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This opinion piece, written by ethnobiologists from different parts of the world, emphasizes the importance of ethnobiology research in advancing contemporary biology, natural resource management, biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and, especially, contributing to the ecological transition and more just and inclusive world. To achieve these goals, it is essential to develop research and collaborate with social groups that live in close relationship with nature in research activities, such as Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLC), as well as Afro-descendants and other Marginalized, Minority or Minoritized Communities (AMMC). Ethnobiology can identify and provide locally appropriate solutions to local problems, enabling sustainable resource management at the landscape level. The text explores important aspects that need to be considered to guide the future of ethnobiology in the next 20 years, aiming to integrate and amplify previous discussions held in the discipline and identify points that demand ongoing attention. This paper highlights reflections from diverse researchers, emphasizing how ethnobiology can embrace different perspectives and employ rigorous analysis of complex phenomena toward effective policies and practices. This approach holds the potential to address the challenges the planet is currently facing in the coming decades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondria perform a myriad of essential functions that ensure organismal homeostasis, including maintaining bioenergetic capacity, sensing and signalling the presence of pathogenic threats, and determining cell fate. Their function is highly dependent on mitochondrial quality control and the appropriate regulation of mitochondrial size, shape, and distribution during an entire lifetime, as well as their inheritance across generations. The roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans has emerged as an ideal model organism through which to study mitochondria. The remarkable conservation of mitochondrial biology has allowed C. elegans researchers to investigate complex processes that are challenging to study in higher organisms. In this review, we explore the key recent contributions of C. elegans to mitochondrial biology through the lens of mitochondrial dynamics, organellar removal, and mitochondrial inheritance, as well as their involvement in immune responses, various types of stress, and transgenerational signalling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incidence of melanoma, the most lethal form of skin cancer, has increased due to ultraviolet exposure. The treatment of advanced melanoma, particularly metastatic cases, remains challenging with poor outcomes. Targeted therapies involving BRAF/MEK inhibitors and immunotherapy based on anti-PD1/anti-CTLA4 antibodies have achieved long-term survival rates of approximately 50% for patients with advanced melanoma. However, therapy resistance and inadequate treatment response continue to hinder further breakthroughs in treatments that increase survival rates. This review provides an introduction to the molecular-level pathogenesis of melanoma and offers an overview of current treatment options and their limitations. Cells can die by either accidental or regulated cell death (RCD). RCD is an orderly cell death controlled by a variety of macromolecules to maintain the stability of the internal environment. Since the uncontrolled proliferation of tumor cells requires evasion of RCD programs, inducing the RCD of melanoma cells may be a treatment strategy. This review summarizes studies on various types of nonapoptotic RCDs, such as autophagy-dependent cell death, necroptosis, ferroptosis, pyroptosis, and the recently discovered cuproptosis, in the context of melanoma. The relationships between these RCDs and melanoma are examined, and the interplay between these RCDs and immunotherapy or targeted therapy in patients with melanoma is discussed. Given the findings demonstrating melanoma cell death in response to different stimuli associated with these RCDs, the induction of RCD shows promise as an integral component of treatment strategies for melanoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular Biology has long tried to discover mechanisms, considering that unless we understand the principles, we cannot develop applications. Now machine learning and artificial intelligence enable direct leaps to application without understanding the principles. Will this herald a decline in mechanistic studies? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mapping the cellular refractive index (RI) is a central task for research involving the composition of microorganisms and the development of models providing automated medical screenings with accuracy beyond 95%. These models require significantly enhancing the state-of-the-art RI mapping capabilities to provide large amounts of accurate RI data at high throughput. Here, we present a machine-learning-based technique that obtains a biological specimen's real-time RI and thickness maps from a single image acquired with a conventional color camera. This technology leverages a suitably engineered nanostructured membrane that stretches a biological analyte over its surface and absorbs transmitted light, generating complex reflection spectra from each sample point. The technique does not need pre-existing sample knowledge. It achieves 10−4 RI sensitivity and sub-nanometer thickness resolution on diffraction-limited spatial areas. We illustrate practical application by performing sub-cellular segmentation of HCT-116 colorectal cancer cells, obtaining complete three-dimensional reconstruction of the cellular regions with a characteristic length of 30 μm. These results can facilitate the development of real-time label-free technologies for biomedical studies on microscopic multicellular dynamics. Cells stretch to thin films through the use of a nanostructured membrane. Analysis of the thin film interference colors of the stretched cells allows simultaneous measurement of the specimens' pointwise thickness and refractive index. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animal and bacterial cells use shared mechanisms to defend against viruses. Analyzing 3 families of immune genes, a new study in PLOS Biology illuminates this evolutionary connection and traces the emergence of antiviral signaling across domains of life. Animal and bacterial cells use shared mechanisms to defend against viruses. This Primer explores a PLOS Biology study which uses analysis of three families of immune genes to illuminate this evolutionary connection and trace the emergence of antiviral signaling across domains of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: African ancestry populations have the highest burden of stroke worldwide, yet the genetic basis of stroke in these populations is obscure. The Stroke Investigative Research and Educational Network (SIREN) is a multicenter study involving 16 sites in West Africa. We conducted the first-ever genome-wide association study (GWAS) of stroke in indigenous Africans. Methods: Cases were consecutively recruited consenting adults (aged > 18 years) with neuroimaging-confirmed ischemic stroke. Stroke-free controls were ascertained using a locally validated Questionnaire for Verifying Stroke-Free Status. DNA genotyping with the H3Africa array was performed, and following initial quality control, GWAS datasets were imputed into the NIH Trans-Omics for Precision Medicine (TOPMed) release2 from BioData Catalyst. Furthermore, we performed fine-mapping, trans-ethnic meta-analysis, and in silico functional characterization to identify likely causal variants with a functional interpretation. Results: We observed genome-wide significant (P-value < 5.0E−8) SNPs associations near AADACL2 and miRNA (MIR5186) genes in chromosome 3 after adjusting for hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and cardiac status in the base model as covariates. SNPs near the miRNA (MIR4458) gene in chromosome 5 were also associated with stroke (P-value < 1.0E−6). The putative genes near AADACL2, MIR5186, and MIR4458 genes were protective and novel. SNPs associations with stroke in chromosome 2 were more than 77 kb from the closest gene LINC01854 and SNPs in chromosome 7 were more than 116 kb to the closest gene LINC01446 (P-value < 1.0E−6). In addition, we observed SNPs in genes STXBP5-AS1 (chromosome 6), GALTN9 (chromosome 12), FANCA (chromosome 16), and DLGAP1 (chromosome 18) (P-value < 1.0E−6). Both genomic regions near genes AADACL2 and MIR4458 remained significant following fine mapping. Conclusions: Our findings identify potential roles of regulatory miRNA, intergenic non-coding DNA, and intronic non-coding RNA in the biology of ischemic stroke. These findings reveal new molecular targets that promise to help close the current gaps in accurate African ancestry-based genetic stroke's risk prediction and development of new targeted interventions to prevent or treat stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aulacophora lewisii Baly (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is an important pest of Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb. (Cucurbitaceae) in India. Larvae of A. lewisii feed on the roots, while adults consume leaves of L. acutangula. In the current study, effects of three L. acutangula cultivars (Abhiskar, Debsundari, and Jaipur Long) on the life table parameters by age-stage, two-sex approach, and key digestive enzymatic activities (amylolytic, proteolytic, and lipolytic) of the larvae and adults of A. lewisii were determined. Further, nutrients (total carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, amino acids, and nitrogen content) and antinutrients (total phenols, flavonols, and tannins) present in the roots and leaves of three cultivars were estimated. The development time (egg to adult emergence) was fastest and slowest on Jaipur Long (31.80 days) and Abhiskar (40.91 days), respectively. Fecundity was highest and lowest on Jaipur Long (279.91 eggs) and Abhiskar (137.18 eggs), respectively. The intrinsic rate of increase (r) was lowest on Abhiskar (0.0511 day−1) and highest on Jaipur Long (0.0872 day−1). The net reproductive rate (R 0) was lowest on Abhiskar (23.32 offspring female−1). The mean generation time (T) was shortest on Jaipur Long (52.59 days) and longest on Abhiskar (61.58 days). The amylolytic, proteolytic, and lipolytic activities of larvae and adults of A. lewisii were highest and lowest on Jaipur Long and Abhiskar, respectively. The lower level of nutrients and higher level of antinutrients influenced higher larval development time and lower fecundity of A. lewisii on Abhiskar than other cultivars. Our results suggest that Abhiskar cultivar could be promoted for cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From the 1990s, the Southeast Asia native giant resin bee Megachile sculpturalis (Smith, 1853) was introduced first to North America, and then to many countries in Europe. Despite increasing studies on its invasive potential and geographical expansion, information on nesting behaviour of this species is still extremely scarce. To increase knowledge on the nesting biology of M. sculpturalis , we studied multiple aspects of nesting and pollen provisioning in three consecutive years in artificial nests in Bologna, Italy. We observed 166 bees visiting nests, and followed individual nesting behaviour and success of 41 adult females. We measured cavity diameter in 552 nests and characterised the structure in 100 of them. More than 95% of nest diameters ranged between 0.6 and 1.2 cm, overlapping with several sympatric species of cavity-nesting hymenopterans in the study area. Most nests had a first chamber from the entrance of variable length without brood, followed by an average of about two brood cells with a mean length of 2.85 ± 0.13 cm each. The pollen stored in brood cells was almost monofloral, belonging to the ornamental plant Styphnolobium japonicum (L.) Schott. We estimated that a single female should visit ≈180 flowers to collect enough pollen for a single brood cell. These results fill knowledge gaps on the nesting biology and nest structure of the exotic M. sculpturalis , and they are discussed in relation to possible competition with native bees for nesting sites and foraging resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Harvestmen are a major arachnid order that has experienced a dramatic increase in biological knowledge in the 21st century. The publication of the book Harvestmen: The Biology of Opiliones in 2007 stimulated the development of many behavioral studies. Although the book is relatively recent, our understanding of the reproductive biology of harvestmen is already outdated due to the fast accumulation of new data. Our goal is to provide an updated review of the subject to serve as a benchmark for the following years. In the pre-copulatory phase, we explore the evolution of facultative parthenogenesis, the factors that may affect the types of mating system, and the role of nuptial gifts in courtship. Regarding the copulatory phase, harvestmen are unique arachnids because they have aflagellate spermatozoa and a penis with complex morphology. We discuss the implications of these two features for sperm competition and cryptic female choice. In the post-copulatory phase, we connect oviposition site selection and climate conditions to the widespread occurrence of resource defense polygyny, alternative reproductive tactics, and sexual dimorphism in several clades of tropical harvestmen. Finally, we present the different forms of parental care in the order, and discuss the benefits and costs of this behavior, which can be performed either by females or males. Throughout the review, we indicate gaps in our knowledge and subjects that deserve further studies. Hopefully, the information synthesized here will stimulate researchers worldwide to embrace harvestmen as a study system and to improve our effort to unravel the mysteries of their reproductive biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pithecopus rusticus is a small and charismatic leaf frog species known only from the type locality, in the Brazilian Subtropical Highland Grasslands of the Atlantic Forest, southern Brazil. In this study, we describe aspects of the reproductive biology and populational size of P. rusticus, encompassing the characterization of breeding season, microhabitat use for vocalization and spawning, the variation in body size of males and females and operational sex ratio, as well as explore the influence of climate variables on the abundance of individuals. We collected information from 2015 to 2021, mainly in the breeding seasons of 2015/16 and 2017/18. We recorded 91 individuals of P. rusticus, with a recapture rate of 61% in the 2015/16 breeding season and 57% in the 2017/18 breeding season. The estimated population size was 28.9 individuals for the 2015/16 breeding season and 21 individuals for the 2017/18 breeding season. The temporal reproductive pattern was intermediate, being concentrated in spring to early summer months (October to January), and the male calling activity differed throughout the night, increasing from 9pm onwards. The abundance of P. rusticus was significantly related with relative air humidity. We found sexual size dimorphism, with females larger than males, and a male-skewed operational sex ratio. Males and females used Poaceae and Cyperaceae leaves located close to water. Spawns contained 43 ± 5 eggs, with a diameter of 3.26 ± 0.45 mm, and were deposited on leaves of Senecio (Asteraceae) and Eriocaulon (Eriocaulaceae). Information on natural history is essential to support the implementation and success of in situ and ex situ conservation strategies for this endangered species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Jackfruit is one of the favourite fruit crops of the world owing to its taste and nutritional value and it is rightly called as the 'Poor man's food'. India is the second biggest producer of this fruit in the world; but commercial cultivation of jackfruit is still at a primitive stage in India. Besides a survey for the insect pests of the jackfruit in the earlier part of this century, there is no much research work has been carried out from India on jackfruit. Realizing an immediate need the present study was undertaken to generate more precise information about the biology of jackfruit bud weevil Ochyromera artocarpi, an important pest of jackfruit. Methods: The biology and seasonal incidence of the jackfruit bud weevil, Ochyromera artocarpi (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) were studied in Indian Council of Agricultural Research - Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (ICAR - IIHR), Bengaluru (12°8'N; 77°35'E), India during 2013-2016. Result: The male and female weevils completed their life cycle in 25.18±1.09 days and 26.14±1.12 days respectively with five larval instars. The mean incubation period of the egg was 3.90±0.20 days. The mean duration of development of larval stages, prepupa and pupa were 11.84±1.44, 3.10±0.07 and 7.30±0.50 days, respectively. The first and last instar (fifth) larva was 1.27±0.05 and 4.98±0.61 mm in length, respectively. The infestation of O. artocarpi was observed during December-April and reached its peak in March. Evaporation was positively correlated and precipitation was negatively correlated with O. artocarpi incidence. The results of this study will be helpful to develop IPM strategies against the weevil, which is a major pest of jackfruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, including colorectal, gastric, esophageal, pancreatic, and liver, are associated with high mortality and morbidity rates worldwide. One of the underlying reasons for the poor survival outcomes in patients with these malignancies is late disease detection, typically when the tumor has already advanced and potentially spread to distant organs. Increasing evidence indicates that earlier detection of these cancers is associated with improved survival outcomes and, in some cases, allows curative treatments. Consequently, there is a growing interest in the development of molecular biomarkers that offer promise for screening, diagnosis, treatment selection, response assessment, and predicting the prognosis of these cancers. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membranous vesicles released from cells containing a repertoire of biological molecules, including nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are the most extensively studied non-coding RNAs, and the deregulation of miRNA levels is a feature of cancer cells. EVs miRNAs can serve as messengers for facilitating interactions between tumor cells and the cellular milieu, including immune cells, endothelial cells, and other tumor cells. Furthermore, recent years have witnessed considerable technological advances that have permitted in-depth sequence profiling of these small non-coding RNAs within EVs for their development as promising cancer biomarkers -particularly non-invasive, liquid biopsy markers in various cancers, including GI cancers. Herein, we summarize and discuss the roles of EV-associated miRNAs as they play a seminal role in GI cancer progression, as well as their promising translational and clinical potential as cancer biomarkers as we usher into the area of precision oncology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Squaretail mullet, Ellochelon vaigiensis, is a commercial fish species distributed throughout the Indo‐Pacific region. This species tolerates wide variations in salinity, having been reported from both freshwater and marine habitats. Although economically significant, there is little information on its reproduction, especially in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta (VMD), where it is heavily extracted. Our study elucidates the breeding pattern, seasonality, first length at maturity, as well as potential and relative fecundity of this species. Fish specimens were collected by trawl nets from November 2020 to October 2021 at four estuarine sites within the VMD. We found this species to be a synchronous spawner, with peaks in reproductive activity from June to September. In the populations we surveyed, there was significant dominance of males (1.26:1.00) based on 942 fish samples (526 males and 416 females). The length at 50% maturity for females was significantly higher than for males at all sites and ranged from 10.6 to 19.3 cm. The diameter of the eggs examined for this species exhibited slight variation, from 0.43 to 0.54 mm. The potential fecundity ranged from 246,254 ± 35,878 to 411,970 ± 54,370 eggs, corresponding to female length and weight of 26.7–32.6 cm and 102.97–234.19 g, respectively. Relative fecundity values were highest at Thanh Phu, Ben Tre (6388 ± 605 eggs), and Dong Hai, Bac Lieu (6461 ± 637 eggs), followed by Tran De, Soc Trang (4729 ± 408), and were found to be lowest at Duyen Hai, Tra Vinh (3117 ± 223 eggs). Information on reproductive behavior in this species has far‐reaching impacts on sustainable extractions, stock conservation, and aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mineral deficiencies can predispose patients to surgical complications and poor wound healing. Moreover, it is known that a significant number of patients are on vitamin- and mineral supplements. Given the importance of nutritional status for any patient, a plastic surgeon should be aware about the role and management minerals for their patients, and how they can affect surgical outcomes. Methods: Literature on minerals was reviewed and summarized to include biological functions, surgical relevance, and effects of deficiency. Scientific evidence was used to collate advice to plastic surgeons regarding mineral management in the perioperative setting. Results: Minerals play fundamental physiological roles, some of which contribute to postoperative wound healing and immune response. Screening and supplementation for specific minerals can be considered based on patient characteristics, nutritional and medical history, and history of bariatric surgery. Conclusions: Plastic surgeons should have open discussions with patients to learn about which mineral supplements they take and whether they are at risk for deficiency. This comprehensive review discusses and provide guidance surrounding chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, selenium, and zinc in the context of plastic surgery. Level of Evidence: Not ratable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Biology, Ecology and Management of Tephritid Fruit Flies in China: A Review" published in the journal Insects. The correction addresses errors in Figure 1 and Tables 1 and 2, providing corrected versions of these figures and tables. Specifically, the correction addresses the distribution range of tephritid fruit flies in China, stating that it is not as large as previously described and that there is sometimes a lack of evidence for their presence in certain areas. The corrected figures and tables provide accurate information on the distribution of tephritid fruit flies and their host plants in China. The document also includes a list of plant species and their susceptibility to different fruit fly species, as well as a table showing the degree of damage caused by different fruit fly species to various plants. The document provides references for further research on the topic and assures that these corrections do not affect the scientific conclusions of the publication. [Extracted from the article]

The Vriesea oligantha complex comprises Vriesea lancifolia , Vriesea oligantha , and Vriesea pseudoligantha , which were recently transferred to Stigmatodon. Such species exhibit strong morphological convergence to live in rocky fields, which makes difficult their identification in the wild or in herbarium specimens. In a previous work, leaf characters helped in the species delimitation and evidenced a new taxon. Considering that morphology, anatomy, and aspects of floral biology can contribute to better define species limits and to indicate potential pollinators, individuals from nine populations of V. oligantha complex were comparatively studied. The typical V. oligantha is mainly distinguished by tubular flowers, with simple petal appendages and diurnal anthesis. The remaining individuals studied from different populations exhibit campanulate corollas, with denticulate petal appendages and nocturnal anthesis, not allowing for the separation of V. lancifolia , V. pseudoligantha , and a fourth taxon. Floral anatomy is less variable than the external morphology, with little contribution to the species delimitation; however, it is helpful in the circumscription of Stigmatodon. The infralocular septal nectaries and the floral features provide evidence that the main pollinators of campanulate and tubular flowers are bats and hummingbirds, respectively. Specific pollinator guilds in combination with fragmented populations may explain the limited gene flow amongst populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the first discovery in 1989, the β3-adrenoceptor (β3-AR) has gained great attention because it showed the ability to regulate many physiologic and metabolic activities, such as thermogenesis and lipolysis in brown and white adipose tissue, respectively (BAT, WAT), negative inotropic effects in cardiomyocytes, and relaxation of the blood vessels and the urinary bladder. The β3-AR has been suggested as a potential target for cancer treatment, both in adult and pediatric tumors, since under hypoxia its upregulation in the tumor microenvironment (TME) regulates stromal cell differentiation, tumor growth and metastases, signifying that its agonism/antagonism could be useful for clinical benefits. Promising results in cancer research have proposed the β3-AR being targeted for the treatment of many conditions, with some drugs, at present, undergoing phase II and III clinical trials. In this review, we report the scientific journey followed by the research from the β3-Ars' discovery, with focus on the β3-Ars' role in cancer initiation and progression that elects it an intriguing target for novel antineoplastic approaches. The overview highlights the great potential of the β3-AR, both in physiologic and pathologic conditions, with the intention to display the possible benefits of β3-AR modulation in cancer reality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are major components of CRC's tumour microenvironment (TME), but their biological background and interplay with the TME remain poorly understood. This study investigates CAF biology and its impact on CRC progression. (2) The cohort comprises 155 cases, including CRC, with diverse localizations, adenomas, inflammations, and controls. Digital gene expression analysis examines genes associated with signalling pathways (MAPK, PI3K/Akt, TGF-β, WNT, p53), while next-generation sequencing (NGS) determines CRC mutational profiles. Immunohistochemical FAP scoring assesses CAF density and activity. (3) FAP expression is found in 81 of 150 samples, prevalent in CRC (98.4%), adenomas (27.5%), and inflammatory disease (38.9%). Several key genes show significant associations with FAP-positive fibroblasts. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) highlights PI3K and MAPK pathway enrichment alongside the activation of immune response pathways like natural killer (NK)-cell-mediated cytotoxicity via CAFs. (4) The findings suggest an interplay between CAFs and cancer cells, influencing growth, invasiveness, angiogenesis, and immunogenicity. Notably, TGF-β, CDKs, and the Wnt pathway are affected. In conclusion, CAFs play a significant role in CRC and impact the TME throughout development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Internationally there is a shortage of psychiatrists, whilst clinical psychology training is generally oversubscribed. School students interested in psychological health may not be aware of the possibility of studying medicine before specialising in psychiatry. This has implications for the mental health workforce. To evaluate the knowledge and attitudes relating to a potential career in psychiatry amongst secondary (high) school students. A cross-sectional survey evaluated attitudes and knowledge relating to psychiatry and clinical psychology, targeting students from five schools who were studying chemistry, biology and/or psychology at an advanced level. 186 students completed the survey (response rate 41%). Knowledge was generally poor with only 57% of respondents knowing that psychiatrists had medical degrees, and most participants substantially underestimating the salaries of consultant psychiatrists. Attitudinal response patterns were explained by two underlying factors, relating to generally negative attitudes towards psychiatry and positive attitudes towards the effectiveness of psychiatric treatments. Females and those studying psychology reported more positive attitudes towards psychiatry. Those studying chemistry reported more negative attitudes towards the effectiveness of mental health treatment. Studying psychology predicted positive attitudes towards psychiatry. Such students could be targeted by recruitment campaigns, which emphasise factual information about the specialty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melatonin, historically recognized for its primary role in regulating circadian rhythms, has expanded its influence particularly due to its wide range of biological activities. It has firmly established itself in cancer research. To highlight its versatility, we delved into how melatonin interacts with key signaling pathways, such as the Wnt/β-Catenin, PI3K, and NF-κB pathways, which play foundational roles in tumor development and progression. Notably, melatonin can intricately modulate these pathways, potentially affecting various cellular functions such as apoptosis, metastasis, and immunity. Additionally, a comprehensive review of current clinical studies provides a dual perspective. These studies confirm melatonin's potential in cancer management but also underscore its inherent limitations, particularly its limited bioavailability, which often relegates it to a supplementary role in treatments. Despite this limitation, there is an ongoing quest for innovative solutions and current advancements include the development of melatonin derivatives and cutting-edge delivery systems. By synthesizing the past, present, and future, this review provides a detailed overview of melatonin's evolving role in oncology, positioning it as a potential cornerstone in future cancer therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Petrosaviales is an early diverging monocot order that includes only two genera with distinct nutritional modes, namely the autotrophic Japonolirion and mycoheterotrophic Petrosavia. A rare serpentine plant endemic to Japan, Japonolirionosense is the only species of this genus. Although Petrosavia species are known to produce seeds by autonomous self‐pollination, the mating system and flower visitors of J. osense remain unknown. In this study, the pollination biology of J. osense was investigated on a serpentine slope in northern Hokkaido, Japan. Pollination experiments suggested that J. osense predominantly depends on cross‐pollination by insect pollinators for seed production. Ants and dipterans were the main flower visitors to this species. This study showed that the two genera in Petrosaviales with distinct nutritional modes also have contrasting mating systems, which provides insights into the evolution of pollination biology in this early diverging monocot order. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractStudent understanding of climate change is an active and growing area of research, but little research has documented undergraduate students’ knowledge about the biotic impacts of climate change. Here, we address this literature gap by presenting the Inventory of Biotic Climate Literacy (IBCL), a concept inventory developed to assess undergraduate biology student knowledge of how climate change impacts living things. We developed the IBCL through literature review, student and expert interviews, student field tests, and expert review. We implemented two large nationwide field tests and conducted multiple psychometric analyses on these datasets. These analyses resulted in a final tool of 30 items measuring 16 constructs related to the biotic impacts of climate change. We discovered that the final IBCL does not represent a single, simple construct but rather the complicated and interactive concepts that comprise this topic. We suggest that sum scores are still a valuable measure, as certain groups (upperclassmen and politically liberal individuals) scored significantly higher. We also found value in analyzing individual student performance on the IBCL by developing student profiles. The IBCL represents an important tool in assessing student understanding of the complex and growing problem of climate change and its impact on the living world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper celebrates the life and legacy of psychiatrist and Jungian author Anthony Stevens, who passed away at age 90 on July 13, 2023. It outlines Stevens's origins as a research fellow in Greece, where his work on infant attachment led to a lifelong dedication to establishing the biological and evolutionary foundation of psychiatry. It details his instrumental role in the debate about the theory of archetypes and describes the current state of the literature including the responses and reactions to Stevens's biological innatist position. The paper concludes with a career retrospective in which Stevens's major works are introduced and briefly described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ziziphus mauritiana is an economically detrimental and environmentally destructive plant in non‐native areas where it has escaped cultivation. It forms dense, impenetrable thickets that restrict the movement of livestock across the landscape and has the capacity to alter various ecological functions at the site of invasion, all of which contribute towards land degradation and the reduction of economic profitability. Although there are several management strategies implemented to control Z. mauritiana, it is clear that no single‐method approach will effectively control the species in the long‐term. Whilst chemical and mechanical methods appear to show promising results, they tend to be restricted to areas that are easily accessible and, even so, can be challenging and laborious to treat evenly across dense thicket areas. Several prospective biological control agents have been identified for Z. mauritiana, although further investigations are required to ascertain the host specificity, and to explore and identify their climatic and environmental suitability of host specific agents for release in non‐native regions. Ecological burning alone is not effective in controlling Z. mauritiana and will likely increase its emergence. As such, it could be adopted as part of an integrated management approach to assist other methods for long‐term control, but again the development of such an approach requires further investigation. To contribute towards the control of Z. mauritiana, this review explores its biology, distribution and management challenges whilst identifying areas of research that will assist in the long‐term and confident control of the species, with an emphasis on its invasion in Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The use of non-host cover crops can be a viable strategy for managing soybean cyst nematode (SCN) Heterodera glycines. Cover crops may affect SCN biology and reduce populations by acting as trap crops that promote the hatching and/or penetration by second-stage juveniles (J2) without supporting their development. Two growth chamber experiments were conducted to assess ten cover crops for their impacts on SCN hatching and penetration into the roots. For each experiment, with four replications per treatment, crops were planted in naturally-infested soil in two separate sets to be harvested 15 and 30 days after planting (DAP). SCN susceptible soybean 'Barnes' and non-planted natural soil (fallow) were used as controls. Faba bean 'Petite', a non-host of SCN, induced the greatest hatching among the cover crops and was statistically similar to soybean. Winter rye 'ND Dylan' also induced significant hatching compared to fallow. Root staining revealed that the highest number of J2 penetrated the faba bean roots at 15 DAP, followed by soybean and winter rye. While J2 penetrated all tested crops, they completed their development to become adult females only in soybean and turnip. Soybean cyst nematode development to adult females did not occur in faba bean, and the number of SCN inside the faba bean roots 30 DAP was significantly lower than at 15 DAP and also lower than in soybean. These results suggest that the faba bean affects SCN biology and has the greatest potential to act as a trap crop for managing SCN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After reading this article about all the common essential vitamins, the participant should be able to (1) Explain their biological function and surgical relevance, (2) describe the clinical manifestations of deficiency and toxicity, and (3) provide general guidance regarding vitamins to plastic surgery patients in the perioperative setting. Vitamin deficiencies and toxicity can predispose patients to surgical complications and poor wound healing. Furthermore, vitamin supplement consumption among the general population has been increasing over time, providing the plastic surgeon the added responsibility to be informed about the interactions and effects of vitamins in the context of surgery. Literature on all common essential vitamins was reviewed and summarized to include biological functions, surgical relevance, and effects of deficiency and toxicity. Scientific evidence was used to collate advice to plastic surgeons regarding vitamin management in the perioperative setting. Most vitamins aid with wound healing. Screening and supplementation for specific vitamins can be considered based on patient characteristics, nutritional and medical history, and history of bariatric surgery. Vitamin E should be stopped two weeks prior to surgery due to increased bleeding risk. The plastic surgeon should encourage open discussions with patients to learn about which vitamin supplements they take and whether they are at risk for deficiency or toxicity. This is the first comprehensive review to discuss and provide guidance about all common essential vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12, C, D, E, and K) in the context of plastic surgery. Level of evidence : Not ratable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Explanatory note: The following text is described in the Ngāti Rangi mita (dialect), although concepts may be similar e.g. Mouri = Mauri, the spelling reflects the tribal vernacular. Context: National biodiversity monitoring in Aotearoa, New Zealand is primarily conducted within Eurocentric conservation frameworks. At present, Māori (Indigenous Peoples of Aotearoa) have limited interaction and role within these programs. Aims: We explored a biocultural monitoring tool based on mātauranga (Māori knowledge) to inform Ngāti Rangi (a central North Island Māori tribe) about the health of spatially separate, but ecologically similar, forests within the Ngāti Rangi tribal estate. Methods: We did a series of noho taiao (community workshops) and one on one interviews to collect the values that expressed a Ngāti Rangi world view, to measure the health of the ngahere (forest). Gradients and indicators were developed to apply a measure of ngahere health. The metrics were trialled in three forests to create a group understanding. The interviews provided an observation of ngahere health and assessed intergenerational differences in how forest health is perceived. Key results: Rongoā, Manu, Ngahere , Wai , and Tangata were themes prioritised by Ngāti Rangi. Biocultural indicators revealed moderate health across the three forest sites, whilst the more ecological-based indicators indicated moderate to strong levels of health. Age-related differences in how forest condition indicated evidence of an inter-generational shift. However, it was agreed that the forest health had declined over the past 30–40 years. Conclusions: A full sensory evaluation of forest health facilitates a deep relational connection to place, which coupled with philosophies such as reciprocity and whakapapa , are vital features of a biocultural conservation approach. Implications: Cultural–ecological constructs are key in relationships between Indigenous Peoples and their environments. Biocultural approaches can contribute to reversing the current biodiversity crisis, through partnering in placed-based solutions. Indigenous peoples' biocultural visions are poorly represented in mainstream conservation. Māori, of Aotearoa, New Zealand, desire equity in managing their natural resources, and have developed biocultural monitoring approaches. Decolonising conservation systems reinvigorates and supports Indigenous peoples self-determination, and is a step in reversing global biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial intelligence (AI) is advancing rapidly and continually evolving in various fields. Recently, the release of ChatGPT has sparked significant public interest. In this study, we revisit the '100 Important Questions Facing Plant Science' by leveraging ChatGPT as a valuable tool for generating thought-provoking questions relevant to plant science. These questions primarily revolve around the utilization of plants in product development, understanding plant mechanisms, plant–environment interactions, and enhancing plant traits, with an emphasis on sustainable product development. While ChatGPT may not capture certain crucial aspects highlighted by scientists, it offers valuable insights into the questions generated by experts. Our analysis demonstrates that ChatGPT can be cautiously employed as a supportive tool to facilitate, streamline, and expedite specific tasks in plant science. Large language models (LLMs) were recently made widely available to the public. ChatGPT is an LLM released in late 2022, which has received massive public attention and interest. A need has emerged to evaluate how ChatGPT and other such artificial intelligence (AI) tools can benefit plant science. Proper use of such AI tools can improve and expedite the scientific process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In Babitonga Bay, southern Brazil, records of yam consumption exist among shellmound builders from at least 4000 years ago. Shellmounds (sambaquis) are anthropogenic structures in the form of mounds with layers of shells associated with other faunal remains, as well as with charcoal, artefacts and burial. Larger sambaquis are considered to be funerary monuments. The indigenous Jê and Guarani people also lived in the region before the European invasion and cultivated yams. Currently, exotic and domesticated yams are cultivated in the region by farmers. Our aim is to describe the long-term history between the people and Dioscorea in the Babitonga Bay region based on its consumption and occurrence in shellmounds and swiddens. Methods: Surveys of Dioscorea spp. and host were carried out in the vegetation of shellmounds and in the surrounding area using visual detection through intensive searches in transects using the walking method. The survey of Dioscorea species used and cultivated in the precolonial, colonial and current periods was carried out based on the literature. In the present study, only Dioscorea trifida cultivations were recorded. Results: Dioscorea cayennensis, Dioscorea chondrocarpa, Dioscorea dodecaneura, Dioscorea laxiflora, Dioscorea olfersiana, and Dioscorea scabra, all recorded in associated vegetation of shellmounds, in different combinations of the species. In swiddens, D. trifida is most common, followed by Dioscorea alata and, to a lesser extent, Dioscorea bulbifera and D. cayennensis. Records of food use prevail, but they are used as medicinal plants. Yams are integrated on anthropogenic soils of shellmounds and in swiddens in monoculture systems or in intercropping with Zea mays or Colocasia esculenta. The presence of exotic food trees and D. cayennensis in some shellmounds indicates the influence of colonizers on the composition of the vegetation. In sambaquis, there are overlapping processes of construction of cultural niches by different human groups at different times. Conclusions: The sambaquis and the associated vegetation and swiddens form part of a domesticated landscape. The native species of Dioscorea recorded in shellmounds and surrounding vegetation do not depend on human action to perpetuate themselves in the environment. However, this does not rule out human influence in the past, but it does not indicate horticulture among the Sambaquianos. Greater investment in genetic, archaeobotanical and ethnobotanical research can contribute to a better understanding of the relationship between people and yams over thousands of years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As some misconceptions remain persistent, comforting and highly resistant to change, it is imperative to use methods and strategies that are centred around students’ abilities, interests and needs to address those misconceptions. This study investigates the appropriateness of using ‘concept cartoons’ to address misconceptions held by forty grade 9 students on the topic ‘plant nutrition’. A mixed research methodology, using the ‘conceptual change model’ and ‘reflective teaching model’ as underpinning theoretical frames, was used to develop a methodological framework comprising key stages; namely (i) analysis of the literature to identify common misconceptions held by students on plant nutrition, (ii) implementation of a pre-test to identify the most prevalent misconceptions held by the sampled students, (iii) use of concept cartoons within the conceptual change model to clear the identified misconceptions, and (iv) capture of students’ perceptions on the use of a concept cartoon-based strategy to bring conceptual change. The findings showed that the most prevalent misconceptions held by the sampled students were related to photosynthetic pigments, leaf adaptation, definition, raw materials, and the equation of photosynthesis. With more than 80% remediation of misconceptions showcased in this study, the use of concept cartoons within the conceptual change model was found to be appropriate in addressing students’ misconceptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In November 2023, structural biologists from different countries and different disciplines gathered at the Cell Symposium: Structural biology from the nanoscale to cellular mesoscale to discuss recent breakthroughs, including structures of proteins and macromolecular complexes in a cellular context as well as virus structures obtained by using different techniques. At the symposium, Cell editor Jia Cheng and Karin Kühnel, editor-in-chief of Structure , spoke with Drs. Beili Wu, Mingjie Zhang, and Zihe Rao about their experiences doing structural biology research in China and about their perspectives for the future. An edited transcript of the conversation is presented below, and the full conversation is available with the article online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determining the structure and mechanisms of all individual functional modules of cells at high molecular detail has often been seen as equal to understanding how cells work. Recent technical advances have led to a flush of high-resolution structures of various macromolecular machines, but despite this wealth of detailed information, our understanding of cellular function remains incomplete. Here, we discuss present-day limitations of structural biology and highlight novel technologies that may enable us to analyze molecular functions directly inside cells. We predict that the progression toward structural cell biology will involve a shift toward conceptualizing a 4D virtual reality of cells using digital twins. These will capture cellular segments in a highly enriched molecular detail, include dynamic changes, and facilitate simulations of molecular processes, leading to novel and experimentally testable predictions. Transferring biological questions into algorithms that learn from the existing wealth of data and explore novel solutions may ultimately unveil how cells work. The limits of the main techniques used in structural biology and the concept of cellular self-organization are reviewed in this article; a perspective of simulating cells in virtual reality that would extend structural biology to understanding cell biology is shared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Cell Press and the Cell focus issue on structural biology , we discussed with scientists working across diverse fields how AlphaFold has changed their research and brought structural biology to the masses. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Cell Press and the Cell special issue focusing on structural biology, we discussed with scientists working across diverse fields how AlphaFold has changed their research and brought structural biology to the masses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Cell Press and the Cell special issue focusing on structural biology, we want to highlight the rapid progress of cryo-EM related research in India in this collection of Voices. We have asked structural biologists to introduce their research and the national cryo-EM facilities throughout the country. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) within human proteins play critical roles in cellular information processing, including signaling, transcription, stress response, DNA repair, genome organization, and RNA processing. Here, we summarize current challenges in the field and propose cutting-edge approaches to address them in physiology and disease processes, with a focus on cancer. Intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) within human proteins play critical roles in cellular information processing, including signaling, transcription, stress response, DNA repair, genome organization, and RNA processing. Here, we summarize current challenges in the field and propose cutting-edge approaches to address them in normal physiology and disease, with a focus on cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundPurposeSampleDesign and methodResultsConclusionsIn Nigeria, like most other African countries, several efforts have been geared towards better students’ performance in science over the last two decades. However, research findings reflect no significant improvement in students’ overall performance particularly in the last 5 years.The study is concerned with the unsatisfactory sinusoidal wave-like performance of secondary school students in Nigeria in biology. It explored the potency of culturo-techno-contextual approach (CTCA) in breaking the barriers to meaningful learning of genetics which is perceived as a difficult concept among majority of the students.A total of 124 Senior Secondary two (SS2) students participated in the study. The control group had 58 students (30 males; 28 females), while the experimental group had 66 students (35 females; 31males)The study employed explanatory sequential design (quasi-experimental and interviews). The data for the quasi-experimental phase were obtained through genetics achievement test (GAT) which had a reliability coefficient of 0.81, while the qualitative data were generated through the student’s perception about CTCA interview guide (SPCIG). The experimental group was taught with CTCA, while the control group was taught with the lecture method. The quantitative data were analysed using ANCOVA since the participants were not randomly assigned to the groups and the qualitative data was analyesd using framework analysis.The result obtained showed that the experimental group outperformed (mean for experimental = 24.58; control 16.83; [F (1, 121) = 58.06; p < .01]) the control group. Difference in gender-based performance in the experimental group did not attain statistical significance.We concluded that CTCA is a viable pedagogical tool for promoting meaningful learning of concepts in biology and advancing the relevance of culture, technology, and context in science learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Hope is a significant concern for cancer patients, caregivers, and clinicians. • Associations of hope with biomarkers relevant for ovarian cancer were studied. • Hope is associated with lower levels of inflammation (plasma and ascites IL6) and more normalized diurnal cortisol profiles. • Adjusting for negative affect and hopelessness, hope is significantly associated with lower IL-6 and nocturnal cortisol. Although the concept of hope is highly relevant for cancer patients, little is known about its association with cancer-relevant biomarkers. Here we examined how hope was related to diurnal cortisol and interleukin-6 (IL-6), a pro-inflammatory cytokine previously associated with tumor biology and survival in ovarian cancer. Secondly, we examined whether hope and hopelessness are distinctly associated with these biomarkers. Participants were 292 high-grade ovarian cancer patients who completed surveys and provided saliva samples 4x/daily for 3 days pre-surgery to assess diurnal cortisol. Blood (pre-surgery) and ascites were assessed for IL-6. Hope and hopelessness were assessed using standardized survey items from established scales (Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale; Profile of Mood States, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy). Two hopeless items were z-scored and combined into a composite for analysis. Regression models related these variables to nocturnal cortisol, cortisol slope, plasma and ascites IL-6, adjusting for cancer stage, BMI, age, and depression. Greater hope was significantly related to a steeper cortisol slope, β = −0.193, p = 0.046, and lower night cortisol, β = −0.227, p = 0.018, plasma IL-6, β = −0.142, p = 0.033, and ascites IL-6, β = −0.290, p = 0.002. Secondary analyses including both hope and hopelessness showed similar patterns, with distinct relationships of hope with significantly lower nocturnal cortisol β = −0.233, p = 0.017 and ascites IL-6, β = −0.282, p = 0.003, and between hopelessness and a flatter cortisol slope, β = 0.211, p = 0.031. These data suggest a biological signature of hope associated with less inflammation and more normalized diurnal cortisol in ovarian cancer. These findings have potential clinical utility but need replication with more diverse samples and validated assessments of hope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to assess the ability of the modified contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) to distinguish malignancy in patients without known hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk factors and compare diagnostic accuracy with that of the World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (WFUMB) guideline across radiologists with different levels of CEUS experience. A total of 848 individuals with no hepatitis infection presenting with 870 lesions in non-cirrhotic livers were included and divided into the Testing and Validation groups. The modified CEUS LI-RADS was proposed, including downgrading of focal nodular hyperplasia with typical features. Diagnostic performance of the modified CEUS LI-RADS was assessed in the Testing group. In the Validation group, two radiologists with more than 9 y of CEUS experience (Experts) and two radiologists with less than 6 mo of CEUS experience (Novices) used both the modified CEUS LI-RADS and the WFUMB guideline to evaluate performance in diagnosis of the lesions. LR-5 + M (combination of modified LR-5 and modified LR-M) revealed optimal performance with a sensitivity, specificity and area under the curve (AUC) of 99.3%, 81.6% and 0.904, respectively. Novices using the modified CEUS LI-RADS outperformed those using the WFUMB guideline (AUC: 0.858 vs. 0.767, p = 0.005). Additionally, the sensitivity, specificity and AUC of Novices were comparable to those of Experts using the modified CEUS LI-RADS (94.1%, 77.6% and 0.858 vs. 96.1%, 77.6% and 0.868 for experts, respectively). The modified CEUS LI-RADS is a valuable method for distinguishing hepatic malignancy in patients without HCC risk factors. This is particularly beneficial for radiologists with limited CEUS expertise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuroinflammation is a key driver of neurodegenerative disease, however the tools available to model this disease biology at the systems level are lacking. We describe a translational drug discovery platform based on organotypic culture of murine cortical brain slices that recapitulate disease-relevant neuroinflammatory biology. After an acute injury response, the brain slices assume a chronic neuroinflammatory state marked by transcriptomic profiles indicative of activation of microglia and astrocytes and loss of neuronal function. Microglia are necessary for manifestation of this neuroinflammation, as depletion of microglia prior to isolation of the brain slices prevents both activation of astrocytes and robust loss of synaptic function genes. The transcriptomic pattern of neuroinflammation in the mouse platform is present in published datasets derived from patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's disease, and frontotemporal dementia. Pharmacological utility of the platform was validated by demonstrating reversal of microglial activation and the overall transcriptomic signature with transforming growth factor-β. Additional anti-inflammatory targets were screened and inhibitors of glucocorticoid receptors, COX-2, dihydrofolate reductase, and NLRP3 inflammasome all failed to reverse the neuroinflammatory signature. Bioinformatics analysis of the neuroinflammatory signature identified protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 11 (PTPN11/SHP2) as a potential target. Three structurally distinct inhibitors of PTPN11 (RMC-4550, TN0155, IACS-13909) reversed the neuroinflammatory disease signature. Collectively, these results highlight the utility of this novel neuroinflammatory platform for facilitating identification and validation of targets for neuroinflammatory neurodegenerative disease drug discovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technologies to decipher cellular biology, such as bulk sequencing technologies and single-cell sequencing technologies, have greatly assisted novel findings in tumor biology. Recent findings in tumor biology suggest that tumors construct architectures that influence the underlying cancerous mechanisms. Increasing research has reported novel techniques to map the tissue in a spatial context or targeted sampling-based characterization and has introduced such technologies to solve oncology regarding tumor heterogeneity, tumor microenvironment, and spatially located biomarkers. In this study, we address spatial technologies that can delineate the omics profile in a spatial context, novel findings discovered via spatial technologies in oncology, and suggest perspectives regarding therapeutic approaches and further technological developments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BcsD is broadly present throughout Proteobacteria and is predicted to contribute to cellulose crystallinity via interaction with BcsH. However, new work shows that, in non-crystalline forming Proteobacteria, BcsD contains an amino-terminal a1-helix, forms a tetrahedron-like structure, and interacts with alternative proline-rich protein partners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is a common complication of thoracic and extrathoracic malignancies and is associated with high mortality and elevated costs to healthcare systems. Over the last decades the understanding of pathophysiology mechanisms, diagnostic techniques and optimal treatment intervention in MPE have been greatly advanced by recent high-quality research, leading to an ever less invasive diagnostic approach and more personalized management. Despite a number of management options, including talc pleurodesis, indwelling pleural catheters and combinations of the two, treatment for MPE remains symptom directed and centered around drainage strategy. In the next future, because of a better understanding of underlying tumor biology together with more sensitive molecular diagnostic techniques, it is likely that combined diagnostic and therapeutic procedures allowing near total outpatient management of MPE will become popular. This article provides a review of the current advances, new discoveries and future directions in the pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of MPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the presence of recombination, the evolutionary relationships between a set of sampled genomes cannot be described by a single genealogical tree. Instead, the genomes are related by a complex, interwoven collection of genealogies formalized in a structure called an ancestral recombination graph (ARG). An ARG extensively encodes the ancestry of the genome(s) and thus is replete with valuable information for addressing diverse questions in evolutionary biology. Despite its potential utility, technological and methodological limitations, along with a lack of approachable literature, have severely restricted awareness and application of ARGs in evolution research. Excitingly, recent progress in ARG reconstruction and simulation have made ARG-based approaches feasible for many questions and systems. In this review, we provide an accessible introduction and exploration of ARGs, survey recent methodological breakthroughs, and describe the potential for ARGs to further existing goals and open avenues of inquiry that were previously inaccessible in evolutionary genomics. Through this discussion, we aim to more widely disseminate the promise of ARGs in evolutionary genomics and encourage the broader development and adoption of ARG-based inference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The view of organelles and how they operate together has changed dramatically over the last two decades. The textbook view of organelles was that they operated largely independently and were connected by vesicular trafficking and the diffusion of signals through the cytoplasm. We now know that all organelles make functional close contacts with one another, often called membrane contact sites. The study of these sites has moved to center stage in cell biology as it has become clear that they play critical roles in healthy and developing cells and during cell stress and disease states. Contact sites have important roles in intracellular signaling, lipid metabolism, motor-protein-mediated membrane dynamics, organelle division, and organelle biogenesis. Here, we summarize the major conceptual changes that have occurred in cell biology as we have come to appreciate how contact sites integrate the activities of organelles. Membrane contact sites between organelles act as hubs for lipid transport, calcium signaling, lipid droplet biogenesis, and organelle dynamics. This review discusses the conceptual changes in cell biology that have occurred, with the examination of how membrane contact sites modulate organelle function and integrate their operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the first of many thematic issues marking the 30th anniversary of Cell Chemical Biology , we highlight the contribution of chemical biology to RNA biology in a special issue on RNA modulation. We asked several leaders in the field to share their opinions on the current challenges and opportunities in RNA biology. [Display omitted] In the first of many thematic issues marking the 30th anniversary of Cell Chemical Biology , we highlight the contribution of chemical biology to RNA biology in a Special Issue on RNA Modulation. We asked several leaders in the field to share their opinion on the current challenges and opportunities in RNA biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Galaxias maculatus plays an important ecological and socioeconomic role in Chile. We determine the sex ratio, sexual maturity stages, gonadosomatic index, spawning period, type and frequency of spawning, and fecundity under experimental culture. The sex ratio was close to 1:1. First sexual maturity was reached at one year of age in 50% of the population. The highest GSI in both females and males was found in August. Nevertheless, females have a long spawning period, divided into two subperiods; the highest reproductive peak occurs between September and October, and the minor peak occurs between December and February. The females spawned between 3 and 10 times over a period of two months. The number of embryos per female per day varied from 1 to 429, while the total number of embryos per female during the entire season varied from 163 to 1044. This knowledge will be useful to establish future reproductive programs in captivity as a strategy for sustainable fishery and aquaculture management. This study determines the reproductive patterns of puye (Galaxias maculatus) under culture conditions. A population of 567 wild fish was caught in the Cautín River, Chile, and held in captivity for four years. Mortality, sex ratio, gonadosomatic index (GSI), sexual maturity stages, spawning period, type and frequency of spawning, and fecundity were measured. The fish grew throughout the experimental period, with the fastest rate during the first half of the first year of life. The highest mortality occurred during the first three months of the experiment and during the spawning season. The sex ratio was almost 1:1 (female:male). First sexual maturity was reached at one year of age, with an average weight of 0.85 ± 0.01 g, total length of 4.85 ± 0.16 cm, and condition factor 0.0074. The highest GSI in both females (12.14 ± 0.74) and males (17.7 ± 2.70) was recorded in August. Nevertheless, the females spawned 3 to 10 times between September and February, with the highest reproductive peak between September and October. The number of embryos per female per day varied from 1 to 429, while the total number of embryos per female during the entire season evaluated varied from 163 to 1044. There was a high correlation (r = 0.82) between absolute fecundity and body weight. Although further studies are needed in this field, these results are basic for establishing future reproductive programs in captivity as a strategy for sustainable fisheries and aquaculture management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To make sound science-related decisions in a global society, individuals must possess a science identity, or see themselves as capable of doing and understanding science. Science identity development begins in school-aged years, when multilingual students (MLs) are often marginalised in the classroom due to language challenges and low expectations placed on them. This descriptive multiple case study explores the science identities expressed by six US high school MLs in their biology classrooms. Data from semi structured interviews were analysed through qualitative coding methods. Secondary data sources included field notes from observations conducted in each student's classroom six times during the school year. Results revealed that all MLs expressed science identity indicators, including feeling like a scientist, having a personal interest in science, and seeing science as related to their worlds. Other important identity indicators were not expressed among all students, such as views of themselves as 'good' science students, doing or using science outside of school, and career aspirations. Over half of MLs cited language as a direct barrier to their science identities. The study makes several contributions to the field of science education, which are detailed. Implications are presented for nurturing MLs' science identities in the formal classroom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Podophyllotoxin is an aryltetralin lignan lactone derived from different plants of Podophyllum. It consists of five rings with four chiral centers, one trans‐lactone and one aryl tetrahydronaphthalene skeleton with multiple modification sites. Moreover, podophyllotoxin and its derivatives showed lots of bioactivities, including anticancer, anti‐inflammatory, antiviral, and insecticidal properties. The demand for podophyllotoxin and its derivatives is rising as a result of their high efficacy. As a continuation of our previous review (Chem. Eur. J. 2017, 23, 4467–4526), herein, total synthesis, biotransformation, structural modifications, bioactivities, and structure–activity relationships of podophyllotoxin and its derivatives from 2017 to 2022 are summarized. Meanwhile, a piece of update information on the origin of new podophyllotoxin analogues from plants from 2014 to 2022 was compiled. We hope that this review will provide a reference for future high value–added applications of podophyllotoxin and its analogues in the pharmaceutical and agricultural fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]