Biology and Life Sciences

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Review
Biology and Life Sciences
Life Sciences

Tyler Hu

Abstract: Ankylosaurus stands as a quintessential example of Cretaceous armored dinosaurs, renowned for its formidable defensive adaptations. This study explores the defensive mechanisms and paleoecology of Ankylosaurus, focusing on its unique armor and lifestyle. Through detailed morphological analysis of fossil specimens, we examine the structure and function of the robust osteoderms and the prominent tail club, evaluating their roles in defense against predators. The distribution and arrangement of these defensive features suggest a sophisticated strategy to deter and survive attacks from contemporary theropods. Additionally, we investigate the paleoenvironmental context of Ankylosaurus, assessing how its habitat and ecological interactions influenced its evolutionary adaptations. Comparative analysis with other ankylosaurids and contemporaneous species provides insights into the evolutionary pressures shaping its armor. Our findings highlight the balance between offensive and defensive strategies in the Late Cretaceous ecosystem, underscoring the role of Ankylosaurus as both a well-protected herbivore and a critical component of its ecological niche. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the evolutionary dynamics of armored dinosaurs and their interaction with their environment, offering a comprehensive perspective on the adaptations that defined Ankylosaurus' survival strategy.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Plant Sciences

Xinlei Wang,

Sha Wang,

Qianchen Wei,

Kedi Zhao,

Feng Liu,

Yiying Zhao

Abstract:

Endosymbiotic bacteria play a significant role in the co-evolution of insects and plants. However, whether they induce, activate, or inhibit host plant defense responses remains unclear. In this study, non-targeted metabolomic sequencing was performed on cotton leaves infested with Wolbachia-infected and uninfected spider mites using parthenogenetic backcrossing and antibiotic treatment methods. A total of 55 differential metabolites were identified, which involved lipids, phenylpropanoids and polyketides. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed seven significantly enriched metabolic pathways. Among them, flavonoid and flavonol biosynthesis, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and ether lipid metabolism showed extremely significant differences. In Wolbachia infected cotton leaves, the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway was significantly upregulated, including quercetin and myricetin, suggesting that the plant produces more secondary metabolites to enhance its defense capability. Glycerophosphocholine (GPC) and sn-glycerol-3- phosphoethanolamine (PE) were significantly downregulated, suggesting that Wolbachia may impair the integrity and function of plant cell membranes. The downregulation of lysine and the upregulation of L-malic acid indicated that Wolbachia infection may shorten the lifespan of spider mites. At various developmental stages of the spider mites, Wolbachia infection increased the expression of detoxification metabolism related genes, including gene families such as cytochrome P450, glutathione S-transferase, carboxylesterase, and ABC transporters, thereby enhancing the detoxification capability of the host spider mite. This study provides a theoretical basis for further elucidating the mechanisms by which endosymbiotic bacteria induce plant defense responses and expands the theoretical framework of insect-plant co-evolution.

Review
Biology and Life Sciences
Life Sciences

Tyler Hu

Abstract: This literature review investigates how the diverse habitats of Baryonyx walkeri influenced its hunting strategies, with a focus on adaptations for piscivory and generalist predation. The spinosaurid theropod Baryonyx walkeri, known for its distinctive elongated snout and conical teeth, inhabited a variety of environments during the Early Cretaceous period. Fossil evidence suggests that Baryonyx frequented fluvial and lacustrine environments, leading to the hypothesis that its primary diet consisted of fish and other aquatic organisms. Detailed analysis of its cranial morphology reveals a suite of adaptations, including robust forelimbs with a large, sickle-shaped claw, ideal for catching slippery prey. Isotopic analysis of oxygen in Baryonyx indicates a significant reliance on fish and other similar organisms. Comparisons with modern analogs, such as crocodilians, provide further insight into the behavioral ecology of Baryonyx. This review integrates paleontological data with modern ecological analogs to reconstruct the hunting strategies of Baryonyx walkeri. The findings underscore the importance of habitat diversity in shaping the evolutionary pathways of predatory dinosaurs and contribute to a broader understanding of spinosaurid ecology and behavior.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Behavioral Sciences

Catalin Barboianu

Abstract: The near-miss has been considered an important factor of reinforcement in gambling behavior, and previous research has focused more on its industry-related causes and effects and less on the gaming phenomenon itself. The near-miss has usually been associated with the games of slots and scratch cards, due to the special characteristics of these games, which include the possibility of pre-manipulation of award symbols in order to increase the frequency of these “engineered” near-misses. In this paper, we argue that starting from an elementary mathematical description of the classical (by pure chance) near-miss, generalizable to any game, and focusing equally on the epistemology of its constitutive concepts and their mathematical description, we can identify more precisely the fallacious elements of the near-miss cognitive effects and the inadequate perception and representation of the observational-intentional “I was that close.” This approach further suggests a strategy of using non-standard mathematical knowledge of an epistemological type in problem-gambling prevention and cognitive therapies.
Review
Biology and Life Sciences
Agricultural Science and Agronomy

Maria Gerakari,

Anastasios Katsileros,

Konstantina Kleftogianni,

Eleni Tani,

Penelope J. Bebeli,

Vasileios Papasotiropoulos

Abstract: Artificial intelligence (AI), including machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL), has become an essential tool in modern agriculture, revolutionizing traditional practices and offering sustainable solutions to critical challenges, such as climate change, population growth, and resource scarcity. Through advanced algorithms and predictive models, ML and DL enhance precise genomic selection (GS), trait characterization, and the acceleration of crop breeding processes. These technologies facilitate the identification and optimization of key traits, including increased yield, improved quality, pest resistance, and tolerance to extreme climatic conditions. Additionally, ML-driven tools support gene-editing technologies, such as CRISPR-Cas9, contributing to the development of resilient and adaptable crops. By leveraging big data analytics and omic technologies, they provide valuable insights into linking genetic and phenotypic data, fostering the development of sustainable agricultural practices. This research explores the transformative potential of AI, particularly ML and DL, in Solanaceous crops by developing advanced breeding strategies to address challenges posed by climate change and rapid population growth. Furthermore, this study highlights the significant role of these technologies in creating novel crop varieties that are resilient to environmental stressors, while exhibiting superior agronomic and quality traits. AI and its applications, such as ML and DL, contribute to the genetic improvement of Solanaceous crops, strengthening agricultural resilience, ensuring food security, and promoting environmental sustainability
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Biophysics

Malthe Kjær Bendtsen,

Jan Stanislaw Nowak,

Pedro Paiva,

Marcos Lórez Hernández,

Pedro Ferreira,

Jan Skov Pedersen,

Nicolai Sundgaard Bekker,

Elia Viezzi,

Francesco Bisiak,

Lars Haastrup Pedersen

+7 authors
Abstract: Cold-active enzymes hold promise in energy-efficient processes. Amylases are widely used in household and industrial applications, but only a few are cold-active. Here we describe three novel secreted amylases Rho13, Ika2 and I3C6, all from bacteria growing in the cold and alkaline ikaite columns in Greenland. They all hydrolysed starch to smaller malto-oligomers, but only Rho13 and Ika2 hydrolysed cyclodextrins and only Ika2 displayed transglycosylation activity. Ika2 forms a stable dimer, while both Rho13 and I3C6 are mainly monomeric. They all have optimal temperatures around 30-35℃ and significant activity below 20℃, but Rho13 and I3C6 had an alkaline pH optimum while Ika2 was markedly acidophilic. They show complex dependence on Ca2+ concentration, with activity of Rho13 and I3C6 following a bell-shaped dependence and Ika2 being unaffected; however, removal of Ca2+ reduces stability of all 3 enzymes. Loss of structure occurs well above the optimal activity, showing the characteristic psychrophilic divorce be-tween activity and stability. MD simulations showed that Ika2 did not have a well-defined Ca2+ binding site, while Rho13 and I3C6 both maintain one stably bound Ca2+ ion. We identified psychrophilic features as higher levels of backbone fluctuations compared to mesophilic counterparts, founded in a lower number of internal hydrogen bonds and salt bridges. This increased fluctuation is also found in regions outside the active site and may provide easier substrate access and ac-commodation and faster barrier transitions. Our work sheds further light on the many ways in which psychrophilic enzymes adapt to increased catalysis at lower temperatures.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Agricultural Science and Agronomy

Biao Liu,

Zhaohui Guo,

Wei Chen,

Zhen Wang,

Lijuan Xu,

Shuaishuai Gao,

Yingben Wu,

Yan Zeng,

Bingxuan Tang,

Minxi Wu

+1 authors
Abstract: Preventing loss of nitrogen during aerobic manure composting is a critical challenge, and introducing microbial agents with specific functions offers a promising solution. This study aimed to explore how Bacillus subtilis F2 (a thermotolerant nitrifying bacterium) on nitrogen conservation, microbial dynamics, and nitrogen conversion-associated gene abundance during pig manure composting. Relative to the uninoculated controls, adding F2 markedly raised the germination index, nitrate content, and total nitrogen in the final compost, resulting in reduced nitrogen loss. The inoculation led to a distinct succession of bacterial communities, enriching microorganisms associated with fermentation and hydrocarbon degradation, while the fungal communities did not change significantly between the control and treated compost. Furthermore, inoculation markedly increased amoA gene levels and decreased nirK abundance during the cooling and maturation phases. Significant relationships were detected between nitrogen content, microbial composition, and nitrogen conversion genes in correlation analyses. In summary, the addition of F2 is recommended for bolstering nitrogen retention in the context of composting.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Life Sciences

Aleksei E Bigildeev,

Evgeny A Bigildeev,

Eugenia S Boulygina,

Svetlana V Tsygankova,

Mariia S Gusakova,

Olga I Illarionova

Abstract: Transplantability of allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as a stable engraftment and participation in physiological renewal of bone marrow (BM) stroma remains an open question. We hypothesized that a necessary condition for successful MSC transplantation is the prior significant damage to the recipient’s BM stroma. To test this, BM derived from male B10 mice was injected intravenously into syngeneic female mice irradiated with 6.5 Gy and 13 Gy, and unirradiated individuals. We measured donor chimerism 30 days after irradiation in recipients’ bones by RQ-PCR and in BM CFU-Fs by ddPCR. The ratio of PCR signals from single-copy Y chromosome-linked Prssly gene and autosomal Gapdh gene was used to determine donor chimerism. None of the non-irradiated recipients had donor cells in the subpopulation under study. In the group of recipients irradiated at a dose of 6.5 Gy, donor cells were detected at 0.16% in BM of only one animal. Increasing the radiation dose resulted in a significant increase in donor chimerism among BM stromal cells: it was 11% and 14% in two survived animals of this group. Donor chimerism in the bones of unirradiated recipients was not observed in any of the 15 samples. It was detected in only 2/18 bones of recipients irradiated with 6.5 Gy (0.8% and 1%). The median donor chimerism in bones of recipients irradiated with 13 Gy was 15%. We conclude that the condition for successful engraftment of donor stromal progenitor cells is prior damage to the recipient's BM stroma.
Review
Biology and Life Sciences
Life Sciences

Tyler Hu

Abstract: This literature review investigates the morphological and behavioral significance of the horns of Carnotaurus sastrei, a theropod dinosaur from the Late Cretaceous period. Through a comprehensive analysis of fossil specimens, comparative anatomy, and biomechanical modeling, this review explores the evolutionary adaptations and potential functions of these distinctive cranial structures. The horns of Carnotaurus are hypothesized to serve multiple roles, including species recognition, thermoregulation, and intraspecific combat. Our findings suggest that its cranial horns likely served a primary role in species recognition, intimidating rivals and signaling mating readiness. It also could have been used occasionally in head-butting contests, potentially as a display of dominance, but likely did not play a role in thermoregulation. Additionally, we examine the ecological context in which Carnotaurus lived, assessing how environmental factors could have influenced the development of such features. The implications of this study extend to broader discussions on the functional morphology and adaptive strategies of theropod dinosaurs, highlighting the complex relationship between form and function in the evolutionary history of predatory dinosaurs like Carnotaurus sastrei.
Review
Biology and Life Sciences
Life Sciences

Tyler Hu

Abstract: This literature review investigates the role of plumage in the hunting tactics of Velociraptor, integrating anatomical analysis and biomechanical modeling. Velociraptor, a swift and agile theropod from the Late Cretaceous, exhibited advanced intelligence and sensory capabilities that contributed to its effective predatory strategies. Recent discoveries have confirmed that Velociraptor was covered in feathers, with quill knobs indicating well-developed plumage. This review explores the potential functions of feathers beyond flight, focusing on their impact on hunting behavior. Evidence suggests that Velociraptor’s plumage likely facilitated camouflage and enhanced aerodynamic control, improving its stealth and maneuverability during high-speed chases. Additionally, feathers might have contributed to stability during incline running, further supporting its adaptability in diverse environments. Velociraptor’s hunting strategies, characterized by agility and precision, were complemented by its feathered anatomy, which may have also played a role in pack hunting and social interactions. Overall, the integration of plumage with Velociraptor’s anatomical features and behavioral adaptations underscores its efficiency as a predator, demonstrating how feathers may have been a critical factor in its successful hunting tactics.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics

Ashutosh Sharma,

Wojciech Adamowski,

S. Noorunnisa Begum

Abstract: Impatiens reidii Hook.f. a rare presumed extinct and Kumaon endemic species only known from its type collection in 1886 is rediscovered from its type locality after a gap of 138 years. The identity of historically ambiguous name I. tingens is reinvestigated based on studies of literature, type specimens and recollection of live material from the type locality that confirmed the name I. tingens is conspecific with I. scullyi and thus latter name is synonymised. Impatiens inayatii, another little-known species described by Hooker as endemic to Kali valley, Kumaon currently treated as a synonym of Impatiens bicornuta is recollected from near the type locality after 124 years, our recollection confirms its identity as a totally distinct species from section Urticifoliae S.Akiyama & H.Ohba thus reinstating name I. inayatii. Augmented description for all three species is provided with information on their botanical history, species etymology, key identification characteristics, distribution, phenology, ecology and first photographic documentation of I. reidii and I. inayatii. Also, lectotypes are designated for the names I. reidii and I. tingens.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Joshua Frank,

Lily Tehrani,

Jackson Gamer,

Derek J. Van Booven,

Sarah Ballarin,

Raquel Rossman,

Abraham Edelstein,

Sadhika Uppalati,

Ana Reuthebuck,

Fanny Collado

+2 authors
Abstract: Gulf War Illness (GWI) is a multi-symptom disorder affecting 1990–1991 Persian Gulf War veterans and is characterized by post-exertional malaise, neurological symptoms, immune deregulation, and exhaustion. Causation is not understood, and effective diagnostics and therapies have not yet been developed. In this work, we analyzed stress-related, sex-specific transcriptomic shifts in GWI subjects and healthy controls through RNA sequencing of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Blood samples at baseline (T0), at maximal exertion (T1), and four hours post-exertion (T2) were analyzed. In female sub-jects with GWI proinflammatory processes, and in male subjects IL-12 signaling and lymphocytic activation were deregulated at T1compared to T0. During recovery from stress, HCMV activity and microglia activation increased in female GWI subjects, and apoptotic signaling changed in males with GWI. Documented sex-specific immune deregulation warrants personalized markers and therapies. Targeting sex-specific transcriptomic markers of disease could lead to new therapies for GWI.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Food Science and Technology

Elena González-Fandos,

Alba Martínez Laorden,

Santiago Condón Usón,

María Jesús Serrano Andrés

Abstract:

Poultry meat is the most consumed worldwide due to its low fat content, sensory qualities, and affordability. However, its rapid spoilage, especially when minced for products like hamburgers, is a challenge. Strategies such as sulphite addition or modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) can help control spoilage and microbial growth. This study evaluated both approaches by analyzing bacterial development in poultry hamburgers through total viable counts and MALDI-TOF identification. The addition of 5 mg/kg sulphites had a limited effect, whereas increasing CO2 levels in packaging significantly extended shelf life by reducing bacterial growth rates and prolonging lag phases. The most affected bacteria were aerobic mesophilic and psychrotrophic bacteria, as well as Brochothrix thermosphacta. Carnobacterium spp. dominated the aerobic mesophilic group, while Enterobacter spp. was prevalent in Enterobacteriaceae and aerobic mesophilic isolates, highlighting its role in spoilage. Hafnia alvei was also relevant in the final spoilage stages. These results suggest the importance of these bacteria in poultry hamburger decay and demonstrate that MAP is an effective method to delay spoilage.

Review
Biology and Life Sciences
Life Sciences

Bhuvanasree Ramakrishnan

Abstract: Conventional cancer therapies pose a toxicity risk to healthy cells, which leads to severe physical and physiological changes in both cancer patients and survivors. These treatments, in combination with phytochemicals, have been found to exhibit minimal side effects and additional anti-oxidant effects. The Indian state of Kerala is well known for its Ayurvedic history and harbors medicinal flora whose phytochemicals have been broadly studied for their anticancer properties. Prompt advancements in preclinical and clinical studies surrounding the bioavailability and stability of bioactive compounds are essential to incorporating phytotherapy into cancer treatment. This review delves into a few rarely discussed yet promising medicinal plants found in Kerala, presenting existing evidence of their anticancer properties, mainly focusing on their phytoconstituents.
Review
Biology and Life Sciences
Life Sciences

Tyler Hu

Abstract: This literature review provides a comprehensive analysis of the functional morphology and paleoecology of Pteranodon, a prominent genus of Pterosaur from the Late Cretaceous period. By synthesizing recent research findings with classic studies, this paper elucidates the aerodynamic and ecological adaptations of Pteranodon, which was one of the largest pterosaurs to ever soar the skies. The review examines the distinctive cranial features, including its elongated cranial crest and its implications for sexual dimorphism and species identification. Detailed analysis of wing morphology and limb proportions reveals insights into its flight mechanics, suggesting that Pteranodon was adapted for dynamic soaring, leveraging its expansive wingspan for efficient long-distance travel. Additionally, the paper explores Pteranodon's feeding habits and dietary preferences based on dental and jaw structure, indicating a diet primarily consisting of fish and other aquatic prey. The review also integrates fossil evidence with ecological models to reconstruct the paleoenvironment of the Late Cretaceous, highlighting the role of Pteranodon in its ecosystem as both a predator and a competitor. This synthesis not only enhances our understanding of Pteranodon’s physiological and ecological roles but also contributes to broader discussions on pterosaur evolution and behavior.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Immunology and Microbiology

Yan Wang,

Ariana Kerngel Waters,

Geofrey Basalirwa,

Ali Ssetaala,

Juliet Mpendo,

Annemarie Namuniina,

Emily Keneema,

David Kiiza,

Jacqueline Lugemwa,

Yunia Mayanja

+2 authors
Abstract: Objective: Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni) infection is endemic in fishing communities. We investigated its potential impact on Hepatitis B (Hep B) vaccine responses and its role in mediating the association between the gut microbiome and the long-term effectiveness of the vaccine response. Methods: Participants were tested for S. mansoni infections at baseline and received the Hep B vaccine at baseline, month 1, and month 6. Those with infections were treated. Stool samples were collected at baseline and analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing. The Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to compare alpha diversity between groups. A linear regression model was applied to estimate the association between one-year Hep B vaccine responses and baseline gut microbiome by infection status, adjusting for age and sex. Results: A total of 107 participants were included (44 from the fishing community and 63 from the Kampala community). There was no significant difference in microbiome composition by location or infection status at baseline or exit. In the linear regression analysis, S. mansoni infection (β = 1.24, p = 0.025) and higher alpha diversity (β = 0.001, p = 0.07) were associated with higher Hep B vaccine responses, while older age was associated with a lower Hep B vaccine response (β = -0.06, p = 0.0013). Conclusions: S. mansoni infection status before vaccination may modify the association between the gut microbiome and Hep B vaccine response. Potential interventions could focus on infection control as well as improving microbiome richness before implementing vaccine programs in fishing communities.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Food Science and Technology

Paola Rodríguez-Rugarcía,

Leonel Cuamatzin-García,

María De Lourdes Meza-Jiménez,

Ma Rocío Baños-Lara,

Juan Carlos Rodríguez-Espinosa,

Erika Lozada-Perezmitre,

Beatriz Pérez-Armendáriz

Abstract:

Introduction: Non committable chronic diseases such as overweight and obesity are considered in high risk for type 2 diabetes. Around the world, there are 536.6 million people with diabetes. Mexico represents a high prevalence of these diseases. Objective: Evaluate the effect of a synbiotic beverage and a 12-week dietary intervention on body composition and biochemical parameters in women with T2D, overweight or obesity, to obtain an additional strategy as treatment. Methods: A double-blinded, randomized and experimental in a 12 week dietary intervention with a synbiotic fermented beverage with a n=51 women divided in 4 groups: G1 followed a moderate calorie-restricted diet, G2 did the same moderate calorie-restricted diet and a synbiotic, G3 took only the synbiotic and G4 consumed a placebo beverage. Results: The total mean of ages of the 4 groups was 42.90 ± 10.6. The significant changes were in BMI (P<0.001), fat mass (P<0.001), HOMA-index (P<0.001) and serum insulin serum (P<0.001), after the 12 week dietary intervention, proving the effect of the synbiotic. Conclusion: Significant decreases in different body composition and biochemical profiles were proved showing the benefits of the beverage. Further research is needed in gut microbiota profile in this kind of participants.

Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Food Science and Technology

Erika Jesenko,

Rajko Vidrih,

Emil Zlatić

Abstract:

The objectives of this study were to investigate extended exposure of ‘Gala’ apples to con-stant presence of ethanol and hexanal on the production of aroma compounds after long-term CA storage. 'Gala' apples were stored in CA under 2 kPa O2 and 98 kPa N2 at 1.0 ± 0.1 °C with a constant ethanol (CA-et) or hexanal (CA-he) concentration maintained at 50 µgL-1 throughout six month storage period. A total of 25 volatile compounds (VOCs) were identified. The Odor Activity Value (OAV) results showed that 9 VOCs were the key aroma compounds. Among them, hexyl acetate, 2-metyhbutyl acetate, and 1-butanol were the highest. Hexanal increased the production of hexyl acetate, while ethanol increased the production of 2-metyhlbutyl acetate and ethyl 2-methylbutanoate. Both precursors promoted the production of 1-butanol after two months of storage and 1 day of shelf life. Overall, the impact of the precursors on aroma production was more pronounced after two months than after six months of storage. Different storage atmosphere significantly influenced VOCs correlations, suggesting that ethanol and hexanal addition altered aro-ma biosynthesis pathways in ‘Gala’ apples. For varieties like ‘Gala’ that rapidly lose aroma during CA storage, CA-et and CA-he treatments may be beneficial for short-term storage, enhancing key aroma compounds and improving sensory quality.

Brief Report
Biology and Life Sciences
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Samuel Brown,

Philemon Shallie,

Connor Sierra,

Neha Nayak,

Anthony O Odibo,

Paula Monaghan-Nichols,

Nihar R Nayak

Abstract: Understanding the timing of fetal brain vulnerability to inflammatory changes in pregnancy complications is crucial for predicting neurodevelopmental risks. Beyond the placenta, the developing brain's vascular system is believed to form a secondary defense, the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which restricts harmful substances that could disrupt neurodevelopment. However, the precise timing and mechanisms underlying BBB development are poorly understood. In this study, we examined the spatiotemporal expression of key BBB components and fetal brain vascularization in mice from gestational days (GD) 10 to 18. Fetal brain sections were immunostained to identify BBB components, including CD31, Factor VIII, NG2, and claudin-5. Our results showed that endothelial precursor cells form the primitive vascular network in a caudal to rostral gradient by GD10, with pericyte recruitment stabilizing vessels by GD12 in a lateral-to-medial gradient that aligns with neurogenesis, despite some regional exceptions. However, Factor VIII was not detected until GD15, and claudin-5 until GD18, suggesting a significant delay in endothelial maturation and tight junction formation. These findings highlight the critical timing of structural developments in the fetal brain vasculature and its vulnerability to placental diseases, laying the groundwork for future research on the impact of placental disorders on fetal brain development and potential therapeutic interventions.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Virology

Musa Saffa,

Alusaine Samura,

Mohamed Bah,

Angela Eni,

Ezechiel Tibiri,

Saidou Zongo,

William Amoakon,

Fidèle Tiendrébéogo,

Justin Pita,

Prince Norman

Abstract: Dearth of knowledge exists on identification of the begomoviruses and distribution of cassava mosaic viruses across key cassava growing regions of Sierra Leone. The objective of the study was to identify and map the distribution of cassava mosaic disease (CMD)-associated viruses in farmers' fields of Sierra Leone. Cassava leaf samples were collected in 109 smallholder farms during a geo-referenced survey conducted from 10th May to 5th June, 2024. Molecular diagnostics were carried out to identify the viral strains associated with CMD. Findings revealed that infection by stem cutting was more predominant in the south, east, north and northwest regions than the west region; whereas infection by whitefly was predominant in the west, north and north-west regions. The PCR screening of 426 samples coupled with sequence analysis revealed the presence of African cassava mosaic-like (ACMV-like) viruses, and East African cassava mosaic-like (EACMV-like) viruses as single infections at 78.1% and 1.3%, respectively. Co-infections of ACMV-like and EACMV-like viruses were detected in 20.6% of the tested samples. In addition, 70.6% of the samples positive for EACMV-like virus (single and mixed infections) were found to be positive for East African cassava mosaic Cameroon virus (EACMCMV). The ACMV and co-infection of ACMV and EACMV viruses were present in all regions, while EACMCV was detected in all regions except the western area. The results indicate that EACMCMV variant occurrence may be more prevalent in Sierra Leone than previously thought. This study suggests use of good agricultural practices and participatory surveillance as a strategy for managing CMD in Sierra Leone.

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