Inaugural Report Research Articles

Chromosome-level genome assembly of the ivory shell Babylonia areolata

The ivory shell Babylonia areolata is an economically important marine benthic gastropod known for its rapid growth and high nutritional value. B. areolata is distributed in Southeast Asia and the southeast coastal areas of China. In this study, we constructed a high-quality genome for B. areolata using PacBio, Illumina, and Hi-C sequencing technologies. The genome assembly comprised 35 chromosomal sequences with a total length of 1.65 Gb. The scaffold and contig N50 lengths were 53.17 Mb and 2.64 Mb, respectively, with repeat sequences constituting 64.46% of the genome. Furthermore, 26,130 protein-coding genes and 96.75% of the genome’s BUSCOs were identified. This inaugural report of a B. areolata genome provides crucial foundational information for further investigations into the biology, genomics, and genetic improvement of economic traits of this species.

Modulation of ZrO2-Ag2O-MoO3 nanocomposite into ultrasensitive hydrazine electrochemical sensor for environmental remediation

Herein, a facile single-step wet chemical approach was executed for the composition of semiconductor ternary metal oxides (TMO) i.e., ZrO2-Ag2O-MoO3 nanocomposite (NC)in an alkaline medium. For structural as well as morphological elucidation, the calcined nanocomposite was characterized through ultraviolet–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV–Vis DRS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), powdered X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis. Later, the glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was modified into a highly responsive as well as selective hydrazine (HDZN) electrochemical probe (ZrO2-Ag2O-MoO3-NC/PEDOT:PSS/GCE) by the fabrication of thin layered ZrO2-Ag2O-MoO3NC onto GCE facilitated by 5 % PEDOT:PSS as conducting polymer binder. While examining the analytical parameters through novel current–potential (I-V) electrochemical approach, for the first time, the newly designed electrochemical probe, as selective hydrazine sensor, happened to own the low detection limit (LOD; 0.028 pM) with greater sensitivity (33.86 μAμM−1cm−2) and broad linear dynamic range (LDR; 0.1 M–1.0 nM) in addition to coefficient of correlation (r)/r2 square (r = 0.9941, r2 = 0.9882) and low limit of quantification (LOQ; 0.093 pM).Furthermore, reproducibility as well as prolonged stability of this newly proposed probe towards hydrazine were also assessed and found to be reliable in short response time. Hence, this work presents an inaugural report about the sensing of HDZN through the newly designed non reported ZrO2-Ag2O-MoO3-NC/PEDOT:PSS/GCE via an economical as well as novel electrochemical, current–potential (I-V),approach. Additionally, this proposed method is equally responsive towards both environmental and extracted real samples analysis on large scale.

Biology, function and structure of the calcium homeostasis modulator family.

Calcium homeostasis modulators (CALHMs) are the most recently discovered members of the large-pore channel family. They mediate the conductance of ions and larger molecules, such as ATP, and play critical roles in pathways related to Alzheimer's disease, neuroinflammation, neuromodulation, taste perception and innate immune responses. Since the inaugural report on CALHM1 in 2008, significant breakthroughs have revealed their biological roles, ion and ATP channel functions, and structures, positioning the field for further advancements. In this review, we discuss the overall progress and recent developments in understanding the biological roles, functions and molecular structures of CALHM proteins.

Abstract P202: Excess of anything is detrimental - unraveling role of multiple accessory renal arteries in Pickering syndrome.

Flash pulmonary edema (FPE) appears to be more common in patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis (RAS) as compared to those with unilateral disease. The combination of bilateral RAS and recurrent FEP has been named the Pickering syndrome. Here, we present a case of Pickering syndrome caused by unilateral RAS in combination with multiple accessory renal arteries (ARA). To our knowledge, this case marks the inaugural report within the literature. A 68-year-old woman presented to ER with her third episode of FPE in two months, accompanied by hypertensive emergency, BP 232/127 mmHg. Initial evaluation, including laboratory tests and RA ultrasound, showed no abnormalities. However, a CTA of the abdomen revealed a single heavily calcified L main RA with severe atherosclerosis extending into the lumen of the aorta and the proximal L main RA. Three RAs supply R kidney with questionable stenosis of superior, smaller R RA. Atherosclerotic plaque is present at the origin of the inferior R RA, but no definitive significant stenosis is detected. Unilateral RAS and multiple ARAs were suspected to cause HTN and FPE. An aortogram with possible RA stenting was recommended by vascular surgery. It confirmed > 75% stenosis in the L RA, prompting stent deployment. However, no significant stenosis was observed in R ARAs. Post-procedure BP control was achieved with a single agent. FPE is a life-threatening syndrome. Cardiac systolic or diastolic dysfunctions usually accompany it. Recurrent FPE due to bilateral RAS was described by Pickering et al. in 1988. Although its exact mechanism is not completely understood, it is believed to result from excessive fluid volume due to decreased sodium excretion. A similar mechanism was proposed in RAS in a single functional kidney. Could the presence of an ARA mimic the pathophysiology of RAS? It has been theorized that an ARA may lead to HTN due to reduced blood flow to the kidney, caused by its longer and narrower caliber, which increases resistance and may lead to stenosis. The Poiseuille equation, rearranged to R=8μL/ΔPπR4 (where R=resistance, μ=viscosity, L=vessel's length, P=pressure, R=vessel's radius), suggests that both the radius and the length of ARAs may play a role in our patient's condition. In summary, ARAs are a common anatomical variation, and depending on their specific characteristics, they may contribute to resistant HTN and FPE through renin-dependent hyperaldosteronism.

Uncovering Fusarium Species Associated with Fusarium Wilt in Chickpeas (Cicer arietinum L.) and the Identification of Significant Marker–Trait Associations for Resistance in the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas’ Chickpea Collection Using SSR Markers

Enhancing plants’ resistance against FW is crucial for ensuring a sustainable global chickpea production. The present study focuses on the identification of fungal pathogens and the assessment of ninety-six chickpea samples for Fusarium wilt from the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA)’s collection. Eight fungal isolates were recovered from the symptomatic chickpeas. Polyphasic identification was conducted by comparing the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS), the elongation factor 1-α (tef1-α), and beta-tubulin (tub2). Among them, Neocosmospora solani, N. nelsonii, N. falciformis, N. brevis, Fusarium brachygibbosum, and F. gossypinum were identified. An analysis of the genetic diversity of chickpeas, using 69 polymorphic simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers, revealed a total of 191 alleles across all markers, with, on average, each SSR marker detecting approximately 2.8 alleles. A STRUCTURE analysis delineated lines into two distinct sub-groups (K = 2). Association mapping, using the generalized linear model (GLM) and mixed linear model (MLM) approaches, identified six and five marker–trait associations (MTAs) for FW resistance, respectively. Notably, these TA42, TA125 (A) and TA125 (B), TA37, and TAASH MTAs, commonly found in both models, emerge as potential candidates for the targeted enhancement of FW resistance in chickpeas. To our knowledge, this study represents an inaugural report on the association mapping of genomic loci governing FW resistance in chickpeas from the ICARDA’s accessions.

Selectivity Screening and Structure-Cytotoxic Activity Observations of Selected Oleanolic Acid (OA)-Type Saponins from the Amaranthaceae Family on a Wiade Panel of Human Cancer Cell Lines.

Plants from the Amaranthaceae family are a source of oleanolic acid (OA)-type saponins with cytotoxic activity. Two known OA-type saponins, calenduloside E and chikusetsusaponin IVa, were isolated from the roots of Chenopodium strictum Roth. Their structures were confirmed using MS and NMR techniques. This constitutes the inaugural report of the saponins in Ch. strictum. Both the isolated saponins and structurally similar compounds, momordin Ic and OA, were compared for their cytotoxicity against various cancer and normal cell lines (including skin, breast, thyroid, gastrointestinal, and prostate panels). Their effects were dose- and time-dependent, varying with the specific cell line and compound structure. A chemometric approach demonstrated the effects of the compounds on the cell lines. The study discusses the structure-activity observations. The key structural elements for potent cytotoxic activity included the free carboxyl group 28COOH in the sapogenin structure (OA) and the presence of a sugar moiety. The monodesmosides with glucuronic acid (GlcA) at the C3 position of OA were generally more cytotoxic than bidesmosides or OA alone. The addition of xylose in the sugar chain modified the activity towards the cancer cells depending on the specific cell line. OA-type saponins with GlcA (particularly calenduloside E and momordin Ic) represent a promising avenue for further investigation as potential anticancer agents.

20 W CW laser operation of Tm:YAP single crystal fiber

We report the development of a low-loss, thulium-doped yttrium aluminum perovskite (Tm:YAP) single-crystal fiber (SCF), fabricated using the Czochralski method. This SCF features undoped YAP end caps that are directly grown on both ends, aimed at improving thermal management and enhancing the guidance of pump light. This innovative design also removes differences in crystallographic orientation, exhibiting a propagation loss of 0.0112 cm−1 at 1.94 µm. When pumped by diode lasers at 788 nm, the SCF laser delivers continuous-wave output powers of 11.9 W and 20.6 W under single-end and double-end pumping configurations, respectively. The slope efficiencies achieved are 53.2 % and 40.7 %, relative to the incident pump power. To the best of our knowledge, this is the inaugural report of a Tm:YAP SCF laser.

An amplification-free CRISPR-Cas12a assay for titer determination and composition analysis of the rAAV genome

The viral genome titer is a crucial indicator for the clinical dosing, manufacturing, and analytical testing of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) gene therapy products. Although quantitative PCR and digital PCR are the common methods used for quantifying rAAV genome titer, they are limited by inadequate accuracy and robustness. The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-Cas12a biosensor is being increasingly used in virus detection; however, there is currently no report on its application in the titer determination of gene therapy products. In the present study, an amplification-free CRISPR-Cas12a assay was developed, optimized, and applied for rAAV genome titer determination. The assay demonstrated high precision and accuracy within the detection range of 4 × 109 and 1011 vg/mL. No significant difference was observed between the Cas12a and qPCR assay results (p﹤0.05, t-test). Moreover, Cas12a exhibited similar activity on both single-stranded and double-stranded DNA substrates. Based on this characteristic, the titers of positive-sense and negative-sense strands were determined separately, which revealed a significant difference between their titers for an in-house reference AAV5-IN. This study presents the inaugural report of a Cas12a assay developed for the titer determination and composition analysis of the rAAV genome.

A prediction method for the individual serum concentration and therapeutic effect for optimizing adalimumab therapy in inflammatory bowel disease.

Adalimumab (ADM) therapy is effective for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but a significant number of IBD patients lose response to ADM. Thus, it is crucial to devise methods to enhance ADM's effectiveness. This study introduces a strategy to predict individual serum concentrations and therapeutic effects to optimize ADM therapy for IBD during the induction phase. We predicted the individual serum concentration and therapeutic effect of ADM during the induction phase based on pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) parameters calculated using the empirical Bayesian method. We then examined whether the predicted therapeutic effect, defined as clinical remission or treatment failure, matched the observed effect. Data were obtained from 11 IBD patients. The therapeutic effect during maintenance therapy was successfully predicted at 40 of 47 time points. Moreover, the predicted effects at each patient's final time point matched the observed effects in 9 of the 11 patients. This is the inaugural report predicting the individual serum concentration and therapeutic effect of ADM using the Bayesian method and PK/PD modelling during the induction phase. This strategy may aid in optimizing ADM therapy for IBD.

A smartphone-based electrochemical sensing platform for the portable and simultaneous determination of flavonoids in Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium

BackgroundThe efficient and timely determination of polymethoxylated flavones (PMFs, primarily nobiletin and tangeretin) and flavanone glycosides (primarily hesperidin) in Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (CRP) is of paramount importance for the production of CRP and the evaluation of its efficacy. Conventional analytical methods including chromatography-based approaches commonly provide high sensitivity and selectivity, but require bulky equipment and complicated procedures performed by professional technicians and are thus inconvenient in practical applications. Therefore, there is a clear need for portable and miniaturized sensing platforms that can rapidly and simultaneously detect PMFs and hesperidin in CRP product. ResultsA state-of-the-art three-dimensional porous graphene electrode was first fabricated by direct laser scribing of a poly(ether-ether-ketone) (PEEK) film for electrocatalysis of nobiletin, tangeretin and hesperidin. Kinetic analysis was conducted to investigate the reaction mechanisms of these three flavonoids at such prepared PEEK-laser induced graphene (PEEK-LIG) electrodes. Since the as-prepared PEEK-LIG electrodes exhibited high electrocatalytic efficiency towards these three flavonoids, a portable electrochemical sensing platform assembled with a smartphone, a miniatured electrochemical workstation, and an integrated PEEK-LIG microchip was developed. Consequently, the developed portable electrochemical sensing platforms exhibited great sensitivity and low detection limits for both PMFs and hesperidin. More importantly, tests conducted on real CRP extract samples demonstrated that the developed portable electrochemical sensing platform exhibited high validity, high reliability, as well as excellent reproducibility. SignificanceThis is the inaugural report on the portable and simultaneous determination of PMFs and hesperidin in the pericarp of Citrus Reticulata, which may be utilized for differentiating CRP products. Furthermore, the portable and powerful electrochemical sensing platforms developed could also potentially be applied for a wide range of analytes, thanks to their simple and rapid fabrication and determination processes.

Enhancing food preservation and safety: Synergistic effects of Allium-derived organosulfur compounds and outer membrane permeabilization peptide L-11

Ready-to-eat (RTE) foods, characterized by the lack of a terminal heating step prior to consumption, offer enhanced organoleptic qualities compared to their cooked counterparts, as they retain more of their natural flavors, textures, and nutritional content. However, these untreated products pose a risk for foodborne illnesses if not promptly consumed and/or adequately stored under refrigeration or in a frozen state. This investigation delves into the synergistic antimicrobial effects of a novel human-mimetic peptide, L-11, in conjunction with organosulfur compounds derived from Allium species—namely allicin, diallyl sulfide (DAS), dipropyl sulfide (DPS), propyl propane thiosulfinate (PTS), and propyl propane thiosulfonate (PTSO)—on the inhibition and control of Gram-negative foodborne pathogens across various food matrices. Notably, despite the minimal individual antimicrobial activity of peptide L-11 and the evaluated organosulfur compounds against target bacteria (Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, Yersinia enterocolitica, and Shigella sonnei), their combinations exhibited remarkable synergistic effects in vitro with until 32-fold reduction for some combinations. Specifically, combinations including PTS and PTSO demonstrated up to a 99% reduction in bacterial proliferation within RTE food models such as salmorejo, aioli, pumpkin cream, and spinach cream. These findings highlight the potential applications of these synergistic combinations in extending the shelf-life and enhancing the safety of RTE foods. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the inaugural report of such synergistic interactions between organosulfur compounds and peptides in extending the shelf-life of RTE foods.

Integrated virtual screening coupled with sensory evaluation identifies N-succinyl-L-tryptophan as a novel compound with multiple taste enhancement properties

N-Succinyl amino acids (N-Suc-AAs) are garnering attention for their potential as taste-active compounds. The intricate variety of N-Suc-AAs presented considerable challenges in identifying those with taste-active properties. Consequently, we employed structure-based virtual screening to pinpoint taste-active N-Suc-AAs, revealing N-succinyl-L-tryptophan (ST) as a compound with high affinity for different taste receptors. Following this discovery, ST was synthesized through an enzymatic process, achieving a yield of 40.2%, with its structure verified via NMR spectroscopy. Sensory evaluation alongside electronic tongue assessments indicated that ST at a concentration of 1 mg/L significantly enhances umami, kokumi, and saltiness intensities, while concurrently mitigating bitterness from various bitter compounds, whilst itself remaining tasteless. Additionally, time-intensity (TI) results elucidated a marked augmentation in umami duration and a notable diminution in bitterness duration for solutions imbued with 1 mg/L ST. Molecular docking study suggested ST interacted with diverse taste receptors as an agonist or antagonist, primarily through hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. This study marked the inaugural report on the enzymatic synthesis of ST and its efficacy in improving taste characteristics, underscoring the importance of ST in improving sensory qualities of food products and fostering innovation within the seasoning industry.

Cross-species transmission of a novel bisegmented orfanplasmovirus in the phytopathogenic fungus Exserohilum rostratum

Mycoviruses have been found in various fungal species across different taxonomic groups, while no viruses have been reported yet in the fungus Exserohilum rostratum. In this study, a novel orfanplasmovirus, namely Exserohilum rostratum orfanplasmovirus 1 (ErOrfV1), was identified in the Exserohilum rostratum strain JZ1 from maize leaf. The complete genome of ErOrfV1 consists of two positive single-stranded RNA segments, encoding an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and a hypothetical protein with unknown function, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that ErOrfV1 clusters with other orfanplasmoviruses, forming a distinct phyletic clade. A new family, Orfanplasmoviridae, is proposed to encompass this newly discovered ErOrfV1 and its associated orfanplasmoviruses. ErOrfV1 exhibits effective vertical transmission through conidia, as evidenced by its 100% presence in over 200 single conidium isolates. Moreover, it can be horizontally transmitted to Exserohilum turcicum. Additionally, the infection of ErOrfV1 is cryptic in E. turcicum because there were no significant differences in mycelial growth rate and colony morphology between ErOrfV1-infected and ErOrfV1-free strains. This study represents the inaugural report of a mycovirus in E. rostratum, as well as the first documentation of the biological and transmission characteristics of orfanplasmovirus. These discoveries significantly contribute to our understanding of orfanplasmovirus.

Family Structure and Poverty Changes Among U.S. White Alone (non-Hispanic) Families in the United States: A State of Families Project Report (1967–2022)

This report is the second in a series of State of Families (SoF) project data reports to be published throughout Volume 60 (2024) of Marriage and Family Review (MFR). MFR partnered with the Statistical Consulting Center at Miami University to systematically analyze the conditional state of U.S. families and family life across diverse contexts. This inaugural report focuses on U.S. White alone (non-Hispanic) families (with and without children under 18 years of age) in the United States, examining changes in family structure and poverty levels over time (1967–2022). Using data from the U.S. Census Bureau, we explore trends in married-couple families, single-parent families, cohabiting households, and other family types within the demographic category of White alone (non-Hispanic) population. Additionally, we investigate the dynamics of poverty among different family structures within this group. The report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the evolving landscape of White alone (non-Hispanic) families in the context of broader societal shifts and economic realities in the U.S.

GC–MS based antioxidants characterization in Saussurea heteromalla (D. Don) Hand-Mazz by inhibition of nitric oxide generation in macrophages

For centuries, medicinal plants have served as the cornerstone for traditional health care systems and same practice is still prevalent today. In the Himalayan region, Saussurea heteromalla holds a significant place in traditional medicine and is used to address various health issues. Despite its historical use, little exploration has focused on its potential for scavenging free radicals and reducing inflammation. Hence, our current study aims to investigate the free radical scavenging capabilities of S. heteromalla extracts. The n-hexane extract of entire plant revealed promising activity. This extract underwent extensive extraction on a larger scale. Subsequent purification, employing column chromatography, HPLC–DAD techniques, led to the identification of active compounds, confirmed via GC–MS and the NIST database as 1-O-butyl 2-O-octyl benzene-1,2-dicarboxylate and 2,4-ditert-butylphenol. Assessing the free radical scavenging properties involved utilizing RAW-264.7 macrophages activated by lipopolysaccharides. Notably, the compound 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol exhibited remarkable scavenging abilities, demonstrating over 80% inhibition of Nitric oxide. This study stands as the inaugural report on the isolation of these compounds from S. heteromalla.

Asiaticoside alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury by blocking Sema4D/CD72 and inhibiting mitochondrial dysfunction in RAW264.7 cell and mice

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a common disease with complex pathogenesis. However, the treatment is mainly symptomatic with limited clinical options. Asiaticoside (AS), a Chinese herbal extract, has protective effects against LPS-induced ALI in mice and inhibits nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2 synthesis; however, the specific mechanism of AS in the prevention and treatment of LPS-induced ALI needs further study. Sema4D/CD72 pathway, mitochondrial dysfunction, and miRNA-21 are closely associated with inflammation. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore whether AS exerts its therapeutic effect on ALI by influencing Sema4D/CD72 pathway and mitochondrial dysfunction, restoring the balance of inflammatory factors, and influencing miRNA-21 expression. Cell and animal experiments were performed to investigate the effect of AS on ALI. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to establish the ALI model. CCK8 and flow cytometry were used to detect the cell viability and apoptosis rate. HE staining and wet-to-dry weight ratio (W/D) of lung tissue were determined. The expressions of Sema4D, CD72, NF-κB p65, Bax, Bcl2, and caspase 3 in RAW264.7 cells and lung tissues were detected by western blot, and the levels of IL-10 and IL-1β induced by LPS in supernatant of RAW264.7 cells and BALF were measured by ELISA. And the expression of miRNA-21 in cells and lung tissues was detected by fluorescence quantitative PCR. The result shows that AS treatment suppressed LPS-induced cell damage and lung injury in mice. AS treatment could alleviate the pathological changes such as inflammatory infiltration and histopathological changes in the lungs caused by LPS, and reduce the ratio of W/D. AS significantly alleviated the decrease of mitochondrial membrane potential induced by LPS, inhibited the increase of ROS production, and reduced the expression of mitochondrial fission proteins Drp1 and Fis1. The high-dose AS group significantly downregulated the expression of Sema4D, CD72, phosphorylated NF-κB p65, and apoptosis-related proteins, decreased the pro-inflammatory factor IL-1β, and enhanced the level of anti-inflammatory factor IL-10. In addition, AS promoted miRNA-21 expression. These effects inhibited apoptosis and restored the balance between anti- and pro-inflammatory factors. This represents the inaugural report elucidating the mechanism by which AS inhibits the Sema4D/CD72 signaling pathway. These findings offer novel insights into the potential application of AS in both preventing and treating ALI.

A process to reproduce repeatable 2D material-based hierarchical enhanced surface area structures

We report a repeatable method for fabrication of a 2D material-based hierarchical enhanced surface area structures (HESAS), which relies on a titanium substrate as the base for nucleation and growth and a titania-acid solution. Since the initial documentation of these formations in 2020, numerous experimental iterations have ensued, culminating in the establishment of a straightforward, replicable procedure for their fabrication. Subsequent to the inaugural report, this manuscript offers a comprehensive overview of the synthesis procedure and structural attributes. Furthermore, it summarizes various pivotal discoveries attained during the course of process refinement, including the significance of substrate preparation in particle synthesis. Specifically, the removal (or lack thereof) of the oxide layer dictates whether (or not) the 2D building blocks form, which corroborates that the composition and level of reactivity of the base surface—where the heterogenous nucleation events take root—appear to impact the ability for crystallization to occur. Nonclassical nucleation and crystallization theories could explain some of the observed patterns in the fabricated HESAS. This report briefly discusses some of the factors which affect supersaturation for the chosen synthesis system and the critical role supersaturation plays in the development of HESAS. Future work should include advancing understanding on the kinetics (and hence dynamic behavior) of the supersaturation parameters; this will be critical to develop controlled fabrication protocols of HESAS, enabling their broader adoption.

Identification and characterization of Pantoea eucalypti as the causative agent of soft rot disease in Chinese chive (Allium tuberosum Rottler ex Sprengle) in China☆

Chinese chive (Allium tuberosum Rottler ex Sprengle) cultivation is widespread in China owing to its distinctive flavor and nutritional advantages. Nevertheless, there exists a significant gap in our knowledge concerning bacterial diseases affecting Chinese chive. In this investigation, a novel strain, denoted as MYJC, was isolated and purified from stem and leaf samples of soft rot in Chinese chive plants collected from above the ground in Chengdu City. Subsequent application of Koch's postulates confirmed its pathogenicity in causing Chinese chive soft rot disease. Comprehensive physiological, biochemical, and molecular biology assays unequivocally identified the causative agent as Pantoea eucalypti. Notably, this study represents the inaugural report of Pantoea eucalypti-induced soft rot disease in Chinese chive in China, thereby establishing a critical theoretical foundation for devising preventive and control strategies against this devastating pathogen in the Chinese chive cultivation sector.

First Record of Mythimna sequax (lepidoptera: noctuidae) damaging canary grass (Phalaris canariensis) in Ijuí, RS, Brazil

Canary grass (Phalaris canariensis L.) is a plant belonging to the Poaceae family, exhibiting a production cycle like the main winter cereals cultivated in Rio Grande do Sul. In pursuit of this market, the Regional University of Northwestern State of Rio Grande do Sul, through the Genetic Improvement Program – Grain and Cover Plants line, has successfully undertaken initiatives to enhance canary grass cultivation. This involves improving cultivars and adopting technologies to maximize productivity, with the aim of providing cultivars better adapted to the northwestern region of the state to meet the needs of local producers. In this sense, this research stands as the inaugural report of the pest in Ijuí, RS, Brazil, specifically targeting canary grass, offering valuable insights into its life stages, and providing a foundation for future studies on Mythimna sequax.

First molecular detection and genetic characterization of porcine circovirus 4 in the Gansu Province of China.

Since its initial discovery in the Hunan province of China, genomic DNA of porcine circovirus 4 (PCV4) has been detected in pigs across multiple provinces in China, as well as in South Korea. However, the prevalence of porcine circovirus type 4 in Gansu Province, China, remains unknown. To address this gap, we undertook an extensive study where we gathered 121 clinical samples displaying diverse clinical manifestations from pig farms in Gansu Province between 2022 and 2023. Employing a real-time fluorescence quantification method, we identified the presence of PCV4 genome. Out of the 121 clinical samples analyzed, 13 samples tested positive for PCV4, resulting in a positive rate of 10.74% (13/121). This finding confirms the presence of PCV4 in pig farms within Gansu Province, China. Furthermore, we successfully sequenced and analyzed the complete genomes of two distinct PCV4 strains, comparing them with 60 reference sequences archived in the GenBank database. The results revealed a high nucleotide homology (98.2-98.8%) between the strains obtained in this study and the PCV4 reference strains, indicating a relatively low evolutionary rate of the PCV4 genome. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that two strains in this study belong to PCV4a and PCV4c. As far as we know, this study marks the inaugural report on the molecular identification and genomic attributes of PCV4 in Gansu Province, China, offering valuable insights for devising preventive and control strategies against this emerging virus.