Article
Behavioral Sciences
Axelle Delaunay, Alice Baniel, Jules Dezeure, Alecia J. Carter, Guy Cowlishaw, Marie J. E. Charpentier, Elise Huchard
Summary: In species that give birth to one offspring at a time, most juveniles will experience the birth of a younger sibling. However, little is known about the transition to siblinghood in primates. This study examined the changes in mother-juvenile relationships during the transition using behavioral data from wild chacma baboons. The findings suggest that juveniles with a younger sibling seek more maternal attention and show signs of anxiety compared to those without. This indicates a potential mother-offspring conflict and sibling competition even after weaning, highlighting the importance of maternal resources in sibling relationships.
Article
Microbiology
Anais Biclot, Geert R. B. Huys, Rodrigo Bacigalupe, Kevin D'hoe, Doris Vandeputte, Gwen Falony, Raul Y. Tito, Jeroen Raes
Summary: The preservation methods used for stool samples can affect the richness and taxonomic diversity of gut anaerobes recovered from the samples.
Article
Medicine, Research & Experimental
J. Joubert, S. M. Meiring, C. Conradie, S. Lamprecht, W. J. Janse van Rensburg
Summary: In this study, the potential of streptokinase in treating acquired TTP in a Papio ursinus model was investigated. However, it was found that escalating doses of intravenous streptokinase had limited effect on resolving TTP phenotype in vivo, possibly due to limited activation of the baboon fibrinolytic system. Alternative animal models or thrombolytics should be considered for further research to establish proof-of-concept.
CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE
(2021)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Mami Oba, Shoichi Sakaguchi, Hong Wu, Yoshihiko Fujioka, Hitoshi Takemae, Hisako Oki, Megumi Kawai, Mai Shiokawa, Hiroshi Aoki, Yuka Fukase, Hiroo Madarame, Takashi Nakano, Tetsuya Mizutani, Makoto Nagai
Summary: A novel picornavirus was isolated from the faeces of a diarrhoeic cow, and its genome was sequenced and analyzed. The virus is closely related to bovine parechovirus and may represent a new species in the genus Parechovirus.
JOURNAL OF GENERAL VIROLOGY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Susanne Pahlow, Stefanie Hentschel, Peter Horbert, Cynthia Romero, Lydia Lehniger, Sascha Wagner, Jurgen Popp, Karina Weber
Summary: Introduction of a 3D-printed cartridge system for convenient and cost-efficient sample preparation from sputum for subsequent PCR detection. The system operates on pneumatic actuations with a closed design to minimize contamination risk. Enrichment of bacterial cells using amine-functionalized particles allows for intact and viable cells, suitable for various detection methods including PCR.
ANALYTICAL METHODS
(2021)
Article
Parasitology
Nikol Reslova, Lucie Skorpikova, Iveta Angela Kyrianova, Jaroslav Vadlejch, Johan Hoglund, Philip Skuce, Martin Kasny
Summary: The study developed two multiplex real-time PCR assays for rapid and accurate identification of gastrointestinal nematode species in ruminants, as well as semi-quantitative estimation of egg numbers. This approach showed higher sensitivity and specificity compared to traditional methods, improving diagnostic accuracy and allowing for more precise evaluation of anthelmintic efficacy.
PARASITES & VECTORS
(2021)
Article
Anthropology
Jules Dezeure, Julie Dagorrette, Alice Baniel, Alecia J. Carter, Guy Cowlishaw, Harry H. Marshall, Claudia Martina, Cassandra L. Raby, Elise Huchard
Summary: By studying the transition in skin and fur color of infant chacma baboons, it is possible to accurately estimate the age of infants under 7 months old. The study also shows that food availability during the mother's pregnancy, rather than during lactation, affects infant coloration and acts as a predictor of developmental pace.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Lucile Alexandre, Monica Araya-Farias, Manh-Louis Nguyen, Nikoletta Naoumi, Giacomo Gropplero, Electra Gizeli, Laurent Malaquin, Stephanie Descroix
Summary: Liquid biopsy, especially ctDNA analysis, has provided a new noninvasive approach to cancer diagnosis, treatment selection, and follow-up. A new generation of microfluidic fluidized beds (FBs) has been developed to efficiently extract and preconcentrate specific ctDNA sequences from human serum. These FBs, combined with vibration-induced flow rate fluctuations and a mixture of different bead sizes, significantly enhance bead homogeneity and capture efficiency.
MICROSYSTEMS & NANOENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Ecology
Ben J. Walton, Leah J. Findlay, Russell A. Hill
Summary: This study used GPS and accelerometer bio-loggers to track a group of baboons in crop fields in South Africa and found that the baboons tended to avoid the fields for most of the year, perceiving them as high-risk habitat. When they did visit the fields, it was usually when plant productivity was low, indicating crops were a backup food source. Activity levels were significantly higher in crop fields compared to the rest of the landscape, suggesting crop-foraging is energetically costly. Additionally, activity levels were lower near the field edges, indicating baboons may wait there to assess risks before entering the fields.
ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Marianna Marangi, Sabina Airoldi, Luciano Beneduce, Claudio Zaccone
Summary: The study found opportunistic pathogens, bacteria, and chemical pollutants in the fecal samples of free-ranging whales from the Pelagos Sanctuary in the Northern-Western Mediterranean Sea. More sequences related to Synergistetes and Spirochaetae were found in sperm whales compared to fin whales. Additionally, certain heavy metals were exclusively found in sperm whale fecal samples and others were only found in fin whale fecal samples.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2021)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Rebecca S. Taylor, Micheline Manseau, Bridget Redquest, Sonesinh Keobouasone, Patrick Gagne, Christine Martineau, Paul J. Wilson
Summary: Conservation genomics is a crucial tool for managing threatened species in the face of biodiversity loss. Recent advances in sequencing technology have enabled the extraction and re-sequencing of high-quality whole genomes from fecal DNA, as demonstrated in the case of caribou in Canada. This represents a significant advancement in non-invasive conservation genomics.
CONSERVATION GENETICS RESOURCES
(2022)
Article
Ornithology
Chun Ting Chung, Hok Sze Wong, Man Long Kwok, Qi Meng, King Ming Chan
Summary: DNA barcoding was used to analyze the dietary composition of House Swifts (Apus nipalensis) in Hong Kong, China, revealing ten different orders and 44 families from three different classes of Arthropoda in the collected faecal samples. Differences in dietary composition between breeding and non-breeding seasons were observed, with Hymenoptera dominant during breeding season and Diptera and Hemiptera dominant during non-breeding season. This study highlights the potential role of House Swifts in controlling local insect pests and the importance of conserving forested areas for their population maintenance.
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Anna Szczerba-Turek, Filomena Chierchia, Piotr Socha, Wojciech Szweda
Summary: This study identified Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in fecal samples from red deer and roe deer, and found serotypes and virulence profiles with potential pathogenicity to humans. The presence of STEC in wildlife feces poses risks to humans, animals, and agricultural production. The pathogenic potential of STEC strains isolated from wildlife should be monitored within the 'One Health' approach.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Changyoon Baek, Woo Jin Kim, JaeWoo Moon, Seo Yoon Moon, Wonsub Kim, Hae-Jin Hu, Junhong Min
Summary: Recent studies have found that the composition of human gut microbiota varies due to regional, racial, age, diet, living environment, sampling, and DNA extraction methods. This study aimed to study the intestinal microbial composition of Koreans by analyzing 78 samples using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. The results showed that two different DNA extraction kits yielded different microbiome compositions, and it is important to consider BMI values and Korean obesity criteria when interpreting the results.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
D. Zybin, A. Prostyakova, D. Kapustin
Summary: A one-step DNA isolation method from soil extracts was developed using a two-component bioseparating element, allowing for simultaneous purification of DNA from humic substances. This innovative approach improved DNA purity and isolation efficiency, providing a promising solution to the challenges faced in DNA isolation from soil samples.
MICROCHEMICAL JOURNAL
(2021)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Rae M. Smith, Antoinette Kotze, J. Paul Grobler, Desire L. Dalton
INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION
(2020)
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Zelda du Toit, Desire L. Dalton, Morne du Plessis, Raymond Jansen, J. Paul Grobler, Antoinette Kotze
JOURNAL OF GENETICS
(2020)
Article
Evolutionary Biology
Zhongning Zhao, Neil Heideman, Paul Grobler, Adriaan Jordaan, Phillip Bester, Margaretha D. Hofmeyr
JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL SYSTEMATICS AND EVOLUTIONARY RESEARCH
(2020)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Willem G. Coetzer, L. M. Coetzee, E. D. Cason, J. P. Grobler, S. R. Schneider, C. E. Boucher
Summary: This study conducted a preliminary exploration of the skin microbiome of pet shop zebrafish, finding no significant differences between different color morphs, and identifying a core microbiome in zebrafish housed in the laboratory.
INDIAN JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
N. Breytenbach, J. P. Grobler, H. Bindeman
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE
(2020)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Michelle Magliolo, Stefan Prost, Pablo Orozco-terWengel, Pamela Burger, Anna S. Kropff, Antoinette Kotze, J. Paul Grobler, Desire Lee Dalton
Summary: Cheetahs are listed as vulnerable due to threats such as habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and illegal wildlife trade. A validated SNP array was developed to monitor legal and illegal trade in South Africa, providing an important tool for accurate parentage assignment and forensic investigations. The array demonstrated high resolving power for individual identification and genetic discrimination of cheetah subspecies.
MOLECULAR BIOLOGY REPORTS
(2021)
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
R. M. Smith, A. Kotze, J. P. Grobler, D. L. Dalton
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE
(2020)
Article
Veterinary Sciences
Gernot Osthoff, Blake Beukes, Aletta C. Steyn, Arnold Hugo, Francois Deacon, Hendrik J. B. Butler, Frans H. O'Neill, J. Paul Grobler
Summary: The study provides a detailed analysis of the nutritional composition of white rhinoceros milk, showing high levels of lactose, protein, fat, and minerals. The fatty acid composition is unique, with individual variations in components. Additionally, comparisons with other Perissodactylae families reveal small differences in gross composition but distinct differences in specific fatty acid levels.
Article
Medicine, Legal
Anton Lucassen, Karen Ehlers, Paul J. Grobler, Charles H. Brenner
Summary: The CPI method used by the South African Police Service is almost ineffective in dealing with low template DNA cases, while the Mixture Solution provides stronger evidence for identifying suspects and excluding non-contributors by modeling mixture data as continuous. This approach utilizes more information and is applicable to a wider range of cases.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LEGAL MEDICINE
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Elmarie Blom, Willem G. Coetzer, Sue-Rica Schneider, J. Paul Grobler
Summary: Zebrafish from South African pet shops showed genetic similarities with fish from northern and north-eastern regions of India, illustrating high genetic diversity correlating with previous observations in zebrafish populations. These results can guide the development of laboratory lines suited to the needs at the University of the Free State.
MOLECULAR BIOLOGY REPORTS
(2022)
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
R. Jacobs, W. G. Coetzer, J. P. Grobler
Summary: This study assessed the phylogeographic structure of South African greater kudu populations and identified two distinct genetic clades. The most recent common ancestor of these clades was found to be older than other well-known African antelope species. Environmental selective pressures were also identified as potential drivers of evolution in the kudu population.
CONSERVATION GENETICS
(2022)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
M. Magliolo, V. N. Naude, V. C. van der Merwe, S. Prost, P. Orozco-terWengel, P. A. Burger, A. Kotze, J. P. Grobler, D. L. Dalton
Summary: In South Africa, the cheetah population is divided into free-roamers, managed metapopulation, and captive facilities. To preserve overall genetic variation, interventions such as genetic exchanges and supplementation with unrelated individuals are proposed. Simulation results showed that without intervention or with only genetic exchanges, there were significant losses of heterozygosity and an increase in the frequencies of close relatives. However, introducing individuals from captive facilities maintained genetic diversity and relatedness.
ANIMAL CONSERVATION
(2023)
Article
Biology
Christian M. M. Gagnon, Hannes Svardal, Anna J. J. Jasinska, Jennifer Danzy Cramer, Nelson B. B. Freimer, J. Paul Grobler, Trudy R. R. Turner, Christopher A. A. Schmitt
Summary: In the last 300 thousand years, the Chlorocebus genus expanded from equatorial Africa to the southernmost latitudes of the continent. The expansion is significantly associated with solar irradiance and winter precipitation, suggesting adaptations to non-shivering thermogenesis.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE ROYAL SOCIETY B-BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Microbiology
Anna J. Jasinska, Tien S. Dong, Venu Lagishetty, William Katzka, Jonathan P. Jacobs, Christopher A. Schmitt, Jennifer Danzy Cramer, Dongzhu Ma, Willem G. Coetzer, J. Paul Grobler, Trudy R. Turner, Nelson Freimer, Ivona Pandrea, Cristian Apetrei
