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Structural biology is a field of research that investigates the structure and organization of macromolecules to decipher their functional mechanisms. Traditionally, it has adopted a reductionist approach out of necessity, focusing on the high-resolution analysis of macromolecules outside their natural cellular contexts. This contrasts sharply with clinical research, which examines human biology holistically through patient studies and cellular disease models, albeit with less detailed structural insights. Recent advancements are bridging this gap, enabling the study of macromolecular structures within more complex biological systems, from single cells to multicellular organisms and primary human tissues. These developments signal a pivotal shift within structural biology from traditional methodologies towards a more integrated understanding of biological complexity. Here, we highlight recent technological advancements that facilitate structural studies in tissue environments, showcasing the discoveries made possible with these approaches and the prospect of their applications in human clinical research. This commentary of the Sparks of Science series from the Catalysts program reflects on the contribution of technological advances in cryo-EM to medically relevant studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The collection of the ancestral fruit cauchao (Amomyrtus luma) is part of the routines of women gatherers from the extreme south (44° South Latitude) in Chile. The traditional food knowledge of cauchao has not been documented, and there is no data on the nutritional composition. Women's experiences collecting cauchao can help understand the relationship between traditional food, herbal medicine, and local gatherers' communities. Thus, this research explores the traditional knowledge of food and the nutritional composition of cauchao. Mixed methods research was performed. A case study included in-depth interviews with 12 women gatherers and thematic analysis. The composition of macronutrients in cauchao was obtained by proximate chemical analyses and dietary fiber using the enzymatic-gravimetric method. Results showed that gathering for these women was more than just extracting natural resources; it was associated with family, food security, participation in different stages of the food system, and practices that could contribute towards sustainable food systems. Furthermore, cauchao fruit showed a high dietary fiber content, and women gatherers did not connect cauchao with dietary fiber. Since access to knowledge by small-scale food producers, especially women, is part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG#2.3), the approach of this research may help guide knowledge transfer among women gatherers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metastasis is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality; however, a complete understanding of the molecular programs driving the metastatic cascade is lacking. Metastasis is dependent on collective invasion—a developmental process exploited by many epithelial cancers to establish secondary tumours and promote widespread disease. The key drivers of collective invasion are "Leader Cells", a functionally distinct subpopulation of cells that direct migration, cellular contractility, and lead trailing or follower cells. While a significant body of research has focused on leader cell biology in the traditional context of collective invasion, the influence of metastasis-promoting leader cells is an emerging area of study. This review provides insights into the expanded role of leader cells, detailing emerging evidence on the hybrid epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) state and the phenotypical plasticity exhibited by leader cells. Additionally, we explore the role of leader cells in chemotherapeutic resistance and immune evasion, highlighting their potential as effective and diverse targets for novel cancer therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Even in mycophilic nations, mushroom foraging and use traditions may vary from region to region, making it part of cultural diversity and a source of traditional knowledge even in modern and changing societies. The main objective of our study was to investigate mushroom foraging and use traditions in major ethno-regions of Lithuania, to record and analyse whether and how biogeographical and ethno-cultural features influence these traditions, what is their biocultural significance, and whether they persist in the face of societal and environmental change. Methods: The study conducted a survey among 106 respondents from eleven administrative units of Lithuania, representing four ethno-regions (Žemaitija, Suvalkija, Dzūkija and Aukštaitija, the latter divided into North and East). The age of the respondents ranged from 32 to 97 years (mean 70 years, median 68 years). Each respondent was asked six questions about mushroom species and mushroom foraging. The interviews were accompanied by 50 photographs of different mushroom species. The similarity between mushroom foragers' preferences in ethno-regions and the sets of mushroom species used for food and medicine was tested using cluster analysis. Clustering was carried out using Sørensen distances and the method of cluster mean linkage method. Results: The number of mushroom species recognised per respondent was quite similar, with the lowest number of mushroom species recognised in Žemaitija and the highest in Eastern Aukštaitija. Species of no economic or other importance were not well recognised in any of the regions. The number of names applied to mushroom species varied from region to region and did not coincide with the popularity of mushrooms among mushroom pickers. The number of mushroom species used for food was also similar between regions, except for Dzūkija, which had the lowest number of species collected. Nine mushroom species were identified by respondents as medicinal mushrooms, the most popular being Amanita muscaria and Inonotus obliquus. When analysing the similarity of mushroom species collected for food and medicine, it was found that ethno-regions clustered into three distinct groups. Two groups depended on the prevailing forest types, while Žemaitija formed a separate cluster defined only by local traditions. Conclusions: The work represents the largest study of ethnomycological tradition in Lithuania, covering major ethno-regions. We have found that ethnomycological knowledge and tradition are not influenced by any long-term historical events, ethnicity or religion, but rather by the prevailing forest types and regional ethno-culture. Knowledge of edible mushrooms is considered to be inherited from the older generation and is conservative regarding the changes in the set of species consumed and mushroom-related gastronomy. This is also reflected in the safety of mushroom consumption, as mushroom poisoning was very rare among the respondents. Economically insignificant mushrooms are not distinguished and overlooked by traditional mushroom pickers who are not a good source of information on rare or otherwise noteworthy species. However, from a biocultural point of view, mushrooms and mushroom-related traditions remain important for linguistic diversity, traditional knowledge systems and their transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The exploration of protein structure and function stands at the forefront of life science and represents an ever‐expanding focus in the development of proteomics. As mass spectrometry (MS) offers readout of protein conformational changes at both the protein and peptide levels, MS‐based structural proteomics is making significant strides in the realms of structural and molecular biology, complementing traditional structural biology techniques. This review focuses on two powerful MS‐based techniques for peptide‐level readout, namely limited proteolysis‐mass spectrometry (LiP‐MS) and cross‐linking mass spectrometry (XL‐MS). First, we discuss the principles, features, and different workflows of these two methods. Subsequently, we delve into the bioinformatics strategies and software tools used for interpreting data associated with these protein conformation readouts and how the data can be integrated with other computational tools. Furthermore, we provide a comprehensive summary of the noteworthy applications of LiP‐MS and XL‐MS in diverse areas including neurodegenerative diseases, interactome studies, membrane proteins, and artificial intelligence‐based structural analysis. Finally, we discuss the factors that modulate protein conformational changes. We also highlight the remaining challenges in understanding the intricacies of protein conformational changes by LiP‐MS and XL‐MS technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ethnobiologists commonly analyze local knowledge systems related to plants, animals, fungi, and ecosystems. However, microbes (bacteria, yeasts, molds, viruses, and other organisms), often considered invisible in their interactions with humans, are often neglected. Microorganisms were the earliest life forms on Earth, and humans have interacted with them throughout history. Over time, humans have accumulated ecological knowledge about microbes through attributes such as smell, taste, and texture that guide the management of contexts in which microorganisms evolve. These human-microbe interactions are, in fact, expressions of biocultural diversity. Thus, we propose that ethnomicrobiology is a distinct interdisciplinary field within ethnobiology that examines the management practices and knowledge surrounding human-microbe interactions, along with the theoretical contributions that such an approach can offer. Methods: We reviewed scientific journals, books, and chapters exploring human-microbe relationships. Our search included databases such as Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and specific journal websites, using keywords related to ethnomicrobiology and ethnozymology. To categorize activities involving deliberate human-microbial interactions, we examined topics such as fermentation, pickling, food preservation, silaging, tanning, drying, salting, smoking, traditional medicine, folk medicine, agricultural practices, composting, and other related practices. Results: Our research identified important precedents for ethnomicrobiology through practical and theoretical insights into human-microbe interactions, particularly in their impact on health, soil, and food systems. We also found that these interactions contribute to biodiversity conservation and co-evolutionary processes. This emerging interdisciplinary field has implications for food ecology, public health, and the biocultural conservation of hidden microbial landscapes and communities. It is essential to explore the socioecological implications of the interwoven relationships between microbial communities and humans. Equally important is the promotion of the conservation and recovery of this vast biocultural diversity, along with sustainable management practices informed by local ecological knowledge. Conclusion: Recognizing the dawn of ethnomicrobiology is essential as the field evolves from a descriptive to a more theoretical and integrative biological approach. We emphasize the critical role that traditional communities have played in conserving food, agriculture, and health systems. This emerging field highlights that the future of ethnobiological sciences will focus not on individual organisms or cultures, but on the symbiosis between microorganisms and humans that has shaped invisible but often complex biocultural landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in the French overseas department of French Guiana, South America, nearly doubles that in its European counterpart, Metropolitan France. This region is demographically diverse and includes several populations of Indigenous Peoples. Although such populations are at particular risk of developing T2D across the Americas, very little is known about their health status in French Guiana, and accurate numbers of diabetic patients do not exist. Methods: In light of a potential public health crisis, an ethnomedicinal study of diabetes experienced by Indigenous Parikweneh was conducted to provide better insight into the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) related to this quickly emerging disease in French Guiana. Altogether, 75 interviews were conducted with community members and Elders, as well as healthcare professionals and administrators providing services to the Parikweneh population of Macouria and Saint-Georges de l'Oyapock. Results: Interviews suggest a high incidence of T2D in this population, with cases that have risen quickly since the mid-twentieth century. Parikweneh participants linked the development of the illness to dietary changes, notably through the introduction of new and sweet foods. Recognizing the complexity of diabetes and its symptoms, diabetic patients highlighted the importance of biomedical treatments and follow-ups, though they frequently alternated or used them concomitantly with Parikweneh medicines. With the help of biomedical tools (i.e. glucometer), local medicinal practices mirrored biomedical approaches through dietary adaptation and the use of medicinal animals and plants for glycaemic control and the treatment of complications from the disease. Conclusion: Parikweneh are appropriating T2D into their knowledge system and adapting their health system in response to this relatively new health concern. A greater understanding of local practices and perceptions relating to T2D among medical staff may therefore be beneficial for meeting patients' needs, providing greater autonomy in their health path, and improving treatment outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Archaeological bird remains from the Oregon coast provide important insight into local environments and the interactions between birds and people on the North American Pacific Coast. We contribute to this discussion with an analysis of bird remains from the Late Holocene Par‐Tee site (35CLT20) in Seaside, Oregon. We sampled the Par‐Tee avifaunal assemblage to near‐redundancy, generating the largest sample from a single site on the Oregon Coast to date (N = 7204). The Par‐Tee assemblage is dominated by nearshore or estuarine birds including scoters (Melanitta spp.) and Common Murres (Uria aalge), as well as pelagic Sooty Shearwaters (Ardenna grisea). Because of the large size of the sample, we identified unique species such as the California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus), which are currently endangered and face conservation challenges. Although the Par‐Tee avifaunal assemblage is diverse, site residents appear to have focused on acquiring the most accessible species in the nearshore habitat complemented by opportunistic pelagic hunting and/or scavenging of beached birds. Most birds appear to have been processed for dietary consumption, with possible preferential use of larger‐winged birds for tool manufacture. These findings underscore the value and challenges of using legacy collections for evaluating past human–environmental interactions in coastal and other aquatic regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, I examine the potential of studying living things archaeologically. I adopt and expand the term 'vivifact' first proposed by Kawa, Painter, and Murray [2015. "Trail Trees: Living Artifacts (Vivifacts) of Eastern North America." Ethnobiology Letters 6 (1): 183–188. doi:], defined in this paper as any living plant or animal the appearance, features, or distribution of which can be understood as the product of past human action. The ethical considerations required by living artefacts are discussed. Different types of living things that can be grouped under the vivifact concept are then reviewed, including culturally modified trees, patterns of vegetation growth and living populations having traits selected for by past human activity. Practical approaches are described by which archaeologists can approach these resources. Two case studies are presented from Virginia, one describing vegetation survey in a wooded landscape and one examining modern sheep populations to better understand eighteenth-century sheep. However, the techniques described could be applied anywhere in the world. I propose that vivifacts are best understood through the lens of the systems that create and maintain them. The common ground uniting all living things is that they are produced and maintained by systems, and it is the examination of these systems that can serve to create a unified archaeology of living things. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Progress toward the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is insufficient at a global scale. A thorough and interdisciplinary understanding of barriers and levers to sustainability, including synergies and trade-offs between SDGs, is utterly important but still limited. Ethnobiology is often advocated as a key discipline to address this research gap. We conducted a systematic literature review to explore (i) the visibility of ethnobiology within sustainability science, (ii) how ethnobiology understands the notion of sustainability, (iii) if ethnobiology literature on sustainability issues engages differently with nonacademic knowledge and people compared to other types of ethnobiology research, and (iv) which SDGs are addressed (explicitly or implicitly) by ethnobiology. Our study reveals a minimal overlap between sustainability science and ethnobiology literature. The articles reviewed never mention the SDGs explicitly, but often address them implicitly. Reviewed ethnobiological articles addressed themes of relevance to almost all SDGs, especially the linkages between SDGs 1–3 and 15, but always implicitly. Biodiversity's understanding (SDG 15) provides the basis for culture and Indigenous and local knowledge and ensures communities' food security (SDG 2), health and well-being (SDG 3), and prosperity (SDG 1). We found that ethnobiology does not examine sustainability through the lens of the global sustainability agenda, and that knowledge coproduction processes are rarely reported. While ethnobiology demonstrates its relevance to address SDGs and contribute to transformative change, this potential is not fully realized because of a persisting decoupling between place-based research and global sustainability frameworks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ecological apparency hypothesis tests how humans select plants. It is important to distinguish whether an "apparent" plant is the ecologically dominant species or simply the one perceived as most available by people. Additionally, plants' evolutionary history influences their prevalence and human preference, based on shared traits and common ancestors. Thus, considering evolutionary history can tease apart factors that drive the use of plants by humans. Here, we investigated whether the perceived availability of plants is a better predictor of their use value than phytosociological parameters. We estimated rural farmers' perception of the availability of the most important woody species locally and carried out a phytosociological survey in the surrounding forest fragments. We incorporated the phylogenetic relationships among useful species to shed light on the potential effect of plant shared ancestry on the use value. We observed that the availability perception of resources is more crucial in predicting the use value of species than their ecological availability, even when accounting for phylogenetic relatedness. Our findings suggest that use value in ethnobiology is closely linked to perceived resource availability, and it may impact our comprehension of the ecological apparency hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Even in mycophilic nations, mushroom foraging and use traditions may vary from region to region, making it part of cultural diversity and a source of traditional knowledge even in modern and changing societies. The main objective of our study was to investigate mushroom foraging and use traditions in major ethno-regions of Lithuania, to record and analyse whether and how biogeographical and ethno-cultural features influence these traditions, what is their biocultural significance, and whether they persist in the face of societal and environmental change. Methods The study conducted a survey among 106 respondents from eleven administrative units of Lithuania, representing four ethno-regions (Žemaitija, Suvalkija, Dzūkija and Aukštaitija, the latter divided into North and East). The age of the respondents ranged from 32 to 97 years (mean 70 years, median 68 years). Each respondent was asked six questions about mushroom species and mushroom foraging. The interviews were accompanied by 50 photographs of different mushroom species. The similarity between mushroom foragers' preferences in ethno-regions and the sets of mushroom species used for food and medicine was tested using cluster analysis. Clustering was carried out using Sørensen distances and the method of cluster mean linkage method. Results The number of mushroom species recognised per respondent was quite similar, with the lowest number of mushroom species recognised in Žemaitija and the highest in Eastern Aukštaitija. Species of no economic or other importance were not well recognised in any of the regions. The number of names applied to mushroom species varied from region to region and did not coincide with the popularity of mushrooms among mushroom pickers. The number of mushroom species used for food was also similar between regions, except for Dzūkija, which had the lowest number of species collected. Nine mushroom species were identified by respondents as medicinal mushrooms, the most popular being Amanita muscaria and Inonotus obliquus. When analysing the similarity of mushroom species collected for food and medicine, it was found that ethno-regions clustered into three distinct groups. Two groups depended on the prevailing forest types, while Žemaitija formed a separate cluster defined only by local traditions. Conclusions The work represents the largest study of ethnomycological tradition in Lithuania, covering major ethno-regions. We have found that ethnomycological knowledge and tradition are not influenced by any long-term historical events, ethnicity or religion, but rather by the prevailing forest types and regional ethno-culture. Knowledge of edible mushrooms is considered to be inherited from the older generation and is conservative regarding the changes in the set of species consumed and mushroom-related gastronomy. This is also reflected in the safety of mushroom consumption, as mushroom poisoning was very rare among the respondents. Economically insignificant mushrooms are not distinguished and overlooked by traditional mushroom pickers who are not a good source of information on rare or otherwise noteworthy species. However, from a biocultural point of view, mushrooms and mushroom-related traditions remain important for linguistic diversity, traditional knowledge systems and their transmission.

Abstract Background Ethnobiologists commonly analyze local knowledge systems related to plants, animals, fungi, and ecosystems. However, microbes (bacteria, yeasts, molds, viruses, and other organisms), often considered invisible in their interactions with humans, are often neglected. Microorganisms were the earliest life forms on Earth, and humans have interacted with them throughout history. Over time, humans have accumulated ecological knowledge about microbes through attributes such as smell, taste, and texture that guide the management of contexts in which microorganisms evolve. These human-microbe interactions are, in fact, expressions of biocultural diversity. Thus, we propose that ethnomicrobiology is a distinct interdisciplinary field within ethnobiology that examines the management practices and knowledge surrounding human-microbe interactions, along with the theoretical contributions that such an approach can offer. Methods We reviewed scientific journals, books, and chapters exploring human-microbe relationships. Our search included databases such as Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and specific journal websites, using keywords related to ethnomicrobiology and ethnozymology. To categorize activities involving deliberate human-microbial interactions, we examined topics such as fermentation, pickling, food preservation, silaging, tanning, drying, salting, smoking, traditional medicine, folk medicine, agricultural practices, composting, and other related practices. Results Our research identified important precedents for ethnomicrobiology through practical and theoretical insights into human-microbe interactions, particularly in their impact on health, soil, and food systems. We also found that these interactions contribute to biodiversity conservation and co-evolutionary processes. This emerging interdisciplinary field has implications for food ecology, public health, and the biocultural conservation of hidden microbial landscapes and communities. It is essential to explore the socioecological implications of the interwoven relationships between microbial communities and humans. Equally important is the promotion of the conservation and recovery of this vast biocultural diversity, along with sustainable management practices informed by local ecological knowledge. Conclusion Recognizing the dawn of ethnomicrobiology is essential as the field evolves from a descriptive to a more theoretical and integrative biological approach. We emphasize the critical role that traditional communities have played in conserving food, agriculture, and health systems. This emerging field highlights that the future of ethnobiological sciences will focus not on individual organisms or cultures, but on the symbiosis between microorganisms and humans that has shaped invisible but often complex biocultural landscapes.

Abstract Background The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in the French overseas department of French Guiana, South America, nearly doubles that in its European counterpart, Metropolitan France. This region is demographically diverse and includes several populations of Indigenous Peoples. Although such populations are at particular risk of developing T2D across the Americas, very little is known about their health status in French Guiana, and accurate numbers of diabetic patients do not exist. Methods In light of a potential public health crisis, an ethnomedicinal study of diabetes experienced by Indigenous Parikweneh was conducted to provide better insight into the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) related to this quickly emerging disease in French Guiana. Altogether, 75 interviews were conducted with community members and Elders, as well as healthcare professionals and administrators providing services to the Parikweneh population of Macouria and Saint-Georges de l’Oyapock. Results Interviews suggest a high incidence of T2D in this population, with cases that have risen quickly since the mid-twentieth century. Parikweneh participants linked the development of the illness to dietary changes, notably through the introduction of new and sweet foods. Recognizing the complexity of diabetes and its symptoms, diabetic patients highlighted the importance of biomedical treatments and follow-ups, though they frequently alternated or used them concomitantly with Parikweneh medicines. With the help of biomedical tools (i.e. glucometer), local medicinal practices mirrored biomedical approaches through dietary adaptation and the use of medicinal animals and plants for glycaemic control and the treatment of complications from the disease. Conclusion Parikweneh are appropriating T2D into their knowledge system and adapting their health system in response to this relatively new health concern. A greater understanding of local practices and perceptions relating to T2D among medical staff may therefore be beneficial for meeting patients’ needs, providing greater autonomy in their health path, and improving treatment outcomes.

Abstract Background The interplay between different uses of woody plants remains underexplored, obscuring our understanding of how a plant’s value for one purpose might shield it from other, more harmful uses. This study examines the protection hypothesis by determining if food uses can protect woody plants (trees and shrubs) from wood uses. We approached the hypothesis from two distinct possibilities: (1) the protective effect is proportional to the intensity of a species’ use for food purposes, and (2) the protective effect only targets key species for food purposes. Methods The research was conducted in a rural community within “Restinga” vegetation in Northeast Brazil. To identify important food species for both consumption and income (key species) and the collection areas where they naturally occur, we conducted participatory workshops. We then carried out a floristic survey in these areas to identify woody species that coexist with the key species. Voucher specimens were used to create a field herbarium, which, along with photographs served as visual stimuli during the checklist interviews. The interviewees used a five-point Likert scale to evaluate the species in terms of perceived wood quality, perceived availability, and use for food and wood purposes. To test our hypothesis, we used Cumulative Link Mixed Models (CLMMs), with the wood use as the response variable, food use, perceived availability and perceived quality as the explanatory variables and the interviewee as a random effect. We performed the same model replacing food use for key species food use (a binary variable that had value 1 when the information concerned a key species with actual food use, and value 0 when the information did not concern a key species or concerned a key species that was not used for food purposes). Results Consistent with our hypothesis, we identified a protective effect of food use on wood use. However, this effect is not directly proportional to the species’ food use, but is confined to plants with considerable domestic food importance. Perceived availability and quality emerged as notable predictors for wood uses. Conclusion We advocate for biocultural conservation strategies that enhance the food value of plants for their safeguarding, coupled with measures for non-edible woody species under higher use-pressure.

Background: The interplay between different uses of woody plants remains underexplored, obscuring our understanding of how a plant's value for one purpose might shield it from other, more harmful uses. This study examines the protection hypothesis by determining if food uses can protect woody plants (trees and shrubs) from wood uses. We approached the hypothesis from two distinct possibilities: (1) the protective effect is proportional to the intensity of a species' use for food purposes, and (2) the protective effect only targets key species for food purposes. Methods: The research was conducted in a rural community within "Restinga" vegetation in Northeast Brazil. To identify important food species for both consumption and income (key species) and the collection areas where they naturally occur, we conducted participatory workshops. We then carried out a floristic survey in these areas to identify woody species that coexist with the key species. Voucher specimens were used to create a field herbarium, which, along with photographs served as visual stimuli during the checklist interviews. The interviewees used a five-point Likert scale to evaluate the species in terms of perceived wood quality, perceived availability, and use for food and wood purposes. To test our hypothesis, we used Cumulative Link Mixed Models (CLMMs), with the wood use as the response variable, food use, perceived availability and perceived quality as the explanatory variables and the interviewee as a random effect. We performed the same model replacing food use for key species food use (a binary variable that had value 1 when the information concerned a key species with actual food use, and value 0 when the information did not concern a key species or concerned a key species that was not used for food purposes). Results: Consistent with our hypothesis, we identified a protective effect of food use on wood use. However, this effect is not directly proportional to the species' food use, but is confined to plants with considerable domestic food importance. Perceived availability and quality emerged as notable predictors for wood uses. Conclusion: We advocate for biocultural conservation strategies that enhance the food value of plants for their safeguarding, coupled with measures for non-edible woody species under higher use-pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Habitat destruction and snake persecution are the leading causes of the decline of snake populations worldwide, highlighting the need to formulate scientifically robust conservation management plans that incorporate an understanding of local public attitudes toward snakes. We conducted an in-person survey of 968 residents of Maguindanao Provinces, Mindanao Island, Philippines, to investigate attitudes toward snakes and assess the effects of knowledge about snakes, worldviews, and demographic characteristics on the support for snake conservation. Survey participants were primarily intolerant of and aversive to snakes but generally supported their conservation. Additionally, they were knowledgeable about the behavior of snakes, and shared either highly moralistic or dominionistic worldviews of nature, while most did not believe in folklore traditions. High levels of knowledge about the behavior of snakes, positive folkloric beliefs, high tolerance and low aversion to the presence of snakes, and moralistic worldviews positively affected support for snake conservation. Female participants were less tolerant and more averse to snakes than males. Participants with higher levels of education were more tolerant and supportive of snake conservation than those with little or no education. Farmers were less supportive of snake conservation than non-farmers. Our survey results provide important information to understand how cognitions, folklore, and demographics influence snake conservation on an island in the Philippines. This information may be valuable to government agencies and various stakeholders that could use it to design effective strategies for promoting snake conservation in the country, or other countries with similar societal systems and cultures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This theoretical essay aims to present and discuss post-dualist theoretical elements focusing on feminist biologists, aiming to rethink discussions about "the biological" in the Science Education research field. Among other aspects, this investigation is justified, considering the need for discussions of theoretical nature in this area. Initially, aspects of the nature-nurture debate are discussed, and then we briefly address the concepts of gender and sex through a temporal trajectory. Subsequently, we bring reflections on traditional biologies with regard to discussions of sex and gender, as well as the emergence of post -dualist biologies in dealing with these themes. Finally, we emphasize that these post-dualist perspectives can provide research in the area and our teaching activities with new concepts and approaches, not intelligible in a dualistic context, as is the case of sex/gender and social embodiment concepts, which express an entanglement between biological and social body. In addition, post-dualist feminist biologies can help us in the discussion of topics that involve anatomophysiological aspects and sex/gender, in a vigilant way to determinisms (biological or social), and without treating "the biological" as rigid or in a pejorative way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research article, we present the results of a qualitative study aimed at highlighting how the reports described in the work Através da Bahia, by the German naturalists Spix and Martius can contribute to the science teaching and teacher training that is sensitive to cultural diversity. The methodology used was documentary research, and the data analysis employed content analysis methods. The analysis indicates that there are excerpts in the mentioned work focused on ethnobiological and ethnoecological knowledge that open up possibilities for dialogue with school science content in biology, chemistry, and ecology (e.g., scientific classification, animal fossils, biological evolution, environmental sustainability, socio-environmental development, slavery, and racism). These excerpts could also draw teachers' attention towards considering and respecting cultural diversity from a historical and social perspective, contributing to teacher training that is sensitive to cultural diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropologists of the ontological turn claim that certain entities, processes, and relations are in principle inaccessible to outsiders of specific communities. Philosophers of ethnobiology see a challenge to the integration of scientific and ethnoscientific knowledge of nature in this claim. They propose to negotiate integration within a framework of overlapping ontologies. I explicate the methodology of the ontological turn and claim that it offers a better understanding of knowledge integration than does the philosophers' framework. Based on two case studies, I argue for a revised notion of knowledge integration that takes scientific change and mutual influence between communities into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In their folded state, biomolecules exchange between multiple conformational states that are crucial for their function. Traditional structural biology methods, such as X-ray crystallography and cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM), produce density maps that are ensemble averages, reflecting molecules in various conformations. Yet, most models derived from these maps explicitly represent only a single conformation, overlooking the complexity of biomolecular structures. To accurately reflect the diversity of biomolecular forms, there is a pressing need to shift toward modeling structural ensembles that mirror the experimental data. However, the challenge of distinguishing signal from noise complicates manual efforts to create these models. In response, we introduce the latest enhancements to qFit, an automated computational strategy designed to incorporate protein conformational heterogeneity into models built into density maps. These algorithmic improvements in qFit are substantiated by superior Rfree and geometry metrics across a wide range of proteins. Importantly, unlike more complex multicopy ensemble models, the multiconformer models produced by qFit can be manually modified in most major model building software (e.g., Coot) and fit can be further improved by refinement using standard pipelines (e.g., Phenix, Refmac, Buster). By reducing the barrier of creating multiconformer models, qFit can foster the development of new hypotheses about the relationship between macromolecular conformational dynamics and function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accelerated pace of climate-driven shifts is surpassing the temporal scope of conventional field research, potentially leading to a disconnect between ecosystem changes and scientific data collection. Climate change is producing rapid transformations within dynamic marine ecosystems, with a pronounced effect on high trophic-level species such as loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). We present a new model for data collection using ethnobiological methods, emphasizing how local community members can contribute to expanding scientific knowledge via context-informed observations, to document species occurrences beyond their anticipated habitats during climatic anomalies. In rapidly changing conditions, local expert knowledge can complement conventional scientific methods, providing high-quality data with extensive coverage--especially for elusive species--and yielding insight into potential emerging phenomena that may otherwise go unnoticed. Conventional methods for predicting distribution shifts in rare species are vulnerable to spatial biases, favoring predictions based on the most probable habitats. We present the case study of a live sea turtle sighting by a local expert in Monterey Bay, California, USA, identified post hoc as a loggerhead, to illustrate methods which can be transferred and applied to other rare and highly migratory marine species such as marine mammals, sharks, and seabirds. This emerging framework incorporates diverse knowledge sources and methodologies in monitoring climate-driven ecological shifts, enriching conservation strategies, enhancing our understanding of complex ecosystems, and contributing to robust evidentiary standards for rare species observations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the fields of infectious disease diagnostics, microfluidic-based integrated technology systems have become a vital technology in enhancing the rapidity, accuracy, and portability of pathogen detection. These systems synergize microfluidic techniques with advanced molecular biology methods, including reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR), have been successfully used to identify a diverse array of pathogens, including COVID-19, Ebola, Zika, and dengue fever. This review outlines the advances in pathogen detection, attributing them to the integration of microfluidic technology with traditional molecular biology methods and smartphone- and paper-based diagnostic assays. The cutting-edge diagnostic technologies are of critical importance for disease prevention and epidemic surveillance. Looking ahead, research is expected to focus on increasing detection sensitivity, streamlining testing processes, reducing costs, and enhancing the capability for remote data sharing. These improvements aim to achieve broader coverage and quicker response mechanisms, thereby constructing a more robust defense for global public health security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Western European societies, ecologies, and economies were significantly impacted by industrialization after WWII. Steadily increasing urbanization and the abandonment of traditional agricultural activities led to a rapid erosion of local environmental knowledge (LEK). We conducted 40 semi-structured interviews in Padua, one of the most industrialized areas of Italy, to identify changes and drivers of change in plant foraging. We documented the use of 56 plant, fungal, and animal taxa, including the most foraged Humulus lupulus, Silene vulgaris, and Papaver rhoeas. These are mainly prepared in risottos, frittatas, and boiled mixtures. During their lifetime, 68% of the interviewees redirected their foraging area, 25% completely abandoned their foraging practice, and 7% abandoned foraging but resumed it after retirement. Changes in the foraging area and foraging abandonment were mainly driven by increased pollution and lack of land accessibility, as well as partially related lifestyle changes and (micro)climate change. In the face of such changes and with the aim of re-establishing the connection between peri-urban communities and their land, some local committees are struggling to take back the unused spaces of the industrial area and prevent future loss of land accessibility and consequent loss of LEK. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The concept of "ecological keystone species" underscores the central role certain species play in ecosystem dynamics. Analogously, "cultural keystone species" are essential in organizing social-ecological systems, reflecting the critical relationship between humans and their environment. While various indicators have been proposed for identifying cultural keystone species, recent studies have questioned their efficacy. Challenges persist in defining clear criteria for identifying these species, distinguishing them from other culturally and economically important species, and incorporating the emic perspectives of local communities. To address these challenges, we propose the cultural keystone species syndrome (CKSS) approach, which focuses on species identified as unique from an emic perspective. We conducted a case study in the Araripe-Apodi Environmental Protection Area in northeastern Brazil, where two communities, Horizonte and Sítio Macaúba, rely heavily on plant extraction for livelihoods. Using the free listing technique, we identified species considered culturally important by local residents. Our findings reveal an overlap between species identified as having the cultural keystone species syndrome and those considered only culturally significant, challenging the notion of exclusive cultural keystone species. We discuss the implications of our findings for biocultural conservation and highlight the need for a more nuanced understanding of cultural keystone species and their role in shaping social-ecological systems dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beekeeping activity is a privileged lens for looking at the impacts of climate change since this human activity is profoundly and intimately embedded in the local ecology with particular reference to the flora. Therefore, we conducted 47 semi-structured interviews to identify the local perceptions of climate change impacts and their drivers among beekeepers of Liguria, a mountainous region of NW Italy. We found that beekeepers especially noticed changes in bee productivity and behaviour and melliferous flora productivity. Moreover, drought is a significant driver of changes in beekeeping as it affects both bees and melliferous plants. However, other drivers, namely alien species, pesticide spread, and abandonment of small-scale agriculture, also concur synergistically. We conclude that landscape planning sensitive to the needs and requests of beekeepers can further contribute to their adaptation to the impacts of climate change and reduce other detrimental phenomena on honeybee wellbeing by supporting small-scale agriculture to maintain a diverse landscape that provides fodder for pollinators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Due to early synanthropization and ecological and behavioural features, the White Stork Ciconia ciconia became the most cherished of European birds. Rooted in human culture, the species has been well studied; nevertheless, knowledge of people’s attitudes and stork-related folk beliefs remain descriptive. Here, we attempt to quantify these issues in the world's largest stronghold of the species, Poland, in the 1950s. Methods The study is based on recently discovered, original nationwide survey data from the 1958 International White Stork Census. These materials were gathered to assess the population size, but they also included issues belonging to the humanities. We have worked them up in a quantitative manner, which has resulted in an original approach rarely found in ethnological studies. We aim to propose an original typology of stork-related beliefs, their spread and regional diversity in Poland and the relationship with stork abundance. Results A sample of 2343 questionnaires revealed that affection towards storks was widespread (91.4% positive responses), more so in eastern Poland. The most frequent beliefs relate to respect for the stork (65%) and prophesies (24%), thereafter parental beliefs (7%) and stork biology (3%). Positive attitudes and the dissemination of beliefs increased with stork densities but were unrelated to the respondents’ sex. Utilitarian beliefs outweighed those prioritized in ethnographic studies (e.g. the stork’s human origins) or popular today (baby-bringing), and expressed the real concerns of country folk. Conclusions The discovery of long-lost data bordering on ethnology and nature conservation and their novel work-up highlights a realistic dimension of the human–nature relationship and provides a benchmark for further interdisciplinary research.

Abstract Background The complex interplay of social and environmental factors shapes ecosystems, potentially leading to harmony or conflict, highlighting the importance of understanding these dynamics for coexistence. In developing countries, firewood serves as a primary energy source and plays a role in cultural-religious rituals and festivities. However, the specific patterns of woody species used for the latter remain poorly understood, including the impact of access restrictions to resources and local bans on practices. Therefore, our research focuses on examining how access restrictions to forest resources and bonfire bans due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) impact the cultural-religious tradition of bonfire making during Festas Juninas (June festivities) in northeastern Brazil. Methods Ethnobotanical fieldwork was conducted in two rural populations in northeastern Brazil between 2021 and 2022. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, observations, and the guided tour technique. The cultural-religious tradition of bonfire making (i.e., richness of native and exotic firewood species, firewood volume, and the number of bonfires related to this practice) was compared between populations (i.e., differing in access restrictions) and years (i.e., differing in COVID-19-related bans) using Mann–Whitney U tests. Results Results revealed significant differences in the richness of native (p value = 0.001) and exotic (p value

Abstract Introduction This study aims to document and preserve the traditional medicinal knowledge of the Gelao community in Northern Guizhou, China, providing valuable insights for modern pharmacological research and the development of these traditional remedies. Methods Our methodology encompassed a blend of literature review, community interviews, and participatory observation to delve into the traditional knowledge of animal-derived medicines among the Gelao community. We employed quantitative ethnological and ecological assessment techniques to evaluate the significance of these practices. Informed consent was secured before conducting interviews, with a focus on ascertaining the types of medicines familiar to the informants, including their local names, sources, methods of preparation, application techniques, diseases treated, frequency of use, and safety considerations. Results Our research cataloged 55 varieties of animal-derived medicines utilized by the Gelao people. Out of these, 34 originate from wild animals, mainly encompassing small insects, reptiles, and aquatic species; the remaining 21 are derived from domesticated animals, largely involving their tissues, organs, and various physiological or pathological by-products. These medicines are primarily applied in treating pediatric ailments (13 types), internal disorders (11 types), gynecological issues (3 types), dermatological problems (7 types), ENT conditions (3 types), trauma-related injuries (5 types), joint and bone ailments (5 types), infections (2 types), dental issues (2 types), and urolithiasis (1 type), with three types being used for other miscellaneous conditions. Commonly utilized medicines, such as honey, Blaps beetle, chicken gallstones, and snake-based products, are preferred for their availability, edibility, and safety within the Gelao communities. Conclusion The Gelao community’s traditional medicines represent a rich diversity of animal sources, showcasing extensive expertise and knowledge in their processing and clinical applications. This wealth of traditional knowledge offers novel perspectives for the contemporary pharmacological study and development of these remedies. Additionally, our research plays a crucial role in aiding the preservation and continuation of this invaluable cultural heritage.

Background: Due to early synanthropization and ecological and behavioural features, the White Stork Ciconia ciconia became the most cherished of European birds. Rooted in human culture, the species has been well studied; nevertheless, knowledge of people's attitudes and stork-related folk beliefs remain descriptive. Here, we attempt to quantify these issues in the world's largest stronghold of the species, Poland, in the 1950s. Methods: The study is based on recently discovered, original nationwide survey data from the 1958 International White Stork Census. These materials were gathered to assess the population size, but they also included issues belonging to the humanities. We have worked them up in a quantitative manner, which has resulted in an original approach rarely found in ethnological studies. We aim to propose an original typology of stork-related beliefs, their spread and regional diversity in Poland and the relationship with stork abundance. Results: A sample of 2343 questionnaires revealed that affection towards storks was widespread (91.4% positive responses), more so in eastern Poland. The most frequent beliefs relate to respect for the stork (65%) and prophesies (24%), thereafter parental beliefs (7%) and stork biology (3%). Positive attitudes and the dissemination of beliefs increased with stork densities but were unrelated to the respondents' sex. Utilitarian beliefs outweighed those prioritized in ethnographic studies (e.g. the stork's human origins) or popular today (baby-bringing), and expressed the real concerns of country folk. Conclusions: The discovery of long-lost data bordering on ethnology and nature conservation and their novel work-up highlights a realistic dimension of the human–nature relationship and provides a benchmark for further interdisciplinary research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a crucial role in the early diagnosis of autoinflammatory diseases, with Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) being a notable example. HS, an autoinflammatory skin disease affecting the pilosebaceous unit, profoundly impacts patients' quality of life. Its hidden nature, with insidious initial symptoms and patient reluctance to seek medical consultation, often leads to a diagnostic delay of up to 7 years. Recognizing the urgency for early diagnostic tools, recent research identified significant differences in circulating miRNA expression, including miR-24-1-5p, miR-146a-5p, miR26a-5p, miR-206, miR338-3p, and miR-338-5p, between HS patients and healthy controls. These miRNAs serve as potential biomarkers for earlier disease detection. Traditional molecular biology techniques, like reverse transcription quantitative-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), are employed for their detection using specific primers and probes. Alternatively, short peptides offer a versatile and effective means for capturing miRNAs, providing specificity, ease of synthesis, stability, and multiplexing potential. In this context, we present a computational simulation pipeline designed for crafting peptide sequences that can capture circulating miRNAs in the blood of patients with autoinflammatory skin diseases, including HS. This innovative approach aims to expedite early diagnosis and enhance therapeutic follow-up, addressing the critical need for timely intervention in HS and similar conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The complex interplay of social and environmental factors shapes ecosystems, potentially leading to harmony or conflict, highlighting the importance of understanding these dynamics for coexistence. In developing countries, firewood serves as a primary energy source and plays a role in cultural-religious rituals and festivities. However, the specific patterns of woody species used for the latter remain poorly understood, including the impact of access restrictions to resources and local bans on practices. Therefore, our research focuses on examining how access restrictions to forest resources and bonfire bans due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) impact the cultural-religious tradition of bonfire making during Festas Juninas (June festivities) in northeastern Brazil. Methods: Ethnobotanical fieldwork was conducted in two rural populations in northeastern Brazil between 2021 and 2022. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, observations, and the guided tour technique. The cultural-religious tradition of bonfire making (i.e., richness of native and exotic firewood species, firewood volume, and the number of bonfires related to this practice) was compared between populations (i.e., differing in access restrictions) and years (i.e., differing in COVID-19-related bans) using Mann–Whitney U tests. Results: Results revealed significant differences in the richness of native (p value = 0.001) and exotic (p value < 0.001) firewood species for bonfire making due to access restrictions to forest resources. The number of native species used was higher among the population residing in the area with unrestricted access than among those with restricted access, while a greater number of exotic species was used in the population with restricted access. The rest of the variables were not influenced by access restrictions, and no variables were influenced by COVID-19 bans. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that access restrictions to forest resources, rather than COVID-19 bans, drive the selection of firewood species for bonfires during Festas Juninas in northeastern Brazil. In addition, as populations remain deeply entrenched in cultural-religious practices amid temporary bans imposed by health crises, there is a pressing need for culturally sensitive environmental policies. Fostering socio-ecological resilience demands a comprehensive approach that encompasses not only environmental factors but also cultural dimensions, which wield a pivotal influence on long-term sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Amazon rainforest is known for harboring the largest tropical forest in the world and for having one of the largest reserves of plant biodiversity on the planet. The indigenous people that inhabit the region have always used its plant biodiversity, mainly for medicinal purposes. In Roraima, there are several scientific and para-scientific studies on medicinal plants, however, there is no consolidated list of species used for this purpose. To address this gap, an ethnobotanical review of the species and the traditional knowledge related to them was conducted. For gathering data on the use of medicinal plants in local medical systems (LMSs) in Roraima, the PubMed (Medline) and Google Scholar databases were utilized. We screened and selected 72 articles and records. Four hundred and forty-four medicinal plant species were identified at the species level, belonging to 101 botanical families. Fabaceae, Lamiaceae and Asteraceae were the most frequent families and of the 444 species included, 282 were classified as native, 108 as cultivated, and 54 as naturalized. The DIP code (Certain infectious and parasitic diseases) was the most cited in LMS in Roraima. Although the results are expressive, the diversity of medicinal species in Roraima is probably greater than what the studies carried out have covered, considering the vast extension of the state and its ethnic diversity. The compilation of a single list of medicinal species can support new research and guide public health policies in Roraima. In addition, the data described here can provide a more general overview for making assertive decisions regarding the conservation of the local flora and practices within LMSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aims to document and preserve the traditional medicinal knowledge of the Gelao community in Northern Guizhou, China, providing valuable insights for modern pharmacological research and the development of these traditional remedies. Methods: Our methodology encompassed a blend of literature review, community interviews, and participatory observation to delve into the traditional knowledge of animal-derived medicines among the Gelao community. We employed quantitative ethnological and ecological assessment techniques to evaluate the significance of these practices. Informed consent was secured before conducting interviews, with a focus on ascertaining the types of medicines familiar to the informants, including their local names, sources, methods of preparation, application techniques, diseases treated, frequency of use, and safety considerations. Results: Our research cataloged 55 varieties of animal-derived medicines utilized by the Gelao people. Out of these, 34 originate from wild animals, mainly encompassing small insects, reptiles, and aquatic species; the remaining 21 are derived from domesticated animals, largely involving their tissues, organs, and various physiological or pathological by-products. These medicines are primarily applied in treating pediatric ailments (13 types), internal disorders (11 types), gynecological issues (3 types), dermatological problems (7 types), ENT conditions (3 types), trauma-related injuries (5 types), joint and bone ailments (5 types), infections (2 types), dental issues (2 types), and urolithiasis (1 type), with three types being used for other miscellaneous conditions. Commonly utilized medicines, such as honey, Blaps beetle, chicken gallstones, and snake-based products, are preferred for their availability, edibility, and safety within the Gelao communities. Conclusion: The Gelao community's traditional medicines represent a rich diversity of animal sources, showcasing extensive expertise and knowledge in their processing and clinical applications. This wealth of traditional knowledge offers novel perspectives for the contemporary pharmacological study and development of these remedies. Additionally, our research plays a crucial role in aiding the preservation and continuation of this invaluable cultural heritage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heart is a metabolic "omnivore" and adjusts its energy source depending on the circulating metabolites. Human cardiac organoids, a three-dimensional in vitro model of the heart wall, are a useful tool to study cardiac physiology and pathology. However, cardiac tissue naturally experiences shear stress and nutrient fluctuations via blood flow in vivo, whilst in vitro models are conventionally cultivated in a static medium. This necessitates the regular refreshing of culture media, which creates acute cellular disturbances and large metabolic fluxes. To culture human cardiac organoids in a more physiological manner, we have developed a perfused bioreactor for cultures in a 96-well plate format. The designed bioreactor is easy to fabricate using a common culture plate and a 3D printer. Its open system allows for the use of traditional molecular biology techniques, prevents flow blockage issues, and provides easy access for sampling and cell assays. We hypothesized that a perfused culture would create more stable environment improving cardiac function and maturation. We found that lactate is rapidly produced by human cardiac organoids, resulting in large fluctuations in this metabolite under static culture. Despite this, neither medium perfusion in bioreactor culture nor lactate supplementation improved cardiac function or maturation. In fact, RNA sequencing revealed little change across the transcriptome. This demonstrates that cardiac organoids are robust in response to fluctuating environmental conditions under normal physiological conditions. Together, we provide a framework for establishing an easily accessible perfusion system that can be adapted to a range of miniaturized cell culture systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today's world is confronted with many environmental concerns, including the extinction of plant species. Plants are harvested indiscriminately due to their usefulness in medicine, the economy, and agriculture. The need to preserve biodiversity, particularly in the case of plants, necessitates the use of ethnobiological knowledge. Ethnobiological knowledge is traditional knowledge based on indigenous peoples' use of nature and the environment, which they have gained over the years through numerous trials and errors. The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of indigenous knowledge in the use and conservation of plants by local people. This study was performed in three villages in Lar National Park: Polour, Ab-e-ask, and Niak, which have the highest population in the Lar region. The primary research method used was qualitative methods such as direct observation, interviews, and questionnaires, as well as instruments such as a voice recorder, Excel software, Arc GIS, and SPSS 25. Our results indicate that indigenous knowledge of local experts in Lar National Park is about the causes of plant decay in this area, germination, flowering time, experts' knowledge about the time and method of harvesting to reduce damage, and valuable therapeutic information about plants. Indigenous knowledge offers significant potential in plant conservation, especially for medicinal plants, exposed to a high risk of extinction due to widespread use. Our results highlight the importance of including local knowledge holders as active partners in biodiversity protection in the Lar region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]