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Lignans play a crucial role in maintaining plant growth, development, metabolism and stress resistance. Computed tomography (CT) imaging technology can be used to explore the internal structure and morphology of plants, and understanding the correlation between the two is highly significant. In this study, the content of lignan metabolites in coconut water was determined using liquid chromatography. The internal structure data of coconut fruit was obtained by CT scanning, and the relationship between lignan metabolites and CT image data at different developmental stages was evaluated using partial least square (PLS) regression. The results showed that the total lignan content in coconut water initially decreased, then increased, and gradually decreased after the maturity stage. The Wenye No. 5 variety exhibited higher levels of Epiturinol, Turbinol, Isobarinin-9′-o-glucoside, 5′-methoxy-rohanoside, Rohan rosin-4,4′-di-o-glucoside, turbinol-4-O-glucoside, cycloisoperinolin-4-O-glucoside compared to local coconuts. Coconut meat had the greatest effect on Rohan rosin-4,4′-di-o-glucoside, coconut water on Daphne, and coconut shell and coconut fiber on Larinin-4′-o-glucoside. The data from different parts of coconut fruit's images showed a significant correlation with the content of lignan metabolites. This study has preliminarily explored the correlation between non-destructive testing of coconut fruit and its development process of coconut fruit, providing a new approach and method for further research on non-destructive testing of coconut fruit development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Henan Agricultural Sciences is the property of Editorial Board of Journal of Henan Agricultural Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Simple Summary: Atractomorpha lata Motschoulsky (Orthoptera: Pyrgomorphidae) is a widespread phytophagous pest primarily found in the economic crop fields of Central Asian and Southeast Asian countries. Temperature plays a crucial role in determining its population growth and reproduction, and it is necessary to conduct in-depth research. We examined the developmental period of each stage and the number of eggs laid by female adults from the Yunnan Qujing population under different temperatures (16 to 32 °C). We calculated the developmental threshold temperature and effective accumulated temperature and constructed an age-stage-specific life table. The net reproduction rate (R0), total reproduction rate (GRR), and population trend index (I) were highest at 24 °C, which we identified as the optimal environmental temperature for the growth and reproduction of the Qujing population. Both high and low temperatures are not conducive to the survival and reproduction of its population. The results provide a scientific basis for predicting the potential distribution range, occurrence patterns in different regions, and field control strategies for this pest. Atractomorpha lata Motschoulsky (Orthoptera: Pyrgomorphidae) has recently emerged as an important agricultural pest in China. Understanding the impact of temperature on its developmental period is crucial for predicting its population dynamics. This study systematically observed the biological characteristics of A. lata at five temperatures (16, 20, 24, 28, and 32 °C) using the age-stage, two-sex life table method. The effects of temperature on the developmental period, survival rate, and fecundity of A. lata were studied using fresh bean leaves as host. The results demonstrated that as temperature increased from 16 °C to 32 °C, the developmental period, preadult time, adult longevity, adult preoviposition period (APOP), and total preoviposition period (TPOP) significantly decreased. The developmental threshold temperatures for various stages were calculated, ranging from 10.47 °C to 13.01 °C, using the linear optimal method. As temperature increased, both the intrinsic rate of increase (r) and the finite rate of increase (λ) also increased, while the mean generation time (T) decreased. The optimal values of the net reproductive rate (R0 = 54.26 offspring), gross reproductive rate (GRR = 185.53 ± 16.94 offspring), and fecundity (169.56 ± 9.93 eggs) were observed at 24 °C. Similarly, the population trend index (I) for A. lata peaked at 24 °C (61.64). Our findings indicate that A. lata exhibits its highest population growth rate at 24 °C, providing a scientific basis for predicting its population dynamics in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Starch is one of the most important quality characteristics of potatoes, which is widely used in the food, medical, petrochemical and other industries. The demand for starchy potato varieties in the market is increasing year by year. To explore the characteristics and key genes of starch accumulation and regulation of potato tuber, in this study, transcriptome profiling of creeping stems (a), pre-tuber expansion (b), mid-tuber expansion (c), late tuber expansion (d), and mature stage (e) of high and low starch potato cultivars DXY and DS1 were conducted by RNA sequencing analysis, and a total of 9494 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified at five stages. Binding function annotation revealed that the differential genes were mainly enriched in molecular functions such as binding and catalytic activity. Metabolic pathway analysis revealed that the differential genes were mainly enriched in carbohydrate-related metabolic pathways, and 137 DEGs were associated with starch and sucrose metabolism. Nine key genes regulating starch synthesis were examined, and the relative expression level of the sucrose synthase gene PGSC0003DMG400013547 was higher during growth period of DXY than that at any stage. The relative expression level of the fructokinase gene PGSC0003DMG400026916 was significantly higher in DXY than in DS1 during the a and b periods. The relative expression level of amylase gene PGSC0003DMG400009891, PGSC0003DMG400001549, and glucan endo-1,3-β-glucosidase gene PGSC0003DMG400024642, PGSC0003DMG400003181 in DS1 was significantly higher than that in DXY with in DXY with starch-rich cultivars during the c and e periods. The described gene might be a key regulatory gene for starch synthesis and accumulation. This study provides a clue for the investigation of the regulatory mechanism of tuber starch metabolism in different potato cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Sunset Yellow (SY) is an azo synthetic food dye. Although the amount of SY consumed varies in different periods of life, it increases especially in children and adolescents. It may cause pathologic effects in organs at early ages. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of SY on the liver and pancreas of mice of different age groups using histological methods. Methods The study included Swiss albino mice that were divided into three treatment groups and three control groups based on age (4, 8, and 10 weeks old), with six mice in each group (n = 6/group). SY was administered at 30 mg/kg/bw/week orally for 28 days to treatment groups. The liver and pancreas tissues were kept in 10% formaldehyde, then passed through alcohol and xylene series and stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin. Results They were evaluated using light and electron microscopy. In SY groups, the mean body weight (p: 0.026) and the mean liver weight (p: 0.013) of the mice increased, and their mean pancreas weight decreased (p: 0.045).The numbers of degenerative cells in the liver tissues of the mice in the SY groups were high. Severe dilation in the sinusoids and haemorrhages focused around the Vena Cava were detected. In the pancreatic tissues of the SY groups, increases in fibroblasts and lymphocytic infiltration were observed. Conclusions Pathologies interpreted as chronic pancreatitis were more intense in the weaning group (4 weeks old). SY may be more harmful at an early age, and it may be beneficial to limit its use during this period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignans play a crucial role in maintaining plant growth, development, metabolism and stress resistance. Computed tomography (CT) imaging technology can be used to explore the internal structure and morphology of plants, and understanding the correlation between the two is highly significant. In this study, the content of lignan metabolites in coconut water was determined using liquid chromatography. The internal structure data of coconut fruit was obtained by CT scanning, and the relationship between lignan metabolites and CT image data at different developmental stages was evaluated using partial least square (PLS) regression. The results showed that the total lignan content in coconut water initially decreased, then increased, and gradually decreased after the maturity stage. The Wenye No. 5 variety exhibited higher levels of Epiturinol, Turbinol, Isobarinin-9′-o-glucoside, 5′-methoxy-rohanoside, Rohan rosin-4,4′-di-o-glucoside, turbinol-4-O-glucoside, cycloisoperinolin-4-O-glucoside compared to local coconuts. Coconut meat had the greatest effect on Rohan rosin-4,4′-di-o-glucoside, coconut water on Daphne, and coconut shell and coconut fiber on Larinin-4′-o-glucoside. The data from different parts of coconut fruit’s images showed a significant correlation with the content of lignan metabolites. This study has preliminarily explored the correlation between non-destructive testing of coconut fruit and its development process of coconut fruit, providing a new approach and method for further research on non-destructive testing of coconut fruit development.

Atractomorpha lata Motschoulsky (Orthoptera: Pyrgomorphidae) has recently emerged as an important agricultural pest in China. Understanding the impact of temperature on its developmental period is crucial for predicting its population dynamics. This study systematically observed the biological characteristics of A. lata at five temperatures (16, 20, 24, 28, and 32 °C) using the age-stage, two-sex life table method. The effects of temperature on the developmental period, survival rate, and fecundity of A. lata were studied using fresh bean leaves as host. The results demonstrated that as temperature increased from 16 °C to 32 °C, the developmental period, preadult time, adult longevity, adult preoviposition period (APOP), and total preoviposition period (TPOP) significantly decreased. The developmental threshold temperatures for various stages were calculated, ranging from 10.47 °C to 13.01 °C, using the linear optimal method. As temperature increased, both the intrinsic rate of increase (r) and the finite rate of increase (λ) also increased, while the mean generation time (T) decreased. The optimal values of the net reproductive rate (R0 = 54.26 offspring), gross reproductive rate (GRR = 185.53 ± 16.94 offspring), and fecundity (169.56 ± 9.93 eggs) were observed at 24 °C. Similarly, the population trend index (I) for A. lata peaked at 24 °C (61.64). Our findings indicate that A. lata exhibits its highest population growth rate at 24 °C, providing a scientific basis for predicting its population dynamics in the field.

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Applied Entomology is the property of Chinese Journal of Applied Entomology, Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Mycosystema is the property of Mycosystema Editorial Board and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Oil Crop Sciences is the property of Oil Crops Research Institute of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Simple Summary: The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), has become a global agricultural pest. Reducing the rearing cost of FAWs will be helpful for developing new environmentally friendly management strategies for this pest. As such, we researched an artificial wheat-bran-based diet for FAWs. The biological indicators (developmental duration, pupal weight, reproductive parameters, and flight ability) of the FAWs fed this diet were consistent with those of FAWs fed a traditional artificial diet in a laboratory setting. The rearing cost of using this new diet was lower by nearly 24%. These findings indicate that this artificial diet, based on wheat bran, is suitable for rearing FAW larvae, which will effectively reduce the rearing cost of FAWs. Spodoptera frugiperda Smith (fall armyworm (FAW)) has invaded many countries in Africa and Asia in recent years, considerably restricting global agricultural production. In this study, we assessed the rearing performance of four artificial diets (D1: an artificial FAW diet based on wheat bran and soybean, maize, and yeast powders; D2: an artificial diet developed for Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner), based on wheat bran and soybean and yeast powders; D3: an artificial diet based on soybean powder; D4: an artificial diet based on wheat bran) for FAWs. We designed D4 based on a traditional diet (D2) but substituted the wheat bran for soybean and yeast powders. At 25 ± 1 °C, 75% ± 5% RH, and a 16:8 h L:D photoperiod, the larval stage of FAWs fed on D4 lasted 15.88 d, the pupal stage lasted 9.48 d, the pupal mass was 270.45 mg, the number of eggs deposited was 1364.78, and the mating rate was 89.53%. Most biological indicators of the larvae that were fed D4 were basically consistent with those of the larvae fed on the traditional diet (D2), but the intrinsic rate of increase (r), finite rate of increase (λ), and net reproduction rate (R0) of the D4 FAWs were lower than those of the D2 FAWs. The flight capacity (flight distance, duration, and velocity were 19.73 km, 6.91 h, and 2.90 km/h, respectively) of the D4 FAWs was comparable to that of the FAWs fed a traditional diet and maize leaves. Compared with the three other formulas, the cost of using D4 was lower by 26.42% on average. These results show that using cheap wheat bran instead of soybean flour and yeast powder as the basic material for an artificial diet for FAWs is feasible, which will substantially reduce rearing costs and promote the development of new controlling measures for FAWs. In addition, this study also has a reference value for reducing the cost of artificial diets for other insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Dortus primarius (Distant) (Hemiptera: Miridae) is a general predator reported from the oriental region. This bug is naturally found in many crop ecosystems where it feeds on thrips, aphids, insect eggs and other soft-bodied insects. Although, the rearing protocol of this predatory mirid has been developed, the efficiency of this predator as a biocontrol agent is limited and needs to be investigated. The thrips, Frankliniella schultzei (Trybom) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), is a polyphagous pest that attacks many crops in polyhouse in India. Therefore, in the present study, biology and functional response of this predator to different densities of F. schultzei larvae in the laboratory was investigated. Results The mirid predator was able to develop from egg to adulthood on tomato infested plant with F. schultzei larvae in 23–24 days with 15 and 11.76% mortality of 4th and 5th instar nymphs, respectively. Both 5th instar and female adults exhibited a type III functional response. At highest prey density (40) both 5th instar and female adults consumed 21.6 and 28.6 thrips larvae per day, respectively. Functional response parameters, viz. attack rate, handling time, a/T h and T/T h showed the potency of this predator against F. schultzei. Conclusion Based on the high fecundity, predation rate and density dependent behaviour, it is predicted that D. primarius might be an efficient and potential predator. However, further research is needed to assess its release rate and other ecological studies in the field situation.

Abstract Background Banana fruits are rich in various high-value metabolites and play a key role in the human diet. Of these components, carotenoids have attracted considerable attention due to their physiological role and human health care functions. However, the accumulation patterns of carotenoids and genome-wide analysis of gene expression during banana fruit development have not been comprehensively evaluated. Results In the present study, an integrative analysis of metabolites and transcriptome profiles in banana fruit with three different development stages was performed. A total of 11 carotenoid compounds were identified, and most of these compounds showed markedly higher abundances in mature green and/or mature fruit than in young fruit. Results were linked to the high expression of carotenoid synthesis and regulatory genes in the middle and late stages of fruit development. Co-expression network analysis revealed that 79 differentially expressed transcription factor genes may be responsible for the regulation of LCYB (lycopene β-cyclase), a key enzyme catalyzing the biosynthesis of α- and β-carotene. Conclusions Collectively, the study provided new insights into the understanding of dynamic changes in carotenoid content and gene expression level during banana fruit development.

It is plausible that peer aggression—like general forms of aggression—is transmitted from one generation to the next. As such, parental behavior in childhood and adolescence may be associated with offspring aggressive behavior against peers. This study used 1970 British Cohort Study data to test intergenerational transmission of peer aggression. The baseline sample consisted of 13,135 participants. At the first assessment that was used in this study, participants were on average 4.95 years old (SD = 0.79; 48.20% female). At the last assessment, participants were on average 33.88 years old (SD = 0.36; 52.1% female). Models were computed for early and middle childhood, and adolescence. Significant associations between parents' and offspring peer aggression were found in most models – especially when correlating aggression in similar developmental periods for parents and children. Other transmission mechanisms such as genetic transmission may be relevant and should be taken into account in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, ethyl acetate extracts of six botanicals were extracted by continuous hot percolation process in Soxhlet apparatus and evaluated to study the antifeedant, insecticidal and the growth and development inhibitory activity on second instar larvae of diamond back moth Plutella xylostella L. The results showed that the Sesbania grandiflora at 5% exhibited maximum antifeedant index (34.27%) followed by Swietenia macrophylla 5% (28.91%). Extracts of these plants were also found to be the most effective against larvae giving 76.67 and 23.33% mortality, respectively. The adult emergence was 23.33 and 26.67%, respectively with these, while developmental period did not reveal any significant differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laboratory experiment was conducted to study the biology of coccinellid predators from agroecosystems of Odisha. About 17 species were identified, the most important being Coccinella septempunctata, Coccinella transversalis and Cheilomenes sexmaculata predating on aphids infesting cowpea. The biology of these when evaluated indicated that C. septempunctata was the largest, and C. sexmaculata the smallest; grubs of all the three are susceptible to the rising temperature. The total developmental period was maximum during January and the least during May for all species. Total larval period was 11.9± 2.34, 12.1± 6.19 and 12.6± 0.01 days in January and 8.2± 0.07, 7.00± 0.01 and 7.9± 0.06 during May with C. septempunctata, C. transversalis and C. sexmaculata, respectively; developmental periods for these were observed to be 22.4± 0.67, 20.2± 1.46 and 17.4± 0.82 days during January, and 15.2± 0.01, 11.5± 0.39 and 12.3± 0.61 days during May, respectively. Prepupae and pupae were the least affected by the fluctuations in temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bean flower thrips, Megalurothrips usitatus is a major pest of mung bean that causes flower dropping and significant yield loss of the crop. M. usitatus demonstrated to have variable lifespan when reared on different leguminous hosts but on mung bean, an important pulse crop in Bangladesh, is unknown. The experiment was conducted to determine the biological attributes of M. usitatus on mung bean in a climate control chamber at 26 ± 1°C, 75 ± 3% RH, and 16:8 hours L:D in the laboratory. The results revealed that the incubation period, first instar larva, second instar larva, prepupa, and pupal period of M. usitatus were 3.13 ± 0.06, 1.48 ± 0.05, 2.30 ± 0.08, 1.30 ± 0.07, and 2.26 ± 0.13 days, respectively. The combined developmental period from egg to adult was 10.54 ± 0.15 (mean ± SE) days. The larvae of M. usitatus were similar in appearance to the adults, but they lacked wings and were smaller and different in color. The first instar was pale yellow, while the second instar was darker and larger, ranging from deep yellow to orange-red. The wing pads of the prepupae were shorter than that of the pupae. The antennae of the prepupa were straight, but they were bent in the pupa. In the case of pre-adult mortality of M. usitatus, the mortality of the first instar larva was 14.41%, second instar larva 22.77%, prepupa 14.10%, and pupa 65.67%. The pre-adult mortality was 80.51% overall. Adult males had lower longevity (6.42 ± 0.44 days) than females (12.07± 1.56 days). The developmental period of M. usitatus on mung bean indicated the suitability of the leguminous crop as a potential host, as well as the need for information on the pest’s various growth stages in order to design effective management strategies.

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Applied Entomology is the property of Chinese Journal of Applied Entomology, Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this study, the carotenoid profiles and content in 132 cultivars of yellow-flesh peach having different fruit developmental periods (short, middle, and long), fruit surface indumenta (glabrous and pubescent skin), and flesh colors (yellow, golden, and orange) were investigated. We simultaneously analyzed and compared the levels of five carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin, α-carotene, and β-carotene) through high-performance liquid chromatography. Large differences in carotenoid content among germplasms were observed, with coefficients of variation ranging from 21.24% to 67.78%. The carotenoid content, from high to low, was as follows: β-carotene > zeaxanthin > α-carotene > β-cryptoxanthin > lutein. We screened several varieties with high carotenoid content, including zeaxanthin in 'Ruiguang2', β-cryptoxanthin in 'NJN76' and 'TX4F244C', and β-carotene and total carotenoids in 'Jintong7', '77-26-7', and '77-20-5'. A longer fruit developmental period was associated with greater β-carotene accumulation but lowered the zeaxanthin and β-cryptoxanthin accumulation. The zeaxanthin, β-carotene, and total carotenoid concentrations significantly increased as the flesh color deepened, but the lutein and α-carotene levels remained similar among the three flesh colors. The classification index of the indumenta significantly affected the β-carotene and total carotenoid content (p < 0.05) and was higher in pubescent than glabrous skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotics are widely prescribed for mothers in the peripartum period today. Approximately 40% of pregnant women at term are exposed to antibiotics. Antibiotics are useful against infectious conditions such as chorioamnionitis; however, they alter the maternal microbiome. The maternal microbiome, particularly the gut microbiome, is transmitted to their neonates and is one of the major sources that shape the child's gut microbiome. The gut microbiome early in life plays a crucial role in the development of the gut microbiome itself as well as the host health over the entire life. Microbes structure the commensal ecosystem in the host. Simultaneously, microbial components and metabolites influence the host organ functions including the immune system, and vice versa, the various factors of the host impact the microbiome. The alterations of the gut microbiome induced by antibiotics in mothers can lead to gut dysbiosis in children eventually resulting in chronic disease conditions including immune disorders. Knowledge of the lasting impacts of maternal peripartum exposure to antibiotics on the gut microbiome and health in offspring and reconsideration of the adequate use of antibiotics in clinical practice are needed. Avoiding and restoring neonatal dysbiosis following maternal antibiotics-induced dysbiosis could be a new preventive strategy for various diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotics are widely prescribed for mothers in the peripartum period today. Approximately 40% of pregnant women at term are exposed to antibiotics. Antibiotics are useful against infectious conditions such as chorioamnionitis; however, they alter the maternal microbiome. The maternal microbiome, particularly the gut microbiome, is transmitted to their neonates and is one of the major sources that shape the child's gut microbiome. The gut microbiome early in life plays a crucial role in the development of the gut microbiome itself as well as the host health over the entire life. Microbes structure the commensal ecosystem in the host. Simultaneously, microbial components and metabolites influence the host organ functions including the immune system, and vice versa, the various factors of the host impact the microbiome. The alterations of the gut microbiome induced by antibiotics in mothers can lead to gut dysbiosis in children eventually resulting in chronic disease conditions including immune disorders. Knowledge of the lasting impacts of maternal peripartum exposure to antibiotics on the gut microbiome and health in offspring and reconsideration of the adequate use of antibiotics in clinical practice are needed. Avoiding and restoring neonatal dysbiosis following maternal antibiotics-induced dysbiosis could be a new preventive strategy for various diseases.

Copyright of Anadolu Tarım Bilimleri Dergisi is the property of Ondokuz Mayis Universitesi, Ziraat Fakultesi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Dortus primarius (Distant) (Hemiptera: Miridae) is a general predator reported from the oriental region. This bug is naturally found in many crop ecosystems where it feeds on thrips, aphids, insect eggs and other soft-bodied insects. Although, the rearing protocol of this predatory mirid has been developed, the efficiency of this predator as a biocontrol agent is limited and needs to be investigated. The thrips, Frankliniella schultzei (Trybom) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), is a polyphagous pest that attacks many crops in polyhouse in India. Therefore, in the present study, biology and functional response of this predator to different densities of F. schultzei larvae in the laboratory was investigated. Results: The mirid predator was able to develop from egg to adulthood on tomato infested plant with F. schultzei larvae in 23–24 days with 15 and 11.76% mortality of 4th and 5th instar nymphs, respectively. Both 5th instar and female adults exhibited a type III functional response. At highest prey density (40) both 5th instar and female adults consumed 21.6 and 28.6 thrips larvae per day, respectively. Functional response parameters, viz. attack rate, handling time, a/Th and T/Th showed the potency of this predator against F. schultzei. Conclusion: Based on the high fecundity, predation rate and density dependent behaviour, it is predicted that D. primarius might be an efficient and potential predator. However, further research is needed to assess its release rate and other ecological studies in the field situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Aim: To investigate if treadmill exercise (Ex) associated with fish oil (FO) supplementation during lactation would influence the biochemical profile as well as the oxidative balance in the hearts of male juvenile rats. Methods: Fifteen days-old rats were submitted to a daily moderate Ex training (based on their maximal running capacity) and FO supplementation for 4 weeks. Forty-eight hours after the last exercise session, blood fasting glucose and lipid profile were assessed according to the manufacturer's recommendations, while the oxidative status of the hearts was evaluated via colorimetric and absorbance-based assays. Results: FO associated with Ex decreased triglycerides (TG-79.27 ± 5.75 to 60.24 ± 6.25 mg/dL) and very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (VLDL-15.85 ± 1.15 to 12.05 ± 1.25 mg/dL) when compared to sedentary animals. FO, alone, reduced atherogenic index (AI- 1.14 ± 0.03 vs. 1.01 ± 0.04 a.u) while increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-43.90 ± 2.50 vs. 59.43 ± 3.15 mg/dL) of sedentary animals. Additionally, both Ex (67.3 ± 13.5 nmol/mg prot) and FO supplementation (56.6 ± 5.5 nmol/mg prot) decreased the oxidative damage to lipids in non-trained animals (105.8 ± 10.8 nmol/mg prot). The interventions also protected the protein content from oxidative stress (Ex- 5.15 ± 0.46; FO- 4.5 ± 0.5; and vehicle sedentary-7.3 ± 0.6 µmol/mg prot), while increasing the antioxidant defense and oxidative metabolism. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that intervention in juvenile rats can improve cardiac metabolism. These are the first findings to show the positive effects of the association between FO and moderate treadmill Ex during the critical period of development. We believe these results can drive early-life origins of heart disease through different avenues and, possibly, assist the development of a heart disease prevention program as well as an adjunctive therapeutic resource.

Background: Banana fruits are rich in various high-value metabolites and play a key role in the human diet. Of these components, carotenoids have attracted considerable attention due to their physiological role and human health care functions. However, the accumulation patterns of carotenoids and genome-wide analysis of gene expression during banana fruit development have not been comprehensively evaluated. Results: In the present study, an integrative analysis of metabolites and transcriptome profiles in banana fruit with three different development stages was performed. A total of 11 carotenoid compounds were identified, and most of these compounds showed markedly higher abundances in mature green and/or mature fruit than in young fruit. Results were linked to the high expression of carotenoid synthesis and regulatory genes in the middle and late stages of fruit development. Co-expression network analysis revealed that 79 differentially expressed transcription factor genes may be responsible for the regulation of LCYB (lycopene β-cyclase), a key enzyme catalyzing the biosynthesis of α- and β-carotene. Conclusions: Collectively, the study provided new insights into the understanding of dynamic changes in carotenoid content and gene expression level during banana fruit development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growth and reproduction are the two most basic life processes of organisms and the distribution of energy in these processes is a core issue of the life history of organisms. Nilaparvata lugens (Stål), the brown planthopper (BPH), is a single-feeding rice pest. In the present study, this species was used as a model for testing the effects of nutritional conditions on various growth and reproduction indicators. First, the third-instar nymphs were fed with three different concentrations (100, 50, and 25%) of artificial diet until the second day of adulthood. The results showed that as the nutrient concentration decreased, the body development and oviposition of BPH were hindered. The total lipid content in the fat bodies was also significantly reduced. RT-PCR analysis showed compared to the 100% concentration group, the expression levels of vitellogenin (Vg) genes in the fifth-instar nymphs, adults, and in different tissues (ovary, fat body, and other tissues) were significantly decreased in the 50 and 25% treatment groups. Western blot analysis showed that Vg protein expression was highest in the 100% group, followed by the 50% group, with no expression in the 25% group. These results indicate that growth and reproduction in the BPH are regulated by, or correlated with, nutrient concentration. This study is of great significance as it reveals the adaptive strategies of the BPH to nutritional deficiencies and it also provides valuable information for the comprehensive control of this pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulse beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (Bruchidae: Coleoptera), commonly known as Cowpea weevil or Cowpea seed beetle is a pest of stored grain that attacks legumes in the field and stored conditions. An investigation was conducted for screening the developmental preference of Callosobruchus maculatus in different legumes. Five different legumes were used with three replications in Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The grains of legumes were obtained from the local market of Dera Ghazi Khan. Two pairs of adult (C. maculatus) were inoculated in 20 g seeds of different legumes. Statistics on egg count, egg-laying preference percentage, hatching percentage, incubation period, larval + pupal period, total developmental period (from egg to adult), male and female population, total adult emergence, No. of holes in seeds and seeds weight loss percentage was recorded. The outcomes of this study represented that red kidney bean grains (22.54%) contained more egg-laying preference for C. maculatus as compared to other tested legumes while desi chickpea grains (14.53%) had a lesser ovipositional preference. Minimum growth period was recorded on mung bean (22.66 days), followed by cowpea (24.33 days), kabuli chickpea (27 days) and desi chickpea (30.33 days). But there was (0.0 days) no growth of C. maculatus on red kidney bean grains. In short, smooth seed coat and well-filled seeds were most preferred by C. maculatus for egg-laying, short developmental time, maximum adult emergence and increased holed seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluation of 36 genotypes (released and pre-released) for resistance to Caryedon serratus (Olivier) has been done in this study. The biological (oviposition, survival, mean development period and weight loss) and physical parameters (pod length, width, shell thickness and weight) were observed. The genotypes were grouped into resistant (ALR 1 and ALR 2), moderately resistant (32 Nos.) and moderately susceptible (2 Nos.) based on the Susceptibility Index (SI). The physical and biological parameters have been correlated with SI. Oviposition was less in TMV 7 and more in VG 17016 genotypes. ALR 1 and TMV 14 registered the least and maximum % survival, respectively. Mean development period was the least in VRI 4 and maximum in ALR 1. Maximum weight loss was found in VRI 5 and minimum in ALR 1. Egg count exhibited positive relationship with all physical parameters but no relationship with SI. Survival had significant negative correlation with pod length and shell thickness; whereas it showed positive correlation with SI. Mean developmental period witnessed no relationship with physical parameters and negative relationship with SI, while weight loss showed strong correlation with pod width and SI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study was designed to find out the optimum cold storage temperature (4, 7, and 10 °C) and storage period (1–16 weeks) of 3 different immature developmental stages (2, 4, 6 days post parasitism) of the egg parasitoid, Trichogrammatoidea bactrae Nagaraja (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) to produce high-quality individuals to be utilized. Also, the effects of cold storage on parasitoids’ fitness in terms of parasitism percentage, developmental period, adults’ emergence percentage, female percentage, and longevity (fed and un-fed) of parents and F1 progeny were investigated. The obtained results revealed that T. bactrae larvae (2-day post parasitism) could be stored for at least 7 weeks at 10 °C, with least changes in their fitness in both the parents and F1 progeny, followed by 7 °C, whereas storage at 4 °C was the fatal temperature in this early stage of parasitoid with a maximum mortality rate that extended to the next generation (F1). Furthermore, female biased sex ratios were observed at all storage temperatures in the parental and F1 generations but with different values. After a cold exposure of pre- and pupal stages (4, 6 days post parasitism) of the parasitoid at 7 °C, adults’ emergence percentage in the parents was low, but the biological performance in progeny was great. In addition, these late stages could be stored for a short period up to 4 weeks at 10 °C with highest performances in both generations, followed by 7 °C. Ten degrees Celsius proved to be the most suitable storage temperature at different parasitoid ages (larvae, pre-pupae, and pupae). Only the larval stage could continue up to 16 weeks of cold storage, and hence, it can be recommended for a short- and/or a long-term storage period.

Growth and reproduction are the two most basic life processes of organisms and the distribution of energy in these processes is a core issue of the life history of organisms. Nilaparvata lugens (Stål), the brown planthopper (BPH), is a single-feeding rice pest. In the present study, this species was used as a model for testing the effects of nutritional conditions on various growth and reproduction indicators. First, the third-instar nymphs were fed with three different concentrations (100, 50, and 25%) of artificial diet until the second day of adulthood. The results showed that as the nutrient concentration decreased, the body development and oviposition of BPH were hindered. The total lipid content in the fat bodies was also significantly reduced. RT-PCR analysis showed compared to the 100% concentration group, the expression levels of vitellogenin (Vg) genes in the fifth-instar nymphs, adults, and in different tissues (ovary, fat body, and other tissues) were significantly decreased in the 50 and 25% treatment groups. Western blot analysis showed that Vg protein expression was highest in the 100% group, followed by the 50% group, with no expression in the 25% group. These results indicate that growth and reproduction in the BPH are regulated by, or correlated with, nutrient concentration. This study is of great significance as it reveals the adaptive strategies of the BPH to nutritional deficiencies and it also provides valuable information for the comprehensive control of this pest.

Spodoptera frugiperda Smith (fall armyworm (FAW)) has invaded many countries in Africa and Asia in recent years, considerably restricting global agricultural production. In this study, we assessed the rearing performance of four artificial diets (D1: an artificial FAW diet based on wheat bran and soybean, maize, and yeast powders; D2: an artificial diet developed for Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner), based on wheat bran and soybean and yeast powders; D3: an artificial diet based on soybean powder; D4: an artificial diet based on wheat bran) for FAWs. We designed D4 based on a traditional diet (D2) but substituted the wheat bran for soybean and yeast powders. At 25 ± 1 °C, 75% ± 5% RH, and a 16:8 h L:D photoperiod, the larval stage of FAWs fed on D4 lasted 15.88 d, the pupal stage lasted 9.48 d, the pupal mass was 270.45 mg, the number of eggs deposited was 1364.78, and the mating rate was 89.53%. Most biological indicators of the larvae that were fed D4 were basically consistent with those of the larvae fed on the traditional diet (D2), but the intrinsic rate of increase (r), finite rate of increase (λ), and net reproduction rate (R0) of the D4 FAWs were lower than those of the D2 FAWs. The flight capacity (flight distance, duration, and velocity were 19.73 km, 6.91 h, and 2.90 km/h, respectively) of the D4 FAWs was comparable to that of the FAWs fed a traditional diet and maize leaves. Compared with the three other formulas, the cost of using D4 was lower by 26.42% on average. These results show that using cheap wheat bran instead of soybean flour and yeast powder as the basic material for an artificial diet for FAWs is feasible, which will substantially reduce rearing costs and promote the development of new controlling measures for FAWs. In addition, this study also has a reference value for reducing the cost of artificial diets for other insects.

Here, we reared the loquat psyllid, Cacopsylla biwa Inoue (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) at different temperatures to examine the effects of temperature on their development. Cacopsylla biwa successfully developed in the 10–25 °C range, and the optimal temperature range from oviposition to adult emergence was 10–20 °C. The developmental zero (T0) and effective accumulative temperature (k) for the development of eggs and oviposition to adult emergence were 7.0 °C and 127°-days, and 6.5 °C and 521°-days, respectively. Based on these values, the number of annual generations of C. biwa in Tokushima prefecture in the 2016–2017 was estimated to be 7 without reproductive diapause, developmental delay due to high temperatures, and pre-oviposition period. We also conducted a field study to monitor the occurrence of C. biwa adult using yellow sticky traps. During the occurrence period of the 3rd–6th generations after summer diapause, the data estimated laboratory experiments were consistent with the observed data in the field. However, the occurrence periods of the 1st–2nd generation and the 7th generation could not be confirmed owing to unclear peaks of caught adults. Based on the findings of our rearing experiments, the low density observed in the field may have been due to developmental delays caused by high temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum) is the major insect pest of store grain, and its single larvae can attack 88 grains during its life which leads to a considerable loss of quality and viability of grain. Therefore, to manage this insect pest present research was designed to check the effects of different colours of lights on the developmental stages of red flour beetle and their attraction on lights. Six (White, Yellow, Red, Green, Blue and Black) colours of light were used in the present experiment at 30±2oC and 60%±10% relative humidity (RH). Results revealed that a longer incubation period (4.17±0.18, less hatching (78.66±0.50%) and highest mortality (21.34±1.11%) of T. castaneum eggs were observed on blue light, while a short incubation period (3.03±0.51), highest hatching (89.99±1.92%) and lowest mortality (10.01±0.22%) were observed on white colour of light. However, a longer duration (32.01±0.15, 12.33±0.31) and maximum (28.10±2.50 ,14.66±0.52) mortality of T. castaneum was found in larval and pupae stages on blue colour of light, while a short duration (21.27±0.27, 7.33±0.13) and minimum (8.30±2.5, 8.00±0.65) larval and pupal mortality (%) were seen by red and yellow colour of lights. Similarly, an adult’s longevity significantly reduced (48.33±1.76) when beetles were exposed on blue light, whereas a significant (62.33±1.66) increase in adult longevity was found on white colour of light. A highest (33.33±0.56) attraction of red flour beetle was found on red colour of light, whereas, a lowest attraction was observed on blue (6.00±0.85) and black (10.00±1.55) colours of lights.

In this study, the carotenoid profiles and content in 132 cultivars of yellow-flesh peach having different fruit developmental periods (short, middle, and long), fruit surface indumenta (glabrous and pubescent skin), and flesh colors (yellow, golden, and orange) were investigated. We simultaneously analyzed and compared the levels of five carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin, α-carotene, and β-carotene) through high-performance liquid chromatography. Large differences in carotenoid content among germplasms were observed, with coefficients of variation ranging from 21.24% to 67.78%. The carotenoid content, from high to low, was as follows: β-carotene > zeaxanthin > α-carotene > β-cryptoxanthin > lutein. We screened several varieties with high carotenoid content, including zeaxanthin in ‘Ruiguang2’, β-cryptoxanthin in ‘NJN76’ and ‘TX4F244C’, and β-carotene and total carotenoids in ‘Jintong7’, ‘77-26-7’, and ‘77-20-5’. A longer fruit developmental period was associated with greater β-carotene accumulation but lowered the zeaxanthin and β-cryptoxanthin accumulation. The zeaxanthin, β-carotene, and total carotenoid concentrations significantly increased as the flesh color deepened, but the lutein and α-carotene levels remained similar among the three flesh colors. The classification index of the indumenta significantly affected the β-carotene and total carotenoid content (p < 0.05) and was higher in pubescent than glabrous skin.

Chilocorus infernalis Mulsant was first time reported from Kashmir, in active association with plum scale, Parthenolecanium corni (Bouche). Developmental period of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, pupal instar and from egg to adult of the coccinellid predator when reared in laboratory on P . corni was 3.33, 3.66, 5.66, 7.33, 6.4 and 30.58 days, respectively. Rate of consumption of scale by 1st instar to adult beetle ranged 1.92-10.44 / day and 7.66 to 31.37/3 day by a single individual. Difference in rate of consumption at each stage was found statistically significant. The immature grub from 1st to 4th instar consumed a total of 22.55 and 70.66 scale per day and per 3 day, respectively. Rate of consumption by 4th instar was found more than the adult. A single beetle during its life time of 30.66 days consumed an average of 267.66 scales whereas total consumption of scales in the life time of a beetle was 417.64. At predator: prey ratio of 1:10, 1:15 and 1:20, difference in rate of consumption was found statistically non significant. Coefficient of correlation between prey density and rate of consumption was insignificantly correlated (r= 0.33 NS; d.f.= 34). Regression model between these two parameters was Y = 6.01 + 0.0944 x; R² = 11.2%. Per cent prey consumption however declined in relation to increasing prey density from 10 to 20. A strong negative correlation was found to exist between prey density and percent consumption rate (r = -0.84**; d.f. = 34). Regression equation between prey density and per cent prey consumption was established as y = 96.8 - 2.94 x; R² = 70.7%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adults and larvae of Dienerella argus (Reitter) (Coleoptera: Latridiidae) feed on fungi and are frequently found in indoor, moldy areas. The basic biology of this species, other than its feeding habits, has not been determined. In this study, the developmental parameters of the beetle were investigated using dried hyphae and conidia from three fungi that are common in living areas. The developmental periods of the beetle on Cladosporium cladosporioides, Penicillium citrinum, and P. decumbens were examined at 16, 20, 24, 28, 32 °C / 70–75 % RH under dark conditions. The low developmental threshold temperatures and thermal constants calculated from egg to adult emergence were 10.5 °C and 526 DD (degree day), 9.0 °C and 500 DD, and 10.9 °C and 370 DD on C. cladosporioides, P. citrinum, and P. decumbens, respectively. These developmental parameters indicate that these beetles can breed year-round in indoor areas that are in air-conditioned facilities.

The sap beetle Phenolia（Lasiodites）picta（MacLeay）（Coleoptera: Nitidulidae）is widely distributed in Asia, Australia, and Africa, but its basic biology has not been studied. In the present study, the seasonal prevalence of P.（L.） picta was investigated using banana bait traps in two regions, Minabe and Arida, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, from April to October 2015 and 2016. Adults of P.（L.）picta occurred from late April–late October in Minabe, and late April–early September in Arida, respectively. The presence of larvae was observed twice in May–July and August–October in Minabe, but only once in May–July in Arida. These results imply that P.（L.）picta is a bivoltine in Minabe. The beetles oviposit in leaf mold, and a successful artificial rearing method was established using banana fruit and leaf mold. The effects of long and short photoperiods（long photoperiod, 14.5L:9.5D; short photoperiod, 10L:14D）on the ovarian development of females during ‘larval and pupal’ and ‘adult’ stages, respectively, were also studied in the laboratory. Females reared with a long photoperiod across all stages had significantly higher percentages of ovarian development（77.3%）than those reared with a short photoperiod during either ‘larval and pupal’ stages（20.0%）or ‘adult’ stages（35.0%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Recent field survey in the last 3 years at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) showed that eight out of ten Lepidopteran caterpillars is Anomis Leona Schaus (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Some life cycle parameters of A. leona were investigated in the laboratory inside a growth chamber at an ambient temperature of 27 ± 3 °C and 70–80% relative humidity. The adult insect measures 15 – 20 mm in length with a dull brown colour and wings and the body are covered with scales. The detailed morphology of different larval stages of the insect was examined under binoculars microscope at every molt of the larvae. There were four larval instars and the forth instars exhibited marked colour polymorphism. The larvae measured 26.8 mm at full growth. The first and second larval instars feed on new reddish and green young cocoa leaves causing characteristic short holes on them while third and fourth larvae feed on entire leaves. The pupa is enclosed within a cocoon and when newly formed is purple in colour but later changed to a dark shinning brown colour. The insect undergo holometabolous development. The insect completed its life cycle in 26.3 days (range 24–30 days) from the egg stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]