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The current genetic diversity of Apis mellifera colonies in Argentina was evaluated using geometric morphometric analysis of wing shape in 480 managed colonies collected in different regions and 154 colonies commercially produced by 28 different queen breeders. In addition, mitotype (COI-COII) characterization was conducted on queen breeders’ colonies. We found European morphotypes in managed colonies from central and southern regions and greater diversity of A. mellifera subspecies compared to the northern region where African morphotype predominates. In queen breeders’ colonies, we found a fairly heterogeneous degree of hybridization, similar to managed colonies in the central and southern regions but with a clear predominance of A. m. ligustica and A. m. carnica, which was consistent with the mitotype analysis. Current genetic diversity in Argentina is wide and comprises mainly seven subspecies belonging to four evolutionary lineages (C, M, A, and O). This probably results from both historical and current importation events, transhumance, and exchange of queens between regions lacking strong geographical barriers, in combination with genetic dominance factors, gene flow, or adaptation to different environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to detect mutations associated with pyrethroid resistance mechanism in different populations of Varroa destructor from Uruguay and Argentina with different degree of susceptibility to this family of acaricides. Bioassays were performed to evaluate the degree of susceptibility to flumethrin and tau-fuvalinate; then mites were studied in order to determine the presence or absence of the resistance-associated mutations by sequencing a region of the sodium channel gene. In the mites studied from Colonia, which showed resistance to flumethrin and susceptibility to tau-fluvalinate in the bioassays, L925V mutation was observed in heterozygous and homozygous state. The presence of the wild-type allele in homozygous state was identified in all mites from Treinta y Tres, in which acaricides have never been used. The mite population from Mar del Plata through bioassays were determined as susceptible to both pyrethroids, however, genotyping results showed the presence of heterozygous individuals (925 V/L) as well as homozygous wild type (925L), while homozygous resistant individuals (925V) were present at low frequency. This would suggest that this population presents a great potential to give a generalized resistance to pyrethroids. This study represents the first report of a L925V mutation in resistant mites to flumethrin from South America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phoretic mites associated with bumblebees are considered commensals that represent little or no risk for their hosts. The aim of the present study was to assess the potential role of the phoretic mites Pneumolaelaps longanalis and Parasitellus fucorum, as carriers of parasites that are known to affect bees. Mites were extracted from bumblebees dating between 1945 and 1981 which belong to museum collections, and from a freshly collected queen. The DNA was extracted and amplified, and the final products were sequenced and analyzed. Parasite's DNA was found in all samples. Ascosphaera spp., Crithidia bombi, Lotmaria passim, and Nosema ceranae were present in both mite species. Moreover, DNA from Apis mellifera filamentous virus (AmFV), Apicystis bombi, Ascosphaera apis, Nosema apis, and Nosema bombi was found in P. longanalis. This study represents the oldest report of parasite's DNA in bumblebee phoretic mites, highlighting the relevance of museum samples for historical studies in parasitology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apis mellifera filamentous virus (AmFV) is a large double stranded DNA virus of honey bees and its prevalence and relationship with other parasites is poorly known. Samples consisted of fifty-one adult bees belonging to eight native species collected using entomological nets in six provinces of Argentina, from 2009 to 2018. Total genomic DNA was extracted from individual bees and a 551 bp fragment of the Bro-N gene of AmFV was amplified by qPCR. In the present work we have reported for the first time both the presence and the wide geographic distribution of AmFV in Argentinian species of native bees. This is the first report of the presence of this virus associated with Xylocopa atamisquensis, X. augusti, X. frontalis, X. spendidula, Bombus pauloensis and Peponapis fervens. Detecting pathogens that could threaten native bee health is of outmost importance to generate both conservation and management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fatty acids (FAs) are important in metabolism and in the maintenance of Apis mellifera colonies. Our objective was to identify the variation in FA composition of the bodies of A. mellifera worker bees after immunological challenges with sterile injections and Paenibacillus larvae vegetative cells. The expression of the hymenoptaecin and abaecin genes was studied and the FAs were identified and quantified. After a challenge with P. larvae, the immune system was activated and abaecin and hymenoptaecin peptide genes were overexpressed. Also, the content of short-chain FAs such as caprylic, capric, and tridecylic acids increased significantly; on the contrary, oleic acid decreased. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first analysis of changes in the FA profile of honey bee workers after immune stimulation with P. larvae. Health status may be a key factor that alters FA composition. More research about the interaction with other stressors affecting the survival of honey bee colonies is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The honey bee tracheal mite Acarapis woodi is an internal obligate parasite of adult honey bees (Apis mellifera). The small size of the mites and location within the bee's trachea create a challenge for diagnostic identification. Detailed assessment of low-level mite infestation involves microscopic examination of the bee's tracheae, but this traditional diagnostic method takes a long time. In recent years, new molecular diagnostic techniques have been developed to identify A. woodi with the use of PCRs. The purpose of this study was to compare the diagnostic sensitivity of microscopic examination and qPCR method for the detection of A. woodi in honey bee samples. Thirty-six samples were analyzed with both methods and qPCR was more sensitive than the microscopic method to detect A. woodi. This work demonstrates the practical application of molecular technology as a support tool for surveys and contingency management and to provide robust surveillance data on the presence or absence of A. woodi in honey bee colonies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transmission of viruses by Varroa destructor Anderson & Trueman to bees has been identified as one of the main threats to Apis mellifera L. colonies. It has also been suggested that synergistic parasite-pathogen interaction mediated by A. mellifera immunity can drive the collapse of honey bee colonies. We analyzed the relationship between deformed wing virus (DWV) viral load and gene expression levels of Toll Wheeler, cactus, domeless, TEPA, nitric oxide synthase, hymenoptaecin, vitellogenin, defensin, abaecin in winter bee samples of A. mellifera with and without deformed wings. Samples were collected from hives in the field with high V. destructor infestation. In bees with deformed wings we found an increase in DWV titre and upregulation of genes in the Jak-STAT signalling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apis mellifera populations are being threatened by several pathogens and parasitosis. Several authors have proposed that honey bee colonies may suffer from a compromised immune system leading to colony loss. This is why the study of A. mellifera immune system has become a topic of pressing concern. Nitric oxide (NO) is a signaling and immune effector molecule that has been proposed as a key molecule in invertebrate immunity, and that plays a part in A. mellifera cellular defenses. This paper deals with NO participation in the response to wounding/encapsulation challenge in A. mellifera fifth instar (L5) larvae. Challenging A. mellifera L5 larvae with nylon implants enhanced NO production and spreading in granulocyte-like hemocytes and increased the number of this NO-producing hemocyte type. However, AmNOS expression levels were not influenced by the insult. These results reveal that NO participates in the wound healing/encapsulation response as a signal molecule, possibly by the activation of a constitutively expressed AmNOS in honey bees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both the identity and prevalence of parasitoid dipterans associated with bumble bees (Bombus spp.) in southern South America are little known. Between 2009 and 2017, a total of 2978 bumble bees were individually collected in 63 localities from 11 provinces of the country. After dissections, the presence of parasitoids was observed in the native bumble bees Bombus pauloensis, B. bellicosus, B. opifex, and B. brasiliensis, plus in the exotic invasive species B. terrestris. A combination of both morphological and molecular analysis based on the COI gene allowed the isolation of two species of Physocephala (Conopidae) and one of Helicobia (Sarcophagidae), expanding their host range and geographic distribution. The second instar larva of Helicobia aurescens is described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high overwinter mortalities in the honey bee population of Apis mellifera have been linked to immunocompromised individuals experiencing nutritional limitations. Larval nutrition plays a crucial role in determining the successful development of adults, making them more susceptible to bacterial diseases when undernourished. One of the main intracellular signalling pathways in the larval immune system against bacterial diseases is the Toll receptor signalling pathway, which activates antimicrobial peptides like defensin. Inadequate nutrition also disrupts the redox balance on A. mellifera individuals, with superoxide dismutase and catalase being the key components of their antioxidant system. Vitellogenin is associated with the mobilization of nutrients in early A. mellifera bee stages. Considering that Saccharomyces cerevisiae is the second most significant by‐product of the brewing industry, it may serve as a valuable raw material. We investigated the impact of feeding larvae with live S. cerevisiae cells on the relative expression of their main immune and antioxidant‐related genes. To assess gene expression, we conducted RT‐qPCR, using RNA extracted from ten larvae per treatment on the seventh day when the feeding trial concluded. Importantly, the presence of S. cerevisiae did not affect larval survival compared to the control group. However, the relative expression of immune‐related gene toll18W and antioxidant‐related gene sod in larvae fed with live S. cerevisiae cells was significantly higher than in larvae that were not fed with them. This suggests that the inclusion of S. cerevisiae in their diet may provide larvae with a nutritional advantage. Additionally, the vitellogenin (vg) gene expression increased in treated larvae compared to the control group, potentially facilitating their access to nutrients and, consequently, enhancing their ability to cope with nutritional stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lotmaria passim (Kinetoplastea) is considered the most prevalent as well as the most virulent trypanosomatid associated to the European honey bee Apis mellifera. We used qPCR to screen for the presence of this parasite in 57 samples from ten Argentinian provinces, and were able to detect its presence throughout most of the country with 41% of the samples testing positive. In a retrospective analysis, we detected L. passim in 73% of honey bee samples from 2006 showing that this flagellate has been widely present in Argentina for at least ~15 years. Additionally, three primer sets for L. passim detection were compared, with the pair that produced smallest PCR product having the best detection capability. Finally, we also found L. passim DNA in 100% (n = 6) of samples of the mite Varroa destructor. The role of this ectoparasite in the lifecycle of Lotmaria , if any, remains unrevealed. Unlabelled Image • The trypanosomatid Lotmaria passim is widely present in Argentina since 2006. • Forty-one percent of the analyzed honey bees were Lotmaria passim -positive. • All analyzed Varroa destructor individuals harbored DNA of Lotmaria passim. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This correction stands to correct the last sentence found in the caption of Figure 2 where it reads, "Three independent experiments were performed and a total of 18 larvae per treatment were analyzed." [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to compare the endometrial gene expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), nodal growth differentiation factor (NODAL), prostaglandin‐endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2), oestrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) and progesterone receptor (PGR) in repeat breeder cows (RBC) and non‐RBC during diestrus. Endometrial samples were collected by cytobrush technique and stored in RNA stabilizing solution at −20°C until RT‐qPCR analysis. Differences in endometrial mRNA expression of selected genes were assessed by ANOVA and simple (r) and the partial correlations (rp) among selected genes were performed. Results demonstrated that mRNA expression of EGFR and NODAL were higher in RBC than in non‐RBC (3 and 25‐fold change, p <.01 and p <.01, respectively), while the mRNA expression of PTGS2 was lower (1.56‐fold change, p <.01). Although there were no differences detected in the mRNA expression of ESR1 and PGR, there was a positive correlation between the expression of ESR1 and EGFR (0.84, p <.05) and a negative correlation between PGR and PTGS2 (−0.49, p <.05). In conclusion, the difference on the endometrial mRNA expression of the genes included in the study between RBC and non‐RBC indicates a deregulation of important mechanisms that are vital to establish a successful pregnancy. Thus, the present study provides useful insight as a base for future studies to elucidate the causes of RBC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy balance is regulated by ghrelin which is a neuroendocrine modulator. Ghrelin is expressed in reproductive organs. However, the role of ghrelin during in vitro maturation (IVM) and bovine preimplantational development is limited. The purpose of this study was to measure the expression of ghrelin (GHRL) and its receptor growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1A (GHS-R1A) mRNA, and determine cumulus oocyte complex (COC) viability after IVM with 0, 20, 40 and 60 pM of ghrelin. Also, pronuclear formation was recorded after in vitro fertilization (IVF). GHRL and GHS-RIA mRNA expression in oocyte and cumulus cells (CCs) was assessed using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Oocyte and CC viability were analyzed with the fluorescein diacetate fluorochrome-trypan blue technique. Pronuclear formation was determined 18 hours after IVF with Hoechst 33342. The results demonstrated that ghrelin mRNA is present in oocyte and CCs before and after 24 hours IVM with all treatments. Ghrelin receptor, GHS-R1A, was only detected in oocytes and CCs after 24 hours IVM with 20, 40 and 60 pM of ghrelin. Oocyte viability was not significantly different (P=0.77) among treatments. However, CC viability was significantly lower (P=0.04) when cOCs were matured with ghrelin (77.65, 72.10, 66.32 and 46.86% for 0, 20, 40, and 60 pM of ghrelin, respectively). The chance of two pronuclei forming were higher (P=0.03) when ghrelin was not be added to the IVM medium. We found that ghrelin negatively impacts CC viability and pronuclear formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many biotic and abiotic stressors impact bees' health, acting as immunosupressors and contribute to colony losses. Thus, the importance of studying the immune response of honey bees is central to develop new strategies aiming to enhance bees' fitness to confront the threats affecting them. If a pathogen breaches the physical and chemical barriers, honey bees can protect themselves from infection with cellular and humoral immune responses which represent a second line of defense. Through a series of correlative studies we have previously reported that abscisic acid (ABA) and nitric oxide (NO) share roles in the same immune defenses of Apis mellifera (A. mellifera). Here we show results supporting that the supplementation of bee larvae's diet reared in vitro with L-Arginine (precursor of NO) or ABA enhanced the immune activation of the granulocytes in response to wounding and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollinators, including solitary bees, are drastically declining worldwide. Among the factors contributing to this decline, bee pathogens and different land uses are of relevance. The link between the gut microbiome composition and host health has been recently studied for social pollinators (e.g. honeybees), whereas the information related to solitary bees is sparse. This work aimed at the characterization of the gut microbiome of the solitary bees Xylocopa augusti, Eucera fervens and Lasioglossum and attempted to correlate the gut microbial composition with the presence and load of different pathogens and land uses. Solitary bees were sampled in different sites (i.e. a farm, a natural reserve, and an urban plant nursery) showing different land uses. DNA was extracted from the gut, 16S rRNA gene amplified and sequenced. Eight pathogens, known for spillover from managed bees to wild ones, were quantified with qPCR. The results showed that the core microbiome profile of the three solitary bees significantly varied in the different species. Pseudomonas was found as the major core taxa in all solitary bees analyzed, whereas Lactobacillus, Spiroplasma and Sodalis were the second most abundant taxa in X. augusti, E. fervens and Lasioglossum, respectively. The main pathogens detected with qPCR were Nosema ceranae, Nosema bombi and Crithidia bombi, although differently abundant in the different bee species and sampling sites. Most microbial taxa did not show any correlation with the land use, apart from Snodgrassella and Nocardioides, showing higher abundances on less anthropized sites. Conversely, the pathogens species and load strongly affected the gut microbial composition, with Bifidobacterium, Apibacter, Serratia, Snodgrassella and Sodalis abundance that positively or negatively correlated with the detected pathogens load. Therefore, pathogens presence and load appear to be the main factor shaping the gut microbiome of solitary bees in Argentina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coprolites are one of the sources of evidence most commonly used in paleoparasitological studies. However, the zoological origin identification is not always possible. Parasites of the genus Eimeria (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) are obligate protozoan which have evolved to exhibit a great diversity of host range, and present strict host specificity. Usually, the identification of Eimeria spp. can be done by morphological characteristics such as size and shape of the oocysts. Moreover, molecular diagnostic methods such as PCR have proven to be very useful methodologies for an accurate taxonomic identification. In recent years, molecular techniques have started to be applied in paleoparasitological studies. Here, we provide the first integrative approach that combine light microscopic studies and ancient DNA (aDNA) in order to detect and identify Eimeria spp. on artiodactyl coprolites recovered from an archeological context from northwestern Patagonia, Argentina. The main objective is to discuss the advantages of complementing these two approaches as a promising tool to identify the zoological origin of coprolites. Furthermore, we provide paleoparasitological data about the presence of Eimeria spp. in coprolites of South American ungulates. Light microscopic studies allowed the identification of oocysts attributed to Eimeria spp. in 13 of the 40 coprolites. Amplification and sequencing of the aDNA ITS1 detected the presence of Eimeria spp. in 5 of the 10 samples, and allowed the taxonomic identification of these sequences as belonging to Eimeria arloingi. Furthermore, the results obtained from cytochrome b gene (Cytb) analysis confirmed the identity of the host as Capra hircus. Results displayed the presence of coccidiosis in goats from historical times. This study highlights that both techniques are complementary and promotes the use of the identification of Eimeria spp. in ancient samples in order to identify the zoological origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bumble bees of the genus Bombus spp. play a key role as effective pollinators in the biodiversity rich Central Andean region; however, parasites and pathogens may negatively influence their abundance and population numbers. In this study, we aimed at verifying the occurrence of these natural enemies in the Andes regions of Bolivia and Peru. Workers and males of Bombus funebris, Bombus opifex and Bombus pauloensis were collected in three localities from highlands at ~1,700 m.a.s.l. Analyses by both optical and molecular techniques revealed the presence of the Apis mellifera filamentous virus (AmFV), the microsporidium Vairimorpha ceranae, the flagellates Crithidia bombi and Lotmaria passim, and five species of mites in the genera Parasitellus Willmann, Pneumolaelaps Berlese, Proctolaelaps Berlese, Tyrophagus Oudemans, and Kuzinia Zachvatkin. Given the potential entry of the allochthonous bumble bee Bombus terrestris to the region, this information is essential to evaluate autochtonous biodiversity conservation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine alphaherpesvirus type 1 (BoAHV-1) is associated with respiratory and reproductive syndromes. Until present the immunologic mechanisms involved in BoAHV-1 abortion are partially known. We studied key elements of the innate immune response in the placentas and fetal lungs from cattle experimentally-inoculated with BoAHV-1. These tissues were analyzed by histopathology. Furthermore, virus identification was performed by qPCR and the expression of the inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin 1-alpha and inflammatory mediators like inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxeganse-2 was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. The viral transplacental infection was confirmed by the detection of BoAHV-1 by qPCR in the placenta and fetal organs, which revealed mild inflammatory lesions. Inducible nitric oxide synthase immunolabelling was high in the lungs of infected fetuses and placentas, as well as for tumor necrosis factor-alpha in the pulmonary parenchyma and cyclooxeganse-2 in fetal annexes. However, the expression of interleukin 1-alpha was weak in these organs. To our knowledge, this is the first study that provides strong evidence of an early immune response to BoAHV-1 infection in the conceptus. Advances in the knowledge of the complex immunological interactions at the feto-maternal unit during BoAHV-1 infection are needed to clarify the pathogenesis of abortion. • BoAHV-1 transplacental infection causes an early immune response at the feto-maternal unit. • BoAHV-1 induces protein expression of iNOS in fetal lung and placenta. • BoAHV-1 induces protein expression of TNFα in fetal lungs and COX-2 in the placenta. • The expression of pro-inflammatory mediators in the placenta by BoAHV-1 might trigger the abortion or control the infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Leptospira spp. DNA by qPCR in aborted bovine fetuses was determined. • Concordance coefficient between qPCR and immuno-fluorescence antibody test was 0.44. • qPCR detection rate (32.4 %) in fetal tissues was higher compared with DFAT (11.8 %). • Ten out of eleven qPCR-positive fetuses had compatible histopathological findings. • qPCR was a rapid and sensitive method for detection of Leptospira in bovine fetuses. Leptospirosis is a disease with major economic impact on livestock industry. The objective of this work was to determine the presence of Leptospira spp. DNA by qPCR in bovine fetuses with presumptive diagnosis of leptospirosis as the cause of abortion. Leptospira spp. DNA was detected by qPCR in 11 out of 34 fetuses. These specimens (10/11) had histopathological findings in hepatic and/or renal tissues compatible with leptospirosis. qPCR detection rate (32.4 %) was higher compared with direct immuno-fluorescence antibody test (DFAT) (11.8 %). The concordance coefficient between both techniques was 0.44. qPCR is a rapid and sensitive technique for the diagnosis of leptospirosis and improved the detection rate in fetal tissues compared with DFAT. Implementation of molecular techniques may increase the accurate detection of leptospirosis as a cause of bovine abortion allowing the application of rapid therapeutic and prophylactics measures in order to reduce the impact of this zoonotic disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic bee paralysis virus (CBPV) is a positive single-stranded RNA virus that exhibits a worldwide distribution. Although the effects of this virus on honeybees' health are well known, its presence in other bee species has not been fully studied. In this work, CBPV was detected in several native bees from Argentina, including Bombus pauloensis, Halictillus amplilobus, Peponapis fervens, and members of the genus Xylocopa. Here, we report for the first time the presence of CBPV in native bees from South America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc (Zn) is a vital trace element for the body and its bioavailability influences numerous reproductive events. However, the mechanisms that regulate Zn homeostasis in the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) are yet to be elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of estradiol 17-beta (E 2), FSH and LH in Zn homeostasis regulation in bovine COC matured in vitro and Zn transporters gene expression. For this purpose, intracellular Zn levels in oocytes and cumulus cells (CC) were assessed using a Zn-specific fluorescent indicator. In addition, gene expression and sequencing of six Zn transporters (Slc39a6, Slc39a8, Slc39a14, Slc30a3, Slc30a7 and Slc30a9) were assessed. Our results demonstrated that the simultaneous presence of E 2 , FSH, and LH during oocyte maturation altered intracellular zinc levels and transporters expression in both oocytes and CC. Transporter's gene expression was different in oocytes and CC, possibly due to cell-specific changes in Zn levels during maturation. The interaction effects of Zn with hormonal treatments influenced the results. This study emphasizes that Slc39a6 is highly sensitive to hormone induction. Overall, the hormonal modulation of Zn homeostasis in the COC was evidenced. Also, a preponderant role of FSH as a modulator of Zn intracellular levels and transporter gene expression is suggested. • Zinc availability is beneficial for follicular growth, oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryo development. • Reproductive hormones affected Zn homeostasis and gene expression of Zn transporters during IVM of bovine COC. • The gene expression of Zn transporters in oocytes and cumulus cells were different. • The role of FSH in the modulation of intracellular Zn levels and transporter gene expression is evident. • The Zn transporter Slc39a6 is highly sensitive to hormonal regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An organic product based on oxalic acid was evaluated for use in Varroa control under spring/summer climatic conditions in Argentina. The formulation consists of four strips made of cellulose impregnated with a solution based on oxalid acid. Forty-eight beehives were used to assess the product efficacy. Residues of the product were also tested in honey, bees, and wax. Each trial had respective control groups without oxalic treatment. At the beginning of the experiment, four strips of the formulation were applied to the colonies belonging to the treated group. Falling mites were counted after 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, and 42 days. After the last count, the strips were removed and colonies received two flumethrin strips for 45 days. Falling mites were counted throughout this period. Average efficacy of the organic product was 93.1 % with low variability. This product is an organic treatment designed for Varroa control during brood presence and represents a good alternative to the synthetic treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary food of adult honey bees ( Apis mellifera) is honey prepared by bees from nectar, provided by plants in order to stimulate the bee's pollination service. Nectar consists of carbohydrates, amino acids and water, as well as other minor compounds whose proportion varies among plant species and whose biological implications in the honey bee physiology require intense research. Several environmental stressors are causing the decline of bee colonies, and thereby, we tried to connect the nutritional quality of bee's diet with the strength of the bee's immune system. The phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) is present in nectar, honey and adult honey bees. It has been demonstrated that ABA stimulates innate immune defences in animal cells. However, the influence of ABA on A. mellifera's health and fitness is unknown. Here, we show that honey bees fed with an ABA supplement in field experiments resulted in (i) the appearance of ABA in larvae and adult bees, (ii) enhanced haemocyte response to non-self recognition, (iii) improved wound healing and granulocyte and plasmatocyte activation and (iv) maximum adult bee population after the winter and increased pesticide tolerance. The results indicate that the naturally occurring compound ABA has a positive influence in honey bee immunity. ABA emerges as a potent booster of immune defence in A. mellifera and may be useful in addressing the colony losses threatening apiculture and pollination service worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (pheo/pgl) are neuroendocrine tumours derived from chromaffin cells. Although mostly benign, up to 26% of pheo/pgl will undergo malignant transformation. Reliable histological signs to differentiate benign pheo/pgl from malignant tumours are currently lacking. Increased IGF-1 R expression has been shown during progression to metastatic phenotypes of several types of cancer. Objective To analyse the distribution and expression of the IGF-1 R in pheo/pgl of different genetic origin and degree of malignancy. Measurements We studied the expression of the IGF-1R protein by immunohistochemistry, in 40 primary tumours from patients with pheo/pgl from different genetic aetiology (11 of 29 metastatic/nonmetastatic diseases). Results We found a strong association between increased expression of IGF-1 R and malignant behaviour regardless of the age at diagnosis and the genetic aetiology. IGF-1 R labelling was mostly weak in primary tumours from patients with nonmetastatic pheo/pgl. Conversely, intense IGF-1 R labelling was predominant in cases of pheo/pgl with confirmed metastatic disease. The risk of metastases was 11·7 times higher if tumour IGF-1 R labelling was intense independently of age at diagnosis. The probability of remaining free of metastases was higher in patients with pheo/pgl scored weak for IGF-1 R at 60 months and more than twofold higher at 120 months of follow-up than in patients with intense IGF-1 R labelling in their primary tumours. Conclusions Our results strongly suggest that IGF-1 R is associated with malignancy in familial pheo/pgl and that IGF-1 R expression in the primary tumour might be a useful tool to detect those patients harbouring pheo/pgl who have an increased risk of metastasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high annual losses of managed honey bees (Apis mellifera) has attracted intensive attention, and scientists have dedicated much effort trying to identify the stresses affecting bees. There are, however, no simple answers; rather, research suggests multifactorial effects. Several works have been reported highlighting the relationship between bees' immunosuppression and the effects of malnutrition, parasites, pathogens, agrochemical and beekeeping pesticides exposure, forage dearth and cold stress. Here we analyze a possible connection between immunity-related signaling pathways that could be involved in the response to the stress resulted from Varroa-virus association and cold stress during winter. The analysis was made understanding the honey bee as a superorganism, where individuals are integrated and interacting within the colony, going from social to individual immune responses. We propose the term "Precision Nutrition" as a way to think and study bees' nutrition in the search for key molecules which would be able to strengthen colonies' responses to any or all of those stresses combined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study expression of dysadherin in human testis, epididymis, and spermatozoa. Design: Prospective study. Setting: Basic research laboratory. Patient(s): Testis, epididymis, and testicular spermatozoa from patients under treatment and semen from volunteer donors. Intervention(s): Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, immunocytochemistry, and Western immunoblotting. Main Outcome Measure(s): Dysadherin messenger RNA (mRNA) analysis in testis, epididymis, and ejaculated spermatozoa, immunohistochemistry of both tissues, Western immunoblotting of tissue/cell extracts, and immunocytochemistry of spermatozoa. Result(s): Dysadherin mRNA was found in testis, epididymis, and ejaculated spermatozoa. Whereas testis and spermatozoa exhibited a distinctive 91-kDa protein form, the epididymis showed a 50-kDa moiety, also found in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Nucleotide sequence analysis revealed >99% homology between testicular and somatic cell mRNA, suggesting differential protein glycosylation. Dysadherin was immunodetected in round spermatids and testicular/ejaculated spermatozoa. It localizes to the acrosomal region and flagellum and colocalized with E-cadherin in the head and with the Na+,K+-ATPase α4 subunit in the flagellum. Conclusion(s): This is the first report on expression of dysadherin in the male gonad and in spermatozoa. Its colocalization with E-cadherin and Na+,K+-ATPase leads us to postulate a role for dysadherin as a modulator of sperm function. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]