial para obtenção de parâmetros hemogasométricos e cardiorrespiratórios. Anestesia foi induzida com ISO a 5V por cento e mantida por 40 minutos com 2,5V por cento. PIO e amostras de sangue foram avaliadas em diferentes momentos até o final do procedimento. Após recuperação, uma segunda anestesia foi realizada com SEV a 6 por cento e mantida com 3,5 por cento. Os parâmetros foram aferidos nos mesmos momentos estabelecidos previamente. A PIO decresceu significativamente (P=0,012) de M0 em todos os momentos e não houve diferença estatística entre ISO e SEV. Correlações significativas entre PIO e PaCO2 e entre PIO e pH sangüíneo foram observadas apenas para a anestesia com SEV. O pH sangüíneo decresceu paralelamente a PIO, enquanto a PaCO2 aumentou, em carcarás anestesiados com isofluorano e sevofluorano.(AU)

Hemangiosarcoma of the nictitant membrane in a Brazilian Fila dog: case report / Hemangiosarcoma em membrana nictitante de cão da ração Fila Brasileiro: relato de caso

It was reported a case of a 9-year-old Brazilian Fila male dog that had been affected by a tissular formation of the nictitant membrane of the right eye with four months of evolution. Conjunctival hyperemia and edema, serosanguinolent secretion, and a conjunctival neoformation at the nictitant membrane were observed. Surgical exeresis of the neoformation was performed. Endothelial cells slightly differentiated and pleomorphic, with an intense vascular neoformation compatible to nictitant membrane hemangiosarcoma, were found at the histological exam.(AU)

Relata-se o caso de um cão, macho, da raça Fila Brasileiro, com nove anos de idade, acometido por neoformação tecidual na membrana nictitante do olho direito, com cerca de quatro meses de evolução. Realizou-se exame oftálmico rotineiro, a partir do qual se notaram hiperemia e edema conjuntivais, secreção ocular serossangüinolenta e neoformação saliente na conjuntiva da membrana nictitante. Realizou-se a exérese cirúrgica da neoformação. À histopatologia, encontraram-se células endoteliais pouco diferenciadas e pleomórficas que originavam intensa neoformação vascular, compatíveis com hemangiossarcoma da membrana nictitante.(AU)

Hemangiosarcoma of the nictitant membrane in a Brazilian Fila dog: case report / Hemangiosarcoma em membrana nictitante de cão da ração Fila Brasileiro: relato de caso

It was reported a case of a 9-year-old Brazilian Fila male dog that had been affected by a tissular formation of the nictitant membrane of the right eye with four months of evolution. Conjunctival hyperemia and edema, serosanguinolent secretion, and a conjunctival neoformation at the nictitant membrane were observed. Surgical exeresis of the neoformation was performed. Endothelial cells slightly differentiated and pleomorphic, with an intense vascular neoformation compatible to nictitant membrane hemangiosarcoma, were found at the histological exam.

Relata-se o caso de um cão, macho, da raça Fila Brasileiro, com nove anos de idade, acometido por neoformação tecidual na membrana nictitante do olho direito, com cerca de quatro meses de evolução. Realizou-se exame oftálmico rotineiro, a partir do qual se notaram hiperemia e edema conjuntivais, secreção ocular serossangüinolenta e neoformação saliente na conjuntiva da membrana nictitante. Realizou-se a exérese cirúrgica da neoformação. À histopatologia, encontraram-se células endoteliais pouco diferenciadas e pleomórficas que originavam intensa neoformação vascular, compatíveis com hemangiossarcoma da membrana nictitante.

Intraocular pressure and its correlation with blood gas parameters in crested caracaras (Caracara plancus) anesthetized with isoflurane and sevoflurane / Pressão intra-ocular e sua correlação com parâmetros hemogasométricos em caracarás (Caracara plancus) anestesiados com isofluorano e sevofluorano

The intraocular pressure (IOP) and its correlations with arterial carbon dioxide partial pressure (PaCO2) and arterial pH were studied in five crested caracaras (Caracara plancus) anesthetized with isoflurane (ISO) and sevoflurane (SEV). Baseline IOP values were measured in both eyes (M0). Brachial artery was previously catheterized to obtain blood gas and cardiorespiratory analysis. Anesthesia was induced with 5 percent ISO and maintained with 2.5 percent for 40 minutes. IOP measurements and blood samples were evaluated in different moments until the end of the procedure. After recovering, a second anesthesia was induced with 6 percent SEV and maintained with 3.5 percent. Parameters were evaluated at the same time points of the previous procedure. IOP reduced significantly (P= 0.012) from M0 at all time points and no significative changes were observed between ISO and SEV anesthesias. Correlation between IOP and PaCO2 and between PIO and blood pH were found only for SEV. IOP and blood pH decreased in parallel with IOP, whereas values of PaCO2 increased in caracaras anesthetized with isoflurane and sevoflurane.

Avaliou-se a pressão intra-ocular (PIO) e estimaram-se as correlações entre PIO e pressão de dióxido de carbono (PaCO2) e pH arterial de cinco caracarás (Caracara plancus), anestesiados com isofluorano (ISO) ou sevofluorano (SEV). Valores basais da PIO foram aferidos em ambos os olhos (M0). Cateterizou-se previamente a artéria braquial para obtenção de parâmetros hemogasométricos e cardiorrespiratórios. Anestesia foi induzida com ISO a 5V por cento e mantida por 40 minutos com 2,5V por cento. PIO e amostras de sangue foram avaliadas em diferentes momentos até o final do procedimento. Após recuperação, uma segunda anestesia foi realizada com SEV a 6 por cento e mantida com 3,5 por cento. Os parâmetros foram aferidos nos mesmos momentos estabelecidos previamente. A PIO decresceu significativamente (P=0,012) de M0 em todos os momentos e não houve diferença estatística entre ISO e SEV. Correlações significativas entre PIO e PaCO2 e entre PIO e pH sangüíneo foram observadas apenas para a anestesia com SEV. O pH sangüíneo decresceu paralelamente a PIO, enquanto a PaCO2 aumentou, em carcarás anestesiados com isofluorano e sevofluorano.

Amastigota forms resembling Leishmania sp. on corneal ulceration in a dog: case report

One dog with visceral leishmaniasis is reported presenting cutaneous lesions, cachexia, and corneal ulceration. Parasitological and serological diagnoses were performed by exam of contents of the aspirative punction of the bone marrow and by immunofluorecence, respectively. Amastigota forms resembling Leishmania sp. were visualized by citology.

Relata-se o caso de um cão com leishmaniose visceral apresentando lesões cutâneas, caquexia e úlcera de córnea. Realizou-se o diagnóstico parasitológico e sorológico por meio de exame do material da medula óssea e por imunofluorescência indireta, respectivamente. A citologia da úlcera corneana, visibilizaram-se formas amastigotas compatíveis com Leishmania sp.

Amastigota forms resembling Leishmania sp. on corneal ulceration in a dog: case report / Formas amastigotas compatíveis com Leishmania sp. em ulceração corneal de cão: relato de caso

One dog with visceral leishmaniasis is reported presenting cutaneous lesions, cachexia, and corneal ulceration. Parasitological and serological diagnoses were performed by exam of contents of the aspirative punction of the bone marrow and by immunofluorecence, respectively. Amastigota forms resembling Leishmania sp. were visualized by citology.(AU)

Relata-se o caso de um cão com leishmaniose visceral apresentando lesões cutâneas, caquexia e úlcera de córnea. Realizou-se o diagnóstico parasitológico e sorológico por meio de exame do material da medula óssea e por imunofluorescência indireta, respectivamente. A citologia da úlcera corneana, visibilizaram-se formas amastigotas compatíveis com Leishmania sp.(AU)

Uveitis due to anaplasmosis in a newborn Holstein calf

Relata-se o caso de um bovino com, aproximadamente, seis horas de vida, apresentando histórico de febre, apatia, inapetência e desconforto ocular. No exame oftálmico rotineiro, encontraram-se valores do teste da lágrima de Schirmer aumentados, diminuição da pressão intra-ocular, hemorragia conjuntival, uveíte anterior, edema corneal e injeção ciliar em ambos os olhos. Coletou-se amostra de sangue para realização de esfregaço sangüíneo, hemograma e bioquímica sérica. No esfregaço visibilizaram-se corpúsculos de Anaplasma marginale em hemácias parasitadas. Quanto à bioquímica sérica, não foram observadas alterações. Os mesmos exames foram realizados na mãe do animal tendo como resultado a positividade para A. marginale. Para o controle da uveíte foi utilizada uma única aplicação de 0,5ml de betametasona a 5 por cento, por via subconjuntival, em cada um dos olhos. Para o tratamento da anaplasmose, seguiu-se o protocolo a base de 10mg/kg de oxitetraciclina, por via intramuscular profunda, a cada 12 horas. Diante os achados oftálmicos e a presença de corpúsculos de A. marginale em hemácias parasitadas, contatou-se, ser um caso de uveíte crônica secundaria a doença sistêmica, factível com Anaplasmose.

Uveitis due to anaplasmosis in a newborn Holstein calf / Uveíte por anaplasmose em bezerro da raça Holandesa

Relata-se o caso de um bovino com, aproximadamente, seis horas de vida, apresentando histórico de febre, apatia, inapetência e desconforto ocular. No exame oftálmico rotineiro, encontraram-se valores do teste da lágrima de Schirmer aumentados, diminuição da pressão intra-ocular, hemorragia conjuntival, uveíte anterior, edema corneal e injeção ciliar em ambos os olhos. Coletou-se amostra de sangue para realização de esfregaço sangüíneo, hemograma e bioquímica sérica. No esfregaço visibilizaram-se corpúsculos de Anaplasma marginale em hemácias parasitadas. Quanto à bioquímica sérica, não foram observadas alterações. Os mesmos exames foram realizados na mãe do animal tendo como resultado a positividade para A. marginale. Para o controle da uveíte foi utilizada uma única aplicação de 0,5ml de betametasona a 5%, por via subconjuntival, em cada um dos olhos. Para o tratamento da anaplasmose, seguiu-se o protocolo a base de 10mg/kg de oxitetraciclina, por via intramuscular profunda, a cada 12 horas. Diante os achados oftálmicos e a presença de corpúsculos de A. marginale em hemácias parasitadas, contatou-se, ser um caso de uveíte crônica secundaria a doença sistêmica, factível com Anaplasmose.(AU)

Tetraploid races of Paspalum notatum show polysomic inheritance and preferential chromosome pairing around the apospory-controlling locus.

The objective of this work was to determine the type of inheritance (disomic/polysomic) in tetraploid (2 n=4 x=40) Paspalum notatum and investigate the transmission pattern of the chromosome region associated with apospory. An F(1) family segregating for the reproductive mode (aposporous vs non-aposporous) was generated by crossing a tetraploid sexual plant as female parent with an apomictic individual as pollen donor. Pollen mother cells from both parental plants were examined to ascertain chromosome-pairing behavior at meiosis. The high rate of quadrivalent chromosome associations indicated an autotetraploid origin of the species, although bivalent pairing and occasional univalents were detected. The observation of a lagging bivalent, a bridge of chromatin, or two aligned laggards in the aposporous parent suggested a chromosome inversion in this strain. Segregation ratios of AFLP markers and the proportion of linkages in repulsion versus coupling phase denoted tetrasomic inheritance, but markers displaying disomic ratios were also observed. Preferential chromosome pairing (disomic inheritance) in the chromosome segment related to apospory was detected. The possible relationship between a chromosome rearrangement and the inheritance of apospory is discussed.

Isolation of cDNA clones differentially expressed in flowers of apomictic and sexual Paspalum notatum.

Paspalum notatum is a subtropical forage grass, which reproduces by either sexuality or aposporous gametophytic apomixis. The objective of this work was to identify and isolate mRNA transcripts differentially expressed during the development of the megagametophyte from spikelets of apomictic and sexual P. notatum. Crossing of a sexual mother plant with an apomictic pollen donor generated a progeny family segregating for reproductive mode. Individuals from this F1 family were cytoembryologically classified as sexual or apomictic. Spikelet mRNA compositions from both groups of plants were compared by differential display using an RNA-bulked procedure. Fifty primer combinations were assayed to generate nearly 2,500 total bands in the fingerprints. Three transcripts expressed at higher levels in apomictic plants (apo417, apo398, and apo396) were identified, isolated and cloned. Sequencing showed a high level of homology among the isolated clones. Analysis by RT-PCR Southern blots followed by densitometric studies confirmed that expression reached a level around 30 times higher in apomictic than in sexual individuals and was probably induced at early stages of the megagametophyte development. Genomic DNA from the parental and the F1 progeny plants showed 4-5 bands when hybridised with apo417 in Southern blots. Comparisons to the sequence data banks revealed no identities to genes of known function. However, a putative deduced 3' protein fragment showed homology to the well-characterised KSP multi-phosphorylation domain previously detected in several cdc2-regulated cytoskeletal proteins.