Variant H3.3, along with H2A.Z, is notably enriched at promoter regions and is commonly associated with transcriptional activation. However, the specific molecular mechanisms through which H3.3 influences chromatin dynamics at transcription start sites, and its role in gene regulation, remain elusive. Using a combination of biochemistry and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), we show that the inclusion of H3.3 alone does not induce discernible changes in nucleosome DNA dynamics. Conversely, the presence of both H3.3 and H2A.Z enhances DNA’s flexibility similarly to H2A.Z alone. Interestingly, our findings suggest that the presence of H3.3 in the H2A.Z nucleosome provides slightly increased protection to DNA at internal sites within the nucleosome. These results imply that while H2A.Z at active promoters promotes the formation of more accessible nucleosomes with increased DNA accessibility to facilitate transcription, the simultaneous presence of H3.3 offers an additional mechanism to fine-tune nucleosome accessibility and the chromatin environment. Full article

Background: Heart failure, stroke and death are major dangers associated with atrial fibrillation (AF), a common abnormal heart rhythm. Having a gastrointestinal (GI) procedure puts patients at risk for developing AF, especially after large abdominal surgery. Although earlier research has shown a possible connection between postoperative AF and higher mortality, the exact nature of this interaction is yet uncertain. Methods: To investigate the relationship between AF and death after GI procedures, this research carried out a thorough meta-analysis and systematic review of randomized controlled studies or clinical trials. Finding relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) required a comprehensive search across many databases. Studies involving GI surgery patients with postoperative AF and mortality outcomes were the main focus of the inclusion criteria. We followed PRISMA and Cochrane Collaboration protocols for data extraction and quality assessment, respectively. Results: After GI surgery, there was no statistically significant difference in mortality between the AF and non-AF groups, according to an analysis of the available trials (p = 0.97). The mortality odds ratio (OR) was 1.03 (95% CI [0.24, 4.41]), suggesting that there was no significant correlation. Nevertheless, there was significant heterogeneity throughout the trials, which calls for careful interpretation. Conclusion: Despite the lack of a significant link between AF and death after GI surgery in our study, contradictory data from other research highlight the intricacy of this relationship. Discrepancies may arise from variations in patient demographics, research methodology and procedural problems. These results emphasize the necessity for additional extensive and varied studies to fully clarify the role of AF in postoperative mortality in relation to GI procedures. Comprehending the subtleties of this correlation might enhance future patient outcomes and contribute to evidence-based therapeutic decision making. Full article

The dispersal strategies of a species can affect its invasion success. Investigations into the dispersal strategies of invasive species in relation to different factors help improve our understanding of invasion mechanisms and provide knowledge for population management and invasion evaluation. Tetranychus ludeni Zacher (Acari: Tetranychidae) is an invasive species which is native to Europe but is now cosmopolitan. Here, we examined the effects of age and density on dispersal in mated females. Our results show that older females that are capable of producing more eggs within 24 h were more likely to disperse and moved longer distances than younger ones with fewer eggs. Older females spread most of their eggs out of their natal habitats and over longer distances, which reduced competition and increased offspring fitness. Females exhibited significantly increased dispersal probability and distances with an increase in population density to avoid crowding. The synchronization of dispersal and reproduction, along with the positive density-dependent dispersal strategy, may facilitate the habitat colonization and invasion speed of T. ludeni. Full article

Biochar application to soil is widely recognized as a promising agricultural management practice to increase crop production by enhancing the physical, chemical, and microbiological properties of the soil. Despite the fact that numerous studies have investigated biochar production and alterations in soil properties, the effects of biochar on contrasting soils within the same region remain poorly understood, especially for semi-arid regions. Therefore, a three-year field experiment was initiated in 2020 wherein biochar was applied once to a buckwheat field at rates of 0, 20, 40, and 60 Mg ha⁻¹ (BC0: no biochar; BC1: 20 Mg ha⁻¹; BC2: 40 Mg ha⁻¹; BC3: 60 Mg ha⁻¹) for two soil types (aeolian sandy and grey meadow soil) in the northeast of Inner Mongolia, China. The soil water storage (SWS), nutrient contents (organic matter, available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium), microbial biomass (carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus), and enzyme activities (urease, invertase, and alkaline phosphatase) were assessed at a soil depth of 0–15 cm as part of the soil quality assessment, and the buckwheat grain yield was estimated for crop productivity evaluation. The results showed that biochar amendment improved selected soil physicochemical and microbiological properties and buckwheat yields for both soil types. Compared to BC0, the biochar addition increased buckwheat yields, on average, by 11.23% to 22.82% in aeolian sandy soil and by 7.36% to 14.87% in grey meadow soil across three years. The results of principal component analysis (PCA) and random forest analysis (RFA) indicate that soil available nutrients and microbiological properties were the most important factors influencing buckwheat yields in aeolian sandy soil and grey meadow soil, respectively. Based on RFA, the available potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen were found to contribute at rates of 13.10%, 10.06%, and 8.12%, respectively, to buckwheat yields in aeolian sandy soil. In contrast, alkaline phosphatase, urease, and microbial biomass carbon contribute 20.26%, 8.48%, and 7.82%, respectively, to the buckwheat yields in grey meadow soil. Following biochar addition, there was greater improvement in soil health and buckwheat production for aeolian sandy soil than grey meadow soil. In conclusion, biochar addition is an effective practice for improving soil health and crop productivity in both aeolian sandy soil and grey meadow soil in semi-arid regions. Full article

The longevity of prosthetic hip implants is significantly influenced by wear. Surface textures of various length scales can reduce the friction coefficient and wear of lubricated bearing surfaces. The optimization of multiscale texture parameters, aimed at maximizing lubricant film thickness, was achieved through hydrodynamic lubrication simulations that solve the Reynolds equation with a mass-conserving cavitation model under various operating conditions. The outcomes indicate that adding “interstitial” texture features to a pattern of microscale texture features can further increase the lubricant film thickness. Additionally, the lubricant film thickness increases as the interstitial texture feature aspect ratio and texture density decrease. Pin-on-disc experiments align with simulation findings, demonstrating that multiscale texturing with ultra-fast laser ablation on Ti6Al4V discs significantly improves wettability and reduces the friction coefficient of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene pins when compared to untextured and microscale textured surfaces. The multiscale surface texturing also changes the evident wear mechanisms on the pins, reducing the incidence of abrasive scratches and adhesive wear compared to both untextured and just microscale textured surfaces. Full article

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is a leafy vegetable that provides a valuable source of phytonutrients for a healthy human diet. The assessment of plant growth and composition is vital for determining crop yield and overall quality; however, classical laboratory analyses are slow and costly. Therefore, new, less expensive, more rapid, and non-destructive approaches are being developed, including those based on (hyper)spectral reflectance. Additionally, it is important to determine how plant phenotypes respond to fertilizer treatments and whether these differences in response can be detected from analyses of hyperspectral image data. In the current study, we demonstrate the suitability of hyperspectral imaging in combination with machine learning models to estimate the content of chlorophyll (SPAD), anthocyanins (ACI), glucose, fructose, sucrose, vitamin C, β-carotene, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), dry matter content, and plant fresh weight. Five classification and regression machine learning models were implemented, showing high accuracy in classifying the lettuces based on the applied fertilizers treatments and estimating nutrient concentrations. To reduce the input (predictor data, i.e., hyperspectral data) dimension, 13 principal components were identified and applied in the models. The implemented artificial neural network models of the machine learning algorithm demonstrated high accuracy (r = 0.85 to 0.99) in estimating fresh leaf weight, and the contents of chlorophyll, anthocyanins, N, P, K, and β-carotene. The four applied classification models of machine learning demonstrated 100% accuracy in classifying the studied baby leaf lettuces by phenotype when specific fertilizer treatments were applied. Full article

With rapid urbanization in Taiwan, the green space has become a key factor in modifiable cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks. We investigated the relationships between socioeconomic status (SES), green space, and cerebrovascular disease (CBD) at the township level in Taiwan, focusing on urban–rural disparities. Analyzing data from 358 townships (2011–2020), we examined SES indicators (e.g., low-income households, education levels, median tax payments), green space (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index—NDVI), and CBD mortality rates using the pooled ordinary least squares (OLS) and random-effect models (REM) in panel regression. Additionally, we explored the mediating role of the NDVI in the SES-CBD mortality association. CBD mortality decreased more in urban areas over the decade, with consistent NDVI patterns across regions. Rural areas experienced a decline in low-income households, contrasting with an increase in urban areas. SES variables, NDVI, and time significantly affected CBD mortality in rural areas but not urban ones. Notably, the NDVI had a stronger impact on CBD mortality in rural areas. Mediation analysis revealed the NDVI’s indirect effects, especially in rural areas. Despite overall declines in CBD mortality in Taiwan, urban–rural disparities in SES and green space persist. Addressing these disparities is critical for understanding and developing interventions to mitigate health inequalities. Full article

Increased nitrogen (N) application has profound effects on CO₂ flux in croplands. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of long-term N addition on soil respiration (SR) in a rainfed winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) field in the Loess Plateau of China. Two wheat cultivars were planted under three levels of N application (0, 180, and 360 kg N ha⁻¹ year⁻¹) in non-irrigated cropland from 2004 to 2013. The diurnal and seasonal SR variations and abiotic and biotic factors were measured during the growing seasons in 2012–2013. The results showed that N₁₈₀ and N₃₆₀ increased the cumulative CO₂ flux by 30.3% and 32.4% on average after 5 and 10 years of N application, respectively. Multiple regressions revealed that the seasonal SR was mainly controlled by the soil temperature (ST), at a depth of 8 cm, and the leaf area index. Diurnal SR was mainly controlled by the ST and the net photosynthesis rate. Long-term N application stimulated SR by increasing the photosynthetic leaf area and temperature sensitivity. Overall, N application at a rate of 360 kg N ha⁻¹ year⁻¹ did not reach the threshold for limiting SR in the investigated semi-humid rainfed wheat cropland in the Loess Plateau of China. Full article

Statement of Problem: Environmental engineering confronts complex challenges characterized by significant uncertainties. Traditional modeling methods often fail to effectively address these uncertainties. As a promising direction, this study explores fuzzy machine learning (ML) as an underutilized alternative. Research Question: Although the potential of fuzzy logic is widely acknowledged, can its capabilities truly enhance environmental engineering applications? Purpose: This research aims to deepen the understanding of the role and significance of fuzzy logic in managing uncertainty within environmental engineering applications. The objective is to contribute to both theoretical insights and practical implementations in this domain. Method: This research performs a systematic review carried out in alignment with PRISMA guidelines, encompassing 27 earlier studies that compare fuzzy ML with other methods across a variety of applications within the field of environmental engineering. Results: The findings demonstrate how fuzzy-based models consistently outperform traditional methods in scenarios marked by uncertainty. The originality of this research lies in its systematic comparison and the identification of fuzzy logic’s transparent, interpretable nature as particularly suited for environmental engineering challenges. This approach provides a new perspective on integrating fuzzy logic into environmental engineering, emphasizing its capability to offer more adaptable and resilient solutions. Conclusions: The analysis reveals that fuzzy-based models significantly excel in managing uncertainty compared to other methods. However, the study advocates for a case-by-case evaluation rather than a blanket replacement of traditional methods with fuzzy models. This approach encourages optimal selection based on specific project needs. Practical Implications: Our findings offer actionable insights for researchers and engineers, highlighting the transparent and interpretable nature of fuzzy models, along with their superior ability to handle uncertainties. Such attributes position fuzzy logic as a promising alternative in environmental engineering applications. Moreover, policymakers can leverage the reliability of fuzzy logic in developing ML-aided sustainable policies, thereby enhancing decision-making processes in environmental management. Full article

Despite advancement in surgical innovation, C1-C2 fixation remains challenging due to risks of screw malposition and vertebral artery (VA) injuries. Traditional image-based navigation, while useful, often demands that surgeons frequently shift their attention to external monitors, potentially causing distractions. In this article, we introduce a microscope-based augmented reality (AR) navigation system that projects both anatomical information and real-time navigation images directly onto the surgical field. In the present case report, we discuss a 37-year-old female who suffered from os odontoideum with C1-C2 subluxation. Employing AR-assisted navigation, the patient underwent the successful posterior instrumentation of C1-C2. The integrated AR system offers direct visualization, potentially minimizing surgical distractions. In our opinion, as AR technology advances, its adoption in surgical practices and education is anticipated to expand. Full article

Background: Congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries (cc-TGA) is a defect characterized by arterio-ventricular and atrioventricular disconcordance. Most patients have co-existing cardiac abnormalities that warrant further treatment. Some patients do not require surgical intervention, but most undergo physiological repair or anatomical surgery, which enables them to reach adulthood. Aims: We aimed to evaluate mortality risk factors in patients with cc-TGA. Results: We searched the PubMed database and included 10 retrospective cohort studies with at least a 5-year follow-up time with an end-point of cardiovascular death a minimum of 30 days after surgery. We enrolled 532 patients, and 83 met the end-point of cardiovascular death or equivalent event. As a risk factor for long-term mortality, we identified New York Heart Association (NYHA) class ≥III/heart failure hospitalization (OR = 10.53; 95% CI, 3.17–34.98) and systemic ventricle dysfunction (SVD; OR = 4.95; 95% CI, 2.55–9.64). We did not show history of supraventricular arrhythmia (OR = 2.78; 95% CI, 0.94–8.24), systemic valve regurgitation ≥moderate (SVR; OR = 4.02; 95% Cl, 0.84–19.18), and pacemaker implantation (OR = 1.48; 95% Cl, 0.12–18.82) to affect the long-term survival. In operated patients only, SVD (OR = 4.69; 95% CI, 2.06–10.71) and SVR (OR = 3.85; 95% CI, 1.5–9.85) showed a statistically significant impact on survival. Conclusions: The risk factors for long-term mortality for the entire cc-TGA population are NYHA class ≥III/heart failure hospitalization and systemic ventricle dysfunction. In operated patients, systemic ventricle dysfunction and at least moderate systemic valve regurgitation were found to affect survival. Full article

Diamond–Blackfan anemia (DBA) is a rare genetic disorder affecting the bone marrow’s ability to produce red blood cells, leading to severe anemia and various physical abnormalities. Approximately 75% of DBA cases involve heterozygous mutations in ribosomal protein (RP) genes, classifying it as a ribosomopathy, with RPS19 being the most frequently mutated gene. Non-RP mutations, such as in GATA1, have also been identified. Current treatments include glucocorticosteroids, blood transfusions, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), with HSCT being the only curative option, albeit with challenges like donor availability and immunological complications. Gene therapy, particularly using lentiviral vectors and CRISPR/Cas9 technology, emerges as a promising alternative. This review explores the potential of gene therapy, focusing on lentiviral vectors and CRISPR/Cas9 technology in combination with non-integrating lentiviral vectors, as a curative solution for DBA. It highlights the transformative advancements in the treatment landscape of DBA, offering hope for individuals affected by this condition. Full article

The PI3K/AKT pathway plays a pivotal role in cellular processes, and its dysregulation is implicated in various cancers, including colorectal cancer. The present study correlates the expression levels of critical genes (PIK3CA, PTEN, AKT1, FOXO1, and FRAP) in 60 tumor tissues with clinicopathological and demographic characteristics. The results indicate age-related variation in FOXO1 gene expression, with higher levels observed in patients aged 68 and above. In addition, tumors originating from the rectum exhibit higher FOXO1 expression compared to colon tumors, suggesting region-specific differences in expression. The results also identify the potential correlation between PTEN, PIK3CA gene expression, and parameters such as tumor grade and neuroinvasion. The bioinformatic comparative analysis found that PTEN and FOXO1 expressions were downregulated in colorectal cancer tissue compared to normal colon tissue. Relapse-free survival analysis based on gene expression identified significant correlations, highlighting PTEN and FRAP as potential indicators of favorable outcomes. Our findings provide a deeper understanding of the role of the PI3K/AKT pathway in colorectal cancer and the importance of understanding the molecular basis of colorectal cancer development and progression. Full article

The brown macroalga Saccharina japonica (Laminariales, Phaeophyta) is the most productive cultured seaweed in the world. In order to improve the biosafety of transgenic kelp, it is necessary to develop endogenous constitutive promoters, replacing those of virus origin. In this study, the housekeeping actin gene from S. japonica (SjACT) was found to contain three exons and two introns, representing a unique actin gene structure pattern in brown algae. Additionally, the 5′ upstream region was obtained using genome walking, and fused to the reporter gene lacZ or EGFP to construct promoter-detective vectors. Using an established genetic transformation system, kelps in different life-cycle stages were transformed. The detection results showed that, in the diploid sporophyte stage, the transient expression from the lacZ gene could be observed in the frond, stipe, or holdfast of kelps, indicating a manner of being non-tissue-specific. And, in the haploid gametophyte stage of S. japonica, the fluorescence of the expressed EGFP were detected in vivo in gametophyte cells of both genders. These results indicate that the promoter of the SjACT gene (pSjACT) functions in a constitutive manner and is expected to be a key endogenous element in the genetic manipulation of kelps. Full article

Background: Post-radiation fractures are a significant complication of cancer treatment, often being challenging to manage and impacting patients’ quality of life. This study systematically reviews the literature on fractures in irradiated bones, focusing on risk factors, treatment modalities, and prevention strategies. Factors increasing fracture risk include exposure to high doses of radiation of at least 50 Gy, female gender, menopausal age, and periosteal stripping. Additionally further risk factors are the size of the original tumor and osteoporosis. Methods: A search of PubMed yielded 541 articles, with 4 were ultimately included in the review. These retrospective studies focused on patients undergoing Combined Limb-Sparing Surgery and Radiation Therapy for soft tissue sarcoma. Results: Results show post-radiation fractures affect approximately 4% of patients, with the femur being the most frequently affected site. Intramedullary nailing emerges as the gold standard treatment, with prosthetic replacement or megaprostheses used in the metaepiphyseal region and as salvage procedures. Non-union and infection remain formidable complications. Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of prophylactic nailing in fracture prevention and the efficacy of free vascularized fibular flaps to achieve bone union during revision surgeries. Limited case availability and patient follow-up hinder comprehensive studies, impacting treatment outcomes. Full article

As a significant crop growing all across the world, coffee is mostly produced in the bean belt of our global atlas. Worldwide variations in environmental conditions are causing a decline in the yield and quality of coffee varieties. Coffee production is the main emphasis of several traditional breeding techniques. But conventional breeding methods are not sufficient to tackle the problems related to coffee. The field of genomics, which includes transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, has made great paces in the last ten years. Proteomics is a well-known technique used to enhance the growth, yield, breeding, and quality of different plants under stable and shifting environments. The regulation of specific enzymes, genes, protein expression, modification, translation, and other features played an important role in the enhancement of important plants. However, relatively less research on the proteomics approach for coffee has been published in the last few years. For this reason, some of the most important aspects of proteome profiling for coffee plants have been covered in this review, including growth, the somatic embryo technique, altitude, environmental adoption, drought, and the role that proteins and important enzymes play in the flavor and taste of coffee. This review can aid in the breeding of new cultivars and improve coffee attributes. Furthermore, the present literature can pave the way for proteomics research on coffee. Full article

Urban green spaces are vital for older people’s health. However, most studies have only focused on their relationship with single-dimensional health outcomes. This study introduced a theoretical model to explore how perceptions of green spaces influence older people’s multidimensional health, mediated by the use of these spaces. Using a literature review, interviews, and surveys, we developed and refined a measurement scale for older people’s perceptions of urban greenery. Using data from 513 seniors in Fuzhou’s urban parks, structural equation modeling was used to examine the relationships between their multidimensional health, usage, and perceptions of green spaces. The results showed that older people’s positive evaluations of green spaces, especially those with facilities, significantly increased their usage. This increased usage positively influences their physical, mental, and social health, with the most pronounced benefits for social health. The total impact of green space perception on multidimensional health was beneficial and significantly impacted social health, even though the direct impacts of quality perception on physical health and facility perception on social health were minimal. These findings enhance our understanding of the impact of green spaces on the health of older individuals and provide a theoretical basis for developing urban green spaces that maximize health advantages for older people. Full article

Adjacent segment disease (ASD) is a prevalent complication following lumbar fusion surgery, representing a significant challenge in spinal surgery. This study aimed to assess the long-term outcomes of Nitinol spring rod semi-rigid fixation, a potential alternative to traditional rigid fixation, in reducing the incidence of ASD. This retrospective case study evaluated 89 patients who underwent lumbar or lumbosacral surgeries using a combination of Bioflex^® (a Nitinol spring rod dynamic stabilization system) and an interbody cage over 10 years of follow-up. The fusion status, adjacent segment disc height, mechanical complications, and re-operation rates were analyzed. The cohort had a median follow-up duration of 13.0 years. All patients achieved solid fusion at the final follow-up visit. One patient underwent revision surgery for clinical ASD (1.1%), and no patients required revision surgery due to mechanical problems. Radiological evidence of ASD was observed in 16.9% of the patients. This study’s findings suggest that semi-rigid fixation using Bioflex with an interbody cage is a possibly effective treatment strategy to prevent ASD. The technique potentially reduces the risk of ASD by allowing a degree of movement at the surgical site. Full article

Gamma knife radiosurgery (GKRS), a form of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), has gained importance in treating glioblastoma alongside conventional chemotherapy. This study aims to assess the efficacy of combining GKRS with surgery and chemotherapy to enhance treatment outcomes for glioblastoma patients. This prospective clinical study, adhering to STROBE guidelines, assessed 121 glioblastoma patients from June 2008 to December 2022. All patients who had not undergone prior radiotherapy underwent open surgical tumor resection, GKRS, and adjuvant chemotherapy. In the analyzed cohort, the median survival post-diagnosis was 21.2 months (95% CI: 11.4–26.7) and the median progression-free survival was 13.6 months (95% CI: 12.5–28.3). The median time to first recurrence post-treatment was 14.5 months (range: 4–33 months). The median prescribed dose for GKRS was 12 Gy (range: 10–17 Gy), with a median target volume of 6.0 cm³ (range: 1.6–68 cm³). Post GKRS, 92 patients experienced local recurrence, 21 experienced distant recurrence, and 87 received additional treatment, indicating diverse responses and treatment engagement. This study evaluates the use of GKRS for glioblastomas, emphasizing its efficacy and complications in a single-center trial. It suggests integrating GKRS into initial treatment and for recurrences, highlighting the comparable survival rates but underscoring the need for further research. Full article

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can lead to severe respiratory illness, rapid disease progression, and higher rates of intensive care unit admission in pregnant women. Infection during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of preterm delivery, cesarean section, fetal dysfunction, preeclampsia, and perinatal death. Vertical transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) from pregnant women to their fetuses has also been observed. Although severe infections in neonates and infants are rare, newborns can experience serious consequences from COVID-19 due to their suboptimal humoral immune system protection. The amino acids in the structural proteins of SARS-CoV-2 are constantly mutating. Since around January 2023, COVID-19, caused by omicron-type SARS-CoV-2 variants, has been prevalent globally. These variants can evade the immune response triggered by traditional mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines, such as BNT162b2. Therefore, vaccination with BNT162b2 XBB.1.5, which provides protection against omicron-type SARS-CoV-2 variants, is recommended. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 148 pregnant women who received the BNT162b2 XBB.1.5 vaccine at 30 partner medical institutions from September 2023 to January 2024. We examined the titers of anti-spike glycoprotein SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobin G (IgG) and IgA in the blood and umbilical cord blood obtained from the participants using ELISA. Findings: Anti-spike glycoprotein SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgA titers were highest in the blood and cord blood at late gestational age (28–34 weeks). No serious side effects or adverse events were observed in either the pregnant women or their newborns. Interpretation: Pregnant women who received the BNT162b2 XBB.1.5 vaccine during gestational weeks 28 to 34 had the highest titers of anti-omicron SARS-CoV-2 variant antibodies in their blood. Moreover, these antibodies were transferred to their umbilical cord blood. To validate our findings, large cohort clinical studies involving numerous pregnant women are warranted. Funding: This study was funded by Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) and Grants-in-Aid for Medical Research from the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED). Full article

In this study, we investigated the correlation between the composition and function of the gut microbiota and the semen quality of Rongchang boars. Significant differences in gut microbial composition between boars with high (group H) and low (group L) semen utilization rates were identified through 16S rRNA gene sequencing, with 18 differential microbes observed at the genus level. Boars with lower semen utilization rates exhibited a higher relative abundance of Treponema, suggesting its potential role in reducing semen quality. Conversely, boars with higher semen utilization rates showed increased relative abundances of Terrisporobacter, Turicibacter, Stenotrophomonas, Clostridium sensu stricto 3, and Bifidobacterium, with Stenotrophomonas and Clostridium sensu stricto 3 showing a significant positive correlation with semen utilization rates. The metabolomic analyses revealed higher levels of gluconolactone, D-ribose, and 4-pyridoxic acid in the H group, with 4 pyridoxic acid and D-ribose showing a significant positive correlation with Terrisporobacter and Clostridium sensu stricto 3, respectively. In contrast, the L group showed elevated levels of D-erythrose-4-phosphate, which correlated negatively with Bifidobacterium and Clostridium sensu stricto 3. These differential metabolites were enriched in the pentose phosphate pathway, vitamin B6 metabolism, and antifolate resistance, potentially influencing semen quality. These findings provide new insights into the complex interplay between the gut microbiota and boar reproductive health and may offer important information for the discovery of disease biomarkers and reproductive health management. Full article