Hystrix Brachyura Research Articles

Potential anticancer agents identification of Hystrix brachyura bezoar through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry-based metabolomics and protein-ligand interaction with molecular docking analyses

BackgroundBezoar (PB) is a rare, solidified form of undigested food commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract of porcupine (Hystrix brachyura). It is believed to be traditionally used to treat various diseases including different kinds of cancers in Malaysia. However, its active principles have not been found out yet. The purpose of this study was to investigate the anticancer property of PB extract as well as to identify the metabolites responsible for its anticancer effect through a widely acclaimed metabolomics approach. MethodsInitially, 25 PB extracts using various solvent ratios of methanol–water (100, 75, 50, 25, 0% v/v) were prepared in regard to metabolomics approach and subsequently the cytotoxicity of each extract was determined against (melanoma) A375 cell line. The metabolites profiling of the most potent extract was conducted using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and in silico investigation was performed on Bcl-2 and cyclin/CDK1 complex protein. ResultsThe correlation of the bioactivity with GC–MS data produced an orthogonal partial least square (OPLS) model which pinpointed four putative active compounds namely (1) cholest-7-en-3-beta-ol,4,4-dimethyl-,acetate; (2) 4-androsten-4-ol-3,17-dione; (3) isolongifolol and (4) gallic acid. The in silico data suggested the binding score and binding mode of active metabolites with the amino acid residues of protein via hydrophobic interactions. ConclusionThis study is the first to report the identified anticancer compounds from PB extract and evaluate them using molecular docking. This further confirms and justifies its traditional usage as an alternative medicine for the treatment of cancer in Malaysia.

A Camera-Trap Survey of Mammals in Thung Yai Naresuan (East) Wildlife Sanctuary in Western Thailand.

The Thung Yai Naresuan (East) Wildlife Sanctuary (TYNE), in the core area of the Western Forest Complex of Thailand, harbors a diverse assemblage of wildlife, and the region has become globally significant for mammal conservation. From April 2010 to January 2012, 106 camera traps were set, and, in 1817 trap-nights, registered 1821 independent records of 32 mammal species. Of the 17 IUCN-listed (from Near Threatened to Critically Endangered) mammal species recorded, 5 species listed as endangered or critically endangered included the Asiatic elephant (Elephas maximus), tiger (Panthera tigris), Malayan tapir (Tapirus indicus), dhole (Cuon alpinus), and Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica). The northern red muntjac (Muntiacus vaginalis), large Indian civet (Viverra zibetha), Malayan porcupine (Hystrix brachyuran), and sambar deer (Cervus unicolor) were the most frequently recorded species (10-22 photos/100 trap-nights), representing 62% of all independent records, while the golden jackal (Canis aureus), clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa), marbled cat (Pardofelis marmorata), and Sunda pangolin were the least photographed (<0.1/100 trap-nights). Species accumulation curves indicated that the number of camera trap locations needed to record 90% of taxa recorded varied from 26 sites for herbivores to 67 sites for all mammals. TYNE holds a rich community of mammals, but some differences in photo-rates from an adjacent sanctuary and comparisons with other research on local mammals suggest that some species are rare and some are missed because of the limitations of our technique. We also conclude that the management and conservation plan, which involves the exclusion of human activities from some protected areas and strict protection efforts in the sanctuaries, is still suitable for providing key habitats for endangered wildlife populations, and that augmented and regular survey efforts will help in this endeavor.

IDENTIFIKASI KELIMPAHAN JENIS SATWA MANGSA HARIMAU SUMATRA (Panthera tigris sumatrae) MENGGUNAKAN KAMERA JEBAK DI RESORT TALANG LAKAT TAMAN NASIONAL BUKIT TIGA PULUH

Bukit Tiga Puluh National Park is one of the national parks in Indonesia used as a conservation area for the sumatran tiger. The existence of the sumatran tiger is not separate from the ability of forest areas to provide habitat components, such as sources of food, water, and shelter. This research aimed to identify the animal species and abundance of sumatran tiger prey species at Talang Lakat Resort, Bukit Tiga Puluh National Park. Data collected by camera trap as primary data and secondary data collected at the Bukit Tiga puluh National Park Hall. The data were analyzed using the formula of species abundance and encounter rate. Based on the data results, there are five types of sumatran tiger prey recorded by camera traps in 2020, such as Helarctos malayanus, Macaca nemestrina, Argusiana argus, Hystrix Brachyura, and Muntiacus muntjak. The prey species with the highest species abundance and RAI values ​​in 2020 were Macaca nemestrina with a species abundance value of 40% and RAI 14 photos/day, while the lowest species abundance values ​​were Helarctos malayanus with a value of 7% and RAI 5 photos/day.&#x0D;

Community structures of mid-sized to large-bodied mammals in tropical lowland and lower montane forests in Gunung Pueh National Park, Western Sarawak, Borneo

Habitat types are closely associated with altitude gradients in tropical rainforests and play an essential role in species assemblages where terrain heterogeneity is often used to understand effects of climate change on species distribution. The response of larger mammals to habitat variation along altitudes is largely unexplored in Borneo. This study has utilised camera traps to better understand the community structure of larger mammals in Gunung Pueh National Park. Gunung Pueh National Park (1550 m a.s.l.) contains two major habitat types, which include lowland forests (&lt; 1100 m a.s.l.) and the lower montane (&gt; 1100 m a.s.l.) forests. The spatio-temporal niches of mid-sized to large-bodied mammal species across these altitude gradients and habitats were assessed. Cameras located at 23 locations, along varying altitude gradients, resulted in 3109 trap nights. Using these cameras, the collected recordings have revealed a total of 22 mid-sized to large-bodied mammals, including 19 species recorded in lowland forest areas, and 18 species in the lower montane forest areas; 15 species were found in both habitats. Four species were exclusively detected in the lowland forest, namely Rusa unicolor, Viverra tangalunga, Presbytis chrysomelas, and Hystrix brachyura. Three species were detected only in the lower montane forest, namely Herpestes semitorquatus, Mustela nudipes, and Hemigalus hosei. In the lowland forest, Macaca nemestrina was recorded with the highest naïve occupancy (naïve ψ = 1.00), while Hemigalus derbyanus had the highest naïve occupancy (naïve ψ = 0.93) in the lower montane forest. The temporal diel activity patterns of selected species in the two habitats have shown relatively close similarities, with overlapping patterns ranging between 67–90%. The further conservation of a large area, which encompasses mountainous ranges, is recommended to facilitate the conservation efficacy of such Protected Areas and for supporting diverse, mid-sized to large-bodied mammals in Borneo.

Why we went to the woods?: effects of human disturbance on species presence in a disturbed Myanmar forest ecosystem

AbstractHuman activities are affecting habitats and wildlife populations worldwide. Tropical forests are one of the most affected environments, mainly due to deforestation and poaching. Since high levels of anthropogenic pressure on forest ecosystems, including illegal logging and hunting, occur in southwest Myanmar (Rakhine State), we analyzed the effects of human disturbance on medium to large mammals in this region. We used camera‐trapping data collected over three consecutive years to investigate occurrence probabilities of 10 species: five common species exploited for bushmeat consumption, and five threatened species targeted by the illegal wildlife trade. We used a hierarchical single‐species multi‐season occupancy model implemented in a Bayesian framework to evaluate the effects of human disturbances and persistent habitat characteristics, such as the proportion of remaining pristine evergreen forest and the elevation, on occurrence probabilities. We found that occupancy probabilities of three out of five target species for the illegal wildlife trade were positively linked to forest habitats, whereas among common species hunted for bushmeat consumption the Northern red muntjak and the Malayan porcupine were negatively affected by human presence. The effects of human and habitat covariates were varied for other species of both groups. We confirmed results from previous studies that human disturbance is a driver of occurrence probabilities for some species in tropical areas. Our findings suggest that as protection of rainforest habitat is fundamental to the conservation of tropical ecosystems, law enforcement, patrolling, and local engagement activities are also recommended to mitigate forest and species exploitation. Finally, camera trapping could be a first step to identify areas where human presence affects species occupancy and help local authorities to develop more fine‐tuned conservation plans.

Monitoring of diversity, abundance, activity period and habitat use of wildlife species around the wildlife corridor that connects the natural world heritage site of Thailand

Abstract. This study on the monitoring of the diversity and abundance of wildlife around the wildlife corridor area on Highway 304, which passes through Khao Yai and Thap Lan National Parks, was conducted during September 2017 and May 2021 using camera traps to constantly monitor the area. A total of at least 51 wildlife species from 30 families, 14 orders were recorded. The species with the highest abundances were Sambar Deer, Wild Boar, Northern Pig-tailed Macaque, Gaur, Northern Red Muntjac, Siamese Fireback, Malayan Porcupine, Red Junglefowl, etc. The wildlife species recorded include 2 critically endangered species, 3 endangered, 10 vulnerable, 1 near threatened. In this study we also recorded images of a Fishing Cat, which is the first photographically record in this World Heritage Site. The evenness index indicates that the wildlife community in the area is stable. No significant differences in the diversity and abundance of wildlife before or after the corridor construction were seen. The wildlife in the area were active throughout the day. We also found that the highway is the main factor effecting the presence of wildlife. The study results show the importance of this area that the highway passes through. Building wildlife corridors between the two national parks is very important for maintaining the wildlife community as well as continuity. Suggestions from the study include management of human activity in the area including traffic, noise, vehicle speed and living activities in the area that may attract wildlife closer to the community and cause other impacts.

Abundance, diversity and daily activity of terrestrial mammal and bird species in disturbed and undisturbed limestone habitats using camera trapping, Central Thailand

Abstract: Pla-ard M, Hoonheang W, Kaewdee B, Panganta T, Charaspet K, Khoiesri N, Paansri P, Kanka P, Chanachai Y, Thongbanthum J, Bangthong P, Sukmasuang R. 2021. Abundance, diversity and daily activity of terrestrial mammal and bird species in disturbed and undisturbed limestone habitats using camera trapping, Central Thailand. Biodiversitas 22: 3620-3631. This study on the abundance, diversity and daily activity of terrestrial mammal and bird species was conducted in the limestone mountainous area of Central Thailand, located on the east of Dong Phaya Yen-Khao Yai forest complex. Camera traps were placed in both habitats disturbed by limestone mining and undisturbed habitat areas. From the study, a total of 38 species of mammals and birds from 27 families in 13 orders were recorded, including 15 species of mammals from 6 orders, 12 families and 23 species of birds from 14 families in 7 orders. Fifteen species of mammals were recorded in the undisturbed area and 11 were recorded in the disturbed area, with the Malayan Pangolin, Small Indian Civet and Grey-bellied Squirrel found in the undisturbed area. However, the number of bird species in the limestone mining area was larger than in the undisturbed area. It was also found that there was no difference in the overall abundance and diversity of mammalian species between disturbed and undisturbed areas, which is not in accordance with the hypothesis. But in the case of wild birds, the relative abundance of wild birds was found to differ significantly between areas. A high number was found in the areas with mining activities, although there was no difference in the diversity index of the two areas. However, it was found that when the combined data was analyzed, there was a significant difference in the daily activity of both mammals and wild birds in both areas. Many rare wildlife species were recorded during this study, for example, the Malayan Pangolin, Serow, Northern Pig-tailed Macaque, Rufous Limestone-babbler, Golden Jackal, Leopard Cat, Large-toothed Ferret Badger, Small Asian Mongoose, Common Palm Civet, Small Indian Civet, Malayan Porcupine. The key measure proposed is to preserve some natural habitats within the areas with mining activities, as wildlife remains in the area.

Wildlife Crossings at Felda Aring - Tasik Kenyir Road, Malaysia

The Felda Aring - Tasik Kenyir Road was identified as one of the most threatening roads to wildlife in Malaysia. The present study was conducted to assess the road crossing activities involving the medium- to large-mammal species due to the problem stated. The objectives of this study were to (1) predict the suitability of the road and its surroundings as the roaming areas for the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus, n = 104) and Malayan tapir (Tapirus indicus, n = 66), (2) identify the mammalian species inhabiting the forest beside the road, (3) compare the forest’s common species [photographic capture rate index (PCRI) &gt; 10/ detection probability (P) ≥ 0.05] with the ones utilising the road crossing structures; the viaducts and the bridges, and (4) determine the most impacted species from traffic collisions. The road and its surroundings were classified as moderately suitable to the elephant and tapir (suitability values = 0.4 - 0.8). A total of 16 mammal species were recorded at the forest edges, in which the wild pig (Sus scrofa) (PCRI = 118.96, P = 0.3719 ± 0.027), barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak) (PCRI = 68.89, P = 0.2219 ± 0.0232), sun bear (Helarctos malayanus) (PCRI = 11.13, P = 0.0507 ± 0.0159), tapir (PCRI = 11.13, P = 0.0469 ± 0.0118), elephant (PCRI = 10.7, P = 0.0787 ± 0.0195) and Malayan porcupine (Hystrix brachyura) (PCRI = 10.7, P = 0.103 ± 0.0252) were the common species utilising the crossing structures. In contrast, the Asian palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) and leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis) were the most frequently hit species on the road [F(7,398) = 28.53, p &lt; 0.0005]. The present study found that large-mammal species were utilising the crossing structures at a higher frequency, whereas more medium-mammal species were involved in traffic collisions.

Spatial and temporal overlaps of top predators: Dhole, tiger and leopard, and their potential preys in Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, Thailand

Abstract. Charaspet K, Sukmasuang R, Khoewsree N, Pla-Ard M, Paansri P, Keawdee B, Chanachai Y, Bhumpakphan N. 2021. Spatial and temporal overlaps of top predators: Dhole, tiger and leopard, and their potential prey in Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, Thailand. Biodiversitas 22: 580-592. The study of the spatial-temporal overlap of top predators and their prey is important to understand competition among predators and predator-prey relationships so that the viable populations of predators and other animals can be sustained. This research aimed to study the abundance of three top predators: Dhole (Cuon alpinus), tiger (Panthera tigris) and leopard (Panthera pardus), and their potential wild prey in Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, Thailand, and to investigate the spatial-temporal overlap between those three predators, and their potential wild prey. We tested two significant hypotheses: (i) tiger and leopard had the highest spatial-temporal overlap and the spatial overlap of dhole and leopard was higher in comparison to dhole and tiger due to a higher prey overlap; (ii) the three species of large carnivore avoided spatial-temporal overlap even if they were in the same area. The study was conducted using camera traps. In addition, the spatial-temporal overlap of large carnivores and their potential prey was studied to understand the important species of prey of these large carnivores. The results showed that the spatial overlap of tiger and leopard was the highest. Dhole had significant spatial overlap with leopard, which was higher in comparison to dhole and tiger. A significant temporal overlap of dhole and leopard was not found. Also, a significant temporal overlap of tiger and leopard was not found. The results were based on hypotheses that conformed to the niche overlap index of the potential prey and the temporal overlap coefficient. There were ten important species of potential prey of large carnivores: Sambar deer (Rusa unicolor), red muntjac (Muntiacus muntjak), gaur (Bos gaurus), banteng (Bos javanicus), wild boar (Sus scrofa), Malayan porcupine (Hystrix brachyura), large Indian civet (Viverra zibetha), Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus), pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina) and red jungle fowl (Gallus gallus). The important recommendation is the protection of the sanctuary from wildfires which spread from the outside in, especially in dry evergreen forest. Food resources of herbivores in the area must be managed, as well as the prevention of epidemics from livestock to wild animals.

Short Communication: Wildlife species used as traditional medicine by local people in Indonesia

Abstract. Mardiastuti A, Masy'ud B, Ginoga LN, Sastranegara H, Sutopo. 2021. Short Communication: Wildlife species used as traditional medicine by local people in Indonesia. Biodiversitas 22: 329-337. Since a long time ago, wild animals (wildlife species) have been used by the local people as traditional medicine. Research has been conducted in some areas, but there was no study that incorporates all data. The objective of this research was to collect nation-wide information on the wildlife species (mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians) used as traditional medicine, identify the species used the most, and collect information on the diseases that were believed can be cured by the wildlife species. Papers and reports from previous studies were collected and analyzed. Based on 55 published scientific papers, 114 wildlife species were known to be used by the local people as traditional medicine (59 species of mammals, 12 birds, 37 reptiles, 6 amphibians). Reptiles were used more intensively and believed may cure many diseases, mainly respiratory, digestive, skin, and musculoskeletal diseases. Among all species, Reticulated Python (Malayopython reticulatus), Common Water Monitor (Varanus salvator), Tokay Gecko (Gekko gecko), Common Sun Skink (Eutropis multifasciata), and Malayan Porcupine (Hystrix brachyura) were listed as the most popular species for traditional medicine. As some species have already listed as protected and endangered, a necessary precautionary program is needed to ensure the harvest sustainability and survival of the endangered species.

Mammal Diversity at Artificial Saltlicks in Malaysia: A Targeted Use

Natural mineral licks are used by many species throughout the world but information relating to the use of artificial saltlicks for wildlife conservation and management is scant. The Department of Wildlife and National Parks in Peninsular Malaysia has established more than 30 artificial saltlicks intended to enrich the habitat with additional mineral resources for wildlife. We used automated camera traps to assess mammal diversity and visitation rates at 14 artificial saltlicks across three wildlife reserves, and compared these metrics to those from nearby (300m) forest sites. Cameras were operational for an average of 65.3 trap nights (TN), providing 846 TN at artificial saltlicks and 916 TN in forest areas. At artificial saltlicks we recorded 159.7 independent mammal encounters (100TN-1), significantly higher (p<0.0001) than from forest sites at 31.1 100TN-1. Twenty-three species were recorded at artificial saltlicks while 19 species were detected from forest sites. Of the seven most frequent species to visit the artificial saltlicks, only wild pig (p=0.012), Malayan tapir (p=0.033), red muntjac (p=0.008) and Malayan porcupine (p=0.007) showed significantly higher encounter rates over forest sites, indicating a specific preference and targeted use of artificial saltlicks for these species. Artificial saltlick sites successfully attracted a wide range of species, possibly because they provided valuable resources that would otherwise be absent in the study area. Such areas may be beneficial in diversifying and enriching habitats, particularly where natural mineral licks have been lost or habitats necessitate restoration or rehabilitation.

The Systematic Position of a Large Porcupine (Hystrix, Hystricidae, Rodentia) from the Pleistocene of Vietnam (Lang Trang Cave).

The dental remains of the porcupine from the Pleistocene deposits of the Lang Trang cave in northern Vietnam are described. Previously, this porcupine was identified as Hystrix brachyura Linnaeus, 1758 or H. indica Kerr, 1792. Based on the analysis of morphometric data, the systematic position of the form from Lang Trang and other large Pleistocene porcupines of Vietnam is determined as Hystrix kiangsenensis Wang, 1931.

Prey species and prey selection of dholes at three different sites in Thailand

Abstract. Charaspet K, Sukmasuang R, Khoewsree N, Pla-ard M, Chanachai Y. 2020. Prey species and prey selection of dholes at three different sites in Thailand. Biodiversitas 21: 5248-5262. The study of prey species and prey selection of Dholes at 3 different sites was conducted at Khao Yai National Park, Salak Pra, and Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries from 2013 to 2020. Information on Dhole prey at the sites was collected from the residues of dhole scats, from which the selection index, the relative biomass of the prey, and the relative amounts of the consumed prey were calculated. The data were collected simultaneously with the use of camera traps at each site. The study revealed that there were 13 species of Dhole prey with body weight over 5 kg. The result indicated that there were 7 species of even-toed ungulates. The relative biomass of even-toed ungulates ranged between 76.78 - 90.50% of the total biomass of all the Dholes’ consumed prey for all study sites. The dietary diversity index unveiled a similar index in all areas, which proved the adequacy of the analyzed scats. However, the Niche breadth index, which indicates the relevance of prey selection and prey species to the appearances of the prey at each site, was found to be high at Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, Khao Yai National Park, while the index was found to be low at Salak Pra Wildlife Sanctuary. The results revealed that Dholes consumed viverrid species and Malayan porcupine more often at the site where there were large carnivores. The recommendation from this study was the conservation and restoration of the ungulate populations, the main prey, as it greatly affects the conservation of the Dhole populations in Thailand. Grassland and salt lick sites, water sources improvements are also important to promote prey population. The conservation of wildlife prey by releasing them to nature, as currently conducted, has an effect on the increase of Dholes’ prey species.

Determination toxic effects of Hystrix Brachyura Bezoar extracts using cancer cell lines and embryo zebrafish (Danio rerio) models and identification of active principles through GC-MS analysis

Ethnopharmacological relevancePorcupine bezoar (PB) is used as folk medicine for various medical conditions including cancer treatment in Malaysia. However, its toxicity profile has never been thoroughly ascertained to confirm its safe nature as an efficacious traditional medicine in the treatment of cancer as well as other ailments. Aim of the studyThis study was aimed to reveal three different PBs’ aqueous extracts(viz. PB-A, PB-B, PB-C) chemical constituent’s profile using GC-MS analysis, anticancer property on A375, HeLa and MCF7 cancer cells, toxicity profile on zebrafish embryo morphology, EC50, LC50 and teratogenicity index. Materials and methodsPBs’ extracts characterization was performed through GC-MS analysis, in vitro anticancer effect was carried out on A375, HeLa and MCF7 cancer cell lines and finally and toxicity properties on three different PBs aqueous extracts (viz. PB-A, PB-B, PB-C) were determined using zebrafish embryo model. ResultsThe GC-MS analysis revealed 10 similar compounds in all PBs’ extracts. Dilauryl thiodipropionate was found to be a major compound in all PBs’ extracts followed by tetradecanoic acid. An in vitro anticancer study revealed PB extracts exerted median inhibition concentration (IC50) <50 μg/mL, on cancer cells viz. A375, HeLa and MCF7 with no significant toxicity on normal cells viz. NHDF cells. In vivo toxicity of PBs extracts found affecting tail detachment, hatching, craniofacial, brain morphology, soft tissues, edema, spinal, somites, notochord and cardiovascular system (brachycardia, disruption of blood circulation) deformities. The LC50 and EC50 demonstrated PB extracts effect as dose and time dependent with median concentration <150.0 μg/mL. Additionally, teratogenicity index (TI) viz. >1.0 revealed teratogenic property for PB extracts. ConclusionsThe findings revealed that all three PBs aqueous extracts possessed anticancer activity and exhibited significant toxicological effects on zebrafish embryos with high teratogenicity index. Hence, its use as an anticancer agent requires further investigation and medical attentions to determine its safe dose.

Anti-dengue virus serotype 2 activity of tannins from porcupine dates

BackgroundDengue fever is currently endemic in tropical and subtropical countries worldwide and effective drug against DENV infection is still unavailable. Porcupine dates, which are traditionally used to treat dengue fever, might contain potential anti-dengue compounds. Two porcupine dates, black date (BD) and powdery date (PD) from Himalayan porcupine (Hystrix brachyura), were investigated for their antiviral activities against DENV-2 in vitro.MethodsThe methanol crude extracts (MBD and MPD) were prepared from the raw material of porcupine dates. The tannin-rich fractions (BDTF and PDTF) were isolated from their methanol crude extracts using column chromatography. The presence of tannins in BDTF and PDTF extracts was determined by fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses. The cytotoxicity and anti-DENV-2 activities including virus yield inhibition, virucidal, virus attachment and pre-treatment assays of the extracts were examined in Vero cells.ResultsOur findings revealed that all the extracts of porcupine dates exhibited antiviral activity against DENV-2 in Vero cells. The IC50 of BDTF and PDTF were 25 µg/mL and 11 µg/mL respectively, while their methanol crude extracts demonstrated lower antiviral efficacy (IC50 ≈ 101–107 µg/mL). BDTF and PDTF also exerted a similar higher virucidal effect (IC50 of 11 µg/mL) than methanol crude extracts (IC50 ≈ 52–66 µg/mL). Furthermore, all the extracts inhibited the attachment of DENV-2 by at least 80%. Pre-treatments of cells with BDTF and PDTF markedly prevented DENV-2 infection when compared to methanol crude extracts.ConclusionThis study suggests that porcupine dates possess antiviral properties against DENV-2, which is attributed to its tannin compounds.

Makhnevskaya Ledyanaya Cave (Middle Urals, Russia): Biostratigraphical reconstruction

Pollen and fossil mammals of the terrigenous deposits in the Makhnevskaya Ledyanaya Cave (59°26′ N 57°41’ E), located in the northern part of the Middle Urals and on the border with the Northern Urals, were studied. The spore-and-pollen spectra are divided into four pollen zones. In all the spectra, pollen concentrations of tree species amount to 50–70%. The presence of pollen in thermophilic (Quercus robur-type, Tilia cordata-type, Ulmus sp., Carpinus betulus, Corylus avellana-type) and moderate boreal (Abies, Picea, Pinus, Betula, Alnus) species and a lack of any tundra flora elements indicate their interglacial nature. The following have been identified as small mammal fauna: 8 taxa of insectivorous mammals, 4 taxa of bats, 2 taxa of lagomorphs, 4 species of carnivores, 16 species of rodents, 1 species of odd-toed ungulates and 4 species of even-toed ungulates. The remains of cryoxerophilous (Dicrostonyx sp., Lasiopodomys gregalis) and steppe (Ochotona sp.) species are scarce in the studied fauna. Species typical of forests (genus Sorex, genus Craseomys, genus Myodes, Myopus schisticolor, Microtus agrestis) are dominant. Remains of Erinaceus sp., Talpa sp., Crocidura leucodon, Sciurus vulgaris, Hystrix brachyura, Dryomys nitedula, Apodemus flavicollis, Stephanorhinus kirchbergensis have been found. The morphology and dimensions of the teeth of Panthera spelaea fossilis, Hystrix brachyura, Dryomys nitedula, Arvicola amphibius, mice of genus Apodemus are described. The compositions of the palynocomplexes and mammal fauna as well as the SDQ values for m1 of Arvicola amphibius allow us to date the deposits from the Makhnevskaya Ledyanaya Cave to the Eemian interglacial period (MIS 5e).

The Himalayan Crestless Porcupine Hystrix brachyura Linnaeus, 1758 (Mammalia: Rodentia: Hystricidae): first authentic record from Bangladesh

We report the first confirmed record of the Himalayan Crestless Porcupine Hystrix brachyura (Linnaeus, 1758) in Sundarbans mangrove forest, Bangladesh. An individual was observed and photographed in May 2018. The finding ensures the occurrence of this porcupine in a new habitat and stretches this species’ geographic distribution.&#x0D; &#x0D;

Effects of nonlethal tourist activity on the diel activity patterns of mammals in a National Park in Peninsular Malaysia

The activity patterns of mammals are highly variable across species and can be affected by many factors, such as daytime length (i.e., sunrise to sunset), temperature, precipitation, predator–prey or competitive interactions and human activities. However, while several studies have investigated the seasonal and diel activity patterns of mammals using camera traps, information on their diel activity patterns in relation to nonlethal tourist activity is limited. Therefore, here, we conducted video-camera-trap surveys in Endau Rompin National Park in Peninsular Malaysia to examine the detection rates and diel activity patterns of the mammals living there, as well as differences in their diel activity patterns between the open and closed tourist seasons. Barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak), bearded pig (Sus barbatus), wild boar (S. scrofa), greater oriental chevrotain (Tragulus napu) and Malayan tapir (Tapirus indicus) exhibited significant differences in their diel activities among time periods: Malayan tapir was predominantly nocturnal, the greater oriental chevrotain was predominantly crepuscular and all other species were strongly diurnal. In addition, the data indicated that the Malayan porcupine (Hystrix brachyura) was nocturnal and the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) was cathemeral, although the differences between time periods were not significant for these species. The detection frequencies of barking deer, bearded pig, wild boar and Malayan porcupine were higher in the open season. However, these differences were not related to human activity recorded by the cameras, and none of the mammalian species exhibited significant differences in their diel activity patterns between the open and closed seasons, suggesting that nonlethal tourist activity has limited effects on the diel activity patterns of wild mammals in this National Park.

Observations of behavioral development on common Porcupines (Hystrix brachyura) undergoing domestication

Common porcupine (Hystrix brachyura) is one of the protected mammals in Indonesia. The existence of this species is threatened due to habitat destruction and uncontrolled poaching. In order to maintain the sustainability of porcupine from extinction, the rescue is through captive breeding (ex situ conservation). The process of domestication of porcupine begins with observing the development of its behavior, making it easier to manage in captivity. The aim of the study was to determine the development of porcupine behavior related to the domestication process in captivity. The materials used were four porcupines (two males and two females) around 18 months old and a female porcupine and a young. Each pair of porcupines is placed inside an individual cage (3.9 m long, 2.1 m wide, and 2.6 m high), which has been equipped with a place to feed and drink. The parameters observed were eating and drinking activities, locomotion, resting, eliminative (urinating and defecating), grooming, and agonistic. Whereas the female porcupine and a young observed maternal porcupine care for the young. The observation method is based on one-zero sampling. Observations began at 6:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. with a time interval of 15 minutes. The results showed that daily activity of porcupines included 52.01% resting, 19.95% locomotion, 12.73% grooming, 10.05% feeding, 2.95% agonistic, 1.74% urinating, 0.39% drinking, and 0.18% defecating. Porcupine parental activity in the lactation period is breastfeeding (49.26%), cleansing the young’s body (36.16%), teaching grooming (5.71%), teaching opening the cage door (4.10%), teaching meal (2.89%), and agonistic (1.88%).

Anticancer activity of grassy Hystrix brachyura bezoar and its mechanisms of action: An in vitro and in vivo based study

Porcupine bezoar (PB) is a calcified undigested material generally found in porcupine’s (Hystrix brachyura) gastrointestinal tract. The bezoar is traditionally used in South East Asia and Europe for the treatment of cancer, poisoning, dengue, typhoid, etc. However, limited scientific studies have been performed to verify its anticancer potential to substantiate its traditional claims in the treatment of cancers. Hence, this study was aimed at investigating the in vitro and in vivo anticancer properties of two grassy PB aqueous extract (PB-A and PB-B) using A375 cancer cell line and zebrafish model, respectively. This paper presents the first report on in vitro A375 cell viability assay, apoptosis assay, cell cycle arrest assay, migration assay, invasion assay, qPCR experimental assay and in vivo anti-angiogenesis assay using the grassy PBs. Experimental findings revealed IC50 value are 26.59 ± 1.37 μg/mL and 30.12 ± 3.25 μg/mL for PB-A and PB-B respectively. PBs showed anti-proliferative activity with no significant cytotoxic effect on normal human dermal fibroblast (NHDF). PBs were also found to induce apoptosis via intrinsic pathway and arrest cell cycle at G2/M phase. Additionally, the findings indicated its ability to debilitate migration and invasion of A375 cells. Further evaluation using embryo zebrafish model revealed LC50 = 450.0 ± 2.50 μg/mL and 58.7 ± 5.0 μg/mL for PB-A and PB-B which also exerted anti-angiogenesis effect in zebrafish. Moreover, stearic acid, ursodeoxycholic acid and pregnenolone were identified as possible metabolites that might contribute to the anticancer effect of the both PBs. Overall, this study demonstrated that PB-A and PB-B possess potential in vitro and in vivo anticancer effects which are elicited through selective cytotoxic effect, induction of apoptosis, inhibition of migration and invasion and anti-angiogenesis. This study provides scientific evidence that the porcupine bezoar do possess anti-cancer efficacy and further justifies its traditional utility. However, more experiments with higher vertebrae models are still warranted to validate its traditional claims as an anticancer agent.