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Olin S, Schildt J, Lane M, Odunayo A, Springer C, Call D, Jones S, Geiser D, Millis D, Drum M. The effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on snake-bite-associated wounds in dogs. J Vet Emerg Crit Care (San Antonio) 2024. [PMID: 38761038 DOI: 10.1111/vec.13383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) on Crotalinae envenomation-induced wound swelling and severity and pain in dogs, and to describe the safety and complications of HBOT. DESIGN Prospective, randomized, controlled, blinded study (2017-2021). SETTING University teaching hospital, private veterinary practice. ANIMALS Thirty-six client-owned dogs presenting within 24 hours of a confirmed or suspected naturally occurring Crotalinae snake bite injury were enrolled between 2017 and 2021. INTERVENTIONS In addition to the standard of care treatment, dogs received 2 interventions with either HBOT (n = 19) or control (n = 16) within 24 hours of hospital admission. Dogs receiving HBOT were pressurized over 15 minutes (1 psi/min), maintained at a target pressure of 2 atmosphere absolute (ATA) for 30 minutes, and decompressed over 15 minutes. Control dogs received 1 ATA for 1 hour. Local wound swelling, wound severity score, and pain score were assessed at admission, before and after each intervention, and at hospital discharge. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS There was no significant difference in wound swelling (P = 0.414), severity score (P = 1.000), or pain score (P = 0.689) between HBOT and control groups. Pain decreased significantly over time regardless of the study intervention (P < 0.001). There were no major adverse effects associated with either study intervention. CONCLUSIONS HBOT did not significantly alter the short-term recovery from Crotalinae envenomation in this study population. However, the study might be underpowered to detect a significant treatment effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelly Olin
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Science, University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Julie Schildt
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Science, University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | | | - Adesola Odunayo
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Cary Springer
- Research Computing Support, Office of Information Technology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Dana Call
- Neel Veterinary Hospital, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Selene Jones
- Allergy Skin and Ear Clinic for Pets, Livonia, Michigan, USA
| | - Dennis Geiser
- Hospital Administration, University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Daryl Millis
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Science, University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Marti Drum
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Science, University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
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Shu F, Lyu B, Guo K, Zhang T, Mi X, Li L, Wu Y, Guo P. Rediscovery of Lycodongammiei (Blanford, 1878) (Serpentes, Colubridae) in Xizang, China, with comments on its systematic position. Zookeys 2024; 1200:65-74. [PMID: 38751966 PMCID: PMC11094397 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1200.117260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Lycodongammiei (Blanford, 1878), a rarely encountered species of Asian snake, is characterized by ambiguous systematics and biology. Based on a sole specimen of L.gammiei rediscovered in southeastern Xizang, China, we conduct a detailed morphological examination and description, and investigate the systematic position of this species. Morphologically, the newly collected specimen is closely aligned with specimens previously described. Mitochondrial DNA-based phylogenetic analyses reveal that L.gammiei constitutes an independent evolutionary lineage, forming a clade with L.fasciatus (Anderson, 1879), L.gongshan Vogel & Luo, 2011, L.butleri Boulenger, 1900, and L.cavernicolus Grismer, Quah, Anuar, Muin, Wood & Nor, 2014. The closest genetic distance between L.gammiei and its congeners was 10.2%. The discovery of L.gammiei in Medog County, China, signifies an eastward expansion of its known geographical distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu Shu
- Central South Academy of Inventory and Planning of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Changsha 410014, ChinaCentral South Academy of Inventory and Planning of National Forestry and Grassland AdministrationChangshaChina
| | - Bing Lyu
- Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Food Engineering, Yibin University, Yibin 644005, ChinaYibin UniversityYibinChina
| | - Keji Guo
- Central South Academy of Inventory and Planning of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Changsha 410014, ChinaCentral South Academy of Inventory and Planning of National Forestry and Grassland AdministrationChangshaChina
| | - Tong Zhang
- Central South Academy of Inventory and Planning of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Changsha 410014, ChinaCentral South Academy of Inventory and Planning of National Forestry and Grassland AdministrationChangshaChina
| | - Xiaoqi Mi
- College of Agriculture and Forestry Engineering and Planning, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Biodiversity Conservation and Utilization in the Fanjing Mountain Region, Tongren University, Tongren 554300, Guizhou, ChinaTongren UniversityTongrenChina
| | - Li Li
- Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Food Engineering, Yibin University, Yibin 644005, ChinaYibin UniversityYibinChina
| | - Yayong Wu
- Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Food Engineering, Yibin University, Yibin 644005, ChinaYibin UniversityYibinChina
| | - Peng Guo
- Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Food Engineering, Yibin University, Yibin 644005, ChinaYibin UniversityYibinChina
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Akat Çömden E, Yenmiş M, Kytyr D, Ayaz D, Bayrakci Y. A study on the vertebral column of the dice snake Natrix tessellata (Serpentes, Natricidae) from Denizli (western Anatolia, Turkey). Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2024; 307:1930-1942. [PMID: 37746926 DOI: 10.1002/ar.25328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
The vertebral anatomy of snakes has attracted the attention of researchers for decades and numerous studies have been made for extinct and extant species. The present study investigated the morphological variations in vertebral structure among different vertebral regions in the dice snake Natrix tessellata, and provides a detailed anatomical and microstructural description of the vertebral column. Vertebrae were analyzed and compared using x-ray imaging, scanning electron microscopy, micro-computed tomography, and histological techniques. The vertebral column of N. tessellata is divided into three regions: precloacal, cloacal, and caudal. Unlike in many other tetrapods and snakes, the atlas of N. tessellata does not form a complete ring. It has a flat and roughly trilobate shape with a prominent middle lobe. The axis has two hypapophyses. The anterior precloacal region of the vertebral column has longer and more paddle-shaped hypapophyses, distinguishing it from the posterior and mid-trunk vertebrae. The anterior cloacal vertebrae have a short hypapophysis rather than a hemal keel, and the lymphapophysis extends outward, curving slightly. The cotyle and condyle of the caudal vertebrae exhibited a closer resemblance to a rounded shape, while the pleurapophysis extended ventrolaterally and curved ventrally near its distal end. Paired hemapophyses were present at the posterior-most point of the centrum instead of a hypapophysis. In light of previous fossil findings, our anatomical comparison of the vertebral and transverse processes indicates that the extant Natrix has a more flexible and less rigid spine than its ancestors. Overall, the vertebral differences among snake anatomical regions or taxa are a testament to the remarkable diversity and adaptability of these fascinating reptiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esra Akat Çömden
- Science Faculty, Biology Department, Zoology Section, Ege University, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Melodi Yenmiş
- Science Faculty, Biology Department, Zoology Section, Ege University, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Daniel Kytyr
- Institute of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 9, Czech Republic
| | - Dinçer Ayaz
- Science Faculty, Biology Department, Zoology Section, Ege University, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Bayrakci
- Science Faculty, Biology Department, Zoology Section, Ege University, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
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Abstract
Snake venom contains a cocktail of compounds dominated by proteins and peptides, which make up the toxin. The toxin components of snake venom attack several targets in the human body including the neuromuscular system, kidney and blood coagulation system and cause pathologies. As such, the venom toxins can be managed and used for the treatment of these diseases. In this regard, Captopril used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases was the first animal venom toxin-based drug approved by the US Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency. Cancers cause morbidity and mortality worldwide. Due to side effects associated with the current cancer treatments including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy and surgery, there is a need to improve the efficacy of current treatments and/or develop novel drugs from natural sources including animal toxin-based drugs. There is a long history of earlier and ongoing studies implicating snake venom toxins as potential anticancer therapies. Here, we review the role of crude snake venoms and toxins including phospholipase A2, L-amino acid oxidase, C-type lectin and disintegrin as potential anticancer agents tested in cancer cell lines and animal tumour models in comparison to normal cell lines. Some of the anti-tumour activities of snake venom toxins include induction of cytotoxicity, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest and inhibition of metastasis, angiogenesis and tumour growth. We thus propose the advancement of multidisciplinary approaches to more pre-clinical and clinical studies for enhanced bioavailability and targeted delivery of snake venom toxin-based anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedict C Offor
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, South Africa
| | - Lizelle A Piater
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, South Africa
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Cortés-Fossati F, Méndez M. Comparative medical importance of spider bites in Spain over 1997-2020: a retrospective study based on hospital cases coded using ICD. J Med Entomol 2024:tjae045. [PMID: 38598337 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjae045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Envenomation by terrestrial toxic animals is considered a serious risk to human health worldwide. Snakes, hymenopterans, spiders, and scorpions have mainly attracted the attention of medical literature. However, the relative importance of spiders has been studied only in a few countries. Here, we present the first retrospective study on the incidence of spider bites requiring hospital care in Spain, compared to bites or stings from snakes, hymenopterans, and scorpions. Using ICD9MC and ICD10 databases from the World Health Organization's International Classification of Diseases for the period 1997-2020, we quantified the cases of envenomation by spiders, compared to those by other terrestrial toxic animals, the demographic data of envenomation cases, the relative severity of spider bites, and the geographic distribution of envenomation cases. Overall, the incidence of acute intoxication by terrestrial toxic animals in Spain was ca. 1.23 cases per million inhabitants. In decreasing order of importance, cases were due to snakes, hymenopterans, spiders, scorpions, and myriapods. Fatal cases were extremely rare, caused mainly by hymenopterans. No fatalities were caused by spiders, scorpions, and myriapods. A greater incidence of snake bites occurred in northern Spain, but no geographical trends were found for spider bites or scorpion stings. Severe poisoning or life-threatening cases due to bites or stings from toxic terrestrial animals in Spain seems to be very low, especially for spiders, compared to other countries in the world. In general, spiders do not present a risk to human health and should not be considered a major driver of morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Cortés-Fossati
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Area of Biodiversity and Conservation, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, c/ Tulipán s/n., E-28933 Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marcos Méndez
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Area of Biodiversity and Conservation, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, c/ Tulipán s/n., E-28933 Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
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Lyu B, Liu Q, Wu Y, Nguyen TQ, Che J, Nguyen SN, Myers EA, Burbrink FT, Guo P, Wang J. Genomic analysis reveals deep population divergence in the water snake Trimerodytes percarinatus (Serpentes, Natricidae). Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11278. [PMID: 38628918 PMCID: PMC11019134 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Although several phylogeographic studies of Asian snakes have been conducted, most have focused on pitvipers, with non-venomous snakes, such as colubrids or natricids, remaining poorly studied. The Chinese keelback water snake (Trimerodytes percarinatus Boulenger) is a widespread, semiaquatic, non-venomous species occurring in China and southeastern Asia. Based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data, we explored the population genetic structure, genetic diversity, and evolutionary history of this species. MtDNA-based phylogenetic analysis showed that T. percarinatus was composed of five highly supported and geographically structured lineages. SNP-based phylogenetic analysis, principal component analysis, and population structure analysis consistently revealed four distinct, geographically non-overlapping lineages, which was different from the mtDNA-based analysis in topology. Estimation of divergence dates and ancestral area of origin suggest that T. percarinatus originated ~12.68 million years ago (95% highest posterior density: 10.36-15.96 Mya) in a region covering southwestern China and Vietnam. Intraspecific divergence may have been triggered by the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau uplift. Population demographics and ecological niche modeling indicated that the effective population size fluctuated during 0.5 Mya and 0.002 Mya. Based on the data collected here, we also comment on the intraspecific taxonomy of T. percarinatus and question the validity of the subspecies T. p. suriki.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Lyu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life SciencesHainan Normal UniversityHaikouChina
- Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Food EngineeringYibin UniversityYibinChina
| | - Qin Liu
- Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Food EngineeringYibin UniversityYibinChina
| | - Yayong Wu
- Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Food EngineeringYibin UniversityYibinChina
| | - Truong Q. Nguyen
- Institute of Ecology and Biological ResourcesVietnam Academy of Science and TechnologyHanoiVietnam
- Vietnam Academy of Science and TechnologyGraduate University of Science and TechnologyHanoiVietnam
| | - Jing Che
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution & Yunnan Key Laboratory of Biodiversity and Ecological Conservation of Gaoligong Mountain, Kunming Institute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesKunmingChina
| | - Sang N. Nguyen
- Institute of Tropical BiologyVietnam Academy of Science and TechnologyHo Chi Minh CityVietnam
| | - Edward A. Myers
- Department of HerpetologyCalifornia Academy of SciencesSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Frank T. Burbrink
- Department of HerpetologyAmerican Museum of Natural HistoryNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Peng Guo
- Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Food EngineeringYibin UniversityYibinChina
| | - Jichao Wang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life SciencesHainan Normal UniversityHaikouChina
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Cañas CA, Erazo-Martinez V, Pérez-Uribe V, Castaño-Valencia S, Castro-Herrera F. Envenomation by Eyelash Viper Bothriechis schlegelii (Berthold, 1846) in Southwestern Colombia. Wilderness Environ Med 2024; 35:30-35. [PMID: 38379478 DOI: 10.1177/10806032231222353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Bothriechis schlegelii is a Crotaline viperid species of Central America and Northern South America. The characteristics of its envenomation have not been well established. We present clinical characteristics of human cases evaluated and treated in a hospital in southwestern Colombia. METHODS We evaluated data from patients who suffered Bothriechis schlegelii envenomation and were seen at Fundación Valle del Lili Hospital, Cali, Colombia between 2011 and 2022. RESULTS Eight patients were included, with a median age of 24 years. Snakebites occurred in rural areas. Six (75%) patients were bitten on the upper extremities in relation to the arboreal habits of this animal. The most common symptoms were pain and edema (N = 8, 100%), ecchymoses (N = 2, 25%), and paresthesia (N = 2, 25%). The most common systemic findings were hypofibrinogenemia (N = 8, 100%) and prolonged prothrombin time in five patients (N = 5, 62.5%). All were treated with polyvalent antivenom for Colombian snakes, with a good response and outcome. CONCLUSIONS Most bite sites from B. schlegelii were on the upper limbs. All patients had both local manifestations, including edema, pain, and systemic effects with hypofibrinogenemia, but none had systemic bleeding. Every patient received antivenom and had favorable outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos A Cañas
- Universidad Icesi, CIRAT: Centro de Investigación en Reumatología, Autoinmunidad y Medicina Traslacional, Cali, Colombia
- Fundación Valle del Lili, Unidad de Reumatología, Cali, Colombia
| | | | | | - Santiago Castaño-Valencia
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Basic Sciences School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia
| | - Fernando Castro-Herrera
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Basic Sciences School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia
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Levine BA, Moresco A, Trout T, Schuett GW, Booth W. Female long-term sperm storage results in viable offspring in the Himalayan Mountain Pitviper, Ovophis monticola. Zoo Biol 2024; 43:183-187. [PMID: 38234126 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
The ability of females to store sperm for extended periods in their reproductive tracts (termed long-term sperm storage, LTSS) has been reported across a diversity of vertebrate taxa. The evolutionary, ecological, and physiological significance of LTSS is wide-ranging and includes the ability to produce offspring when mates may be temporally scarce by way of decoupling copulation from ovulation, inbreeding avoidance, and the generation and maintenance of genetic diversity in progeny. Among vertebrate lineages, nonavian reptiles exhibit a remarkable capacity for LTSS, with the production of viable offspring reported after periods exceeding 6 years since prior contact with a potential mate. Given that female reptiles are able to store viable sperm for prolonged periods, it is important to disentangle LTSS from that of facultative parthenogenesis (FP), a reproductive trait which appears widespread among all reptile lineages. The implications of this distinction are particularly important in the context of the development and management of captive breeding programs. To accurately determine between the two reproductive strategies, genomic screening is highly recommended. Following a period of isolation for 13 months from a potential male mate, a female Himalayan Mountain Pitviper (Ovophis monticola) produced a clutch of three male offspring. Here, through genome-scale analyses of the female and her progeny, we document the first record of LTSS in this genus and exclude FP as the alternative hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenna A Levine
- Department of Biology, Kean University, Union, New Jersey, USA
- Chiricahua Desert Museum, Rodeo, New Mexico, USA
| | - Anneke Moresco
- Reproductive Health Surveillance Program, Morrison, Colorado, USA
- Denver Zoological Foundation, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Tim Trout
- Denver Zoological Foundation, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Gordon W Schuett
- Chiricahua Desert Museum, Rodeo, New Mexico, USA
- Department of Biology and Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Warren Booth
- Chiricahua Desert Museum, Rodeo, New Mexico, USA
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
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Tillis SB, Ossiboff RJ, Wellehan JFX. Serpentoviruses Exhibit Diverse Organization and ORF Composition with Evidence of Recombination. Viruses 2024; 16:310. [PMID: 38400085 PMCID: PMC10892116 DOI: 10.3390/v16020310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Serpentoviruses are a subfamily of positive sense RNA viruses in the order Nidovirales, family Tobaniviridae, associated with respiratory disease in multiple clades of reptiles. While the broadest viral diversity is reported from captive pythons, other reptiles, including colubrid snakes, turtles, and lizards of captive and free-ranging origin are also known hosts. To better define serpentoviral diversity, eleven novel serpentovirus genomes were sequenced with an Illumina MiSeq and, when necessary, completed with other Sanger sequencing methods. The novel serpentoviral genomes, along with 57 other previously published serpentovirus genomes, were analyzed alongside four outgroup genomes. Genomic analyses included identifying unique genome templates for each serpentovirus clade, as well as analysis of coded protein composition, potential protein function, protein glycosylation sites, differences in phylogenetic history between open-reading frames, and recombination. Serpentoviral genomes contained diverse protein compositions. In addition to the fundamental structural spike, matrix, and nucleoprotein proteins required for virion formation, serpentovirus genomes also included 20 previously uncharacterized proteins. The uncharacterized proteins were homologous to a number of previously characterized proteins, including enzymes, transcription factors, scaffolding, viral resistance, and apoptosis-related proteins. Evidence for recombination was detected in multiple instances in genomes from both captive and free-ranging snakes. These results show serpentovirus as a diverse clade of viruses with genomes that code for a wide diversity of proteins potentially enhanced by recombination events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven B. Tillis
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA; (R.J.O.); (J.F.X.W.J.)
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10
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Rind FC, Bels V. Editorial: Prey-predator interactions. Front Behav Neurosci 2024; 18:1367484. [PMID: 38405039 PMCID: PMC10885692 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2024.1367484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- F. C. Rind
- Centre for Behaviour and Evolution, Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Vincent Bels
- Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle, Sorbonne Université, Institut de Systématique, Evolution, Biodiversité, UMR 7205 CNRS/MNHN, Paris, France
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Matkivska R, Samborska I, Maievskyi O. Effect of animal venom toxins on the main links of the homeostasis of mammals (Review). Biomed Rep 2024; 20:16. [PMID: 38144889 PMCID: PMC10739175 DOI: 10.3892/br.2023.1704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The human body is affected by environmental factors. The dynamic balance between the organism and its environment results from the influence of natural, anthropogenic and social aspects. The factors of exogenous origin determine development of adaptive changes. The present article summarises the mechanisms of animal venom toxins and homeostasis disruption in the body of mammals. The mechanisms underlying pathological changes are associated with shifts in biochemical reactions. Components of the immune, nervous and endocrine systems are key in the host defense and adaptation processes in response to venom by triggering signalling pathways (PI3kinase pathway, arachidonic acid cascade). Animal venom toxins initiate the development of inflammatory processes, the synthesis of pro-inflammatory mediators (cytokines), ROS, proteolytic enzymes, activate the migration of leukocytes and macrophages. Keratinocytes and endothelial cells act as protective barriers under the action of animal venom toxins on the body of mammals. In addition, the formation of pores in cell membranes, structural changes in cell ion channels are characteristic of the action of animal venom toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruzhena Matkivska
- Department of Descriptive and Clinical Anatomy, Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv 03680, Ukraine
| | - Inha Samborska
- Department of Biological and General Chemistry, National Pirogov Memorial Medical University, Vinnytsya 21018, Ukraine
| | - Oleksandr Maievskyi
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Educational and Scientific Center ‘Institute of Biology and Medicine’ of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv 03127, Ukraine
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Hinkle DG, Nelson NC, Duke EG, Harrison TM. Calculation of body surface area of corn snakes (Pantherophis guttatus) utilizing computed tomography. Am J Vet Res 2024; 85:ajvr.23.09.0217. [PMID: 38035480 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.23.09.0217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the K-constant for body surface area calculation from body weight in corn snakes (Pantherophis guttatus) through the use of computed tomography (CT) measurements. ANIMALS 12 adult corn snakes held by North Carolina State University for research purposes underwent CT between November 2022 and January 2023. METHODS Each snake had a CT scan, physical examination, and body weight measurement. CT images were uploaded into software able to perform 3-D reconstruction and measure body surface area. The species-specific K-constant was determined using nonlinear regression analysis between body surface area and (body weight in grams)2/3. RESULTS The mean body weight of the 12 adult corn snakes was 228 g, with a mean body surface area of 505.1 cm2. The calculated K-constant was 13.6 (P < .001). The resulting formula for body surface area in corn snakes is BSA in cm2 = 13.6 X (body weight in grams)2/3. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The body surface area formula developed for corn snakes will allow for improved dosing accuracy for medications with low therapeutic safety margins. Additional pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies are necessary to determine the safety and efficacy of individual medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria G Hinkle
- Departments of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
| | - Nathan C Nelson
- Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
| | - Elizabeth G Duke
- Departments of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
| | - Tara M Harrison
- Departments of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
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McFarlane LO, Pukala TL. Proteomic Investigation of Cape Cobra ( Naja nivea) Venom Reveals First Evidence of Quaternary Protein Structures. Toxins (Basel) 2024; 16:63. [PMID: 38393141 PMCID: PMC10892407 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16020063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Naja nivea (N. nivea) is classed as a category one snake by the World Health Organization since its envenomation causes high levels of mortality and disability annually. Despite this, there has been little research into the venom composition of N. nivea, with only one full venom proteome published to date. Our current study separated N. nivea venom using size exclusion chromatography before utilizing a traditional bottom-up proteomics approach to unravel the composition of the venom proteome. As expected by its clinical presentation, N. nivea venom was found to consist mainly of neurotoxins, with three-finger toxins (3FTx), making up 76.01% of the total venom proteome. Additionally, cysteine-rich secretory proteins (CRISPs), vespryns (VESPs), cobra venom factors (CVFs), 5'-nucleotidases (5'NUCs), nerve growth factors (NGFs), phospholipase A2s (PLA2), acetylcholinesterases (AChEs), Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitor (KUN), phosphodiesterases (PDEs), L-amino acid oxidases (LAAOs), hydrolases (HYDs), snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs), and snake venom serine protease (SVSP) toxins were also identified in decreasing order of abundance. Interestingly, contrary to previous reports, we find PLA2 toxins in N. nivea venom. This highlights the importance of repeatedly profiling the venom of the same species to account for intra-species variation. Additionally, we report the first evidence of covalent protein complexes in N. nivea venom, which likely contribute to the potency of this venom.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tara L. Pukala
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia;
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14
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Choowongkomon K, Chaisakul J, Seetaha S, Vasaruchapong T, Hodgson WC, Rasri N, Chaeksin K, Boonchaleaw S, Sookprasert N. Development of a Biosensor to Detect Venom of Malayan Krait ( Bungarus candidus). Toxins (Basel) 2024; 16:56. [PMID: 38276532 PMCID: PMC10820552 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16010056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Malayan krait (Bungarus candidus) envenoming is a cause of significant morbidity and mortality in many Southeast Asian countries. If intubation and specific antivenom administration are delayed, the most significant life-threatening outcome may be the inhibition of neuromuscular transmission and subsequent respiratory failure. It is recommended that krait-envenomed victims without indications of neurotoxicity, e.g., skeletal muscle weakness or ptosis, immediately receive 10 vials of antivenom. However, the administration of excess antivenom may lead to hypersensitivity or serum sickness. Therefore, monitoring venom concentrations in patients could be used as an indicator for snake antivenom treatment. In this study, we aimed to develop a screen-printed gold electrode (SPGE) biosensor to detect B. candidus venom in experimentally envenomed rats. The gold electrodes were coated with monovalent Malayan krait IgG antivenom and used as venom detection biosensors. Electrochemical impedance spectrometry (EIS) and square wave voltammetry (SWV) measurements were performed to detect the electrical characterization between B. candidus venom and monovalent IgG antivenom in the biosensor. The EIS measurements showed increases in charge transfer resistance (Rct) following IgG immobilization and incubation with B. candidus venom solution (0.1-0.4 mg/mL); thus, the antibody was immobilized on the electrode surface and venom was successfully detected. The lowest current signal was detected by SWV measurement in rat plasma collected 30 min following B. candidus experimental envenoming, indicating the highest level of venom concentration in blood circulation (4.3 ± 0.7 µg/mL). The present study demonstrates the ability of the SPGE biosensor to detect B. candidus venom in plasma from experimentally envenomed rats. The technology obtained in this work may be developed as a detection tool for use along with the standard treatment of Malayan krait envenoming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiattawee Choowongkomon
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, 50 Ngam Wong Wan Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand; (K.C.); (S.S.); (N.R.)
- Genetic Engineering Interdisciplinary Program, Graduate School, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand; (K.C.); (S.B.)
| | - Janeyuth Chaisakul
- Department of Pharmacology, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Ratchawithi Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Supaphorn Seetaha
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, 50 Ngam Wong Wan Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand; (K.C.); (S.S.); (N.R.)
| | - Taksa Vasaruchapong
- Snake Farm, Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok 10330, Thailand;
| | - Wayne C. Hodgson
- Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia;
| | - Natchaya Rasri
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, 50 Ngam Wong Wan Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand; (K.C.); (S.S.); (N.R.)
| | - Katechawin Chaeksin
- Genetic Engineering Interdisciplinary Program, Graduate School, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand; (K.C.); (S.B.)
| | - Sattawat Boonchaleaw
- Genetic Engineering Interdisciplinary Program, Graduate School, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand; (K.C.); (S.B.)
| | - Nattapon Sookprasert
- Department of Preclinical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus, Pathumthani 12120, Thailand
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15
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Chan KO, Anuar S, Sankar A, Law IT, Law IS, Shivaram R, Christian C, Mulcahy DG, Malhotra A. A new species of pit-viper from the Ayeyarwady and Yangon regions in Myanmar (Viperidae, Trimeresurus). Zookeys 2023; 1186:221-234. [PMID: 38312859 PMCID: PMC10836646 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1186.110422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
In a genomic study by Chan and colleagues, pit-vipers of the Trimeresuruserythrurus-purpureomaculatus complex from the Ayeyarwady and Yangon regions in Myanmar were demonstrated to be a distinct species based on robust population genetic and species delimitation analyses. Here, we provide morphological characterizations and a formal description of those populations as a new species. The new species, Trimeresurusayeyarwadyensissp. nov., is most closely related to T.erythrurus and T.purpureomaculatus and shares morphological characteristics with both of those species. Some specimens of T.ayeyarwadyensissp. nov. have green dorsal coloration and no distinct dorsal blotches (a trait shared with T.erythrurus but not T.purpureomaculatus), while others have dark dorsal blotches (a trait shared with T.purpureomaculatus but not T.erythrurus). The distinct evolutionary trajectory of the new species, coupled with the lack of obvious morphological differentiation, represents a classic example of the cryptic nature of species commonly found in the Trimeresurus group of Asian pit-vipers and underscores the need for data-rich analyses to verify species' boundaries more broadly within this genus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kin Onn Chan
- Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, National University of Singapore, 2 Conservatory Drive, 117377 Singapore, Singapore
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Penang, Malaysia
| | - Shahrul Anuar
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Penang, Malaysia
| | - Ananthanarayanan Sankar
- Herpetological Society of Singapore, 12J Sime Road, 288296 Singapore, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, National University of Singapore, 2 Conservatory Drive, 117377 Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ingg Thong Law
- Herpetological Society of Singapore, 12J Sime Road, 288296 Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ing Sind Law
- Herpetological Society of Singapore, 12J Sime Road, 288296 Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rasu Shivaram
- Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, National University of Singapore, 2 Conservatory Drive, 117377 Singapore, Singapore
- Herpetological Society of Singapore, 12J Sime Road, 288296 Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ching Christian
- Herpetological Society of Singapore, 12J Sime Road, 288296 Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 16 Science Drive 4, 117558 Singapore, Singapore
| | - Daniel G Mulcahy
- Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum, London SW7 5BD, UK
| | - Anita Malhotra
- Museum für Naturkunde, Leibniz Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science, Invalidenstraße 43, 10115 Berlin, Germany
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16
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Westeen EP, Escalona M, Holding ML, Beraut E, Fairbairn C, Marimuthu MPA, Nguyen O, Perri R, Fisher RN, Toffelmier E, Shaffer HB, Wang IJ. A genome assembly for the southern Pacific rattle snake, Crotalus oreganus helleri, in the western rattlesnake species complex. J Hered 2023; 114:681-689. [PMID: 37493092 PMCID: PMC10650947 DOI: 10.1093/jhered/esad045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Rattlesnakes play important roles in their ecosystems by regulating prey populations, are involved in complex coevolutionary dynamics with their prey, and exhibit a variety of unusual adaptations, including maternal care, heat-sensing pit organs, hinged fangs, and medically-significant venoms. The western rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus) is one of the widest ranging rattlesnake species, with a distribution from British Columbia, where it is listed as threatened, to Baja California and east across the Great Basin to western Wyoming, Colorado and New Mexico. Here, we report a new reference genome assembly for one of six currently recognized subspecies, C. oreganus helleri, as part of the California Conservation Genomics Project (CCGP). Consistent with the reference genomic sequencing strategy of the CCGP, we used Pacific Biosciences HiFi long reads and Hi-C chromatin-proximity sequencing technology to produce a de novo assembled genome. The assembly comprises a total of 698 scaffolds spanning 1,564,812,557 base pairs, has a contig N50 of 64.7 Mb, a scaffold N50 of 110.8 Mb, and BUSCO complete score of 90.5%. This reference genome will be valuable for studies on the genomic basis of venom evolution and variation within Crotalus, in resolving the taxonomy of C. oreganus and its relatives, and for the conservation and management of rattlesnakes in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin P Westeen
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States
- Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States
| | - Merly Escalona
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, United States
| | - Matthew L Holding
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Eric Beraut
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, United States
| | - Colin Fairbairn
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, United States
| | - Mohan P A Marimuthu
- DNA Technologies and Expression Analysis Core Laboratory, Genome Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Oanh Nguyen
- DNA Technologies and Expression Analysis Core Laboratory, Genome Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Ralph Perri
- 1001 Foothill Drive, Fillmore, CA, 93015, United States
| | - Robert N Fisher
- U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, San Diego, CA, 92101, United States
| | - Erin Toffelmier
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
- La Kretz Center for California Conservation Science, Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| | - H Bradley Shaffer
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
- La Kretz Center for California Conservation Science, Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| | - Ian J Wang
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States
- Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States
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17
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Westeen EP, Escalona M, Beraut E, Marimuthu MPA, Nguyen O, Fisher RN, Toffelmier E, Shaffer HB, Wang IJ. A reference genome assembly for the continentally distributed ring-necked snake, Diadophis punctatus. J Hered 2023; 114:690-697. [PMID: 37688363 PMCID: PMC10650948 DOI: 10.1093/jhered/esad051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Snakes in the family Colubridae include more than 2,000 currently recognized species, and comprise roughly 75% of the global snake species diversity on Earth. For such a spectacular radiation, colubrid snakes remain poorly understood ecologically and genetically. Two subfamilies, Colubrinae (788 species) and Dipsadinae (833 species), comprise the bulk of colubrid species richness. Dipsadines are a speciose and diverse group of snakes that largely inhabit Central and South America, with a handful of small-body-size genera that have invaded North America. Among them, the ring-necked snake, Diadophis punctatus, has an incredibly broad distribution with 14 subspecies. Given its continental distribution and high degree of variation in coloration, diet, feeding ecology, and behavior, the ring-necked snake is an excellent species for the study of genetic diversity and trait evolution. Within California, six subspecies form a continuously distributed "ring species" around the Central Valley, while a seventh, the regal ring-necked snake, Diadophis punctatus regalis is a disjunct outlier and Species of Special Concern in the state. Here, we report a new reference genome assembly for the San Diego ring-necked snake, D. p. similis, as part of the California Conservation Genomics Project. This assembly comprises a total of 444 scaffolds spanning 1,783 Mb and has a contig N50 of 8.0 Mb, scaffold N50 of 83 Mb, and BUSCO completeness score of 94.5%. This reference genome will be a valuable resource for studies of the taxonomy, conservation, and evolution of the ring-necked snake across its broad, continental distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin P Westeen
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States
- Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States
| | - Merly Escalona
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, United States
| | - Eric Beraut
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, United States
| | - Mohan P A Marimuthu
- DNA Technologies and Expression Analysis Core Laboratory, Genome Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Oanh Nguyen
- DNA Technologies and Expression Analysis Core Laboratory, Genome Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Robert N Fisher
- U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, San Diego, CA, 92101, United States
| | - Erin Toffelmier
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
- La Kretz Center for California Conservation Science, Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| | - H Bradley Shaffer
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
- La Kretz Center for California Conservation Science, Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| | - Ian J Wang
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States
- Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States
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18
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Klainbart S, Kelmer E, Beeri-Cohen I, Keinan Y, Segev G, Aroch I. Serum Cholesterol Concentration on Admission in 415 Dogs Envenomated by Daboia (Vipera) palaestinae as a Marker of Envenomation Severity and Outcome-A Retrospective Study. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:609. [PMID: 37888640 PMCID: PMC10611264 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15100609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Daboia (Vipera) palaestinae (Dp), accounts for most envenomations in humans and dogs in Israel. In humans envenomed by Dp, serum cholesterol concentration (sChol) is inversely correlated with envenomation severity. This study examined the utility of sChol upon admission in dogs envenomed by Dp as an envenomation severity and outcome marker. Data upon admission, including sChol, were retrospectively collected from the medical records of dogs with proven Dp envenomation. The study included 415 dogs. The mortality rate was 11%. The heart rate upon admission was higher in non-survivors than in survivors. Signs of bleeding or hematoma and circulatory shock signs were more frequent among non-survivors compared to survivors. sChol, the platelet count, and serum albumin concentration (sAlb) were lower, while serum creatinine concentration was higher among non-survivors. sChol and sAlb were moderately, positively, and significantly correlated. sChol was significantly, negatively, albeit weakly, correlated with the length of hospitalization and the heart rate. sChol was lower in dogs admitted >12 h post-envenomation than in those admitted later. In dogs, sChol upon admission is a potential marker of severity and outcome of Dp envenomation. The platelet count, sAlb, and sCreat might also be potential markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigal Klainbart
- Department of Small Animal Emergency and Critical Care, Koret School of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 229 Herzel St., P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (E.K.); (I.B.-C.)
| | - Efrat Kelmer
- Department of Small Animal Emergency and Critical Care, Koret School of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 229 Herzel St., P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (E.K.); (I.B.-C.)
| | - Iris Beeri-Cohen
- Department of Small Animal Emergency and Critical Care, Koret School of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 229 Herzel St., P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (E.K.); (I.B.-C.)
| | - Yael Keinan
- Department of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Koret School of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 229 Herzel St., P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (Y.K.); (G.S.); (I.A.)
| | - Gilad Segev
- Department of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Koret School of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 229 Herzel St., P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (Y.K.); (G.S.); (I.A.)
| | - Itamar Aroch
- Department of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Koret School of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 229 Herzel St., P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (Y.K.); (G.S.); (I.A.)
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19
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Ma S, Xu YH, Qi S, Wang YY, Tang SS, Huang S, Jiang JP. Discovery of a new cryptic Achalinus Peters, 1869 (Serpentes, Xenodermidae) species from Hunan Province, China. Zookeys 2023; 1181:9-27. [PMID: 37810461 PMCID: PMC10556878 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1181.109462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
A new species, Achalinusshenisp. nov., from central Hunan Province is described, based on the results of molecular systematics and morphological characters according to five specimens. Our molecular phylogeny inferred from the mitochondrial CO1 gene fragment revealed that this new species is most closely related to A.yunkaiensis, but a considerable amount of genetic divergence exists between them (p-distance ranging from 5.8% to 6.4%) and much distinct genetic divergence exists compared with other known Achalinus species (p-distance ranging from 10.4% to 15.8%), supporting its validity. Morphologically, it can be distinguished from its congeners by: (1) dorsal scales strongly keeled, 23 rows throughout the body, the outmost row smooth and significantly enlarged; (2) tail relatively short, TaL/TL 0.183 ~ 0.224; (3) the suture between internasals subequal to the suture between prefrontals; (4) loreal one, subrectangular, LorH/LorL 0.53 ~ 0.57; (5) ventrals 161-170, anal entire, subcaudals 55-61, not paired; (6) the length of supraocular equal to or longer than the length of upper anterior temporal; and (7) vertebral line inconspicuous and subcaudal streak absent. Currently, 27 species of Achalinus are known in the world, amongst which 20 species are distributed in China. Moreover, a key to species of the genus Achalinus is provided in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Ma
- Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, ChinaChengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of SciencesChengduChina
- University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100049, ChinaUniversity of Chinese Academy of ScienceBeijingChina
| | - Yu-Hao Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, ChinaAnhui Agricultural UniversityHefeiChina
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of the Conservation and Exploitation of Biological Resource, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241000, ChinaAnhui Normal UniversityWuhuChina
| | - Shuo Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol/The Museum of Biology, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, ChinaSun Yat-sen UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Ying-Yong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol/The Museum of Biology, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, ChinaSun Yat-sen UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Shan-Shan Tang
- Hunan Institute of Agricultural Information and Engineering, Changsha 410125, ChinaHunan Institute of Agricultural Information and EngineeringChangshaChina
| | - Song Huang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of the Conservation and Exploitation of Biological Resource, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241000, ChinaAnhui Normal UniversityWuhuChina
| | - Jian-Ping Jiang
- Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, ChinaChengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of SciencesChengduChina
- University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100049, ChinaUniversity of Chinese Academy of ScienceBeijingChina
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20
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Štolhoferová I, Frynta D, Janovcová M, Rudolfová V, Elmi HSA, Rexová K, Berti DA, Král D, Sommer D, Landová E, Frýdlová P. The bigger the threat, the longer the gaze? A cross-cultural study of Somalis and Czechs. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1234593. [PMID: 37829068 PMCID: PMC10565226 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1234593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
High fear reaction, preferential attention, or fast detection are only a few of the specific responses which snakes evoke in humans. Previous research has shown that these responses are shared amongst several distinct cultures suggesting the evolutionary origin of the response. However, populations from sub-Saharan Africa have been largely missing in experimental research focused on this issue. In this paper, we focus on the effect of snake threat display on human spontaneous attention. We performed an eye-tracking experiment with participants from Somaliland and the Czechia and investigated whether human attention is swayed towards snakes in a threatening posture. Seventy-one Somalis and 71 Czechs were tested; the samples were matched for gender and comparable in age structure and education level. We also investigated the effect of snake morphotype as snakes differ in their threat display. We found that snakes in a threatening posture were indeed gazed upon more than snakes in a relaxed (non-threatening) posture. Further, we found a large effect of snake morphotype as this was especially prominent in cobras, less in vipers, and mostly non-significant in other morphotypes. Finally, despite highly different cultural and environmental backgrounds, the overall pattern of reaction towards snakes was similar in Somalis and Czechs supporting the evolutionary origin of the phenomenon. We concluded that human attention is preferentially directed towards snakes, especially cobras and vipers, in threatening postures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iveta Štolhoferová
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Daniel Frynta
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Markéta Janovcová
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Veronika Rudolfová
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Hassan Sh Abdirahman Elmi
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Education, Amoud University, Borama, Somalia
| | - Kateřina Rexová
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Daniel Alex Berti
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - David Král
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - David Sommer
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Eva Landová
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Petra Frýdlová
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
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21
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Tsetlin V, Shelukhina I, Kozlov S, Kasheverov I. Fifty Years of Animal Toxin Research at the Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13884. [PMID: 37762187 PMCID: PMC10530976 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This review covers briefly the work carried out at our institute (IBCh), in many cases in collaboration with other Russian and foreign laboratories, for the last 50 years. It discusses the discoveries and studies of various animal toxins, including protein and peptide neurotoxins acting on the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) and on other ion channels. Among the achievements are the determination of the primary structures of the α-bungarotoxin-like three-finger toxins (TFTs), covalently bound dimeric TFTs, glycosylated cytotoxin, inhibitory cystine knot toxins (ICK), modular ICKs, and such giant molecules as latrotoxins and peptide neurotoxins from the snake, as well as from other animal venoms. For a number of toxins, spatial structures were determined, mostly by 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Using this method in combination with molecular modeling, the molecular mechanisms of the interactions of several toxins with lipid membranes were established. In more detail are presented the results of recent years, among which are the discovery of α-bungarotoxin analogs distinguishing the two binding sites in the muscle-type nAChR, long-chain α-neurotoxins interacting with α9α10 nAChRs and with GABA-A receptors, and the strong antiviral effects of dimeric phospholipases A2. A summary of the toxins obtained from arthropod venoms includes only highly cited works describing the molecules' success story, which is associated with IBCh. In marine animals, versatile toxins in terms of structure and molecular targets were discovered, and careful work on α-conotoxins differing in specificity for individual nAChR subtypes gave information about their binding sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Tsetlin
- Department of Molecular Neuroimmune Signaling, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 16/10 Miklukho-Maklay Str., 117997 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.); (I.K.)
| | - Irina Shelukhina
- Department of Molecular Neuroimmune Signaling, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 16/10 Miklukho-Maklay Str., 117997 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.); (I.K.)
| | - Sergey Kozlov
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 16/10 Miklukho-Maklay Str., 117997 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Igor Kasheverov
- Department of Molecular Neuroimmune Signaling, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 16/10 Miklukho-Maklay Str., 117997 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.); (I.K.)
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22
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Cummings CO, Eisenbarth JM. Snakebite Envenoming in Avian Species: A Systematic Scoping Review and Practitioner Experience Survey. J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:118-131. [PMID: 37733451 PMCID: PMC10787666 DOI: 10.1647/22-00035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Snakebite envenoming in avian species is infrequently reported in the veterinary literature, although perhaps not as rarely as recent publications suggest. A systematic scoping review was performed on the topic using PubMed and Google Scholar, 21 veterinary textbooks, and 139 conference proceedings. A practitioner experience survey was also performed, with recruitment from Facebook groups for exotic animal practitioners and professional organization email listservs. Only 31 texts met our inclusion/exclusion criteria, which meant they described clinicopathologic signs of snakebite envenomation in avian species, the treatment of snakebite envenomation in avian species, or expanded the geographic range or the number of captive avian and snake species involved. Reports included approximately 15-20 different species of both snakes and birds worldwide; however, no reports described clinicopathologic signs of naturally occurring snakebites from Asia, Australasia, or Europe. The few responses from our practitioner experience survey suggest that snakebite envenomation may be more common than previously reported. Clinical signs of snake envenomation in birds appear to depend on the snake species involved but often include local swelling and subcutaneous edema or hemorrhage with paired fang marks; weakness, bleeding, neurologic deficits, and death may follow. A wide variety of treatment protocols have been used to counter snakebite envenomation in birds, including the successful use of antivenom. Based on this body of evidence, much remains to be learned about snakebite envenomation of birds, particularly about the efficacy of different treatment protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles O Cummings
- Tufts Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA,
| | - Jessica M Eisenbarth
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA 01536, USA
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23
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Ratanabanangkoon K. Polyvalent Snake Antivenoms: Production Strategy and Their Therapeutic Benefits. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:517. [PMID: 37755943 PMCID: PMC10536913 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15090517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Snake envenomation remains an important yet neglected medical problem in many countries, with around five million people affected, and over a hundred thousand deaths annually. Plasma-derived antivenoms are the main therapeutic agent available. Monovalent antivenoms are produced via the immunization of large animals, e.g., horses, with one venom, after which the horse serum can neutralize the homologous venom, with minimal or no cross neutralization against other venoms. It is necessary, therefore, for the culprit snake to be identified, so that the appropriate specific antivenom can be selected. Polyvalent antivenoms (pAVs) are produced via immunization with a number of snake venoms, and the serum can neutralize all the venoms used in its production. Thus, pAVs can be used to treat several venoms from a country/region, and the identification of the culprit snake is not necessary. There are various parameters and processes involved in the production of pAVs, depending on the requirements and resources available. Most commercial pAVs use a mixture of both elapid and viperid venoms as immunogens, while some pAVs use either elapid or viperid venoms. Some pAVs are produced through the mixing of more than one monovalent or polyvalent antivenom. These various types of pAVs have their own characteristics, and have benefits and drawbacks. The major benefits of pAVs are the wide coverage of many medically important venoms, including many heterologous venoms. They also remove the need to identify the culprit snake, and they can be produced at a lower cost than several monovalent antivenoms. Interesting polyvalent antivenoms, termed 'syndromic pAVs' (s-pAVs), have recently gained attention. They are produced for use according to the syndromes manifested in snakebite patients. The venoms that produce these syndromes are used as immunogens in the production of 'syndromic antivenoms'. For example, 'neurotoxic polyvalent antivenom' and 'hematotoxic polyvalent antivenom' are produced using the neurotoxic elapid and hematotoxic viperid venoms as immunogens, respectively. They were first marketed by the Thai Red Cross in 2012, and have since gained attention as a possible therapeutic modality to help solve the problem of snakebite envenomation globally. The merits of these s-pAVs, including their efficacy and wide paraspecificities, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavi Ratanabanangkoon
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
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24
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Han D, Carr CE. Central projections of auditory nerve fibers in the western rat snake (Pantherophis obsoletus). J Comp Neurol 2023; 531:1261-1273. [PMID: 37245999 PMCID: PMC10590474 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Despite the absence of tympanic middle ears, snakes can hear. They are thought to primarily detect substrate vibration via connections between the lower jaw and the inner ear. We used the western rat snake (Pantherophis obsoletus) to determine how vibration is processed in the brain. We measured vibration-evoked potential recordings to reveal sensitivity to low-frequency vibrations. We then used tract tracing combined with immunohistochemistry and Nissl staining to describe the central projections of the papillar branch of the VIIIth nerve. Applications of biotinylated dextran amine to the basilar papilla (homologous to the organ of Corti of mammals) labeled bouton-like terminals in two first-order cochlear nuclei, a rostrolateral nucleus angularis (NA) and a caudomedial nucleus magnocellularis (NM). NA formed a distinct dorsal eminence, consisted of heterogenous cell types, and was parvalbumin positive. NM was smaller and poorly separated from the surrounding vestibular nuclei. NM was distinguished by positive calbindin label and included fusiform and round cells. Thus, the atympanate western rat snake shares similar first-order projections to tympanate reptiles. Auditory pathways may be used for detecting vibration, not only in snakes but also potentially in atympanate early tetrapods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawei Han
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
- Neuroscience and Cognitive Science Program, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Catherine E. Carr
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
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25
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Dao UM, Lederer I, Tabor RL, Shahid B, Graves CW, Seidel HS. Stripes and loss of color in ball pythons (Python regius) are associated with variants affecting endothelin signaling. G3 (Bethesda) 2023; 13:jkad063. [PMID: 37191439 PMCID: PMC10320763 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkad063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Color patterns in nonavian reptiles are beautifully diverse, but little is known about the genetics and development of these patterns. Here, we investigated color patterning in pet ball pythons (Python regius), which have been bred to show color phenotypes that differ dramatically from the wildtype form. We report that several color phenotypes in pet animals are associated with putative loss-of-function variants in the gene encoding endothelin receptor EDNRB1: (1) frameshift variants in EDNRB1 are associated with conversion of the normal mottled color pattern to skin that is almost fully white, (2) missense variants affecting conserved sites of the EDNRB1 protein are associated with dorsal, longitudinal stripes, and (3) substitutions at EDNRB1 splice donors are associated with subtle changes in patterning compared to wildtype. We propose that these phenotypes are caused by loss of specialized color cells (chromatophores), with loss ranging from severe (fully white) to moderate (dorsal striping) to mild (subtle changes in patterning). Our study is the first to describe variants affecting endothelin signaling in a nonavian reptile and suggests that reductions in endothelin signaling in ball pythons can produce a variety of color phenotypes, depending on the degree of color cell loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uyen M Dao
- Department of Biology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
| | - Izabella Lederer
- Department of Biology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
| | - Ray L Tabor
- Department of Biology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
| | - Basmah Shahid
- Department of Biology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
| | - Chiron W Graves
- Department of Biology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
| | - Hannah S Seidel
- Department of Biology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
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26
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Tillis SB, Holt C, Havens S, Logan TD, Julander JG, Ossiboff RJ. In Vitro Characterization and Antiviral Susceptibility of Ophidian Serpentoviruses. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1371. [PMID: 37374873 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ophidian serpentoviruses, positive-sense RNA viruses in the order Nidovirales, are important infectious agents of both captive and free-ranging reptiles. Although the clinical significance of these viruses can be variable, some serpentoviruses are pathogenic and potentially fatal in captive snakes. While serpentoviral diversity and disease potential are well documented, little is known about the fundamental properties of these viruses, including their potential host ranges, kinetics of growth, environmental stability, and susceptibility to common disinfectants and viricides. To address this, three serpentoviruses were isolated in culture from three unique PCR-positive python species: Ball python (Python regius), green tree python (Morelia viridis), and Stimson's python (Antaresia stimsoni). A median tissue culture infectious dose (TCID50) was established to characterize viral stability, growth, and susceptibility. All isolates showed an environmental stability of 10-12 days at room temperature (20 °C). While all three viruses produced variable peak titers on three different cell lines when incubated at 32 °C, none of the viruses detectably replicated at 35 °C. All viruses demonstrated a wide susceptibility to sanitizers, with 10% bleach, 2% chlorhexidine, and 70% ethanol inactivating the virus in one minute and 7% peroxide and a quaternary ammonium solution within three minutes. Of seven tested antiviral agents, remdesivir, ribavirin, and NITD-008, showed potent antiviral activity against the three viruses. Finally, the three isolates successfully infected 32 unique tissue culture cell lines representing different diverse reptile taxa and select mammals and birds as detected by epifluorescent immunostaining. This study represents the first characterization of in vitro properties of growth, stability, host range, and inactivation for a serpentovirus. The reported results provide the basis for procedures to mitigate the spread of serpentoviruses in captive snake colonies as well as identify potential non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic treatment options for ophidian serpentoviral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven B Tillis
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Camille Holt
- Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - Spencer Havens
- Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - Tracey D Logan
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Justin G Julander
- Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
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27
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Binta Islam S, Valles D, Hibbitts TJ, Ryberg WA, Walkup DK, Forstner MRJ. Animal Species Recognition with Deep Convolutional Neural Networks from Ecological Camera Trap Images. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13091526. [PMID: 37174563 PMCID: PMC10177479 DOI: 10.3390/ani13091526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Accurate identification of animal species is necessary to understand biodiversity richness, monitor endangered species, and study the impact of climate change on species distribution within a specific region. Camera traps represent a passive monitoring technique that generates millions of ecological images. The vast numbers of images drive automated ecological analysis as essential, given that manual assessment of large datasets is laborious, time-consuming, and expensive. Deep learning networks have been advanced in the last few years to solve object and species identification tasks in the computer vision domain, providing state-of-the-art results. In our work, we trained and tested machine learning models to classify three animal groups (snakes, lizards, and toads) from camera trap images. We experimented with two pretrained models, VGG16 and ResNet50, and a self-trained convolutional neural network (CNN-1) with varying CNN layers and augmentation parameters. For multiclassification, CNN-1 achieved 72% accuracy, whereas VGG16 reached 87%, and ResNet50 attained 86% accuracy. These results demonstrate that the transfer learning approach outperforms the self-trained model performance. The models showed promising results in identifying species, especially those with challenging body sizes and vegetation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sazida Binta Islam
- Ingram School of Engineering, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA
| | - Damian Valles
- Ingram School of Engineering, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA
| | - Toby J Hibbitts
- Natural Resources Institute, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- Biodiversity Research and Teaching Collections, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Wade A Ryberg
- Natural Resources Institute, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Danielle K Walkup
- Natural Resources Institute, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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28
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T.Sinnott J, Somboonwit C, F.Alrabaa S, Shapshak P. Dangerous Risk Group-4 (RG-4) emergent viruses. Bioinformation 2023; 19:345-347. [PMID: 37822829 PMCID: PMC10563550 DOI: 10.6026/97320630019345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
World Health Organization (WHO) Risk Group-4 (RG-4) pathogens are among the most dangerous of the emergent and re-emergent viruses. International health agencies, working in concert, bridge the gaps in health care for populations at risk for RG-4 viral pathogen exposure. RG-4 virus research incorporates Biodefense Program and Biosafety Laboratory (BSL)-4 technologies. RG-4 viruses include Arena-viridae, Filo-viridae, Flavi-viridae, Herpes-viridae, Nairo-viridae, Paramyxo-viridae, and Pox-viridae.
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Affiliation(s)
- John T.Sinnott
- 1Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33606, USA
| | - Charurut Somboonwit
- 1Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33606, USA
| | - Sally F.Alrabaa
- 1Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33606, USA
| | - Paul Shapshak
- 1Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33606, USA
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29
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Ye MX, Luo XJ, Liu Y, Zhu CH, Feng QJ, Zeng YH, Mai BX. Sex-Specific Bioaccumulation, Maternal Transfer, and Tissue Distribution of Legacy and Emerging Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Snakes ( Enhydris chinensis) and the Impact of Pregnancy. Environ Sci Technol 2023; 57:4481-4491. [PMID: 36881938 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c09063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The effects of sex and pregnancy on the bioaccumulation and tissue distribution of legacy and emerging per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in Chinese water snakes were investigated. The bioaccumulation factor of PFASs showed a positive correlation with their protein-water partition coefficients (log KPW), and steric hindrance effects were observed when the molecular volume was > 357 Å3. PFAS levels in females were significantly lower than those in males. The chemical composition of pregnant females was significantly different from that of non-pregnant females and males. The maternal transfer efficiencies of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid were higher than those of other PFASs, and a positive correlation between the maternal transfer potential and log KPW was observed for other PFASs. Tissues with high phospholipid content exhibited higher concentrations of ∑PFASs. Numerous physiological changes occurred in maternal organ systems during pregnancy, leading to the re-distribution of chemicals among different tissues. The change in tissue distribution of PFASs that are easily and not-so-easily maternally transferred was in the opposite direction. The extent of compound transfer from the liver to the egg determined tissue re-distribution during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Xia Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Resources Utilization and Protection, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Jun Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Resources Utilization and Protection, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, People's Republic of China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Deep Earth Science, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Institute of Microbiology, Jiangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanchang 330096, China
| | - Chu-Hong Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Resources Utilization and Protection, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Qun-Jie Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Resources Utilization and Protection, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan-Hong Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Resources Utilization and Protection, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, People's Republic of China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Deep Earth Science, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Bi-Xian Mai
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Resources Utilization and Protection, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, People's Republic of China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Deep Earth Science, Guangzhou 510640, China
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30
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Moon JM, Chun BJ, Cho YS. Clinical features of snake envenomation in South Korea. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2023; 61:276-282. [PMID: 36939139 DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2022.2160341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Three venomous snakes of the Gloydius genus belonging to the Viperidae family cause most snake envenomations in South Korea. Envenomation signs often include local swelling, coagulopathy, and rhabdomyolysis. The benefit of additional antivenom after the initial does is unclear. METHODS This retrospective study divided patients into four groups according to the presence of rhabdomyolysis (creatine kinase ≥1000 IU/L) and coagulopathy, which were defined using the Korean Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis disseminated intravascular coagulation score (rhabdomyolysis, coagulopathy, combination, and local effects groups). We describe the clinical features of envenomation and the antivenom response. RESULTS Greater local swelling predicted more severe snakebite pain. Ninety of the 231 enrolled patients (38.9%) developed rhabdomyolysis. The patients with severe rhabdomyolysis in the combination group displayed higher peak creatine kinase activity than the rhabdomyolysis group. Seven patients with rhabdomyolysis, including two patients requiring kidney replacement therapy, developed acute kidney injury, but the incidence of acute kidney injury did not differ between the combination group and rhabdomyolysis group. Bleeding developed in 3.5% of the patients, but its incidence did not differ between the combination and coagulopathy groups. Approximately half of all patients needed repeated antivenom administration, mainly due to the local envenomation effect. Earlier administration of additional antivenom for progressive local swelling did not reduce the hospitalization duration. CONCLUSION Rhabdomyolysis is one of the major effects of Gloydius snake envenomation in South Korea, although it is not associated with the same risk of clinical deterioration as coagulopathy. Additionally, the ability of antivenom to ameliorate local swelling should be investigated to prevent unnecessary antivenom administration in South Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Mi Moon
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun-gun, Republic of Korea
| | - Byeong Jo Chun
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Chonnam National University Hospital, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Soo Cho
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Chonnam National University Hospital, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
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31
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Varga-Kugler R, Ihász K, Marton S, Kaszab E, Marschang RE, Farkas S, Bányai K. Genetic diversity among reptilian orthoreoviruses isolated from pet snakes and lizards. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1058133. [PMID: 36816198 PMCID: PMC9932320 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1058133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Reovirus infections in reptiles are frequently detected and associated with various clinical diseases; yet, our knowledge about their genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships remains limited. In this study, we characterize at the genomic level five reptile origin orthoreovirus strains isolated from exotic snakes and lizards in Hungary and Germany. The genomic organization of the study strains was similar to that of the representative strains of reptile origin reoviruses belonging to species Reptilian orthoreovirus and Testudine orthoreovirus. Additionally, all five study strains clustered with the bush viper origin reference Reptilian orthoreovirus strain, 47/02. The nucleotide sequence divergence among strains fell from 56.64 to 99.36%. Based on genome segment constellations two well separated groups were observed, which may represent two genetic lineages of reptilian orthoreoviruses we tentatively referred here as genogroups, classifying two squamata origin strains with available whole genome sequences into genogroup I (GGI) and four strains into genogroup II (GGII). The representative GGI and GGII Reptilian orthoreovirus strains are characterized by moderate-to-high nucleotide and amino acid similarities within genogroups (range, 69.45 to 99.36% and 74.64 to 100.00%), whereas lower nucleotide and amino acid similarities (range, 56.64 to 77.24% and 54.53 to 93.85%) and different structures of the bicistronic S1 segment were found between genogroups. Further studies are needed to explore the genomic diversity among reptilian reoviruses of squamata origin; this would be critical to establish a robust classification system for these viruses and to see if interaction among members of distinct lineages may result in viable progenies with novel genetic features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renáta Varga-Kugler
- Veterinary Medical Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary,National Laboratory for Infectious Animal Diseases, Antimicrobial Resistance, Veterinary Public Health and Food Chain Safety, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katalin Ihász
- Veterinary Medical Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Szilvia Marton
- Veterinary Medical Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary,National Laboratory for Infectious Animal Diseases, Antimicrobial Resistance, Veterinary Public Health and Food Chain Safety, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Eszter Kaszab
- Veterinary Medical Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary,National Laboratory for Infectious Animal Diseases, Antimicrobial Resistance, Veterinary Public Health and Food Chain Safety, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Szilvia Farkas
- Department of Obstetrics and Food Animal Medicine Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Krisztián Bányai
- Veterinary Medical Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary,National Laboratory for Infectious Animal Diseases, Antimicrobial Resistance, Veterinary Public Health and Food Chain Safety, Budapest, Hungary,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary,*Correspondence: Krisztián Bányai ✉
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Mathou A, Bonnet X, Daoues K, Ksas R, Herrel A. Evolutionary convergence of muscle architecture in relation to locomotor ecology in snakes. J Anat 2023; 242:862-871. [PMID: 36732067 PMCID: PMC10093152 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The epaxial muscles in snakes are responsible for locomotion and as such can be expected to show adaptations in species living in different environments. Here, we tested whether the structural units that comprise the superficial epaxial muscles (semispinalis-spinalis, SSP; longissimus dorsi, LD; iliocostalis, IC) were different in animals occupying similar habitats. To do so, we analyzed and compared the muscle architecture (mass, fiber length, and physiological cross-sectional area) of the superficial epaxial muscle segments in snakes that differ in their habitat use (e.g., arboreal, terrestrial, and aquatic). Our results showed that arboreal species have on average longer muscles and tendons spanning more segments likely important during gap bridging. Moreover, aquatic snakes show relatively heavier semispinalis-spinalis muscles with a greater cross-sectional area. The longissimus dorsi muscles also showed a greater cross-sectional area compared with terrestrial and especially arboreal snakes. Whereas the more strongly developed muscles in aquatic snakes are likely associated with the dense and viscous environment through which they move, the lighter muscles in arboreal snakes may provide an advantage when climbing. Future studies comparing other ecologies (e.g., burrowing snakes) and additional muscle units (e.g., multifidus; hypaxial muscles) are needed to better understand the structural features driving variation in locomotor performance and efficiency in snakes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrien Mathou
- Département Adaptations du Vivant, Bâtiment d'Anatomie Comparée, UMR 7179 C.N.R.S/M.N.H.N., Paris, France
| | - Xavier Bonnet
- CEBC, UMR-7372, CNRS-Université de La Rochelle, Villiers en Bois, France
| | | | - Rémi Ksas
- Venomworld, Saint-Thibault-des-vignes, France
| | - Anthony Herrel
- Département Adaptations du Vivant, Bâtiment d'Anatomie Comparée, UMR 7179 C.N.R.S/M.N.H.N., Paris, France
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Vieira SEM, Grego KF, Blank MH, Novaes GA, Rodrigues FDS, Silveira GPMD, Castro RAD, Sant'Anna SS, Pereira RJG. Ejaculate characteristics over seasons in five species of lancehead pitvipers (Bothrops spp) kept in captivity. Zoo Biol 2023; 42:119-132. [PMID: 35652411 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Due to their major medical importance in Latin America, lancehead pitvipers are frequently kept and bred in captivity for venom extraction to the production of antivenom serums. Nevertheless, despite the great contribution given to captive breeding, much of the knowledge of Bothrops' reproductive biology derived from sporadic and insufficient data provided by zoological collections. Thus, we aimed to investigate seasonal changes in gonadosomatic index (GSI) and seminal parameters (e.g., volume, concentration, motility, viability, and acrosome integrity) of five species of lancehead pitvipers from different biomes and phylogenetic groups, maintained in the indoors serpentarium at Butantan Institute (Brazil). Patterns of variation in GSI and semen parameters differed from one species to another, suggesting that captive populations should perhaps be managed distinctly to maximize reproductive success. Furthermore, in none of the studied species did changes in GSI occur concomitantly with seminal variations. GSI remained unaltered year-round for Jararaca (Bothrops jararaca) and Brazilian lancehead (Bothrops moojeni), whereas it peaked in the autumn for Common lancehead (Bothrops atrox), Jararacussu (Bothrops jararacussu), and Whitetail lancehead (Bothrops leucurus). But surprisingly, the scenario was inverted when we estimated the total number of motile spermatozoa per season, as Jararaca and Brazilian lancehead displayed seasonal differences and the other species did not vary throughout the year. Potential ecological and evolutionary factors underlying these differences were also discussed in the present article. Together, these findings can help to better define breeding management strategies for each species in captivity, in addition to optimizing the future use of artificial insemination and semen cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samira E M Vieira
- Laboratory of Herpetology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kathleen F Grego
- Laboratory of Herpetology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcel H Blank
- Study Group for Avian Multiplication-GEMA, Department of Animal Reproduction, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriel A Novaes
- Study Group for Avian Multiplication-GEMA, Department of Animal Reproduction, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Rafael A de Castro
- Laboratory of Herpetology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sávio S Sant'Anna
- Laboratory of Herpetology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ricardo J G Pereira
- Study Group for Avian Multiplication-GEMA, Department of Animal Reproduction, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Sivasubramanian N, Mahalakshmi B, Garg S, Aiyubdaud PS, Soma B, Shaijo KJ, Abraham R, Ramji BK. Boosting awareness on healthy habits among school children in north Gujarat, India. Bioinformation 2022; 18:786-790. [PMID: 37426510 PMCID: PMC10326331 DOI: 10.6026/97320630018786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Hygiene is the science of health and its maintenance. Hygiene status of children is an index of national investment in the development of its man power. It is influenced by social, familial and individual factors as well as the children's knowledge of health on personal hygiene, comfort and basic needs. The utility of games is as a teaching strategy of health professionals. The main objectives of the study were to assess existing level of awareness regarding healthy habits among school children and to check the effect of Modified snake & ladder game in improving the awareness of children regarding healthy habits. Research design selected for this study was pre experimental one group pretest posttest design with a sample size of 60. Samples of the study were given opportunity to play and earn awareness through the modified snake & ladder game. Their awareness was assessed before and after the game section. Data was analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics such as mean, standard deviation and chi square test. In data analysis the mean of pre-test score was 13.83 and mean of post-test score was 18.63. The mean difference was 4.8. The standard deviation of pre-test stress score was 01.07 and post-test stress score was 01.60. The calculated' 't' value was 21.24, which was greater than the table value(1.67).The study concluded that snake and ladder game was effective in improving the awareness of school children on healthy habits.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Sivasubramanian
- Department of Psychiatric Nursing, Nootan College of Nursing, Sankalchand Patel University, Visnagar, Gujarat - 384315, India
| | - B Mahalakshmi
- Department Paediatric Nursing, Nootan College of Nursing, Sankalchand Patel University, Visnagar, Gujarat - 384315, India
| | - Sandeep Garg
- Tantia University, Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, India
| | | | - Bepari Soma
- Sankalchand Patel University, Visnagar, Gujarat - 384315, India
| | - KJ Shaijo
- Sankalchand Patel University, Visnagar, Gujarat - 384315, India
| | - Robin Abraham
- Sankalchand Patel University, Visnagar, Gujarat - 384315, India
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Lee JM, Song JH, Song KH. A Retrospective Evaluation of Snake Envenomation in Dogs in South Korea (2004-2021). Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14. [PMID: 36006225 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14080565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Snake envenomation is a medical emergency capable of causing local and systemic complications. However, information on venomous snakebite in dogs in South Korea is scarce. In this study, fifty-nine dogs treated at a private veterinary clinic from 2004 to 2021 were retrospectively studied. The aim was to characterize the demographics, elapsed time between snakebite and veterinary clinic presentation, laboratory findings, clinical signs, treatments, adverse reactions to antivenom, and prognosis of venomous snakebite. Snakebite was mostly observed between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. from April to October. On the days of envenomation, the weather conditions were mostly cloudy, followed by rain/precipitation, and least frequently fair weather. Grassland was the most common incident location, and leashed dog walking was the most frequent activity when snakebite occurred. The main local symptoms were edema, hemorrhagic discharge, cutaneous erythema, ulceration, and necrosis. Major systemic clinical signs were tachypnea, tachycardia, altered mentation, ptyalism, and hypotension. Based on the time interval between snakebite and presentation at the veterinary clinic, two groups were defined: <4 h (Group 1, 49.2%) and ≥4 h (Group 2, 50.8%). Systemic inflammation was more frequently observed in Group 2. The level of C-reactive protein at presentation (p = 0.036) and the highest-level during hospitalization (p = 0.023) were significantly elevated in Group 2 (≥4 h). The dogs in Group 2 displayed more frequent muscle damage (increased creatine kinase) than the dogs in Group 1, and a higher level of creatine kinase was associated with delayed (≥4 h) presentation after snakebite (p = 0.003). All of the dogs were treated symptomatically, and 34 dogs (58%) received antivenom. Treatment with antivenom showed no adverse reactions in this study. All of the treated dogs recovered. One dog was euthanized without any treatment due to respiratory distress, hypotension, and cost constraints. In conclusion, this study provides baseline information on venomous snakebite in dogs in South Korea. The prognosis was excellent, especially when the dogs were treated within 4 h.
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Si H, Yin C, Wang W, Davies P, Sanchez E, Suntravat M, Zawieja D, Cromer W. Effect of the snake venom component crotamine on lymphatic endothelial cell responses and lymph transport. Microcirculation 2022; 30:e12775. [PMID: 35689804 PMCID: PMC9850291 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The pathology of snake envenomation is closely tied to the severity of edema in the tissue surrounding the area of the bite. Elucidating the mechanisms that promote the development of such severe edema is critical to a better understanding of how to treat this life-threatening injury. We focused on one of the most abundant venom components in North American viper venom, crotamine, and the effects it has on the cells and function of the lymphatic system. METHODS We used RT-PCR to identify the location and relative abundance of crotamine's cellular targets (Kvα channels) within the tissues and cells of the lymphatic system. We used calcium flux, nitrate production, and cell morphometry to determine the effects of crotamine on lymphatic endothelial cells. We used tracer transport, node morphometry, and node deposition to determine the effects of crotamine on lymph transport in vivo. RESULTS We found that genes that encode targets of crotamine are highly present in lymphatic tissues and cells and that there is a differential distribution of those genes that correlates with phasic contractile activity. We found that crotamine potentiates calcium flux in human dermal lymphatic endothelial cells in response to stimulation with histamine and sheer stress (but not alone) and that it alters the production of nitric oxide in response to shear as well as changes the level of F-actin polymerization of those same cells. Crotamine alters lymphatic transport of large molecular weight tracers to local lymph nodes and is deposited within the node mostly in the immediate subcapsular region. CONCLUSION This evidence suggests that snake venom components may have an impact on the function of the lymphatic system. This needs to be studied in greater detail as there are numerous venom components that may have effects on aspects of the lymphatic system. This would not only provide basic information on the pathobiology of snakebite but also provide targets for improved therapeutics to treat snakebite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjiang Si
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University Health Science Center
| | - Chunhiu Yin
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Texas A&M Institute of Biosciences and Technology
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University Health Science Center
| | - Peter Davies
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Texas A&M Institute of Biosciences and Technology
| | - Elda Sanchez
- National Natural Toxins Research Center, Texas A&M Kingsville
| | | | - David Zawieja
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University Health Science Center
| | - Walter Cromer
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University Health Science Center
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Gong T, Su X, Li F, He J, Chen S, Li W, Xie X, Liu Y, Zhang X, Liu W. Epidemiology and Genetic Diversity of Spirometra Tapeworm Isolates from Snakes in Hunan Province, China. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:1216. [PMID: 35565642 PMCID: PMC9101633 DOI: 10.3390/ani12091216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Sparganosis, caused by the plerocercoid larvae of Spirometra tapeworms, is a public health hazard worldwide. The prevalence and genetics of sparganum from snakes remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the prevalence of sparganum infection in wild snakes in Hunan province and compared the prevalence of Spirometra tapeworms in snakes worldwide. Furthermore, the genetic diversity of collected isolates was analyzed using mitochondrial cytb and cox1 genes. The result shows that the sparganum infection rate in wild snakes (89.50%, 402/449) was higher in Hunan than in other regions. Genetic diversity analysis based on concatenated sequences revealed high genetic diversity but no distinct genetic structure among Spirometra populations. Phylogenetic analysis supported the division of European and Chinese Spirometra isolates and a single species in Chinese Spirometra isolates. The prevalence of Spirometra tapeworms in snakes is serious, and the risk of sparganosis should be further publicized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tengfang Gong
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China; (T.G.); (F.L.); (J.H.); (S.C.); (W.L.); (X.X.); (Y.L.)
| | - Xiaoyi Su
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China;
| | - Fen Li
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China; (T.G.); (F.L.); (J.H.); (S.C.); (W.L.); (X.X.); (Y.L.)
| | - Junlin He
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China; (T.G.); (F.L.); (J.H.); (S.C.); (W.L.); (X.X.); (Y.L.)
| | - Shuyu Chen
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China; (T.G.); (F.L.); (J.H.); (S.C.); (W.L.); (X.X.); (Y.L.)
| | - Wenchao Li
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China; (T.G.); (F.L.); (J.H.); (S.C.); (W.L.); (X.X.); (Y.L.)
| | - Xinrui Xie
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China; (T.G.); (F.L.); (J.H.); (S.C.); (W.L.); (X.X.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yisong Liu
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China; (T.G.); (F.L.); (J.H.); (S.C.); (W.L.); (X.X.); (Y.L.)
| | - Xi Zhang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China;
| | - Wei Liu
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China; (T.G.); (F.L.); (J.H.); (S.C.); (W.L.); (X.X.); (Y.L.)
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Vaccine & Protein Engineering, Changsha 410128, China
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Emer SA, Grace MS, Mora CV, Harvey MT. Pit organ-based infrared discrimination sensitivity and signal transduction in the Burmese python (Python molurus bivitattus). Behav Brain Res 2022; 429:113910. [PMID: 35513170 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2022.113910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Burmese pythons (Python molurus bivitattus) use a unique infrared (IR) targeting system to acquire prey, avoid predators and seek thermoregulatory sites through detection of IR energy in the environment. Previous studies of sensitivity of the python IR system that relied on analysis of complex, natural behaviors lacked robust, reliable responses in animals habituated to experiments, and in vitro electrophysiological study failed to test behavioral function of the implicated protein thermoreceptor, TRPA1. The present study used conditioned discrimination procedures to analyze behavioral sensitivity and signal transduction in the python IR system. Pythons trained to behaviorally discriminate thermal stimuli averaged 70% correct choices, but failed to make correct choices when pit organs were physically occluded with IR-blocking material. The pythons exhibited greater sensitivity to thermal stimuli than previously reported, evident by correct choices that exceeded chance in response to a 14×10-6Wcm-2 irradiance contrast, or 0.5°C thermal differential. Finally, in a test of the behavioral role of the putative thermoreceptor protein TRPA1, despite pit organ treatment with a TRPA1 inhibitor, python performance exceeded chance and was similar to baseline discrimination and control trials. Collectively, the results suggest that the IR system is a high sensitivity, broad-spectrum thermosensor that may operate through different and/or multiple thermoreceptive proteins with overlapping spectral response profiles. The findings reported here provide a better understanding of the relationship between the brain, behavior and environment in driving survival and ecological success of the Burmese python, especially as an invasive megapredator in the southern United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherri A Emer
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, FL 33965 USA.
| | - Michael S Grace
- Department of Biomedical and Chemical Engineering and Sciences, Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, Florida, USA
| | - Cordula V Mora
- Department of Psychology, J. P. Scott Center for Neuroscience, Mind and Behavior, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio, USA
| | - Mark T Harvey
- Department of Psychology, Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, Florida, USA
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Huynh TM, Silva A, Isbister GK, Hodgson WC. Isolation and Characterization of Two Postsynaptic Neurotoxins From Indian Cobra ( Naja Naja) Venom. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:815079. [PMID: 35418867 PMCID: PMC8996157 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.815079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The Indian Cobra (Naja naja) is among the “Big Four” responsible for most of the snakebite envenoming cases in India. Although recent proteomic studies suggest the presence of postsynaptic neurotoxins in N. naja venom, little is known about the pharmacology of these toxins. We isolated and characterized α-Elapitoxin-Nn2a (α-EPTX-Nn2a; 7020 Da) and α-Elapitoxin-Nn3a (α-EPTX-Nn3a; 7807 Da), a short-chain and long-chain postsynaptic neurotoxin, respectively, which constitute 1 and 3% of N. naja venom. α-EPTX-Nn2a (100–300 nM) and α-EPTX-Nn3a (100–300 nM) both induced concentration-dependent inhibition of indirect twitches and abolished contractile responses of tissues to exogenous acetylcholine and carbachol, in the chick biventer cervicis nerve-muscle preparation. The prior incubation of tissues with Indian polyvalent antivenom (1 ml/0.6 mg) prevented the in vitro neurotoxic effects of α-EPTX-Nn2a (100 nM) and α-EPTX-Nn3a (100 nM). The addition of Indian polyvalent antivenom (1 ml/0.6 mg), at the t90 time point, could not reverse the in vitro neurotoxicity of α-EPTX-Nn2a (100 nM). The in vitro neurotoxicity of α-EPTX-Nn3a (100 nM) was partially reversed by the addition of Indian polyvalent antivenom (1 ml/0.6 mg), as well as repeated washing of the tissue. α-EPTX-Nn2a displayed non-competitive antagonism of concentration-response curves to carbachol, with a pA2 of 8.01. In contrast, α-EPTX-Nn3a showed reversible antagonism of concentration-response curves to carbachol, with a pA2 of 8.17. De novo sequencing of α-EPTX-Nn2a and α-EPTX-Nn3a showed a short-chain and long-chain postsynaptic neurotoxin, respectively, with 62 and 71 amino acids. The important observation made in this study is that antivenom can reverse the neurotoxicity of the clinically important long-chain neurotoxin, but not the short-chain neurotoxin, from N. naja venom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tam M Huynh
- Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Anjana Silva
- Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
| | - Geoffrey K Isbister
- Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Clinical Toxicology Research Group, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Wayne C Hodgson
- Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Huynh TM, Silva A, Isbister GK, Hodgson WC. Isolation and Pharmacological Characterization of α-Elapitoxin-Oh3a, a Long-Chain Post-Synaptic Neurotoxin From King Cobra ( Ophiophagus hannah) Venom. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:815069. [PMID: 35341214 PMCID: PMC8942764 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.815069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) is the world's largest venomous snake and has a widespread geographical distribution throughout Southeast Asia. Despite proteomic studies indicating the presence of postsynaptic neurotoxins in O. hannah venom, there are few pharmacological investigations of these toxins. We isolated and characterized α-elapitoxin-Oh3a (α-EPTX-Oh3a; 7,938 Da), a long-chain postsynaptic neurotoxin, which constitutes 5% of O. hannah venom. α-EPTX-Oh3a (100-300 nM) caused concentration-dependent inhibition of indirect twitches and inhibited contractile responses of tissues to exogenous acetylcholine and carbachol, in the chick biventer cervicis nerve-muscle preparation. The prior incubation of tissues with Thai Red Cross Society King Cobra antivenom (1 ml/0.8 mg) prevented the in vitro neurotoxic effects of α-EPTX-Oh3a (100 nM). The addition of Thai Red Cross Society King Cobra antivenom (1 ml/0.8 mg), at the t90 time point partially reversed the in vitro neurotoxicity of α-EPTX-Oh3a (100 nM). Repeatedly washing the tissue did not allow significant recovery from the in vitro neurotoxic effects of α-EPTX-Oh3a (100 nM). α-EPTX-Oh3a demonstrated pseudo-irreversible antagonism of concentration-response curves to carbachol, with a pA2 of 8.99. De novo sequencing of α-EPTX-Oh3a showed a long-chain postsynaptic neurotoxin with 72 amino acids, sharing 100% sequence identity with Long neurotoxin OH-55. In conclusion, the antivenom is useful for reversing the clinically important long-chain α-neurotoxin-mediated neuromuscular paralysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tam M Huynh
- Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Anjana Silva
- Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
| | - Geoffrey K Isbister
- Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Clinical Toxicology Research Group, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Wayne C Hodgson
- Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Utkin Y, Siniavin A, Kasheverov I, Tsetlin V. Antiviral Effects of Animal Toxins: Is There a Way to Drugs? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:3634. [PMID: 35408989 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Viruses infect all types of organisms, causing viral diseases, which are very common in humans. Since viruses use the metabolic pathways of their host cells to replicate, they are difficult to eradicate without affecting the cells. The most effective measures against viral infections are vaccinations and antiviral drugs, which selectively inhibit the viral replication cycle. Both methods have disadvantages, which requires the development of new approaches to the treatment of viral diseases. In the study of animal venoms, it was found that, in addition to toxicity, venoms exhibit other types of biological activity, including an antiviral one, the first mention of which dates back to middle of the last century, but detailed studies of their antiviral activity have been conducted over the past 15 years. The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced these studies and several compounds with antiviral activity have been identified in venoms. Some of them are very active and can be considered as the basis for antiviral drugs. This review discusses recent antiviral studies, the found compounds with high antiviral activity, and the possible mechanisms of their action. The prospects for using the animal venom components to create antiviral drugs, and the expected problems and possible solutions are also considered.
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Rucker HR, Parker MR. Decreased attractivity in female garter snakes treated with an aromatase inhibitor. J Exp Zool A Ecol Integr Physiol 2022; 337:171-180. [PMID: 34533896 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Most experimental studies on sexual signal regulation via hormone manipulation have focused on male signals, yet female signals demonstrate substantial phenotypic variation and hormone-dependent expression. Female red-sided garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis) produce a skin-based sex pheromone used by males in mate selection. The principle female sex steroid, 17 β-estradiol, controls pheromone production in snakes, but studies manipulating female garter snakes have produced conflicting results, relied on behavioral tests with males in the laboratory, and did not quantify pheromone expression. Because aromatase is the terminal enzyme in estradiol biosynthesis, we hypothesized that female garter snakes rely on aromatase to ultimately control pheromone production during the annual cycle of this species. To test this, we used a known pharmacological inhibitor of aromatase, fadrozole (FAD). Wild-caught female garter snakes were chronically treated via subcutaneous injections of either FAD (1.0 mg kg-1 ) or saline (control) for six months in the laboratory during the active period of the annual cycle then hibernated. In two separate field bioassays the next spring at the den site, FAD females received approximately 50% less courtship from wild, sexually active male garter snakes compared to SHAM females. Pheromone analysis revealed that four of the largest, unsaturated methyl ketones were specifically downregulated in FAD females, indicating that aromatase action is a crucial, permissive step in the maintenance of female attractivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly R Rucker
- Department of Biology, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Virginia, USA
| | - M Rockwell Parker
- Department of Biology, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Virginia, USA
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Abstract
Understanding snake venom proteomes is becoming increasingly important to understand snake venom biology, evolution and especially clinical effects of venoms and approaches to antivenom development. To explore the current state of snake venom proteomics and transcriptomics we investigated venom proteomic methods, associations between methodological and biological variability and the diversity and abundance of protein families. We reviewed available studies on snake venom proteomes from September 2017 to April 2021. This included 81 studies characterising venom proteomes of 79 snake species, providing data on relative toxin abundance for 70 species and toxin diversity (number of different toxins) for 37 species. Methodologies utilised in these studies were summarised and compared. Several comparative studies showed that preliminary decomplexation of crude venom by chromatography leads to increased protein identification, as does the use of transcriptomics. Combining different methodological strategies in venomic approaches appears to maximize proteome coverage. 48% of studies used the RP-HPLC →1D SDS-PAGE →in-gel trypsin digestion → ESI -LC-MS/MS pathway. Protein quantification by MS1-based spectral intensity was used twice as commonly as MS2-based spectral counting (33–15 studies). Total toxin diversity was 25–225 toxins/species, with a median of 48. The relative mean abundance of the four dominant protein families was for elapids; 3FTx–52%, PLA2–27%, SVMP–2.8%, and SVSP–0.1%, and for vipers: 3FTx–0.5%, PLA2–24%, SVMP–27%, and SVSP–12%. Viper venoms were compositionally more complex than elapid venoms in terms of number of protein families making up most of the venom, in contrast, elapid venoms were made up of fewer, but more toxin diverse, protein families. No relationship was observed between relative toxin diversity and abundance. For equivalent comparisons to be made between studies, there is a need to clarify the differences between methodological approaches and for acceptance of a standardised protein classification, nomenclature and reporting procedure. Correctly measuring and comparing toxin diversity and abundance is essential for understanding biological, clinical and evolutionary implications of snake venom composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theo Tasoulis
- Clinical Toxicology Research Group, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Tara L Pukala
- Department of Chemistry, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Geoffrey K Isbister
- Clinical Toxicology Research Group, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
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Ramirez-Cueva F, Larsen A, Knowlton E, Baab K, Rainey Kiehl R, Hendrix A, Condren M, Woslager M. Predictors of FabAV use in copperhead envenomation. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2022; 60:609-614. [PMID: 34989644 DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2021.2018454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Crotaline snake envenomation is a serious medical condition affecting thousands of Americans each year. Variation in the treatment of Crotaline snakebites exists among physicians in the United States. Management of copperhead snakebites is controversial with some experts advocating minimal intervention, rarely necessitating antivenom use and, even more rarely, surgical intervention. This study assessed the use of Crotaline Polyvalent Immune Fab antivenom (Ovine) (FabAV) and explored factors influencing the decision to prescribe antivenom for copperhead envenomation in patients in Northeastern Oklahoma. METHODS A retrospective cohort study examining electronic medical records of patients with copperhead snakebites from July 1, 2014 to August 31, 2019. Data collected included: patient demographics, transfer information, snake species, bite site, progression of local tissue effects, additional clinical and lab results, patient comorbidities, and treatment strategy. Associations between patient variables and treatment were evaluated using the chi-square test of independence, median test, and logistic regression analysis. Associations were statistically significant if p < 0.05. DISCUSSION Of the 130 patients bitten by a copperhead, a majority (75%) received FabAV. Symptoms of copperhead envenomation were mostly limited to the progression of tissue damage. Predictors of treatment with FabAV included progression of venom effects across major joints, younger age, comorbidities, and upper extremity bites. CONCLUSIONS Patients who have multiple comorbidities, upper extremity bites and progression of venom effects across major joints are more likely to be treated with FabAV. The high usage of FabAV at the study site underscores the need for continued work to optimize the use of antivenom for copperhead envenomations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adam Larsen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Elise Knowlton
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Kelsey Baab
- College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Robin Rainey Kiehl
- College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Amy Hendrix
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Michelle Condren
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Megan Woslager
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine, Tulsa, OK, USA
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Morrill BH, MacKnight HP, Flagle AR, Pirro S. The Complete Genome Sequence of the Simalia boeleni, the Boelen's Python. Biodivers Genomes 2022; 2022:10.56179/001c.38128. [PMID: 36420082 PMCID: PMC9681057 DOI: 10.56179/001c.38128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
The Boelen's Python (Simalia boeleni) is a python endemic to the mountains of New Guinea. We present the whole genome sequence of this species. Illumina sequencing was performed on a genetic sample from a single individual. The reads were assembled using a de novo method followed by a series of references from related species for finishing. The raw and assembled data is publicly available via Genbank: Sequence Read Archive (SRR19167501) and assembled genome (JANKYG000000000).
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Morrill BH, Bessell IS, Pirro S. The Complete Genome Sequence of Morelia viridis, the Green Tree Python. Biodivers Genomes 2022; 2022:18-19. [PMID: 36644785 PMCID: PMC9835526 DOI: 10.56179/001c.66204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The Green Tree Python (Morelia viridis) is a snake native to New Guinea, some islands in Indonesia, and the Cape York Peninsula in Australia. We present the whole genome sequence for this species. Illumina sequencing was performed on a genetic sample from a single individual. The reads were assembled using a de novo method followed by a series of references from related species for finishing. The raw and assembled data are publicly available via Genbank: Sequence Read Archive (SRR19167500) and genome (JANHOE000000000).
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47
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Escoriza D. Dispersal patterns of Squamata in the Mediterranean: An evolutionary perspective. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:14733-14743. [PMID: 34765137 PMCID: PMC8571612 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.8159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mediterranean islands have a high diversity of squamates, although they are unevenly distributed. This variability in the composition of the reptile assemblages across islands may have been influenced by differences in the colonization abilities of these species. To evaluate the dispersal capacities of squamate species, we modeled their sea routes using cost surface models. We estimated the effects of some life-history traits and the phylogenetic signal in the characteristics of the modeled dispersal paths. We hypothesized that a significant phylogenetic signal should be present if the dispersal ability is enhanced by traits shared among evolutionarily related species. The results showed that no phylogenetic signal was present in the characteristics of the dispersal paths (i.e., in the distance traveled/bypassed sea depth). Thus, no superior island-colonizer lineages were detected in Mediterranean Squamata. However, our analyses also revealed that small-sized lizards were superior to other groups of squamates at dispersing over long distances on the sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Escoriza
- GRECO, Institute of Aquatic EcologyUniversity of GironaGironaSpain
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Snake venoms contain many protein and peptide isoforms with high levels of sequence variation, even within a single species. AREAS COVERED In this review, we highlight several examples, from both published and unpublished work in our lab, demonstrating how a combined venom gland transcriptome and proteome methodology allows for comprehensive characterization of venoms, including those from understudied rear-fanged snake species, and we provide recommendations for using these approaches. EXPERT OPINION When characterizing venoms, peptide mass fingerprinting using databases built predominately from protein sequences originating from model organisms can be disadvantageous, especially when the intention is to document protein diversity. Therefore, the use of species-specific venom gland transcriptomes corrects for the absence of these unique peptide sequences in databases. The integration of transcriptomics and proteomics improves the accuracy of either approach alone for venom profiling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anthony J Saviola
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, USA
| | - Stephen P Mackessy
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, USA
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Southern CJ, Allen‐Durrance AE, Schaer M. Pit viper envenomation in pediatric dogs: 5 cases. Clin Case Rep 2021; 9:e05065. [PMID: 34804530 PMCID: PMC8588840 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.5065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment of pit viper envenomated puppies (≤6 months old) with antivenom was well tolerated, similar to adult dogs. However, therapeutic guidelines should be established to direct use and prove efficacy in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl J. Southern
- College of Veterinary MedicineSmall Animal Clinical SciencesUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFloridaUSA
| | - Ashley E. Allen‐Durrance
- College of Veterinary MedicineSmall Animal Clinical SciencesUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFloridaUSA
| | - Michael Schaer
- College of Veterinary MedicineSmall Animal Clinical SciencesUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFloridaUSA
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50
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Ho CH, Chiang LC, Mao YC, Lan KC, Tsai SH, Shih YJ, Tzeng YS, Lin CS, Lin WL, Fang WH, Chen KT, Lee CH, Chiang DML, Liu SH. Analysis of the Necrosis-Inducing Components of the Venom of Naja atra and Assessment of the Neutralization Ability of Freeze-Dried Antivenom. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13090619. [PMID: 34564623 PMCID: PMC8473173 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13090619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients bitten by Naja atra who are treated with bivalent freeze-dried neurotoxic antivenom in Taiwan have an improved survival rate but develop necrotic wound changes. The World Health Organization (WHO) has suggested using the minimum necrotizing dose (MND) of venom as a method of evaluating the neutralization effect of antivenom. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of antivenom for the prevention of necrosis based on the MND and clarify which component of the venom of N. atra induces necrosis. The neurotoxins (NTXs) were removed from the crude venom (deNTXs), and different concentrations of deNTXs were injected intradermally into the dorsal skin of mice. After three days, the necrotic lesion diameter was found to be approximately 5 mm, and the MND was calculated. A reduction in the necrotic diameter of 50% was used to identify the MND50. Furthermore, both phospholipase A2 (PLA2) and cytotoxins (CTXs) were separately removed from the deNTXs to identify the major necrosis-inducing factor, and the necrotic lesions were scored. All mice injected with deNTXs survived for three days and developed necrotic wounds. The MND of the deNTXs for mice was 0.494 ± 0.029 µg/g, that of the deNTXs-dePLA2 (major component retained: CTXs) was 0.294 ± 0.05 µg/g, and that of the deNTX-deCTX (major component retained: PLA2) venom was greater than 1.25 µg/g. These values show that CTX is the major factor inducing necrosis. These results suggest that the use of the deNTXs is necessary to enable the mice to survive long enough to develop venom-induced cytolytic effects. CTXs play a major role in N. atra-related necrosis. However, the MND50 could not be identified in this study, which meant that the antivenom did not neutralize venom-induced necrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Hsuan Ho
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan; (C.-H.H.); (K.-C.L.); (S.-H.T.)
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Liao-Chun Chiang
- College of Life Sciences, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan;
- Institute of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan
| | - Yan-Chiao Mao
- Division of Clinical Toxicology, Department of Emergency Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407, Taiwan;
| | - Kuo-Cheng Lan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan; (C.-H.H.); (K.-C.L.); (S.-H.T.)
| | - Shih-Hung Tsai
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan; (C.-H.H.); (K.-C.L.); (S.-H.T.)
| | - Yu-Jen Shih
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan; (Y.-J.S.); (Y.-S.T.)
| | - Yuan-Sheng Tzeng
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan; (Y.-J.S.); (Y.-S.T.)
| | - Chin-Sheng Lin
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan;
| | - Wen-Loung Lin
- Taichung Wildlife Conservation Group, Taichung 436, Taiwan; (W.-L.L.); (W.-H.F.)
| | - Wei-Hsuan Fang
- Taichung Wildlife Conservation Group, Taichung 436, Taiwan; (W.-L.L.); (W.-H.F.)
| | - Kuang-Ting Chen
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Chang Bing Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 505, Taiwan;
| | - Chi-Hsin Lee
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan;
| | - Dapi Meng-Lin Chiang
- Division of Animal Physiology and Immunology, TUM School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University Munich, 85354 Freising, Germany;
| | - Shing-Hwa Liu
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2-23123456 (ext. 88605)
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