Investigation of Feline calicivirus infection in cats with upper respiratory tract disease in Diyarbakir, Turkey / Investigação de infecção por calicivírus felino em gatos com doença do trato respiratório superior na região de Diyarbakir, Turquia

Feline calicivirus is among the most common pathogenic microorganisms in upper respiratory tract disease (URTD) and oral lesions of cats. It leads to stomatitis, oral ulceration, ocular and nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, fever, lameness, anorexia, hypersalivation, pneumonia, respiratory distress, coughing, and depression in infected cats. This study aimed to determine the role of Feline calicivirus (FCV) in cats with the upper respiratory tract disease in the Diyarbakir region, Turkey, to provide treatment for infected cats and contribute to the disease prophylaxis. The study material consisted of 10 cats (control group) considered to be healthy according to the clinical examination and 20 cats with URTD that were not vaccinated against Feline calicivirus infection of different breeds, ages, and genders brought to Dicle University Veterinary Faculty Prof. Dr. Servet SEKIN Polyclinic with URTD. After routine clinical examinations of the animals, oral and conjunctival swabs and blood samples were taken. Hematological and biochemical analyzes of blood samples were performed. Swab samples were analyzed by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method for the diagnosis of the agent. Oral lesions, hypersalivation, ocular and nasal discharge, coughing, and breathing difficulties were seen in clinical examinations of cats with URTD. Feline calicivirus was detected in only one cat's conjunctival swab sample in PCR analyses. As a result, we found that Feline calicivirus infection was present in cats with URTD in the Diyarbakir region, and 5% positivity was found in cats with clinical symptoms according to PCR analysis.(AU)

O calicivírus felino está entre os microrganismos patogênicos mais comuns nas doenças do trato respiratório superior de gatos, determinando estomatites, ulcerações orais, descarga ocular e nasal, conjuntivite, febre, manqueira, anorexia, hipersalivação, pneumonia, distúrbios respiratórios, tosse e depressão. O presente trabalho foi delineado para determinar o papel do calicivírus felino (CVF) em gatos com doenças do trato respiratório superior na região de Diyarbakir, Turquia. Com o objetivo de orientar a prescrição do tratamento para os gatos infectados e contribuir com a profilaxia da doença. O material de estudo consistiu em 10 gatos saudáveis sem qualquer problema de saúde e 20 gatos acometidos por doenças do trato respiratório superior que não haviam sido vacinados contra a infecção pelo calicivírus felino. Os animais de diferentes raças, idades e gêneros foram encaminhados para a Universidade de Dicle, na Faculdade de Veterinária, na policlínica Professor Dr. Servet Sekin. Após o exame clínico de rotina dos animais, foram colhidos swabs orais e da conjuntiva e amostras de sangue. Análises hematológicas e bioquímicas das amostras de sangue foram realizadas e os swabs foram analisados pelo método da reação em cadeia pela polimerase (PCR) para diagnóstico do agente. Nos gatos infectados foram constatadas: lesões orais, hipersalivação, descargas oculares e nasais, tosse e dificuldade respiratória. O calicivírus felino foi detectado pela técnica de PCR no swab conjuntival de apenas um gato. A conclusão obtida foi que a infecção pelo calicivírus felino foi detectada pela técnica de PCR na região de Diyarbakir, Turquia, em gatos com doença do trato respiratório superior com a frequência de 5%.(AU)

High occurrence of felid alphaherpesvirus 1 and feline calicivirus in domestic cats from southern Brazil / Alta ocorrência de alphaherpesvirus felideo e calicivirus felino em gatos domésticos no Sul do Brasil

Felid alphaherpesvirus 1 (FeHV-1) and feline calicivirus (FCV) affect cats worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of occurrence of FeHV-1 and FCV in cats with clinical signs of respiratory, oral and/or ocular disease. Samples were collected from cats cared for in veterinary ambulatory and clinics and submitted to molecular detection and viral isolation. Of the 49 cats evaluated, 45 (92%) were positive for at least one of the viruses; 82% (40/49) were positive for FeHV-1 and 41% (20/49) for FCV. Of these, 31% (15/49) were coinfection cases. For FeHV-1, 45% (18/40) of the cats tested were positive from the collection of eye swab, and the same percentage (9/20) was obtained for the FCV by the oral swab. FeHV-1 and/or FCV were isolated in 35% (17/49) of the samples. The main clinical sign observed was ocular secretion in 71% (35/49) of cats, characterized as mild serous, purulent or serosanguineous, and in some cases associated with ocular injury and marked chemosis. Our findings demonstrate the high occurrence of FeHV-1 and FCV in domestic cats in southern Brazil and indicate that measures should be implemented to improve the diagnostic, prevention and management against of these important diseases.(AU)

Alphaherpesvírus felídeo 1 (FeHV-1) e calicivírus felino (FCV) afetam gatos mundialmente. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar a frequência de ocorrência de FeHV-1 e FCV em gatos com sinais clínicos de doença respiratória, oral e/ou ocular. Amostras foram coletadas de gatos atendidos em ambulatório e clínicas veterinárias e submetidas à detecção molecular e isolamento viral. Dos 49 gatos avaliados, 45 (92%) foram positivos para ao menos um dos vírus; 82% (40/49) foram positivos para o FeHV-1 e 41% (20/49) para o FCV. Destes, 31% (15/49) foram casos de coinfecção. Para o FeHV-1, 45% (18/40) dos gatos foram positivos na coleta do swab ocular, e o mesmo percentual (9/20) foi obtido para o FCV a partir do swab oral. FeHV-1 e/ou FCV foram isolados em 35% (17/49) das amostras. O principal sinal clínico observado foi secreção ocular em 71% (35/49) dos gatos, caracterizada como serosa, purulenta ou serossanguinolenta e, em alguns casos, associada à lesão e quemose. Nossos resultados demonstram a alta ocorrência de FeHV-1 e FCV em gatos domésticos na região Sul do Brasil e indicam que devem ser implementadas medidas para melhorar o diagnóstico, a prevenção e o manejo contra essas importantes doenças.(AU)

Feline chronic gingivostomatitis with calicivirus infection: case report / Gengivostomatite crônica felina com infecção por calicivírus: relato de caso

Feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS) is an oral inflammatory condition that frequently affects felines. Its etiology is not well defined, but several viral agents are thought to be involved. Several therapeutic protocols have been described, yet treatment response is often variable, and the therapeutic success is transient with an unpredictable duration. Therefore, the therapeutic strategy needs to be tailored for each patient. This work relates a case characterized by viral involvement in its etiopathogenesis providing an alternative to the most widely-used methods that so often frustrate both veterinary doctors and pet owners.(AU)

A gengivostomatite crônica felina (FCGS) é uma condição inflamatória oral que frequentemente afeta felinos. A sua etiologia não está bem definida, mas acredita-se que vários agentes virais possam estar envolvidos. Muitos protocolos terapêuticos têm sido descritos, no entanto, a resposta ao tratamento é frequentemente variável e o sucesso terapêutico é transitório com uma duração imprevisível. Portanto, a estratégia terapêutica precisa ser adaptada para cada paciente. O presente trabalho propõe a caracterização do envolvimento viral na etiopatogenia da doença como uma alternativa aos métodos mais amplamente utilizados, que muitas vezes frustram médicos veterinários e os donos de animais de estimação.(AU)

Molecular epidemiological characteristics of Human Calicivirus in Kunming city, 2014-2015 / 中华实验和临床病毒学杂志

Objective@#To investigate the molecular epidemiological characteristics of Human Calicivirus (HuCV) infection among children less than 5 years in Kunming city, Yunnan province, it might be provide effective evident for prevention and control the diarrhea related with HuCV infection.@*Methods@#Four sentinel hospitals were recruited in the study from Kunming city, Yunnan province, 850 diarrhea cases and 170 non-diarrhea subject were recruited in this study from 2014 to 2015. RT-PCR was performed to screen HuCV infection, and gene sequencing was used to ensure positive infection subtypes and genotypes.@*Results@#The positive rate of HuCV was higher in children with diarrhea than in non-diarrhea children (11.5%, 98/85; 4.7%, 8/170, χ2=7.083, P=0.008), and the positive rate of Norovirus (NoV) GII was higher in non-diarrhea children were (11.1%, 94/85; 4.7%, 8/170, χ2=6.353, P=0.012). There was no significant difference in the positive rate of NoV GI (0.1%, 1/850; 0.0%, 0/170, P=0.833) and Sappovirus (0.4%, 3/850; 0.0%, 0/170, P=0.578) in diarrhea children and non-diarrhea children. GII.P4 (10%, n=102) was the most important genotype of NoV GII detected in diarrhea and non-diarrhea individuals. Despite no significant difference in Norovirus GII infection between different age groups (χ2=0.038, P=0.846) and sex(χ2=0.620, P=0.733), infection rate of NoV GII varied with season (χ2=9.867, P=0.020), having close relationship with diarrhea in autumn (15.6%), primarily caused by GII.4 and GII.12 genotype (χ2=8.881, P=0.031; χ2=7.917, P=0.039).@*Conclusions@#NoV GII diarrhea had higher epidemic rate, which was caused by multiple genotypes, GII.P4 was a dominant genotype, and was a major pathogenic agent of diarrhea in infants f in Kunming city.

Structure and function of human norovirus nonstructural proteins / 中华实验和临床病毒学杂志

Norovirus (NoV), a single stranded RNA virus, is the major causative agent of the global acute gastroenteritis in humans, and it has drawn more and more attention. Because of the lack of appropriate animal models and in vitro cell culture models, people have studied and understood more about the epidemiology and genetic variation of human viruses. The functional characteristics of the viral encoded protein and the pathogenesis of virus infection are poorly understood. In this paper, we summarize the progress in studies on characteristics of non-structural protein of norovirus, and hope that with the recent breakthrough in human cell culture model of human norovirus, it can be used as a tool for further research on the function of human norovirus non-structural protein.

Etiological study on cases with viral diarrhea in Ningxia during 2011 / 中华流行病学杂志

Objective To investigate the etiological characteristics of human rotavirus (HRV),human calicivirus (HuCV),human astrovirus (HAstV) and human enteral adenovirus (HAdV)in Ningxia province during 2011. Methods Stool specimen was collected from acute diarrhea case of Ningxia during 2011. HRV was detected by ELISA and serotype/genotype identified on those RT-PCR positive specimens. HuCV,HAstV and HAdV were detected by RT-PCR. Results In this study,a total of 690 specimens were detected,with the infection rates of HRV,HuCV,HAstV and HAdV as 2.17%,21.74%,3.19%and 6.52%,respectively. Co-infections were found in 4.20%of all the samples being tested. Among 15 HRV positive cases,serotypes G1,G3 and P[4]were the most predominant strains. Conclusion Children who were under 2 years of age were the majority among patients infected by diarrhea viruses while HuCV was recognized as the main pathogen responsible for the viral diarrhea casses in Ningxia,2011.

Etiological study on cases with viral diarrhea in Ningxia during 2011 / 中华流行病学杂志

Objective To investigate the etiological characteristics of human rotavirus (HRV),human calicivirus (HuCV),human astrovirus (HAstV) and human enteral adenovirus (HAdV)in Ningxia province during 2011. Methods Stool specimen was collected from acute diarrhea case of Ningxia during 2011. HRV was detected by ELISA and serotype/genotype identified on those RT-PCR positive specimens. HuCV,HAstV and HAdV were detected by RT-PCR. Results In this study,a total of 690 specimens were detected,with the infection rates of HRV,HuCV,HAstV and HAdV as 2.17%,21.74%,3.19%and 6.52%,respectively. Co-infections were found in 4.20%of all the samples being tested. Among 15 HRV positive cases,serotypes G1,G3 and P[4]were the most predominant strains. Conclusion Children who were under 2 years of age were the majority among patients infected by diarrhea viruses while HuCV was recognized as the main pathogen responsible for the viral diarrhea casses in Ningxia,2011.

Atividade antiviral do extrato de própolis contra o calicivírus felino, adenovírus canino 2 e vírus da diarréia viral bovina / Antiviral activity of propolis extracts against feline calicivirus, canine adenovirus 2, and bovine viral diarrhea virus

Dentre as propriedades biológicas da própolis, a atividade antimicrobiana tem merecido destacada atenção. Neste artigo, descreve-se a atividade antiviral de dois extratos etanólicos de própolis (EP1 e EP2) frente aos vírus: calicivírus felino (FCV), adenovírus canino tipo 2 (CAV-2) e vírus da diarréia viral bovina (BVDV). Um dos extratos (EP1) foi obtido por extração etanólica de própolis obtida da região central do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul e o segundo (EP2), obtido comercialmente de uma empresa de Minas Gerais. A análise dos extratos de própolis através da cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (CLAE) identificou a presença de flavonóides como: rutina, quercetina e ácido gálico. A atividade antiviral bem como a citotoxicidade dos extratos aos cultivos celulares foram avaliadas através do MTT [3- (4,5 dimetiltiazol-2yl)-2-5-difenil-2H tetrazolato de bromo]. Ambos os extratos evidenciaram atividade antiviral frente ao BVDV e CAV-2 quando acrescidos ao cultivo celular anteriormente à inoculação viral. Os extratos foram menos efetivos contra o FCV em comparação aos resultados obtidos com os outros vírus, e a atividade antiviral neste caso foi observada apenas quando a própolis estava presente após a inoculação viral. O extrato obtido no laboratório (EP1) apresentou valores mais altos de índice de seletividade (IS=CC50/ CE50), quando comparado à outra amostra (EP2). Em resumo, a própolis apresentou atividade antiviral frente a três diferentes vírus, o que a torna alvo para o desenvolvimento de novos compostos naturais com atividade antiviral.

Propolis is a resinous substance produced by bees for which several biological activities have been attributed. In this article, the antiviral activity of two propolis extracts was tested against bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2), and feline calicivirus (FCV). One of the extracts was obtained by ethanolic extraction of propolis from the Santa Maria (RS) region, while the other was bought from a Minas Gerais industry. The high efficiency liquid cromatography (HPLC) analysis detected the presence of some flavonoids like rutin, quercetin, and gallic acid. The MTT test was applied in order to detect the citotoxicity and also the antiviral activity. Both extracts showed antiviral activity against BVDV and CAV-2 when incubated with the cell cultures before viral inoculation. The extracts were less effective against FCV comparing to the results for the other viruses and, the antiviral activity was observed only when the própolis was present after virus inoculation The extract obtained in the lab showed the highest selectivity index (SI= CC50/ EC50). Thus, propolis showed antiviral activity against three different viruses, making it a target for the development of new natural compounds with antiviral activity.

Clinical Manifestations of Norovirus Infection in Korean Pediatric Cancer Patients / 소아감염

PURPOSE: Norovirus infection, a common cause of community-acquired gastroenteritis, can also lead to severe illness in immunocompromised patients. We investigated clinical manifestations of norovirus infection in pediatric cancer patients. METHODS: Stool specimens were collected from pediatric patients with gastrointestinal symptoms between November 2008 and September 2009 at Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Korea. Norovirus infection was identified by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). A retrospective chart review was performed in pediatric cancer patients who were diagnosed with norovirus infection. RESULTS: Ten patients were diagnosed with norovirus infection by RT-PCR in stool samples. The median age was 0.83 years (range 0.25-5.5 years) and the male to female ratio was 1.5:1 (6 males and 4 females). Underlying diseases were hematologic malignancies (4/10, 40%), neuroblastoma (4/10, 40%), and brain tumors (2/10, 20%). Three patients were infected before hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) and four patients after HCT. All patients had diarrhea (10/10, 100%), with a median frequency of diarrhea of 8.5 times/day (range 4-22 times/day). Median virus shedding duration was 72.5 days (range 19-299 days). Four patients with pneumatosis intestinalis were conservatively treated with bowel rest and total parenteral nutrition. One patient with severe diarrhea and bloody stool had concomitant chronic gut graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Norovirus infection-related mortality was not observed. CONCLUSION: Norovirus infection can cause significant clinical manifestations with prolonged viral shedding in immunocom-promised patients. Norovirus should be considered in pediatric cancer patients with severe gastrointestinal symptoms.

Detección molecular mediante RT-PCR de calicivirus y enterovirus en niños menores de 6 años con síndrome diarreico / Calicivirus and enterovirus molecular detection through RT-PCR in children under 5 years old with diarrheal syndrome

Mundialmente, la diarrea es una de las causas más importantes de morbi-mortalidad en la población. En Venezuela, se reportan anualmente cerca de 480.000 consultas y 706 fallecimientos a causa de diarreas, de las cuales el 32% se registran en el Zulia. Entre los virus con capacidad patogénica involucrados en cuadros diarreicos se encuentran los calicivirus y enterovirus. Con el objetivo de evaluar la prevalencia de estos agentes virales en el municipio Maracaibo, se colectaron 150 muestras de heces diarreicas de niños menores de 6 años, en las que se analizó la presencia de calicivirus y enterovirus mediante RT-PCR. Se observó una mayor prevalencia de infección por enterovirus (31,3%), lo que indica la existencia de posibles problemas de higiene y/o contaminación del agua. Además, se evidenció disminución de la infección por enterovirus con el aumento de la edad, posiblemente por la adquisición de anticuerpos por exposiciones previas al virus. La prevalencia de calicivirus en la población fue baja (3,0%), considerándolos así casos aislados. La ausencia de este virus durante el primer año de vida se ve favorecida por la protección inmunitaria que confiere la alimentación con leche materna. El presente estudio indica que los enterovirus son agentes etiológicos importantes de diarreas en la población infantil estudiada.

Worldwide, diarrhea is one of the most important morbility-mortality causes in the general population. In Venezuela, there are annual reports of around 480,000 consultations and 706 deaths due to diarrhea, 32% of which are registered in Zulia State. Calicivirus and enterovirus are among the viruses with pathogenic capacity involved in diarrheal episodes. With the purpose of evaluating the prevalence of these viruses at the Maracaibo Municipality, we collected 150 diarrheal feces samples from children under 5 years old, and calicivirus and enterovirus presence was determined through RT-PCR. There was a greater prevalence of enterovirus infections (31.3%), which indicates the probable existence of hygiene problems and/or water contamination. There was also evidence of a decrease of enterovirus contamination with age, possible due to the development of antibodies during previous exposure to the virus. Calicivirus prevalence in this population was low (2.9%), and they were considered as isolated cases. Absence of this virus during the first year of life is favored by the immunological protection conferred by maternal breast-feeding. The present study indicates that enteroviruses are important diarrheal etiologic agents in the child population studied.

Gastroenteric virus detection in fecal samples from women in Goiânia, State of Goiás, Brazil / Detecção de vírus gastroentéricos em amostras fecais de mulheres em Goiânia, Estado de Goiás, Brasil

INTRODUCTION: This was a prospective study that included women seen in the obstetrics and gynecology sector of Hospital das Clínicas, Federal University of Goiás, in Goiânia, State of Goiás, with the aim of detecting rotaviruses, adenoviruses, caliciviruses and astroviruses. Eighty-four women participated in the study and from these, 314 fecal samples were collected. Out of all of the women, 29 were seropositive for HIV and 55 were seronegative, and 45 and 39 were pregnant and non-pregnant, respectively. METHODS: Fecal samples were collected from each woman once every two months over the period from July 2006 to June 2007, and they were screened for rotaviruses by means of polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and immunoenzymatic assays, for caliciviruses and astroviruses by means of RT-PCR and for adenovirus by means of immunoenzymatic assays. The astroviruses were genotyped using nested PCR. RESULTS: Among the 84 patients, 19 (22.6 percent) were positive for either calicivirus (14/19) or astrovirus (6/19), while one women was positive for both viruses in fecal samples collected on different occasions. Most of the positive samples were collected during the months of July and August (astrovirus) and September and October (calicivirus). None of the samples analyzed was positive for rotavirus or adenovirus. Gastroenteric viruses were detected in 13/19 (68.4 percent) of the pregnant women, whether HIV-seropositive or not. CONCLUSIONS: The results from the present study showed that neither pregnancy nor HIV-seropositive status among the women increased the risk of infection by any of the gastroenteric viruses studied. This study presents data on gastroenteric virus detection among pregnant and/or HIV-positive women.

INTRODUÇÃO: Este foi um estudo prospectivo que incluiu mulheres atendidas no setor de obstetrícia e ginecologia do Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Goiás, em Goiânia, Estado de Goiás com o objetivo de detectar rotavírus, adenovírus, calicivírus e astrovírus. Oitenta e quatro mulheres participaram no estudo e destas, 314 amostras fecais foram coletadas. Do total de mulheres, 29 eram soropositivas para HIV, 55 soronegativas, 45 e 39 estavam grávidas e não-grávidas, respectivamente. MÉTODOS: Amostras fecais foram coletadas de cada mulher uma vez a cada dois meses pelo período de Julho-2006 a Junho-2007, foram triadas para rotavírus pela metodologia de eletroforese em gel de poliacrilamida (EGPA) e através de ensaio imunoenzimático (EIE), para calicivírus e astrovírus por RT-PCR e por EIE para adenovírus. Os astrovírus foram genotipados por Nested-PCR. RESULTADOS: De 84 pacientes, 19 (22,6 por cento) foram positivas para calicivírus (14/19) ou astrovírus (6/19), sendo que uma mulher foi positiva para ambos os vírus em amostras fecais coletadas em diferentes ocasiões. A maioria das amostras positivas foi coletada no período de Julho a Agosto (astrovírus) e de Setembro a Outubro (calicivírus). Nenhuma das amostras analisadas foi positiva para rotavírus ou adenovírus. Os vírus gastroentéricos foram detectados em 13/19 (68,4 por cento) mulheres grávidas, as quais eram HIV-soropositivas ou não. CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados do presente estudo mostram que nem o estado gravídico das mulheres nem a soropositividade para HIV aumentaram o risco para a infecção por nenhum dos vírus gastroentéricos estudados. Este estudo apresenta dados sobre a detecção de vírus gastroentéricos entre mulheres grávidas e/ou HIV-positivas.

Detection of caliciviruses associated with acute infantile gastroenteritis in Salvador, an urban center in Northeast Brazil

Acute gastroenteritis caused by viruses is one of the leading causes of infantile morbidity. The aim of the present study was to investigate the presence of human caliciviruses of the genera norovirus and sapovirus in children up to 3 years of age with acute gastroenteritis from low-income communities in the city of Salvador, Brazil. This study is an extension of previous work carried out to establish the profile of the most prevalent enteric pathogens present in these communities. In this report, 139 fecal samples, collected from July 2001 to January 2002 were analyzed by RT-PCR and 13 (9 percent) were positive for human caliciviruses. By sequencing, seven isolates were characterized as norovirus genogroup GII and one as sapovirus genotype GII/1. Sequencing of the previously detected group-A rotaviruses and human astroviruses was also performed and revealed the circulation of rotavirus group A genotypes G1P[8] and G9P[8], and human astrovirus genotypes 6, 7, and 8. No mixed infection was observed. Community-based studies provide geographically representative information on disease burden. However, there are only a few reports in developing countries concerning the genotypes of the most important gastroenteric viruses detected in such communities. The present findings demonstrate the wide diversity of genotypes of the most important viruses responsible for acute gastroenteritis circulating in low-income communities.

Caracterización molecular de calicivirus aislados de brotes de gastroenteritis ocurridos en la Argentina durante los años 2005 y 2006 / Molecular characterization of calicivirus strains detected in outbreaks of gastroenteritis occurring in Argentina during 2005 and 2006

Con el objetivo de determinar la incidencia de calicivirus, rotavirus y astrovirus en brotes de gastroenteritis ocurridos en diversas regiones de la Argentina durante los años 2005 y 2006, se analizaron muestras de materia fecal provenientes de 7 brotes con resultado de coprocultivo negativo. Para el diagnóstico de rotavirus se utilizó un ELISA comercial, mientras que para el diagnóstico de calicivirus y astrovirus se utilizó el método de RT-PCR. De las 74 muestras analizadas, 20 fueron positivas para calicivirus, 17 para rotavirus y una para astrovirus. No se identificaron infecciones virales mixtas. En 5 muestras positivas para calicivirus se secuenció una región del gen de la polimerasa; 4 de ellas correspondieron al género Norovirus y una al género Sapovirus. El análisis filogenético de las muestras secuenciadas determinó la presencia de norovirus de los genogrupos GI y GII; dentro de este último, se identificaron los genotipos GII-4, GII-b y GII-17. El análisis de la muestra en la cual se identificó sapovirus reveló la presencia del genotipo GI-1. Este estudio representa una continuación del análisis epidemiológico molecular de calicivirus asociados a brotes de gastroenteritis iniciado en 2004 y constituye la primera comunicación de la circulación de norovirus del genotipo GII-17 en la Argentina.

In order to determine the incidence of calicivirus, rotavirus and astrovirus in outbreaks of gastroenteritis occurring in different regions of Argentina during 2005 and 2006, fecal samples from seven nonbacterial outbreaks were analyzed. A commercial ELISA was used for rotavirus detection, while RT-PCRs were used for calicivirus and astrovirus. Of the 74 samples analyzed, 20 were calicivirus positive, 17 were rotavirus positive and one was astrovirus positive. No mixed infections were detected. A partial region of the RdRp gene was sequenced in five calicivirus positive-samples; 4 of them belonged to Norovirus genus and one to Sapovirus genus. The phylogenetic analysis of norovirus-positive-samples revealed the presence of strains from genogroups GI and GII; genotypes GII- 4, GII-b and GII-17 were identified within the latter. Phylogenetic the sapovirus-positive-sample revealed the presence of genotype GI-1. This study represents a follow-up of the of molecular epidemiology analysis of calicivirus associated to gastroenteritis outbreaks that have been carried out by our group since 2004, and constitutes the first report of the circulation of genotype GII-17 in Argentina.

Adenovirus, calicivirus and astrovirus detection in fecal samples of hospitalized children with acute gastroenteritis from Campo Grande, MS, Brazil

We analyzed fecal samples from hospitalized children up to three years of age with acute gastroenteritis at Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, from May 2000-January 2004. Astrovirus and calicivirus were detected by Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction and adenovirus was detected using the Rotavirus and Adenovirus combined immunoenzyme assay. Astrovirus, adenovirus and calicivirus were detected at rates of 3.1 percent, 3.6 percent and 7.6 percent, respectively. These results re-emphasize the need for the establishment of regional vigilance systems to evaluate the impact of enteric viruses on viral gastroenteritis.

Detection and phylogenetic analysis of porcine enteric calicivirus, genetically related to the Cowden strain of sapovirus genogroup III, in Brazilian swine herds

Sapovirus of the Caliciviridae family is an important agent of acute gastroenteritis in children and piglets. The Sapovirus genus is divided into seven genogroups (G), and strains from the GIII, GVI and GVII are associated with infections in swine. Despite the high prevalence in some countries, there are no studies related to the presence of porcine enteric sapovirus infections in piglets in Brazil. In the present study, 18 fecal specimens from piglets up to 28 days were examined to determine the presence of sapovirus genome by RT-PCR assay, using primers designed to amplify a 331 bp segment of the RNA polymerase gene. In 44.4 percent (8/18) of fecal samples, an amplified DNA fragment was obtained. One of these fragments was sequenced and submitted to molecular and phylogenetic analysis. This analysis revealed high similarity, with nucleotides (87 percent) and amino acids (97.8 percent), to the Cowden strain, the GIII prototype of porcine enteric calicivirus. This is the first description of sapovirus in Brazilian swine herds.

O sapovírus classificado na família Caliciviridae é um importante causador de gastroenterite aguda em crianças e leitões. O gênero Sapovirus é dividido em sete genogrupos (G), sendo que as estirpes dos GIII, GVI e GVII estão associadas com infecção em suínos. Apesar da alta prevalência da infecção em alguns países, ainda não existem estudos referentes à presença do calicivírus entérico suíno nos rebanhos brasileiros. No presente estudo 18 amostras de fezes de leitões com até 28 dias foram avaliadas pela RT-PCR para a presença do genoma do sapovírus, utilizando os primers desenvolvidos para amplificar um segmento de 331 pb do gene da RNA polimerase viral. Em 44,4 por cento (8/18) das amostras foi amplificado um fragmento de DNA. Um desses amplicons foi seqüenciado e pela análise molecular e filogenética foi verificada similaridade de 87 por cento em nucleotídeos e 97,8 por cento em aminoácidos com a estirpe Cowden, protótipo do GIII. Esta é a primeira descrição do sapovírus em rebanhos suínos brasileiros.

Prevalence of feline herpesvirus 1, feline calicivirus and Chlamydophila felis in clinically normal cats at a Korean animal shelter

The prevalence of feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1), feline calicivirus (FCV), and Chlamydophila (C.) felis was studied in cats of an animal shelter in Korea. Total 78 cats without ocular and upper respiratory tract disease were examined. Specimens were obtained from ocular conjunctiva and oropharynx. Using multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and reverse transcription PCR, three pathogens were simultaneously detected. In examined 78 cats, 49 (63%) cats were positive for FHV-1. However, all specimens were negative for C. felis and FCV. In conclusion, many cats recovered from FHV-1 infection remain subclinical carriers in shelter environment.

Estudio de la infección por rotavirus y calicivirus en neonatos de la Maternidad "Concepción Palacios" de Caracas / Study of rotavirus and calicivirus infections in neonates from the Maternity Hospital "Concepción Palacios", Caracas

En un estudio realizado en 1984 en la Maternidad "Concepción Palacios", Pérez-Schael y col. detectaron excreción asintomática de rotavirus en el 56% de los recién nacidos evaluados. El objetivo de este trabajo fue estudiar la infección por rotavirus en neonatos de la Maternidad y comparar datos con aquellos obtenidos anteriormente. Además, se investigó la presencia de calicivirus en dicha población. Entre agosto y diciembre de 2004, se recolectaron 307 muestras de heces provenientes de 215 neonatos sanos. Para la detección de los agentes virales se utilizaron ensayos tipo ELISA comerciales y no comerciales. Estos ensayos identificaron como positivas a rotavirus y calicivirus a un total de 14 y 58 muestras, respectivamente. Sin embargo, al realizar pruebas para corroborar la presencia de rotavirus por microscopia electrónica, EGPA y RT-PCR y para calicivirus por RT-PCR, ninguna de las muestras señaladas como positivas pudo ser confirmada. Estos resultados sugieren la no-circulación tanto de rotavirus como de calicivirus dentro de la Maternidad. Es posible que la interrupción de la transmisión de rotavirus dentro de la Institución pueda deberse a cambios en el manejo del par madre-neonato introducidos en la Maternidad desde 1995, promovidos por la OMS y UNICEF.

In a study carried out in 1984 at the "Concepción Palacios" Maternity Hospital, Perez-Schael et al (J Med Virol 1984, 14:127) detected asymptomatic excretion of rotavirus in 56% of the neonates evaluated. The purpose of this work was to study rotavirus infection in neonates at the Maternity Hospital and compare the new data with those previously obtained. We also studied calicivirus presence in said population. Between August and December 2004, 307 feces samples were collected from 215 healthy neonates. Commercial and non commercial ELISA type assays were used for detection of viral agents. These assays identified a total of 14 and 58 samples as rotavirus and calicivirus positive respectively. Nevertheless, when carrying out tests to corroborate rotavirus presence with electron microscopy, EGPA and RT-PCR, and for calicivirus with RT-PCR, none of the samples previously shown as positive could be confirmed. These results suggest the non-circulation of both rotavirus and calicivirus within the Maternity Hospital. It is possible that the interruption of rotavirus transmission within this Institution could be due to changes in the management of the mother-child unit promoted by WHO and UNICEF, and introduced at the Maternity Hospital since 1995.

Detection of Viral Antigens in Stool Using EIA in Hospitalized Children and Clinical Implication / 대한소아소화기영양학회지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to detect viral coproantigens in children who were hospitalized with acute diarrhea and to compare its association with clinical symptoms. METHODS: Seventy-four stool samples were collected from children admitted to Ewha Mokdong Hospital from March 1996 to December 1999. The samples were frozen and analyzed for rotavirus, adenovirus, enterovirus, astrovirus, and calicivirus by enzyme immunoassay (EIA) with monoclonal antibody. 53 stool samples were collected from patients with diarrhea (diarrheal group) and 21 stool samples from patients hospitalized for reasons other than diarrhea (control group). Clinical features and laboratory findings were reviewed in both groups. RESULTS: Among 74 stool samples, virus antigens were detected in 60 samples. Of the 60 virus-positive stool samples, 47 enterovirus, 26 rotavirus, 16 adenovirus, 11 astrovirus, and 11 calicivirus antigens were detected by EIA. Of the 60 virus-positive stool samples, 28 samples have one viral antigen, 30 samples have 2 or more viral antigens, and 2 samples showed a simultaneous infection of Salmonella group B and enterovirus. There was no relationship between the detected virus and clinical features. CONCLUSION: In this study, viral coproantigen and clinical symptoms were not associated. In the future, further larger scale studies are necessary.

Acute gastroenteritis caused by calicivirus in childhood / 감염

BACKGROUND: Rotavirus is the most common agent of acute gastroenteritis in childhood worldwide. Besides rotavirus, calicivirus is well known another important cause of acute gastroenteritis in childhood. However, caliciviral acute gastroenteritis has not been studied well in Korea. Here we report clinical manifestations of caliciviral acute gastroenteritis confirmed by RT-PCR. METHODS: Eleven patients who were admitted to Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine from April 1998 to April 1999, were involved in this study. RNA was isolated from the stool of the patients. RT-PCR was done. Electrophoresis with the PCR products was done. Viruses were identified by electron microscope. Medical records were reviewed retrospectively. RESULTS: Infections occurred below 7 years of age in almost all patients. No sex predominance was found. The clinical manifestations were those of acute gastroenteritis, such as diarrhea, vomiting, poor oral intake, fever, nausea, or abdominal pain. Symptoms were less severe compared to rotaviral infection. CONCLUSION: In case of viral gastroenteritis caused not by rotavirus, we should keep in mind that calicivirus is a possible cause.

The new genotypic human calicivirus isolated in Seoul

A new type of human calicivirus (HuCV) showing the classic cup-shaped surface morphology was identified in the stool sample from a child with symptoms of acute gastroenteritis in Seoul, Korea (SK virus). Genomic RNA was extracted directly from the stool sample, and the nucleotide sequence of 3.2 kb of the 3' end of SK virus was determined from cDNA. This region spanned sequences from the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RDRP) region in the open reading frame 1 (ORF1) to the 3' poly A tail. The non-structural and capsid protein coding sequences were fused in a single ORF as observed in Manchester type (Genogroup III). However, ORF2 of Manchester virus was missing in SK virus. In RDRP region, SK virus showed amino acid and nucleotide identities of 74-75% and 68-69% respectively, with those of Manchester virus, while showed 34-46% and 55-60% identities respectively with those of other human caliciviruses. However, capsid protein of SK virus showed a partial (29-46%) amino acid identity with those of other caliciviruses including Manchester type. The closest resemblance in amino acid (97-99%) and nucleotide sequence (85-86%) identities were found in RDRP region with Vanderbijlpark and Pretoria isolates recently found in South Africa. These results suggest that SK virus together with Vanderbijlpark and Pretoria isolates belong to a new type different from Manchester virus.