scholarly journals Contrasting Manual and Automated Assessment of Thermal Stress Responses and Larval Body Size in Black Soldier Flies and Houseflies

Insects ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 12 (5) ◽  
pp. 380
Author(s):  
Stine Frey Laursen ◽  
Laura Skrubbeltrang Hansen ◽  
Simon Bahrndorff ◽  
Hanne Marie Nielsen ◽  
Natasja Krog Noer ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Stress Responses ◽  
Human Error ◽  
Automated Assessment ◽  
Larval Size ◽  
Larval Body ◽  
Genetic Studies ◽  
Temperature Regimes ◽  
Morphological And Physiological Traits ◽  
Highly Correlated ◽  
Size Estimates

Within ecophysiological and genetic studies on insects, morphological and physiological traits are commonly assessed and phenotypes are typically obtained from manual measurements on numerous individuals. Manual observations are, however, time consuming, can introduce observer bias and are prone to human error. Here, we contrast results obtained from manual assessment of larval size and thermal tolerance traits in black soldier flies (Hermetia illucens) and houseflies (Musca domestica) that have been acclimated under three different temperature regimes with those obtained automatically using an image analysis software (Noldus EthoVision XT). We found that (i) larval size estimates of both species, obtained by manual weighing or by using the software, were highly correlated, (ii) measures of heat and cold tolerance using manual and automated approaches provided qualitatively similar results, and (iii) by using the software we obtained quantifiable information on stress responses and acclimation effects of potentially higher ecological relevance than the endpoint traits that are typically assessed when manual assessments are used. Based on these findings, we argue that automated assessment of insect stress responses and largescale phenotyping of morphological traits such as size will provide new opportunities within many disciplines where accurate and largescale phenotyping of insects is required.

scholarly journals Versatile Physiological Functions of Plant GSK3-Like Kinases

Genes ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 12 (5) ◽  
pp. 697
Author(s):  
Juan Mao ◽  
Wenxin Li ◽  
Jing Liu ◽  
Jianming Li
Keyword(s):  
Stress Responses ◽  
Glycogen Synthase ◽  
Plant Stress ◽  
Normal Growth ◽  
Growth Conditions ◽  
Genetic Studies ◽  
Physiological Functions ◽  
Environmental Signals ◽  
Plant Stress Responses ◽  
Diverse Plant

The plant glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3)-like kinases are highly conserved protein serine/threonine kinases that are grouped into four subfamilies. Similar to their mammalian homologs, these kinases are constitutively active under normal growth conditions but become inactivated in response to diverse developmental and environmental signals. Since their initial discoveries in the early 1990s, many biochemical and genetic studies were performed to investigate their physiological functions in various plant species. These studies have demonstrated that the plant GSK3-like kinases are multifunctional kinases involved not only in a wide variety of plant growth and developmental processes but also in diverse plant stress responses. Here we summarize our current understanding of the versatile physiological functions of the plant GSK3-like kinases along with their confirmed and potential substrates.

scholarly journals Crocodylian Head Width Allometry and Phylogenetic Prediction of Body Size in Extinct Crocodyliforms

2019 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Haley D O’Brien ◽  
Leigha M Lynch ◽  
Kent A Vliet ◽  
John Brueggen ◽  
Gregory M Erickson ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Body Size ◽  
Fossil Record ◽  
Mature Male ◽  
Head Width ◽  
Hard Tissue ◽  
Broad Array ◽  
Phylogenetic Model ◽  
Highly Correlated ◽  
Sexually Mature ◽  
Size Estimates

Synopsis Body size and body-size shifts broadly impact life-history parameters of all animals, which has made accurate body-size estimates for extinct taxa an important component of understanding their paleobiology. Among extinct crocodylians and their precursors (e.g., suchians), several methods have been developed to predict body size from suites of hard-tissue proxies. Nevertheless, many have limited applications due to the disparity of some major suchian groups and biases in the fossil record. Here, we test the utility of head width (HW) as a broadly applicable body-size estimator in living and fossil suchians. We use a dataset of sexually mature male and female individuals (n = 76) from a comprehensive sample of extant suchian species encompassing nearly all known taxa (n = 22) to develop a Bayesian phylogenetic model for predicting three conventional metrics for size: body mass, snout–vent length, and total length. We then use the model to estimate size parameters for a select series of extinct suchians with known phylogenetic affinity (Montsechosuchus, Diplocynodon, and Sarcosuchus). We then compare our results to sizes reported in the literature to exemplify the utility of our approach for a broad array of fossil suchians. Our results show that HW is highly correlated with all other metrics (all R2≥0.85) and is commensurate with femoral dimensions for its reliably as a body-size predictor. We provide the R code in order to enable other researchers to employ the model in their own research.

Changes in the Transcriptome of Dry Leafy Spurge (Euphorbia esula) Seeds Imbibed at a Constant and Alternating Temperature

Weed Science ◽  
2012 ◽  
Vol 60 (1) ◽  
pp. 48-56 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michael E. Foley ◽  
Wun S. Chao ◽  
Münevver Doğramaci ◽  
David P. Horvath ◽  
James V. Anderson
Keyword(s):  
Stress Responses ◽  
Anaerobic Respiration ◽  
Reducing Power ◽  
Principal Component ◽  
Leafy Spurge ◽  
Specific Effects ◽  
Temperature Regimes ◽  
Stress Related Genes ◽  
Alternating Temperature ◽  
Species Specific

Leafy spurge seeds are responsive to alternating temperature rather than constant temperature for germination. Transcriptome changes of dry leafy spurge seeds and seeds imbibed for 1 and 3 d at 20 C constant (C) and 20 : 30 C alternating (A) temperature were determined by microarray analysis to examine temperature responsiveness. Principal component analysis revealed differences in the transcriptome of imbibed seeds based on the temperature regime. Computational methods in bioinformatics parsed the data into overrepresented AraCyc pathways and gene regulation subnetworks providing biological context to temperature responses. After 1 d of imbibition, the degradation of starch and sucrose leading to anaerobic respiration were common pathways at both temperature regimes. Several overrepresented pathways unique to 1 d A were associated with generation of energy, reducing power, and carbon substrates; several of these pathways remained overrepresented and up-regulated at 3 d A. At 1 d C, pathways for the phytohormones jasmonic acid and brassinosteroids were uniquely overrepresented. There was little similarity in overrepresented pathways at 1 d C between leafy spurge and arabidopsis seeds, indicating species-specific effects upon imbibition of dry seeds. Overrepresented gene subnetworks at 1 d and 3 d at both temperature regimes related to signaling processes and stress responses. A major overrepresented subnetwork unique to 1 d C related to photomorphogenesis via the E3 ubiquitin ligase COP1. At 1 d A, major overrepresented subnetworks involved circadian rhythm via LHY and TOC1 proteins and expression of stress-related genes such as DREB1A, which is subject to circadian regulation. Collectively, substantial differences were observed in the transcriptome of leafy spurge seeds imbibed under conditions that affect the capacity to germinate.

scholarly journals An Overview of Transcriptional Responses of Schistosome-Susceptible (M line) or -Resistant (BS-90) Biomphalaria glabrata Exposed or Not to Schistosoma mansoni Infection

2022 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lijun Lu ◽  
Lijing Bu ◽  
Si-Ming Zhang ◽  
Sarah K. Buddenborg ◽  
Eric S. Loker
Keyword(s):  
Network Analysis ◽  
Schistosoma Mansoni ◽  
Stress Responses ◽  
Differential Expression Analysis ◽  
Biomphalaria Glabrata ◽  
Transcriptional Responses ◽  
Comprehensive Overview ◽  
Resistance Factors ◽  
Susceptibility Factors ◽  
Highly Correlated

BackgroundWe seek to provide a comprehensive overview of transcriptomics responses of immune-related features of the gastropod Biomphalaria glabrata (Bg) following exposure to Schistosoma mansoni (Sm), a trematode causing human schistosomiasis. Responses of schistosome-susceptible (M line, or SUS) and -resistant (BS-90, or RES) Bg strains were characterized following exposure to Sm for 0.5, 2, 8 or 40 days post-exposure (dpe).MethodsRNA-Seq and differential expression analysis were undertaken on 56 snails from 14 groups. We considered 7 response categories: 1) constitutive resistance factors; 2) constitutive susceptibility factors; 3) generalized stress responses; 4) induced resistance factors; 5) resistance factors suppressed in SUS snails; 6) suppressed/manipulated factors in SUS snails; and 7) tolerance responses in SUS snails. We also undertook a gene co-expression network analysis. Results from prior studies identifying schistosome resistance/susceptibility factors were examined relative to our findings.ResultsA total of 792 million paired-end reads representing 91.2% of the estimated 31,985 genes in the Bg genome were detected and results for the 7 categories compiled and highlighted. For both RES and SUS snails, a single most supported network of genes with highly correlated expression was found.Conclusions1) Several constitutive differences in gene expression between SUS and RES snails were noted, the majority over-represented in RES; 2) There was little indication of a generalized stress response shared by SUS and RES snails at 0.5 or 2 dpe; 3) RES snails mounted a strong, multi-faceted response by 0.5 dpe that carried over to 2 dpe; 4) The most notable SUS responses were at 40 dpe, in snails shedding cercariae, when numerous features were either strongly down-regulated indicative of physiological distress or parasite manipulation, or up-regulated, suggestive of tolerance or survival-promoting effects; 5) Of 55 genes previously identified in genome wide mapping studies, 29 (52.7%) were responsive to Sm, as were many familiar resistance-associated genes (41.0%) identified by other means; 6) Both network analysis and remarkably specific patterns of expression of lectins and G protein-coupled receptors in categories 4, 6 and 7 were indicative of orchestrated responses of different suites of genes in SUS or RES snails following exposure to Sm.

scholarly journals The effect of Rhodococcus rhodochrous supplementation on black soldier fly (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) development, nutrition, and waste conversion

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-12
Author(s):  
K. Franks ◽  
E. Kooienga ◽  
M. Sanders ◽  
K. Pendarvis ◽  
F. Yang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Fatty Acids ◽  
Stress Responses ◽  
Muscle Development ◽  
Protein Composition ◽  
Rhodococcus Rhodochrous ◽  
Larval Body ◽  
Black Soldier Fly ◽  
Black Soldier Fly Larvae ◽  
Fly Larvae ◽  
Waste Conversion

Black soldier fly larvae are mass produced globally for use as livestock, poultry, and aquaculture feed. Efforts are continuously seeking processes optimising larval rate of growth, size, and waste conversion as a means to lower cost and increase output. Manipulating microbes in the larval substrate (i.e. fermentation or supplementation) has been demonstrated as a potential solution. However, identifying appropriate microbes for use in this process has been limited. The objective of this study was to determine whether supplementing black soldier fly larvae with the oleaginous microbe Rhodococcus rhodochrous would result in accelerated larval development, increased final larval body size, and increased conversion efficiency. Larvae fed a sterile, or non-sterile, diet treated with R. rhodochrous grew 3× faster than the control by the third day and were approximately 2× larger than the control by the conclusion of the experiment. Conversion rate was 2× greater for the treatments indicating less feed would be needed to achieve maximum weight gain. Protein composition of resulting larvae fed diet supplemented with R. rhodochrous, was significantly different than the control not receiving the microbial infusion. Larvae provided the microbe had 4.20 and 2.79% greater fatty acid composition and short-chained fatty acids, respectively, but lower monounsaturated fatty acids (1.60%) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (2.4%). Furthermore, larvae provided R. rhodochrous produced significantly more proteins related to energy production and storage, as well as muscle development and contraction, while those sans microbe, produced proteins related to stress responses (e.g. heat shock proteins). While, this study yielded positive results for the inclusion of R. rhodochrous as part of the black soldier fly larval diet, additional research is needed to optimise the dose at an industrial scale.

scholarly journals An Attempt of Screw Driving Sounding Test in Malaysia

2018 ◽  
Vol 203 ◽  
pp. 04008
Author(s):  
Aminaton Marto ◽  
Go Sakai ◽  
Naoaki Suemasa ◽  
Nadiah Jamaludin
Keyword(s):  
Human Error ◽  
Standard Penetration Test ◽  
Coefficient Of Determination ◽  
Test Results ◽  
Skilled Workers ◽  
Investigation Methods ◽  
Probe Test ◽  
Highly Correlated ◽  
The Cost ◽  
Screw Driving

Conventional soil investigation methods such as Mackintosh Probe Test (MPT) have limitations, e.g., require manual work for the equipment and data accuracy is low due to human error. While Standard Penetration test (SPT) needs high skilled workers and the cost per testing is expensive. Hence, Screw Driving Sounding test (SDS) was developed in Japan as a solution to the aforementioned disadvantages. An attempt was done to implement this test in Malaysia at different types of soils. This paper presents the results obtained from Batu Pahat and Cheras sites. Data from SDS tests were compared with the existing data of SPT and MPT available from Batu Pahat and Cheras sites, respectively. Results of the coefficient of determination, R2 = 0.721 for Batu Pahat Site and 0.851 for Cheras Site illustrate that the SPT and MPT results are highly correlated with SDS test results. From this preliminary findings, it shows that SDS test has the potential for soil characterizations in soil investigation work in Malaysia.

Relationship between numbers of α2- and β2-adrenoceptors on blood cells of bulls and milkability of their daughters

1995 ◽  
Vol 62 (4) ◽  
pp. 567-575 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eddy Roets ◽  
Christian Burvenich ◽  
Jorn Hamann
Keyword(s):  
Milk Yield ◽  
Flow Rate ◽  
Blood Cells ◽  
Blood Platelets ◽  
Genetic Studies ◽  
Milk Flow ◽  
Cgp 12177 ◽  
Mononuclear Leucocytes ◽  
Highly Correlated

SUMMARYMilk yield and milking time were measured on one occasion for several daughters (n = 6–44) from 16 bulls at morning milkings. Blood from the bulls was collected, and platelets and mononuclear leucocytes were isolated. The α2-adrenoceptors on platelet membranes were identified by binding of [3H]rauwolscine, whereas for the determination of β2-adrenoceptors on intact mononuclear leucocytes, [3H]CGP–12177 was used. It was found that mean milk flow rate was highly correlated (P < 0·001) with the α2-adrenoceptor densities on blood platelets. No correlation was found with the β2-adrenoceptors on mononuclear leucocytes. It is concluded that estimation of the α2-adrenoceptors on blood platelets from bulls could eventually be used to investigate milking characteristics of cows, and might be useful in the future as a marker in genetic studies.

Planning genetic studies on primary adult-onset dystonia: Sample size estimates based on examination of first-degree relatives

2006 ◽  
Vol 251 (1-2) ◽  
pp. 29-34 ◽  
Author(s):  
Giovanni Defazio ◽  
Davide Martino ◽  
Maria Stella Aniello ◽  
Gianluca Masi ◽  
Angelo Gigante ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Sample Size ◽  
Adult Onset ◽  
Genetic Studies ◽  
First Degree Relatives ◽  
Size Estimates

Effects of Day and Night Temperature on Vegetative Growth of Texas Panicum (Panicum texanum)

Weed Science ◽  
1990 ◽  
Vol 38 (4-5) ◽  
pp. 365-373 ◽  
Author(s):  
David T. Patterson
Keyword(s):  
Leaf Area ◽  
Plant Biomass ◽  
Dry Weight ◽  
Maximum Growth ◽  
Temperature Threshold ◽  
Night Temperature ◽  
Temperature Regimes ◽  
Net Assimilation ◽  
Highly Correlated ◽  
C Partitioning

Texas panicum was grown in controlled-environment chambers in 16 day/night temperature regimes ranging from 19/11 to 34/26 C. After 33 days, maximum plant height, leaf area, and dry weight occurred at 34/26 C. The greatest number of tillers and leaves occurred at 34/16 C. Partitioning of plant biomass into stems increased with increasing night temperature, while partitioning into leaves tended to decrease. Partitioning of biomass into roots decreased with increasing night temperature at day temperatures of 19 or 24 C but not at 34 C. Plant dry matter production (DMP) was highly correlated with both leaf area duration (LAD) and net assimilation rate (NAR) during the first 2 weeks of growth. During the subsequent 3 weeks, DMP was highly correlated with LAD but not with NAR. The low-temperature threshold for growth of Texas panicum was approximately 11 C. Texas panicum attained 25% of its maximum growth at an average daily temperature of 21 C, 50% at 24 C, and 75% at 26 C. Texas panicum is unlikely to become a highly competitive weed outside the southern and southwestern United States.

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