Search Results (1,096)

Tibetan pigs are an important indigenous genetic resource on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, but their population history remains unclear. Here, we analyzed whole-genome resequencing data from 29 Tibetan pigs and 69 wild boars from different regions to investigate their genetic structure and origin. Population structure analyses showed that Tibetan pigs formed a distinct genetic cluster, but clear substructure was present among the four Tibetan pig groups. Demographic analyses indicated that all Tibetan pigs shared a similar deep ancestral background, whereas the Tibetan population from Tibet (TT) showed a distinct recent demographic trajectory relative to the other Tibetan pig groups. Model inference based on multidimensional site frequency spectra further supported a mixed origin of TT from northern and southern Asian wild boar-related ancestral components. In contrast, the other three Tibetan pig groups were best explained as lineages derived from TT after its formation. We also detected a persistent western Eurasian-related excess-sharing signal in TT, consistent with potential introgression. Selection scans identified candidate genes and pathways potentially related to hypoxia adaptation, cardiovascular function, and lung development. Full article

Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae), or medfly, is an invasive pest widespread in Argentina, where standardized management methods, such as cultural and chemical controls, are commonly implemented. The success in controlling medfly populations depends on implementing preventive, sustainable, long-term, and eco-friendly eradication/control strategies across all invaded environments. One strategy may involve augmentative biological control using parasitoids adapted to local conditions, such as Ganaspis pelleranoi (Brèthes) (Hymenoptera: Figitidae), a Neotropical-native parasitoid that mostly forages on tephritid larvae in a broad range of fallen fruit. Two hypotheses were tested in the current study: (1) G. pelleranoi females are more efficient in controlling medfly larvae infesting different fruits as the density of released females progressively increases, and (2) such parasitoid-induced host mortality capacity remains when host density is increased. Parasitism (reproductive effects) and additional host mortality (non-reproductive effects) were the indicator variables of parasitoid-induced host ability. Trials were performed in field cages (semi-field conditions) using two medfly-multiplier host fruit species, namely sour orange and peach, and with variations in both parasitoid release and host larval densities. Three major findings were highlighted: (1) G. pelleranoi females successfully parasitized host larvae on peach and sour orange, regardless of their strongly differing physical features, although medfly larvae in peaches were significantly more susceptible to the parasitoid; (2) medfly mortality significantly increased in both peach and sour orange relative to the gradual increase in released G. pelleranoi females, regardless of the increase in host density offered to parasitoids; and (3) G. pelleranoi females induced a substantially high host die-off rate when the additional mortality was added to the analysis, which was not revealed when parasitism alone was regarded as a medfly mortality variable. Such outcomes may provide relevant information for implementing an augmentative biological control against medfly using indigenous parasitoid species within an eco-friendly fruit fly pest management approach. Full article

Small-scale inland fisheries in the Amazon are critical for food security, yet their sustainability is increasingly threatened by overexploitation and environmental degradation. In data-limited contexts such as the northern Ecuadorian Amazon, the absence of continuous monitoring constrains the development of adaptive management strategies. This study develops an integrated socio-ecological baseline to support the establishment of fisheries agreements in five Indigenous communities of the Napo and Aguarico rivers. Through a participatory monitoring approach, we generated reproductive parameters (gonadosomatic index, fecundity, size at first maturity), population structure metrics, and length–weight relationships for key subsistence species across three hydrological phases. Reproductive investment exhibited marked seasonality, with peak gonadosomatic indices during rising waters in most species, identifying a critical period for protection. Life-history strategies ranged from high-fecundity periodic strategists to low-fecundity equilibrium species, implying differentiated vulnerability to harvesting. Community perceptions prioritized large migratory catfish and floodplain habitats, aligning with biological indicators of vulnerability. High performance in technical training demonstrated the feasibility of long-term local monitoring systems. By linking biological indicators with local ecological knowledge, this study proposes a pathway from baseline assessment to adaptive co-management. The framework presented here provides a transferable model for strengthening sustainability, governance, and food security in tropical small-scale fisheries facing persistent data limitations. Full article

Background/Objectives: The Black Caribbean population of Honduras, also referred to locally as Negro Inglés, constitutes one of the country’s nine recognized indigenous and Afro-descendant peoples. Predominantly settled in the Bay Islands and sections of the Caribbean coast, this community traces its ancestry predominantly to West Africa and has remained culturally and linguistically distinct for more than three centuries. Despite its demographic and historical relevance, no population-specific short tandem repeat (STR) database has been established for this group. Methods: Allele frequencies for 23 autosomal STR loci were characterized in 100 unrelated Black Caribbean individuals from the department of Islas de la Bahía. DNA was extracted from blood on FTA cards and amplified with the PowerPlex Fusion 6C System (Promega Corporation). Statistical parameters were computed using Genepop v4.2, Arlequin v3.5 and GDA v1.0. Results: A total of 241 distinct alleles were detected across all 23 loci (mean 10.48 ± 3.85 alleles/locus). Expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.6541 (D13S317) to 0.9350 (SE33), with a mean of 0.8150 ± 0.0664—values consistent with a population of predominantly West African origin. No locus exhibited a significant departure from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium after Bonferroni correction (α = 0.0022). The combined power of discrimination exceeded 99.9999% and the combined chance of exclusion surpassed 99.9999%. Conclusions: This first genetic characterization of the Honduran Black Caribbean population delivers an essential, population-specific reference dataset for forensic casework, paternity testing, and population genetics research. The data also deepen the understanding of Afro-descendant genetic diversity in Central America and constitute a critical step towards equitable forensic genetic services for all Honduran ethnic communities. Full article

The objectives of this paper were to assess the genetic diversity, population structure, genetic differentiation, and phylogenetic relationships among seven duck populations using 14 microsatellite (MS) markers. This paper included 176 individuals representing seven duck populations of Bangladesh: indigenous duck (BLD), Nageswari (NAG), Rupali (RUP), Jinding (JIN), Pekin (PEK), BAU Black and White (BWC), and BAU White (WHC). A total of 133 alleles were observed with a mean of 9.50 alleles per locus. Genetic diversity was evaluated using measures such as allele frequency, observed and expected heterozygosity, and Shannon’s information index with average values of 5.44 ± 0.31, 0.59 ± 0.02, 0.64 ± 0.02, and 1.28 ± 0.05, respectively. Population differentiation and inbreeding analysis (F-statistics) indicated moderate genetic diversity and a slight degree of inbreeding across populations. Analysis of molecular variance indicated that 75% of the total genetic diversity was attributable to the within-population variation, whereas 9% and 16% were attributed to the variation among individuals and population differentiation, respectively. Indigenous duck populations (BLD, NAG, and RUP) had a close genetic relationship with JIN ducks and an intermediate relationship with two crossbreds (BWC and WHC), and the highest genetic distance was observed with PEK ducks. Neighbor-joining phylogenetic analysis revealed that the Bangladeshi indigenous duck populations formed a single cluster, while the two crossbreds (BWC and WHC) and PEK exhibited their distinct genetic identities in separate clusters. Furthermore, structure analysis at K = 2 to 5 confirmed the distinct genetic architecture (ΔK = 4.00) of the studied duck populations. This paper provides important insights into genetic diversity measures and population differentiation that will be helpful in future genetic improvement, conservation initiatives, and the design of appropriate breeding programs. Full article

Mushroom use dates back to ancient times, and it currently remains significant among indigenous and urban populations as a medicinal option. Psilocybe species are suggested to modify emotions when administered in macro- or microdose form for the treatment of anxiety and depression, both often affected by a delayed onset and adverse effects of current pharmacological therapy. The objective of this study was to evaluate the anxiolytic and/or antidepressant-like effects of P. cubensis mushroom aqueous extract (PcAE) microdosing in mice using open-field and rota-rod tests, followed by plus-maze or forced swimming tests. We also evaluated changes in neuronal activity and dendritic maturation using electrocorticography (ECoG) and immunohistochemical techniques. The outcomes were compared with an effective macrodose of PcAE and antidepressant fluoxetine (FLX). For this study, mice were grouped as follows: (1) vehicle, (2) acute, and (3) repeated (10 days) PcAE microdosing (1 µg/kg); (4) single PcAE macrodose (1 g/kg); and (5) acute and (6) repeated reference drug fluoxetine (FLX, 10 mg/kg).The anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects using microdosing were similar to those observed with macrodoses of PcAE and FLX; significant dose- and/or time-dependent changes in the ECoG and dendritic maturation of hippocampus neurons were also observed, in addition to altered corticosterone levels. To conclude, P. cubensis mushroom promotes brain effects in mice after micro- and macrodosing, supporting its potential as a therapeutic alternative for mental health. Full article

Background: The literature shows inconclusive results from utilizing motivational interviewing (MI) in indigenous populations to address early childhood caries (ECC). Great Beginnings for Healthy Native Smiles (GBHNS) (NIDCR U01DE028508), a community focused oral health (OH) intervention, was utilized alongside adapted MI techniques to promote OH care and education at home. Methods: The intervention was conducted by local Community Health Representatives (CHRs) from the two partnered indigenous communities. Reflecting on the years-long MI training and CHRs’ concerns, GBHNS conducted post-intervention semi-structured interviews with all MI staff regarding their experiences with MI. This paper uses participant observation, semi-structured interviewing, and inductive and deductive qualitative coding and analysis. Results: Thematic analysis was used to explore lessons learned and future research recommendations for interventions considering the use of MI. Generally considered a person-centered approach, MI reinforces Western psychological frameworks and practices which may disrupt local communicative practices and values. Conclusions: Specifically, interdisciplinary pre-intervention community assessments are recommended to ensure acceptability, relevance and appropriateness through attention to local communicative practices. Full article

Rhododendron adamsii Rehder, also known as sagan dali, is one of the most valued northern rhododendron species of Siberia and Mongolia as both a medicinal and food plant. Its flowers are traditionally used by indigenous communities in daily life to prepare teas that are attributed with medicinal properties in local traditional medicine. However, the lack of reliable data on the chemical composition and bioactivity of R. adamsii flowers has limited their broader application and underscores the need for comprehensive studies to verify their beneficial properties. The application of liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry enabled the identification of fifty-four compounds in sixteen samples of different origins, with flavonoids representing the dominant group and belonging to various aglycone types. Among the identified metabolites were dihydroflavonols of the taxifolin series; flavonols of the myricetin, quercetin, and kaempferol series; as well as several minor flavonoid and non-flavonoid compounds. Thirty-seven of these compounds are reported for the first time in this species. The total phenolic content in R. adamsii flowers can reach 155.82 mg/g, of which up to 147.54 mg/g are flavonoids. The analysis revealed variation in both the qualitative profile and quantitative levels of individual compounds among different populations, suggesting the presence of distinct R. adamsii chemotypes. The preparation of flower tea was associated with high rates of flavonoid transfer into the decoction, particularly when pulverized raw material was used compared with unground or hand-ground samples. This was reflected in the enhanced antioxidant activity of the decoctions, which was maximal for pulverized flowers in in vitro assays against artificial and natural free radicals, as well as in nitric oxide scavenging and Fe²⁺-chelating tests. These results suggest that R. adamsii flowers and their tea represent a new possible source of flavonoids and after additional clinical evidence may serve as valuable antioxidant ingredients for the development of functional foods. Full article

In 2007, Ecuador ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities and introduced a national social programme to improve access and quality of life for people with disabilities. This study assessed disability prevalence and socioeconomic inequalities in three social protection outcomes: household visits, benefits received during visits, and official disability accreditation. A cross-sectional study analysed data from the 2014 national population-based survey, which showed a 3.84% disability prevalence. Overall, 37% of respondents reported at least one household visit among them, 77% received a benefit and 60% had official accreditation. Marked socioeconomic disparities expressed in absolute differences were observed. Visits were less frequent among individuals without formal education (AD: −30.41; 95% CI: −37.15, −14.09) and those in the poorest households (AD: −17.74; 95% CI: −23.01, −12.48). Participants with primary education were less likely to receive benefits (AD: −19.51; 95% CI: −32.83, −6.19), while Afro-Ecuadorian (AD: 20.07; 95% CI: 4.20, 35.95) and Indigenous individuals (AD: 19.61; 95% CI: 6.99, 32.24) were more likely to receive them. Conversely, those with basic education (AD: 21.38; 95% CI: 13.53, 29.23) were more often accredited than those with higher education. Although the programme has reached many individuals, access remains unequal. Full article

This scoping review critically synthesizes 34 studies (2015–2026) examining the metaverse’s role in fostering six core STEM competencies, moving beyond descriptive reporting to interrogate whether these technologies constitute genuine pedagogical transformation, whose learners are served or excluded, and how isolated interventions connect into lifelong learning pathways. Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, our analysis reveals that while technology literacy and collaboration appear in 91.2% of our selected studies, mathematical application is addressed in fewer than half (44.1%), raising unanswered questions about whether this pattern reflects an equitable distribution of mathematical learning opportunities across diverse learner populations—a question the current evidence base cannot answer but one that warrants urgent investigation. The evidence demonstrates substantial immediate learning gains through embodied presence and risk-free experimentation, yet a deeper reading suggests this often represents technological optimization of traditional goals rather than epistemological transformation. More troublingly, the concentration of inclusivity evidence on select populations—while rendering students with physical disabilities, Indigenous learners, and refugee students entirely invisible—reveals an equity paradox where immersive technologies may inadvertently amplify existing disparities. The absence of any longitudinal data linking short-term engagement to sustained STEM participation leaves the field’s claim to transformative impact unsubstantiated. This review argues for moving beyond fragmented interventions toward designing coherent, equitable learning pathways that fulfill the metaverse’s potential for all learners. Full article

The Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) “Oliva di Gaeta” is a type of Italian fermented table olive obtained through a spontaneous fermentative process (“Itrana” method) driven by the indigenous olives microbiota. Although the use of starter cultures may improve the fermentative process and the quality of the final product, this has been poorly investigated for PDO Gaeta olives. In this study, we evaluated the use of Lactiplantibacillus pentosus O17 as a starter culture for the production of Gaeta-like olives. Three fermentations were performed: a spontaneous process (according to PDO regulation, trial A), fermentation driven by Lpb. pentosus O17 (trial B), and O17-driven fermentation combined with different brine formulation (trial C). Physicochemical properties (i.e., pH, titratable acidity, salt, and total phenolic content) and microbial population (plate counting and metataxonomy) were monitored up to 180 days. Sensory and texture profiles were evaluated in the final product. Driven fermentations (trials B and C) led faster acidification and enhanced the microbial quality of table olives without altering the organoleptic features of Gaeta-like olives. Our study suggests that the use of a starter culture and a different brining method could improve the microbiological quality of Gaeta-like olives, while preserving the traditional identity and the sensory attributes related to this PDO product. Full article

This study investigates the genetic diversity, population structure, and adaptive differentiation of Yunnan native cattle (YNC) using whole-genome SNP data from 457 individuals, representing eight cattle populations and two closely related bovine species (Zhongdian yak and Dulong gayal). Genetic diversity analyses revealed a distinct latitudinal gradient from north to south, with the highest diversity observed in the northern Diqing (DQC) and Zhaotong (ZTC) populations. The observed population structure was largely consistent with geographic distribution, identifying distinct ancestral components and complex admixture patterns. Genome-wide selective sweep scans revealed several key candidate genes underlying local adaptation. Notably, GRIA4 and DUOXA2 were associated with cold tolerance in northern populations, and ST3GAL3 and MST1 were implicated in heat stress adaptation in southern populations. Genome-wide balancing selection analyses further detected significant loci, such as MGST1 and SLC36A1, where divergent haplotype frequencies reflected differential selective pressures on milk-related traits between northern and southern populations. Additionally, we detected signals of historical introgression from Zhongdian yak into DQC cattle, highlighting the introgressed gene SLIT3 as a potential candidate associated with high-altitude thermogenesis. Collectively, these results provide a comprehensive genomic framework for the management and conservation of indigenous bovine genetic resources in Southwest China. Full article

Background: The Pech ethnic group, comprising approximately 6024 individuals in northeastern Honduras, represents one of the country’s smallest indigenous communities with a rich cultural heritage extending to pre-Columbian times. Despite their historical significance, no population genetic studies have been conducted on this group, and population-specific databases are essential for accurate forensic applications. Methods: Allele frequencies for 23 autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) loci were determined in 100 unrelated Pech individuals (58 females, 42 males) from communities in the departments of Olancho, Colón, and Gracias a Dios. DNA was extracted from blood samples collected on FTA cards and amplified using the PowerPlex Fusion 6C System. Statistical parameters were calculated using Genepop v4.2 and Arlequin v5.3.2.2. Results: All loci exhibited substantial polymorphism. No statistically significant deviations from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium were detected after Bonferroni correction (α = 0.0022). Expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.4033 (TH01) to 0.8563 (FGA). The combined power of discrimination exceeded 99.9999%, and the combined chance of exclusion was 99.9999%. Conclusions: This study presents the first genetic characterization of the Pech population, providing essential reference data for forensic identification, paternity testing, and population genetics research. The dataset fills a critical gap in the Honduran forensic genetic infrastructure and contributes to understanding indigenous Central American genetic diversity, enabling accurate forensic analyses for individuals of Pech ancestry in compliance with CODIS and ESS standards. Full article

Background: The Garifunas are a distinctive Afro-indigenous community of Honduras, originating from the historical admixture of Island Carib, Arawak, and West African peoples in the seventeenth-century Caribbean. With an estimated 43,111 individuals residing primarily along the northern Atlantic coast. Their dual ancestral composition yields a genetic profile that differs meaningfully from those of other Honduran reference populations, consistent with pairwise FST comparisons with previously published Lenca and Tawahka datasets generated on the identical platform; yet no population-specific short tandem repeat (STR) reference dataset had previously been established. Methods: We genotyped 23 autosomal STR loci using the PowerPlex Fusion 6C System (Promega Corporation) in 100 unrelated Garifuna individuals (70 females, 30 males) sampled from three coastal settlements in the department of Atlántida: Triunfo de la Cruz, Ensenada, and Corozal. DNA was extracted from blood collected on FTA cards, and statistical parameters were computed using Genepop v4.2 and Arlequin v5.3.2.2. Results: A total of 217 distinct alleles were identified, with 5 to 19 alleles per locus (mean 9.43 ± 3.54). Expected heterozygosity (He) ranged from 0.6392 (D13S317) to 0.9010 (SE33), with a population mean of 0.7893. No locus deviated from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium after Bonferroni correction (α = 0.0022). The combined random match probability was approximately 1.9 × 10⁻²⁶, and the combined chance of exclusion reached 99.99999993%. Conclusions: This study provides the first Honduran Garifuna population-specific autosomal STR reference database for precise forensic likelihood ratio estimates, kinship assessments, and population genetic studies. The Garifuna’s high diversity—consistent with their West African and Amerindian ancestry—indicates the risk of systematic bias when non-specific databases are used. Full article

Background/Objectives: Non-indigenous species are increasingly reshaping Mediterranean marine ecosystems, particularly under ongoing climate warming. The rayed pearl oyster Pinctada radiata, a thermophilic species originating from the Indo-Pacific region, is one of the earliest and most successful invaders in the Mediterranean Sea and has recently established populations in the Adriatic Sea. Methods: This study integrates preliminary shell morphometric data with molecular genetic analyses based on mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and nuclear internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) markers to confirm species identity and examine patterns of genetic variation in comparison with other Mediterranean Sea regions and the Persian Gulf. Results: Phylogenetic analyses based on COI confirmed P. radiata as a distinct and well-supported monophyletic lineage, whereas the nuclear ITS2 marker showed limited resolution and interspecific overlap. Mediterranean and Adriatic populations showed low COI haplotype and nucleotide diversity and weak genetic structuring, consistent with recent colonization and secondary expansion, whereas Persian Gulf populations were more genetically diverse. Conclusions: Future studies should employ larger sample sizes and broader geographic sampling across both the Mediterranean Sea and the full native range of P. radiata, combined with high-resolution genome-wide nuclear markers, to better resolve connectivity and invasion dynamics. Full article