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Plant individuals respond to distinct environmental conditions, which can drive morphological variation. Conversely, intraindividual floral variation affects interactions with pollinators and plant fitness. In distyly, population-level variation has been seen as negative since morph reciprocity in stigma and anther heights promotes precise cross-pollination. However, although natural selection occurs at the individual level, we still do not know how sexual structures vary within individuals in the floral morphs of distylous populations. We used typically distylous populations of Neotropical Rubiaceae family as model systems to study intraindividual variation. Based on the morphology of sexual structures, we calculated the coefficients of variation of heights and size (lengths) as a measure of intraindividual variation (IIV). Stigmas of thrum morph (stigma below anthers) had higher IIV in height when compared to their respective anthers and the stigmas and anthers of pin morph (stigma above anthers). On the other hand, the IIV in size was higher in the stigmas of both morphs when compared to anthers. Higher variation/imprecision in anthers and stigmas affect reciprocal herkogamy and hinder precise pollination both at population and individual levels. However, we suggest that higher variations in stigma heights and sizes may be an intraindividual strategy to occupy a greater positional range, which would increase the chances of cross-pollen deposition among its flowers. This would adjust flowers to the different pollinator guilds, which probably exert different selective pressures. Our study offers a new perspective on distylous flowers, suggesting that IIV may increase pollen reception and explain imprecision at the population level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a mathematical study applied to Hepatitis B disease utilizing fractional calculus and numerical methods. We begin by discussing mathematical fundamentals, focusing on fractional calculus concepts and relevant numerical aspects for disease modeling. We then formulate the problem, describing a nonlinear fractional differential system that models hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and its response to drug therapy. A detailed theoretical analysis explores system properties and biological implications. We provide a qualitative analysis of the model, discussing important dynamic behaviors such as stability and parameter sensitivity. Subsequently, numerical analysis is performed to validate the model and estimate unknown parameters from patient data. Our findings include significant insights into biological parameters and their impact on therapeutic response. We conclude that the proposed fractional-order model is effective, offering optimal therapeutic strategies for hepatitis B. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual signals such as colour ornamentation and birdsong evolve independently of each other in some clades, and in others they evolve positively or negatively correlated. We rarely know why correlated evolution does or does not occur. Here, we show positively correlated evolution between plumage colour and song motor performance among canaries, goldfinches and allies, associated with species differences in body size. When controlling for body size, the pattern of correlated evolution between song performance and colour disappeared. Syllable diversity was not as strongly associated with size, and did not evolve in a correlated manner with colour. We argue that correlated evolution between song and colour was mediated by large size limiting song motor performance, likely due to constraints on the speed of moving heavier bills, and by larger species having less saturated plumage colour, possibly due to life-history traits of larger birds (e.g. longevity, stable pairs) contributing to weaker sexual selection. Results are consistent with the hypothesis that correlated evolution between sexual signals is influenced by how, in a clade, selective pressures and constraints affecting each type of signal happen to be co-distributed across species. Such contingency helps explain the diversity in clade-specific patterns of correlated evolution between sexual signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual signals such as colour ornamentation and birdsong evolve independently of each other in some clades, and in others they evolve positively or negatively correlated. We rarely know why correlated evolution does or does not occur. Here, we show positively correlated evolution between plumage colour and song motor performance among canaries, goldfinches and allies, associated with species differences in body size. When controlling for body size, the pattern of correlated evolution between song performance and colour disappeared. Syllable diversity was not as strongly associated with size, and did not evolve in a correlated manner with colour. We argue that correlated evolution between song and colour was mediated by large size limiting song motor performance, likely due to constraints on the speed of moving heavier bills, and by larger species having less saturated plumage colour, possibly due to life-history traits of larger birds (e.g. longevity, stable pairs) contributing to weaker sexual selection. Results are consistent with the hypothesis that correlated evolution between sexual signals is influenced by how, in a clade, selective pressures and constraints affecting each type of signal happen to be co-distributed across species. Such contingency helps explain the diversity in clade-specific patterns of correlated evolution between sexual signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942 holds significant potential as a biofactory for recombinant protein (RP) production due to its capacity to harness light energy and utilize CO2. This study aimed to enhance RP production by integration of native promoters and magnetic field application (MF) in S. elongatus PCC 7942. The psbA2 promoter, which responds to stress conditions, was chosen for the integration of the ZsGreen1 gene. Results indicated successful gene integration, affirming prior studies that showed no growth alterations in transgenic strains. Interestingly, exposure to 30 mT (MF30) demonstrated a increase in ZsGreen1 transcription under the psbA2 promoter, revealing the influence of MF on cyanobacterial photosynthetic machinery. This enhancement is likely attributed to stress-induced shifts in gene expression and enzyme activity. MF30 positively impacted photosystem II (PSII) without disrupting the electron transport chain, aligning with the "quantum–mechanical mechanism" theory. Notably, fluorescence levels and gene expression with application of 30 mT were significantly different from control conditions. This study showcases the efficacy of utilizing native promoters and MF for enhancing RP production in S. elongatus PCC 7942. Native promoters eliminate the need for costly exogenous inducers and potential cell stress. Moreover, the study expands the scope of optimizing RP production in photoautotrophic microorganisms, providing valuable insights for biotechnological applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The innate immune system, a cornerstone for organismal resilience against environmental and microbial insults, is highly conserved across the evolutionary spectrum, underpinning its pivotal role in maintaining homeostasis and ensuring survival. This review explores the evolutionary parallels between mammalian and insect innate immune systems, illuminating how investigations into these disparate immune landscapes have been reciprocally enlightening. We further delve into how advancements in mammalian immunology have enriched our understanding of insect immune responses, highlighting the intertwined evolutionary narratives and the shared molecular lexicon of immunity across these organisms. Therefore, this review posits a holistic understanding of innate immune mechanisms, including immunometabolism, autophagy and cell death. The examination of how emerging insights into mammalian and vertebrate immunity inform our understanding of insect immune responses and their implications for vector-borne disease transmission showcases the imperative for a nuanced comprehension of innate immunity's evolutionary tale. This understanding is quintessential for harnessing innate immune mechanisms' potential in devising innovative disease mitigation strategies and promoting organismal health across the animal kingdom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study on the warm-up effect in Adelaide's warblers, specifically focusing on the metrics of song performance. The study found that singing at high rates during the dawn chorus increased song performance, as evaluated by two metrics based on trade-offs between different song traits. However, the methods used in the study were criticized for producing metrics that were artificially correlated with one of the acoustic traits, instead of assessing overall performance. The article suggests using a double quantile regression (DQR) approach to accurately assess song performance and test for warm-up effects. [Extracted from the article]

In many families, plants undergo floral resupination by twisting through approximately 180° during floral development so that the flower is effectively positioned upside down. In most orchids, resupination results in the median petal (i.e., the labellum) becoming lowermost, which plays a crucial role in pollination by serving as a landing platform or as a trapping device, or both. Incomplete resupination is predicted to lead to reduced pollination, although tests of this assumption are still lacking.We investigated the effect of resupination using Phragmipedium vittatum, a rare lady's slipper orchid whose specialized labellum forms a trapping device. First, we surveyed the natural occurrence of incomplete resupination. Then we manipulated flowers into non‐ (≈0°), half‐ (≈90°), and fully resupinate (≈180°) positions to test the effect of orientation on pollen smear removal and deposition by pollinators (female hoverflies).We found that ca. 10% of flowers in the natural population were not fully resupinate, being either non‐ (upward, 0–60°) or half‐resupinate (sideward, 60–120°). The change in orientation prevented the effectiveness of pollination by hoverflies since no pollen smear removal or deposition were found in flowers from non‐ and half‐resupinate treatments. Although these flowers still attracted hoverflies, they were not trapped effectively.As this orchid is incapable of autonomous self‐pollination, flowers that do not resupinate fail to set fruits. These results highlight the importance of correct floral orientation provided by resupination to ensure pollination in orchids and other resupinate flowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Squalius alburnoides (Steindachner, 1866) is an endemic threatened species from the Iberian Peninsula. Here, we report the first observations of intraspecific cleaning behavior in isolated summer pools in the Guadiana River Basin (Portugal). We found that focal S. alburnoides solicited cleaning by adopting an immobile tail‐stand position known as "posing," which immediately signaled a response to a few conspecifics that approached and inspect them. Our study expands the list of cleanerfish species in freshwaters, giving emphasis to the importance of mutual positive behavior within an endangered species, particularly when facing seasonal disturbance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After mass production and then mass customization, the time is almost ripe for mass personalization. The goal is to offer unique products designed for the needs of each customer. However, production in larger series of products also has its advantages, and the promise of "lot size one" is still far from being the norm in several sectors of the economy. As a result of an action research project in a small household ceramic producer, this paper explores the potential of a hybrid strategy. Augmented digital engineering is adopted to (1) ensure customer participation along the entire product design lifecycle, (2) maintain the benefits of modularization and low cost, (3) minimize the waste of time and materials during product design, and (4) seek a minimum trade‐off between customer desires and engineering strategy. For theory, our work describes Industry 4.0 technology's role in achieving individual customer interaction and value co‐creation in hybrid strategies of mass customization and mass personalization. For practice, we present an example of technological architecture to implement augmented digital engineering in Industry 4.0, accessible to scenarios of hand‐intensive work and creative design processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecosystem engineering consists of a ubiquitous and fundamental class of interactions where some organisms promote state changes in biotic and abiotic materials which indirectly affect others. Since the concept was created as a counterpoint to traditional flux‐based models, pollinators have never been considered to promote ecosystem engineering because they modulate the supply of resources used by seed/fruit consumers. However, dry fruits may persist in the environment for long periods after seed dispersion as empty structures that are an additional alternative for occupancy. These increase the realized niche of some organisms, being a clear example of biogenic habitats. Here, we demonstrate how pollination may boost ecosystem engineering using an illustrative case study based on a specialized interaction between a bee and an orchid with characteristic capsular fruits. We demonstrate that the orchid is fully dependent on the pollinator to set fruits. Post‐dispersal fruits are voluminous and remain attached to the plant for several years. By investigating the occupation patterns of arthropods, we show that post‐dispersal fruits are highly suitable for occupants when compared to pre‐dispersal and dispersing fruits. Only 13.3% of post‐dispersal fruits were never occupied, 33.3% had organisms inside and 53.3% showed signs of previous occupation. We propose that pollinators are allogenic engineers and plants autogenic, since they promote state changes through their actions and their own physical structure, respectively. Thus, pollination is a case of cooperative ecosystem engineering whereby the effects of the interaction between two or more species expand habitat suitability. Since most plants rely on pollination to set fruits, we suggest that pollination‐mediated engineering constitutes a widespread phenomenon. This offers a new perspective about the effects of pollination in nature, highlighting the importance of pollinators and opening new avenues of investigation of ecosystem dynamics and biodiversity maintenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vision is one of the elements involving in maintaining balance.1 In the absence of vision, compensatory mechanisms are needed for the effective maintenance of balance.2 In the comparison of the balance control process between children and adults with visual impairment, vision may not be involved in children due to the insufficient coordination of visual movements.3,4 In adults, it has been suggested that the automatic posture response system is not affected by vision at birth. To clarify these issues, the aim of the present study was to identify differences in postural control between children and adults with visual impairment. What differences in postural control are found between children and adults with visual impairment? Blind individuals participated in the study: eight male and female children with a mean age of 8.8 ± 2 years) and six male and female adults with a mean age of 37.5 ± 6 years. Postural control was assessed using the SMART-D 140® system with two Kistler force platforms (model 9286BA) to determine oscillations in the center of pressure (CoP). The participants were instructed to remain in the standing position with arms alongside the body for 30 seconds under four conditions: eyes open and eyes closed with and without proprioceptive disturbance. Proprioceptive disturbance was achieved using a form rubber mat measuring 5 cm in height placed on the force platform. Table 1 shows the median COP values. The Mann-Whitney test revealed that the main differences regarded COP M/L and COP velocity. Irrespective of the condition, blind adults swayed more than the blind children, with large effect size (r = 0.82). Interestingly, even challenging the sensory system, we did not find any significant difference in the two groups (p > 0.05). Table 1: The median COP values. [Display omitted] In the comparison of postural control between blind children and blind adults, the adults used the hip strategy (M/L COP) for better postural control and swayed more rapidly in the attempt to maintain the center of pressure within the support base.5 The present findings are in agreement with data described by other authors, who reported that the balance control process in children does not involve vision due to insufficiently developed visuomotor coordination.3,4 With proprioceptive interference, postural behavior was the same for all conditions, which has also been described by other authors.6,7 It is probable that proprioception (main source of information for individuals with visual impairment) enables these individuals to perform balance tests more effectively. Proprioceptive disturbance does not seem to interfere with the maintenance of postural control due to the somatosensorial compensation mechanism acquired over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Psyllidae), is the major citrus pest worldwide because it can transmit the bacteria associated with citrus greening disease (huanglongbing, HLB). The most common management strategy of this pest is chemical control, but this often results in pest resistance and threatens the sustainability of the citrus culture. There is therefore need for sustainable control strategies such as biological control. Previous experiments showed that the predatory mite Amblyseius herbicolus Chant (Acari: Phytoseiidae) is able to develop and reproduce on D. citri eggs. Here, we studied the population dynamics of this pest on plants with and without A. herbicolus on isolated orange jasmine plants, Murraya paniculata (L.) Jack (Rutaceae), an important host plant of the pest. Predatory mites were released 1 week before the release of D. citri and were provided with twines with pollen as oviposition sites and food source, respectively, to maintain populations of A. herbicolus in the absence of the pest. Densities of adults and nymphs of D. citri on plants with predators were about 85% lower than on plants without predators, showing that A. herbicolus is a potential biocontrol agent of D. citri. However, the stage structure of the D. citri populations at the end of the experiment did not differ significantly between control plants and plants with predators. This led us to investigate whether the predator attacked other stages besides eggs. Indeed, predators were able to feed and reproduce on first and second instar nymphs of D. citri, but not on instars 3–5. Concluding, the release of A. herbicolus with alternative food and oviposition sites can reduce infestations of D. citri. We suggest that field experiments should be done in areas where HLB occurs to test whether releases of this predator limit the spread of this devastating disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prenatal stress (PNS) and early life adversity have been linked to epigenetic changes in the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems in various species. Previously, we reported that PNS calves had greater serum concentrations of ACTH and cortisol, were more temperamental, and had differential methylation of leukocyte DNA. The purpose of this study was to determine whether prenatal transportation stress differentially affected gene expression in the adrenal gland of calves. Mature Brahman cows inseminated to a single Brahman sire were assigned to either Control (n = 35; not transported) or PNS (n = 37; 2 h of transportation at 60, 80, 100, 120, and 140 ± 5 d of gestation) group. From some of these cows, 8 Control and 8 PNS bull calves were humanely euthanized at 25 ± 2 d of age. Adrenal glands were obtained, separated into the cortical (AC) and medullary (AM) components, placed into cryovials, snap frozen in liquid nitrogen, and stored at -80°C. Frozen samples (200 mg) were submitted to Novogene Corporation for RNA sequencing analysis on an Illumina Novaseq 6000 platform to generate 150 bp paired-end reads. The reference genome was Bos taurus ARS-UCD1.2. The DESeq2 R package was used for differential gene expression analysis (DEG) and DEGs (P ≤ 0.05, log2FC ≥ 1) were evaluated for gene ontology (GO) subclass terms and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichment pathways. For the AC DEG comparison, a total of 899 genes were identified, with 641 upregulated and 258 downregulated in PNS calves. The AC DEGs were in the cellular component, molecular function and biological process GO subclasses related to circadian rhythm, lymphocyte proliferation, cytokine regulation, muscle development, and lipid metabolism. The KEGG enrichment analysis identified nitrogen metabolism, cytokine signaling, and circadian rhythm pathways associated with DEG of the AC. For the AM DEG comparison, a total of 1,245 genes were identified, with 745 upregulated and 500 downregulated in the PNS calves. The AM DEGs were in GO subclasses related to skeletal muscle development, antigen processing, and neural crest development. The KEGG enrichment analysis identified cell adhesion, viral infection, cytokine signaling, and amphetamine pathways associated with DEG of the AM. These early results suggest that prenatal stress differentially affects expression of genes of the adrenal cortex and adrenal medulla, which may affect health and growth of calves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keratosis lichenoides chronica (KLC) or Nekam's disease, is an uncommon dermatosis, assumed for years as a variant of another inflammatory dermatosis (such as cutaneous lupus erythematosus or lichen planus) but currently accepted as a distinctive condition. Although pathophysiologic mechanisms need further research, clinical aspects of KLC are well-characterised, particularly lichenoid hyperkeratotic papules arranged linearly or in a reticulate pattern over the extremities, seborrheic-like dermatitis on the face and oral or genital erosions. Histopathology usually shows lichenoid interface dermatitis with numerous necrotic keratinocytes and parakeratosis. Keratosis lichenoides chronica (KLC) typically has a chronic progressive course with poor response to treatment. In the following case, we present a 56-year-old man with chronic dermatosis whose clinicopathological findings allowed the diagnosis of KLC. The patient was treated with acitretin, topical steroids and topical calcineurin inhibitors with partial improvement of the lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims Trap flowers are fascinating cases of adaptation, often linked to oviposition-site mimicry systems. Some trap flowers do not imprison pollinators for a pre-determined period, but rather force them to move through a specific path, manipulating their movements in a way that culminates in pollen transfer, often as they leave through a secondary opening. Methods We investigated the previously unknown pollination system of the lady's slipper orchid Phragmipedium vittatum and assessed the function of micro-morphological traits of its trap flowers. Key Results Our observations revealed that P. vittatum is pollinated by females of two hoverfly species (Syrphidae). Eggs laid by flies on or near raised black spots on the flowers indicate that the orchid mimics aphids which serve as food for their aphidophagous larvae. Dark, elevated aphid-like spots appear to attract the attention of hoverflies to a slipping zone. This region has downward projecting papillate cells and mucilage secretion that promote slipperiness, causing potential pollinators to fall into the labellum. They then follow a specific upward route towards inner aphid-like spots by holding onto upward oriented hairs that aid their grip. As hoverflies are funnelled by the lateral constriction of the labellum, they pass the stigma, depositing pollen they may be carrying. Later, they squeeze under one of the articulated anthers which places pollen smears onto their upper thorax. Then, they depart through one of the narrow lateral holes by holding onto hairs projecting from the petals. Conclusions This study confirms the system of aphid mimicry in Phragmipedium and highlights the sophisticated micro-morphological traits used by trap flowers in pollinator attraction, trapping, guidance and release, thus promoting precise pollen transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Galls display a multiplicity of traits, including colours, which are driven by pigment accumulation. Their conspicuousness has attracted researchers' attention and several hypotheses have been raised. However, plants themselves vary intra‐specifically, including in their pigment concentrations. As galls are a result of host tissue development, colours may be a by‐product of the host's own traits, being more conspicuous simply because the sites where galls develop already have the predisposition to accumulate more pigment. Here, we call this the host variation hypothesis.We test this hypothesis using the system of galls induced by Palaeomystella oligophaga on Macairea radula host plant. Using spectrophotometry, we calculated the Anthocyanin Reflectance Index (ARI) of gall projections, which are responsible for their characteristic colours. We tested the influence of occupant identity (galling insect or any natural enemy), gall volume, parenchyma thickness, height from the ground, ARI of leaf, ARI of gall surface and ARI of the respective stem.We corroborated the host variation hypothesis since the anthocyanin content in stems and in galls' projections were positively related. Moreover, anthocyanin in galls' projections was positively related to anthocyanin in the gall surface and negatively related to gall volume and parenchyma thickness. This shows that, besides the host specificities, galls' own traits may also be responsible for pigment accumulation, influencing their colours.In this study, using colour as an example, we show that although galls tend to be considered complex expressions of galling insects' stimuli, their traits may be simply influenced by previous and specific attributes of the host organs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual ornamentation is often assumed to be costly, allowing honest signaling of individual quality, and carotenoid-based colors have been proposed to bear significant costs. If carotenoid-based colors are costly to produce, sexually selected signals should use more concentrated carotenoid pigments and have more saturated color than nonsexual signals, where honesty-guaranteeing costs are not required. We tested this prediction comparing carotenoid-based colors across canaries, goldfinches, and allies because many of these species use yellow plumage as sexual ornamentation but also have yellow rumps that appear to be nonsexual flash marks. Only in the breast, but not the rump, was there an asymmetric codistribution of male and female color saturation, with males similarly or more saturated than females, indicating evolution of breast color by sexual selection. Yellow was not consistently more saturated in the breast than in the rump, and the codistribution of rump and breast color saturation indicated that saturated rumps can persist irrespective of breast color. This challenges the assumption that carotenoid-based colors bear significant costs. The use of carotenoid coloration as sexual signals in this clade may instead be due to social costs, cost-free index mechanisms for signaling quality, and/or socially monogamous species evolving low-cost signals to mostly discriminate against the lowest-quality mates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Australian funnel-web spiders are amongst the most dangerous venomous animals. Their venoms induce potentially deadly symptoms, including hyper- and hypotension, tachycardia, bradycardia and pulmonary oedema. Human envenomation is more frequent with the ground-dwelling species, including the infamous Sydney funnel-web spider (Atrax robustus); although, only two tree-dwelling species induce more severe envenomation. To unravel the mechanisms that lead to this stark difference in clinical outcomes, we investigated the venom transcriptome and proteome of arboreal Hadronyche cerberea and H. formidabilis. Overall, Hadronyche venoms comprised 44 toxin superfamilies, with 12 being exclusive to tree-dwellers. Surprisingly, the major venom components were neprilysins and uncharacterized peptides, in addition to the well-known ω- and δ-hexatoxins and double-knot peptides. The insecticidal effects of Hadronyche venom on sheep blowflies were more potent than Atrax venom, and the venom of both tree- and ground-dwelling species potently modulated human voltage-gated sodium channels, particularly NaV1.2. Only the venom of tree-dwellers exhibited potent modulation of voltage-gated calcium channels. H. formidabilis appeared to be under less diversifying selection pressure compared to the newly adapted tree-dweller, H. cerberea. Thus, this study contributes to unravelling the fascinating molecular and pharmacological basis for the severe envenomation caused by the Australian tree-dwelling funnel-web spiders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The porous Ti-25Ta-10Zr-15Nb alloy was subjected to different heat treatments. • The coating protected the alloy from thermal oxidation at 600 and 800 °C. • Vacuum heat treatment reduced the coating's thickness due to atomic diffusion. This study aims to produce a Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO) layer on the Ti-25Ta-10Zr-15Nb alloy (TTZN) and analyze the influence of heat treatment at different temperatures without a controlled atmosphere to promote thermal oxidation, and in a vacuum (10−7 Torr), to prevent oxidation. The results showed that the PEO coating was initially amorphous, and heat treatments promoted the formation of crystalline compounds. Raising the heat treatment temperature led to higher surface roughness in all conditions. The heat treatment under vacuum reduced thickness (9 → 4 μm), while the heat treatment in air promoted a thickness increasing (10 → 174 μm) and decreased the wettability (82 → 25°) of the oxide layer. Due to oxygen diffusion, there was an increase in the hardness of the TTZN alloy at the oxide/metal interface after heat treatment in the air (268 → 504 HV, 268 → 845 HV, and 268 → 1011 HV, at 800, 1000, and 1200 °C). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although ecological restoration has entered the global agenda to reverse different anthropogenic disturbances, we still know little about how this solution interacts with other conservation strategies, to avoid the progressive loss of species and ecosystem services.Here we evaluate one of the pioneering restoration programs in the southern Brazilian Atlantic Forest, where the combination of conservation and restoration efforts has been carried out for 20 years. Specifically, we tested how landscape characteristics, restoration strategies and environmental characteristics affect the results of the restoration of pastures.We established 65 circular plots (total 4.0 ha) along restoration areas (3–10 years) and sampled trees and shrubs composing the canopy (DBH ≥ 5 cm) and understorey (DBH < 5 cm, height > 1.3 m). We analysed the landscape metrics (proportion of old‐growth forests in 200, 500 and 1,000 m buffers around each plot; and area and distance of the nearest‐neighbouring old‐growth forests). We explored the multiple effects of landscape, restoration strategy (reforestation, natural regeneration) and environmental variables (soil, pasture grass types) on the species composition and multiple diversity metrics of restoration areas.The species composition was very similar among restoration ages and restoration strategies. We found positive and strong effects of old‐growth forest (200 m buffer) proportion on the species richness and Shannon diversity (canopy and understorey), above‐ground biomass (canopy) and functional diversity (understorey) of restoration areas. The restoration strategies affected forest structure, and, in general, the reforestation strategy increased above‐ground biomass, Shannon, functional and phylogenetic diversities (in canopy), and percentage of endemic species and biomass (understorey), when compared to natural regeneration.The 20‐year experience in the southern Atlantic Forest showed that programs focused on landscape conservation associated with a mixture of restoration strategies (i.e. natural regeneration in larger areas and active restoration in more disturbed sites), can be an efficient strategy to ensure biodiversity and ecosystem services in tropical landscapes.Synthesis and applications. To manage degraded tropical lands and achieve global targets for biodiversity and ecosystem services, it is necessary to first ensure the conservation of natural remnants and then use multiple restoration strategies in less resilient areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi-agent systems is an evolving discipline that encompasses many different branches of research. The long-standing Agents at Aberdeen ( A 3 ) group undertakes research across several areas of multi-agent systems, focusing in particular on aspects related to resilience, reliability, and coordination. In this article we introduce the group and highlight past research successes in those themes, building a picture of the strengths within the group. We close the paper outlining the future direction of the group and identify key open challenges and our vision towards solving them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several natural enemies are known as predators of the whitefly Bemisia tabaci, which is one of the most invasive pests worldwide and has developed high resistance to pesticides. However, biological control of this pest on tomato is often difficult because the plant’s glandular trichomes release substances that are toxic to arthropods and hinder the foraging of natural enemies. Therefore, adaptation of natural enemies to this crop is one of the selection criteria for potential biocontrol agents. We collected predatory mites from wild and feral tomato plants and found the species Amblyseius herbicolus and A. tamatavensis. Whereas the latter is known to feed on B. tabaci eggs, we investigated the ability of A. herbicolus to develop and reproduce when feeding on this prey stage, and assessed whether both species can feed and develop on B. tabaci crawlers. To verify the adaptation of these predators to tomato, we assessed their ability to disperse on tomato plants and their establishment on clean tomato plants with pollen as an alternative food. Finally, we evaluated whether the predators were effective in controlling B. tabaci on tomato plants with different pollen dosages as alternative food. We show that both predators fed and reproduced on B. tabaci immatures. A. herbicolus established and dispersed better on tomato plants supplemented with cattail pollen than A. tamatavensis and only A. herbicolus was able to control B. tabaci in two population dynamics experiments. Our results suggest that A. herbicolus is better adapted to tomato than A. tamatavensis and may therefore be a promising biocontrol agent on tomato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Increasing PEO treatment time promotes the formation of the rutile phase. • Rutile increases the hardness of PEO coating. • Thicker anode coatings can be produced with a longer duration of the PEO process. • Increasing PEO treatment time promotes the formation of more rough coatings. The objective of this study was to develop an oxide coating on commercially pure titanium using the plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) technique. During the surface treatment process, the time value was varied for 1, 10, 15, 30, 45, and 60 min. The PEO treatment was carried out at a limited current of 2.5 A and a voltage of 300 V. The coatings exhibit the anatase and rutile crystalline structures of TiO 2. The coating produced for longer treatment times has higher concentrations of rutile, resulting in surface hardening. The thickness and the roughness of the coatings increased with the increase in treatment time, but there was a reduction in the size of the pores per unit area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphology, habitat and various selective pressures (e.g. social and sexual selection) can influence the evolution of acoustic signals, but the relative importance of their effects is not well understood. The order Psittaciformes (parrots, sensu lato) is a large clade of very vocal and often gregarious species for which large‐scale comparative studies of vocalizations are lacking. We measured acoustic traits (duration, sound frequency, frequency bandwidth and sound entropy) of the predominant call type for >200 parrot species to test: (1) for associations with body size; (2) the acoustic adaptation hypothesis (AAH) (predicting differences between forest and open‐habitat species); (3) the social complexity hypothesis (predicting more complex calls in gregarious species) and (4) influences of sexual selection (predicting correlated evolution with colour ornamentation). Larger species had on average longer calls, lower sound frequency and wider frequency bandwidth. These associations with body size are all predicted by physical principles of sound production. We found no evidence for the acoustic adaptation and social complexity hypotheses, but perhaps social complexity is associated with vocal traits not studied here, such as call repertoire sizes. More sexually dichromatic species had on average simpler calls (shorter, with lower entropy and narrower frequency bandwidth) indicating an influence of sexual selection, namely an evolutionary negative correlation between colour ornamentation and elaborate acoustic signals, as predicted by the transference hypothesis. Our study is the first large‐scale attempt at understanding acoustic diversity across the Psittaciformes, and indicates that body size and sexual selection influenced the evolution of species differences in vocal signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our main goal in this paper is to understand the fuel market's spatial price competition. While most of the literature uses the density of gas stations and proximity to rivals as proxies for spatial competition, we measured the marginal increase in spatial competition by the entrance of a new rival nearby. The empirical results indicate that a new firm's entrance reduces prices, and the reduction is more significant the closer the new rival is. A new rival less than 100 meters away is related to a reduction of 2.6% on the typical incumbent firm price. When the new rival is located farther than 250 meters, the incumbent response is lower than 1%. For even greater distances, the effects were significant only when incumbents are unbranded. The extent of spatial competition matters for the outcome; while firms that already faced intense spatial competition are not impacted by having an entrant seller nearby, those facing low spatial competition had a significant price reduction. The pattern, entry of rivals closer matters more, remains when investigating the gasoline price, the ethanol price, and the gasoline wholesale‐retail margins in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemosensation is a critical signalling process in animals and especially important in sea cucumbers, a group of ecologically and economically important marine echinoderms (class Holothuroidea), which lack audio and visual organs and rely on chemical sensing for survival, feeding and reproduction. The ionotropic receptors are a recently identified family of chemosensory receptors in insects and other protostomes, related to the ionotropic glutamate receptor family (iGluR), a large family of membrane receptors in metazoan. Here we characterize the echinoderm iGluR subunits and consider their possible role in chemical communication in sea cucumbers. Sequence similarity searches revealed that sea cucumbers have in general a higher number of iGluR subunits when compared to other echinoderms. Phylogenetic analysis and sequence comparisons revealed GluH as a specific iGluR subfamily present in all echinoderms. Homologues of the vertebrate GluA (aka α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid, AMPA), GluK (aka kainate) and GluD (aka delta) were also identified. The GluN (aka N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate, NMDA) as well as the invertebrate deuterostome subfamily GluF (aka phi) are absent in echinoderms. The echinoderm GluH subfamily shares conserved structural protein organization with vertebrate iGluRs and the ligand binding domain (LBD) is the most conserved region; genome analysis indicates evolution via lineage and species‐specific tandem gene duplications. GluH genes (named Grih) are the most highly expressed iGluRs subunit genes in tissues in the sea cucumber Holothuria arguinesis, with Griha1, Griha2 and Griha5 exclusively expressed in tentacles, making them candidates to have a chemosensory role in this species. The multiple GluH subunits may provide alternative receptor assembly combinations, thus expanding the functional possibilities and widening the range of compounds detected during aggregation and spawning in echinoderms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The formation of methemoglobin (MetHb) occurs through the oxidation of iron in hemoglobin, impairing its capacity for oxygen association and deoxygenation. On exposure to oxidizing agents, such as those present in cigarettes, this process may be more frequent, causing an increase in serum MetHb. Objectives: To evaluate and compare methemoglobin, oxygen saturation and hematological parameters between smokers and non-smokers. Materials and methods: Observational case-control study with participants classified as smokers and non-smokers, in equal number and gender. Smokers classified as moderate to very high dependence degree by the Fagerström tolerance questionnaire were included. In all subjects, oxygen saturation was assessed using portable pulse oximetry, methemoglobin levels by spectrophotometric method and hematological parameters by an automated analyzer. Parametric (Student's T-test) and non-parametric (Mann-Whitney U) tests were performed for comparison of mean values between groups. Results: There were no changes in methemoglobin rates and hematological parameters, both in relation to clinical reference values and in the statistical difference between groups. The oxygen saturation values were significantly higher in the smoking group, 96.4% versus 94.8% (p = 0.04). Conclusions: Despite the potential deleterious effects of cigarettes, in this study it was found that smoking was not a determinant of changes in methemoglobin rates and hematological parameters, when compared with non-smokers. Further studies are suggested with a robust sampling population, complementary analysis of hematological and physiological factors and verification of comorbidities, in order to elucidate a greater relationship between the presented parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of follicle development during pregnancy under experimental conditions could be a key factor to understanding maternal ovarian activity. Thus, this study evaluated the effects of maternal protein restriction before and during pregnancy on folliculogenesis. Swiss outbred female mice were allocated to either a control (CC; 20% protein) or treated (TT; 8%protein) group. Pregnant females were killed either on Gestational day (GD) 7.5 or GD17.5 and the ovaries were evaluated using histomorphometric and immunohistochemical methods. TT females showed higher feed and energy intakes, but lower bodyweight gain at GD17.5 (P<0.05). They also had lower number of secondary follicles at GD7.5 and a higher proportion of primordial follicles at GD17.5 (P<0.05). In addition, the areas of the secondary follicles and their granulosa layer were smaller in the TT group on GD7.5, whereas the areas of the oocyte and granulosa layer from atretic follicles were larger (P<0.05). Notwithstanding the slight increase in the insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) receptor expression on GD7.5 in the TT group, there was a marked reduction in IGF1 expression detected in secondary follicles on GD17.5 (P<0.05). Collectively, these results demonstrate that protein restriction during pregnancy negatively affects follicle quality by reducing the size and activation capacity, which is more severe in late pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social insects are notable for having two female castes that exhibit extreme differences in their reproductive capacity. The molecular basis of these differences is largely unknown. Vitellogenin (Vg) is a powerful antioxidant and insulin‐signalling regulator used in oocyte development. Here we investigate how Royal Jelly (the major food of honeybee queens) and queen mandibular pheromone (a major regulator of worker fertility), affect the longevity and reproductive status of honey bee workers, the expression of Vg, its receptor VgR and associated regulatory proteins. We find that Vg is expressed in the ovaries of workers and that workers fed a queen diet of Royal Jelly have increased Vg expression in the ovaries. Surprisingly, we find that expression of Vg is not associated with ovary activation in workers, suggesting that this gene has potentially acquired non‐reproductive functions. Therefore, Vg expression in the ovaries of honeybee workers provides further support for the Ovarian Ground Plan Hypothesis, which argues that genes implicated in the regulation of reproduction have been co‐opted to regulate behavioural differences between queens and workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to estimate prevalence/severity of self-reported trismus, determine association with quality of life (QOL), and examine clinical risk factors in a large population of patients treated for oropharyngeal cancer. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional survivorship survey was conducted among patients who completed definitive treatment for oropharyngeal carcinoma, disease-free ≥ 1-year post-treatment (median survival, 7 years among 892 survivors). Associations between trismus and QOL were also analyzed using MDASI-HN, EQ-5D, and MDADI. Dietary and feeding tube status were also correlated to trismus status. Results: Trismus was self-reported in 31%. Severity of trismus positively correlated (r = 0.29) with higher mean interference scores reflecting a moderate association with quality of life (p < 0.0001). There was a negative correlation for MDADI composite scores (r = − 0.33) indicating increased perceived dysphagia related to trismus severity (p < 0.0001). EQ-5D VAS scores were also negatively correlated with trismus severity (r = − 0.26, p < 0.0001). Larger T-stage (p ≤ 0.001), larger nodal stage (p = 0.03), tumor sub-site (p = 0.05), and concurrent chemoradiation (p = 0.01) associated with increased prevalence of trismus. Diet negatively correlated (r = − 0.27) with trismus severity (p = < 0.0001), and survivors with severe trismus were also more likely to be feeding tube-dependent. Conclusion: Severity of trismus appears to negatively impact quality of life and associate with various adverse functional outcomes in long-term oropharyngeal cancer survivorship. Trismus remains associated with advanced disease stages, tumor sub-site (tonsil), and addition of chemotherapy. Further investigation is merited for the dose-effect relationship to the muscles of mastication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 has already been described, while clinical consequences to the fetus are still under investigation. This article reports a case of systemic fetal inflammatory response and pericardial effusion. As far as is known, this is the first case of fetal/neonatal cardiac complications related to SARS-CoV-2 infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic pain is a serious debilitating condition that affects ;20% of the world’s population. Currently available drugs fail to produce effective pain relief in many patients and have dose-limiting side effects. Several voltage-gated sodium (NaV) and calcium (CaV) channels are implicated in the etiology of chronic pain, particularly NaV1.1, NaV1.3, NaV1.7–NaV1.9, CaV2.2, and CaV3.2. Numerous NaV and CaV modulators have been described, but with few exceptions, they display poor potency and/or selectivity for pain-related channel subtypes. Here, we report the discovery and characterization of 2 novel tarantula-venom peptides (Tap1a and Tap2a) isolated from Theraphosa apophysis venom that modulate the activity of both NaV and CaV3 channels. Tap1a and Tap2a inhibited on-target NaV and CaV3 channels at nanomolar to micromolar concentrations and displayed moderate off-target selectivity for NaV1.6 and weak affinity for NaV1.4 and NaV1.5. The most potent inhibitor, Tap1a, nearly ablated neuronal mechanosensitivity in afferent fibers innervating the colon and the bladder, with in vivo intracolonic administration reversing colonic mechanical hypersensitivity in a mouse model of irritable bowel syndrome. These findings suggest that targeting a specific combination of NaV and CaV3 subtypes provides a novel route for treatment of chronic visceral pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reduction of nitrate to nitrite in bacteria is an essential step in the nitrogen cycle, catalysed by a variety of nitrate reductase (NR) enzymes. The soil dweller, Mycobacterium smegmatis is able to assimilate nitrate and herein we set out to confirm the genetic basis for this by probing NR activity in mutants defective for putative nitrate reductase (NR) encoding genes. In addition to the annotated narB and narGHJI, bioinformatics identified three other putative NR-encoding genes: MSMEG_4206, MSMEG_2237 and MSMEG_6816. To assess the relative contribution of each, the corresponding gene loci were deleted using two-step allelic replacement, individually and in combination. The resulting strains were tested for their ability to assimilate nitrate and reduce nitrate under aerobic and anaerobic conditions, using nitrate assimilation and modified Griess assays. We demonstrated that narB, narGHJI, MSMEG_2237 and MSMEG_6816 were individually dispensable for nitrate assimilation and for nitrate reductase activity under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Only deletion of MSMEG_4206 resulted in significant reduction in nitrate assimilation under aerobic conditions. These data confirm that in M. smegmatis, narB, narGHJI, MSMEG_2237 and MSMEG_6816 are not required for nitrate reduction as MSMEG_4206 serves as the sole assimilatory NR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The noise filter hypothesis predicts that species using higher sound frequencies should be more tolerant of noise pollution, because anthropogenic noise is more intense at low frequencies. Recent work analysed continental‐scale data on anthropogenic noise across the USA and found that passerine species inhabiting more noise‐polluted areas do not have higher peak song frequency but have more complex songs. However, this metric of song complexity is of ambiguous interpretation, because it can indicate either diverse syllables or a larger frequency bandwidth. In the latter case, the finding would support the noise filter hypothesis, because larger frequency bandwidths mean that more sound energy spreads to frequencies that are less masked by anthropogenic noise. We reanalysed how passerine song predicts exposure to noise using a more thorough dataset of acoustic song measurements, and showed that it is large frequency bandwidths, rather than diverse syllables, that predict the exposure of species to noise pollution. Given that larger bandwidths often encompass higher maximum frequencies, which are less masked by anthropogenic noise, our result suggests that tolerance to noise pollution might depend mostly on having the high‐frequency parts of song little masked by noise, thus preventing acoustic communication from going entirely unnoticed at long distances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The small island of Diu is located just off the southern tip of the peninsula of Saurashtra, in Gujarat (India), and it is currently integrated within one of the country's union territories.[1] At present, the island may seem rather peripheral, but Diu has a complex history that is crisscrossed by multiple influences from near and far, making it especially cosmopolitan and, in many ways, central. The colonial rule of the Portuguese, which extended from 1535 to 1961, has greatly impacted Diu and the Diuese and is undoubtedly crucial to defining this territory's unique history from the early modern period up to the present day. [Extracted from the article]

The diversity and the motor performance of birdsongs can both be sexually selected. In wood warblers, most species with high motor performance sing a greater proportion of trills, presumably to advertise performance, and thus have lower syllable diversity. We tested if this trade‐off between motor performance and syllable diversity extends to canaries, goldfinches and allies, a clade with much longer and more varied songs. We assembled a molecular phylogeny and inferred song motor performance based on the speed of frequency modulation either in trills or in within‐song intervals. The two metrics of performance were positively, but only mildly, related across species. While performance evaluated in intervals had high phylogenetic signal, performance evaluated in trills changed independently of phylogeny and was constrained by body size. Species in densely vegetated habitats sang fewer trills, but did not differ in motor performance. Contrary to wood warblers, song motor performance did not predict the proportion of trilled syllables nor within‐song syllable diversity, perhaps because large differences in the song duration of canaries, goldfinches and allies prevent trills from severely compromising syllable diversity. Opposed results in wood warblers and in these finches indicate the existence of clade‐specific trade‐offs in the evolution of birdsong. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental instability (i.e. environments changing often) can select fixed phenotypes because of the lag time of plastically adapting to environmental changes, known as the lag-time constraint. Because behaviour can change rapidly (e.g. switching between foraging strategies), the lag-time constraint is not considered important for behavioural plasticity. Instead, it is often argued that responsive behaviour (i.e. behaviour that changes according to the environment) evolves to cope with unstable environments. But proficiently performing certain behaviours may require time for learning, for practising or, in social animals, for the group to adjust to one’s behaviour. Conversely, not using certain behaviours for a period of time can reduce their level of performance. Here, using individual-based evolutionary simulations, we show that environmental instability selects for fixed behaviour when the ratio between the rates of increase and reduction in behavioural performance is below a certain threshold; only above this threshold does responsive behaviour evolve in unstable environments. Thus, the lag-time constraint can apply to behaviours that attain high performance either slowly or rapidly, depending on the relative rate with which their performance decreases when not used. We discuss these results in the context of the evolution of reduced behavioural plasticity, as seen in fixed personality differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomineralization is the process by which living organisms acquired the capacity to accumulate minerals in tissues. Shells are the biomineralized exoskeleton of marine molluscs produced by the mantle but factors that regulate mantle shell building are still enigmatic. This study sought to identify candidate regulatory factors of molluscan shell mineralization and targeted family B G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) and ligands that include calcium regulatory factors in vertebrates, such as calcitonin (CALC). In molluscs, CALC receptor (CALCR) number was variable and arose through lineage and species-specific duplications. The Mediterranean mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis) mantle transcriptome expresses six CALCR-like and two CALC-precursors encoding four putative mature peptides. Mussel CALCR-like are activated in vitro by vertebrate CALC but only receptor CALCRIIc is activated by the mussel CALCIIa peptide (EC50 = 2.6 ×10−5 M). Ex-vivo incubations of mantle edge tissue and mantle cells with CALCIIa revealed they accumulated significantly more calcium than untreated tissue and cells. Mussel CALCIIa also significantly decreased mantle acid phosphatase activity, which is associated with shell remodelling. Our data indicate the CALC-like system as candidate regulatory factors of shell mineralization. The identification of the CALC system from molluscs to vertebrates suggests it is an ancient and conserved calcium regulatory system of mineralization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sea cucumbers lack vision and rely on chemical sensing to reproduce and survive. However, how they recognize and respond to environmental cues remains unknown. Possible candidates are the odorant receptors (ORs), a diverse family of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) involved in olfaction. The present study aimed at characterizing the chemosensory GPCRs in sea cucumbers. At least 246 distinct GPCRs, of which ca. 20% putative ORs, were found in a transcriptome assembly of putative chemosensory (tentacles, oral cavity, calcareous ring, and papillae/tegument) and reproductive (ovary and testis) tissues from Holothuria arguinensis (57 ORs) and in the Apostichopus japonicus genome (79 ORs). The sea cucumber ORs clustered with those of sea urchin and starfish into four main clades of gene expansions sharing a common ancestor and evolving under purifying selection. However, the sea cucumber ORs repertoire was the smallest among the echinoderms and the olfactory receptor signature motif LxxPxYxxxxxLxxxDxxxxxxxxP was better conserved in cluster OR-l1 which also had more members. ORs were expressed in tentacles, oral cavity, calcareous ring, and papillae/tegument, supporting their potential role in chemosensing. This study is the first comprehensive survey of chemosensory GPCRs in sea cucumbers, and provides the molecular basis to understand how they communicate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rewardless orchid species are pollinated by deception and have reduced reproductive success. Those species that present self‐compatibility followed by alternative mechanisms of autogamy may compensate for such episodic allogamy events. This is the case for rain‐assisted self‐pollination, a rare mechanism in Orchidaceae. In this study, we investigated the reproductive biology of two terrestrial species: Cyrtopodium hatschbachii and C. paludicolum. We studied their reproductive systems, examined pollinators and male and female successes, and ascertained if rain promotes self‐pollination. Both species are allogamous but self‐compatible. However, natural fruit set is low, not exceeding 1.40% during 4 years of observation. This may result from the reduced frequency of pollinator visitation followed by a high pollinator specificity, because each species was pollinated by a single specialist bee. Although spontaneous selfing did not occur, we verified fruits formed by rain action. The evaporation of the water droplet that accumulates on stigma helps the pollinarium to slip back, promoting selfing. This occurred in approximately 10% of C. hatschbachii fruits, but in C. paludicolum it was recorded only once during three observation years. This indicates that the phenomenon happens at random and may vary temporally. Nevertheless, rain may confer additional fruit set, especially under circumstances of pollinator limitation. Overall, we confirmed deception as a strategy for this understudied genus. In addition, we report a further two cases of rain‐assisted self‐pollination for Cyrtopodium, for species from the center of diversity of the genus, indicating that it may be more widespread than previously thought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zygaenoidea is a superfamily of lepidopterans containing many venomous species, including the Limacodidae (nettle caterpillars) and Megalopygidae (asp caterpillars). Venom proteomes have been recently documented for several species from each of these families, but further data are required to understand the evolution of venom in Zygaenoidea. In this study, we examined the 'electric' caterpillar from North-Eastern Australia, a limacodid caterpillar densely covered in venomous spines. We used DNA barcoding to identify this caterpillar as the larva of the moth Comana monomorpha (Turner, 1904). We report the clinical symptoms of C. monomorpha envenomation, which include acute pain, and erythema and oedema lasting for more than a week. Combining transcriptomics of venom spines with proteomics of venom harvested from the spine tips revealed a venom markedly different in composition from previously examined limacodid venoms that are rich in peptides. In contrast, the venom of C. monomorpha is rich in aerolysin-like proteins similar to those found in venoms of asp caterpillars (Megalopygidae). Consistent with this composition, the venom potently permeabilises sensory neurons and human neuroblastoma cells. This study highlights the diversity of venom composition in Limacodidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Approximately 5 million beef heifers enter the U.S. cow herd annually, and their lifetime productivity is largely dependent upon their ability to attain puberty and produce a calf by 24 mo of age. However, a considerable proportion of heifers within existing U.S. production systems fail to achieve these goals, particularly in southern regions where Bos indicusinfluenced cattle predominate. Consequently, managerial approaches are needed that employ nutritional programming of the reproductive neuroendocrine axis, while minimizing feeding costs and optimizing the consistent attainment of puberty by approximately 14 mo of age. Our previous research has clearly demonstrated that increased BW gain between 4 and 8 mo of age facilitates pubertal development by programming hypothalamic centers that regulate gonadotropin releasing-hormone (GnRH) secretion. Among the different metabolic hormones, leptin has a critical role in conveying nutritional information to the hypothalamus and controlling puberty. Two hypothalamic neuronal populations that express the orexigenic peptide neuropeptide Y (NPY) and the anorexigenic peptide alpha melanocyte-stimulating hormone (aMSH; a product of the POMC gene) are key components of afferent pathways that convey inhibitory (NPY) and excitatory (aMSH) inputs to GnRH and kisspeptin neurons. Our studies have demonstrated that short-term increases in dietary energy intake after early weaning at 4 mo of age result in epigenetic, structural, and functional modifications in these hypothalamic pathways to promote high-frequency, episodic release of GnRH and luteinizing hormone. However, integrating the foundational knowledge of metabolic imprinting of the brain for early puberty with issues related to lifetime performance is complex. One approach has been to employ a novel stair-step nutritional regimen involving alternating periods of dietary energy-restriction and re-feeding during juvenile development. This approach is designed to support early onset of puberty by imprinting functional alterations in the hypothalamus during key periods of brain development while optimizing other aspects of growth and performance. Finally, while several key processes of fetal brain development occur during late gestation, neither maternal undernutrition (BCS 3.0-3.5) nor maternal obesity (BCS 7.5-8.0) during the last two trimesters of gestation impacted the organization of hypothalamic neurocircuitries controlling GnRH/LH secretion or age at puberty in the heifer offspring. Collectively, these results indicate that the adult reproductive phenotype in Bos indicus-influenced females is resilient to significant degrees of nutritional stress imposed during prenatal development, particularly if early gestation (first trimester) is avoided. These findings are in contrast with reports in Bos taurus females in which late gestation nutritional extremes result in delayed puberty in heifer offspring, suggesting that potential genotype-specific differences may exist. Research support: USDA-NIFA-AFRI (2018-67015-27595 and 2021-67015-33676). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• CXCL4-moDCs display a pro-inflammatory phenotype when compared to conventional moDCs. • Increased IL6 and TNF production in CXCL4-moDCs relies on enhanced mRNA stability. • In CXCL4-moDCs, IL12 and IL23 are regulated at the transcriptional level. • The mRNA degrading protein TTP is inactive in CXCL4-moDCs. • p38 inhibition restores TTP function and decreases cytokine production in CXCL4-moDCs. The chemokine CXCL4 has been implicated in several immune diseases. Exposure of monocyte-derived dendritic cells (moDCs) to CXCL4 potentiates the production of inflammatory cytokines in the presence of TLR3 or TLR7/8 agonists. Here we investigated the transcriptional and post-transcriptional events underlying the augmented inflammatory responses in CXCL4-moDCs. Our results indicate that CXCL4-moDCs display an increased expression and secretion of IL-12, IL-23, IL-6 and TNF upon TLR3 activation. Analysis of the cytokine transcripts for the presence of AU-rich elements (ARE), motifs necessary for ARE-mediated mRNA decay, revealed that all these cytokine transcripts are, at least in silico , possibly regulated at the level of mRNA stability. In vitro assays confirmed that mRNA stability of IL6 and TNF , but not IL12B and IL23A, is increased in CXCL4-moDCs. We next screened the expression of ARE-binding proteins (ARE-BPs) and found that TLR stimulation of CXCL4-moDCs induced tristetraprolin (TTP or ZFP36). Increased TTP mRNA expression was found to be a consequence of TTP phospho-mediated inactivation, which over time causes the protein to degrade its own mRNA. Concomitantly with TTP inactivation, we observed increased MAPK p38 signalling, upstream of TTP, in stimulated CXCL4-moDCs. P38 inhibition restored TTP activation and subsequently reduced the production of inflammatory cytokines. Finally, TTP knockdown in moDCs resulted in an increased production of IL6 and TNF after TLR stimulation. Overall, our study shows that the pro-inflammatory phenotype of CXCL4-moDCs relies in part on enhanced cytokine mRNA stability dictated by TTP inactivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study was to identify biomarkers associated with major depressive disorder (MDD) and conversion from MDD to bipolar disorder (BD) in an outpatient sample of women. Methods: This was a longitudinal study including women diagnosed with MDD and aged 18 to 60 years. The follow‐up was 3 years. The diagnosis was performed using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview Plus. Blood collection was just performed in the first phase. Serum interleukin‐6, tumor necrosis factor‐α, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, glial cell‐derived neurotrophic factor, and nerve growth factor (NGF) levels were measured using a commercial immunoassay kit. Results: We included 156 women. The conversion rate from MDD to BD was 15.4% (n = 24). NGF serum levels were increased in patients who converted to BD compared to the remitted MDD group and current MDD group (P = 0.013). The Bonferroni post‐hoc test for multiple comparisons revealed significant differences for higher NGF levels in patients who converted to BD compared to patients with current MDD (P = 0.037). Interleukin‐6, tumor necrosis factor‐α, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, and glial cell‐derived neurotrophic factor serum levels did not differ among the groups. Conclusion: Our results suggest that NGF might be a useful biomarker associated with early detection of conversion to BD, helping clinicians in the clinical diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In most Hymenoptera, the caste differentiation is influenced by differential environmental cues (e.g., food), which affect larvae development. However, Melipona stingless bees represent an exception to this rule. Workers and queens can emerge from brood cells of the same size, with the same quantity and quality of food. The different phenotypes of female bees depend on the interaction of genetic and environmental components. This mechanism is driven by the juvenile hormone, a key physiological factor synthetized by the corpora allata glands. In addition to that, epigenetic mechanisms were recently associated with caste development in Melipona scutellaris. In this study, using images captured by confocal microscopy and analyzed by 3D computational reconstruction, we show the similarities and differences in the pattern and volume of heterochromatin in the cell nuclei of corpora allata glands of M. scutellaris. Our results imply that heterochromatin territorial dispersion may act as a major player on the female phenotypic plasticity of M. scutellaris stingless bees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]