RESUMEN

The sacred ayahuasca brew, utilized by indigenous communities in the Amazon and syncretic religious groups in Brazil, primarily consists of a decoction of two plants: (i) the Amazonian liana known as Mariri or Jagube (Banisteriopsis caapi), and (ii) the shrub referred as Chacrona or Rainha (Psychotria viridis). While Chacrona leaves are rich in N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a potent psychedelic, the macerated vine of Mariri provides beta-carboline alkaloids acting as monoamine oxidase inhibitors, preventing DMT's degradation. This study sequenced, assembled, and analyzed the complete genome of B. caapi's mitochondrion, yielding a circular structure spanning 503,502 bp. Although the mtDNA encompasses most plant mitochondrial genes, it lacks some ribosomal genes, presents some atypical genes, and contains plastid pseudogenes, suggesting gene transfer between organelles. The presence of a 7-Kb repetitive segment containing copies of the rrnL and trnfM genes suggests mitogenome isomerization, supporting the hypothesis of dynamic mitogenome maintenance in plants. Phylogenetics and phylogenomics across 24 Malpighiales confirms the sample's placement in the "Tucunacá" ethnovariety, aligning with morphological identification. This study spearheads efforts to decode the genome of this esteemed Malpighiaceae.

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Theobroma grandiflorum (Malvaceae), known as cupuassu, is a tree indigenous to the Amazon basin, valued for its large fruits and seed pulp, contributing notably to the Amazonian bioeconomy. The seed pulp is utilized in desserts and beverages, and its seed butter is used in cosmetics. Here, we present the sequenced telomere-to-telomere genome of cupuassu, disclosing its genomic structure, evolutionary features, and phylogenetic relationships within the Malvaceae family. FINDINGS: The cupuassu genome spans 423 Mb, encodes 31,381 genes distributed in 10 chromosomes, and exhibits approximately 65% gene synteny with the Theobroma cacao genome, reflecting a conserved evolutionary history, albeit punctuated with unique genomic variations. The main changes are pronounced by bursts of long-terminal repeat retrotransposons at postspecies divergence, retrocopied and singleton genes, and gene families displaying distinctive patterns of expansion and contraction. Furthermore, positively selected genes are evident, particularly among retained and dispersed tandem and proximal duplicated genes associated with general fruit and seed traits and defense mechanisms, supporting the hypothesis of potential episodes of subfunctionalization and neofunctionalization following duplication, as well as impact from distinct domestication process. These genomic variations may underpin the differences observed in fruit and seed morphology, ripening, and disease resistance between cupuassu and the other Malvaceae species. CONCLUSIONS: The cupuassu genome offers a foundational resource for both breeding improvement and conservation biology, yielding insights into the evolution and diversity within the genus Theobroma.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

In recent years, Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Mbandaka (S. Mbandaka) has been increasingly isolated from laying hens and shell eggs around the world. Moreover, this serovar has been identified as the causative agent of several salmonellosis outbreaks in humans. Surprisingly, little is known about the characteristics of this emerging serovar, and therefore, we investigated antimicrobial resistance, virulence, and prophage genes of six selected Brazilian strains of Salmonella Mbandaka using Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS). Multi-locus sequence typing revealed that the tested strains belong to Sequence Type 413 (ST413), which has been linked to recent multi-country salmonellosis outbreaks in Europe. A total of nine resistance genes were detected, and the most frequent ones were aac(6')-Iaa, sul1, qacE, blaOXA-129, tet(B), and aadA1. A point mutation in ParC at the 57th position (threonine → serine) associated with quinolone resistance was present in all investigated genomes. A 112,960 bp IncHI2A plasmid was mapped in 4/6 strains. This plasmid harboured tetracycline (tetACDR) and mercury (mer) resistance genes, genes contributing to conjugative transfer, and genes involved in plasmid maintenance. Most strains (four/six) carried Salmonella genomic island 1 (SGI1). All S. Mbandaka genomes carried seven pathogenicity islands (SPIs) involved in intracellular survival and virulence: SPIs 1-5, 9, and C63PI. The virulence genes csgC, fimY, tcfA, sscA, (two/six), and ssaS (one/six) were absent in some of the genomes; conversely, fimA, prgH, and mgtC were present in all of them. Five Salmonella bacteriophage sequences (with homology to Escherichia phage phiV10, Enterobacteria phage Fels-2, Enterobacteria phage HK542, Enterobacteria phage ST64T, Salmonella phage SW9) were identified, with protein counts between 31 and 54, genome lengths of 24.7 bp and 47.7 bp, and average GC content of 51.25%. In the phylogenetic analysis, the genomes of strains isolated from poultry in Brazil clustered into well-supported clades with a heterogeneous distribution, primarily associated with strains isolated from humans and food. The phylogenetic relationship of Brazilian S. Mbandaka suggests the presence of strains with high epidemiological significance and the potential to be linked to foodborne outbreaks. Overall, our results show that isolated strains of S. Mbandaka are multidrug-resistant and encode a rather conserved virulence machinery, which is an epidemiological hallmark of Salmonella strains that have successfully disseminated both regionally and globally.

RESUMEN

Objective To evaluate the influence of polymorphisms on genes encoding type I collagen and the genetic susceptibility of tendinopathy. Methodology Case-control study involving 242 Brazilian athletes from different sports modalities (55 cases of tendinopathy and 187 controls). The polymorphisms COL1A1 (rs1107946) and COL1A2 (rs412777, rs42524, and rs2621215) were analyzed by the TaqMan system. Odds ratio (OR) with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a nonconditional logistic regression model. Results The mean age was 24.0 ± 5.6 years old and 65.3% were men. Of the 55 cases of tendinopathy, 25.4% had > 1 affected tendon, the most frequent being patellar (56.3%), rotator cuff (30.9%) and elbow or hand flexors (30.9%). Age and amount of time of sports practice were associated with a higher chance of presenting tendinopathy (5 and 8 times, respectively). The frequency of variant alleles in control and case patients, respectively, was: COL1A1 rs1107946 24.0 and 29.6%; COL1A2 rs412777 36.1 and 27.8%; rs42524 17.5 and 25.9%; and rs2621215 21.3 and 27.8%. After adjusting for confounding factors (age and years of sports practice), COL1A2 rs42524 and rs2621215 polymorphisms were associated with increased risk of tendinopathy (OR = 5.5; 95%CI = 1.2-24.6 and OR = 3.9; IC95% = 1.1-13.5, respectively). The haplotype COL1A2 CGT was associated with low risk for disease development (OR = 0.5; 95%CI = 0.3-0.9). Conclusion Age (≥ 25 years old), time of sports practice (≥ 6 years) and polymorphisms in the COL1A2 gene increased the risk of developing tendinopathy.

RESUMEN

Central American and Mexican Pinguicula species are characterized by enormous divergence in size and color of flowers and are pollinated by butterflies, flies, bees, and hummingbirds. It is known that floral trichomes are key characters in plant-pollinator interaction. The main aim of our study was to verify our hypothesis that the distribution and diversity of non-glandular and glandular trichomes are related to the pollinator syndromes rather than the phylogenetic relationships. The studied sample consisted of Central American and Mexican species. In our study, we relied on light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy with a phylogenetic perspective based on ITS DNA sequences. The flower morphology of species pollinated by butterflies and hummingbirds was similar in contrast to species pollinated by flies and bees. Species pollinated by butterflies and hummingbirds contained low diversity of non-glandular trichomes, which occurred mostly in the tube and basal part of the spur. Surprisingly, in P. esseriana and P. mesophytica, non-glandular trichomes also occurred at the base of lower lip petals. In the case of species pollinated by flies/bees, we observed a high variety of non-glandular trichomes, which occurred on the surface of corolla petals, in the tube, and at the entrance to the spur. Furthermore, we did not identify any non-glandular trichomes in the spur. The capitate glandular trichomes were of similar morphology in all examined species. There were minor differences in the shape of the trichome head, as well as the length and the number of stalk cells. The distribution and the diversity of non-glandular and glandular trichomes and pollinator syndromes were mapped onto a phylogenetic reconstruction of the genus. Most micromorphological characters appear to be associated more with floral adaptation to pollinators and less with phylogeny.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Abstract Objective To evaluate the influence of polymorphisms on genes encoding type I collagen and the genetic susceptibility of tendinopathy. Methodology Case-control study involving 242 Brazilian athletes from different sports modalities (55 cases of tendinopathy and 187 controls). The polymorphisms COLIAI (rs1107946) and COLIA2 (rs412777, rs42524, and rs2621215) were analyzed by theTaqMansystem. Odds ratio(OR)withtheir 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a nonconditional logistic regression model. Results The mean age was 24.0 ± 5.6 years old and 65.3% were men. Of the 55 cases of tendinopathy, 25.4% had > 1 affected tendon, the most frequent being patellar (56.3%), rotator cuff (30.9%) and elbow or hand flexors (30.9%). Age and amount of time of sports practice were associated with a higher chance of presenting tendinopathy (5 and 8 times, respectively). The frequency of variant alleles in control and case patients, respectively, was: COLIAI rs1107946 24.0 and 29.6%; COLIA2 rs412777 36.1 and 27.8%; rs42524 17.5 and 25.9%; and rs2621215 21.3 and 27.8%. After adjusting for confounding factors (age and years of sports practice), COLIA2 rs42524and rs2621215 polymorphisms were associated with increased risk of tendinopathy (OR = 5.5; 95% CI = 1.2-24.6 and OR = 3.9; IC95% = 1.1-13.5, respectively). The haplotype COLIA2 CGT was associated with low risk for disease development (OR = 0.5; 95%CI = 0.3-0.9). Conclusion Age (≥ 25 years old), time of sports practice (≥ 6years) and polymorphisms in the COLIA2 gene increased the risk of developing tendinopathy.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a influência de polimorfismos nos genes que codificam o colágeno tipo I e a suscetibilidade genética da tendinopatia. Metodologia Estudo caso-controle envolvendo 242 atletas brasileiros de diferentes modalidades esportivas (55 casos de tendinopatia e 187 controles). Os polimorfismos COL1A1 (rs1107946) e COL1A2 (rs412777, rs42524 e rs2621215) foram analisados pelo sistema TaqMan. As razões de chance (OR) com seus intervalos de confiança (IC) de 95% foram calculadas usando um modelo de regressão logística não-condicional. Resultados A média de idade foi de 24,0 ± 5,6 anos e 65,3% eram homens. Dos 55 casos de tendinopatia, 25,4% apresentaram mais de um tendão acometido, sendo os maisfrequentesopatelar(56,3%),omanguitorotador(30,9%)eodocotoveloou flexores das mãos (30,9%). A idade e o tempo de prática esportiva foram associados a uma maior chance de apresentar tendinopatia (5 e 8 vezes, respectivamente). A frequência dos alelos variantes nos controles e casos, respectivamente, foi: COL1A1 rs1107946 24,0 e 29,6%; COL1A2 rs412777 36,1 e 27,8%; rs42524 17,5 e 25,9%; e rs2621215 21,3 e 27,8%. Após ajuste pelos fatores de confundimento (idade e anos de práticas esportiva), os polimorfismos COL1A2 rs42524 e rs2621215 foram associados a um risco aumentado de tendinopatia (OR = 5,5; IC95% = 1,2-24,6 e OR = 3,9; IC95% = 1,1-13,5, respectivamente). O haplótipo COL1A2 CGT foi associado a um baixo risco para desenvolvimento da doença (OR = 0,5; IC95% = 0,3-0,9). Conclusão Aidade (> 25 anos), o tempo de prática esportiva (> 6 anos) e polimorfismos no gene COL1A2 aumentaram o risco de desenvolvimento da tendino-patia.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Unlike the chloroplast genomes (ptDNA), the plant mitochondrial genomes (mtDNA) are much more plastic in structure and size but maintain a conserved and essential gene set related to oxidative phosphorylation. Moreover, the plant mitochondrial genes and mtDNA are good markers for phylogenetic, evolutive, and comparative analyses. The two most known species in Theobroma L. (Malvaceae s.l.) genus are T. cacao, and T. grandiflorum. Besides the economic value, both species also show considerable biotechnology potential due to their other derived products, thus, aggregating additional economic value for the agroindustry. Here, we assembled and compared the mtDNA of Theobroma cacao and T. grandiflorum to generate a new genomics resource and unravel evolutionary trends. Graph-based analyses revealed that both mtDNA exhibit multiple alternative arrangements, confirming the dynamism commonly observed in plant mtDNA. The disentangled assembly graph revealed potential predominant circular molecules. The master circle molecules span 543,794 bp for T. cacao and 501,598 bp for T. grandiflorum, showing 98.9% of average sequence identity. Both mtDNA contains the same set of 39 plant mitochondrial genes, commonly found in other rosid mitogenomes. The main features are a duplicated copy of atp4, the absence of rpl6, rps2, rps8, and rps11, and the presence of two chimeric open-reading frames. Moreover, we detected few ptDNA integrations mainly represented by tRNAs, and no viral sequences were detected. Phylogenomics analyses indicate Theobroma spp. are nested in Malvaceae family. The main mtDNA differences are related to distinct structural rearrangements and exclusive regions associated with relics of Transposable Elements, supporting the hypothesis of dynamic mitochondrial genome maintenance and divergent evolutionary paths and pressures after species differentiation.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Psychotria viridis (Rubioideae: Rubiaceae), popularly known as chacrona, is commonly found as a shrub in the Amazon region and is well-known to produce psychoactive compounds, such as the N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT). Together with the liana Banisteropsis caapi, P. viridis is one of the main components of the Amerindian traditional, entheogenic beverage known as ayahuasca. In this work, we assembled and annotated the organellar genomes (ptDNA and mtDNA), presenting the first genomics resources for this species. The P. viridis ptDNA exhibits 154,106 bp, encoding all known ptDNA gene repertoire found in angiosperms. The Psychotria genus is a complex paraphyletic group, and according to phylogenomic analyses, P. viridis is nested in the Psychotrieae clade. Comparative ptDNA analyses indicate that most Rubiaceae plastomes present conserved ptDNA structures, often showing slight differences at the junction sites of the major four regions (LSC-IR-SSC). For the mitochondrion, assembly graph-based analysis supports a complex mtDNA organization, presenting at least two alternative and circular mitogenomes structures exhibiting two main repeats spanning 24 kb and 749 bp that may symmetrically isomerize the mitogenome into variable arrangements and isoforms. The circular mtDNA sequences (615,370 and 570,344 bp) encode almost all plant mitochondrial genes (except for the ccmC, rps7, rps10, rps14, rps19, rpl2 and rpl16 that appears as pseudogenes, and the absent genes sdh3, rps2, rsp4, rsp8, rps11, rpl6, and rpl10), showing slight variations related to exclusive regions, ptDNA integration, and relics of previous events of LTR-RT integration. The detection of two mitogenomes haplotypes is evidence of heteroplasmy as observed by the complex organization of the mitochondrial genome using graph-based analysis. Taken together, these results elicit the primary insights into the genome biology and evolutionary history of Psychotria viridis and may be used to aid strategies for conservation of this sacred, entheogenic species.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

This study aimed to assess the effects of thermogenic oils (safflower and coconut oils) as a replacement for ractopamine in heavy pig diets. A total of 24 mix-breed barrows with an average weight of 98.70 ± 1.63 kg were distributed in a randomized block design with four treatments and six replicates. Treatments were as follows: basal diet, modified basal diet + 10 ppm ractopamine, basal diet + safflower oil, and basal diet + coconut oil. Animal performance, organ weights, meat quality, carcass traits, and economic viability were determined. Data were analyzed using Duncan's test at the 5% significance level. The safflower oil diet resulted in the highest carcass meat and ham weights, whereas the coconut oil diet provided the highest loin eye area and the lowest fat area, resulting in the highest meat/fat ratio. Analysis of economic viability indicators revealed that vegetable oil treatments differed significantly from other treatments in feed cost, feed cost per kilogram of live weight, economic viability index, and cost index, given that oil inclusion increased the price of diets. Supplementation of heavy pig diets with thermogenic oils is a viable alternative to enhance lean meat production, but its use depends on market availability and product price.(AU)

Este estudo visou avaliar os efeitos dos óleos termogênicos (óleos de cártamo e de coco) como substitutos da racto-pamina em dietas de suínos pesados. Um total de 24 suínos machos castrados com um peso médio de 98,70 ± 1,63 kg foram distribuídos em um modelo de blocos aleatorizados com quatro tratamentos e seis repetições. Os tratamentos foram os seguintes: dieta basal (RB), RB modificada + 10 ppm de ractopamina, RB + óleo de cártamo, e RB + óleo de coco. Foram determinados o desempenho animal, pesos dos órgãos, qualidade da carne, características da carcaça, e viabilidade económica. Os dados foram analisados utilizando o teste de Duncan ao nível de 5% de significância. A dieta de óleo de Cártamo resultou na maior quan-tidade de carne de carcaça e pesos de pernil, enquanto que a dieta de óleo de coco forneceu a maior área do olho do lombo e a menor área de gordura, resultando na maior relação carne/gordura. A análise dos indicadores de viabilidade económica reve-lou que os tratamentos com óleo vegetal diferiram significativamente de outros tratamentos no custo da alimentação, custo da alimentação por quilograma de peso vivo, índice de viabilidade económica, e índice de custo, dado que a inclusão do óleo aumentou o preço das dietas. A suplementação de dietas de suínos pesados com óleos termogênicos é uma alternativa viável para aumentar a produção de carne magra, mas a sua utilização depende da disponibilidade no mercado e do preço do produto.(AU)

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented significant challenges and implications for the sports community. Thus, this study aimed to describe the prevalence of COVID-19 in Brazilian athletes and identify the epidemiological, clinical, athletic, life and health factors associated with the disease in these individuals. A cross-sectional study was performed involving 414 athletes from 22 different sports using an online questionnaire from August to November 2020. The association between the athletes' characteristics and COVID-19 was evaluated using a logistic regression model. The prevalence of COVID-19 was 8.5%, although only 40% of athletes reported having been tested. Being under 27 years of age (3-fold), having children (~5-fold), having a teammate test positive for COVID-19 (2.5-fold), and smoking (14-fold) were associated with a possible higher risk of disease. Almost 20% of athletes self-reported musculoskeletal injuries during the period of the pandemic that was studied. Athletes with a university education (P = 0.02), a profession other than sports (P < 0.001), those from a low-income family (P = 0.01), and public health system users (P = 0.04) were significantly less frequently tested for COVID-19, whereas international competitors, athletes who received a wage, and athletes who had a teammate who tested positive for COVID-19 were 2-, 3-, and 15-fold more likely to be tested for COVID-19, respectively. Approximately 26% of the athletes who tested negative or were untested reported more than three characteristic COVID-19 symptoms, and 11% of athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 were asymptomatic. The identification of modifiable (have children, smoking, and teammates positively tested) and non-modifiable (age under 27 years) factors related to COVID-19 in athletes can contribute to implementing surveillance programmes to decrease the incidence of COVID-19 in athletes and its negative impacts in sports.

RESUMEN

The genus Utricularia includes around 250 species of carnivorous plants, commonly known as bladderworts. The generic name Utricularia was coined by Carolus Linnaeus in reference to the carnivorous organs (Utriculus in Latin) present in all species of the genus. Since the formal proposition by Linnaeus, many species of Utricularia were described, but only scarce information about the biology for most species is known. All Utricularia species are herbs with vegetative organs that do not follow traditional models of morphological classification. Since the formal description of Utricularia in the 18th century, the trap function has intrigued naturalists. Historically, the traps were regarded as floating organs, a common hypothesis that was maintained by different botanists. However, Charles Darwin was most likely the first naturalist to refute this idea, since even with the removal of all traps, the plants continued to float. More recently, due mainly to methodological advances, detailed studies on the trap function and mechanisms could be investigated. This review shows a historical perspective on Utricularia studies which focuses on the traps and body organization.

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: High levels of the tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) induce apoptosis and pro-inflammatory effects for primary degeneration of tendon and development of tendinopathy. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the TNF-α polymorphisms and tendinopathy in athletes. METHODS: Two hundred and seventy athletes (135 tendinopathy cases and 135 controls) were included and genotyped (TNF-α -1031T > C; -857 C > T; -308G > A) using TaqMan validated assays. The association of the polymorphisms with tendinopathy was evaluated by a multivariate logistic regression model, using odds ratios (OR) and 95 % confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS: The variant allele - 308 A was significantly associated with patellar (OR: 1.9; 95 % CI: 1.01-3.6) or Achilles tendinopathies (OR: 2.7; 95 % CI: 1.1-6.7). No significant differences were found in allele or genotype distributions of the - 1031T > C and - 857 C > T polymorphisms between cases and controls. TNF-α TCA haplotype was associated with increased tendinopathies risk, either considering all cases (OR: 2.6, 95 % CI: 1.3-5.3), patellar (OR: 3.3, 95 % CI: 1.5-7.3), rotator cuff (OR: 3.1, 95 % CI: 1.4-7.2) or Achilles tendinopathies (OR: 3.8, 95 % CI: 1.1-12.7). CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that the TNF-α polymorphisms could influence the susceptibility to developing tendinopathy among athletes. Knowledge of the TNF-α polymorphisms associated to tendinopathy in athletes can further understanding of the inflammatory role in the early stages of the disease and contribute for sports injury surveillance programmes, in which athletes with TNF-α TCA haplotype could be early subjected to cryotherapy after training and competition to avoid tendinopathy development.

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: In view of the potential immunosuppressive and regenerative properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), we investigated whether transplantation of adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ASC) could be used to control the granulomatous reaction in the liver of mice infected with Schistosoma mansoni after Praziquantel (PZQ) treatment. METHODOLOGY/PRINICPAL FINDINGS: C57BL/6 mice infected with S. mansoni were treated with PZQ and transplanted intravenously with ASC from uninfected mice. Liver morpho-physiological and immunological analyses were performed. The combined PZQ/ASC therapy significantly reduced the volume of hepatic granulomas, as well as liver damage as measured by ALT levels. We also observed that ASC accelerated the progression of the granulomatous inflammation to the advanced/curative phase. The faster healing interfered with the expression of CD28 and CTLA-4 molecules in CD4+ T lymphocytes, and the levels of IL-10 and IL-17 cytokines, mainly in the livers of PZQ/ASC-treated mice. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that ASC therapy after PZQ treatment results in smaller granulomas with little tissue damage, suggesting the potential of ASC for the development of novel therapeutic approaches to minimize hepatic lesions as well as a granulomatous reaction following S. mansoni infection. Further studies using the chronic model of schistosomiasis are required to corroborate the therapeutic use of ASC for schistosomiasis.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Floral food bodies (including edible trichomes) are a form of floral reward for pollinators. This type of nutritive reward has been recorded in several angiosperm families: Annonaceae, Araceae, Calycanthaceae, Eupomatiaceae, Himantandraceae, Nymphaeaceae, Orchidaceae, Pandanaceae and Winteraceae. Although these bodies are very diverse in their structure, their cells contain food material: starch grains, protein bodies or lipid droplets. In Pinguicula flowers, there are numerous multicellular clavate trichomes. Previous authors have proposed that these trichomes in the Pinguicula flower play the role of 'futterhaare' ('feeding hairs') and are eaten by pollinators. The main aim of this study was to investigate whether the floral non-glandular trichomes of Pinguicula contain food reserves and thus are a reward for pollinators. The trichomes from the Pinguicula groups, which differ in their taxonomy (species from the subgenera: Temnoceras, Pinguicula and Isoloba) as well as the types of their pollinators (butterflies/flies and bees/hummingbirds), were examined. Thus, it was determined whether there are any connections between the occurrence of food trichomes and phylogeny position or pollination biology. Additionally, we determined the phylogenetic history of edible trichomes and pollinator evolution in the Pinguicula species. METHODS: The species that were sampled were: Pinguicula moctezumae, P. esseriana, P. moranensis, P. emarginata, P. rectifolia, P. mesophytica, P. hemiepiphytica, P. agnata, P. albida, P. ibarrae, P. martinezii, P. filifolia, P. gigantea, P. lusitanica, P. alpina and P. vulgaris. Light microscopy, histochemistry, and scanning and transmission electron microscopy were used to address our aims with a phylogenetic perspective based on matK/trnK DNA sequences. KEY RESULTS: No accumulation of protein bodies or lipid droplets was recorded in the floral non-glandular trichomes of any of the analysed species. Starch grains occurred in the cells of the trichomes of the bee-/fly-pollinated species: P. agnata, P. albida, P. ibarrae, P. martinezii, P. filifolia and P. gigantea, but not in P. alpina or P. vulgaris. Moreover, starch grains were not recorded in the cells of the trichomes of the Pinguicula species that have long spurs, which are pollinated by Lepidoptera (P. moctezumae, P. esseriana, P. moranensis, P. emarginata and P. rectifolia) or birds (P. mesophytica and P. hemiepihytica), or in species with a small and whitish corolla that self-pollinate (P. lusitanica). The results on the occurrence of edible trichomes and pollinator syndromes were mapped onto a phylogenetic reconstruction of the genus. CONCLUSION: Floral non-glandular trichomes play the role of edible trichomes in some Pinguicula species (P. agnata, P. albida, P. ibarrae, P. martinezii, P. filifolia and P. gigantea), which are mainly classified as bee-pollinated species that had originated from Central and South America. It seems that in the Pinguicula that are pollinated by other pollinator groups (Lepidoptera and hummingbirds), the non-glandular trichomes in the flowers play a role other than that of a floral reward for their pollinators. Edible trichomes are symplesiomorphic for the Pinguicula species, and thus do not support a monophyletic group such as a synapomorphy. Nevertheless, edible trichomes are derived and are possibly a specialization for fly and bee pollinators by acting as a food reward for these visitors.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal injuries (MSK-I) are a serious problem in sports medicine. Modifiable and non-modifiable factors are associated with susceptibility to these injuries. Thus, the aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of and identify the factors associated with MSK-I, including tendinopathy and joint and muscle injuries, in athletes. METHODS: In this cross-sectional observational study, 627 athletes from rugby (n = 225), soccer (n = 172), combat sports (n = 86), handball (n = 82) and water polo (n = 62) were recruited at different sports training centres and competitions. Athlete profiles and the prevalence of MSK-I were assessed using a self-reported questionnaire. Only previous MSK-I with imaging confirmation and/or a positive physical exam by a specialized orthopaedist were considered. The association of the epidemiological, clinical and sports profiles of athletes with MSK-I was evaluated by a logistic regression model. RESULTS: The mean age was 25 ± 6 years, and 60% of the athletes were male. The epidemiological, clinical and sports profiles of the athletes were different for the five sport groups. The MSK-I prevalence among all athletes was 76%, with 55% of MSK-I occurring in a joint, 48% occurring in a muscle and 30% being tendinopathy, and 19% of athletes had three investigated injuries. The MSK-I prevalence and injury locations were significantly different among sport groups. There was a predominance of joint injury in combat sports athletes (77%), muscle injury in handball athletes (67%) and tendinopathy in water polo athletes (52%). Age (≥30 years) was positively associated with joint (OR = 5.2 and 95% CI = 2.6-10.7) and muscle (OR = 4.9 and 95% CI = 2.4-10.1) injuries and tendinopathy (OR = 4.1 and 95% CI = 1.9-9.3). CONCLUSION: There is a high prevalence of tendinopathy and joint and muscle injuries among rugby, soccer, combat sports, handball and water polo athletes. The analysis of associated factors (epidemiological, clinical and sports profiles) and the presence of MSK-I in athletes suggests an approximately 4-5-fold increased risk for athletes ≥30 years of age. The identification of modifiable and non-modifiable factors can contribute to implementing surveillance programmes for MSK-I prevention.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Genlisea hawkingii, which is a new species of Genlisea subgen. Tayloria (Lentibulariaceae) from cerrado in southwest Brazil, is described and illustrated. This species has been found in only one locality thus far, in the Serra da Canastra, which is located in the Delfinópolis municipality in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The new species is morphologically similar to Genlisea violacea and G. flexuosa, but differs from them in having a corolla with a conical and curved spur along with sepals with an acute apex and reproductive organs that only have glandular hairs. Moreover, it is similar to G. uncinata's curved spur. G. hawkingii is nested within the subgen. Tayloria clade as a sister group to all the other species of this subgenus. Therefore, both morphological and phylogenetic results strongly support G. hawkingii as a new species in the subgen. Tayloria.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Utricularia amethystina Salzm. ex A.St.-Hil. & Girard (Lentibulariaceae) is a highly polymorphic carnivorous plant taxonomically rearranged many times throughout history. Herein, the complete chloroplast genomes (cpDNA) of three U. amethystina morphotypes: purple-, white-, and yellow-flowered, were sequenced, compared, and putative markers for systematic, populations, and evolutionary studies were uncovered. In addition, RNA-Seq and RNA-editing analysis were employed for functional cpDNA evaluation. The cpDNA of three U. amethystina morphotypes exhibits typical quadripartite structure. Fine-grained sequence comparison revealed a high degree of intraspecific genetic variability in all morphotypes, including an exclusive inversion in the psbM and petN genes in U. amethystina yellow. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that U. amethystina morphotypes are monophyletic. Furthermore, in contrast to the terrestrial Utricularia reniformis cpDNA, the U. amethystina morphotypes retain all the plastid NAD(P)H-dehydrogenase (ndh) complex genes. This observation supports the hypothesis that the ndhs in terrestrial Utricularia were independently lost and regained, also suggesting that different habitats (aquatic and terrestrial) are not related to the absence of Utricularia ndhs gene repertoire as previously assumed. Moreover, RNA-Seq analyses recovered similar patterns, including nonsynonymous RNA-editing sites (e.g., rps14 and petB). Collectively, our results bring new insights into the chloroplast genome architecture and evolution of the photosynthesis machinery in the Lentibulariaceae.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Utricularia belongs to Lentibulariaceae, a widespread family of carnivorous plants that possess ultra-small and highly dynamic nuclear genomes. It has been shown that the Lentibulariaceae genomes have been shaped by transposable elements expansion and loss, and multiple rounds of whole-genome duplications (WGD), making the family a platform for evolutionary and comparative genomics studies. To explore the evolution of Utricularia, we estimated the chromosome number and genome size, as well as sequenced the terrestrial bladderwort Utricularia reniformis (2n = 40, 1C = 317.1-Mpb). Here, we report a high quality 304 Mb draft genome, with a scaffold NG50 of 466-Kb, a BUSCO completeness of 87.8%, and 42,582 predicted genes. Compared to the smaller and aquatic U. gibba genome (101 Mb) that has a 32% repetitive sequence, the U. reniformis genome is highly repetitive (56%). The structural differences between the two genomes are the result of distinct fractionation and rearrangements after WGD, and massive proliferation of LTR-retrotransposons. Moreover, GO enrichment analyses suggest an ongoing gene birth-death-innovation process occurring among the tandem duplicated genes, shaping the evolution of carnivory-associated functions. We also identified unique patterns of developmentally related genes that support the terrestrial life-form and body plan of U. reniformis. Collectively, our results provided additional insights into the evolution of the plastic and specialized Lentibulariaceae genomes.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

The incidence of coronary artery aneurysms ranges from 0.2% to 10.5%. Aneurysms have been described after percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) and hypersensitivity to polymers, nickel, cobalt, inflammatory reaction rich in eosinophils, drug released by the stent, fracture and malapposition of the stent, stent endothelialization delay, high pressures used in the procedures, oversizing of balloons and stents, unhealed dissections, atheroablative techniques, and trauma of the arterial wall are related to appearance of coronary artery aneurysms. In this case report, we described a patient with human immunodeficiency virus and thrombophilia who underwent primary PCI and at the end of the procedure had thrombi in the coronary artery. It was decided by triple therapy and new angiographic study 2 days later. This new angiography revealed thrombi resolution but the appearance of an aneurysm in the middle portion of the drug-eluting stent. The anticoagulant was stopped and we performed watchful waiting strategy with new serial angiograms that revealed progressive reduction and disappearance of the aneurysm. Subsequently triple therapy with warfarin, aspirin and clopidogrel was restarted and the patient progressed asymptomatic and performed his daily activities normally. At 6 months of clinical follow-up, we advised the patient to suspend aspirin and to continue secondary prevention of cardiovascular events.

RESUMEN

Carnivorous plant species, such as Utricularia spp., capture and digest prey. This digestion can occur through the secretion of plant digestive enzymes and/or by bacterial digestive enzymes. To comprehend the physiological mechanisms of carnivorous plants, it is essential to understand the microbial diversity related to these plants. Therefore, in the present study, we isolated and classified bacteria from different organs of Utricularia breviscapa (stolons and utricles) and from different geographic locations (São Paulo and Mato Grosso). We were able to build the first bacterium collection for U. breviscapa and study the diversity of cultivable bacteria. The results show that U. breviscapa bacterial diversity varied according to the geographic isolation site (São Paulo and Mato Grosso) but not the analyzed organs (utricle and stolon). We reported that six genera were common to both sample sites (São Paulo and Mato Grosso). These genera have previously been reported to be beneficial to plants, as well as related to the bioremediation process, showing that these isolates present great biotechnological and agricultural potential. This is the first report of an Acidobacteria isolated from U. breviscapa. The role of these bacteria inside the plant must be further investigated in order to understand their population dynamics within the host.(AU)