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Apoorva, Singh SK. A tale of endurance: bats, viruses and immune dynamics. Future Microbiol 2024; 19:841-856. [PMID: 38648093 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2023-0233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence of highly zoonotic viral infections has propelled bat research forward. The viral outbreaks including Hendra virus, Nipah virus, Marburg virus, Ebola virus, Rabies virus, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus, SARS-CoV and the latest SARS-CoV-2 have been epidemiologically linked to various bat species. Bats possess unique immunological characteristics that allow them to serve as a potential viral reservoir. Bats are also known to protect themselves against viruses and maintain their immunity. Therefore, there is a need for in-depth understanding into bat-virus biology to unravel the major factors contributing to the coexistence and spread of viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apoorva
- Molecular Biology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - Sunit Kumar Singh
- Molecular Biology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
- Dr. B R Ambedkar Center for Biomedical Research, University of Delhi (North Campus), New Delhi, 110007, India
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2
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Ng K, Morais S, Wissing MD, Burchell AN, Tellier PP, Coutlée F, Waterboer T, El-Zein M, Franco EL. Empirical sample-specific approaches to define HPV16 and HPV18 seropositivity in unvaccinated, young, sexually active women. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0022924. [PMID: 38687066 PMCID: PMC11324019 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00229-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Given low seroconversion rates following human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, fixed external cutoffs may lead to errors in estimating HPV seroprevalence. We evaluated finite mixture modeling (FMM) and group-based trajectory modeling (GBTM) among unvaccinated, sexually active, HPV-exposed women to determine study-specific HPV16 and HPV18 seropositivity thresholds. We included 399 women (aged 18-24 years) enrolled in the HPV Infection and Transmission Among Couples Through Heterosexual Activity (HITCH) cohort study between 2005 and 2011 in Montreal, Canada. Participants' blood samples from up to six visits spanning 2 years were tested by multiplex serology for antibodies [median fluorescence intensity (MFI)] specific to bacterially expressed HPV16 and HPV18 L1 glutathione S-transferase fusion proteins. We applied FMM and GBTM to baseline and longitudinal antibody titer measurements, respectively, to define HPV type-specific seronegative and seropositive distributions. Study-specific thresholds were generated as five standard deviations above the mean seronegative antibody titers, mimicking cutoffs (HPV16: 422 MFI; HPV18: 394 MFI) derived from an external population of sexually inactive, HPV DNA-negative Korean women (aged 15-29 years). Agreement (kappa) of study-specific thresholds was evaluated against external cutoffs. Seroprevalence estimates using FMM (HPV16: 27.5%-43.2%; HPV18: 21.7%-49.5%) and GBTM (HPV16: 11.8%-11.8%; HPV18: 9.9%-13.4%) thresholds exceeded those of external cutoffs (HPV: 10.2%; HPV18: 9.7%). FMM thresholds showed slight-to-moderate agreement with external cutoffs (HPV16: 0.26%-0.46%; HPV18: 0.20%-0.56%), while GBTM thresholds exhibited high agreement (HPV16: 0.92%-0.92%; HPV18: 0.82%-0.99%). Kappa values suggest that GBTM, used for longitudinal serological data, and otherwise FMM, for cross-sectional data, are robust methods for determining the HPV serostatus without prior classification rules.IMPORTANCEWhile human papillomavirus (HPV) seropositivity has been employed as an epidemiologic determinant of the natural history of genital HPV infections, only a fraction of women incidentally infected with HPV respond by developing significant antibody levels. HPV seropositivity is often determined by a dichotomous fixed cutoff based on the seroreactivity of an external population of women presumed as seronegative, given the lack of evidence of HPV exposure. However, considering the variable nature of seroreactivity upon HPV infection, which arguably varies across populations, such externally defined cutoffs may lack specificity to the population of interest, causing inappropriate assessment of HPV seroprevalence and related epidemiologic uses of that information. This study demonstrates that finite mixture modeling (FMM) and group-based trajectory modeling (GBTM) can be used to independently estimate seroprevalence or serve as the basis for defining study-specific seropositivity thresholds without requiring prior subjective assumptions, consequently providing a more apt internally valid discrimination of seropositive from seronegative individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristy Ng
- Division of Cancer
Epidemiology, McGill University,
Montreal, Quebec,
Canada
| | - Samantha Morais
- Division of Cancer
Epidemiology, McGill University,
Montreal, Quebec,
Canada
| | - Michel D. Wissing
- Division of Cancer
Epidemiology, McGill University,
Montreal, Quebec,
Canada
| | - Ann N. Burchell
- Department of Family
and Community Medicine and MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka
Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Unity Health
Toronto, Toronto,
Ontario, Canada
- Department of Family
and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of
Toronto, Toronto,
Ontario, Canada
| | | | - François Coutlée
- Division of Cancer
Epidemiology, McGill University,
Montreal, Quebec,
Canada
- Laboratoire de
Virologie Moléculaire, Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier
de l'Université de
Montréal, Montreal,
Quebec, Canada
- Départements de
Microbiologie, Infectiologie et Immunologie, et de
Gynécologie‐Obstétrique, Université de
Montréal, Montreal,
Quebec, Canada
- Départements de
Médecine, de Médecine clinique de Laboratoire et
d'Obstétrique‐Gynécologie, Centre Hospitalier de
l'Université de Montréal,
Montreal, Quebec,
Canada
| | - Tim Waterboer
- Infections and Cancer
Epidemiology Division, German Cancer Research
Center, Heidelberg,
Germany
| | - Mariam El-Zein
- Division of Cancer
Epidemiology, McGill University,
Montreal, Quebec,
Canada
| | - Eduardo L. Franco
- Division of Cancer
Epidemiology, McGill University,
Montreal, Quebec,
Canada
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3
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McDougall F, Gordon D, Robins-Browne R, Bennett-Wood V, Boardman WSJ, Graham PL, Power M. Characterisation of typical enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (tEPEC) lineages and novel bfpA variants detected in Australian fruit bats (Pteropus poliocephalus). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:166336. [PMID: 37591385 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) is an important cause of diarrhoeal disease in human infants. EPEC strains are defined by the presence of specific virulence factors including intimin (encoded by the eae gene) and bundle forming pili (Bfp). Bfp is encoded by the bfp operon and includes the bfpA gene for the major pilus subunit. By definition, Bfp are only present in typical EPEC (tEPEC), for which, humans are considered to be the only known natural host. This study detected tEPEC in faecal samples from a wild Australian fruit bat species, the grey-headed flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus). Whole genome sequencing of 61 E. coli isolates from flying-foxes revealed that 21.3 % (95%CI: 13 %-33 %) were tEPEC. Phylogenetic analyses showed flying-fox tEPEC shared evolutionary lineages with human EPEC, but were predominantly novel sequence types (9 of 13) and typically harboured novel bfpA variants (11 of 13). HEp-2 cell adhesion assays showed adherence to human-derived epithelial cells by all 13 flying-fox tEPEC, indicating that they all carried functional Bfp. Using an EPEC-specific duplex PCR, it was determined that tEPEC comprised 17.4 % (95%CI: 13 %-22 %) of 270 flying-fox E. coli isolates. Furthermore, a tEPEC-specific multiplex PCR detected the eae and bfpA virulence genes in 18.0 % (95%CI: 8.0 %-33.7 %) of 506 flying-fox faecal DNA samples, with occurrences ranging from 1.3 % to 87.0 % across five geographic areas sampled over a four-year period. The identification of six novel tEPEC sequence types and five novel bfpA variants suggests flying-foxes carry bat-specific tEPEC lineages. However, their close relationship with human EPEC and functional Bfp, indicates that flying-fox tEPEC have zoonotic potential and that dissemination of flying-fox tEPEC into urban environments may pose a public health risk. The consistent detection of tEPEC in flying-foxes over extensive geographical and temporal scales indicates that both wild grey-headed flying-foxes and humans should be regarded as natural tEPEC hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona McDougall
- School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia.
| | - David Gordon
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, ACT 2601, Australia.
| | - Roy Robins-Browne
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, VIC 3052, Australia.
| | - Vicki Bennett-Wood
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, VIC 3052, Australia.
| | - Wayne S J Boardman
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, SA 5371, Australia.
| | - Petra L Graham
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia.
| | - Michelle Power
- School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia.
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4
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Ahmed AS, Bekele A, Kasso M, Atickem A. Impact of climate change on the distribution and predicted habitat suitability of two fruit bats ( Rousettus aegyptiacus and Epomophorus labiatus) in Ethiopia: Implications for conservation. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10481. [PMID: 37711498 PMCID: PMC10497737 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Fruit bats serve as crucial bioindicators, seed dispersers, pollinators, and contributors to food security within ecosystems. However, their population and distribution were threatened by climate change and anthropogenic pressures. Understanding the impacts of these pressures through mapping distribution and habitat suitability is crucial for identifying high-priority areas and implementing effective conservation and management plans. We predicted the distribution and extent of habitat suitability for Rousettus aegyptiacus and Epomophorus labiatus under climate change scenarios using average predictions from four different algorithms to produce an ensemble model. Seasonal precipitation, population index, land-use land cover, vegetation, and the mean temperature of the driest quarter majorly contributed to the predicted habitat suitability for both species. The current predicted sizes of suitable habitats for R. aegyptiacus and E. labiatus were varied, on average 60,271.4 and 85,176.1 km2, respectively. The change in species range size for R. aegyptiacus showed gains in suitable areas of 24.4% and 22.8% in 2050 and 2070, respectively. However, for E. labiatus, suitable areas decreased by 0.95% and 2% in 2050 and 2070, respectively. The range size change of suitable areas between 2050 and 2070 for R. aegyptiacus and E. labiatus shows losses of 1.5% and 1.2%, respectively. The predicted maps indicate that the midlands and highlands of southern and eastern Ethiopia harbor highly suitable areas for both species. In contrast, the areas in the northern and central highlands are fragmented. The current model findings show that climate change and anthropogenic pressures have notable impacts on the geographic ranges of two species. Moreover, the predicted suitable habitats for both species are found both within and outside of their historical ranges, which has important implications for conservation efforts. Our ensemble predictions are vital for identifying high-priority areas for fruit bat species conservation efforts and management to mitigate climate change and anthropogenic pressures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Seid Ahmed
- Department of BiologyHawassa UniversityHawassaEthiopia
- Department of Zoological SciencesAddis Ababa UniversityAddis AbabaEthiopia
| | - Afework Bekele
- Department of Zoological SciencesAddis Ababa UniversityAddis AbabaEthiopia
| | - Mohammed Kasso
- Department of BiologyDire Dawa UniversityDire DawaEthiopia
| | - Anagaw Atickem
- Department of Zoological SciencesAddis Ababa UniversityAddis AbabaEthiopia
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5
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Becker DJ, Eby P, Madden W, Peel AJ, Plowright RK. Ecological conditions predict the intensity of Hendra virus excretion over space and time from bat reservoir hosts. Ecol Lett 2023; 26:23-36. [PMID: 36310377 DOI: 10.1111/ele.14007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The ecological conditions experienced by wildlife reservoirs affect infection dynamics and thus the distribution of pathogen excreted into the environment. This spatial and temporal distribution of shed pathogen has been hypothesised to shape risks of zoonotic spillover. However, few systems have data on both long-term ecological conditions and pathogen excretion to advance mechanistic understanding and test environmental drivers of spillover risk. We here analyse three years of Hendra virus data from nine Australian flying fox roosts with covariates derived from long-term studies of bat ecology. We show that the magnitude of winter pulses of viral excretion, previously considered idiosyncratic, are most pronounced after recent food shortages and in bat populations displaced to novel habitats. We further show that cumulative pathogen excretion over time is shaped by bat ecology and positively predicts spillover frequency. Our work emphasises the role of reservoir host ecology in shaping pathogen excretion and provides a new approach to estimate spillover risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Becker
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA.,Department of Biology, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Peggy Eby
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, Griffith University, Queensland, Australia
| | - Wyatt Madden
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA
| | - Alison J Peel
- Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, Griffith University, Queensland, Australia
| | - Raina K Plowright
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA
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6
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Ch’ng L, Tsang SM, Ong ZA, Low DH, Wiantoro S, Smith IL, Simmons NB, Su YC, Lohman DJ, Smith GJ, Mendenhall IH. Co-circulation of alpha- and beta-coronaviruses in Pteropus vampyrus flying foxes from Indonesia. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:3917-3925. [PMID: 36382687 PMCID: PMC9898127 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Bats are important reservoirs for alpha- and beta-coronaviruses. Coronaviruses (CoV) have been detected in pteropodid bats from several Southeast Asian countries, but little is known about coronaviruses in the Indonesian archipelago in proportion to its mammalian biodiversity. In this study, we screened pooled faecal samples from the Indonesian colonies of Pteropus vampyrus with unbiased next-generation sequencing. Bat CoVs related to Rousettus leschenaultii CoV HKU9 and Eidolon helvum CoV were detected. The 121 faecal samples were further screened using a conventional hemi-nested pan-coronavirus PCR assay. Three positive samples were successfully sequenced, and phylogenetic reconstruction revealed the presence of alpha- and beta-coronaviruses. CoVs belonging to the subgenera Nobecovirus, Decacovirus and Pedacovirus were detected in a single P. vampyrus roost. This study expands current knowledge of coronavirus diversity in Indonesian flying foxes, highlighting the need for longitudinal surveillance of colonies as continuing urbanization and deforestation heighten the risk of spillover events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Ch’ng
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Susan M. Tsang
- Department of Mammalogy, Division of Vertebrate Zoology, American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY 10024, USA
- Biology Department, City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY 10031, USA
- Ph.D. Program in Biology, Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, USA
- Zoology Division, National Museum of Natural History, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Zoe A. Ong
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Dolyce H.W. Low
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Sigit Wiantoro
- Museum Zoologicum Bogoriense, Research Center for Biosystematics and Evolution, National Research and Innovation Agency, Cibinong, West Java 16911, Indonesia
| | - Ina L. Smith
- Health and Biosecurity, The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization, Black Mountain, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Nancy B. Simmons
- Department of Mammalogy, Division of Vertebrate Zoology, American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY 10024, USA
| | - Yvonne C.F. Su
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - David J. Lohman
- Biology Department, City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY 10031, USA
- Ph.D. Program in Biology, Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, USA
- Zoology Division, National Museum of Natural History, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Gavin J.D. Smith
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
- Centre for Outbreak Preparedness, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
- SingHealth Duke-NUS Global Health Institute, SingHealth Duke-NUS Academic Medical Centre, Singapore 168753, Singapore
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Ian H. Mendenhall
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
- SingHealth Duke-NUS Global Health Institute, SingHealth Duke-NUS Academic Medical Centre, Singapore 168753, Singapore
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7
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Sánchez CA, Penrose MT, Kessler MK, Becker DJ, McKeown A, Hannappel M, Boyd V, Camus MS, Padgett-Stewart T, Hunt BE, Graves AF, Peel AJ, Westcott DA, Rainwater TR, Chumchal MM, Cobb GP, Altizer S, Plowright RK, Boardman WSJ. Land use, season, and parasitism predict metal concentrations in Australian flying fox fur. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 841:156699. [PMID: 35710009 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Urban-living wildlife can be exposed to metal contaminants dispersed into the environment through industrial, residential, and agricultural applications. Metal exposure carries lethal and sublethal consequences for animals; in particular, heavy metals (e.g. arsenic, lead, mercury) can damage organs and act as carcinogens. Many bat species reside and forage in human-modified habitats and could be exposed to contaminants in air, water, and food. We quantified metal concentrations in fur samples from three flying fox species (Pteropus fruit bats) captured at eight sites in eastern Australia. For subsets of bats, we assessed ectoparasite burden, haemoparasite infection, and viral infection, and performed white blood cell differential counts. We examined relationships among metal concentrations, environmental predictors (season, land use surrounding capture site), and individual predictors (species, sex, age, body condition, parasitism, neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio). As expected, bats captured at sites with greater human impact had higher metal loads. At one site with seasonal sampling, bats had higher metal concentrations in winter than in summer, possibly owing to changes in food availability and foraging. Relationships between ectoparasites and metal concentrations were mixed, suggesting multiple causal mechanisms. There was no association between overall metal load and neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio, but mercury concentrations were positively correlated with this ratio, which is associated with stress in other vertebrate taxa. Comparison of our findings to those of previous flying fox studies revealed potentially harmful levels of several metals; in particular, endangered spectacled flying foxes (P. conspicillatus) exhibited high concentrations of cadmium and lead. Because some bats harbor pathogens transmissible to humans and animals, future research should explore interactions between metal exposure, immunity, and infection to assess consequences for bat and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia A Sánchez
- Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA; Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
| | - Michael T Penrose
- Department of Environmental Science, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
| | | | - Daniel J Becker
- Department of Biology, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, USA
| | | | | | - Victoria Boyd
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Health and Biosecurity Business Unit, The Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness (ACDP), Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Melinda S Camus
- Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Ticha Padgett-Stewart
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Brooklin E Hunt
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Amelia F Graves
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Alison J Peel
- Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Thomas R Rainwater
- Tom Yawkey Wildlife Center and Belle W. Baruch Institute of Coastal Ecology and Forest Science, Clemson University, Georgetown, SC, USA
| | | | - George P Cobb
- Department of Environmental Science, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Sonia Altizer
- Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA; Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Raina K Plowright
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Wayne S J Boardman
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, SA, Australia
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8
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Van Brussel K, Mahar JE, Ortiz-Baez AS, Carrai M, Spielman D, Boardman WSJ, Baker ML, Beatty JA, Geoghegan JL, Barrs VR, Holmes EC. Faecal virome of the Australian grey-headed flying fox from urban/suburban environments contains novel coronaviruses, retroviruses and sapoviruses. Virology 2022; 576:42-51. [PMID: 36150229 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Bats are important reservoirs for viruses of public health and veterinary concern. Virus studies in Australian bats usually target the families Paramyxoviridae, Coronaviridae and Rhabdoviridae, with little known about their overall virome composition. We used metatranscriptomic sequencing to characterise the faecal virome of grey-headed flying foxes from three colonies in urban/suburban locations from two Australian states. We identified viruses from three mammalian-infecting (Coronaviridae, Caliciviridae, Retroviridae) and one possible mammalian-infecting (Birnaviridae) family. Of particular interest were a novel bat betacoronavirus (subgenus Nobecovirus) and a novel bat sapovirus (Caliciviridae), the first identified in Australian bats, as well as a potentially exogenous retrovirus. The novel betacoronavirus was detected in two sampling locations 1375 km apart and falls in a viral lineage likely with a long association with bats. This study highlights the utility of unbiased sequencing of faecal samples for identifying novel viruses and revealing broad-scale patterns of virus ecology and evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Van Brussel
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, School of Life & Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Jackie E Mahar
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, School of Life & Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Ayda Susana Ortiz-Baez
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, School of Life & Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Maura Carrai
- Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine & Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, People's Republic of China
| | - Derek Spielman
- School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Wayne S J Boardman
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5371, Australia
| | - Michelle L Baker
- CSIRO Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, Health and Biosecurity Business Unit, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
| | - Julia A Beatty
- Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine & Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jemma L Geoghegan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9010, New Zealand; Institute of Environmental Science and Research, Wellington, 5022, New Zealand
| | - Vanessa R Barrs
- Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine & Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, People's Republic of China; Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Edward C Holmes
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, School of Life & Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
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9
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Predicted impacts of climate change and extreme temperature events on the future distribution of fruit bat species in Australia. Glob Ecol Conserv 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2022.e02181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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10
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Pulscher LA, Peel AJ, Rose K, Welbergen JA, Baker ML, Boyd V, Low‐Choy S, Edson D, Todd C, Dorrestein A, Hall J, Todd S, Broder CC, Yan L, Xu K, Peck GR, Phalen DN. Serological evidence of a pararubulavirus and a betacoronavirus in the geographically isolated Christmas Island flying-fox (Pteropus natalis). Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:e2366-e2377. [PMID: 35491954 PMCID: PMC9529767 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Due to their geographical isolation and small populations, insular bats may not be able to maintain acute immunizing viruses that rely on a large population for viral maintenance. Instead, endemic transmission may rely on viruses establishing persistent infections within hosts or inducing only short-lived neutralizing immunity. Therefore, studies on insular populations are valuable for developing broader understanding of viral maintenance in bats. The Christmas Island flying-fox (CIFF; Pteropus natalis) is endemic on Christmas Island, a remote Australian territory, and is an ideal model species to understand viral maintenance in small, geographically isolated bat populations. Serum or plasma (n = 190), oral swabs (n = 199), faeces (n = 31), urine (n = 32) and urine swabs (n = 25) were collected from 228 CIFFs. Samples were tested using multiplex serological and molecular assays, and attempts at virus isolation to determine the presence of paramyxoviruses, betacoronaviruses and Australian bat lyssavirus. Analysis of serological data provides evidence that the species is maintaining a pararubulavirus and a betacoronavirus. There was little serological evidence supporting the presence of active circulation of the other viruses assessed in the present study. No viral nucleic acid was detected and no viruses were isolated. Age-seropositivity results support the hypothesis that geographically isolated bat populations can maintain some paramyxoviruses and coronaviruses. Further studies are required to elucidate infection dynamics and characterize viruses in the CIFF. Lastly, apparent absence of some pathogens could have implications for the conservation of the CIFF if a novel disease were introduced into the population through human carriage or an invasive species. Adopting increased biosecurity protocols for ships porting on Christmas Island and for researchers and bat carers working with flying-foxes are recommended to decrease the risk of pathogen introduction and contribute to the health and conservation of the species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A. Pulscher
- Faculty of ScienceSydney School of Veterinary ScienceUniversity of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Alison J. Peel
- Centre for Planetary Health and Food SecurityGriffith UniversityNathanQueenslandAustralia
| | - Karrie Rose
- Australian Registry of Wildlife HealthTaronga Conservation Society AustraliaMosmanNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Justin A. Welbergen
- Hawkesbury Institute for the EnvironmentWestern Sydney UniversityRichmondNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Michelle L. Baker
- Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, Health and Biosecurity Business UnitCommonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research OrganizationGeelongVictoriaAustralia
| | - Victoria Boyd
- Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, Health and Biosecurity Business UnitCommonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research OrganizationGeelongVictoriaAustralia
| | - Samantha Low‐Choy
- Centre for Planetary Health and Food SecurityGriffith UniversityNathanQueenslandAustralia
- Office of the Vice ChancellorArts/Education/LawGriffith UniversityBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Dan Edson
- Department of AgricultureWater and the EnvironmentCanberraAustralian Capital TerritoryAustralia
| | - Christopher Todd
- Hawkesbury Institute for the EnvironmentWestern Sydney UniversityRichmondNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Annabel Dorrestein
- Hawkesbury Institute for the EnvironmentWestern Sydney UniversityRichmondNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Jane Hall
- Australian Registry of Wildlife HealthTaronga Conservation Society AustraliaMosmanNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Shawn Todd
- Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, Health and Biosecurity Business UnitCommonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research OrganizationGeelongVictoriaAustralia
| | | | - Lianying Yan
- Department of MicrobiologyUniformed Services UniversityBethesdaMarylandUSA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military MedicineBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Kai Xu
- Department of Veterinary BiosciencesCollege of Veterinary MedicineThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Grantley R. Peck
- Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, Health and Biosecurity Business UnitCommonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research OrganizationGeelongVictoriaAustralia
| | - David N. Phalen
- Faculty of ScienceSydney School of Veterinary ScienceUniversity of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
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11
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Annand EJ, Horsburgh BA, Xu K, Reid PA, Poole B, de Kantzow MC, Brown N, Tweedie A, Michie M, Grewar JD, Jackson AE, Singanallur NB, Plain KM, Kim K, Tachedjian M, van der Heide B, Crameri S, Williams DT, Secombe C, Laing ED, Sterling S, Yan L, Jackson L, Jones C, Plowright RK, Peel AJ, Breed AC, Diallo I, Dhand NK, Britton PN, Broder CC, Smith I, Eden JS. Novel Hendra Virus Variant Detected by Sentinel Surveillance of Horses in Australia. Emerg Infect Dis 2022; 28:693-704. [PMID: 35202527 PMCID: PMC8888208 DOI: 10.3201/eid2803.211245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We identified and isolated a novel Hendra virus (HeV) variant not detected by routine testing from a horse in Queensland, Australia, that died from acute illness with signs consistent with HeV infection. Using whole-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, we determined the variant had ≈83% nt identity with prototypic HeV. In silico and in vitro comparisons of the receptor-binding protein with prototypic HeV support that the human monoclonal antibody m102.4 used for postexposure prophylaxis and current equine vaccine will be effective against this variant. An updated quantitative PCR developed for routine surveillance resulted in subsequent case detection. Genetic sequence consistency with virus detected in grey-headed flying foxes suggests the variant circulates at least among this species. Studies are needed to determine infection kinetics, pathogenicity, reservoir-species associations, viral-host coevolution, and spillover dynamics for this virus. Surveillance and biosecurity practices should be updated to acknowledge HeV spillover risk across all regions frequented by flying foxes.
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12
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Bauer S, Zhang F, Linhardt RJ. Implications of Glycosaminoglycans on Viral Zoonotic Diseases. Diseases 2021; 9:85. [PMID: 34842642 PMCID: PMC8628766 DOI: 10.3390/diseases9040085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic diseases are infectious diseases that pass from animals to humans. These include diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites and can be transmitted through close contact or through an intermediate insect vector. Many of the world's most problematic zoonotic diseases are viral diseases originating from animal spillovers. The Spanish influenza pandemic, Ebola outbreaks in Africa, and the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic are thought to have started with humans interacting closely with infected animals. As the human population grows and encroaches on more and more natural habitats, these incidents will only increase in frequency. Because of this trend, new treatments and prevention strategies are being explored. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are complex linear polysaccharides that are ubiquitously present on the surfaces of most human and animal cells. In many infectious diseases, the interactions between GAGs and zoonotic pathogens correspond to the first contact that results in the infection of host cells. In recent years, researchers have made progress in understanding the extraordinary roles of GAGs in the pathogenesis of zoonotic diseases, suggesting potential therapeutic avenues for using GAGs in the treatment of these diseases. This review examines the role of GAGs in the progression, prevention, and treatment of different zoonotic diseases caused by viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Bauer
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA;
| | - Fuming Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA;
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
| | - Robert J. Linhardt
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA;
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
- Departments of Biological Science, Biomedical Engineering, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
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13
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Chaber AL, Amstrong KN, Wiantoro S, Xerri V, Caraguel C, Boardman WSJ, Nielsen TD. Bat E-Commerce: Insights Into the Extent and Potential Implications of This Dark Trade. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:651304. [PMID: 34179158 PMCID: PMC8224922 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.651304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Little is known about the global bat souvenir trade despite previous research efforts into bat harvest for bushmeat. We screened eBay listings of bats in Australia, Canada, Italy, Switzerland, United Kingdom and USA to assess the nature and extent of the online offers. A total of 237 listings were retrieved in between the 11th and 25th of May 2020 with a median price per item of US$38.50 (range: US$8.50–2,500.00). Items on offer were mostly taxidermy (61.2%) or skull (21.1%) specimens. Overall, 32 different species of bat were advertised, most of which (n = 28) are listed as “Least Concern” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. One species (Nycteris javanica) is classified as “Vulnerable” and one (Eidolon helvum) as “Near Threatened.” Pteropus spp. specimens were the most expensive specimens on offer and the conservations status of these species may range from “Critically Endangered” to “Data Deficient” by IUCN and the entire genus is listed in the Appendix II by the Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). However, the exact species concerned, and their respective conservation status, could not be confirmed based on the listings' photos. The sourcing of bat was restricted to mostly South-East Asian countries (a third of items sourced from Indonesia) and to two African countries. Our survey revealed that the online offer of bat products is diverse, abundant, and facilitated by worldwide sellers although most offered bats species are from South-East Asia. With a few exceptions, the species on offer were of little present conservation concern, however, many unknowns remain on the potential animal welfare, biosecurity, legal implications, and most importantly public health risks associated with this dark trade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Lise Chaber
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Kyle N Amstrong
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,South Australian Museum, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Sigit Wiantoro
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Museum Zoologicum Bogoriense, Research Center for Biology, Indonesian Institute of Sciences, Cibinong, Indonesia
| | - Vanessa Xerri
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Charles Caraguel
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Wayne S J Boardman
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Torben D Nielsen
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
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14
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Tsang SM, Low DHW, Wiantoro S, Smith I, Jayakumar J, Simmons NB, Vijaykrishna D, Lohman DJ, Mendenhall IH. Detection of Tioman Virus in Pteropus vampyrus Near Flores, Indonesia. Viruses 2021; 13:v13040563. [PMID: 33810446 PMCID: PMC8067168 DOI: 10.3390/v13040563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Diverse paramyxoviruses have coevolved with their bat hosts, including fruit bats such as flying foxes (Chiroptera: Pteropodidae). Several of these viruses are zoonotic, but the diversity and distribution of Paramyxoviridae are poorly understood. We screened pooled feces samples from three Pteropus vampyrus colonies and assayed tissues, rectal swabs, and oral swabs from 95 individuals of 23 pteropodid species sampled at 17 sites across the Indonesian archipelago with a conventional paramyxovirus PCR; all tested negative. Samples from 43 individuals were screened with next generation sequencing (NGS), and a single Pteropus vampyrus collected near Flores had Tioman virus sequencing reads. Tioman virus is a bat-borne virus in the genus Pararubulavirus with prior evidence of spillover to humans. This work expands the known range of Tioman virus, and it is likely that this isolated colony likely has sustained intergenerational transmission over a long period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan M. Tsang
- Division of Vertebrate Zoology, American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY 10024, USA; (S.M.T.); (N.B.S.)
- Zoology Division, National Museum of Natural History, Manila 1000, Philippines;
- Ph.D. Program in Biology, Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, USA
- Biology Department, City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY 10031, USA
| | - Dolyce H. W. Low
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (D.H.W.L.); (J.J.)
- Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore
| | - Sigit Wiantoro
- Museum Zoologicum Bogoriense, Research Center for Biology, Indonesian Institute of Sciences, Cibinong, West Java 16911, Indonesia;
| | - Ina Smith
- Health and Biosecurity, The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization, Black Mountain, ACT 2601, Australia;
| | - Jayanthi Jayakumar
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (D.H.W.L.); (J.J.)
| | - Nancy B. Simmons
- Division of Vertebrate Zoology, American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY 10024, USA; (S.M.T.); (N.B.S.)
| | - Dhanasekaran Vijaykrishna
- School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China;
| | - David J. Lohman
- Zoology Division, National Museum of Natural History, Manila 1000, Philippines;
- Ph.D. Program in Biology, Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, USA
- Biology Department, City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY 10031, USA
| | - Ian H. Mendenhall
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (D.H.W.L.); (J.J.)
- SingHealth Duke-NUS Global Health Institute, SingHealth Duke-NUS Academic Medical Centre, Singapore 168753, Singapore
- Correspondence:
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15
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Boardman WSJ, Roshier D, Reardon T, Burbidge K, McKeown A, Westcott DA, Caraguel CGB, Prowse TAA. Spring foraging movements of an urban population of grey-headed flying foxes ( Pteropus poliocephalus). JOURNAL OF URBAN ECOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/jue/juaa034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Flying foxes provide ecologically and economically important ecosystem services but extensive clearing and modification of habitat and drought combined with the planting of commercial and non-commercial trees across various landscapes, has meant flying foxes in Australia are increasingly seeking foraging resources in new areas. In 2011, grey-headed flying foxes formed a camp in Adelaide, South Australia, outside their previously recorded range. We used global positioning system telemetry to study the movements and foraging behaviour of this species in Adelaide in spring (September to November) 2015. High-frequency location data were used to determine the foraging range and the most frequently visited foraging sites used by each bat which were ground-truthed to identify forage plants. A total of 7239 valid locations were collected over 170 nights from four collars. Despite being a highly mobile species, the mean core foraging range estimate was only 7.30 km2 (range 3.3–11.2 km2). Maximum foraging distance from the camp in the Botanic Park was 9.5 km but most foraging occurred within a 4-km radius. The most common foraging sites occurred within the residential area of Adelaide and included introduced forage plant species, Lemon-scented gum (Corymbia citriodora) and Port Jackson fig (Ficus rubiginosa). Other observed movement activities included dipping behaviour on inland and marine waters and travel across flight paths around Adelaide airport. Our findings suggest that urban habitats in Adelaide provide sufficient foraging resources for grey-headed flying foxes to use these areas exclusively, at least in spring. This creates substantial opportunities for bats to interact with humans and their infrastructure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne S J Boardman
- Department of Pathobiology, Infectious Disease and Public Health, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
| | - David Roshier
- Australian Wildlife Conservancy, Subiaco, WA 6008, Australia
| | - Terry Reardon
- South Australia Museum, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Kathryn Burbidge
- Department of Pathobiology, Infectious Disease and Public Health, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
| | - Adam McKeown
- CSIRO Land and Water, Atherton, QLD 4883, Australia
| | | | - Charles G B Caraguel
- Department of Pathobiology, Infectious Disease and Public Health, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
| | - Thomas A A Prowse
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
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16
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Gilkerson JR. Hendra virus: to vaccinate or not to vaccinate? What is the alternative? Aust Vet J 2020; 98:575-577. [PMID: 33258486 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J R Gilkerson
- Centre for Equine Infectious Disease, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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17
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Boardman WSJ, Baker ML, Boyd V, Crameri G, Peck GR, Reardon T, Smith IG, Caraguel CGB, Prowse TAA. Serological evidence of exposure to a coronavirus antigenically related to severe acute respiratory syndrome virus (SARS-CoV-1) in the Grey-headed flying fox (Pteropus poliocephalus). Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 68:2628-2632. [PMID: 33142031 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Many infectious pathogens can be transmitted by highly mobile species, like bats that can act as reservoir hosts for viruses such as henipaviruses, lyssaviruses and coronaviruses. In this study, we investigated the seroepidemiology of protein antigens to Severe acute respiratory syndrome virus (SARS-CoV-1) and Middle eastern respiratory syndrome virus (MERS-CoV) in Grey-headed flying foxes (Pteropus poliocephalus) in Adelaide, Australia sampled between September 2015 and February 2018. A total of 301 serum samples were collected and evaluated using a multiplex Luminex binding assay, and median fluorescence intensity thresholds were determined using finite-mixture modelling. We found evidence of antibodies reactive to SARS-CoV-1 or a related antigen with 42.5% (CI: 34.3%-51.2%) seroprevalence but insufficient evidence of reactivity to MERS-CoV antigen. This study provides evidence that the Grey-headed flying foxes sampled in Adelaide have been exposed to a SARS-like coronavirus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michelle L Baker
- Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, Geelong, Vic, Australia
| | - Victoria Boyd
- Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, Geelong, Vic, Australia
| | - Gary Crameri
- Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, Geelong, Vic, Australia
| | - Grantley R Peck
- Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, Geelong, Vic, Australia
| | | | - Ian G Smith
- The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Zoos South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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