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Active matter systems, being in a non-equilibrium state, exhibit complex behaviors, such as self-organization, giving rise to emergent phenomena. There are many examples of active particles with biological origins, including bacteria and spermatozoa, or with artificial origins, such as self-propelled swimmers and Janus particles. The ability to manipulate active particles is vital for their effective application, e.g., separating motile spermatozoa from nonmotile and dead ones, to increase fertilization chance. In this study, we proposed a mechanism—an apparatus—to sort and demix active particles based on their motility values (Péclet number). Initially, using Brownian simulations, we demonstrated the feasibility of sorting self-propelled particles. Following this, we employed machine learning methods, supplemented with data from comprehensive simulations that we conducted for this study, to model the complex behavior of active particles. This enabled us to sort them based on their Péclet number. Finally, we evaluated the performance of the developed models and showed their effectiveness in demixing and sorting the active particles. Our findings can find applications in various fields, including physics, biology, and biomedical science, where the sorting and manipulation of active particles play a pivotal role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An important question is whether the placenta is a source of, or merely a niche for, blood-forming hematopoietic stem cells. A recent PLOS Biology study suggests that the placenta does not directly give rise to hematopoietic stem cells. An important question is whether the placenta is a source of, or merely a niche for, blood-forming hematopoietic stem cells. This Primer highlights a recent PLOS Biology study showing that the placenta does not directly give rise to hematopoietic stem cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The removal of the theory of biological evolution from school curricula in India represents a concern for the integrity of education and the country's progress. It compromises its ability to cope with climate change, undermines vital areas such as agriculture and health, and undermines its scientific and technological potential. Demonstrating the negative impacts is crucial to reversing this decision in India and setting a global example against religious influences on evidence-based education. Reconciling religious beliefs and accepting the theory of evolution is possible. Protecting the integrity of science education is essential to meet the challenges of the modern world. It is also important to consider that other countries, such as the USA and Brazil, have had their science and biological evolution education threatened by various forms of interference, therefore what is happening in India should serve as a warning and prepare reactions to this type of threat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, I defend a non-mechanistic interpretation of Kant's philosophy of nature. My interpretation contradicts the robust tradition of reading Kant as a mechanist about nature – or as someone who endorses the view that we can know the internally purposive causality characteristic of organisms has no place in nature. By attending closely to Kant's remarks about the possibility of internal purposiveness in nature and to key premises from Kant's arguments in the Antinomy of Teleological Judgment, we shall see that it is not only plausible, but preferable, to believe that internally purposive things (i.e., organisms) exist in nature. Making room for such a belief leaves Kant with a philosophy of nature that simultaneously aligns with and surpasses the philosophies of nature offered up by his Early Modern predecessors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In biology, the concept of "living organism" has traditionally been based on the smallest level of organization comprising all the necessary and essential characteristics of life: the cell. Today, this concept is being challenged by the analysis of ambiguous biological entities, located both below and above the level of the living cell, which exhibit some of the characteristics of living organisms. This situation has given rise to an epistemological pluralism of the concepts of "organism", "individual" and "living", for which no clear and unanimous definition has yet been accepted. The aim of this manuscript is to explore new ideas and perspectives for defining the concept of "living organism", in order to eliminate a certain level of pluralism that could generate confusion, particularly in the pragmatic context of biological research. First, I expose the dualism of the concepts of "organism" and "individual" and suggest a fusion of these concepts in order to eliminate a certain level of pluralism. In doing so, I develop a symbiotic and holistic definition of the concept of "living organism", which includes different structural levels of the organism: molecular, cellular and ecosystems. Second, I present the epistemological problem of the concept of "living", which is closely related to the concepts of "organism" and "individual", by analyzing the list and gradational types of definition. In doing so, I propose a new symbiotic, holistic and gradualist model of the concept of "living organism", using a gradation of several properties of the living applied to the different structural levels of the organism developed previously (molecular, cellular, ecosystems). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this first tabulation and analysis of natural enemies of Sciomyzidae (snailkilling flies), 218 records are presented for 97 species and morphospecies in 44 genera of parasitoids, predators and pathogens. These represent 27 families in 7 orders attacking 64 of the 548 valid sciomyzid species in 23 of the 60 genera, in all major biogeographical regions, mainly North America and Western Europe. Our objectives are (1) to cast the data on natural enemies of a group of flies, with analysis, into a broad biological perspective; and (2) to provide specific data for selection of biocontrol agents. Parasitoid Hymenoptera are the primary natural enemies, 67 species and morphospecies in 25 genera of egg, larva/pupal and pupal parasitoids having been reared in nature from 24 sciomyzid species in 8 genera. Notably, all of our records of larval/pupal and pupal parasitoids are of rearings from isolated puparia, unlike many of the records of parasitoids of Tephritidae, reared from mass cultures of fruit, in which several species of Tephritidae (and other Diptera) were feeding. Herein we take a broad view of the complex of natural enemies, relating them to the extensive knowledge on the biology of the family, and analyse them in relation to the classification, phylogeny, distribution, habitats, and phenological and behavioural groups of Sciomyzidae. Parasitoid genera in the hymenopterous families Braconidae, Chalcididae, Diapriidae, Ichneumonidae, Pteromalidae and Trichogrammatidae are characterised briefly in regard to geographical distribution, host range, habitats, phenology and other aspects. Background information on Sciomyzidae and keys to the families and genera of parasitoid Hymenoptera attacking Sciomyzidae are included to encourage collection of and research on parasitoid natural enemies. Natural enemies are evaluated as to their impact on the use of Sciomyzidae as biological control agents of disease-carrying freshwater snails and pestiferous terrestrial snails and slugs in fieldcrop and greenhouses. [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]

This work tested the hypothesis that the academic performance of students in a distance learning course in Biological Sciences (PBS-CEDERJ) decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic in disciplines with and without practical activities. Performance was quantified via students' grades in PBS-CEDERJ disciplines in pre-pandemic years (2018 and 2019) and during the pandemic (2020 and 2021) years. Student grades increased significantly during the pandemic in almost all disciplines with and without practical classes. Adapted face-to-face activities for the remote mode allowed consultation with teaching materials and the internet, and this contributed to increased performance. These results provide a scientific basis for a possible reformulation of the PBS-CEDERJ evaluation system. It is recommended for the period coined 'new normal', a better distribution of the weight of grades, aiming mainly at a more humanised assessment that stimulates critical thinking, to the detriment of memorisation of content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seventeen years following the introduction and subsequent adoption of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in Tanzanian secondary schools, teachers continue to grapple with its implementation. This research, guided by the curriculum framework, aims to uncover the underlying issues hindering the seamless execution of CBC and explore the various strategies employed by Biology teachers to address these challenges. The study involved 32 participants, including heads of schools, heads of Biology departments, Biology teachers, and students. Data collection methods encompassed interviews, focus group discussions, document reviews, and observations, with thematic data analysis yielding significant insights. The findings illuminate that Biology teachers encounter several hurdles, including insufficient knowledge, to effectively implement CBC, irregular and inadequate staff training related to CBC, insufficient teaching and learning resources, and inadequate laboratory space for equipment storage. In response to these challenges, Biology teachers have resorted to improvisation for missing laboratory equipment and have leveraged neighbouring schools' and colleges' laboratories to facilitate biology practical sessions. In light of these findings, the study recommends the implementation of regular in-service teacher training programmes specifically tailored to CBC, alongside the provision of necessary teaching and learning resources. These measures are essential to facilitate the seamless execution of the CBC and enhance the overall educational experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous group of malignancies with poor prognosis. AML result from the proliferation of immature myeloid cells blocked at a variable stage of differentiation. Beyond inter-patient heterogeneity, AMLs are characterized by genetic and phenotypic intra-patient heterogeneity. Despite major advances in deciphering AML biology with bulk sequencing studies, pivotal questions remain unanswered. Analyses at the single-cell level could thus transform our understanding of these neoplasms. We review recent progresses in single-cell sequencing technologies from cell processing to bioinformatic pipelines. We next discuss how single-cell applications have helped understand the genetic and functional intra-leukemic heterogeneity, emphasizing aspects related to leukemic stem cells, clonal evolution and measurable residual disease (MRD) monitoring. We finally delineate how single-cell technologies could be implemented in routine clinical practice to improve patient management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There have been three periods in physicists moving to biology. First, a few distinguished physicists recognized early the need and possibilities for applying their approach to biology. Then, Erwin Schrödinger's What is Life? induced a good number of scientists to seek the next frontier of science in biology. The trend has continued in recent time; thus, we are living the third period. For a few scientists, their path to biology is looked at in some detail. The peculiar case of outstanding physicists salvaging biology in the Soviet Union is mentioned. So is the world-famous Cavendish Laboratory initiating what has become a leading venue of biological research. Broad-based education fosters scientists' ability to change their main line of enquiry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intricate control of collective cell dynamics is crucial for enabling organismic development and tissue regeneration. Despite the availability of various in vitro and in vivo models, studies on tissue-scale cell dynamics and associated emergent properties in living systems remain methodically challenging. Here, we describe key advantages of using the adult zebrafish tailfin (caudal fin) as a robust in vivo model for dissecting millimeter-scale collective cell dynamics during regeneration and wound healing in a complex tissue. For researchers considering this model system, we briefly introduce the tailfin anatomy, as well as available transgenic reporter tools and live-imaging setups that may be utilized to study epidermal cell behaviors. To highlight the unique strengths of the zebrafish tailfin model, we present an example project that was made possible by techniques for tracking cell dynamics at a millimeter scale with single-cell resolution in live animals. Finally, we discuss the research directions at the interface of collective cell dynamics and regenerative biology that most excite us and can be examined using the tailfin model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eating is a multisensory experience: food's smell, look, and texture are as important as taste. A new study in PLOS Biology shows that fly larvae respond to food texture and integrate information from different modalities within a single gustatory neuron. Eating is a multisensory experience: food's smell, look, and texture are as important as taste. This Primer explores a new study in PLOS Biology showing that fly larvae respond to food texture and integrate information from different modalities within a single gustatory neuron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

\nKEY POINTS Guidelines for biology higher education emphasize generation and evaluation of hypotheses but remain ambiguous in elucidating their role. The absence of a clear definition of the scientific hypothesis, such as that proposed by philosopher Karl Popper, in current guidelines may hinder students’ learning of the research process. This study examined historical perspectives on hypotheses and predictions, as well as their use in contemporary research articles from PLOS Biology, finding varied views and often unclear usage in biology research. The authors recommend explicit discussion of real-world variations in scientific reasoning to better represent science to undergraduate students. We explored the variation in perspectives on the concept of a scientific hypothesis within the history and philosophy of science and contemporary biology research articles, in the context of biology teaching and learning.Our findings indicate that there exists a diversity of approaches to the concept and application of a scientific hypothesis among biology researchers, and that this diversity is not indicated in current guidelines for undergraduate biology education in the United States.We propose that students’ understanding of authentic research practices would benefit from explicit discussion of the real-world variation in application of, and perspectives on, hypotheses and predictions in biology research.We explored the variation in perspectives on the concept of a scientific hypothesis within the history and philosophy of science and contemporary biology research articles, in the context of biology teaching and learning.Our findings indicate that there exists a diversity of approaches to the concept and application of a scientific hypothesis among biology researchers, and that this diversity is not indicated in current guidelines for undergraduate biology education in the United States.We propose that students’ understanding of authentic research practices would benefit from explicit discussion of the real-world variation in application of, and perspectives on, hypotheses and predictions in biology research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organophosphorus chemistry plays a crucial role in several scientific disciplines, including chemistry, biology, medicine, and pharmacy. In particular, phosphonates have found important applications in diverse health- and technology-related areas, for example, drugs for calcium metabolic disorders, and corrosion and scale inhibitors. This review discusses the importance of phosphonate compounds from a green chemistry point of view, along the lines of synthesis, applications and recovery/recycling. It is the hope of the authors that readers will form their own answer to the question posed in the title. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A conflict between evidence for causation and the metaphysical requirement of spatiotemporal distinct causal relata arises if the results of experiments commonly described as ‘bottom-up’ and ‘top-down’ are taken to demonstrate ontological determination dependencies between parts and wholes or their respective behaviours. It has been argued that the problem can be circumvented if experimental results are interpreted in terms of relationships between variables measured and manipulated at separating scales. I argue that scale separation fails in the case of biological phenomena due to the small number of molecules and molecular events underlying these phenomena, which makes it impossible to completely disentangle micro and macro-scale behaviours. I defend instead a causal mediation interpretation according to which experiments assess the effects of interventions targeting the composition and exposure of biological systems. Under this interpretation, causal relata are ontologically distinct fractions or parts of biological systems, thus avoiding the oddity of part-whole causation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circadian rhythms are intrinsic molecular mechanisms that synchronize biological functions with the day/night cycle. The mammalian gut is colonized by a myriad of microbes, collectively named the gut microbiota. The microbiota impacts host physiology via metabolites and structural components. A key mechanism is the modulation of host epigenetic pathways, especially histone modifications. An increasing number of studies indicate the role of the microbiota in regulating host circadian rhythms. However, the mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we summarize studies on microbial regulation of host circadian rhythms and epigenetic pathways, highlight recent findings on how the microbiota employs host epigenetic machinery to regulate circadian rhythms, and discuss its impacts on host physiology, particularly immune and metabolic functions. We further describe current challenges and resources that could facilitate research on microbiota-epigenetic-circadian rhythm interactions to advance our knowledge of circadian disorders and possible therapeutic avenues. [Display omitted] The gut microbiota is an emerging player in regulating host circadian rhythms. Sharma et al. summarize the chemical mechanisms through which the gut microbiota targets host epigenetic machinery to regulate diurnal rhythms. They describe current challenges and resources to further understand circadian regulation through the microbiota-epigenetic circuit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The plant microbiota research field has rapidly shifted from efforts aimed at gaining a descriptive understanding of microbiota composition to a focus on acquiring mechanistic insights into microbiota functions and assembly rules. This evolution was driven by our ability to establish comprehensive collections of plant‐associated microbes and to reconstruct meaningful microbial synthetic communities (SynComs). We argue that this powerful deconstruction–reconstruction strategy can be used to reconstitute increasingly complex synthetic ecosystems (SynEcos) and mechanistically understand high‐level biological organization. The transitioning from simple to more advanced, fully tractable and programmable gnotobiotic SynEcos is ongoing and aims at rationally simplifying natural ecosystems by engineering them. Such reconstitution ecology approaches represent an untapped strategy for bridging the gap between ecology and functional biology and for unraveling plant–microbiota–environment mechanisms that modulate ecosystem health, assembly, and functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Science fiction has often been described as the encounter with difference as this is a genre that enables readers and viewers to experience what it means to be the other. With alterity playing a prominent role in most recent science fiction through traditional figures within the genre such as the alien, the robot or the android, it is interesting to approach works with an ecofeminist perspective as to explore how otherness is portrayed. This article aims to explore City of Pearl, the first novel of The Wess'har Wars series by Karen Traviss looking at the different species, human and alien, that appear in the novel. The focus will be on how they relate with other species as well as with their own habitat. In order to do so I will consider both posthumanist and ecofeminist theories and how they intersect in the protagonists’ sets of beliefs and ethics, also taking into account how certain organisms present in the novel alter biology so that the boundary between species is constantly challenged and changing. Therefore, this novel questions dualistic notions embedded in our reality and enables both protagonists and readers to reflect on concepts related to evolution or exceptionalism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of plant hybrids relative to line breeding types is generally associated with higher yields, better adaptation, and improved yield stability. In bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), however, a broad commercial success for hybrids has not been accomplished until now largely due to the low efficiency of hybrid grain production, which is highly attributable to its self-pollinating nature. To better understand how hybrid wheat grains can be produced more effectively, we investigated the influence of synchronized flowering between female (i.e. male-sterile) lines and their male cross-pollinator lines as well as of the duration of flowering on hybrid grain production. We found that synchronization of flowering in combination with the longest possible temporal overlap had the largest positive effect on hybrid grain production. However, despite sufficient spatial and temporal synchronization of flowering, we also found that some female lines had lower hybrid grain set than others, suggesting genetic differences in female floral receptivity. To better assess female receptivity, we established a new phenotyping scale of male-sterile wheat flowers that provides the floral basics for effective cross-pollination. Applying this scale in our field and greenhouse trials revealed that better performing female lines remained longer in the pollen-receptive phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mosquitoes are important drivers of infectious diseases transmission, with Anopheles mosquitoes being responsible of malaria transmission. In Cambodia, where malaria is prevalent in forested regions, understanding the ecology of these vectors is crucial. This study aimed to investigate the abundance, distribution, seasonal patterns, biting behaviour of Anopheles mosquitoes, and prevalence of Plasmodium, in Mondulkiri province, Northeastern Cambodia. Methods: Conducted in 9 sites, seven in forested and two in neighbouring villages, over one year, the collection of Anopheles mosquitoes was made hourly for a 72-h period every month, using a human-baited double net trap. Each mosquito was collected using a mouth-aspirator and identified morphologically, and screened for the presence of Plasmodium. Results: Primary vectors, including Anopheles baimaii, Anopheles dirus, Anopheles maculatus, and Anopheles minimus, constituted 11.1% of all female mosquitoes, while 12 secondary vector species represented 29.4% of the overall collection. Anopheles species were more prevalent during the late rainy season (August to November), with year-round activity observed. Primary vectors were predominantly found in forest sites, while other vector species were found in both village and forest environments. Notably, primary vectors exhibited a preference for nocturnal biting, yet a significant proportion (19.2%) displayed daytime activity, highlighting a potential risk of daytime malaria transmission. Among 5,056 Anopheles specimens tested, only 36 Plasmodium spp.-infected samples were detected, mainly in forest sites (94%), and in specimens collected at night. This study provides essential insights into the ecology of Anopheles in Mondulkiri Forest. Conclusions: The identification of primary and secondary vectors, their seasonal dynamics, and biting behaviour contribute to enhances our understanding of malaria transmission risks in these areas, guiding future strategies toward effective and context-specific control measures, while stressing the need for individual protection during daytime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Every cell in the body has a biological sex. The expansion of aging research to investigate female- and male-specific biology heralds a major advance for human health. Unraveling and harnessing mechanistic etiologies of sex differences may reveal new diagnostics and therapeutics for the aging brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This essay introduces, develops, and appraises the mitonuclear compatibility species concept (MCSC), identifying advantages and limitations with respect to alternative species concepts. While the consensus amongst most philosophers of biology is that (kind) essentialism about species is mistaken, and that species at most have relational essences, we appeal to the MCSC to defend thoroughgoing intrinsic essentialism. Namely, the doctrine that species have fully intrinsic essences and, thus, are natural kinds (of sorts), while allowing that species aren't categorically distinct. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first decades of the twentieth century saw the rise of an elite class of Chinese scientists who were educated in Europe and North America and occupied positions of authority in China. Historians of science have used the concept of scientific nationalism to frame the phenomenon and discuss how patriotism had motivated Chinese scientists to produce modern science in order to strengthen their nation. This article focuses on the logistics of science, which can help conceptualize modern Chinese science as not only a situated knowledge but also a broad, distilled context of "pure" transactional value – that of naming, displaying, and managing animals and epizootic diseases. Through the lens of "animals" as an emerging scientific category, the article examines how conceptual and epistemological shifts resulted from new urban, curatorial, and scientific practices, all of which transformed animals into an object of expert analysis in Republican China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In 2001, two genes that code for enzymes were found in the fruit fly. These genes make enzymes that eat slightly different types of substrates. DICER1, the gene that is found in humans, is very important for healthy human growth. This enzyme works in a number of ways, such as blocking RNA, fixing DNA damage, and fighting viruses. DICER is also involved at the protein level in several human diseases. The pleuro-pulmonary blastoma is likely the most serious of these. A lot of research has been conducted to find out all of DICER1's functions and how they relate to both cancer-causing and non-cancerous illnesses. This enzyme is found all over the body, which makes it a great target for nanotechnology-based treatments and drug repurposing. In 2001, two enzyme-encoding genes were recognized in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. The genetic material, labeled Dicer-1 and Dicer-2, encodes ribonuclease-type enzymes with slightly diverse target substrates. The human orthologue is DICER1. It is a gene, which has been positioned on chromosome 14q32.13. It contains 27 exons, which are linking the two enzyme domains. DICER1 is found in all organ systems. It has been proved that it is paramount in human development. The protein determined by DICER1 is a ribonuclease (RNase). This RNase belongs to the RNase III superfamily, formally known as 'endoribonuclease'. It has been determined that the function of RNase III proteins is set to identify and degrade double-stranded molecules of RNA. DICER1 is a vital "housekeeping" gene. The multi-domain enzyme is key for small RNA processing. This enzyme functions in numerous pathways, including RNA interference paths, DNA damage renovation, and response to viruses. At the protein level, DICER is also involved in several human diseases, of which the pleuro-pulmonary blastoma is probably the most egregious entity. Numerous studies have determined the full range of DICER1 functions and the corresponding relationship to tumorigenic and non-neoplastic diseases. In fact, genetic mutations (somatic and germline) have been detected in DICER1 and are genetically associated with at least two clinical syndromes: DICER1 syndrome and GLOW syndrome. The ubiquity of this enzyme in the human body makes it an exquisite target for nanotechnology-supported therapies and repurposing drug approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Rice false smut (RFS) is a major threat to rice productivity, and disease-resistant varieties are crucial as chemical control is ineffective. This study explored how the biological features of Ustilaginoidea virens affect its pathogenicity. The genetic diversity of 86 isolates was analyzed, and tolerant rice varieties were identified. Results showed different growth rates, sporulation and spore germination levels among isolates. For sporulation and spore germination, there was no correlation between the mycelium growth rate and pathogenicity. The genetic structure of U. virens is complex. Pathogenicity impacts its differentiation. Most rice varieties are susceptible. Overall, rice's tolerance to U. virens is poor and needs more study. Rice false smut (RFS) is pervasive and has emerged as the primary disease affecting rice productivity. Due to the lack of effective chemical control, disease-resistant varieties are the primary method of managing the disease. This study aimed to investigate the influence of biological characteristics such as hyphal growth rate, spore production and germination ability on the pathogenicity of Ustilaginoidea virens. The genetic diversity of 86 U. virens isolates was analyzed, and the tolerant varieties were identified using Rep-PCR molecular markers. The results indicated that among the U. virens isolates analyzed, about 31, 27 and 28 strains exhibited fast, medium and slow mycelium growth rates, respectively. Among the U. virens isolates analyzed, about 33, 27 and 26 strains exhibited strong, medium and weak sporulation abilities, respectively. In addition, among the U. virens isolates analyzed, about 29, 30 and 27 strains exhibited strong, medium and weak spore germination, respectively. No significant correlation was noted between mycelium growth rate and pathogenicity, but sporulation ability, spore germination ability and liquid culture were positively correlated (p < 0.05). Moreover, the genetic structure of U. virens was diverse and complex. There was a significant correlation between the genetic differentiation and pathogenicity of U. virens in Heilongjiang Province, China, with a maximum coefficient of 0.1786 and a minimum coefficient of 0.0129 between Harbin and Suihua, but no significant correlation was found with gene groups or geographical regions. The study found that genes and geographical population variation were primarily within the population, with 95.63% and 4.37% variation (p > 0.05), respectively, while pathogenicity population variation was mainly within the population, with 86.08% and 13.92% variation (p > 0.05), respectively. Pathogenicity had a significant effect on the differentiation of U. virens. Most rice varieties were susceptible, with 3 resistant, 8 moderately resistant, 9 moderately susceptible, 8 susceptible and 12 highly susceptible to RFS disease. Collectively, these results indicate that the tolerance of rice against U. virens is poor, which merits further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxygen (O 2)-controlled cell culture has been pivotal in studying mammalian mechanisms of O 2 sensing, regulation, and utilization. We posit, however, that O 2 -controlled cell culture is paradoxically not controlling O 2. There is overwhelming evidence that the pericellular O 2 is lower than the surrounding gas phase due to cellular O 2 consumption. Standard hypoxic cell culture is at high risk of inducing pericellular anoxia. We discuss the implications of poor O 2 control for cellular O 2 regulation mechanisms, bioenergetics, and redox signaling. We also highlight the evidence of frequent under-oxygenation in standard (i.e. , normoxic) cell culture. This issue has been largely overlooked because strategies to control pericellular O 2 have been lacking. Here, we propose a framework to control pericellular O 2 based on our recent investigation into the nature of the gas/pericellular O 2 gradient. Implementing this framework into standard practice will unlock quantitative O 2 control in vitro , improving our ability to understand the role of O 2 in biology. [Display omitted] • Summarizes challenges with oxygen-related cell culture with emphasis on underoxygenation of cultures in physoxia or hypoxia. • Highlights the risk of inducing pericellular anoxia with 1% oxygen cell culture. • Discuss the implications of poor oxygen control on cellular O2 regulation mechanisms, bioenergetics, and redox signaling. • Proposes and updated methodology on best practices for oxygen-controlled cell culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in leveraging Scientific Machine Learning (SciML) techniques to address challenges in solving Partial Differential Equations (PDEs). This study focuses on forecasting the growth of microbial populations in soil using a novel numerical methodology, the Physics-Informed Neural Network (PINN). This approach is crucial in overcoming the inherent challenges associated with the general unculturability of soil bacteria. PINNs can be used to model the growth of bacterial and fungal populations, considering environmental factors like temperature, solar radiation, air humidity, soil hydration status, and external weather conditions. In this paper, some stability issues related to the mathematical model have been analyzed. Moreover, by utilizing field data and applying equations that describe the biological mechanisms of microbial growth, a PINN was trained to predict the development of the microbiota over time. The results demonstrate that the use of PINNs for studying microbial growth and evolution is a promising tool for enhancing agriculture, optimizing cultivation processes, and facilitating efficient resource management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aging is a complex and multifaceted process involving many epigenetic alterations. One key area of interest in aging research is the role of histone modifications, which can dynamically regulate gene expression. Here, we conducted a pan-tissue analysis of the dynamics of seven key histone modifications during human aging. Our histone-specific age prediction models showed surprisingly accurate performance, proving resilient to experimental and artificial noise. Simulation experiments for comparison with DNA methylation age predictors revealed competitive performance. Moreover, gene set enrichment analysis uncovered several critical developmental pathways for age prediction. Different from DNA methylation age predictors, genes known to be involved in aging biology are among the most important ones for the models. Last, we developed a pan-tissue pan-histone age predictor, suggesting that age-related epigenetic information is degenerated across the epigenome. This research highlights the power of histone marks as input for creating robust age predictors and opens avenues for understanding the role of epigenetic changes during aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The desert teak defoliator, Patialus tecomella Pajni, Kumar and Rose, 1991 is redescribed for the first time with habitus images, morphometric details and images of diagnostic characters. Tecomella undulata, an endangered desert forest plant, is frequently and severely attacked by a notorious curculionid pest, P. tecomella, throughout its range in arid and semi-arid areas of India. A DNA barcode was obtained and reported for molecular identification using cytochrome oxidase I (COI). Observations were made on the biology of the species: egg period 4–6 days, larval development period 10–12 days, pupal period 3–6 days and adult longevity 11–13 days. The total lifespan was 28–37 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We examined how a variety of different early-life stressors affect disease biology and health. • We also investigated the extent to which these associations differed for males vs. females. • Different classes of early-life adversity had varying associations with biomarkers and health outcomes; these associations also differed by sex. • The effects of early-life adversity on disease-relevant biomarkers and adulthood health outcomes appear to be both sex- and stressor-specific. Although early adversity is now recognized as a major public health concern, it remains unclear if the effects of early-life stressors on disease biology and health differ by sex or stressor type. Because childhood stressors often covary, examining whether such stressors typically occur together (e.g., cumulative adversity) or in distinct multivariate patterns is needed to determine if and how different life stressors uniquely affect disease biology and health. To investigate, we conducted latent class analyses (LCA) to identify clusters of adults experiencing multiple childhood stressors (N = 2,111, M age = 53.04, 54.8% female) in the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) Study. We then tested how latent stressor exposure groups, and individual stressors, related to 25 biomarkers of inflammation, metabolism, and stress, and 20 major health conditions. Multivariate effect sizes were estimated using Mahalanobis's D. Optimal LCA models yielded three female (Low-, Moderate-, and High-Stress) and two male (Low- and High-Stress) stressor exposure classes. The High-Stress classes had greater inflammation (male: D = 0.43; female: D = 0.59) and poorer metabolic health (male: D = 0.32–0.33; female: D = 0.32–0.47). They also had more cardiovascular (male: HR = 1.56 [1.17, 2.07]; female: HR = 1.97 [1.50, 2.58]), cancer (male: HR = 2.41 [1.52, 3.84]; female: HR = 2.51 [1.45, 4.35]), metabolic (male: HR = 1.54 [1.16, 2.03]; female: HR = 2.01 [1.43, 2.83]), thyroid (male: HR = 3.65 [1.87, 7.12]; female: HR = 2.25 [1.36, 3.74]), arthritis (male: HR = 1.81 [1.30, 2.54]; female: HR = 1.97 [1.41, 2.74]), and mental/behavioral health problems (male: HR = 2.62 [1.90, 3.62]; female; HR = 3.67 [2.72, 4.94]). Moreover, stressors were related to these outcomes in a sex- and stressor-specific manner. Childhood adversity portends worse biological health and elevated risk for many major health problems in a sex- and stressor-specific manner. These findings advance stress theory, and may help inform precision interventions for managing stress and enhancing resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grapevine cultivation has important threats, being viral disorders one of the most extended among the disorders of biotic origin. The Vitis genus hosts many viruses. Although most of them are largely unknown, the focus is placed on a few that produce significant effects in a global scenario. Those viruses are Arabis mosaic virus (ArMV), Grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLV), Grapevine fleck virus (GFkV), and Grapevine leafroll-associated viruses 1 and 3 (GLRaV-1 and -3), which cause the viral disorders arabis, fanleaf, fleck, and leafroll respectively. Due to their worldwide distribution and/or the economic impact they cause on the crop, they are included in different certification schemes. That consideration has motivated the development of many studies and the record of their effects. This chapter delves into the current understanding of those viral organisms and into the disorders they cause in the grapevine. It aims to bring together the current knowledge at the biological, genetic, and cytopathological levels, highlighting the deep knowledge achieved on some aspects as the further need for research into others. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for active research and legislation actualization due to the continuous emergence of new viral strains and species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychiatric diagnoses do not cleanly map onto specific biological mechanisms or clinical outcomes, limiting progress towards uncovering their biology and developing more effective treatments. Reliance on classical case–control comparisons of group means is a major reason for limited progress in the field. Analytic methods for characterizing biological and behavioral variability across individuals are revealing the substantial heterogeneity that characterizes psychiatric illness. Despite decades of research, we lack objective diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers of mental health problems. A key reason for this limited progress is a reliance on the traditional case–control paradigm, which assumes that each disorder has a single cause that can be uncovered by comparing average phenotypic values of patient and control samples. Here, we discuss the problematic assumptions on which this paradigm is based and highlight recent efforts that seek to characterize, rather than minimize, the inherent clinical and biological variability that underpins psychiatric populations. Embracing such variability is necessary to understand pathophysiological mechanisms and develop more targeted and effective treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise of research. The diversity of North American columbine species likely resulted from a radiation promoted by pollinators. Despite previous studies involving plant-pollinator interactions, pollinators have been documented for less than half the 25 North American species, and discussions of floral syndromes have focused on nectar-collecting pollinators. Methodology. We performed pollination fieldwork in the western United States and complementary studies on the living collections in the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna, Austria. We report floral visitors, floral traits, anthesis patterns, and tests for stigmatic receptivity and/or self-pollination. Our aim was to contribute critical empirical data on the pollination biology of seven North American Aquilegia species displaying different floral syndromes, with particular attention to secondary pollinator activity. Pivotal results. Three species, A. brevistyla , A. flavescens , and A. laramiensis , are pollinated by pollen- and/or nectar-collecting bees. Aquilegia eximia and A. formosa exhibit mixed hummingbird-bee pollination systems. Aquilegia chrysantha is a generalist and pollinated by hawkmoths, hummingbirds, and pollen-collecting insects, whereas A. scopulorum possibly has a mixed hawkmoth-bee pollination system. All species were also visited by smaller bees, flies, and other occasional insects. Like other Aquilegia species, A. laramiensis appears to be self-fertile. Aquilegia chrysantha is partially protogynous, whereas preliminary results for A. formosa and A. eximia may indicate adichogamy. Conclusions. Coupled with previous studies, our observations confirm that North American Aquilegia species, despite their characterization into specific floral syndromes, are not always limited to a single pollinator type but are often visited by additional species or mixed communities of nectar- and pollen-collecting animals. The impact of the different pollinators on plant fitness remains to be tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biology and art have been linked throughout history. Early scientists, such as Leonardo de Vinci and John James Audubon, used sketches and painting to document their findings. Even early hominids left evidence of their world through cave art. Histology, the microscopic study of tissues and cells, relies on defining shape and spatial relationships between landmarks within cells and tissues. When looking at a microscopic slide a scientist focuses on form, structure, and complex relationships, while an artist focuses on patterns, colors, and intricate designs. To a biologist, a slide of stained cartilage displays as a tissue with small groups of cells, but to an artist it may resemble islands in a blue ocean. Learning how to use artistic details in combination with scientific concepts can help students better characterize and recognize tissues. Our project brings together two populations of college students to investigate the use of drawing as a learning tool. Senior biology majors received instruction on how to draw, paint, and recognize shape, form, and color from senior-level art students. Our approach provides an opportunity for students to collaborate with each other and with community members through the production of an interactive display for the University of Louisiana Monroe's (ULM) Museum of Natural History. Through metacognitive student responses, we propose that the inclusion of art peer instruction increases student performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to nature can improve mental health and cognitive abilities, while creating enhanced engagement with biological course material through interactions with organisms and ecosystems. Remote biology education was suddenly implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic at many universities, and such distance education continues to provide broadened opportunities for active learning through hands-on lab and field activities. Remote science activities require explicit conversations and student training to address novel, off-campus safety issues. Here, we present inclusive approaches to safety instruction for incorporation into any biological undergraduate course. Remote lab learning not only develops students' skills and self-efficacy in performing biology, but it also engages students in course content and stimulates their interest in observation-based research. This emphasis on safety will extend scientific practice into students' lives while reducing risk during laboratory and field activities and afterward The safety considerations outlined here are designed to consider a global and diverse student population and will apply to a multitude of active-learning lab or field activities performed remotely by students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the origins of novel complex traits, the evolutionary transitions they enabled, and how those shaped the subsequent course of evolution, are all foundational objectives of evolutionary biology. Yet how developmental systems may transform to yield the first eye, limb, or placenta remains poorly understood. Seminal work by Courtney Clark-Hachtel, David Linz, and Yoshinori Tomoyasu published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences in 2013 used the origins of insect wings - one of the most impactful innovations of animal life on Earth - to provide both a case study and a new way of thinking of how novel complex traits may come into being. This paradigm-setting study not only transformed the way we view insect wings, their origins, and their affinities to other morphological structures; even more importantly, it created entryways to envision innovation as emerging gradually, not somehow divorced from ancestral homology, but through it via the differential modification, fusion, and elaboration of ancestral component parts. In a conceptual universe of descent with modification , where everything new must ultimately emerge from the old, this work thereby established a powerful bridge connecting ancestral homology and novelty through a gradual process of innovation, sparking much creative and groundbreaking work to follow since its publication just a little over a decade ago. • Innovation gradients connect descent with modification to the initiation and elaboration of novel traits. • The origin of true wings on the second and third thoracic segment was initiated by the merger of ancestral notal and pleural tissues (red arrows within green). • Homologous tissues in the first thoracic segment (blue) or the abdomen (red) also produced a great diversity of structures in their respective domains (e.g. prothoracic horns in dung beetles, gin traps in red flour beetles). • In contrast, superficially similar head innovations do not rely on wing related tissues and instead reused and repurposed embryonic head patterning genes at later developmental stages. Yet here, too, innovation is guided by ancestral homologies, rather than somehow occurring in their absence. [Display omitted] • Understanding the origins of novelties is a key objective of evolutionary biology. • Work by Clark-Hachtel et al. revised how we view the origins of insect wings. • Revised role of ancestral homology in the genesis of novelty. • Sparked much groundbreaking work since its publication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sustainable use of wildlife is foundational to the success of the North American model of wildlife conservation. Harvest management often is shaped through both species biology and public desires. The long timespan it takes males of most ungulate species to reach peak weapon size has created a situation in harvest management in which harvest strategies cannot prioritize both generous hunter opportunity and opportunities to pursue large‐weaponed males; therefore, current harvest paradigms prioritize one at the expense of the other. In contrast to other species, pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) attain the majority of their peak horn size early in life. The rapid development of horns relative to their age may allow for liberal harvest without sacrificing the opportunity for hunters to harvest males with large horns. We evaluated the influence of sex ratios and average age of harvested males on the average horn size of harvested male pronghorn from 2019 to 2022 in 9 hunt areas in Wyoming, USA. Although mean age of harvested males was negatively affected by rate of harvest, increases in mean age at harvest led to only slight increases in mean horn size (i.e., a 1‐year increase in mean age increased mean horn size by 2.1 cm [~1 inch]). The proportion of the harvest composed of large‐horned males was not influenced by mean age of harvest or sex ratio of the population. Based on simulated populations, increasing harvest led to an increase in the number of large‐weaponed pronghorn in the harvest—a relationship that existed for bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) and elk (Cervus canadensis) but only at low to moderate rates of harvest. The comparatively young age that pronghorn attain near‐peak horn size alleviates what is otherwise a tradeoff between hunter opportunity and managing for large horn size that is evident in management of other ungulate species. Though rarely a reality in management for large ungulates, for pronghorn, liberal harvest may be possible while still providing opportunity to harvest males with large horns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several African studies have focused on the clinical features of lupus in black skin, yet the immunological, biological, and imaging profile of the disease remains poorly described in Côte d'Ivoire. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiological, clinical, paraclinical and evolutionary aspects of lupus patients followed at the Dermatology Department of a University Hospital. Methods: This was a cross-sectional, retrospective study of patients received at the dermatology and venereology department of a university hospital over a six-year period. The diagnosis was based on the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR)/American College of Rheumatology (ACR) classification criteria. Results: We included 72 lupus patients. The sex ratio was 9/1 (female-to-male) and the mean age was 37.9 years. Mucocutaneous manifestations were noted in 66% of the patients and were dominated by discoid lupus (88.9%). Rheumatological involvement was the most common extra-dermatological manifestation (21.8%). The main antibodies found were AAN (73.19%), anti-DNAn (45.8%), and anti-Sm Ac (27.8%). The main treatments used were hydroxychloroquine (98%), corticosteroids (37.5%), immunosuppressants (47.2%), and sun protection. Progression was favorable in 37.5%, and 51.2% of the patients were lost to follow-up. Conclusion: Lupus erythematosus is a rare pathology at the dermatology department, with a female predominance. Its main treatment is hydroxychloroquine, and many patients are lost to follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The data presented at the 9th International Murnau Conference on September 18–21, 2024, the largest recurring structural biology meeting in Central Europe, illustrated the thriving state of the structural biology community. This is largely attributed to the ground-breaking developments over the last decade, which were intensely discussed during the meeting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mature splenic B‐cell lymphomas are an enigmatic group of lymphoid neoplasms that have long caused significant difficulty for the practicing pathologist due to overlapping diagnostic features among entities and the decreasing availability of splenic tissue for assessment. While some entities have highly characteristic and specific clinicopathological features (e.g. hairy cell leukaemia), others are substantially more difficult to recognise (e.g. splenic diffuse red pulp lymphoma). At the same time, classification systems have been evolving, resulting in multiple changes to the boundaries among these entities and even the existence of some entities in their own right. Moreover, unbiased multi‐omic interrogation (whole genome/transcriptome sequencing, methylome) of the splenic B‐cell lymphomas over the past decade has given us significant insights into the underling biology of these neoplasms. We present a clinicopathological perspective on the historical, current and future state of the diagnosis and classification of splenic B‐cell lymphomas integrating multi‐omic data and highlighting areas of focus for the field in order to continue to strive to improve patient outcomes through accurate diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PEG10 is a retroelement-derived Mart-family gene that is necessary for placentation and has been implicated in neurological disease. PEG10 resembles both retrotransposon and retroviral proteins and forms virus-like particles (VLPs) that can be purified using iodixanol ultracentrifugation. It is hypothesized that formation of VLPs is crucial to the biological roles of PEG10 in reproduction and neurological health. Here, we describe the regulation of PEG10 VLP formation and release in human cells with a role for the related Mart gene RTL8. RTL8 resembles a truncated form of PEG10 that shares homology with the N-terminal gag-like capsid domain. Alone, RTL8 is unable to form VLPs, but was incorporated into PEG10-derived particles. RTL8 co-expression decreased the abundance of PEG10 VLPs and increased intracellular levels of PEG10, suggesting a model where RTL8 inhibits PEG10 VLP formation or release. Consistent with this model, RTL8 bound to the N-terminal domain of PEG10 capsid, and modulation of RTL8 influenced PEG10-derived VLP abundance in naturally producing cells. RTL8 is broadly expressed in many of the same tissues as PEG10, including in human brain. Taken together, these results describe a novel antagonistic relationship between two human retroelement-derived genes and have implications for our understanding of PEG10 biology and disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant contributor to cancer‐related mortality, emphasizing the need for advanced biomarkers to guide treatment. As part of an international consortium, we previously categorized CRCs into four consensus molecular subtypes (CMS1‐CMS4), showing promise for outcome prediction. To facilitate clinical integration of CMS classification in settings where formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) samples are routinely used, we developed NanoCMSer, a NanoString‐based CMS classifier using 55 genes. NanoCMSer achieved high accuracy rates, with 95% for fresh‐frozen samples from the MATCH cohort and 92% for FFPE samples from the CODE cohort, marking the highest reported accuracy for FFPE tissues to date. Additionally, it demonstrated 96% accuracy across a comprehensive collection of 23 RNAseq‐based datasets, compiled in this study, surpassing the performance of existing models. Classifying with only 55 genes, the CMS predictions were still biologically relevant, recognizing CMS‐specific biology upon enrichment analysis. Additionally, we observed substantial differences in recurrence‐free survival curves when comparing CMS2/3 patients in stage III versus II. Probability of recurrence after 5 years increased by 21% in CMS2 and 31% in CMS3 for patients in stage III, whereas this difference was less pronounced for CMS1 and CMS4, with 11% and 10%, respectively. We posit NanoCMSer as a robust tool for subtyping CRCs for both tumor biology and clinical practice, accessible via nanocmser r package (https://github.com/LEXORlab/NanoCMSer) and Shinyapp (https://atorang.shinyapps.io/NanoCMSer). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Myctophids play an essential role in the marine ecosystem, linking the surface to the mesopelagic layer through diel vertical migration, and contributing to carbon sequestration. However, basic knowledge of their biology and distribution is still limited. Here, we described the length and age distribution, growth and otolith morphometrics for one of the most abundant myctophid fish of the Northeast Atlantic, the Krøyer's lantern fish Notoscopelus kroyeri (Malm, 1861). Individuals were sampled opportunistically by pelagic trawls during the International Ecosystem Summer Survey in the Nordic Seas (IESSNS) conducted in July 2020 and 2021. We provide the length–weight and otolith–fish size relationships and the size distribution for 336 N. kroyeri individuals collected along Iceland's south and west shelf, the Iceland Basin, and the Irminger Sea. Fish were primarily distributed along the Reykjanes Ridge and the continental shelf at depths between 0 and 550 m. Three size groups, corresponding to three different age groups, with individuals from 2 to 9 years old, were detected across sampling areas. We found positive allometric growth during both sampling years. Linear regressions were significant between otolith length, width and area, and fish length and weight, with adjusted r2 values ranging between 0.93 and 0.94. This study provides new information on the biology and distribution of one of the most abundant mesopelagic species in south Icelandic and surrounding waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Existing software for comparison of species delimitation models do not provide a (true) metric or distance functions between species delimitation models, nor a way to compare these models in terms of relative clustering differences along a lattice of partitions. Results: Piikun is a Python package for analyzing and visualizing species delimitation models in an information theoretic framework that, in addition to classic measures of information such as the entropy and mutual information [1], provides for the calculation of the Variation of Information (VI) criterion [2], a true metric or distance function for species delimitation models that is aligned with the lattice of partitions. Conclusions: Piikun is available under the MIT license from its public repository (https://github.com/jeetsukumaran/piikun), and can be installed locally using the Python package manager 'pip'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the integration of novel agents in the frontline therapy has primarily impacted upfront therapy of advanced stage classic Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL), this review will outline current management of advanced stage cHL at first line and at progression and relapse, focusing on the biology, clinical features, and therapeutic approaches. Due to S1826, HD21, and ECHELON-1, the first-line treatment of advanced cHL has dramatically changed, with novel agents part of standard frontline therapy. BV-AVD, BrECADD, and Nivo-AVD are now standard first-line regimens for patients with stage III-IV cHL, with improved outcomes compared to historical data in cHL. The addition of BV and PD-1 inhibitors to relapsed/refractory (r/r) cHL chemotherapy regimens improved outcomes in this population. Now, there is a paradigm shift with PD-1 moving into frontline therapy, so new studies to evaluate the role of these novel agents in salvage will be required to determine the optimal salvage approach in r/r cHL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Machine-learning models are key to modern biology, yet models trained on one dataset are often not generalizable to other datasets from different cohorts or laboratories due to both technical and biological differences. Domain adaptation, a type of transfer learning, alleviates this problem by aligning different datasets so that models can be applied across them. However, most state-of-the-art domain adaptation methods were designed for large-scale data such as images, whereas biological datasets are smaller and have more features, and these are also complex and heterogeneous. This Review discusses domain adaptation methods in the context of such biological data to inform biologists and guide future domain adaptation research. We describe the benefits and challenges of domain adaptation in biological research and critically explore some of its objectives, strengths, and weaknesses. We argue for the incorporation of domain adaptation techniques to the computational biologist's toolkit, with further development of customized approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Wild edible plants (WEPs) are neglected and have received little attention despite their significant contributions to the sustenance and livelihoods of rural communities. This study was conducted in the Kofale and Heban-Arsi districts of the Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia, to document the diversity, to assess the most preferred WEPs, their utilization, and threats they face. Methods: The study was conducted in the Kofale and Heban-Arsi districts of the West Arsi Zone of the Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. Data collection took place from February to September 2022 in Kofale and from November 2022 to April 2023 in Heban-Arsi district. To gather ethnobotanical information, the research employed semi-structured interviews, field observations, focus group discussions, and guided field walks. The interviews involved 290 informants who were selected via snowball sampling and systemic random sampling methods. Preference ranking values, direct matrix rankings, and use values (UVs) of documented species were computed. Results: A total of 62 WEPs species belonging to 38 families and 56 genera were identified. The Moraceae family includes 7 species, followed by Fabaceae and Rubiaceae (each 4 species), and Lamiaceae (3 species). Shrub was the dominant growth form (32 species), followed by herbs (13 species). The largest number (24 species) of WEPs was collected from grazing lands/fields, followed by forest habitats (17 species). The most widely used edible plant part was fruit (40 species) and leaf (11 species). Most WEPs were collected for consumption from March to May (30 species), and the majority of the species (48, 77.4%) were utilized in their raw state. A large number of WEP (41 species) were consumed only during periods of food shortage, and the remaining (21 species) were used as staple food supplements. Multiple other uses of WEPs in the study area also reported. Fifty-two species mentioned for medicinal use, and the species that had the highest use value was Cordia africana Lam. (0.9). The direct matrix ranking results indicated that agricultural expansion was a principal threat to the WEPs in the study area. Conclusion: This study indicated that WEPs are widely used during food shortages in the study area, but many WEP species are under threat due to growing pressure from various anthropogenic factors. Thus, public awareness and community-based management need to be encouraged at all levels to conserve and sustainably use these resources to address food insecurity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polychaete annelids are one of the main components of the oceanic benthos, but little is known about their microbial symbionts. The purpose of this work is to study the microbiome associated with representatives of Terebellides cf. stroemii and to describe their lifestyle in the White Sea. To do this, the worms and their tubes were examined using light and electron microscopy, and the composition of the microbiome was studied by sequencing the hypervariable V4 regions of the 16S rRNA gene. The tubes of Terebellides cf. stroemii are shown to be loose and, most likely, temporary, whereas the worms dig actively into the ground, yet spend part of their time collecting food from the ground surface with the help of tentacles. Bacteria were found neither in integument cells nor in the intestinal epithelium. Phylogenetic and cluster analyses revealed significant differences in the taxonomic composition of the microbiomes of T. cf. stroemii worms from the soil microbiome and allowed us to determine to specific components of the microbiomes of intestines and tentacles, whereas the microbiomes of bottom sediments and worm tubes appeared to be similar. The microbiomes of the tubes are dominated by Pseudomonadota, Desulfobacterota, and Bacteroidota. While the intestines are home to Pseudomonadota, Actinomycetota, Bacillota, CyanobacteriotaChloroflexota, and Planctomycetota, this bacterial community is very different from the microbiomes of both the surrounding sediment and the tentacles. The microbiome of the tentacles of T. cf. stroemii differs significantly from that of the surrounding soil, tube, and intestine, as it contains Pseudomonadota, Bacillota, and Bacteroidota, in addition to a significant number of representatives of the archaeal superfilium DPANN (Diapherotrites, Parvarchaeota, Aenigmarchaeota, Nanoarchaeota, Nanohaloarchaeota) observed in two samples. Modern technologies for studying microbiomes demonstrate the presence of specific communities of microorganisms associated with the study species, with a combination of morphological and molecular methods being promising for studying the microbiomes associated with marine annelids and their functional relationships with the animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]