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Background: Sika deer (Cervus nippon Temminck , 1838) antler is a highly esteemed tonic renowned for its abundant assortment of polypeptides, polysaccharides, amino acids, and minerals, and is recognized for its multifarious pharmacological properties. However, limited research has been conducted regarding the variation in composition of deer antlers between the upper and basal sections, as well as their pharmacological effects on immunological activity and anti-fatigue in mice. The objective of this study was to conduct a comprehensive analysis on the appearance, chemical composition, and pharmacological effects of different components within sika deer antlers. This investigation aims to elucidate the disparities in quality among various parts of antlers and establish a theoretical foundation for the precise utilization of sika deer antlers. Methods: The contents of protein, amino acids, polysaccharides, phospholipids, minerals and nucleotides in wax, powder, gauze and bone slices were determined by different nutrient assays. Then, 100 mice were randomly divided into 5 groups. The mice in control group were administered 0.3 mL of saline solution per day. The mice in experimental groups were administered 0.3 mL enzymatic hydrolysate of the wax slice, powder slice, gauze slice, bone slice separately per day, continuously for 14 days from the first day. The effect of antler on boosting immunity was evaluated by testing organ indices and assessing immunoglobulin levels by ELISA. Anti-fatigue effects were assessed by a mouse swimming test. Finally, the correlation between composition and pharmacological effects was analysed. Results: The content of each marker substance gradually decreases from the upper to the basal of deer antler. The protein and uracil content in the wax slice were significantly higher than the other three groups (p < 0.05), and the phospholipid and inosine content were strongly significantly higher than the other three groups (p < 0.01). The content of polysaccharides and hypoxanthine in the wax slice group and powder slice group was significantly higher than that in the gauze slice group and bone slice group (p < 0.05). The amino acid content decreases from the upper to the basal section. Among, the content of Glu, Gly, His, and Pro wax slice was significantly higher than the other three groups (p < 0.01). The content of other minerals except Fe and Mg in the wax slice group was significantly higher than the other three groups (p < 0.01), and the content of Fe and Mg in the bone slice was the highest. Additionally, the immune organ index, immunoglobulin, and glycogen contents displayed a significant increase in comparison to both the control group and the other experimental groups (p < 0.05). And the swimming endurance of mice in the wax slice group was significantly prolonged (p < 0.01). The skeletal muscle state of the wax group mice exhibited superior characteristics, characterized by distinct horizontal stripes and tightly arranged muscle fibers. In contrast, the bone group displayed noticeable yet relatively less compact horizontal stripes. Among the organic and inorganic compositions of deer antler, the highest degree of correlation with the content of IgA, IgM, and IgG was found to be protein (r2 = 0.999), uracil (r2 = 0.987), and inosine (r2 = 0.999), respectively. The proteins (r2 = 0.997) appear to exert a significant influence on the anti-fatigue effect, while polysaccharides (r2 = 0.865) demonstrate the least relevance. Conclusion: These outcomes indicated that the wax slice yielded optimal results among the tested parts and demonstrated the highest efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Hair is known to preserve diet history and other physiological information during its growth period and is often used in chemical analyses. However, the growth patterns and turnover of hair vary according to the animal species or habitat, so understanding these patterns in the target animal is necessary for interpreting the results of hair analyses. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the growth pattern and dietary information of winter coat hair in captive sika deer (Cervus nippon). Methods: Experiments involving hair‐staining and shaving were conducted to elucidate the growth pattern of sika deer hair. A diet‐switching experiment was conducted to ascertain what dietary information is reflected in the carbon and nitrogen stable isotope values of the deer winter coat. Hair samples collected from each body site (head, shoulder, back, and hip) were analyzed using an elemental analyser interfaced with an isotope‐ratio mass spectrometer. Results: The winter coat grows from early September to early November, and then stops after that. During the growth period of the winter coat, the hair of the shoulder and back grew at a constant rate. The carbon and nitrogen stable isotope values of hair reflected the deer's feeding history during hair growth, but there seemed to be a time lag in the hip hair. Conclusions: The results suggest that the guard hair of the shoulder is suitable for hair analysis in sika deer. The obtained information on growth patterns and isotopic change of hair from captive sika deer according to diet be useful for interpreting the results of future analyses using hair samples of wild deer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The composition and function of animal gut microbiota are shaped by various factors, among which diet is one of the major factors. Diet is affected by seasonal shifts and geographical differences, which in turn impact the host's nutritional levels. To adapt to these environmental changes, the gut microbiome often produces matching responses. Understanding the relationships among the environment, diet, host and the gut microbiome is helpful for exploring the environmental adaptation of wildlife. Here, we chose wild sika deer (Cervus nippon), which is composed natural allopatric populations, to explore how the environment shapes the gut microbiome and affects the relationship between microbiota composition and function and the mutual adaptation of the seasonal living environment to seasonal dietary changes. To this purpose we used DNA metabarcoding, 16S RNA gene amplification sequencing, metagenomic shotgun sequencing and nutritional analyses to comprehensively examine the relationships among the forage plant, nutrient status and host gut microbiome. Our analyses showed spatiotemporal differences in diet between the Tiebu and Hunchun regions, which ultimately led to varying intakes of protein, cellulose, and soluble sugar. The microbiome composition and function showed unique characteristics in each group, and significant differences were detected at the gene level for the protein absorption and metabolism pathway, the carbohydrate metabolic absorption pathway, and cellulase enzyme function, which are related to nutrition. We also found differences in the pathogenic bacteria and resistance mechanisms genes of the gut microbiota in different groups. Our results showed that the gut microbiome of allopatric populations adapts to changes in food composition and nutrition in different seasons and areas to help the host cope with spatiotemporal changes in the living environment. At the same time, varying levels of human activity can have potential health impacts on wild animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Population density is a valuable metric used to manage wildlife populations. In the Russian Far East, managers use the Formozov‐ Malyushev‐Pereleshin (FMP) snow tracking method to estimate densities of ungulates for hunting management. The FMP also informs Amur tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) conservation since estimates of prey density and biomass help inform conservation interventions. Yet, climate change and challenges with survey design call into question the reliability of the FMP. Camera traps offer a promising alternative, but they remain unexplored for monitoring tiger prey density. Over three years (2020‐2022), we used the FMP and camera‐based methods to estimate densities of four prey species of the Amur tiger in the Sikhote‐ Alin Biosphere Reserve, Russian Far East: wild boar (Sus scrofa), red deer (Cervus canadensis), roe deer (Capreolus pygargus), and sika deer (Cervus nippon). We compared FMP results from snow track survey routes either along trails, or along routes representative of the study area, and estimates derived from camera data using the random encounter model (REM), space‐to‐event model (STE), and time‐to‐event model (TTE). We found that density estimates from representative routes were typically lower than routes along trails and indicated different relative densities of prey. Density estimates from camera traps and representative track surveys were generally similar with no significant relative bias, but precision was poor for all methods. Differences between estimates were amplified when converted to prey biomass, particularly with larger, more abundant prey, which poses a challenge for their utility for tiger managers. We conclude camera traps can offer an alternative to snow track surveys when monitoring unmarked prey, but we caution that they require considerably more resources to implement. Tiger managers should be especially cautious when extrapolating density to estimates of prey biomass, and we encourage future research to develop more robust methods for doing so. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Animal species show marked variations in their cerebrovascular responses to substances that affect blood vessel tone, like noradrenaline, histamine, acetylcholine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, angiotensin II, and bradykinin. These variations may result from the receptor subtype distribution in smooth muscle or endothelial cells, and reflect the interplay of evolutionary and genetic influences for different animal species. Recently, we have investigated whether and how the response to one of these substances, noradrenaline, is related to deviations from an even heart-to-head alignment in an animal's normal posture (which has implications for the gravitational effect on blood flow), for multiple species. Sika deer are even-toed ungulates, closely related to cattle. Close phylogenetic relatives have often been found to show similar cerebrovascular responses, but deer and cattle have a very different heart-to-head alignment. Accordingly, we compared the cerebrovascular responses between sika deer and other ungulates. We found that deer and other even-toed ungulates have similar cerebrovascular responses to histamine, bradykinin, Nω-nitro-L-arginine, and indomethacin (evaluated with cattle), but different responses to noradrenaline and acetylcholine (evaluated with pigs and cattle). We considered that cerebrovascular responses to noradrenaline may positively correlate with gravity (as it affects blood flow in a normal posture) in quadrupedal animals. Gravity may exert species-specific effects on quadrupedal vasoreactivity, reflecting variations in the vertical displacement of the cardiocranial axis from the dorsal plane. Deer show markedly displaced cardiocranial axes compared to their closest phylogenetic relatives, but their relative cerebrovascular responses remain unelucidated. Accordingly, we investigated the responses to noradrenaline (NA), acetylcholine (ACh), 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), histamine, angiotensin (Ang) II, and bradykinin (BK) in cervine basilar arterial rings. NA and 5-HT induced slight contraction, and ACh induced relaxation, which contrasts with the findings reported in pigs and cattle. The cumulative response to ACh was abolished by endothelial denudation and inhibited by Nω-nitro-L-arginine (a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor), atropine (a nonselective muscarinic antagonist), and p-fluoro-hexahydro-sila-difenidol (an M3 antagonist). Pirenzepine (an M1 antagonist) and methoctramine (an M2 antagonist) showed no significant effects. Histamine induced contractions, with its concentration–response curve shifted to the right in parallel by diphenhydramine (an H1 antagonist). However, cimetidine (an H2 antagonist) showed no significant effects. Ang II and BK had no vasomotive effects. NA and ACh induced different cerebrovascular responses in sika deer versus cattle, but histamine and BK did not. Our findings suggest that cerebrovascular responses are influenced by the similarity of animal species and the head and heart positions relative to gravity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Deer‐derived materials (antler, venison, fetus, penis, bone, tail, and others) are some of the most valuable traditional animal‐based medicinal and food materials in China. In production, processing, and trade, the quality of deer products varies. The market is confusing, and counterfeit and shoddy products are common. There is an urgent need to establish an accurate identification method. RESULTS: Two pairs of primers suitable for identifying deer‐derived medicinal materials were obtained by screening the cytochrome oxidase I (COI) sequences of 18 species from nine genera of the deer family. The two primers were used to identify the species and adulteration of 22 batches of commercially available deer‐derived products with a mini‐barcode combining high‐resolution melting (HRM) technology and methodical investigation. Deer‐derived materials (sika and red deer) were correctly identified by species using varying DNA amounts (1 to 500 ng). The two pairs of primers COI‐1FR and COI‐2FR yielded melting temperatures (Tm) of 80.55 to 81.00 °C and 82.00 to 82.50 °C for sika deer, and 81.00 to 82.00 °C and 81.40 to 82.00 °C for red deer. Twenty‐two batches of commercially available samples were analyzed by HRM analysis and conventional amplification sequencing, and it was found that the species samples had an error rate of species labeling of 31.8%. Four batches of samples were identified as mixed (adulterated) in the HRM analysis. CONCLUSION: The combination of DNA mini‐barcode with HRM analysis facilitated the accurate identification of species of deer‐derived materials, especially the identification of samples in an adulterated mixed state. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the genomic landscape of Sika deer populations, emphasizing the detection and characterization of runs of homozygosity (ROH) and their contribution towards components of fitness. Using 85,001 high-confidence SNPs, the investigation into ROH distribution unveiled nuanced patterns of autozygosity across individuals especially in 2 out of the 8 farms, exhibiting elevated ROH levels and mean genome coverage under ROH segments. The prevalence of shorter ROH segments (0.5-4 Mb) suggests historical relatedness and potential selective pressures within these populations. Intriguingly, despite observed variations in ROH profiles, the overall genomic inbreeding coefficient (FROH) remained relatively low across all farms, indicating a discernible degree of genetic exchange and effective mitigation of inbreeding within the studied Sika deer populations. Consensus ROH (cROH) were found to harbor genes for important functions viz., EGFLAM gene which is involved in the vision function of the eye, SKP2 gene which regulates cell cycle, CAPSL involved in adipogenesis, SPEF2 which is essential for sperm flagellar assembly, DCLK3 involved in the heat stress. This first ever study on ROH in Sika deer, to shed light on the adaptive role of genes in these homozygous regions. The insights garnered from this study have broader implications in the management of genetic diversity in this vulnerable species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the issues of conservation, distribution, and acclimatization of sika deer on the territory of the Russian Federation, the Central Federal District and of the National Park State Complex Zavidovo. A detailed analysis of the condition of the first range of sika deer in the Primorsky krai is given, as well as the history of settlement and dynamics of its population in the Russian Federation. For the regions of the Central Federal District, the results of the cadastral assessment of sika deer resources were calculated, including the average long-term number, the average long-term population density (animals) per 1000 hectares of characteristic lands, and the average long-term cost of resources (million rubles). As an effective model for the acclimatization of sika deer, the experience of its economic use was carried out in the Zavidovo National Park State Complex (Tver region). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural loss due to the overpopulation of Sika deer poses a significant challenge in Japan, leading to frequent human–wildlife conflicts. We conducted a study in Muroran, Hokkaido (42°22′56.1″ N–141°01′51.5″ E), with the objective of monitoring Sika deer and notifying farmers and locals. We deployed a Sika deer detection model (YOLOv8-nano) on a Raspberry Pi, integrated with an infrared camera that captured images only when a PIR sensor was triggered. To further understand the timing of Sika deer visits and potential correlations with environmental temperature and humidity, respective sensors were installed on Raspberry Pi and the data were analyzed using an ANOVA test. In addition, a buzzer was deployed to deter Sika deer from the study area. The buzzer was deactivated in the first 10 days after deployment and was activated in the following 20 days. The Sika deer detection model demonstrated excellent performance, with precision and recall values approaching 1, and a bounding box creation latency of 0.82 frames per second. Once a bounding box was established after Sika deer detection, alert notifications were automatically sent via email and the LINE messaging application, with an average notification time of 0.32 s. Regarding the buzzer's impact on Sika deer, 35% of the detected individuals reacted by standing upright with alert ears, while 65% immediately fled the area. Analysis revealed that the time of day for Sika deer visits was significantly correlated with humidity (F = 8.95, p < 0.05), but no significant association with temperature (F = 0.681, p > 0.05). These findings represent a significant step toward mitigating human–wildlife conflicts and reducing agricultural production losses through effective conservation measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of long-term observations are summed up, making it possible to assess patterns and identify the reasons for changes in the numbers, current distribution, and interspecific relationships of ungulates in the Ussuriysky Nature Reserve. A comparison of archival materials and data from the last decade shows that changes in the abundance and distribution of most ungulate species in the reserve are inextricably linked with the increase in the number of sika deer. After the introduction of this species into the territory over 70 years, its number increased from 25 to 1180 individuals, and the population density reached an average of 30 individuals/1000 ha. Over the same period, the number of red deer in the Ussuriysky Nature Reserve decreased from 450 to 130 individuals, that is, more than three times. In the Suvorovsky forestry, there is currently a decrease in the number by about half (from 250–280 to 110 individuals); in the Komarovsky forestry, the number has decreased by about 10 times (from 180–200 to 15–20 individuals). The number and distribution of roe, musk deer, and wild boar in the territory has not changed as obviously. The current number of roe in the reserve is 170 individuals, with a population density of 4 individuals/1000 ha. The number of wild boars is about 200 individuals, with a population density of 4–5 individuals/1000 ha. The accounting methodology that was developed and applied has made it possible to obtain reliable data on the number and distribution of ungulates throughout the Ussuriysky Nature Reserve. There are concerns about a further increase in the number of sika deer in connection with the implementation of biotechnical measures in the reserve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the meat quality of Sika deer (Cervus nippon) from various age and sex groups using the longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle. Samples from different age groups (2, 3, and 4 years old) were analyzed for various parameters. The results show that, with increasing age, there is a decrease in moisture and drip loss (p < 0.05), alongside increases in ash, protein, fat, and cooking loss (p < 0.05). Female deer showed an increase in tenderness (p < 0.05), whereas males generally had a higher amino acid content (p < 0.05). Interestingly, 2-year-old female Sika deer had more saturated fatty acids (p < 0.05), while 3- and 4-year-old females had more unsaturated fatty acids compared to age-matched males (p < 0.05). Notably, 3-year-olds had higher levels of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids in both the male and female groups (p < 0.05). Overall, this study provides the first comprehensive evidence that Sika deer meat is a nutritious source of lean protein. Notably, meat from 3-year-old Sika deer, regardless of sex, contains higher nutrient levels and is more tender compared to meat from deer of other ages. Additionally, meat from females tends to be more tender than that from males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to investigate the nutritional processing quality of sika deer (Cervus nippon) venison at different sites, the pH24 h, tenderness, pressurized water loss rate, meat color, intramuscular fat, moisture, protein, amino acid, fatty acid and squalene contents of sika deer venison were determined in twelve sites: foreleg, hind leg, outer tenderloin, rump, neck meat, chest meat, deer flank, abdominal rib, high rib, tenderloin, anterior tendon and posterior tendon. The results showed that the pH24 h of sika deer venison at different sites was 5.49~5.78; the tenderness of outer tenderloin (31.71 N) was the lowest, and the neck meat (68.53 N) was the highest; the squeezing moisture of tenderloin (28.12%) was the largest, and the foreleg (12.34%) was the smallest; the brightness of outer tenderloin L* (29.68) was the lowest, and the redness a* and yellowness b* of deer flank were the highest; the intramuscular fat and moisture were 0.66~4.97% and 71.00~73.78%, respectively; and the protein content of outer tenderloin (23.44%) and rump (24.02%) was high. The venison meat contained 17 kinds of amino acids, and the total amount was 63.87~79.33 g/100 g. It was rich in essential amino acids, mainly lysine and leucine, accounting for 64.29~65.39% of non-essential amino acids, which was close to the ideal protein composition. Palmitoleic acid and oleic acid were the main monounsaturated fatty acids in venison, and the contents of abdominal ribs were the highest, 16,875.33 mg/kg and 31,772.73 mg/kg, respectively. The contents of essential fatty acids were also the highest in abdominal ribs (11,225.37 mg/kg); forelegs, hind legs, outer tenderloins, rumps, neck meat, chest meat, high rib, tenderloins, anterior tendons and posterior tendons were all good sources of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Squalene content was highest in the abdominal rib (100.85 mg/kg). The nutritional processing quality of sika deer venison in different muscles is significantly different, and this study can provide a data basis for the evaluation and processing of sika deer venison quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unlike the top‐down cascading effects driven by apex predators, the bottom‐up effects on biological interactions originating from herbivory by large mammals, especially within mammalian assemblages, have received less attention. This study aimed to identify the multifaceted impacts driven by sika deer (Cervus nippon) during midwinters, when their herbivory impacts were expected to be strong due to deficient dietary resources. We focused on interference and exploitative competition caused by deer on the habitat use of four sympatric mammal species, namely two herbivores (Japanese serow, Capricornis crispus, and Japanese hare, Lepus brachyurus angustidens) and two mesocarnivores (red fox, Vulpes vulpes, and Japanese marten, Martes melampus melampus). To estimate the wintering behaviors of these mammals and deer herbivory pressure, we performed snow tracking and counted the fresh feeding marks of deer during midwinter in 2022 and 2023. We conducted surveys on 201‐km transects with different stages of deer population recovery (i.e., different deer population densities) in heavy snowfall regions of Japan. We then systematically quantified the deer‐driven effects on sympatric mammals using piecewise structural equation modeling (SEM). We recorded 1700 tracks of target mammals and 1327 trees with deer feeding marks. Based on these records, we constructed an SEM with acceptable performance (Fisher's C = 27.1, P = 0.30). The SEM suggested some possibilities that exploitative competition mediated by deer herbivory constrained the habitat use of mammals with dietary habits similar to that of deer, i.e., serow (effect size, −0.13) and hares (−0.14). In addition, through constricting the habitat use of hares, the deer‐driven cascading effects reduced the occurrence of their key predators, i.e., foxes (−0.12) and martens (−0.10). Thus, our observations provide novel evidence that food webs are regulated by herbivore‐driven bottom‐up cascading effects in cases where plant primary productivity is limited by heavy snowfall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Litter decomposition is critical for maintaining productivity and nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems. Large herbivores play an essential role in determining the processes of nutrient cycling. Asian temperate forests are becoming degraded and fragmented by the widespread intensification of anthropogenic activities, including excessive livestock grazing. However, the effects of livestock grazing and wild ungulates on forest litter decomposition remain less explored. In this study, we used a litterbag experiment to investigate the effects of the addition of cattle (Bos taurus) and sika deer (Cervus nippon) feces on litter decomposition. The study was conducted in Northeast China from July 2022 to October 2023. We found that the addition of deer feces significantly reduced litter decomposition, but the addition of cattle feces greatly increased litter decomposition. The presence of cattle and deer excrement significantly accelerated the release of C after 1 year of litter decomposition. Compared with the results of the control group (no addition of feces), the addition of cattle and sika deer feces increased C release by 37.45% and 22.69%, respectively. Fecal addition increased the release of N; however, for the three treatment groups, the maximum accumulation of N occurred in the middle of litter decomposition, which may have been due to the initial chemical quality of the leaves and snow melt as well as nutrient limitations at the sites. Compared with the results of the control group, P release in the feces of cattle increased by 4.35%, but P release in the feces of deer decreased by 27.55%. This work highlights that feces deposition by large herbivores (e.g., wild or domestic) in the forest has nonequivalent effects on litter decomposition. Such effects may further alter the nutrient cycling in temperate forest ecosystems, with far‐reaching effects on the ecosystem that deserve closer attention. We suggest that conservation managers should seek evidence‐based interventions to optimize livestock use of forest habitats shared with wildlife. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Babesia divergens/B. capreoli group includes parasites with confirmed or possible zoonotic potential to cause human babesiosis. Currently, diagnostic antigen of the group has not been established. In this study, we investigated the ortholog of Bd37, a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored major merozoite surface protein of B. divergens sensu stricto, in the Asia lineage of the group. From two genomic isolates from sporozoite/sporoblast stages, three Bd37 gene variants, namely Bd37 JP-A, JP-B, and JP-C, were isolated with 62.3--64.1% amino acid sequence identity. Discriminative blood direct PCR revealed that Bd37 JP-A was encoded in all parasites infecting wild sika deer examined (n=22). While Bd37 JP-B and JP-C genes were randomly detected in 12 and 11 specimens, respectively. Sequencing of all JP-A variants revealed that the gene was polymorphic, with a low ratio of non-synonymous to synonymous substitutions (dN/dS) and that a highly polymorphic region was not related to predicted B-cell epitopes. A recombinant JP-A-based ELISA showed an overall positive rate of 13.9% in sika deer in Japan from north (Hokkaido) to south (Kyushu island) across 24 prefectures (n=360). This positive rate was twice as high as that examined by 18S rRNA-based PCR (6.6%). The geographical trends in infection rates were consistent. This study demonstrated that direct examination was informative for revealing genetic background and selecting antigen candidates. Bd37 orthologs may serve diagnostic purposes in combination with indirect fluorescence assay, which requires biological isolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality and completeness of the reference database have a direct impact on the accuracy of forage plant identification, thereby influencing the level of conservation and management of wildlife resources. In our research, target amplification was subjected to first-generation sequencing to assemble a local reference database using chloroplast trnL metabarcoding. We found that the primers c-h outperformed g-h as a universal DNA metabarcoding and 162 valid choloroplast trnL sequences were submitted (GenBank ID: PP081756 - PP081917), which exhibited an obvious preference for A and T nucleotides (60.49%). The haplotype diversity (Hd), nucleotide diversity (Pi) and average number of nucleotide differences (K) of these trnL sequences were 0.978, 0.0484 and 4.743, respectively. To assess the availability of the local database in identifying the diet of South China sika deer (Cervus nippon kopschi), high-throughput metabarcoding sequencing and BLAST analysis were performed. Ultimately, 25 forage plant species were identified, belonging to 19 families and 25 genera. Shrubs and herbaceous plants, such as Potentilla freyniana, Persicaria perfoliata, Rosa laevigata and Ardisia japonica etc, dominated the forage plants. This study established a local trnL reference database that holds immense value for the forage plant identification and nutritional evaluation for sika deer and other sympatric herbivores, as well as the conservation and management of biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is becoming an important driver of biodiversity loss by altering the habitat, distribution and interspecific relationships of species. Japanese yew (Taxus cuspidata) is a first class protected plant in China, which has important ecological significance and occupies a certain position in the feeding habit of wapiti (Cervus elaphus) and Siberian roe deer (Capreolus pygargus). Due to human and animal damage, the number of Japanese yew has gradually decreased. Therefore, understanding the potential distribution of Japanese yew and the suitable areas for deer to browse on it under climate change will help to further protect these three species in Northeast China, especially migrate to more suitable areas in different scenarios in the future. From July 2021 to July 2024, we collected the information of species distribution and the variables associated with the species' ecological limits in Muling National Nature Reserve to cross-reflect the current and future distribution and feeding area of the two species to assess each other's impacts with Maximum entropy model (MaxEnt). The results showed that under the SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios, feeding pressure, driest quarter precipitation (BIO17) and seasonal temperature variation coefficient (BIO4) were the main variables affecting the distribution of Japanese yew, and the driest quarter precipitation (BIO17) and annual precipitation (BIO12) were the main variables affecting wapiti and Siberian roe deer foraging them. Under SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios, the suitable area of Japanese yew and the feeding area of the two species of deer gradually decreased from 2041 to 2100. Compared with wapiti, Siberian roe deer has a greater impact on the distribution range of Japanese yew, and the suitable feeding area is wider. It is expected that the potential centroid of Japanese yew, wapiti and Siberian roe deer will migrate to higher latitudes in the future. These findings provide a scientific basis for the reserve to develop relevant measures and plans and effectively protect the three species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Parathyroid hormone like hormone (PTHLH), as an essential factor for bone growth, is involved in a variety of physiological processes. The aim of this study was to explore the role of PTHLH gene in the growth of antlers. Methods The coding sequence (CDS) of PTHLH gene cDNA was obtained by cloning in sika deer (Cervus nippon), and the bioinformatics was analyzed. The quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to analyze the differences expression of PTHLH mRNA in different tissues of the antler tip at different growth periods (early period, EP; middle period, MP; late period, LP). Results The CDS of PTHLH gene was 534 bp in length and encoded 177 amino acids. Predictive analysis results revealed that the PTHLH protein was a hydrophilic protein without transmembrane structure, with its secondary structure consisting mainly of random coil. The PTHLH protein of sika deer had the identity of 98.31%, 96.82%, 96.05%, and 94.92% with Cervus canadensis, Bos mutus, Oryx dammah and Budorcas taxicolor, which were highly conserved among the artiodactyls. The qRT-PCR results showed that PTHLH mRNA had a unique spatio-temporal expression pattern in antlers. In the dermis, precartilage, and cartilage tissues, the expression of PTHLH mRNA was extremely significantly higher in MP than in EP, LP (p

The foraging strategies of sympatric ungulates with similar ecological niches are important for understanding ecological niche differentiation, resource utilization, competition, and coexistence and for understanding the ecological impacts on plant communities in the ecosystem. The behavior of the wapiti (Cervus elaphus) and Siberian roe deer (Capreolus pygargus) foraging on Japanese yew (Taxus cuspidata) has affected its succession and renewal in the northeastern forests of China, which has become an urgent problem for the relevant departments. This study analyzed the foraging strategies of the wapiti and Siberian roe deer on Japanese yew from July 2021 to January 2024 using field investigations and infrared camera monitoring in the Muling National Nature Reserve, Heilongjiang Province, China. It was found that the wapiti and Siberian roe deer have different foraging strategies in terms of time, space, and behavior. Temporally, they both preferred to forage for the saplings of the Japanese yew during the winter season, the degree of overlap in foraging rhythms was medium (Dhat1 = 0.67), and the diurnal foraging activity index (DRAI) of the wapiti was larger than that of the Siberian roe deer. Spatially, the suitable foraging habitat of the Siberian roe deer was twice that of the wapiti, and their overlap was low in the location and direction of saplings and the distance of the seed tree. Behaviorally, the foraging intensity of the wapiti was high, and that of Siberian roe deer was low. Foraging reduced the average primary branch height, number of new branches, and length of lateral branches of saplings, and the influence of the wapiti was significantly greater than that of the Siberian roe deer. This study provides a scientific basis for solving the conservation and management problems of the deer animals foraging on Japanese yew and contributes to further understanding of the competition‐coexistence mechanism of sympatric species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zoysia japonica, a low growing grass, is tolerant to grazing and trampling. Kinkazan Island in northern Japan is inhabited by sika deer (Cervus nippon). The deer population increased in the 1970s at a shrine garden in the western part of the island, leading to expansion of Zoysia swards around the shrine garden and their colonization of remote open patches. The expansion around the garden is due to elongation of the rhizome, but expansion to remote places may be due to endozoochory by deer. This appears to be a good example of the “foliage is the fruit” hypothesis (the FF hypothesis) proposed by Janzen (1984; American Naturalist 123:338–353). To demonstrate this, we confirmed the expansion of the Zoysia swards and tested the traits of Zoysia by field surveys and indoor experiments. The Zoysia peduncles stood among the leaves, and sika deer fed on both the seeds and leaves. One deer fecal pellet contained about 20 seeds at its peak in June. In the feeding experiment, the survival rate through digestion was 38%. In the greenhouse experiment, the germination rate was 72%. An outdoor experiment showed that germination rates of the ingested seeds were 5% in a dark habitat and 58% in a bright habitat. Zoysia exhibited many of the traits presented by the FF hypothesis, and sika deer functioned as seed dispersal agents. Therefore, the Zoysia—sika deer relationship seems to support the FF hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Through gesture recognition and detection of sika deer, farmers can observe the gestures of sika deer without physical contact, providing data and technical support for the intelligent and welfare-oriented breeding of sika deer. This study is based on the YOLOv8 network model. By optimizing the convolution module, incorporating the attention mechanism, and enhancing the detection head module, a new method for detecting sika deer poses was developed. The method was assessed using four behavioral datasets, which included standing, lying, eating, and attacking. The pose-recognition accuracy of sika deer significantly improved to an average of 91.6%, laying a foundation for the health assessment and information management of sika deer. As the sika deer breeding industry flourishes on a large scale, accurately assessing the health of these animals is of paramount importance. Implementing posture recognition through target detection serves as a vital method for monitoring the well-being of sika deer. This approach allows for a more nuanced understanding of their physical condition, ensuring the industry can maintain high standards of animal welfare and productivity. In order to achieve remote monitoring of sika deer without interfering with the natural behavior of the animals, and to enhance animal welfare, this paper proposes a sika deer individual posture recognition detection algorithm GFI-YOLOv8 based on YOLOv8. Firstly, this paper proposes to add the iAFF iterative attention feature fusion module to the C2f of the backbone network module, replace the original SPPF module with AIFI module, and use the attention mechanism to adjust the feature channel adaptively. This aims to enhance granularity, improve the model's recognition, and enhance understanding of sika deer behavior in complex scenes. Secondly, a novel convolutional neural network module is introduced to improve the efficiency and accuracy of feature extraction, while preserving the model's depth and diversity. In addition, a new attention mechanism module is proposed to expand the receptive field and simplify the model. Furthermore, a new pyramid network and an optimized detection head module are presented to improve the recognition and interpretation of sika deer postures in intricate environments. The experimental results demonstrate that the model achieves 91.6% accuracy in recognizing the posture of sika deer, with a 6% improvement in accuracy and a 4.6% increase in mAP50 compared to YOLOv8n. Compared to other models in the YOLO series, such as YOLOv5n, YOLOv7-tiny, YOLOv8n, YOLOv8s, YOLOv9, and YOLOv10, this model exhibits higher accuracy, and improved mAP50 and mAP50-95 values. The overall performance is commendable, meeting the requirements for accurate and rapid identification of the posture of sika deer. This model proves beneficial for the precise and real-time monitoring of sika deer posture in complex breeding environments and under all-weather conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cervid populations introduced to favorable habitats in confinement often increase excessively without predators and hunting. Overabundant deer populations impact the ecosystems and may cause damages to agriculture and forestry. Long‐term count data on the changes in a deer population is essential to understand the relationship between the population dynamics and the natural vegetation. The introduced sika deer (Cervus nippon Temminck, 1836) population without predators on Nakanoshima Island, Hokkaido, Japan, showed repeated irruptions and declines with mass mortality and irregular culling between 1980s and 2000s. The overabundant deer significantly altered the natural vegetation, and density‐dependent changes in population parameters such as body size and reproduction were observed. Here, we present the drive count and culling data to examine the population dynamics during 1980–2023. Deer were counted by 20–30 walking drivers and 2–3 observers on boats once per year in February or March. The number of counted deer rapidly increased from the original three introduced around 1960 to >270 deer (the first peak) in two decades and decreased by half due to starvation and the first culling. Thereafter, the number of counted deer continued to increase with a lower growth rate, reached a higher peak (>400, the second peak) than the first irruption in two decades, and decreased again by half due to starvation and the second culling. Although the number of counted deer increased again up to >300 in several years, it decreased and was maintained at around 100 deer with the annual culling program since 2012. The complete data set for this abstract published in the Data Article section of the journal is available in electronic format in MetaCat in JaLTER at http://db.cger.nies.go.jp/JaLTER/metacat/metacat/ERDP-2024-06.1/jalter-en. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The overabundance of sika deer has become a significant threat to plant communities across Japan. As a result of the deer overgrazing, rare plants are undergoing a demographic bottleneck, leading to a loss of genetic diversity. Genetic diversity is crucial for the reproductive success of self‐incompatible plants, and it also provides evolutionary potential, which increases their long‐term population viability. Therefore, it is essential to appropriately manage the remaining genotypes to conserve local genetic resources. In this study, we exemplify this, via a conservation genetic analysis of Parasenecio peltifolius populations impacted by deer. Genetic data revealed that the small populations confined to isolated refugial sites consisted of effectively single genets. Recent reproductive failures in these populations may be attributed to the loss of genotypic diversity. Despite the bottlenecks, the remaining genets exhibited high individual heterozygosity, which is a good indicator that they have not been affected by severe inbreeding. Hybrid simulations suggested that interpopulation outbreeding between the unique genotypes can be a viable option to promote sexual reproduction and re‐establish genetic diversity within the local populations. Establishing artificial progenies in botanical gardens can serve as a vital genetic resource for the long‐term viability of threatened P. peltifolius populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change causes far‐reaching disruption in nature, where tolerance thresholds already have been exceeded for some plants and animals. In the short term, deer may respond to climate through individual physiological and behavioral responses. Over time, individual responses can aggregate to the population level and ultimately lead to evolutionary adaptations. We systematically reviewed the literature (published 2000–2022) to summarize the effect of temperature, rainfall, snow, combined measures (e.g., the North Atlantic Oscillation), and extreme events, on deer species inhabiting boreal and temperate forests in terms of their physiology, spatial use, and population dynamics. We targeted deer species that inhabit relevant biomes in North America, Europe, and Asia: moose, roe deer, wapiti, red deer, sika deer, fallow deer, white‐tailed deer, mule deer, caribou, and reindeer. Our review (218 papers) shows that many deer populations will likely benefit in part from warmer winters, but hotter and drier summers may exceed their physiological tolerances. We found support for deer expressing both morphological, physiological, and behavioral plasticity in response to climate variability. For example, some deer species can limit the effects of harsh weather conditions by modifying habitat use and daily activity patterns, while the physiological responses of female deer can lead to long‐lasting effects on population dynamics. We identified 20 patterns, among which some illustrate antagonistic pathways, suggesting that detrimental effects will cancel out some of the benefits of climate change. Our findings highlight the influence of local variables (e.g., population density and predation) on how deer will respond to climatic conditions. We identified several knowledge gaps, such as studies regarding the potential impact on these animals of extreme weather events, snow type, and wetter autumns. The patterns we have identified in this literature review should help managers understand how populations of deer may be affected by regionally projected futures regarding temperature, rainfall, and snow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To compensate for mineral deficiencies in food sources, numerous ungulate species use various methods, such as salt licking, soil ingestion, and gnawing on antlers or bones. While osteophagia, the act of gnawing on antlers or bones, is well-documented in cervid species, it has only been observed in sika deer (Cervus nippon) on Mageshima Island in southern Japan despite their widespread distribution. This study aimed to provide an initial account of the observations of osteophagia in sika deer from central Japan. One of the 15 camera traps deployed in the Hakone Nature Forest of Tamagawa University for wildlife monitoring serendipitously captured multiple instances of adult female sika deer gnawing on a four-tined antler on July 9th and 16th in 2018. These occurrences coincided with the fawning season of the species during which mineral deficiencies in the diet are prevalent, suggesting that osteophagia serves as a response to nutrient deficiencies in the diet of sika deer in central Japan. Thus, systematic surveys may yield additional evidence of this behavior in sika deer across diverse geographical areas given the absence of studies on osteophagia in sika deer conducted in other regions. Digital video images related to the article are available at http://www.momo-p.com/showdetail-e.php?movieid=momo240508cn01a. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The editorial in "Antennae: The Journal of Nature in Visual Culture" explores the impact of AI on art and creativity. The conversation between Giovanni Aloi and ChatGPT delves into how AI can enhance artistic processes, the ethical implications of AI-generated art, and the potential for AI to instill empathy for the natural world. The dialogue also touches on biases in AI responses, the definition of art, and the intersection of art, culture, and ecology. The journal is praised for its interdisciplinary approach to exploring the representation of nature in visual culture. [Extracted from the article]

Cervus nippon (sika deer) are widely distributed throughout eastern Asia. Deer possess a variety of antibodies against several zoonotic pathogens, indicating that they act as reservoir of zoonoses. In this study, we reported the characterization of cultured cells derived from sika deer and evaluated their susceptibility to arthropod-borne viruses to clarify their usefulness in virological studies. Cells derived from testicular tissue in Dulbecco's modified eagle medium with 16% fetal bovine serum started growing as primary cultured cells. The diploid cells consisted of 68 chromosomes, consistent with those of Japanese sika deer previously reported. The phylogenetic analysis showed the cells formed a robust clade with Japanese population of C. nippon, indicating that the cultured cells established in this study were originated from the Japanese sika deer. The cells immortalized by the simian virus 40 T-antigen were predominantly spindle-shaped cells exhibiting adhesive properties, and cultivated at 37°C and 5% CO2, which are common culture conditions for many mammalian cell lines. Western blotting analysis indicated that the cultured cells were multiple types of cells that coexist, including at least epithelial, fibroblast, and also Leydig cells. We confirmed that the cells have susceptibility to several arboviruses distributed in Japan: Getah virus, Japanese encephalitis virus, Oz virus, and severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus, but not to Tarumiz tick virus. From these results, the cells contribute to clarify the role of sika deer as a reservoir of zoonoses in nature and deer-associated experimental research at the cellular and molecular levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various domestic and wildlife species have been found susceptible to and infected with SARS‐CoV‐2, the causative agent of COVID‐19, around the globe, raising concerns about virus adaptation and transmission to new animal hosts. The virus circulation in the white‐tailed deer population in North America has further called to action for virus surveillance in the wildlife. Here, we report on the first SARS‐CoV‐2 survey of wild animals in Japan, where frequent wildlife invasions of urban areas have occurred due to the limited predation, field abandonment, the increase of human acclimatization. Genetic testing using nasal swabs and serological screening have been conducted for sika deer, brown bears, raccoons, and raccoon dogs captured in Hokkaido prefecture from the end of the Delta variant wave to the spread of the Omicron variant, between March 2022 and February 2023. No viral RNA was detected in raccoons (0/184), sika deer (0/107), and brown bears (0/14) indicating that the virus was unlikely to spread within the population of these animal species. Among 171 raccoons, 20 raccoon dogs, 100 sika deer, and 13 brown bears, one raccoon, one brown bear, and two deer tested positive in the antibodies screening with multispecies SARS‐CoV‐2 N‐protein ELISA. Still, ELISA‐positive samples tested negative in three other serological tests, emphasizing the importance of confirming serological screening results. Our results suggested that SARS‐CoV‐2 was unlikely to spillback from humans to wildlife in Hokkaido during the study period, with the emergence of new variants, continuous surveillance is of utmost importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the limited supply of autologous bone grafts, there is a need to develop more bone matrix materials to repair bone defects. Xenograft bone is expected to be used for clinical treatment due to its exact structural similarity to natural bone and its high biocompatibility. In this study, decellularized antler cancellous bone matrix (DACB) was first prepared, and then the extent of decellularization of DACB was verified by histological staining, which demonstrated that it retained the extracellular matrix (ECM). The bioactivity of DACB was assessed using C3H10T1/2 cells, revealing that DACB enhanced cell proliferation and facilitated cell adhesion and osteogenic differentiation. When evaluated by implanting DACB into nude mice, there were no signs of necrosis or inflammation in the epidermal tissues. The bone repair effect of DACB was verified in vivo using sika deer during the antler growth period as an animal model, and the molecular mechanisms of bone repair were further evaluated by transcriptomic analysis of the regenerated tissues. Our findings suggest that the low immunogenicity of DACB enhances the production of bone extracellular matrix components, leading to effective osseointegration between bone and DACB. This study provides a new reference for solving bone defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop phonosurgery skills, surgical training of the actual larynx is essential. In our institution, the Japanese deer (Cervus Nippon aplodontids) larynx is used in phonosurgery training. This study aimed to examine the similarities and differences between the Japanese deer and human larynx and to demonstrate their utility in vocal surgery practice. A comparative study was conducted using 30 Japanese deer larynges and 51 human donor larynges, evaluating the overall framework, dimensions, and angle of the thyroid cartilage, vocal cord length, and location of the arytenoid cartilage muscular process. The changes and movements of the vocal folds during contraction and relaxation of each internal laryngeal muscle were also visually analyzed. The larynx size of Japanese deer is intermediate between that of human males and females. The adduction and abduction of the vocal folds induced by contraction of the posterior and lateral cricoarytenoid muscles, as well as the extension of the vocal folds induced by contraction of the cricothyroid muscle, behaved in the same manner as in the human larynx. The morphology of the Japanese deer larynx is similar to that of the human larynx, making it suitable for use in dissection and surgical practice. Owing to the recent animal damage problem and the popularity of gibier cuisine, large quantities of Japanese deer larynx are available at low prices. We believe that the Japanese deer larynx is the most appropriate animal for phonosurgery training so far. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structure of cellular prion proteins encoded by the prion protein gene (PRNP) impacts susceptibility to transmissible spongiform encephalopathies, including chronic wasting disease (CWD) in deer. The recent emergence of CWD in Northern European reindeer (Rangifer tarandus), moose (Alces alces alces) and red deer (Cervus elaphus), in parallel with the outbreak in North America, gives reason to investigate PRNP variation in European deer, to implement risk assessments and adjust CWD management for deer populations under threat. We here report PRNP-sequence data from 911 samples of German red, roe (Capreolus capreolus), sika (Cervus nippon) and fallow deer (Dama dama) as well as additional data from 26 Danish red deer close to the German border and four zoo species not native to Germany. No PRNP sequence variation was observed in roe and fallow deer, as previously described for populations across Europe. In contrast, a broad PRNP variation was detected in red deer, with non-synonymous polymorphisms at codons 98, 226 and 247 as well as synonymous mutations at codons 21, 78, 136 and 185. Moreover, a novel 24 bp deletion within the octapeptide repeat was detected. In summary, 14 genotypes were seen in red deer with significant differences in their geographical distribution and frequencies, including geographical clustering of certain genotypes, suggesting "PRNP-linages" in this species. Based on data from North American CWD and the genotyping results of the European CWD cases, we would predict that large proportions of wild cervids in Europe might be susceptible to CWD once introduced to naive populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Populations of large herbivores can be efficiently managed by regulating the number of females, which is directly related to recruitment. This study aims to determine seasonal changes in the attractiveness of salt water to female Sika deer (Cervus nippon) in order to cull females more efficiently. Females drank saltwater well at similar times of the year for saltwater with different installation dates. In particular, the frequency of drinking increased from early April to mid-July. Previous studies have shown that salt water is an effective attractant for capturing females, but the results of this study suggest that females may be captured more effectively in spring and early summer. This is the birthing season for sika deer. Culling females in late pregnancy and lactation may also directly reduce recruitment due to higher mortality of young. Saltwater-induced culling of female sika deer may be an effective method of managing overpopulation of the deer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Sika deer (Cervus nippon) holds significance among cervids, with three genomes recently published. However, these genomes still contain hundreds of gaps and display significant discrepancies in continuity and accuracy. This poses challenges to functional genomics research and the selection of an appropriate reference genome. Thus, obtaining a high-quality reference genome is imperative to delve into functional genomics effectively. Findings Here we report a high-quality consensus genome of male sika deer. All 34 chromosomes are assembled into single-contig pseudomolecules without any gaps, which is the most complete assembly. The genome size is 2.7G with 23,284 protein-coding genes. Comparative genomics analysis found that the genomes of sika deer and red deer are highly conserved, an approximately 2.4G collinear regions with up to 99% sequence similarity. Meanwhile, we observed the fusion of red deer's Chr23 and Chr4 during evolution, forming sika deer's Chr1. Additionally, we identified 607 transcription factors (TFs) that are involved in the regulation of antler development, including RUNX2, SOX6, SOX8, SOX9, PAX8, SIX2, SIX4, SIX6, SPI1, NFAC1, KLHL8, ZN710, JDP2, and TWST2, based on this consensus reference genome. Conclusions Our results indicated that we acquired a high-quality consensus reference genome. That provided valuable resources for understanding functional genomics. In addition, discovered the genetic basis of sika-red hybrid fertility and identified 607 significant TFs that impact antler development.

In order to explore the pathogenicity and drug resistance mechanism of Proteus penneri from Cervus nippon, a pathogenic strain of Proteus penneri was isolated from the lung organs of dead Cervus nippon in Yunnan Wildlife Park. The whole genome of the isolated strain F2d was sequenced by the second generation sequencing technology, and the whole genome sequence of F2d obtained by sequencing was annotated into the databases of virulence factor, drug resistance gene, and metabolic pathway. The results of virulence factor database annotation showed that the strain contained virulence factors of adherence, nutritional/metabolic factor, motility, immune modulation and other types. The annotation results of the comprehensive antibiotic research database showed that strain F2d was resistant to many antibiotics such as β-lactams, aminoglycosides, tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones, and had many genes encoding the mechanism of antibiotic efflux. The annotation results of metabolic pathway database showed that the annotated genes were enriched in 42 pathways, and the number of metabolism related annotated genes was the largest, with a total of 2, 250 genes distributed in 12 pathways. Using whole genome sequencing technology to analyze the metabolic characteristics, pathogenicity and drug resistance of Proteus penneri F2d from deer can provide a theoretical basis for the prevention of Proteus penneri infection and the development of related drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, positive vegetation succession is obvious in Jiangxi Taohongling Sika Deer National Nature Reserve, and a large number of sika deer (Cervus nippon) begin to spread and gather in the periphery of the reserve. To investigate the potential pathogen carrying situation of the sika deer in the reserve is helpful to grasp the health status of its population, so as to formulate precise conservation and management countermeasures. We collected the fresh fecal samples of sika deer from different zones of the reserve (core zone, buffer zone and experimental zone) and analyzed the pathogen carring status using metagenomic sequencing technology. The results showed that the sika deer in Taohongling Reserve carried 63 species of pathogenic microorganisms in 34 genus, including bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, mycoplasmas, chlamydia and spirochetes, totaling 63 species in 34 genus, and most of which were zoonotic pathogens. The five genus with the highest abundance of pathogens were Clostridioides, Listeria, Klebsiella, Shigella, and Salmonella, and the five species with the highest abundance were Clostridioides difficile, Listeria monocytogenes, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella enteritidis, and Shigella flexneri. The number of pathogens carried by sika deer in the core zone was significantly lower than that in the buffer zone and experimental zone. Our results indicated that the sika deer in Taohongling Reserve carry a variety of pathogens, with a certen risk of epidemics occurrence. It is recommended to carry out habitat dwarfing in the core zone, and at the same time, to carry out continuous monitoring and early warning of high-risk pathogens. In addition, conservation management of the proliferating sika deer population should be strengthened. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In Japan, the rapid increase in the number of sika deer (Cervus nippon) has become a social issue and measures for the resource utilization of extensively captured sika deer have not kept pace. In contrast, various body parts of deer have been used in traditional Chinese medicine since ancient times. Objectives: In the present study, the in vitro antioxidant activity of gelatins from sika deer was evaluated in order to increase their usefulness as health promoting resources. Materials and Methods: Three kinds of deer gelatins were prepared through hot water extraction of antlers, skins, or bones obtained from sika deer. The antioxidant activity was evaluated along with commercially available gelatins and collagen peptides from donkey, bovine, pig and fish using three kinds of in vitro antioxidant assays including DPPH free radical scavenging activity (DPPH) assay, Superoxide anion scavenging activity (SOD) assay and Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity (ORAC) assay. Results: All kinds of gelatins from deer exhibited more than 50% inhibition of DPPH free radical and superoxide anion scavenging activities, as well as H-ORAC values exceeding 8,000 µmol TE/L. The gelatins from deer were further separated into high molecular-weight and low molecular-weight fractions by ethanol precipitation method and the low molecular-weight fractions showed stronger antioxidant activity than corresponding high molecular-weight fractions in all measurements. Conclusion: The result of present study provided rudimentary evidence for the antioxidant activity of gelatins from sika deer, which need further research for the use as health promoting resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder globally. Recognizing the potential of velvet antler in the nervous system, as shown in numerous studies, this research was aimed at evaluating the neuroprotective effects of Sika Deer velvet antler peptide (VAP), along with the underlying mechanisms in neurotoxin-induced PD models. Initially, a peptidomic analysis of the VAP, which comprised 189 varieties of peptides, was conducted using LC-MS. Nine sequences were identified as significant using Proteome Discoverer 2.5 software. In a cellular model of PD, where PC12 cells are treated with the neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+), the administration of the VAP reduced the cell damage and apoptosis induced by MPP+. This protective effect was associated with a decrease in oxidative stress. This protective mechanism was found to be mediated through the activation of the SIRT1-dependent Akt/Nrf2/HO-1-signaling pathway. In animal models, specifically in mice with 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced PD, the administration of the VAP effectively reduced the dopaminergic neuron damage and reversed the neurobehavioral deficits. They also diminished microglia activation and apoptosis, all without any noticeable adverse effects. Additionally, the VAP was observed to beneficially alter the gut microbiota, as marked by an increase in the abundances of Prevotellaceae, Helicobacteraceae, and Prevotella. These findings suggest that VAP exerts its neuroprotective effect against neurodegeneration by inhibiting oxidative stress and modulating gut microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human–wildlife conflict has become a significant challenge for conservationists, particularly in areas where endangered species, such as large carnivores, are recovering. If we fail to keep a balance between the interests of humans and wildlife, the human–wildlife conflict can have adverse outcomes. However, the drivers of human–wildlife conflict, and how to mitigate conflict, are often poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to explore the possible causes for and potential mitigating approaches to human–tiger conflict risks through spatiotemporal niche partitioning. Based on data from the reports of Amur tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) preying on cattle and camera trap detection data from 2014 to 2019 in Hunchun, Northeast China, we predicted Amur tiger occurrence and created risk maps of human–tiger potential encounters. We found that Amur tiger occurrence was positively driven by prey distribution and negatively by the distribution of pastures used for domestic cattle grazing. Livestock was increasingly predated in areas with limited preferred prey, that is, wild pig (Sus scrofa) and sika (Cervus nippon), and in closer proximity to cattle‐grazing land. On the basis of our models, we divided areas utilized by human and Amur tigers into low‐, medium‐, and high‐risk areas across multiple spatiotemporal scales. We suppose that multiple spatiotemporal scale niche partitioning management might effectively reduce the risk of human–tiger encounters, prompt harmonized coexistence between humans and tigers, and provide new solutions to other areas experiencing human–wildlife conflicts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sika deer (Cervus nippon) holds significance among cervids, with three genomes recently published. However, these genomes still contain hundreds of gaps and display significant discrepancies in continuity and accuracy. This poses challenges to functional genomics research and the selection of an appropriate reference genome. Thus, obtaining a high-quality reference genome is imperative to delve into functional genomics effectively. Findings: Here we report a high-quality consensus genome of male sika deer. All 34 chromosomes are assembled into single-contig pseudomolecules without any gaps, which is the most complete assembly. The genome size is 2.7G with 23,284 protein-coding genes. Comparative genomics analysis found that the genomes of sika deer and red deer are highly conserved, an approximately 2.4G collinear regions with up to 99% sequence similarity. Meanwhile, we observed the fusion of red deer's Chr23 and Chr4 during evolution, forming sika deer's Chr1. Additionally, we identified 607 transcription factors (TFs) that are involved in the regulation of antler development, including RUNX2, SOX6, SOX8, SOX9, PAX8, SIX2, SIX4, SIX6, SPI1, NFAC1, KLHL8, ZN710, JDP2, and TWST2, based on this consensus reference genome. Conclusions: Our results indicated that we acquired a high-quality consensus reference genome. That provided valuable resources for understanding functional genomics. In addition, discovered the genetic basis of sika-red hybrid fertility and identified 607 significant TFs that impact antler development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the adaptation of captive sika deer in the wild, infrared camera technology was used to investigate the captive wild sika deer in Jiyuan City, Henan Province from May of 2020 to July of 2021. Twenty infrared cameras were placed in the form of kilometer grid, and a total of 3 334 effective camera days and 9 669 independent photos were obtained. The male-female ratio of adult sika deer was 1. 45. A total of 11 cluster patterns were recorded, in which 36. 63% were single females and 37. 40% were single males. The proportion of polygyny cluster reached 9. 06%. The second was single young deer, accounting for 4. 92%. In the case of carrying juveniles, 371 independent valid photos were taken, mainly by single or multiple females, while only 69 photos were taken in the other two cases. Young carrying by females mainly occurred in summer, while young carrying by males mainly occurred in winter. The diurnal activity rhythm of sika deer was bimodal, 06:00-08:00 and 16:00-18:00 respectively. In winter, the dual activity period of sika deer was from 08:00 to 16:00, and the peak value occurred from 11:00 to 13:00. The results showed that the overlap coefficient in spring-summer was the largest (Δ = 0. 935 0, P< 0. 001), followed by spring-autumn (Δ = 0. 913 4, P<0. 01) and winter-spring (Δ = 0. 878 5, P<0. 01) and summer-autumn (Δ = 0. 876 0, P<0. 01), summer-winter had the smallest overlap coefficient (Δ = 0. 821 4, P<0. 01). In this study, the activity rhythm and clustering behavior of wild sika deer were studied based on the investigation records of wild captive conditions without human interference, which provided the technical basis for the next step of wild release of sika deer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurately identifying individual wildlife is critical to effective species management and conservation efforts. However, it becomes particularly challenging when distinctive features, such as spot shape and size, serve as primary discriminators, as in the case of Sika deer. To address this challenge, we employed four different Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) base models (EfficientNetB7, VGG19, ResNet152, Inception_v3) within a Siamese Network Architecture that used triplet loss functions for the identification and re-identification of Sika deer. Subsequently, we then determined the best-performing model based on its ability to capture discriminative features. From this model, we extracted embeddings representing the learned features. We then applied a Support Vector Machine (SVM) to these embeddings to classify individual Sika deer. We analyzed 5169 image datasets consisting of images of seven individual Sika deers captured with three camera traps deployed on farmland in Hokkaido, Japan, for over 60 days. During our analysis, ResNet152 performed exceptionally well, achieving a training accuracy of 0.97, and a validation accuracy of 0.96, with mAP scores for the training and validation datasets of 0.97 and 0.96, respectively. We extracted 128 dimensional embeddings of ResNet152 and performed Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for dimensionality reduction. PCA1 and PCA2, which together accounted for over 80% of the variance collectively, were selected for subsequent SVM analysis. Utilizing the Radial Basis Function (RBF) kernel, which yielded a cross-validation score of 0.96, proved to be most suitable for our research. Hyperparameter optimization using the GridSearchCV library resulted in a gamma value of 10 and C value of 0.001. The OneVsRest SVM classifier achieved an impressive overall accuracy of 0.97 and 0.96, respectively, for the training and validation datasets. This study presents a precise model for identifying individual Sika deer using images and video frames, which can be replicated for other species with unique patterns, thereby assisting conservationists and researchers in effectively monitoring and protecting the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During their blood-feeding process, ticks are known to transmit various viruses to vertebrates, including humans. Recent viral metagenomic analyses using next-generation sequencing (NGS) have revealed that blood-feeding arthropods like ticks harbor a large diversity of viruses. However, many of these viruses have not been isolated or cultured, and their basic characteristics remain unknown. This study aimed to present the identification of a difficult-to- culture virus in ticks using NGS and to understand its epidemic dynamics using molecular biology techniques. During routine tick-borne virus surveillance in Japan, an unknown flaviviral sequence was detected via virome analysis of host-questing ticks. Similar viral sequences have been detected in the sera of sika deer and wild boars in Japan, and this virus was tentatively named the Saruyama virus (SAYAV). Because SAYAV did not propagate in any cultured cells tested, single-round infectious virus particles (SRIP) were generated based on its structural protein gene sequence utilizing a yellow fever virus-based replicon system to understand its nationwide endemic status. Seroepidemiological studies using SRIP as antigens have demonstrated the presence of neutralizing antibodies against SAYAV in sika deer and wild boar captured at several locations in Japan, suggesting that SAYAV is endemic throughout Japan. Phylogenetic analyses have revealed that SAYAV forms a sister clade with the Orthoflavivirus genus, which includes important mosquito-and tick-borne pathogenic viruses. This shows that SAYAV evolved into a lineage independent of the known orthoflaviviruses. This study demonstrates a unique approach for understanding the epidemiology of uncultured viruses by combining viral metagenomics and pseudoinfectious viral particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deer are susceptible to infection with parasitic helminths, including species which are of increasing economic concern to the livestock industry due to anthelmintic drug resistance. This paper systematically collates helminth prevalence data from deer across Europe and explores patterns in relation to host and parasite species, as well as landscape factors. A livestock pasture contact index (LPCI) is developed to predict epidemiological overlap between deer and livestock, and hence to examine deer helminth fauna in the context of their surrounding environment. Fifty-eight studies comprising fallow (Dama dama), red (Cervus elaphus), roe (Capreolus capreolus) and sika (Cervus nippon) deer were identified. Deer populations in "likely" contact with livestock pasture had a higher mean prevalence of the abomasal nematodes Haemonchus contortus, Ostertagia ostertagi, Teladorsagia circumcincta and Trichostrongylus axei (p = 0.01), which are common in livestock and not primarily associated with deer. Roe deer populations had a higher prevalence of T. circumcincta (p = 0.02) and T. axei (p = 0.01) than fallow deer and a higher prevalence of H. contortus than both red (p = 0.01) and fallow deer (p = 0.02). Liver fluke and lungworm species were present sporadically at low prevalence, while the abomasal nematode Ashworthius sidemi occurred locally at high prevalence. Insights from this research suggest that deer helminth fauna is reflective of their surrounding environment, including the livestock species which inhabit areas of shared grazing. This is explored from an epidemiological perspective, and the prospect of helminth transmission between wild and domestic hosts is discussed, including drug-resistant strains, alongside the role of helminths as indicators relevant to the transmission of other pathogens at the wildlife–livestock interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A captive chimpanzee named DD in Xi'an Qinling Wildlife Park, China, was observed sharing food with baboons in a neighboring enclosure. DD actively gathered, carried, and threw food to the baboons, showing signs of planning and empathy. This cross-species food sharing behavior was altruistic, with DD choosing what to give and how much to transfer, leading to conflict cessation among the baboons. The study suggests that DD may have derived pleasure from controlling the behavior of the baboons and providing for them, similar to the enjoyment experienced by people when feeding animals. [Extracted from the article]