36,855 results on '"biology"'
Search Results
2. The Transformative Role of 3D Culture Models in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Research.
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Bittman-Soto, Xavier S., Thomas, Evelyn S., Ganshert, Madeline E., Mendez-Santacruz, Laura L., and Harrell, J. Chuck
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TISSUE analysis , *BREAST tumor treatment , *CLINICAL drug trials , *STRUCTURAL models , *THREE-dimensional imaging , *BREAST tumors , *ANTINEOPLASTIC agents , *MULTIOMICS , *TREATMENT effectiveness , *BIOLOGY , *XENOGRAFTS , *CELL culture , *CELL lines , *PATIENT-centered care , *MEDICAL research , *INDIVIDUALIZED medicine , *TREATMENT effect heterogeneity , *DISEASE progression , *EVALUATION - Abstract
Simple Summary: This review article delves into the expanding role of 3D culture models in advancing breast cancer biology comprehension and enhancing drug response predictions, with an emphasis on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). It highlights the indispensable contribution of advanced technologies like patient-derived organoids and multi-omics analyses in unraveling tumor biology intricacies and drug sensitivity patterns, thereby fostering the creation of personalized therapeutic approaches. Additionally, it underscores the necessity of understanding the clinical translation for optimal model selection in TNBC therapy development, while acknowledging the impact of differences in cell culture models and culture conditions on drug response disparities. Advancements in cell culturing techniques have allowed the development of three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models sourced directly from patients' tissues and tumors, faithfully replicating the native tissue environment. These models provide a more clinically relevant platform for studying disease progression and treatment responses compared to traditional two-dimensional (2D) models. Patient-derived organoids (PDOs) and patient-derived xenograft organoids (PDXOs) emerge as innovative 3D cancer models capable of accurately mimicking the tumor's unique features, enhancing our understanding of tumor complexities, and predicting clinical outcomes. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) poses significant clinical challenges due to its aggressive nature, propensity for early metastasis, and limited treatment options. TNBC PDOs and PDXOs have significantly contributed to the comprehension of TNBC, providing novel insights into its underlying mechanism and identifying potential therapeutic targets. This review explores the transformative role of various 3D cancer models in elucidating TNBC pathogenesis and guiding novel therapeutic strategies. It also provides an overview of diverse 3D cell culture models, derived from cell lines and tumors, highlighting their advantages and culturing challenges. Finally, it delves into live-cell imaging techniques, endpoint assays, and alternative cell culture media and methodologies, such as scaffold-free and scaffold-based systems, essential for advancing 3D cancer model research and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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3. Role of Phosphodiesterases in Biology and Pathology 2.0.
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Giorgi, Mauro, Pellegrini, Manuela, and Massimi, Mara
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BIOLOGY , *PHOSPHODIESTERASES , *PATHOLOGY , *CYCLIC nucleotide phosphodiesterase inhibitors , *CYCLIC nucleotide phosphodiesterases - Abstract
This document is an editorial from the International Journal of Molecular Sciences titled "Role of Phosphodiesterases in Biology and Pathology 2.0." It discusses the role of phosphodiesterases (PDEs) in the hydrolysis of cAMP and cGMP second messengers in cells. PDEs are involved in various physiological and pathological conditions, and their inhibitors have been used in the treatment of impotence and chronic pulmonary diseases. The special issue of the journal includes contributions that provide new insights into the role of PDEs in different conditions such as spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, skeletal muscle function, cardiac contractility, portal hypertension, liver cirrhosis, and cancer. The articles aim to encourage further research on PDE complexes and the development of new inhibitors for specific delivery and reduced side effects. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
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4. TASL mediates keratinocyte differentiation by regulating intracellular calcium levels and lysosomal function.
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Park, Ji Yeong, Kim, Hyeng-Soo, Hyung, Hyejin, Jang, Soyeon, Ko, Jiwon, Lee, Jin Hong, Kim, Si-Yong, Park, Song, Yi, Junkoo, Park, Sijun, Lim, Su-Geun, Kim, Seonggon, Lee, Sanggyu, Kim, Myoung Ok, Jang, Soyoung, and Ryoo, Zae Young
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LYSOSOMES , *INTRACELLULAR calcium , *CELL cycle , *KERATINOCYTES , *BIOLOGY , *CELL lines ,KERATINOCYTE differentiation - Abstract
Maintaining epidermal homeostasis relies on a tightly organized process of proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes. While past studies have primarily focused on calcium regulation in keratinocyte differentiation, recent research has shed light on the crucial role of lysosome dysfunction in this process. TLR adaptor interacting with SLC15A4 on the lysosome (TASL) plays a role in regulating pH within the endo-lysosome. However, the specific role of TASL in keratinocyte differentiation and its potential impact on proliferation remains elusive. In our study, we discovered that TASL deficiency hinders the proliferation and migration of keratinocytes by inducing G1/S cell cycle arrest. Also, TASL deficiency disrupts proper differentiation process in TASL knockout human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT) by affecting lysosomal function. Additionally, our research into calcium-induced differentiation showed that TASL deficiency affects calcium modulation, which is essential for keratinocyte regulation. These findings unveil a novel role of TASL in the proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes, providing new insights into the intricate regulatory mechanisms of keratinocyte biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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5. Dark local knowledge: the yet-to-be scientifically discovered and locally acknowledged aspects of local knowledge systems.
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Sõukand, Renata
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INTELLECT , *ENVIRONMENTAL health , *ECOLOGY , *DEBATE , *SCIENCE , *BIOLOGY - Abstract
This essay brings forward the idea that there is more than meets the eye in local knowledge systems than what science can show us now. To comprehend this, we need to make a conceptual jump and look for the "dark matter" (the notion borrowed from astronomy that refers to a hypothetical form of matter that does not interact with light or electromagnetic fields) that can potentially sustain local knowledge. Considering that it is a complex of knowledge, practices, and beliefs contained in TEK, knowledge in LEK does not correspond to the notion of knowledge in science. Therefore, in order to map LEK–science interactions, we will refer to the concept of peoples' knowledge of LEK as acknowledgement and the scientific recognition and awareness of information, facts, and principles as knowledge. Applying this to a Johari Window, we can observe four categories of LEK in a known–unknown/acknowledged–unacknowledged matrix. We can refer to unknown and unacknowledged as dark local knowledge. Indeed, local knowledge systems contain many aspects that modern science cannot yet explain, as a major part of its components are not even considered in scholarly research. Dark local knowledge can potentially provide us with the invaluable touch of experience of countless generations, opening different ways of seeing reality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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6. Prognostic impact of chronic lymphocytic leukemia comorbidity index in a young population: a real-world evidence study of a national gulf region cohort.
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Alshemmari, Salem H., AlSarraf, Ahmad, Kaempf, Andy, and Danilov, Alexey V.
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CHRONIC lymphocytic leukemia , *CHRONIC leukemia , *LYMPHOCYTIC leukemia , *COMORBIDITY - Abstract
In chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), comorbidities assessed by the CLL comorbidity index (CLL-CI) have been associated with outcomes in Western cohorts. We conducted a retrospective analysis of an unselected Middle Eastern cohort of newly diagnosed CLL patients seen at the Kuwait Cancer Control Center (n = 300). Compared to Western studies, these Middle Eastern patients were diagnosed at a younger age (median of 59) and had a higher comorbidity burden (69% non-low risk CLL-CI). A higher CLL-CI score was independently associated with significantly shorter event-free survival and greater risk of death. Our analysis demonstrates that CLL-CI is a valuable tool for comorbidity assessment and prognostic influence in (relatively young) Middle Eastern CLL patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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7. Insights into the role of adipose-derived stem cells and secretome: potential biology and clinical applications in hypertrophic scarring.
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Wang, Menglin, Zhao, Jianyu, Li, Jiacheng, Meng, Meng, and Zhu, Mengru
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HYPERTROPHIC scars , *STEM cells , *SCARS , *CLINICAL medicine , *BIOLOGY , *STEM cell treatment - Abstract
Scar tissue is the inevitable result of repairing human skin after it has been subjected to external destructive stimuli. It leads to localized damage to the appearance of the skin, accompanied by symptoms such as itching and pain, which reduces the quality of life of the patient and causes serious medical burdens. With the continuous development of economy and society, there is an increasing demand for beauty. People are looking forward to a safer and more effective method to eliminate pathological scarring. In recent years, adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have received increasing attention from researchers. It can effectively improve pathological scarring by mediating inflammation, regulating fibroblast proliferation and activation, and vascular reconstruction. This review focuses on the pathophysiological mechanisms of hypertrophic scarring, summarizing the therapeutic effects of in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies on the therapeutic effects of ADSCs in the field of hypertrophic scarring prevention and treatment, the latest application techniques, such as cell-free therapies utilizing ADSCs, and discussing the advantages and limitations of ADSCs. Through this review, we hope to further understand the characterization of ADSC and clarify the effectiveness of its application in hypertrophic scarring treatment, so as to provide clinical guidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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8. The nuclear export protein exportin‐1 in solid malignant tumours: From biology to clinical trials.
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Lai, Chuanxi, Xu, Lingna, and Dai, Sheng
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NUCLEAR proteins , *CLINICAL trials , *BIOLOGY , *NUCLEOCYTOPLASMIC interactions , *NUCLEAR transport - Abstract
Background: Exportin‐1 (XPO1), a crucial protein regulating nuclear‐cytoplasmic transport, is frequently overexpressed in various cancers, driving tumor progression and drug resistance. This makes XPO1 an attractive therapeutic target. Over the past few decades, the number of available nuclear export‐selective inhibitors has been increasing. Only KPT‐330 (selinexor) has been successfully used for treating haematological malignancies, and KPT‐8602 (eltanexor) has been used for treating haematologic tumours in clinical trials. However, the use of nuclear export‐selective inhibitors for the inhibition of XPO1 expression has yet to be thoroughly investigated in clinical studies and therapeutic outcomes for solid tumours. Methods: We collected numerous literatures to explain the efficacy of XPO1 Inhibitors in preclinical and clinical studies of a wide range of solid tumours. Results: In this review, we focus on the nuclear export function of XPO1 and results from clinical trials of its inhibitors in solid malignant tumours. We summarized the mechanism of action and therapeutic potential of XPO1 inhibitors, as well as adverse effects and response biomarkers. Conclusion: XPO1 inhibition has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy in the fight against cancer, offering a novel approach to targeting tumorigenic processes and overcoming drug resistance. SINE compounds have demonstrated efficacy in a wide range of solid tumours, and ongoing research is focused on optimizing their use, identifying response biomarkers, and developing effective combination therapies. Key Points: Exportin‐1 (XPO1) plays a critical role in mediating nucleocytoplasmic transport and cell cycle.XPO1 dysfunction promotes tumourigenesis and drug resistance within solid tumours.The therapeutic potential and ongoing researches on XPO1 inhibitors in the treatment of solid tumours.Additional researches are essential to address safety concerns and identify biomarkers for predicting patient response to XPO1 inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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9. Neo-Thomism and Evolutionary Biology: Arintero and Donat on Darwin.
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Recio, Gonzalo Luis and Del Carril, Ignacio Enrique
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TWENTIETH century , *THOMISM , *CATHOLICS , *PAPACY , *EVOLUTIONARY theories , *BIOLOGY , *MYSTICISM - Abstract
Pope Leo XIII's publication of Aeterni Patris (1879) was a major factor in the great revival of Thomistic thought in the late 19th and the first half of the 20th centuries. Among the authors that took up the challenge implicit in the Pope's document of bringing Aquinas and his thought into the intellectual debates of the times we find two interesting proposals. The first is that of Juan González Arintero, a Spanish Dominican, and the second one is that of Josef Donat, a Jesuit born and raised in the Austrian Empire. Arintero is mostly known in Catholic circles for his influential works on mysticism, but in fact he devoted much of his early work to the subject of evolution, and how it could interact with the Catholic faith in general, and with Thomism in particular. Donat is the author of a Summa Philosophiae Christianae, a collection that was widely read in Catholic seminaries well into the 20th century. In this paper we will focus on the differing ways in which these authors tackled the problems and questions presented by Darwinian evolutionism to the post-Aeterni Patris Thomism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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10. Group Learning Routines as a Tool to Build Equitable Learning Experiences in a Biology Classroom.
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Chatham, Elizabeth, Otibu, Joy, and Sau, Andrea
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The vision behind the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) is that all students engage in explaining phenomena and designing solutions with three-dimensional learning. Authentic sensemaking involves opportunities for learners to share, analyze, and critique ideas in collaborative groups. However, it can be challenging to structure classroom discourse so that all students actively participate. This article outlines the success of two teachers using Group Learning Routines (GLR), or peer-to-peer discussion protocols, to support diverse learners. The routines are embedded in the New Visions for Public Schools Biology Curriculum which is open source and storyline-based. The unit described here engages students in an exploration of the mismatch between how our bodies and our environments function. Embedded routines structure student talk throughout a learning sequence culminating in class consensus discussion, in which students collaboratively decide on a class-wide explanation of the phenomenon. Resources, such as rubrics, descriptions of the routines, and example student work are provided to support classroom implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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11. Chemistry and Biology of Noncanonical Nucleic Acid Structures: From Physicochemical Properties to Therapeutic Applications.
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Amato, Jussara, Randazzo, Antonio, and Pagano, Bruno
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NUCLEIC acids , *QUADRUPLEX nucleic acids , *HUNTINGTIN protein , *BIOLOGY , *DNA denaturation , *ION channels , *RAMAN scattering , *MOLECULAR structure , *SMALL molecules - Abstract
This document is an editorial from the International Journal of Molecular Sciences titled "Chemistry and Biology of Noncanonical Nucleic Acid Structures: From Physicochemical Properties to Therapeutic Applications." The editorial aims to highlight the chemistry and biology of noncanonical nucleic acid structures, focusing on their structure, stability, and interactions with proteins and ligands. Noncanonical structures, such as triplex, G-quadruplex, and i-motif species, can form in important genomic regions and play key roles in biological processes, including oncogene expression and telomere maintenance. The investigations published in this special issue cover various aspects, including the potential role of noncanonical structures in transcription regulation, the selective targeting of cancer-related G-quadruplex structures, and the development of innovative analytical methods for the detection of viral RNA. The document concludes by emphasizing the potential of noncanonical nucleic acids for therapeutic applications and the need for further research in this field. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
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12. Using Students' Smartphones as Tools to Determine Total Carbohydrates in Beverages.
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Derman, Mustafa
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SMARTPHONES , *CARBOHYDRATES , *MOBILE apps , *BIOLOGY teachers , *BIOLOGY students , *BLACKBERRIES - Abstract
Smartphones are used universally in many areas due to their advanced features. Smartphones are also widely used by teachers and students in education. This research aims to design low-cost and easy experiments for biology lessons using smartphones. Colorimetric measurement was made with a smartphone. Mobile applications were used to read color change values. The amount of sugar in beverages was calculated with the students. They could create standard curves, measure with a smartphone, organize the data, and determine sugar concentration. It was determined that the students had positive thoughts about the activity. Self-confidence results indicated that the activity had a positive effect on students' self-confidence. Although there was a decrease in the mean scores of difficulty, it was revealed that the mean scores were over the "moderate" level. As a result, it can be said that the activity may be easily practiced by teachers and students in biology lessons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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13. An Investigation of the Impact of Online and In-Person Delivery of Undergraduate Biology Instruction.
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Bonney, Kevin M.
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TEACHING methods , *ONLINE education , *UNDERGRADUATES , *BIOLOGY , *STUDENT surveys , *CONCEPT mapping - Abstract
Online learning is a well-established and growing, yet controversial and widely criticized, component of higher education. In this study, in-person and online versions of an undergraduate introductory biology class were compared to determine whether the online version of the course promoted student performance as well as the in-person course. Student survey responses were also analyzed to identify which teaching modality students perceived to be most effective at promoting learning, and to determine which components of the course were perceived by students to be most effective. No statistically significant difference was observed in exam scores or course grades between the two course modalities. Interestingly, some course components, such as completing virtual labs, were perceived to be more effective in the online version of the course, while others, such as participating in class discussions, were ranked as more effective for the in-person course offering; other components were ranked as similarly effective in both versions of the course. Therefore, this study provides evidence that online education can be effective if appropriately designed and implemented, and it provides a framework for strengthening the effectiveness of online education in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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14. Visualizing Genomic Medicine: An Introduction to General Biology.
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Babian, Caryn and Kumar, Sudhir
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GENETIC mutation , *BIOLOGY teachers , *BIOLOGY , *CELL membranes , *CYSTIC fibrosis , *SYNTHETIC biology - Abstract
The emerging field of genomic medicine offers an opportunity for biology and anatomy teachers to bring the topics of DNA, genetics, molecular processes, and evolution together into one experience. Through the genomic medicine paradigm, students see the unbroken connection between small biological topics such as mutations and their potential connection to disease phenotypes. In this paper, we present as a main example cystic fibrosis, which is an often-studied genetic disease in general biology class, for examination through the genomic medicine lens. Concepts such as genes, the plasma membrane, variation, mutations, the nucleus, and chromosomes can be used in a narrative and visual approach to genetics through the genomic medicine standpoint to engage and connect students with next-generation genomics and with the fundamental unit of life—the cell. It is through the genomic medicine lens that the cell's context and relationship to the evolving world takes place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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15. Building conceptual and methodological bridges between SSE's diversity, equity, and inclusion statement and educational actions in evolutionary biology.
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Sbeglia, Gena C and Nehm, Ross H
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DIVERSITY & inclusion policies , *BIOLOGY , *BRIDGES , *BIOLOGISTS - Abstract
The field of evolutionary biology must bridge the gap between its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) commitments and data-driven educational actions in the nation's undergraduate classrooms and degree programs. In this article, we discuss the urgent need for the adoption of equity frameworks and why they are centrally important to data-driven DEI efforts in evolutionary biology. We describe why equity indicators (e.g. measures) must be anchored in and aligned with equity frameworks. We introduce a specific equity framework for learning (the enhanced educational debt framework) and illustrate how it may be leveraged to document, interpret, and improve outcomes in evolutionary biology. We apply the equity framework and associated indicators to >3,500 students' first college-level experience with evolutionary biology at a public, 4-year institution in the Northeastern United States to demonstrate how these conceptual tools and empirical perspectives may be used by faculty, departments, and degree programs to better understand their roles in mitigating or perpetuating inequities. We end by discussing how this framework may be applied to a range of evolution concepts and courses in the educational hierarchy and used to help evolutionary biologists better understand the extent to which a core aspect of SSE's diversity statement is being realized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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16. Cuproptosis: unveiling a new frontier in cancer biology and therapeutics.
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Feng, Ying, Yang, Zhibo, Wang, Jianpeng, and Zhao, Hai
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CELL aggregation , *KREBS cycle , *COPPER , *BIOLOGY , *CELL death , *SMALL molecules , *OXIDATIVE stress - Abstract
Copper plays vital roles in numerous cellular processes and its imbalance can lead to oxidative stress and dysfunction. Recent research has unveiled a unique form of copper-induced cell death, termed cuproptosis, which differs from known cell death mechanisms. This process involves the interaction of copper with lipoylated tricarboxylic acid cycle enzymes, causing protein aggregation and cell death. Recently, a growing number of studies have explored the link between cuproptosis and cancer development. This review comprehensively examines the systemic and cellular metabolism of copper, including tumor-related signaling pathways influenced by copper. It delves into the discovery and mechanisms of cuproptosis and its connection to various cancers. Additionally, the review suggests potential cancer treatments using copper ionophores that induce cuproptosis, in combination with small molecule drugs, for precision therapy in specific cancer types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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17. Cancer biology in diabetes update: Focusing on antidiabetic drugs.
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Kawakita, Emi and Kanasaki, Keizo
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GLYCEMIC control , *HYPOGLYCEMIC agents , *BIOLOGY , *TYPE 2 diabetes , *DIABETES - Abstract
The association of type 2 diabetes with certain cancer risk has been of great interest for years. However, the effect of diabetic medications on cancer development is not fully understood. Prospective clinical trials have not elucidated the long‐term influence of hypoglycemic drugs on cancer incidence and the safety for cancer‐bearing patients with diabetes, whereas numerous preclinical studies have shown that antidiabetic drugs could have an impact on carcinogenesis processes beyond the glycemic control effect. Because there is no evidence of the safety profile of antidiabetic agents on cancer biology, careful consideration would be required when prescribing any medicines to patients with diabetes and existing tumor. In this review, we discuss the potential influence of each diabetes therapy in cancer 'initiation', 'promotion' and 'progression'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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18. Macrophage activation contributes to diabetic retinopathy.
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Zhang, Yi and Zhou, Aiyi
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DIABETIC retinopathy , *MACROPHAGE activation , *MACROPHAGES , *DIABETES complications , *MONOCYTES , *BIOLOGY - Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is recognized as a neurovascular complication of diabetes, and emerging evidence underscores the pivotal role of inflammation in its pathophysiology. Macrophage activation is increasingly acknowledged as a key contributor to the onset and progression of DR. Different populations of macrophages originating from distinct sources contribute to DR-associated inflammation. Retinal macrophages can be broadly categorized into two main groups based on their origin: intrinsic macrophages situated within the retina and vitreoretinal interface and macrophages derived from infiltrating monocytes. The former comprises microglia (MG), perivascular macrophages, and macrophage-like hyalocytes. Retinal MG, as the principal population of tissue-resident population of mononuclear phagocytes, exhibits high heterogeneity and plasticity while serving as a crucial connector between retinal capillaries and synapses. This makes MG actively involved in the pathological processes across various stages of DR. Activated hyalocytes also contribute to the pathological progression of advanced DR. Additionally, recruited monocytes, displaying rapid turnover in circulation, augment the population of retinal macrophages during DR pathogenesis, exerting pathogenic or protective effect based on different subtypes. In this review, we examine novel perspectives on macrophage biology based on recent studies elucidating the diversity of macrophage identity and function, as well as the mechanisms influencing macrophage behavior. These insights may pave the way for innovative therapeutic strategies in the management of DR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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19. Multiple checkpoints ensure ribosomes have the correct end.
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Gordon, Jacob and Stanley, Robin E.
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RIBOSOMAL RNA , *RIBOSOMES , *RIBOSOMAL proteins , *BIOLOGY - Abstract
The 3′ end of the 18S ribosomal RNA is formed by the endoribonuclease Nob1. How cells ensure the accuracy of the 3′ end has remained a mystery. A new study in PLOS Biology revealed that there are multiple checkpoints to ensure that only ribosomes containing the correct 3′ end participate in translation. The 3' end of 18S ribosomal RNA is formed by the endoribonuclease Nob1, but how cells ensure the accuracy of the 3' end has been a mystery. A new study in PLOS Biology has revealed multiple checkpoints that ensure only ribosomes containing the correct 3' end participate in translation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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20. Unravelling immune microenvironment features underlying tumor progression in the single-cell era.
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Du, Qilian, An, Qi, Zhang, Jiajun, Liu, Chao, and Hu, Qinyong
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CANCER invasiveness , *RNA sequencing , *METASTASIS , *TUMOR microenvironment , *BIOLOGY - Abstract
The relationship between the immune cell and tumor occurrence and progression remains unclear. Profiling alterations in the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) at high resolution is crucial to identify factors influencing cancer progression and enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy. However, traditional sequencing methods, including bulk RNA sequencing, exhibit varying degrees of masking the cellular heterogeneity and immunophenotypic changes observed in early and late-stage tumors. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has provided significant and precise TIME landscapes. Consequently, this review has highlighted TIME cellular and molecular changes in tumorigenesis and progression elucidated through recent scRNA-seq studies. Specifically, we have summarized the cellular heterogeneity of TIME at different stages, including early, late, and metastatic stages. Moreover, we have outlined the related variations that may promote tumor occurrence and metastasis in the single-cell era. The widespread applications of scRNA-seq in TIME will comprehensively redefine the understanding of tumor biology and furnish more effective immunotherapy strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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21. Focusing on mitochondria in the brain: from biology to therapeutics.
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Song, Nanshan, Mei, Shuyuan, Wang, Xiangxu, Hu, Gang, and Lu, Ming
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MITOCHONDRIA , *BIOLOGY , *BRAIN physiology , *MOLECULAR pathology , *BRAIN diseases , *NEUROLOGICAL disorders - Abstract
Mitochondria have multiple functions such as supplying energy, regulating the redox status, and producing proteins encoded by an independent genome. They are closely related to the physiology and pathology of many organs and tissues, among which the brain is particularly prominent. The brain demands 20% of the resting metabolic rate and holds highly active mitochondrial activities. Considerable research shows that mitochondria are closely related to brain function, while mitochondrial defects induce or exacerbate pathology in the brain. In this review, we provide comprehensive research advances of mitochondrial biology involved in brain functions, as well as the mitochondria-dependent cellular events in brain physiology and pathology. Furthermore, various perspectives are explored to better identify the mitochondrial roles in neurological diseases and the neurophenotypes of mitochondrial diseases. Finally, mitochondrial therapies are discussed. Mitochondrial-targeting therapeutics are showing great potentials in the treatment of brain diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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22. Symbiosis takes a front and center role in biology.
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McFall-Ngai, Margaret
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SYMBIOSIS , *BIOLOGY , *MICROORGANISMS , *ROOT-tubercles - Abstract
All animals and plants likely require interactions with microbes, often in strong, persistent symbiotic associations. While the recognition of this phenomenon has been slow in coming, it will impact most, if not all, subdisciplines of biology. Research enabled by recent technological advances has revealed that all animals and plants likely require interactions with microbes, often in strong, persistent symbiotic associations. This Perspective article argues that while the recognition of this phenomenon is slow in coming, it will impact most, if not all, subdisciplines of biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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23. KRAS: Biology, Inhibition, and Mechanisms of Inhibitor Resistance.
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Ash, Leonard J., Busia-Bourdain, Ottavia, Okpattah, Daniel, Kamel, Avrosina, Liberchuk, Ariel, and Wolfe, Andrew L.
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RAS oncogenes , *BIOLOGY , *SMALL molecules , *DRUG efficacy , *RESPONSE inhibition - Abstract
KRAS is a small GTPase that is among the most commonly mutated oncogenes in cancer. Here, we discuss KRAS biology, therapeutic avenues to target it, and mechanisms of resistance that tumors employ in response to KRAS inhibition. Several strategies are under investigation for inhibiting oncogenic KRAS, including small molecule compounds targeting specific KRAS mutations, pan-KRAS inhibitors, PROTACs, siRNAs, PNAs, and mutant KRAS-specific immunostimulatory strategies. A central challenge to therapeutic effectiveness is the frequent development of resistance to these treatments. Direct resistance mechanisms can involve KRAS mutations that reduce drug efficacy or copy number alterations that increase the expression of mutant KRAS. Indirect resistance mechanisms arise from mutations that can rescue mutant KRAS-dependent cells either by reactivating the same signaling or via alternative pathways. Further, non-mutational forms of resistance can take the form of epigenetic marks, transcriptional reprogramming, or alterations within the tumor microenvironment. As the possible strategies to inhibit KRAS expand, understanding the nuances of resistance mechanisms is paramount to the development of both enhanced therapeutics and innovative drug combinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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24. The Emergence of the Family Scirtidae (Insecta: Coleoptera) in Lotic Karst Habitats: A Case Study over 15 Years.
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Klarin, Ana, Ivković, Marija, and Mičetić Stanković, Vlatka
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KARST , *INSECTS , *FRESHWATER habitats , *OXYGEN saturation , *SPRING , *INSECT diversity - Abstract
Simple Summary: This study is a case study on the diversity patterns, population aspects, emergence and ecological drivers of the so-far poorly studied water beetle family Scirtidae. Although they can be very abundant in karstic lotic freshwater habitats, there are still insufficient data on their biology and ecology. The family was studied over a period of 15 years in specific lotic habitats of springs and tufa barriers in the karst freshwater ecosystem of Plitvice Lakes NP, Croatia. Scirtidae showed a longitudinal gradient, as the genus Elodes was recorded only in the spring area, while the genus Hydrocyphon was found only in downstream sites with tufa barriers. Their emergence showed a seasonal character, with males dominating earlier in the season and females appearing later. The type of substrate determined their distribution, with a preference for bryophytes. Their abundance and emergence were primarily determined according to the parameters that showed the greatest fluctuations over the 15-year period: water discharge, water temperature and oxygen saturation. Compared to previous results from similar studies on other insect groups, our results clearly show the high potential of the family Scirtidae as indicators of habitat quality. Due to ongoing changes and a decline in biodiversity, science today should rely on long-term species-based ecological studies. We have conducted a long-term ecological dynamics study on the water beetle family Scirtidae, which, although it is very abundant in benthic communities, is still poorly studied. The main objective of this study was to investigate the population aspects (composition, diversity, sex ratio) and ecological aspects (emergence patterns, seasonal dynamics and preferences for environmental factors) of the family Scirtidae over 15 years in Plitvice Lakes NP, Croatia. The study was conducted at three sites and in five different substrate types. A total of three taxa with different distributions were recorded in the study area: Hydrocyphon novaki and H. deflexicollis on the tufa barriers and the Elodes sp. in the spring area. The sex ratio was in favour of males in spring and early summer, while it shifted in favour of females towards the end of autumn. The abundance and emergence of the family were primarily determined by the environmental parameters which showed the greatest fluctuations over a period of 15 years: water temperature, water discharge and oxygen saturation. Our results clearly show that Scirtidae can be used as indicators of stream zonation and habitat quality. Based on the methodology and the results of this study, we conclude that Scirtidae should be used in future monitoring and protection measures in karst freshwater habitats in southeastern Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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25. A Case Study of a Rare Undifferentiated Spindle Cell Sarcoma of the Penis: Establishment and Characterization of Patient-Derived Models.
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Sousa, Ariane Cavalcante dos Santos, Fernandes, Bruno Leonardo Nascimento Correa, da Silva, Jeronimo Paulo Assis, Stevanato Filho, Paulo Roberto, Coimbra, Luiza Bitencourt de Carvalho Terci, de Oliveira Beserra, Adriano, Alvarenga, Ana Luiza, Maida, Giovanna, Guimaraes, Camila Tokumoto, Nakamuta, Ingrid Martinez, Marchi, Fabio Albuquerque, Alves, Camila, Lichtenfels, Martina, de Farias, Caroline Brunetto, Kupper, Bruna Elisa Catin, Costa, Felipe D'Almeida, de Mello, Celso Abdon Lopes, Carraro, Dirce Maria, Torrezan, Giovana Tardin, and Lopes, Ademar
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SARCOMA , *PENIS , *SMOOTH muscle , *BIOLOGY , *GENETIC mutation - Abstract
Rare sarcomas present significant treatment challenges compared to more prevalent soft tissue sarcomas due to limited treatment options and a poor understanding of their biology. This study investigates a unique case of penile sarcoma, providing a comprehensive morphological and molecular analysis. Through the creation of experimental patient-derived models—including patient-derived xenograft (PDX), 3D, and monolayer primary cultures—we successfully replicated crucial molecular traits observed in the patient's tumor, such as smooth muscle actin and CD99 expression, along with specific mutations in genes like TSC2 and FGFR4. These models are helpful in assessing the potential for an in-depth exploration of this tumor's biology. This comprehensive approach holds promise in identifying potential therapeutic avenues for managing this exceedingly rare soft tissue sarcoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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26. Fitness surfaces and local thermal adaptation in Drosophila along a latitudinal gradient.
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Alruiz, José M., Peralta‐Maraver, Ignacio, Cavieres, Grisel, Bozinovic, Francisco, and Rezende, Enrico L.
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BIOLOGICAL fitness , *DROSOPHILA , *LIFE history theory , *SPECIES distribution , *BIOLOGY - Abstract
Local adaptation is commonly cited to explain species distribution, but how fitness varies along continuous geographical gradients is not well understood. Here, we combine thermal biology and life‐history theory to demonstrate that Drosophila populations along a 2500 km latitudinal cline are adapted to local conditions. We measured how heat tolerance and viability rate across eight populations varied with temperature in the laboratory and then simulated their expected cumulative Darwinian fitness employing high‐resolution temperature data from their eight collection sites. Simulations indicate a trade‐off between annual survival and cumulative viability, as both mortality and the recruitment of new flies are predicted to increase in warmer regions. Importantly, populations are locally adapted and exhibit the optimal combination of both traits to maximize fitness where they live. In conclusion, our method is able to reconstruct fitness surfaces employing empirical life‐history estimates and reconstructs peaks representing locally adapted populations, allowing us to study geographic adaptation in silico. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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27. Clinical Evaluation of Next-generation, Multi-weight Hyaluronic Acid Plus Antioxidant Complex-based Topical Formulations with Targeted Delivery to Enhance Skin Rejuvenation.
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LAIN, EDWARD, MARIWALLA, KAVITA, ZEICHNER, JOSHUA, KIRCHNER, FRANK, RUVOLO, EDUARDO, and DRAELOS, ZOE D.
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HYALURONIC acid , *OINTMENTS , *REJUVENATION , *ANTIOXIDANTS , *BIOLOGY - Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Hyaluronic acid (HA) has become a commonly used ingredient in many topical products due to its strong humectant properties and essential role in skin hydration; however, limitations of delivery of HA to only the surface of skin has hindered leveraging the full capacity of HA biology necessary for skin rejuvenation. Here, we describe the clinical effcacy data of a set of novel next-generation, multi-weight HA plus antioxidant complex-based topical formulations with targeted skin delivery to enhance skin rejuvenation. METHODS: Four multi-weight HA plus antioxidant complex-based formulations: 1) Multi-Weight HA plus Antioxidant Complex Lotion with SPF 30 (Day Lotion); 2) Multi-Weight HA plus Antioxidant Complex Cream (Night Cream); 3) Multi-Weight HA plus Antioxidant Complex Gel Cream; and 4) Multi-Weight HA plus Antioxidant Complex Boost Serum were clinically evaluated for key attributes including moisturization via corneometer, with clinical grading of: dryness, roughness, fine lines and wrinkles, and following daily use of the individual products for up to eight weeks. RESULTS: Daily use of the multi-weight HA plus antioxidant complex-based formulations demonstrated significant improvements in all parameters evaluated compared to baselines, with changes in moisturization observed within 30 minutes of application, and changes in clinical grading parameters of dryness, roughness, fine lines and wrinkles observed as early as two weeks. CONCLUSION: These data demonstrate the clinical benefits of daily use of multi-weight HA plus antioxidant complex-based moisturizers for overall improvement in skin health and appearance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
28. The PD-1/PD-L1 Axis in the Biology of MASLD.
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Pipitone, Rosaria Maria, Lupo, Giulia, Zito, Rossella, Javed, Ayesha, Petta, Salvatore, Pennisi, Grazia, and Grimaudo, Stefania
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PROGRAMMED death-ligand 1 , *T cells , *T-cell exhaustion , *HOMEOSTASIS , *BIOLOGY , *FATTY liver , *LIVER cells - Abstract
Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver (MASL), previously named nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL), is a multifactorial disease in which metabolic, genetic, and environmental risk factors play a predominant role. Obesity and type 2 diabetes act as triggers of the inflammatory response, which contributes to the progression of MASL to Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. In the liver, several parenchymal, nonparenchymal, and immune cells maintain immunological homeostasis, and different regulatory pathways balance the activation of the innate and adaptative immune system. PD-1/PD-L1 signaling acts, in the maintenance of the balance between the immune responses and the tissue immune homeostasis, promoting self-tolerance through the modulation of activated T cells. Recently, PD-1 has received much attention for its roles in inducing an exhausted T cells phenotype, promoting the tumor escape from immune responses. Indeed, in MASLD, the excessive fat accumulation dysregulates the immune system, increasing cytotoxic lymphocytes and decreasing their cytolytic activity. In this context, T cells exacerbate liver damage and promote tumor progression. The aim of this review is to illustrate the main pathogenetic mechanisms by which the immune system promotes the progression of MASLD and the transition to HCC, as well as to discuss the possible therapeutic applications of PD-1/PD-L1 target therapy to activate T cells and reinvigorate immune surveillance against cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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29. The undiscovered country: ten grand challenges in rotifer biology.
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Wallace, Robert L., Hochberg, Rick, and Walsh, Elizabeth J.
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BIOLOGY , *BRACHIONUS , *BIOGEOGRAPHY , *STAMP collecting , *POPULATION dynamics , *PHYSIOLOGICAL stress , *LIFE history theory - Abstract
Authors have attributed the statement "All science is either physics or stamp collecting" to the Physicist, Ernest Rutherford. Putting this sarcastic quip aside, we know that scientific disciplines come of age when they can generate testable, repeatable, and falsifiable hypotheses; yet disciplines begin, and continue, by simply collecting observational information. It is clear, even with a casual assessment of all 16 International Rotifer Symposia, as well as the extensive literature published since our first congress, that rotifer research has moved beyond describing species, making lists of their occurrences, and describing changes in their population dynamics. In spite of the excellent progress that has been made in rotiferology we believe more remains to be done. In this review we nominate 10 fields in rotifer research that we believe will advance understanding of rotiferan biology; these include the following topics: (1) neurobiological connectomes, (2) genomic architecture and control systems, (3) physiology, (4) life history, including sexuality, development, and aging, (5) ecological responses to stresses, (6) biogeography and distribution of cryptic species, (7) analysis of rotiferan morphospace, (8) rotifer evolution within Gnathifera including Acanthocephala, (9) educational opportunities for beginning students, and (10) fostering international collaboration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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30. Collective intelligence: A unifying concept for integrating biology across scales and substrates.
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McMillen, Patrick and Levin, Michael
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BIOLOGICAL systems , *BEHAVIORAL sciences , *BIOLOGY , *PROBLEM solving , *REGENERATIVE medicine - Abstract
A defining feature of biology is the use of a multiscale architecture, ranging from molecular networks to cells, tissues, organs, whole bodies, and swarms. Crucially however, biology is not only nested structurally, but also functionally: each level is able to solve problems in distinct problem spaces, such as physiological, morphological, and behavioral state space. Percolating adaptive functionality from one level of competent subunits to a higher functional level of organization requires collective dynamics: multiple components must work together to achieve specific outcomes. Here we overview a number of biological examples at different scales which highlight the ability of cellular material to make decisions that implement cooperation toward specific homeodynamic endpoints, and implement collective intelligence by solving problems at the cell, tissue, and whole-organism levels. We explore the hypothesis that collective intelligence is not only the province of groups of animals, and that an important symmetry exists between the behavioral science of swarms and the competencies of cells and other biological systems at different scales. We then briefly outline the implications of this approach, and the possible impact of tools from the field of diverse intelligence for regenerative medicine and synthetic bioengineering. A Perspective on how the tools of behavioral science and the emerging field of diverse intelligence help to understand decision-making of cellular collectives in evolutionary and biomedical contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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31. Laboratory science: representations of reproductive biology in Carl Djerassi’s An Immaculate Misconception: Sex in an Age of Mechanical Reproduction.
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Kumar, Ajay and Dcruz, Adrene Freeda
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INTRACYTOPLASMIC sperm injection , *REPRODUCTION , *LABORATORIES , *BIOLOGY , *REPRODUCTIVE technology - Abstract
Carl Djerassi’s ‘An Immaculate Misconception: Sex in an Age of Mechanical Reproduction’ belongs to the science-in-theatre genre. The play revolves around the incidents in a reproductive biology laboratory and investigates the ethical implications of intracytoplasmic sperm injection, a pathbreaking scientific innovation in the field of assisted reproductive technology. In selecting key scientific themes as the subject matter of his literary works, Djerassi attempts to disseminate scientific ideas to a non-scientific audience. This is a significant step towards narrowing the gap of mutual incomprehension between scientists and non-scientists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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32. Diversity of Intercellular Communication Modes: A Cancer Biology Perspective.
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Ebrahim, Thanzeela, Ebrahim, Abdul Shukkur, and Kandouz, Mustapha
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TIGHT junctions , *BIOLOGY , *CELL communication , *EXTRACELLULAR vesicles , *CANCER cells , *DISEASE progression - Abstract
From the moment a cell is on the path to malignant transformation, its interaction with other cells from the microenvironment becomes altered. The flow of molecular information is at the heart of the cellular and systemic fate in tumors, and various processes participate in conveying key molecular information from or to certain cancer cells. For instance, the loss of tight junction molecules is part of the signal sent to cancer cells so that they are no longer bound to the primary tumors and are thus free to travel and metastasize. Upon the targeting of a single cell by a therapeutic drug, gap junctions are able to communicate death information to by-standing cells. The discovery of the importance of novel modes of cell–cell communication such as different types of extracellular vesicles or tunneling nanotubes is changing the way scientists look at these processes. However, are they all actively involved in different contexts at the same time or are they recruited to fulfill specific tasks? What does the multiplicity of modes mean for the overall progression of the disease? Here, we extend an open invitation to think about the overall significance of these questions, rather than engage in an elusive attempt at a systematic repertory of the mechanisms at play. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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33. Biology of the non-parasitic phase of the cattle tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus in an area of Amazon influence.
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Sales, Daniela P., Silva-Junior, Marcelo H. S., Tavares, Caio P., Sousa, Isabella C., Sousa, Dauana M., Brito, Danilo R. B., Camargo, André M., Leite, Romário Cerqueira, Faccini, J. L. H., Lopes, Welber D. Z., Labruna, Marcelo B., Luz, Hermes R., and Costa-Junior, Livio M.
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CATTLE tick , *RHIPICEPHALUS , *BIOLOGY , *RAINFALL , *LONGEVITY , *OVIPARITY , *LARVAE , *BIOMES - Abstract
Background: Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus is the most important tick species affecting cattle in the world. Under field conditions, the non-parasitic phase of R. (B.) microplus is unknown in the Amazon biome, including Brazil. The present study aimed to evaluate the non-parasitic phase of R. (B.) microplus in field (grass plots) and laboratory conditions. Methods: The study was conducted from September 2020 to April 2022 in an Amazonian region (Maranhão State, Brazil). We evaluated the biological parameters of R. (B.) microplus under laboratory and field conditions. Engorged females were exposed to experimental conditions every 14 days, totaling 20 months of study. The following biological parameters were observed: pre-oviposition period, egg mass incubation period, and maximum larval survival period. Results: Abiotic data (e.g., temperature and humidity) varied little throughout the year. Precipitation was the factor that varied the most throughout the year (dry ~ 30 mm3 and rain 400 mm3), and the parameters of pre-oviposition and pre-hatching are longer during the rainy season. A possible negative effect of the dry season on the percentage of hatched eggs was observed. Larval longevity in the plots of both control and free females was short (mean ~ 50–60 days), below that recorded for larvae under controlled conditions (mean ~ 95 days). Conclusions: Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus was able to complete its non-parasitic phase by producing host-seeking larvae in the pasture during all months of the study. The results indicate that R. (B.) microplus can complete up to six generations per year in biome Amazon. To our knowledge, this is the highest number of annual generations for R. (B.) microplus in Latin America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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34. Computationally reproducing results from meta-analyses in ecology and evolutionary biology using shared code and data.
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Kambouris, Steven, Wilkinson, David P., Smith, Eden T., and Fidler, Fiona
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INFORMATION sharing , *BIOLOGY , *REPRODUCIBLE research , *PERIODICAL publishing - Abstract
Many journals in ecology and evolutionary biology encourage or require authors to make their data and code available alongside articles. In this study we investigated how often this data and code could be used together, when both were available, to computationally reproduce results published in articles. We surveyed the data and code sharing practices of 177 meta-analyses published in ecology and evolutionary biology journals published between 2015–17: 60% of articles shared data only, 1% shared code only, and 15% shared both data and code. In each of the articles which had shared both (n = 26), we selected a target result and attempted to reproduce it. Using the shared data and code files, we successfully reproduced the targeted results in 27–73% of the 26 articles, depending on the stringency of the criteria applied for a successful reproduction. The results from this sample of meta-analyses in the 2015–17 literature can provide a benchmark for future meta-research studies gauging the computational reproducibility of published research in ecology and evolutionary biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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35. Neuromodulation and the toolkit for behavioural evolution: can ecdysis shed light on an old problem?
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Sullivan, Luis F., Barker, Matthew S., Felix, Princess C., Vuong, Richard Q., and White, Benjamin H.
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ECDYSIS , *ANIMAL behavior , *NEUROMODULATION , *BIOLOGY , *GENETICISTS - Abstract
The geneticist Thomas Dobzhansky famously declared: 'Nothing in biology makes sense except in the light of evolution'. A key evolutionary adaptation of Metazoa is directed movement, which has been elaborated into a spectacularly varied number of behaviours in animal clades. The mechanisms by which animal behaviours have evolved, however, remain unresolved. This is due, in part, to the indirect control of behaviour by the genome, which provides the components for both building and operating the brain circuits that generate behaviour. These brain circuits are adapted to respond flexibly to environmental contingencies and physiological needs and can change as a function of experience. The resulting plasticity of behavioural expression makes it difficult to characterize homologous elements of behaviour and to track their evolution. Here, we evaluate progress in identifying the genetic substrates of behavioural evolution and suggest that examining adaptive changes in neuromodulatory signalling may be a particularly productive focus for future studies. We propose that the behavioural sequences used by ecdysozoans to moult are an attractive model for studying the role of neuromodulation in behavioural evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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36. Degrade to stay healthy—Proteolytic interplay during inflammation.
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Münz, Christian
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INFLAMMATION , *PROTEASOMES , *AUTOPHAGY , *BIOLOGY - Abstract
Proteasomes and autophagy constitute the 2 main proteolytic machineries for cytoplasmic content. A new study in PLOS Biology now demonstrates that autophagy stimulation alters proteasome composition, degrading hyperactive immunoproteasomes and thereby limiting inflammation. Proteasomes and autophagy constitute the two main proteolytic machineries for cytoplasmic content. This Primer explores a new study in PLOS Biology which demonstrates that autophagy stimulation alters proteasome composition, degrading hyperactive immunoproteasomes and thereby limiting inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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37. Selection, sequencing and progression of content in biology in four diverse jurisdictions.
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Dempster, Edith R.
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JURISDICTION , *BIOLOGY , *GENERALIZATION , *SCHOOL choice , *SYNTHETIC biology - Abstract
Selection of content for a school syllabus is important in achieving progress towards inclusive generalisations which characterise powerful knowledge. Biology as a discipline progresses from knowledge of individual facts to inclusive generalisations such as homeostasis, energy transformations, heredity, and evolution. The present study evaluated the selection of content in the official biology syllabus for the seventh and eighth years of schooling in four diverse jurisdictions: Kenya, South Africa, British Columbia (Canada) and Singapore. The purpose was to determine whether and how content selection enabled progression to inclusive generalisations in biology and to compare selection, sequencing and progression among the four jurisdictions. General Topic Trace Mapping was used to compare each syllabus to a generic reference syllabus structured according to inclusive generalisations. Although there was some agreement in the scope of topics selected, jurisdictions varied in the way it was organised. Kenya included more everyday knowledge than other jurisdictions. British Columbia and Singapore selected content according to unifying themes, whereas South Africa and Kenya did not. South Africa selected content that enabled progression towards inclusive generalisations, but did not explicitly identify the generalisations. This study supports the contention that powerful knowledge in biology may be construed differently in diverse jurisdictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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38. The Potential Role of the Extracellular Matrix Glycoprotein Reelin in Glioblastoma Biology.
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Ongemach, Erika, Zerrinius, Daniela, Heimann, Philipp, Wirtz, Christian Rainer, Debatin, Klaus-Michael, Westhoff, Mike-Andrew, and Peraud, Aurelia
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EXTRACELLULAR matrix , *BIOLOGY , *GLIOBLASTOMA multiforme , *BRAIN tumors , *CELL motility - Abstract
Glioblastoma, the most common and lethal primary adult brain tumor, cannot be successfully removed surgically due to its highly invasive nature. Therapeutically, approaches must be aimed at a systemic brain disease and not merely at a tumor located within the brain, unless a successful containment strategy can be found. Reelin, an extracellular matrix glycoprotein, plays an important role in neuronal migration and serves here as a natural stop signal. Interestingly, the expression of reelin is negatively associated with tumor grade and, within glioblastoma, correlates with increased overall survival. To further elucidate a potential biological reason for these findings, we looked at the cellular behavior of glioblastoma cell lines grown on a pure fibronectin matrix or a matrix with reelin inserts. While reelin had no significant effects on cellular metabolism, proliferation, or resistance to chemotherapeutic agents, it did significantly affect the cells' interaction with fibronectin. Both matrix attachment and detachment were modulated by reelin, and thus, the invasion and motility of cells interacting with a reelin-containing matrix were altered. The data presented in this work strongly suggest that reelin might be a potential modulator of underlying molecular mechanisms that contribute to glioblastoma invasion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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39. Reproductive biology of the European anchovy Engraulis encrasicolus (Linnaeus, 1758) in the Turkish Aegean Sea.
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Taylan, Burcu and Bayhan, Bahar
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ENGRAULIS encrasicolus , *FISH spawning , *BIOLOGY , *FERTILITY , *OVUM , *OVARIES - Abstract
The present study investigated the reproductive biology of European anchovies obtained seasonally from fishermen in İzmir Bay (Aegean Sea). The total length range of the investigated individuals was 9.0 – 15.7 cm. Of the 750 samples in which sex was determined, 34% were males, and 66% were females, resulting in a female-to-male ratio of 1.91:1. The first maturation length was determined to be 10.47 cm for females and 9.95 cm for males. Based on the total values of the gonadosomatic index, it was concluded that the reproductive period of the species falls in the summer season. The batch fecundity of the species ranged from 2.123 to 6.951 oocytes, and the fecundity–length relationship was expressed as F = 1134.4TL – 10034 (R2 = 0.84). Histological examination of the female ovaries revealed the presence of oocytes at different stages of development, indicating multiple spawning during the reproductive season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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40. Review of the Genus Sycanus Amyot & Serville, 1843 (Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Harpactorinae), from China Based on DNA Barcoding and Morphological Evidence †.
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Zhao, Ping, Chen, Suyi, Liu, Yingqi, Wang, Jianyun, Chen, Zhuo, Li, Hu, and Cai, Wanzhi
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GENETIC barcoding , *ASSASSIN bugs , *HEMIPTERA , *AGRICULTURAL pests , *AESTHETICS - Abstract
Simple Summary: The reduviid genus Sycanus Amyot & Serville, 1843, possesses higher aesthetic value and plays a crucial role as a natural enemy in the control of agricultural and forestry pests. However, Sycanus from China has not undergone a comprehensive review for over four decades. Based on both molecular data and morphological evidence, we conducted a systematic review of the 14 Chinese Sycanus species, including a description of three new species. Due to the variability of body coloration and morphological similarity among closely related species, unresolved issues and debates still persist in the taxonomic study of the genus Sycanus from China. In this study, we conducted phylogenetic analyses and species delimitation for Sycanus in China based on a COI DNA barcoding dataset comprising 81 samples. The results revealed that all the samples could be classified into 12 species by integrating molecular analyses with morphological comparison. This paper provides a comprehensive systematic review of the Sycanus species found in China, including descriptions of three new species: S. taiwanensis Zhao & Cai sp. nov., S. flavicorius Li & Cai sp. nov., and S. hainanensis Wang & Cai sp. nov. Furthermore, it is proposed that S. croceovittatus Dohrn, 1859, S. leucomesus Walker, 1873, and S. villicus Stål, 1863, are three synonyms of S. bifidus (Fabricius, 1787); S. bicolor Hsiao, 1979, is a synonym of S. versicolor Dohrn, 1859; and S. hsiaoi Maldonado-Capriles, 1990, is a synonym of S. marginellus Putshkov, 1987. Additionally, brief biological information is provided for two species, S. falleni Stål, 1863, and S. croceus Hsiao, 1979. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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41. Giants among Cnidaria: Large Nuclear Genomes and Rearranged Mitochondrial Genomes in Siphonophores.
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Ahuja, Namrata, Cao, Xuwen, Schultz, Darrin T, Picciani, Natasha, Lord, Arianna, Shao, Shengyuan, Jia, Kejue, Burdick, David R, Haddock, Steven H D, Li, Yuanning, and Dunn, Casey W
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GENOME size , *CNIDARIA , *MITOCHONDRIA , *GENOMES , *HYDROZOA , *PHYLOGENY , *BIOLOGY , *HETEROZYGOSITY - Abstract
Siphonophores (Cnidaria: Hydrozoa) are abundant predators found throughout the ocean and are important constituents of the global zooplankton community. They range in length from a few centimeters to tens of meters. They are gelatinous, fragile, and difficult to collect, so many aspects of the biology of these roughly 200 species remain poorly understood. To survey siphonophore genome diversity, we performed Illumina sequencing of 32 species sampled broadly across the phylogeny. Sequencing depth was sufficient to estimate nuclear genome size from k -mer spectra in six specimens, ranging from 0.7 to 2.3 Gb, with heterozygosity estimates between 0.69% and 2.32%. Incremental k -mer counting indicates k -mer peaks can be absent with nearly 20× read coverage, suggesting minimum genome sizes range from 1.4 to 5.6 Gb in the 25 samples without peaks in the k -mer spectra. This work confirms most siphonophore nuclear genomes are large relative to the genomes of other cnidarians, but also identifies several with reduced size that are tractable targets for future siphonophore nuclear genome assembly projects. We also assembled complete mitochondrial genomes for 33 specimens from these new data, indicating a conserved gene order shared among nonsiphonophore hydrozoans, Cystonectae, and some Physonectae, revealing the ancestral mitochondrial gene order of siphonophores. Our results also suggest extensive rearrangement of mitochondrial genomes within other Physonectae and in Calycophorae. Though siphonophores comprise a small fraction of cnidarian species, this survey greatly expands our understanding of cnidarian genome diversity. This study further illustrates both the importance of deep phylogenetic sampling and the utility of k -mer–based genome skimming in understanding the genomic diversity of a clade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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42. What Is life? Rethinking Biology in Light of Fundamental Parameters.
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Fantini, Jacques, Matveeva, Mélanie, Lefebvre, Marine, and Chahinian, Henri
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BIOLOGY , *GEOMAGNETISM , *DNA structure , *ELECTRIC potential , *CONSCIOUSNESS raising , *GENETIC code - Abstract
Defining life is an arduous task that has puzzled philosophers and scientists for centuries. Yet biology suffers from a lack of clear definition, putting biologists in a paradoxical situation where one can describe at the atomic level complex objects that remain globally poorly defined. One could assume that such descriptions make it possible to perfectly characterize living systems. However, many cases of misinterpretation put this assumption into perspective. In this article, we focus on critical parameters such as time, water, entropy, space, quantum properties, and electrostatic potential to redefine the nature of living matter, with special emphasis on biological coding. Where does the DNA double helix come from, why cannot the reproduction of living organisms occur without mutations, what are the limitations of the genetic code, and why do not all proteins have a stable three-dimensional structure? There are so many questions that cannot be resolved without considering the aforementioned parameters. Indeed, (i) time and space constrain many biological mechanisms and impose drastic solutions on living beings (enzymes, transporters); (ii) water controls the fidelity of DNA replication and the structure/disorder balance of proteins; (iii) entropy is the driving force of many enzymatic reactions and molecular interactions; (iv) quantum mechanisms explain why a molecule as simple as hydrocyanic acid (HCN) foreshadows the helical structure of DNA, how DNA is stabilized, why mutations occur, and how the Earth magnetic field can influence the migration of birds; (v) electrostatic potential controls epigenetic mechanisms, lipid raft functions, and virus infections. We consider that raising awareness of these basic parameters is critical for better understanding what life is, and how it handles order and chaos through a combination of genetic and epigenetic mechanisms. Thus, we propose to incorporate these parameters into the definition of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
- Full Text
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43. Small Bowel Dose Constraints in Radiation Therapy—Where Omics-Driven Biomarkers and Bioinformatics Can Take Us in the Future.
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Yariv, Orly, Camphausen, Kevin, and Krauze, Andra V.
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SMALL intestine , *RADIOTHERAPY , *BIOMARKERS , *HUMAN microbiota , *BIOLOGY - Abstract
Radiation-induced gastrointestinal (GI) dose constraints are still a matter of concern with the ongoing evolution of patient outcomes and treatment-related toxicity in the era of image-guided intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR), and novel systemic agents. Small bowel (SB) dose constraints in pelvic radiotherapy (RT) are a critical aspect of treatment planning, and prospective data to support them are scarce. Previous and current guidelines are based on retrospective data and experts' opinions. Patient-related factors, including genetic, biological, and clinical features and systemic management, modulate toxicity. Omic and microbiome alterations between patients receiving RT to the SB may aid in the identification of patients at risk and real-time identification of acute and late toxicity. Actionable biomarkers may represent a pragmatic approach to translating findings into personalized treatment with biologically optimized dose escalation, given the mitigation of the understood risk. Biomarkers grounded in the genome, transcriptome, proteome, and microbiome should undergo analysis in trials that employ, R.T. Bioinformatic templates will be needed to help advance data collection, aggregation, and analysis, and eventually, decision making with respect to dose constraints in the modern RT era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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44. Common Ragweed— Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.: A Review with Special Regards to the Latest Results in Biology and Ecology.
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Knolmajer, Bence, Jócsák, Ildikó, Taller, János, Keszthelyi, Sándor, and Kazinczi, Gabriella
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AMBROSIA artemisiifolia , *GLOBAL warming , *PRODUCTION losses , *LIFE cycles (Biology) , *BIOLOGY , *WEEDS - Abstract
Weeds are responsible for a significant proportion of agricultural production losses. Common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.) has become the dominant weed in much of the northern hemisphere over the last century and is projected to further expand northward with climate warming. Not only does it cause damage to agriculture, but it also poses a significant human health risk. With the increasing number of Ambrosia artemisiifolia, around 44 million more people will suffer from ragweed pollen-induced pollinosis in the future just in Europe. The following review provides an overview of the most important and recent research findings on the spread, morphology, life cycle, importance and damage, allelopathic effects, habitat and environmental requirements of common ragweed. These characteristics of the species may explain its success and, based on this knowledge, allow the development of methods for its control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
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45. The "Bad Father": Paternal Role in Biology of Pregnancy and in Birth Outcome.
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Giannubilo, Stefano Raffaele, Marzioni, Daniela, Tossetta, Giovanni, Montironi, Ramona, Meccariello, Maria Liberata, and Ciavattini, Andrea
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PREGNANCY outcomes , *PREGNANCY , *FETAL growth retardation , *HUMAN reproduction , *PREMATURE labor , *BIOLOGY - Abstract
Simple Summary: Human reproduction, as well as that of all mammals, involves the union of two cells, the male sperm and the female egg, which give rise to a new organism that will grow for about 280 days inside the mother's body. Most research on pregnancy, its complications, and diseases of the unborn child and newborn has focused, appropriately enough, on maternal conditions and the interaction between mother and child, leaving the father with only the role of depositing his genetic material at the moment of conception. This study aims to compile the research that has dealt with the father's role in determining a good or bad course of pregnancy and birth. From this perspective, the father can be a "good father" or a "bad father" not only because of his hereditary genetic heritage, but also because of how he lives, how he feeds, and how he eats; in short, if a man takes care of his health, he is already taking care of his children's health. Pregnancy is generally studied as a biological interaction between a mother and a fetus; however, the father, with his characteristics, lifestyle, genetics, and living environment, is by no means unrelated to the outcome of pregnancy. The half of the fetal genetic heritage of paternal derivation can be decisive in cases of inherited chromosomal disorders, and can be the result of de novo genetic alterations. In addition to the strictly pathological aspects, paternal genetics may transmit thrombophilic traits that affect the implantation and vascular construction of the feto-placental unit, lead to placenta-mediated diseases such as pre-eclampsia and fetal growth retardation, and contribute to the multifactorial genesis of preterm delivery. Biological aspects of immunological tolerance to paternal antigens also appear to be crucial for these pathologies. Finally, this review describes the biological findings by which the environment, exposure to pathogens, lifestyle, and nutritional style of the father affect fetal pathophysiological and epigenetic definition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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46. Reply to Soldo, A.; Lipej, L. Comment on "Balàka et al. Updated Checklist of Chondrichthyan Species in Croatia (Central Mediterranean Sea). Biology 2023, 12 , 952".
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Balàka, Pia F., Ugarković, Pero, Türtscher, Julia, Kriwet, Jürgen, Niedermüller, Simone, Krstinić, Patrik, and Jambura, Patrick L.
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SPECIES , *SEXUAL cycle , *BIOLOGY , *HAMMERHEAD sharks , *CHONDRICHTHYES , *SHARKS , *WHITE shark - Abstract
The article discusses a taxonomic list of chondrichthyan fishes in Croatian waters and addresses concerns raised by other researchers. The authors argue that national checklists are important for biodiversity management and implementing legislation. They also defend their identification of a species, Odontaspis ferox, as opposed to Carcharias taurus, based on various morphological features. The authors acknowledge the ongoing discussion regarding the validity of Scyliorhinus duhamelii and include it in their list with caution. They also defend the inclusion of Squatina aculeata in the list and clarify the status of Sphyrna tudes as unconfirmed. The authors appreciate additional references provided by other researchers. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
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47. Comment on Balàka et al. Updated Checklist of Chondrichthyan Species in Croatia (Central Mediterranean Sea). Biology 2023, 12 , 952.
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Soldo, Alen and Lipej, Lovrenc
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SPECIES , *BIOLOGY - Abstract
The authors of this letter comment on a checklist of chondrichthyan species in Croatia, specifically addressing inaccuracies and issues with the previous checklist. They argue that previous checklists for Croatia have always referred to the whole Adriatic Sea, rather than just Croatian waters. They also dispute the identification of a specific species, Carcharias taurus, based on coloration and other characteristics. The authors suggest that identification based solely on uncertain body photos should be avoided and that jaw and dental characteristics should be used instead. They also question the inclusion of certain species in the checklist, citing lack of solid evidence. The authors conclude by encouraging the avoidance of arbitrary observations and the need for verified evidence in order to avoid confusion in the identification and status of chondrichthyan species. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
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48. Equitable Instructor Assessment Changes Amid COVID-19 Pandemic.
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Lamb, Todd, Driessen, Emily P., Beatty, Abby E., Youngblood, Rachel, Esco, Abby, Cotner, Sehoya, Creech, Catherine, Drake, Abby Grace, Fagbodun, Sheritta, Hobbs, Kristen S., Lane, A. Kelly, Larson, Erin, McCoy, Sophie J., Thompson, Seth, and Ballen, Cissy J.
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COVID-19 pandemic , *VIRTUAL classrooms , *ONLINE education , *LEARNING ability , *BIOLOGY students - Abstract
The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak mandated a rapid transition to online classes with little warning. Previous literature studying the effects of this sudden shift demonstrated enormous impacts on instructors and students. However, the details concerning science instructor assessment choices during this time are less clear. We asked biology instructors to reflect on the changes they made to their assessments of student learning during the emergency transition to remote instruction in spring 2020 and whether the potential changes were motivated by equity concerns. We also asked instructors to describe the assessment changes they intended to keep in future semesters. Through quantitative and qualitative analyses, we found that instructors removed forms of assessment more often than they added them, and the most common changes included how instructors administered exams and engaged students through participation. Instructors reported that equity concerns motivated their decision-making, particularly their concern over students' ability to access learning resources. Instructors indicated they would keep many of the changes they made in response to the shift to online learning. Our research shows that the pandemic dramatically altered how instructors assessed students in biology, but equity-based decisions leading to lasting change may be one positive outcome for future students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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49. Mitochondria at the Nanoscale: Physics Meets Biology—What Does It Mean for Medicine?
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Mourokh, Lev and Friedman, Jonathan
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BIOLOGY , *MITOCHONDRIAL pathology , *HUMAN body , *MITOCHONDRIAL membranes , *MITOCHONDRIA , *AUTISM spectrum disorders - Abstract
Mitochondria are commonly perceived as "cellular power plants". Intriguingly, power conversion is not their only function. In the first part of this paper, we review the role of mitochondria in the evolution of eukaryotic organisms and in the regulation of the human body, specifically focusing on cancer and autism in relation to mitochondrial dysfunction. In the second part, we overview our previous works, revealing the physical principles of operation for proton-pumping complexes in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Our proposed simple models reveal the physical mechanisms of energy exchange. They can be further expanded to answer open questions about mitochondrial functions and the medical treatment of diseases associated with mitochondrial disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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50. Editorial for the Special Issue "Current Research on Cancer Biology and Therapeutics".
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Coveñas, Rafael
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BIOLOGY , *BREAST , *NEUROPEPTIDE Y receptors , *CANCER research , *CANCER cell growth , *SUBSTANCE P receptors , *SMALL interfering RNA - Abstract
This document is an editorial for a special issue of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences focused on current research on cancer biology and therapeutics. The editorial highlights the significance of cancer as a major health problem, with millions of deaths and patients expected in the future. The special issue presents various compounds and strategies that show promise in targeting and treating different types of cancer, including colon cancer, colorectal cancer, papillary thyroid carcinoma, liver cancer, Ewing sarcoma, cholangiocarcinoma, melanoma, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The studies discussed in the special issue explore the potential of these compounds to inhibit tumor growth, promote apoptosis, block cancer cell proliferation and migration, and target specific molecular mechanisms involved in cancer development. The editorial emphasizes the importance of these findings in improving cancer diagnosis and treatment and suggests that further research and development in these areas could lead to more effective therapies and better outcomes for cancer patients. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
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