Metagenomic analysis reveals novel dietary-related viruses in the gut virome of marmosets hybrids (Callithrix jacchus x Callithrix penicillata), Brazil

Viral metagenomics has contributed enormously to the characterization of a wide range of viruses infecting animals of all phyla in the last decades. Among Neotropical primates, especially those introduced, knowledge about viral diversity remains poorly studied. Therefore, using metagenomics based on virus enrichment, we explored the viral microbiota present in the feces of introduced common marmosets (Callithrix sp.) in three locations from the Silva Jardim region in the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Fecal samples were collected from nine marmosets, pooled into three sample pools, and sequenced on Illumina MiSeq platform. Sequence reads were analyzed using a viral metagenomic analysis pipeline and two novel insect viruses belonging to the Parvoviridae and Baculoviridae families were identified. The complete genome of a densovirus (Parvoviridae family) of 5,309 nucleotides (nt) was obtained. The NS1 and VP1 proteins share lower than 32% sequence identity with the corresponding proteins of known members of the subfamily Densovirinae. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that this virus represents a new genus, provisionally named Afoambidensovirus due to its discovery in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. The novel species received the name Afoambidensovirus incertum 1. The complete circular genome of a baculovirus of 107,191 nt was also obtained, showing 60.8% sequence identity with the most closely related member of the Baculoviridae family. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that this virus represents a new species in the Betabaculovirus genus, provisionally named Betabaculovirus incertum 1. In addition, sequences from several families of arthropods in the three pools evaluated were characterized (contigs ranging from 244 to 6,750 nt), corroborating the presence of possible insect hosts with which these new viruses may be associated. Our study expands the knowledge about two viral families known to infect insects, an important component of the marmosets' diet. This identification in hosts' feces samples demonstrates one of the many uses of this type of data and could serve as a basis for future research characterizing viruses in wildlife using noninvasive samples.

Spatial distribution, ecological indices and interactions of arthropods on Sapindus saponaria (Sapindaceae) plants

Sapindus saponaria L. (Sapindaceae) is a pioneer species used in programs to recover degraded areas. The trees also assist in the pest control of some insects due to the composition of saponins on their leaves. In addition, these chemical components are important to pharmaceutical product production. The objective was to evaluate the impact of spatial distribution, indices and ecological relationship of arthropods on S. saponaria leaves to preserve the balance of biodiversity. Aggregated distribution of arthropods was observed; the numbers of phytophagous arthropods were higher on the adaxial leaf face than on the abaxial part. Only Aleyrodidae (Hemiptera) had a higher presence on the abaxial leaf face of S. saponaria saplings. Abundance, diversity, and species richness of natural enemies correlated positively with phytophagous and pollinators insects. On the other hand, the number of Lyriomyza sp. mines correlated negatively with Pseudomyrmex termitarius (Smith) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). All this information can assist and guide integrated pest management programs.

Phytophagous insects and natural enemies on Sapindus saponaria L. (Sapindales: Sapindaceae) plants fertilized with or without dehydrated sewage sludge

Management programs and efficient techniques are necessary to recover degraded ecosystems. The sewage sludge is rich in nitrogen (N) and with the potential to fertilize Sapindus saponaria L. (Sapinales: Sapindaceae), used in the recovery of degraded areas; this can affect the insect fauna. The study's objective was to evaluate, for 24 months, the abundance of chewing insects, dipterans, pollinators, and predators on S. saponaria plants fertilized with or without dehydrated sewage sludge in a degraded area. The experimental design was completely randomized (with the same characteristics) with two treatments (with or without dehydrated sewage sludge) and 24 replicates, each with one plant. The abundance of Anastrepha sp. (Tephritidae), Cerotoma sp. (Chrysomelidae), Curculionidae, Musca domestica L. (Muscidae), Mantis religiosa L. (Mantodea: Mantidae), Oxyopidae, Salticidae, Tettigoniidae (Orthoptera), and Teudis sp. (Anyphaenidae) was higher on fertilized plants. The abundances of Teudis sp. and Tmarus sp. (Thomisidae) and M. religiosa and Teudis sp. were positively correlated with chewing insects and Diptera, respectively. The population increase of insects and spiders on S. saponaria plants fertilized with dehydrated sewage sludge (bigger crowns) has shown to be suitable for recovering degraded areas with a higher number of niches and better food quality, improving the ecological indices of the area.

Discovery of two novel Torque Teno viruses in Callithrix penicillata provides insights on Anelloviridae diversification dynamics

The development of high-throughput sequencing (HTS) technologies and metagenomics protocols deeply impacted the discovery of viral diversity. Moreover, the characterization of novel viruses in the Neotropical primates (NP) is central for the comprehension of viral evolution dynamics in those hosts, due to their evolutionary proximity to Old World primates, including humans. In the present work, novel anelloviruses were detected and characterized through HTS protocols in the NP Callithrix penicillata, the common black-tufted marmoset. De novo assembly of generated sequences was carried out, and a total of 15 contigs were identified with complete Anelloviridae ORF1 gene, two of them including a flanking GC-rich region, confirming the presence of two whole novel genomes of ~3 kb. The identified viruses were monophyletic within the Epsilontorquevirus genus, a lineage harboring previously reported anelloviruses infecting hosts from the Cebidae family. The genetic divergence found in the new viruses characterized two novel species, named Epsilontorquevirus callithrichensis I and II. The phylogenetic pattern inferred for the Epsilontorquevirus genus was consistent with the topology of their host species tree, echoing a virus-host diversification model observed in other viral groups. This study expands the host span of Anelloviridae and provides insights into their diversification dynamics, highlighting the importance of sampling animal viral genomes to obtain a clearer depiction of their long-term evolutionary processes.

Insects and spiders on Acacia mangium (Fabaceae) saplings as bioindicators for the recovery of tropical degraded areas

Acacia mangium is a pioneer species with fast growth and frequently used in the recovery of degraded areas. The objectives were to evaluate insects and spiders, their ecological indices and interactions on A. mangium saplings in a tropical degraded area in recovering process. The experimental design was completely randomized with 24 replications, with treatments represented by the first and second years after A. mangium seedling planted. Numbers of leaves/branch, branches/sapling, and ground cover by A. mangium saplings, Hemiptera: Phenacoccus sp. and Pachycoris torridus; Hymenoptera: Tetragonisca angustula and Trigona spinipes, Brachymyrmex sp., Camponotus sp. and Cephalotes sp.; Blattodea: Nasutitermes sp. and Neuroptera: Chrysoperla sp.; abundance, species richness of pollinating insects, tending ants, and the abundance of Sternorrhyncha predators were greatest in the second year after planting. Numbers of Hemiptera: Aethalium reticulatum, Hymenoptera: Camponotus sp., Cephalotes sp., Polybia sp., T. angustula, T. spinipes, tending ants, pollinating insects, Sternorrhyncha predators and species richness of tending ants were highest on A. mangium saplings with greatest numbers of leaves or branches. The increase in the population of arthropods with ground cover by A. mangium saplings age increase indicates the positive impact by this plant on the recovery process of degraded areas.

Ecotoxicological effects of commercial herbicides on the reproductive system of aquatic arthropod Limnocoris submontandoni (Hemiptera: Naucoridae)

Worldwide, conventional agriculture makes extensive use of pesticides. Although the effects of herbicides are relatively well known in terms of environmental impacts on non-target organisms, there is very little scientific evidence regarding the impacts of herbicide residues on aquatic arthropods from tropical conservation areas. This study evaluates for the first time the toxicity of the herbicides ametryn, atrazine, and clomazone on the aquatic insect Limnocoris submontandoni (Hemiptera: Naucoridae). The lethal concentration (LC50) of herbicides was evaluated for these insects, as well as the effect of the herbicides on the insects' tissues and testicles. The estimated LC50 was 1012.41, 192.42, and 46.09 mg/L for clomazone, atrazine, and ametryn, respectively. Spermatocyte and spermatid changes were observed under the effect of atrazine, and effects on spermatogenesis were observed for some concentrations of clomazone, with apparent recovery after a short time. Our results provide useful information on the effects of herbicide residues in aquatic systems. This information can help minimize the risk of long-term reproductive effects in non-target species that have been previously overlooked in ecotoxicology studies.

Arthropod fauna on the abaxial and adaxial surfaces of Acacia mangium (Fabaceae) leaves

Acacia mangium (Willd., 1806) (Fabales: Fabaceae) is a fast growing, rustic, pioneer species, with potential to fix nitrogen, and for programs to recover degraded areas. The objective was to evaluate the distribution and the functional diversity of interactions and the K-dominance of arthropod groups on A. mangium saplings. The number of individuals of eleven species of phytophagous insects, three bee species, and fourteen natural enemy species were highest on the adaxial leaf surface of this plant. Abundance, diversity and species richness of phytophagous insects and natural enemies, and abundance and species richness of pollinators were highest on the adaxial A. mangium leaf surface. The distribution of five species of sap-sucking hemipterans and six of protocooperating ants (Hymenoptera), with positive interaction between these groups, and three bee species (Hymenoptera) were aggregated on leaves of A. mangium saplings. Aethalion reticulatum (L.) (Hemiptera: Aethalionidae) and Bemisia sp. (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae); Brachymyrmex sp. and Camponotus sp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae); and Trigona spinipes Fabricius (Hymenoptera: Apidae) were the most dominant phytophagous insects, natural enemies, and pollinators, respectively, on A. mangium leaves. Knowledge of preferred leaf surfaces could help integrated pest management programs.

Chewing insects, pollinators, and predators on Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. ex Beth (Fabales: Fabaceae) plants fertilized with dehydrated sewage sludge

Fertilization with dehydrated sewage sludge can speed up the recovery process of degraded areas due to nutrients concentration, favoring the development of pioneer plants such as Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. ex Beth (Fabales: Fabaceae) and the emergence of insects. This study aimed the evaluation of chewing, pollinating insects, predators, their ecological indices and relationships on A. auriculiformis plants fertilized with dehydrated sewage sludge. The experimental design was completely randomized with two treatments (with and without dehydrated sewage sludge) and 24 repetitions. The prevalence of chewing insects Parasyphraea sp. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), Nasutitermes sp. (Blattodea: Termitidae), and Tropidacris collaris (Stoll, 1813) (Orthoptera: Romaleidae), defoliation, and ecological indices of abundance of Coleoptera and Orthoptera were observed on fertilized A. auriculiformis. Acacia auriculiformis plants, with a superior number of branches/tree, revealed greater abundance of Coleoptera and Orthoptera, species richness of pollinating insects, defoliation, numbers of Parasyphraea sp. and T. collaris. The ones with larger leaves/branches displayed greater abundance of species richness of Coleoptera and Diabrotica speciosa (Germar, 1824) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). Therefore, the use of A. auriculiformis plants, fertilized with dehydrated sewage sludge, is promising in the recovery of degraded areas due to the ecological indices increase of chewing and pollinators insects and spiders in the analyzed area.

Distribution pattern of arthropods on the leaf surfaces of Acacia auriculiformis saplings

Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. Ex Benth. (Fabaceae), a non-native pioneer species in Brazil with fast growth and rusticity, is used in restoration programs. Our goal was to assess during a 24-month survey the pattern of arthropods (phytophagous insects, bees, spiders, and predator insects) on the leaf surfaces of A. auriculiformis saplings. Fourteen species of phytophagous, two of bees and eleven of predators were most abundant on the adaxial surface. The values of the ecological indexes (abundance, diversity, and species richness) and the rarefaction, and k-dominance curves of phytophagous, bees and arthropod predators were highest on the adaxial leaf surface of A. auriculiformis. The k-dominance and abundance of Aleyrodidae (Hemiptera) (both leaf surfaces), the native stingless bee Tetragonisca angustula Latreille (Hymenoptera: Apidae) (both leaf surfaces) and the ant Brachymyrmex sp. (adaxial surface) and Pheidole sp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) (abaxial surface) were the highest between the taxonomic groups of phytophagous, bees, and predators, respectively on A. auriculiformis saplings. The ecological indexes and rarefaction, abundance, and k-dominance curves of phytophagous insects, bees, and predators were highest on the adaxial leaf surface. The preference of phytophagous insects for the adaxial leaf surface is probably due to the lower effort required to move on this surface. Understanding the arthropod preferences between leaf surfaces may help to develop sampling and pest management plans for the most abundant phytophagous insects on A. auriculiformis saplings. Also, knowledge on the preference pattern of bees and predators may be used to favour their conservation.

Distribution of galling insects and their parasitoids on Caryocar brasiliense tree crowns

Caryocar brasiliense Camb. (Malpighiales: Caryocaraceae) is widely distributed in the Brazilian savanna and its fruits are used by humans for food, production of cosmetics, lubricants, and in the pharmaceutical industry. This plant is damaged by galling insects. Number of these galling insects and their parasitoids was recorded, in the field (galls) and in the laboratory (adults emerged from the galls), from three C. brasiliense crown heights, during three years. Numbers of adults of Eurytoma sp. (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae), galling insect (younger attack) and Sycophila sp. (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) (a parasitoid of Eurytoma sp.), were greater on the apical parts of C. brasiliense tree crowns. Numbers and groups of Eurytoma sp. globoid galls (older attack) were higher in the median and basal crown parts. The numbers of Eurytoma sp. galls were higher on apical part of C. brasiliense tree crown and also of their parasitoids.

Impact of TLR7 and TLR9 polymorphisms on susceptibility to placental infections and pregnancy complications

This study evaluated the impact of the TLR7 Gln11Leu (rs179008) and TLR9 -1237 T/C (rs5743836) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on susceptibility to placental infections and pregnancy complications in 455 Brazilian women. Demographic, socioeconomic, gynecological, and clinical characteristics of the women were collected. Placental tissues were sampled from pregnant women and human and viral DNA was extracted. Human alphaherpesvirus 1 (Herpes simplex virus type 1, HSV-1), Human alphaherpesvirus 2 (Herpes simplex virus type 2, HSV-2) and Human betaherpesvirus 5 (Human cytomegalovirus, HCMV) were detected by nested PCR. TLR9 and TLR7 SNPs were genotyped by PCR amplification of bi-directional specific alleles (Bi-PASA) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP), respectively. Infections at the time of birth were detected in 45.71 % of women. The presence of the TT genotype (recessive model) of the TLR7 SNP was associated with increased susceptibility to HSV-1 infection (O.R. = 2.23, p = 0.05). The presence of the C allele of the TLR9 SNP, in heterozygosis or homozygosis (dominant model), decreased the infection risk by HCMV (O.R. = 0.31, p-mod<0.05). The TT genotype (recessive model) of the TLR7 SNP was significantly associated (p < 0.05) with increased occurrence of pre-treated hypertension. The codominant model of the TLR9 SNP was significantly associated (p < 0.05) with reduced risk of hospitalization during pregnancy. In combination, the AA/CT (TLR7-TLR9) genotypes significantly decreased the risk of placental infection by HSV-1 and/or HSV-2 (O.R. = 0.47, p = 0.02), the susceptibility to all infectious agents considered in combination (O.R. = 0.4, p = 0.00), and the need of hospitalization (O.R. = 0.48, p = 0.02). In conclusion, TLR7 and TLR9 SNPs are potential modulating factors for the risk of placental infections and pregnancy complications.

Yersinia massiliensis (Enterobacteriales: Enterobacteriaceae) in the host Anaphes nitens (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae): first report of association with insects

Endosymbiont bacteria can affect biological parameters and reduce the effectiveness of natural enemies in controlling the target insect. The objective of this work was to identify endosymbiont bacteria in Anaphes nitens (Girault, 1928) (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae), the main natural enemy used to manage Gonipterus platensis (Marelli, 1926) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Genomic DNA from six A. nitens populations was extracted and polymerase chain reactions (PCR) were performed with the primers to detect endosymbiont bacteria in this insect. The PCR products were amplified, sequenced, and compared with sequences deposited in the GenBank for the bacteria identification. All A. nitens populations had the bacterium Yersinia massiliensis (Enterobacteriales: Enterobacteriaceae). This bacterium was originally described as free-living, and it is associated with and composes part of the A. nitens microbiota. This is the first report of Y. massiliensis in an insect host.

Seasonal mite population distribution on Caryocar brasiliense trees in the Cerrado domain

Caryocar brasiliense Camb. (Malpighiales: Caryocaraceae) trees have a wide distribution in the Cerrado, and it is protected by federal laws. The need to monitor and understand pest damage to crops and forests is a major motivation for the study of population distribution. The mites (Acari) population distributions on C. brasiliense are unknown. We studied seasonal mite population distribution and their ecological indices on C. brasiliense trees in Cerrado areas during three years. Greatest number of Agistemus sp. (Stigmaeidae), Histiostoma sp. (Histiostomidae), Proctolaelaps sp. (Ascidae), and diversity and species richness on leaves of C. brasiliense occurred in the autumn; Tetranychus sp.1 (Tetranychidae) on leaves in the autumn and winter; Histiostoma sp., and Proctolaelaps sp. in fruits in the summer. No significant effect of season was observed in the abundance of Eutetranychus sp., Tetranychus sp.2 (Tetranychidae) and Acaridae. The populations of Acaridae, Eutetranychus sp., Proctolaelaps sp. and Tetranychus sp.1 negatively correlated with temperature. Proctolaelaps sp. and Tetranychus sp.1 correlated negatively with rainfall and Eutetranychus sp. and Proctolaelaps sp. positively with sunlight. The period with low rainfall and relative humidity increases the phytophagous mites and their predators, especially Agistemus sp.. The Tetranychus sp. and Histiostoma sp. species may become pests in C. brasiliense in the Cerrado domain.

Behavior and development of Tetranychus ludeni Zacher, 1913 (Acari: Tetranychidae) and physiological stress in genetically modified cotton expressing Cry1F and Cry1Ac proteins

Genetically modified plants are one of the tactics used in integrated pest management - IPM. There is great concern about the impact of these plants on non-target organisms. On the other hand, there is little information in the literature on the effects of transgenics (Bacillus thuringiensis) Bt on populations of phytophagous mites, and the physiological responses that this attack promotes on plants. The objective of this work was to evaluate the biology of the T. ludeni mite in Bt cotton, expressing the Cry1F and Cry1Ac proteins. To evaluate the behavior of food and oviposition preference of the T. ludeni with Bt cotton and isohybrid. Verify if the physiological stress caused by T. ludeni's attack is differentiated in Bt cotton. The mites were reared in Bt cotton and isohybrid, in a total of 40 replicates in the completely randomized design and the biological cycle was evaluated. The food preference and oviposition analysis were done with 10 replicates, with choice. The physiological stress was evaluated through chlorophyll fluorescence, under greenhouse conditions. The data of the T. ludeni biology were analyzed by Student's t-test, for food and oviposition preference the chi-square test was performed. Regression models were fitted for the fluorescence parameters. The model identity test was used to evaluate the differences between Bt and isohybrid treatments. Cry1F and Cry1Ac proteins have not affected the biology of T. ludeni. The photosynthetic parameters in Bt cotton plants were less influenced by T. ludeni infestation.

A novel Betacoronavirus characterised in collared peccaries from the Rio de Janeiro Zoo (Brazil) killed by unknown disease

In an enclosure with nine collared peccaries (Pecari tajacu) from the Rio de Janeiro city Zoo, Brazil, one specimen was found dead and two others developed prostration, apathy and dehydration, resulting on its death. Necropsy of two animals pointed to pulmonary and renal damage. Histological examination revealed vasculitis in spleen from both P. tajacu, suggesting a systemic viral infection. Lungs from one specimen showed fibrinoid vasculitis, alveolar damage with hyaline membrane, and interstitial lymphocytes infiltration. Virome analysis in anal wash samples from the latter two animals revealed a new type of Betacoronavirus, lineage A, provisionally named Ptajacu-CoV.

Biological control in the germination of seeds from two species native of the Cerrado region

Microorganisms have been efficiently used for the biological control of phytopathogens through the production of antimicrobial substances. However, the objectives of this work were: to study the germination of Butia purpurascens Glassman and Butia archeri Glassman seeds in different substrates, to select and identify the endophytic and rhizospheric bacterial isolates of B. purpurascens and B. archeri, and to perform antibiosis tests based on the isolated microorganisms of these tree species. No difference was found between the cultivation substrates for the percentages of germination, hard seeds, and fungal contamination in the B. purpurascens seeds. The Bacillus subtilis isolated showed the best capacity for suppressing the growth of the two deteriorative fungi tested in B. purpurascens seeds. No difference was found for inhibition of the growth of Aspergillus niger fungus (deteriorative fungus of B. archeri seeds) between the microorganisms with Bacillus sp. and Brevibacillus brevis compared to the control. In the microbiolization of B. purpurascens and B. archeri seeds performed with microbiological solutions produced from the endophytic and rhizospheric strains of Bacillus sp., no differences were observed in the percentages of germination and contamination by fungi. For B. archeri seeds, there was contamination by fungi and bacteria after one day of cultivation, primarily in the regions with lesions caused by the extraction and scarification process.

High Incidence of Herpes Simplex Virus-1 in Cord Blood and Placenta Infection of Women in Southern Brazil

OBJECTIVE

 Estimate the prevalence of human herpesvirus type 1 HSV-1 DNA in placental samples, its incidence in umbilical cord blood of newborns and the associated risk factors.

METHODS

 Placental biopsies and umbilical cord blood were analyzed, totaling 480 samples, from asymptomatic parturients and their newborns at a University Hospital. Nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and gene sequencing were used to identify the virus; odds ratio (OR) and relative risk (RR) were performed to compare risk factors associated with this condition.

RESULTS

 The prevalence of HSV-1 DNA in placental samples was 37.5%, and the incidence in cord blood was 27.5%. Hematogenous transplacental route was identified in 61.4% from HSV-1⁺ samples of umbilical cord blood paired with the placental tissue. No evidence of the virus was observed in the remaining 38.6% of placental tissues, suggesting an ascendant infection from the genital tract, without replication in the placental tissue, resulting in intra-amniotic infection and vertical transmission, seen by the virus in the cord blood. The lack of condom use increased the risk of finding HSV-1 in the placenta and umbilical cord blood.

CONCLUSION

 The occurrence of HSV-1 DNA in the placenta and in cord blood found suggests vertical transmission from asymptomatic pregnant women to the fetus.

Trichospilus diatraeae (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae): development and reproduction in Lepidoptera palm oil pests

Brazil is a leading palm oil producer, but the defoliating caterpillars Opsiphanes invirae Hübner Brassolis sophorae L. (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) can reduce the productivity of this crop. The aim of this study was to evaluate the development and reproduction of the parasitoid Trichospilus diatraeae Cherian & Margabandhu (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) in pupae of these oil palm defoliators. Ten O. invirae or B. sophorae pupae with up to two days old were exposed each to 30 T. diatraeae females for 48 hours. Parasitism and emergence of the progeny of T. diatraeae were similar in pupae of both Lepidoptera defoliators. The life cycle of this parasitoid was shorter in O. invirae (21.50 ± 0.42 days) pupae than with those of B. sophorae (27.60 ± 1.80 days). The number of the progeny (669.00 ± 89.62) and dead immature (217.13 ± 58.18) of T. diatraeae were higher in B. sophorae pupae than in those of O. invirae with 447.83 ± 51.52 and 13.50 ± 5.23, respectively. The sex ratio and female and male longevity of T. diatraeae emerged from these hosts were similar. The reproductive traits, especially the number of individuals (offspring) of T. diatraeae were better with B. sophorae pupae than with those of O. invirae.

Hepatitis C Virus-Infected Responders and Relapsers to Treatment Show Similar Genetic Profiles of IL28B and IL10 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms

Genotype 1 of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the most prevalent worldwide. Pegylated-interferon and ribavirin therapy is still used in the developing world but has less efficiency in this genotype. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs12979860 and rs8099917 (IL28B) and rs1800896, rs1800871, and rs1800872 (IL10) are related to treatment outcome, but previous studies clustered nonresponse and relapse patients. The aim of this study is to analyze the frequency of those SNPs in HCV genotype 1 for response, nonresponse, or relapse. Patients were classified according to treatment outcome. Genomic DNA was extracted by blood samples and SNPs were defined by PCR and sequencing. Data analysis was performed with R project. The frequency of rs12979860 CC was similar among responders (0.48) and relapsers (0.46) and lower among nonresponders (0.18). The same trend was observed for rs8099917 TT. rs12979860 CC showed a protective effect for relapsers compared to nonresponders (OR = 0.25) as it occurs with responders (OR = 0.17). Haplotypes 12979860/C rs8099917/T were associated with protection against the nonresponder phenotype compared to responders (OR = 0.27) or relapsers (OR = 0.37). Frequency of rs12979860 and rs8099917 is different between relapsers and nonresponders, but similar between relapsers and responders.

Herpes simplex virus type 2 IgG antibodies in sera of umbilical cord as a proxy for placental infection in asymptomatic pregnant women

PROBLEM

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection is one of the most prevalent diseases worldwide and is mainly sexually transmitted. When infecting pregnant women, HSV-2 is able to infect the placenta, can reach the fetus, and may affect the fetal development. We sought to determine the prevalence of HSV-2 infection and reactivation in asymptomatic pregnant women, the correlation between IgG in the maternal circulation and cord blood, and the correlation between circulating IgG, placental, and newborn infection (blood cord).

METHOD OF STUDY

Serum samples and placental tissues from pregnant women and umbilical cord blood samples from their newborns were collected. Anti-HSV-2 antibodies were identified by ELISA, and HSV-2 DNA was detected by nested PCR.

RESULTS

The seropositivity of IgG in pregnant women was 29.7% and IgM was detected in 1 woman (0.5%). In the umbilical cord of newborns, 33.1% were IgG-positive and IgM was detected in 2 samples (1.5%). A positive correlation between HSV-2 IgG titers in serum from pregnant women and cord blood samples was found (r = .36, P = .001). A difference between the positive and negative placental groups (maternal side) was found in titers of IgG in sera of umbilical cord, which were significantly higher in the positive placental group (P = .004).

CONCLUSION

We describe for the first time that newborns from mothers with HSV-2 placental infection have higher IgG titers in sera of umbilical cord, suggesting IgGs antibodies can be indicative of placental viral infection in asymptomatic women.

NS3 protease polymorphisms and genetic barrier to drug resistance of distinct hepatitis C virus genotypes from worldwide treatment-naïve subjects

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS3 protease inhibitors have been primarily designed against genotype 1, the one with the lowest response to dual therapy. However, less evidence of their efficacy on non-1 genotypes is available, and any such information is mostly concentrated on genotypes 2-4. This study evaluated HCV protease resistance profiles in the major six HCV genotypes and identified genetic barrier (GB) profiles to each available protease inhibitor across HCV strains from different locations worldwide. We obtained 15 099 HCV sequences from treatment-naïve subjects retrieved at the Los Alamos HCV Sequence Database. The wild-type codons of different HCV genotypes were used to analyse the smallest number of nucleotide substitution steps required for changing that codon to the closest one associated with drug resistance. The 36L and 175L RAVs were found as genetic signatures of genotypes 2-5, while the 80K RAV was found in all genotype 5 sequences. Genotypes 4 and 6 showed a higher GB to RAV mutations conferring resistance to telaprevir, while genotypes 2-5 presented baseline resistance to that drug, carrying the 36L mutation. Genotype 4 had a higher GB to simeprevir resistance, requiring three substitutions to acquire the 155K mutation. Subtype 1b showed a higher GB than subtype 1a to resistance for most PIs, with RAVs at codons 36 and 155. Geographic disparities were also found in frequencies of certain RAVs in genotypes 2 and 3. Under a scenario of unprecedented evolution of anti-HCV direct-acting agents, the genetic composition of the circulating HCV sequences should be evaluated worldwide to choose the most appropriate/feasible therapeutic schemes with the highest genetic barriers to resistance.

Functional Role of Bacteria from Invasive Phragmites australis in Promotion of Host Growth

We hypothesize that bacterial endophytes may enhance the competitiveness and invasiveness of Phragmites australis. To evaluate this hypothesis, endophytic bacteria were isolated from P. australis. The majority of the shoot meristem isolates represent species from phyla Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria. We chose one species from each phylum to characterize further and to conduct growth promotion experiments in Phragmites. Bacteria tested include Bacillus amyloliquefaciens A9a, Achromobacter spanius B1, and Microbacterium oxydans B2. Isolates were characterized for known growth promotional traits, including indole acetic acid (IAA) production, secretion of hydrolytic enzymes, phosphate solubilization, and antibiosis activity. Potentially defensive antimicrobial lipopeptides were assayed for through application of co-culturing experiments and mass spectrometer analysis. B. amyloliquefaciens A9a and M. oxydans B2 produced IAA. B. amyloliquefaciens A9a secreted antifungal lipopeptides. Capability to promote growth of P. australis under low nitrogen conditions was evaluated in greenhouse experiments. All three isolates were found to increase the growth of P. australis under low soil nitrogen conditions and showed increased absorption of isotopic nitrogen into plants. This suggests that the Phragmites microbes we evaluated most likely promote growth of Phragmites by enhanced scavenging of nitrogenous compounds from the rhizosphere and transfer to host roots. Collectively, our results support the hypothesis that endophytic bacteria play a role in enhancing growth of P. australis in natural populations. Gaining a better understanding of the precise contributions and mechanisms of endophytes in enabling P. australis to develop high densities rapidly could lead to new symbiosis-based strategies for management and control of the host.

(-)-α-Bisabolol inhibits preferentially electromechanical coupling on rat isolated arteries

Previous findings enable us to hypothesize that (-)-α-bisabolol acts as inhibitor of voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels in smooth muscle. The current study was aimed at consolidating such hypothesis through the recording of isometric tension, measurement of intracellular Ca(2+) as well as discovery of channel target using in silico analysis. In rat aortic rings, (-)-α-bisabolol (1-1000 µM) relaxed KCl- and phenylephrine-elicited contractions, but the IC50 differed significantly (22.8 [17.6-27.7] and 200.7 [120.4-334.6] µM, respectively). The relaxation of phenylephrine contractions remained unaffected by l-NAME, indomethacin, 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one, tetraethylammonium, glibenclamide or KT-5720. Under Ca(2+)-free conditions, (-)-α-bisabolol did not alter the contractions evoked by phenylephrine or caffeine whereas it reduced those evoked by CaCl2 in KCl-, but not in PHE-stimulated preparations. Furthermore, it did not significantly alter the contractions evoked by phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate or induced by the extracellular Ca(2+) restoration in cyclopiazonic acid-treated preparations. In mesenteric rings loaded with Fluo-4 AM, (-)-α-bisabolol blunted the tension and the cytosolic levels of Ca(2+) in response to K(+) but not to norepinephrine. Silico docking analysis of the Cavβ2a subunit of voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channel indicated putative docking sites for (-)-α-bisabolol. These findings reinforce the ability of (-)-α-bisabolol to inhibit preferentially contractile responses evoked by Ca(2+) influx through voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels.

[Risk factors and prevalence of HPV infection in patients from Basic Health Units of an University Hospital in Southern Brazil]

PURPOSE

To determine the HPV prevalence and genotypes and to identify factors associated with infection in pregnant and non-pregnant women with positive or negative HIV-1, treated in Gynecology and Obstetrics Ambulatories and in Health Primary Units, in Rio Grande, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil.

METHODS

Cervical cells samples from 302 patients were analyzed for HPV presence and genotypes were determined by nested and sequencing polymerase chain reaction. We calculated prevalence ratios associated with the studied variables by Fisher's exact or χ² tests, and Poisson's regression. Women with insufficient material were excluded from the study.

RESULTS

HPV was detected in 55 of the 302 women included in the study (18.2%); of these, 31 were pregnant, showing a significant association for HPV (p=0.04) when compared to non-pregnant ones. Risk factors for the infection were: patients aged <20 years-old (p=0.04), early initiation of sexual life (p=0.04), absence of cytological test (p=0.01), diagnosis of altered cytology (p=0.001), and counting <349 cells/mm³ (p=0.05). However, multi-parity was found to be a protective factor for the infection (p=0.01). Multivariate analysis showed that age <20 years-old (PR=2.8; 95%CI 1.0 - 7.7, p=0.04) and an altered cytological result (PR=11.1; 95%CI 3.0 - 4.1, p=0.001) were significantly associated with infection. HPV genotype was determined in 47 samples (85.4%) presenting one genotype per infection: eight HPV 16 and 58; six HPV 6; four HPV 18 and 33; three HPV 53 and 82; two HPV 83 and 61; one HPV 31, 35, 45, 64, 68, 71 and 85.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of HPV detection was 18.2%, the most frequent genotypes were 16 and 58, and sociodemographic and gynecological factors were associated with viral infection.

Herpes simplex virus: prevalence in placental tissue and incidence in neonatal cord blood samples

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection is one of the most prevalent infectious diseases worldwide, with HSV-2 being primarily associated with genital infections. HSV-2 is believed to account for the majority of cases of neonatal herpes, which may cause diverse of complications in infected newborns. The present study sought to estimate the prevalence of HSV-2 in placental tissue samples and the incidence of HSV-2 in the umbilical cord blood of newborn infants. Placental tissue samples from 201 women (maternal-side and fetal-side = 402 specimens) and 184 neonatal cord blood samples, all collected at the obstetric ward of a University hospital were studied. HSV-2 was detected by means of nested PCR. The prevalence of HSV-2 in placental samples was 9.0% (n = 18), and the incidence of neonatal HSV-2 infection was 1.1% (n = 2). All HSV-2-positive patients were asymptomatic at the time of delivery and none reported genital herpes. Women with a time between rupture of membranes and delivery of ≥360 min had an approximately fourfold risk of HSV-2 infection in the placental tissue (95% CI 0.93-5.66, P = 0.01). These results suggest that HSV-2 is present in the placenta of asymptomatic women and that a risk of transmission to the neonate exists. New strategies must be implemented for the management of asymptomatic patients who are capable of transmitting the virus to the newborn.

Evidence of association between hepatitis C virus genotype 2b and nosocomial transmissions in hemodialysis centers from southern Brazil

Background

Hepatitis C virus infection is a serious public health problem. Hemodialysis is considered one of the main risk factors of HCV infection, due to several invasive medical procedures and potential nosocomial transmission that patients with chronic renal failure (CRF) are continuously submitted. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of HCV and its genotypes in patients with CRF in hemodialysis units in southern Brazil.

Methods

Demographic data and risk factors for HCV transmission were collected and analyzed. These data were obtained from patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment from January 2009 to August 2010, on two dialysis units of Rio Grande, southern Brazil. Genotyping was carried out by sequencing analysis of HCV NS5b, core-E1 junction and 5′UTR genomic regions.

Results

One hundred fifty-nine patients under regular hemodialysis treatment were studied. HCV prevalence was 23.3%. HCV-infected patients had been on dialysis treatment for 91.9 months, a more prolonged period compared to HCV-negative patients (p = 0.001). While HCV genotypes 1b and 3a were identified as the most frequent strains, a surprisingly high proportion of genotype 2b was observed among patients in one of the dialysis centers compared to the general HCV-infected population of the same area. Hemodialysis treatment exposure time and healthcare working were associated with HCV infection.

Conclusions

Besides the efforts to minimize nosocomial transmission of HCV, some events of transmission are still evidenced in dialysis units.

Co-infections associated with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 in pregnant women from southern Brazil: high rate of intraepithelial cervical lesions

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-positive) pregnant women require specific prophylactic and therapeutic approaches. The efficacy of established approaches is further challenged by co-infection with other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of co-infections in pregnant women infected with different HIV-1 subtypes and to relate these findings, together with additional demographic and clinical parameters, to maternal and infant outcomes. Blood samples from pregnant women were collected and tested for syphilis, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV). Human papillomavirus (HPV) diagnosis was evaluated by the presence of alterations in the cervical epithelium detected through a cytopathological exam. Medical charts provided patient data for the mothers and children. Statistical analyses were conducted with STATA 9.0. We found a prevalence of 10.8% for HCV, 2.3% for chronic HBV, 3.1% for syphilis and 40.8% for HPV. Of those co-infected with HPV, 52.9% presented high-grade intraepithelial lesions or in situ carcinoma. Prematurity, birth weight, Apgar 1' and 5' and Capurro scores were similar between co-infected and non-co-infected women. The presence of other STDs did not impact maternal and concept outcomes. More than half of the patients presenting cervical cytology abnormalities suggestive of HPV had high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions or cervical cancer, evidencing an alarming rate of these lesions.

Distribution of mating-type alleles and M13 PCR markers in the black leaf spot fungus Mycosphaerella fijiensis of bananas in Brazil

The fungus Mycosphaerella fijiensis is the causative agent of black sigatoka, which is one of the most destructive diseases of banana plants. Infection with this pathogen results in underdeveloped fruit, with no commercial value. We analyzed the distribution of the M. fijiensis mating-type system and its genetic variability using M13 phage DNA markers. We found a 1:1 distribution of mating-type alleles, indicating MAT1-1 and MAT1-2 idiomorphs. A polymorphism analysis using three different primers for M13 markers showed that only the M13 minisatellite primers generated polymorphic products. We then utilized this polymorphism to characterize 40 isolates from various Brazilian states. The largest genetic distances were found between isolates from the same location and between isolates from different parts of the country. Therefore, there was no correlation between the genetic similarity and the geographic origin of the isolates. The M13 marker was used to generate genetic fingerprints for five isolates; these fingerprints were compared with the band profiles obtained from inter-simple sequence repeat (UBC861) and inter-retrotransposon amplified polymorphism analyses. We found that the M13 marker was more effective than the other two markers for differentiating these isolates.

The effect of combined polymorphisms in chemokines and chemokine receptors on the clinical course of HIV-1 infection in a Brazilian population

Polymorphisms in genes that encode chemokines or their receptors can modulate susceptibility to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and disease progression. The objective of this study was to assess the frequency of polymorphisms CCR5-Δ32, CCR2-64I, CCR5-59029A and SDF1-3'A and their role in the course of HIV infection in a Southern Brazilian population. Clinical data were obtained from 249 patients for an average period of 6.4 years and genotypes were determined by standard polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Survival analyses were conducted for three outcomes: CD4+ T-cell counts below 200 cells/µL, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or death. The frequency of the polymorphisms CCR5-Δ32, CCR2-64I, CCR5-59029A and SDF1-3'A were 0.024, 0.113, 0.487 and 0.207, respectively. CCR5-Δ32 was associated with a reduction in the risk for CD4+ T-cell depletion and with an increased risk for death after AIDS diagnosis. CCR2-64I was associated with a reduction in the risk for developing AIDS. SDF1-3'A was also associated with decreased risk for AIDS, but its effect was only evident when CCR2-64I was present as well. These results highlight the possibility of using these markers as indicators for the prognosis of disease progression and provide evidence for the importance of analysing the effects of gene polymorphisms in a combined fashion.

Prevalence of hepatitis C virus among users attending a voluntary testing centre in Rio Grande, southern Brazil: predictive factors and hepatitis C virus genotypes

We estimated the prevalence of hepatitis C (HCV) infection and associated risk factors in 750 individuals attending the Voluntary Counseling and Testing Center of Rio Grande (VCT/RG), in Southern Brazil, and identified viral genotypes. Demographic data and risk factors for HCV transmission were also collected and analysed. Anti-HCV antibody-positive individuals were tested for HCV-RNA and genotyped by sequencing the 5' untranslated region of the viral genome. Prevalence estimates of anti-HCV and HCV-RNA were 6% and 5.5%, respectively. We identified genotypes 1 (67%), 2 (2%) and 3 (31%); the latter was more prevalent than in other regions of Brazil. Anti-HCV prevalence in VCT/RG users was similar to previous reports. Age, previous blood transfusion, sexual orientation and injecting drug use were independent predictors of HCV infection. The presence of multiple risk factors was also associated with a higher risk for HCV infection. HCV genotype was not associated with any variable analysed in this study.

HIV-1 vertical transmission in Rio Grande, Southern Brazil

The aim of this study was to determine the rate and risk factors of HIV-1 mother-to-child transmission (MTCT), the timing of transmission and the transmitted subtype in a population where subtypes B and C co-circulate. One hundred and forty-four babies born to HIV-1-infected mothers were studied. Subtype and timing of transmission were determined by a nested polymerase chain reaction of the gp41 gene. Seven children were infected (4.9%): four were infected intrautero and one intrapartum. The higher frequency of intrautero transmission was statistically significant ( P = 0.001). Use of antiretrovirals (ARVs) in the three stages of gestation was a protective risk factor for MTCT (PR = 0.42; CI: 0.21–0.83; P = 0.013). A higher HIV viral load at delivery was the only independent risk factor for MTCT. Early and universal access to ARVs during pregnancy are the most important measures to decrease vertical HIV-1 transmission even in areas where HIV clade distribution differs.

Genetic diversity of neotropical primates: phylogeny, population genetics, and animal models for infectious diseases

The classification of neotropical primates has been controversial, and different arrangements have been proposed based on disparate taxonomic criteria and on the traits selected for elucidating phylogenetic reconstructions, like morphologic characters, nuclear DNA and mitochondrial DNA. Population studies of some neotropical primates have been useful for assessing their extant genetic variability and for understanding their social structure and dynamics. Finally, neotropical primates have become valuable models for some human infectious deseases, especially for HIV studies related to viral resistance. In this review, we comment on these aspects that make neotropical primates a group of highly valuable species for basic and applied research.