Marielle M. Berto, Raphael de Campos Castilho, Aline D. Tassi
et al.
A new species of <i>Proctolaelaps</i> (Acari: Mesostigmata: Melicharidae), <i>Proctolaelaps ambrosiae</i> sp. nov., is described from south Florida, USA, based on adult females found in phoretic association with ambrosia beetles infesting avocado (<i>Persea americana</i>) trees. Mites were removed from adults of <i>Xyleborinus saxesenii</i> and <i>Xyleborus affinis</i> (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae: Xyleborini) captured in flight and were also collected from beetle galleries in infested avocado wood. The new species is diagnosed based on a combination of morphological characters and molecular markers (nuclear 28S rRNA and ITS, and mitochondrial COI), supporting its distinctiveness from related taxa. This study represents the first formal description of a <i>Proctolaelaps</i> species documented in phoretic association with xyleborine ambrosia beetles and their galleries, contributing to the knowledge of melicharid diversity in woody microhabitats and providing baseline data for future ecological and applied studies of ambrosia beetle systems in avocado.
H3K4me3, a well-established histone modification associated with active promoters, plays a critical role in orchestrating gene expression programs that govern mammary gland development and lactation. In this study, we present the first comprehensive epigenomic profiling of H3K4me3 modifications during mammary gland development in Yili horses using Cleavage Under Targets and Tagmentation (CUT&Tag) and RNA sequencing. Mammary gland tissues were collected from two developmental stages—early lactation and peak lactation. A total of 393 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between two groups, among which 72 DEGs (54 upregulated H3K4me3 targets and 18 downregulated targets) were directly regulated by H3K4me3. KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that these DEGs were involved in ECM–receptor interaction, focal adhesion, the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and the calcium signaling pathway. In these pathways, five genes were identified as potential regulators of mammary gland development. Among these, PTGES, COL1A1, PDGFRB, and RYR1 exhibited consistent upregulation at both the transcriptomic and chromatin levels, whereas PRKAG3 showed significant downregulation. These findings offer novel insights into the epigenetic regulation of lactation in horses and lay a theoretical foundation for improving milk production traits through targeted molecular breeding strategies.
The genus Hatitia Brescovit, 1997 includes six species, the type species Hatitia yhuaia Brescovit, 1997, distributed in Peru, H. canchaque Brescovit, 1997, from Peru and Ecuador and H. defolonguei (Berland, 1913), H. perrieri (Berland, 1913) and H. riveti (Berland, 1913) all from Ecuador and H. sericiea (L. Koch, 1866) recorded in Colombia. The analysis of recent material from Hatitia specimens has allowed the records of Hatitia yhuaia to be expanded and to describe five additional species: H. zarate sp. nov. from Peru; H. winayhuayna sp. nov. from Peru and Bolivia; H. cajuata sp. nov. from Bolivia; H. oxapampa sp. nov. and H. machiguenga sp. nov. known only from Peru. Furthermore, Anyphaena mollicoma Keyserling, 1879 is considered a junior synonym of Hatitia sericea. As a result, a new emended diagnosis of the genus is presented. Additionally, complementary morphological data of Hatitia yhuaia are documented.
Anggraini Kartika Sari Prita, Amelia Kharina, Cahyani Frameiza
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that can attack many organs with varying degrees of severity. This can affect quality of life (QOL). SF36 is a commonly used QOL test. This study aims to report the validity and reliability test of the Indonesian Version of RAND SF-36 in SLE patients. This research uses a cross sectional method and tested it on 19 eligible respondents. To test the reliability and validity of the questionnaire, analysis of the Cronbach coefficient and Pearson correlation was carried out. All subjects were women with an average age of 22.37 ± 5.10 years, the majority had secondary education (66.7%), were not married (79.2%), had no comorbidities (31.6%), and the duration of SLE was more than 3 years (62.5%). All of them used steroids as SLE therapy and also Mycophenolate mofetil (68.8%). The total value of Cronbach's alpha is 0.723 > 0.7, only two items were deemed appropriate RE scale (0.778) and GH scale (0.724). The validity sig value is < 0.005. In general, this study provides evidence that the Indonesian version of the RAND-SF 36 can be used to assess the QOL of SLE patients. However, there are limitations to the reliability of the scales. Further research or adjustments to the questions in the Indonesian version are required to enhance the reliability of the assessment.
The study aim was to optimise the C/N ratio, improve the compost quality, reduce pathogenic bacteria load in the compost, and improve guava yield. Vegetable wastes were mixed with cow dung, grasses, and food wastes in ratios of 4:3:2:1 (w/w) for achieving a C/N ratio of approximately 37. Co-composting is an important strategy because the mixture of bulking agents can help achieve optimal composting conditions. Experimental results were obtained from a pilot-scale rotary drum reactor with forced aeration. In the reactor, the temperature increased during the thermophilic phase (58±2 °C) and decreased after 10 days (54±2 °C). The pH values moderately increased, then decreased, and were near to neutral after maturation. The results indicated that co-composting of bio-wastes at a C/N ratio of 37.6%±1.02% could be effectively decomposed to reduce the residuals to just 13.6%±1.05% after 28 days. The microbial population increased in both mesophilic and thermophilic stages and decreased at the end of the composting, reflecting stability. The stable compost was applied to the growth of guava plant, and the yield was calculated. The organic compost improved plant growth, fruit yield, and enriched phytochemical compounds in the fruit and peels. The phytochemical compounds improved antioxidant activity in the guava fruits.
Super mealworm <i>Zophobas morio</i> (Coleoptera: Tenbrionidea) larvae (ZML) are being investigated as potential candidates for biodiesel production. Several studies have revealed that the crude fat content of ZML can be enhanced by increasing the feed consumed. We aimed to develop an optimized ZML feed that enhances the lipid gain using 10 different ingredients. The results revealed that the highest lipid content was observed in ZML fed food waste (FW). Furthermore, we found that the weight gain of ZML improved when fed fermented FW using three selected microorganisms (3M), <i>Lactobacillus fermentum</i>, <i>Lactobacillus acidophilus</i>, and <i>Pediococcus acidilactici</i>. We also analyzed the effects of preservatives on the weight gain of ZML, and the results revealed that ZML fed 5-day 3M-fermented FW (FFW) containing 0.05% sorbic acid exhibited the highest weight gain. Based on these findings, we produced solid FFW containing 0.05% sorbic acid using 5% agar and established a manufacturing process. Body composition analysis revealed that the lipid content of the ZML fed manufactured feed was higher than that of the ZML fed wheat bran. Therefore, this study suggests that solid FFW containing 0.05% sorbic acid should be used as a commercial feed for ZML breeding to enhance lipid gain, making it an economical substrate for raw biodiesel production.
A new species of the genus Pergalumna, P. rooensis sp. nov. is described from leaf litter in secondary semi-evergreen tropical forest in Mexico. The new species can be distinguished from the related species P. makarovae in the body size, the length of lamellar seta, the morphology of head of the bothridial seta, and the localization of notogastral lyrifissure im. Pergalumna silvatica Hammer, 1961 is recorded in Mexico for the first time.
IntroductionThe genetic structure of species is shaped by natural (e.g., terrain, climate) and non-natural (e.g., human activities) factors. Geographical isolation and natural barriers are important causes of genetic structure formation of species. Here, we explored this issue in bamboo grasshopper, Ceracris kiangsu, which is an important pest that feeds on bamboo in East and Southeastern Asia.MethodsBased on 186 newly sequenced and 286 previously sequenced mitochondrial COI fragments, and 8 nuclear microsatellite loci, we examined the genetic diversity and population genetic structure of C. kiangsu.ResultsThe degree of genetic differentiation among populations was also high, and Mantel test showed that it was significantly correlated with geographical distance. Principal coordinate analysis and STRUCTURE results revealed two genetically different groups, a South China (S-China) Group and a Southeast Asia (SE-Asia) Group. Climate variables partly explained the population genetic structure. The demographic history and ABC showed that the S-China Group experienced population expansion, whereas the SE-Asia Group was consistently stable.DiscussionOur study demonstrates an obvious population structure maintained in this migratory insect and reveals the potential effect of past climatic change, geographical isolation, and ecological factors on the evolution of their genetic structure.
Marcos José de Oliveira, Francisca Helena Aguiar-Silva, Wanderlei de Moraes
et al.
A main priority in conservation is the protection of species in their natural habitat. However, ex situ management of threatened species is a recognised strategy of conservation. Harpy Eagles (Harpia harpyja) are removed from the wild due to illegal capture, nest tree destruction, or other conflict sources. This study presents a review of the current ex situ Harpy Eagle populations in Brazil and worldwide, including information on the origin, sex, and year of entrance or year of birth under human care. Worldwide, until 2020 there were 205 Harpy Eagles in 77 different facilities in 16 countries, with 40 institutions in Brazil and 37 in other countries. The largest ex situ Harpy Eagle population is maintained in Brazil, with 139 individuals (75 females and 64 males) in 40 institutions. Of these institutions, there were 24 zoos, seven conservation breeding centres, six commercial breeders, two wildlife shelters, and one wildlife sorting centre. In Brazil, 62% (n = 86) of the individuals were hatched in the wild and 38% (n = 53) were bred in captivity under human care; for the wild individuals, only 73% (n = 64) have a known state of origin, with the majority from Pará state. This investigation provided relevant information to establish an ex situ demographic database. These individuals may potentially constitute a genetically and demographically viable safety population for future conservation strategies, as well as a source for research and education applied to Harpy Eagle integrated conservation.
Mishal Liaqat, Muhammad Hussain, Muhammad Afzal
et al.
Abstract Background The educational efficacy in neonatal resuscitation relies on the subject and teaching strategies. Therefore, it is imperative to test diverse educational methods if they are more instructive to engage students in active learning and practicing knowledge. Hence, the present study aims to investigate the efficacy of a pedagogical framework in neonatal resuscitation skill learning among nursing students in a resource-limited setting. Methods A single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted between October 2020 to March 2021. Sixty nursing students in the 3rd and 4th year of professional training were randomly allocated to the pedagogy and the traditional group. The pedagogy group learned via 6-step LSPPDM (Learn, See, Practice, Prove, Do, Maintain) pedagogy including lectures, video, clinical observation, skill sessions under supervision, and self-directed practice. The traditional group learned through 2-step (Learn, Practice) method that included lectures and skill sessions under supervision. The outcomes measured included technical and non-technical skills in neonatal resuscitation. The technical skill deals with steps such as stimulation, ventilation, oxygenation, intubation, chest compression, medications, and reporting. Non-technical skills refer to teamwork skills that focus on the interaction between leader and helper. Both skills were measured through previously published validated tools two times before and after the intervention by blinded assessors in a simulated delivery room. Results Overall, the skill was significantly improved in both groups after intervention. Yet, the results showed that the mean difference of technical skill score in the pedagogy group (24.3 ± 3.5) was significantly higher (p < 0.001) compared to the traditional group (16.2 ± 2.4). Likewise, the mean difference of non-technical skill score in the pedagogy (36.9 ± 1.9) was highly significant (p < 0.001) compared to the traditional group (31.2 ± 1.7). Conclusions The LSPPDM pedagogy was found more effective in enhancing technical and non-technical skills in neonatal resuscitation compared to the traditional method. The results of this study support the efficacy of the 6-step LSPPDM pedagogy in the education of nursing students regarding neonatal resuscitation in a resource-limited setting. Trial registration Prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT04748341 ).
Hidayat Mohd Yusof, Nor’Aini Abdul Rahman, Rosfarizan Mohamad
et al.
Since the emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria in the poultry industry is currently a serious threat, there is an urgent need to develop a more efficient and alternative antibacterial substance. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have exhibited antibacterial efficacy against a wide range of microorganisms. Although the in vitro antibacterial activity of ZnO NPs has been studied, little is known about the antibacterial mechanisms of ZnO NPs against poultry-associated foodborne pathogens. In the present study, ZnO NPs were successfully synthesized using <i>Lactobacillus plantarum</i> TA4, characterized, and their antibacterial potential against common avian pathogens (<i>Salmonella</i> spp., <i>Escherichia coli</i>, and <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i>) was investigated. Confirmation of ZnO NPs by UV-Visual spectroscopy showed an absorption band center at 360 nm. Morphologically, the synthesized ZnO NPs were oval with an average particle size of 29.7 nm. Based on the dissolution study of Zn<sup>2+</sup>, ZnO NPs released more ions than their bulk counterparts. Results from the agar well diffusion assay indicated that ZnO NPs effectively inhibited the growth of the three poultry-associated foodborne pathogens. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were assessed using various concentrations of ZnO NPs, which resulted in excellent antibacterial activity as compared to their bulkier counterparts. <i>S. aureus</i> was more susceptible to ZnO NPs compared to the other tested bacteria. Furthermore, the ZnO NPs demonstrated substantial biofilm inhibition and eradication. The formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cellular material leakage was quantified to determine the underlying antibacterial mechanisms, whereas a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to examine the morphological changes of tested bacteria treated with ZnO NPs. The findings suggested that ROS-induced oxidative stress caused membrane damage and bacterial cell death. Overall, the results demonstrated that ZnO NPs could be developed as an alternative antibiotic in poultry production and revealed new possibilities in combating pathogenic microorganisms.
Kazybayeva Saule, Kovalchuk Irina, Turdiyev Timur
et al.
The article shows the improvement of the process of initiation into in vitro the culture and the clonal micropropagation of grape varieties. The optimal culture media for the initiation and cloning of grapes in vitro have been selected. During initiation on Murashige and Skoog, agar medium with ½ or ¾ concentration of macroand micronutrients and hormones (0.5 mg/l BAP and 0.1 mg/l IBA) is optimal. For micropropagation is suitable MS medium modified by some elements of mineral nutrition: 825 mg/l NH4NO3, 166 mg/l CaCl2, 15 mg/l ferrum chelate; best hormonal composition depends on variety: a) 0.5-1 mg/l BAP and 0.1-0.5 mg/l IBA; b) 0.5 mg/l 2-iP and 0.5 mg/l GA3.
The giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) is one of the world’s most endangered mammals and remains threatened as a result of intense environmental and anthropogenic pressure. The transformation and specialization of the giant panda’s diet into a herbivorous diet have resulted in unique adaptabilities in many aspects of their biology, physiology and behavior. However, little is known about their adaptability at the molecular level. Through comparative analysis of the giant panda’s genome with those of nine other mammalian species, we found some genetic characteristics of the giant panda that can be associated with adaptive changes for effective digestion of plant material. We also found that giant pandas have similar genetic characteristics to carnivores in terms of olfactory perception but have similar genetic characteristics to herbivores in terms of immunity and hydrolytic enzyme activity. Through the analysis of gene family expansion, 3752 gene families were found, which were enriched in functions such as digestion. A total of 93 genes under positive selection were screened out and gene enrichment identified these genes for the following processes: negative regulation of cellular metabolic process, negative regulation of nitrogen compound metabolic process, negative regulation of macromolecule metabolic process and negative regulation of metabolic process. Combined with the KEGG pathway, it was found that genes such as CREB3L1, CYP450 2S1, HSD11B2, LRPAP1 play a key role in digestion. These genes may have played a key role in the pandas’ adaptation to its bamboo diet.
A new species, Hygrocrates deelemanae sp. n., is described from the Mediterranean region of Turkey. Detailed morphological descriptions, diagnosis and figures of the copulatory organs of both sexes are presented. In addition, an identification key is presented for all currently known species of Hygrocrates.