Review
Ecology
Marco Andrello, Cassidy D'Aloia, Alicia Dalongeville, Marco A. Escalante, Jimena Guerrero, Charles Perrier, Juan Pablo Torres-Florez, Amanda Xuereb, Stephanie Manel
Summary: This article reviews how intraspecific genetic data have been integrated into the spatial conservation prioritization framework, highlighting their potential in identifying comprehensive conservation area networks that represent genetic diversity and ensure the long-term persistence of biodiversity in the face of global change.
TRENDS IN ECOLOGY & EVOLUTION
(2022)
Article
Ecology
Joy B. Banayo, Kathlyn Louise V. Manese, Kaito O. Furusho, Agapita J. Salces, Takahiro Yamagata
Summary: This study determined the population structure and genetic diversity of the Philippine native pig (PhNP) and identified unique genetic units for conservation. It also highlighted the need for immediate conservation actions for certain populations with small effective population sizes.
ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION
(2023)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Kyle J. Brumm, R. Daniel Hanks, Robert F. Baldwin, Brandon K. Peoples
Summary: This study evaluated the relationships among taxonomic richness, functional diversity, functional redundancy, and biotic integrity for freshwater fish and benthic macroinvertebrate communities in the Congaree Biosphere Region. It found that patterns of taxonomic and functional diversity among organism groups were complementary, with implications for surrogate performance. The study also suggested that within-taxa variation among measures of taxonomic and functional diversity may be more important to consider than the taxonomic representation of multiple organism groups.
ECOLOGICAL INDICATORS
(2021)
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Maria Gabriela C. D. Peixoto, Maria Raquel S. Carvalho, Andrea A. Egito, Raphael S. Steinberg, Frank Angelo T. Bruneli, Marco Antonio Machado, Fernanda C. Santos, Izinara C. Rosse, Pablo Augusto S. Fonseca
Summary: The Guzera breed in Brazil has experienced genetic bottlenecks, but efforts by the scientific community and breeders have maintained high genetic diversity. The dual-purpose herds are more uniform, with beef herds preserving greater amounts of genetic diversity among groups, while the dairy herd is genetically distant from others.
Editorial Material
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
J. Kor Oldenbroek
Summary: The conservation of genetic diversity is a costly process, but genomic information is now essential for making choices in conservation. Genomics can accurately measure genetic distances and detect valuable rare alleles and haplotypes, aiding in the conservation of genomic regions.
Article
Agronomy
Khanyisani S. Nxumalo, Paul Grobler, Karen Ehlers, Lucky T. Nesengani, Ntanganedzeni O. Mapholi
Summary: The study aimed to assess the genetic relationship between different ecotypes of indigenous South African sheep breed Nguni using SNP markers and compare them with other selected South African breeds. The genetic differences were observed among Nguni sheep populations, with the Zulu and Swazi populations clustering together and showing distinction from the Pedi ecotype. The study also revealed genetic admixtures in the Damara and Dorper sheep, most likely as a result of recent intermixing between indigenous and commercial breeds. The study provides important baseline information for establishing conservation and breeding programs for indigenous sheep breeds.
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
S. Marta, D. Druella, L. Talarico, G. F. Ficetola, P. Gratton
Summary: Biodiversity is a complex concept that requires actions to consider all levels of biodiversity. This study used genetic data and measures of environmental stability to identify drivers of intraspecific genetic diversity, prioritize areas for conservation, and assess the relationship between species and genetic diversity. The results showed that phylogenetic originality was correlated with climate and habitat stability, while predictors had limited explanatory power for nucleotide diversity. The surrogacy between genetic and species diversity was also limited, highlighting the need for larger efforts to preserve genetic diversity.
BIOLOGICAL CONSERVATION
(2023)
Article
Plant Sciences
Hassan Mansour, Hameed Alsamadany, Zaki M. Al-Hasawi
Summary: A study found that Rhanterium epapposum Oliv., a medicinal shrub in the Arabian Peninsula, has low genetic diversity and high genetic differentiation among populations. The species is facing threats such as overcutting, overgrazing, and increasing human activities, which are exacerbated by climate change-induced aridification. The lack of gene migration among populations is causing a severe deficiency in genetic diversity. Measures such as seed banks, restoration of diminished populations, and monitoring and prevention of threats are urgently needed to protect and recover the remaining populations.
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Marike Trytsman, Francuois L. Mueller, M. Igshaan Samuels, Clement F. Cupido, Abraham E. van Wyk
Summary: This research aims to document the regional diversity and distribution of valuable fodder trees and shrubs in rangelands of South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini. A database of plant species utilized by ruminants and non-ruminants was compiled, and their distribution records were analyzed to establish phytogeographical patterns. A total of 613 plant species from 76 families were recorded, forming seven distinct browse-choria. This research provides valuable information for prioritizing conservation efforts and future development of forage crops.
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Andres Flores, Enrique Buendia Rodriguez, Tomas Pineda Ojeda, Eulogio Flores Ayala, Jorge Mendez-Gonzalez
Summary: Genetic conservation is vital for the future of forests, but they are facing various threats, as seen in Mexico's degradation of forest genetic resources over the past three decades due to deforestation. Despite being a center of pine diversity, Mexico's genetic conservation efforts are insufficient. By analyzing the species distribution at national and germplasm transfer zone levels, and evaluating them based on minimum conservation requirements and EUFORGEN indicators, we identified 13 to 15 genetic zones containing the target species. We established 173 areas for genetic conservation units, with 50% selected from areas with genetic information, 5% from seed stands, and 45% from natural forests. We also found that most forest reproductive materials are collected from seed stands, with limited use of seeds from breeding trials.
Review
Genetics & Heredity
Romesh Kumar Salgotra, Bhagirath Singh Chauhan
Summary: Plant genetic resources (PGRs) are crucial for increasing farming resilience and profit and should be conserved for sustainable food security. The diversity of genetic resources, including landraces, wild relatives, and modern varieties, contributes to maintaining sustainable biodiversity and developing new crop varieties with desirable traits. Biotechnological tools, such as next-generation sequencing and gene banks, aid in the characterization and conservation of rare species, as well as the identification and transfer of novel genes for crop breeding. This article focuses on recent advancements in maintaining genetic resource diversity, conservation, and sustainable utilization for global food security.
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Jinqiang Quan, Yongqing Li, Yonghui Yang, Tianliang Yang, Yuzhu Sha, Yuan Cai, Ting Jiao, Jianping Wu, Shengguo Zhao
Summary: The study analyzed the mtDNA D-loop sequences of 1163 Chinese indigenous cattle to determine their maternal origin and population genetic structure, prioritizing conservation evaluations based on a population genetic model. Three maternal origins or domestication events were identified among Chinese indigenous cattle, with various levels of genetic diversity and contributions to the richness of genetic resources. The research provides a scientific basis and effective evaluation methods for the protection of genetic resources of indigenous livestock varieties.
GLOBAL ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION
(2021)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Henrik Thurfjell, Linda Laikre, Robert Ekblom, Sean Hoban, Per Sjogren-Gulve
Summary: The study highlights the importance of genetic diversity for species adaptability and survival, emphasizing the need for monitoring to ensure maintenance. Data showed that some species may have an effective population size, while information on remaining populations or historical range was available for only 20% of species. Additionally, genetic diversity in some species is being monitored using DNA-based methods.
ECOLOGICAL INDICATORS
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Mateja Janes, Minja Zorc, Maja Ferencakovic, Ino Curik, Peter Dovc, Vlatka Cubric-Curik
Summary: The study found that the three Balkan LGD breeds are genetically distinct populations, with the Karst Shepherd being slightly genetically distinct and influenced by German Shepard. The Sharplanina Dog and Tornjak showed high genomic diversity, while the Karst Shepherd had low diversity and high inbreeding, indicating the need for proper diversity management.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Jennifer Cao, Roswitha Baumung, Paul Boettcher, Beate Scherf, Badi Besbes, Gregoire Leroy
Summary: This study analyzed three rounds of reporting (2012, 2014, and 2019) from Member Nations of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to gain insight into the progress and implementation of the Global Plan. Variations were found in indicator scores across SPAs, year, and regions, with most BRICs countries showing high implementation scores relative to other countries in the same region. A significant positive correlation was observed between mean implementation scores in 2019 and GDP per capita.
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Jeremie Vandenplas, Herwin Eding, Mario P. L. Calus
Summary: Genetic groups, known as unknown or phantom parent groups, are often used in dairy cattle genetic evaluations to account for selection that cannot be explained by known genetic relationships. The Quaas and Pollak transformation can be applied to include genetic groups in the pedigree, reducing memory burden and computational costs compared to fitting genetic groups as covariates.
JOURNAL OF DAIRY SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
David De Ridder, Jose Sandoval, Nicolas Vuilleumier, Andrew S. Azman, Silvia Stringhini, Laurent Kaiser, Stephane Joost, Idris Guessous
Summary: The study found that SARS-CoV-2 clusters persisted longer in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods, with the deprivation index being associated with an increased cluster persistence. These findings emphasize the need for interventions to reduce inequalities in the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and serious outcomes.
FRONTIERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH
(2021)
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
S. Pegolo, D. Giannuzzi, V Bisutti, R. Tessari, M. E. Gelain, L. Gallo, S. Schiavon, F. Tagliapietra, E. Trevisi, P. Ajmone Marsan, G. Bittante, A. Cecchinato
Summary: The study found associations between differential somatic cell count and milk quality and cheesemaking traits. High DSCC was positively correlated with the recovery of protein, fat, and energy in milk, while high MAC count was negatively associated with milk quality.
JOURNAL OF DAIRY SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Oliver Selmoni, Gael Lecellier, Helene Magalon, Laurent Vigliola, Nicolas Oury, Francesca Benzoni, Christophe Peignon, Stephane Joost, Veronique Berteaux-Lecellier
Summary: The study found that some coral species have developed tolerance against heat stress, possibly through local adaptation. Using seascape genomics approach, heat stress-associated SNPs were identified in genes related to pathways such as protein folding, oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and DNA repair in these species.
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Helene Baysson, Francesco Pennachio, Ania Wisniak, Maria Eugenia Zabella, Nick Pullen, Prune Collombet, Elsa Lorthe, Stephane Joost, Jean-Francois Balavoine, Delphine Bachmann, Andrew Azman, Didier Pittet, Francois Chappuis, Omar Kherad, Laurent Kaiser, Idris Guessous, Silvia Stringhini
Summary: The objective of this study is to conduct a long-term follow-up of adult participants in serosurveys, monitoring COVID-19 related symptoms, SARS-CoV-2 seroconversion, and the overall impact of the pandemic on health and socioeconomic factors over a period of at least 2 years.
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Elisa Somenzi, Gabriele Senczuk, Roberta Ciampolini, Matteo Cortellari, Elia Vajana, Gwenola Tosser-Klopp, Fabio Pilla, Paolo Ajmone-Marsan, Paola Crepaldi, Licia Colli
Summary: This study investigated the evolutionary history and relationships of the Montecristo wild goat population. The results showed low genetic diversity and significant genetic differentiation in the population on the island compared to other Mediterranean breeds. The study also suggested that the Montecristo goats experienced multiple demographic fluctuations and exhibited noticeable differentiation between the two nuclei.
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
V. Bisutti, S. Pegolo, D. Giannuzzi, L. F. M. Mota, A. Vanzin, A. Toscano, E. Trevisi, P. Ajmone Marsan, M. Brasca, A. Cecchinato
Summary: This study evaluated the effects of 5-casein A1 and A2 genetic variants on milk protein profile and cheese-making traits. The results showed that the A1A1 genotype was associated with a significant decrease in whey protein production, while the A2A2 genotype performed the worst in cheese-making ability.
JOURNAL OF DAIRY SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Juan R. Vallarta-Robledo, Stephane Joost, Marco Andre Vieira Ruas, Cedric Gubelmann, Peter Vollenweider, Pedro Marques-Vidal, Idris Guessous
Summary: The built environment may influence the spatial patterns of physical activity independently of socioeconomic and demographic factors. Interventions in the built environment should be considered to promote physically active behaviors in urban areas.
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Diana Giannuzzi, Alessandro Toscano, Sara Pegolo, Luigi Gallo, Franco Tagliapietra, Marcello Mele, Andrea Minuti, Erminio Trevisi, Paolo Ajmone Marsan, Stefano Schiavon, Alessio Cecchinato
Summary: The fatty acid profile in milk can serve as a suitable indicator of metabolic status in early lactating dairy cows, reflecting energy and nutritional metabolism variations.
Review
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Simona Sciuto, Licia Colli, Andrea Fabris, Paolo Pastorino, Nadia Stoppani, Giovanna Esposito, Marino Prearo, Giuseppe Esposito, Paolo Ajmone-Marsan, Pier Luigi Acutis, Silvia Colussi
Summary: This review describes the application of genetics and genomics in controlling infectious diseases in aquaculture. Breeding for disease resistance can mitigate the impact of infectious diseases on aquaculture. However, the interaction between host and pathogen during breeding may lead to pathogenic changes. Therefore, the parallel characterization of pathogens and their genes is crucial in understanding pathogen evolution and applying appropriate mitigation strategies.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
E. Capra, B. Lazzari, M. Milanesi, G. P. Nogueira, J. F. Garcia, Y. T. Utsunomiya, P. Ajmone-Marsan, A. Stella
Summary: In this study, methylation differences between taurine Angus and indicine Nellore cattle breeds were identified using RRBS profiling. Most differentially methylated sites clustered around genes involved in cellular and anatomical structure morphogenesis. Furthermore, sequences flanking differentially methylated sites were enriched with SNPs compared to other CpG sites. These findings suggest that epigenetics contributes to the regulation and divergence of anatomical morphogenesis in cattle evolution and sub-species differentiation and adaptation.
Review
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Hafedh Ben Zaabza, Curtis P. Van Tassell, Jeremie Vandenplas, Paul VanRaden, Zengting Liu, Herwin Eding, Stephanie McKay, Katrine Haugaard, Martin H. Lidauer, Esa A. Mantysaari, Ismo Stranden
Summary: This paper provides an overview of different methods and computational approaches for calculating reliability, from the animal model era to the single-step genomic model era. It also discusses the challenges faced in reliability computation and presents efficient and accurate algorithms developed recently for large-scale genomic evaluations.
JOURNAL OF DAIRY SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Diana Giannuzzi, Lucio Flavio Macedo Mota, Sara Pegolo, Franco Tagliapietra, Stefano Schiavon, Luigi Gallo, Paolo Ajmone Marsan, Erminio Trevisi, Alessio Cecchinato
Summary: The study used milk FTIR spectra and ML algorithms to develop prediction equations for 29 blood metabolites in dairy cows. The ML algorithms achieved more accurate performance compared to the traditional method of partial least squares regression.
JOURNAL OF DAIRY SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Elisabeth Morales-Gonzalez, Beatriz Villanueva, Miguel a. Toro, Jesus Fernandez
Summary: The Optimal Contribution (OC) method is the consensus method for maintaining genetic diversity in both undivided and subdivided populations. In subdivided populations, this method maximizes global genetic diversity by determining the optimal contribution of each candidate to each subpopulation, while balancing coancestry levels between and within subpopulations. Inbreeding can be controlled by increasing the weight given to within-subpopulation coancestry (lambda).
MOLECULAR ECOLOGY RESOURCES
(2023)
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Christian Persichilli, Gabriele Senczuk, Loi Pasqualino, Debora Agata Anzalone, Riccardo Negrini, Paolo Ajmone Marsan, Licia Colli, Fabio Pilla, Salvatore Mastrangelo
Summary: Local breeds play important cultural and economic roles with genetic traits adapted to extreme conditions. Conservation measures are needed to protect and restore their genetic diversity and significant local products.
ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE
(2021)