Biological Principles Research Articles

Using a metacognitive awareness approach to improve perception of the fundamental biological principle – homeostasis

ABSTRACT This study investigates the process of students’ metacognitive learning about homeostasis, a fundamental biological principle. The research aimed to determine how the metacognitive awareness learning approach (MCLA) affects student perceptions of homeostasis. The research participants were 146 Israeli 10th-grade students (ages 15–16) who were divided into two groups: The MCLA group (MCLAG) (n = 92) received guidance according to the MCLA. The control group (CG) (n = 54) did not receive such guidance. Results disclose the contribution of the MCLA to a better understanding of homeostasis, a fundamental biological principle. Quantitative findings indicate higher achievements by students in the intervention group. Qualitative findings showed differential conceptual understandings regarding homeostasis characteristics, as follows: the MCLA distinctively promoted the following characteristics of homeostasis: efficiency, dynamics of a homeostatic process, and environments. Other characteristics, such as coordination and lack of randomness, control regulation, feedback mechanisms, and multi-systems, were partially promoted by the MCLA. Regarding the energy characteristics, however, the students faced significant challenges in understanding the energy element in the context of homeostasis, indicating a potential for future research. We can deduce that the MCLA can potentially promote the students’ understanding of homeostasis. These results may guide teachers to convey fundamental principles in biology more effectively.

Trends and Gaps in the Scientific Literature about the Effects of Nutritional Supplements on Canine Leishmaniosis.

In canine leishmaniosis (CanL), complex interactions between the parasites and the immunological background of the host influence the clinical presentation and evolution of infection and disease. Therefore, the potential use of nutraceuticals as immunomodulatory agents becomes of considerable interest. Some biological principles, mainly derived from plants and referred to as plant-derived nutraceuticals, are considered as supplementation for Leishmania spp. infection. This study provides a systematic review regarding the use of nutraceuticals as a treatment using a text mining (TM) and topic analysis (TA) approach to identify dominant topics of nutritional supplements in leishmaniosis-based research, summarize the temporal trend in topics, interpret the evolution within the last century and highlight any possible research gaps. Scopus® database was screened to select 18 records. Findings revealed an increasing trend in research records since 1994. TM identified terms with the highest weighted frequency and TA highlighted the main research areas, namely "Nutraceutical supports and their anti-inflammatory/antioxidant properties", "AHCC and nucleotides in CanL", "Vit. D3 and Leishmaniosis", "Functional food effects and Leishmaniosis" and "Extract effects and Leishmaniosis". Despite the existing academic interest, there are only a few studies on this issue so far, which reveals a gap in the literature that should be filled.

New generalized metric based on branch length distance to compare B cell lineage trees

The B cell lineage tree encapsulates the successive phases of B cell differentiation and maturation, transitioning from hematopoietic stem cells to mature, antibody-secreting cells within the immune system. Mathematically, this lineage can be conceptualized as an evolutionary tree, where each node represents a distinct stage in B cell development, and the edges reflect the differentiation pathways. To compare these lineage trees, a rigorous mathematical metric is essential. Analyzing B cell lineage trees mathematically and quantifying changes in lineage attributes over time necessitates a comparison methodology capable of accurately assessing and measuring these changes. Addressing the intricacies of multiple B cell lineage tree comparisons, this study introduces a novel metric that enhances the precision of comparative analysis. This metric is formulated on principles of metric theory and evolutionary biology, quantifying the dissimilarities between lineage trees by measuring branch length distance and weight. By providing a framework for systematically classifying lineage trees, this metric facilitates the development of predictive models that are crucial for the creation of targeted immunotherapy and vaccines. To validate the effectiveness of this new metric, synthetic datasets that mimic the complexity and variability of real B cell lineage structures are employed. We demonstrated the ability of the new metric method to accurately capture the evolutionary nuances of B cell lineages.

Echo of extinction: The Ivory-billed Woodpecker's tragic legacy and its impact on scientific integrity

Abstract Among the current surge in extinction rates, exceeding between 100 and 1000 times the prehuman background rate, a multitude of species quietly fade away, largely escaping the notice of our collective awareness. The extinction of only a select few species has the power to captivate public attention, stir emotions, and ignite debates comparable to the case of the ivory-billed woodpecker (Campephilus principalis). Reports purporting a rediscovery of this long-extinct species periodically surface and find their way into peer-reviewed journals, attracting worldwide attention from the public media. This phenomenon persists despite a glaring lack of evidence supporting such an exceptional claim, in disconnect with principles of population biology or even common sense, thereby risking erosion of public trust in the foundations of nature conservancy and the integrity of scientific methodologies in general. The tragic fate of this iconic species therefore holds significance beyond ecology, providing deep insights into extinction and conservation while highlighting the need for refinement of scientific rigor and standards of evidence in the peer review process and beyond.

From Harvest to Healing: The Evolution of Bone Grafts In Oral Implantology

Bone grafts are surgical procedures that involve the transplantation of bone tissue to repair or reconstruct damaged bones. They are commonly used in various medical fields, including dentistry, orthopedics, and particularly within oral and maxillofacial surgery, prosthodontics, and oral radiology, to promote healing and support the integration of implants. This review embarks on a transformative journey through the evolution of bone grafting techniques in oral implantology, beginning with the rudimentary harvesting methods and their inherent limitations. It transitions to modern innovations, spotlighting synthetic and bioengineered materials that enhance biocompatibility and minimize patient morbidity. Key advancements in minimally invasive techniques and guided bone regeneration are meticulously examined, along with the revolutionary impact of 3D imaging and printing technologies on graft customization. The review underscores the synergy between biological principles and cutting-edge technology, illustrating how these breakthroughs not only lead to superior surgical outcomes but also foster improved patient healing and satisfaction. Ultimately, the evolution of bone grafts marks a significant paradigm shift towards more effective, patient-centered strategies in oral implantology. This exploration highlights the pivotal role of advanced bone grafting methods in bolstering osseointegration and ensuring overall implant success, showcasing a commitment to enhancing both clinical efficacy and patient experience for prosthodontists, periodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons,oral radiologists, and dentists alike.

Theory of affective pragmatics under biolinguistics.

This paper introduces a pioneering investigation into affective pragmatics through the perspective of Darwinian Biolinguistics, an interdisciplinary field at the nexus of biological and linguistic principles. Anchored in Darwin's theory of evolution and the latest developments in neurobiology, this study delves into the influence of biological factors---especially those pertaining to the brain's emotional processing on pragmatic communication. The research posits that human emotional responses, inherent in our biological constitution, profoundly influence the usage and interpretation of language in social interactions.

Concomitant Wilms tumor and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease.

Concomitant Wilms tumor (WT) and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is exceedingly rare, presenting a diagnostic and technical challenge to pediatric surgical oncologists. The simultaneous workup and management of these disease processes are incompletely described. We performed a retrospective analysis of patients treated at our institution with concomitant diagnoses of WT and ADPKD. We also review the literature on the underlying biology and management principles of these conditions. We present three diverse cases of concomitant unilateral WT and ADPKD who underwent nephrectomy. One patient had preoperative imaging consistent with ADPKD with confirmatory testing postoperatively, one was found to have contralateral renal cysts intraoperatively with confirmatory imaging post nephrectomy, and one was diagnosed in childhood post nephrectomy. All patients are alive at last follow-up, and the patient with longest follow-up has progressed to end-stage kidney failure requiring transplantation and dialysis in adulthood. All patients underwent germline testing and were found to have no cancer predisposition syndrome or pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants for WT. Concomitant inheritance of ADPKD and development of WT are extremely rare, and manifestations of ADPKD may not present until late childhood or adulthood. ADPKD is not a known predisposing condition for WT. When ADPKD diagnosis is made by family history, imaging, and/or genetic testing before WT diagnosis and treatment, the need for extensive preoperative characterization of cystic kidney lesions in children and increased risk of post-nephrectomy kidney failure warrant further discussion of surgical approach and perioperative management strategies.

Dosimetric calibration of anatomy-specific ultra-high dose rate electron irradiation platform for preclinical FLASH radiobiology experiments.

FLASH radiation therapy (RT) offers a promising avenue for the broadening of the therapeutic index. However, to leverage the full potential of FLASH in the clinical setting, an improved understanding of the biological principles involved is critical. This requires the availability of specialized equipment optimized for the delivery of conventional (CONV) and ultra-high dose rate (UHDR) irradiation for preclinical studies. One method to conduct such preclinical radiobiological research involves adapting a clinical linear accelerator configured to deliver both CONV and UHDR irradiation. We characterized the dosimetric properties of a clinical linear accelerator configured to deliver ultra-high dose rate irradiation to two anatomic sites in mice and for cell-culture FLASH radiobiology experiments. Delivered doses of UHDR electron beams were controlled by a microcontroller and relay interfaced with the respiratory gating system. We also produced beam collimators with indexed stereotactic mouse positioning devices to provide anatomically specific preclinical treatments. Treatment delivery was monitored directly with an ionization chamber, and charge measurements were correlated with radiochromic film measurements at the entry surface of the mice. The setup for conventional dose rate irradiation utilized the same collimation system but at increased source-to-surface distance. Monte Carlo simulations and film dosimetry were used to characterize beam properties and dose distributions. The mean electron beam energies before the flattening filter were 18.8 MeV (UHDR) and 17.7 MeV (CONV), with corresponding values at the mouse surface of 17.2 and 16.2 MeV. The charges measured with an external ion chamber were linearly correlated with the mouse entrance dose. The use of relay gating for pulse control initially led to a delivery failure rate of 20% (±1 pulse); adjustments to account for the linac latency improved this rate to<1/20. Beam field sizes for two anatomically specific mouse collimators (4 × 4 cm2 for whole-abdomen and 1.5 × 1.5 cm2 for unilateral lung irradiation) were accurate within<5% and had low radiation leakage (<4%). Normalizing the dose at the center of the mouse (∼0.75cm depth) produced UHDR and CONV doses to the irradiated volumes with>95% agreement. We successfully configured a clinical linear accelerator for increased output and developed a robust preclinical platform for anatomically specific irradiation, with highly accurate and precise temporal and spatial dose delivery, for both CONV and UHDR irradiation applications.

Common principles of macrophage biology in blood–tissue barriers

AbstractBlood–tissue barriers play crucial roles in specialized tissues such as the central nervous system (CNS), eye, testis, and placenta. Tissue‐resident macrophages in these tissues are indispensable for maintaining tissue homeostasis and responding to pathological conditions. Recent advances in high‐throughput and high‐dimensional single‐cell analysis techniques, coupled with fate‐mapping tools, have revealed a remarkable diversity of tissue‐resident macrophages at the blood–tissue barrier. However, while comprehensive expression profiling has revealed the heterogeneity of macrophages within individual tissues, the commonalities of macrophages across anatomically similar structures like blood–tissue barriers remain poorly understood. This review focuses on the diversity and functional specialization of macrophages in tissues with blood–tissue barriers, highlighting recent insights into their anatomical distribution, developmental origins, phenotypic characteristics, and roles in maintaining tissue homeostasis. These findings may deepen our understanding of macrophage adaptation mechanisms in tissues with blood–tissue barriers, potentially leading to improved therapies for related disorders. Furthermore, examining the similarities and differences of macrophages across tissues may elucidate the molecular underpinnings of tissue‐specific adaptation mechanisms and functional specialization.

GLP-1, GIP, and Glucagon Agonists for Obesity Treatment: A Hunger Perspective.

For centuries, increasingly sophisticated methods and approaches have been brought to bear to promote weight loss. Second only to the Holy Grail of research on aging, the idea of finding a single and simple way to lose weight has long preoccupied the minds of laymen and scientists alike. The effects of obesity are far-reaching and not to be minimized; the need for more effective treatments is obvious. Is there a single silver bullet that addresses this issue without effort on the part of the individual? The answer to this question has been one of the most elusive and sought-after in modern history. Now and then, a miraculous discovery propagates the illusion that a simple solution is possible. Now there are designer drugs that seem to accomplish the task: we can lose weight without effort using mono, dual, and triple agonists of receptors for glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP), and glucagon. There are, however, fundamental biological principles that raise intriguing questions about these therapies beyond the currently reported side-effects. This perspective reflects upon these issues from the angle of complex goal-oriented behaviors, and systemic and cellular metabolism associated with satiety and hunger.

Measuring quantity in ecosystem markets and ecosystem accounts

AbstractThe quantity of ecosystem services produced from land cannot be readily measured at the site level needed for participation in ecosystem markets, or at a regional level needed to create ecosystem accounts. This paper applies biological scaling principles to develop a quantity metric in which areas of ecosystem (extent) scale allometrically to ecosystem services (a capacity measure) according to a scaling exponent defined by the fractal dimension of ecosystem vegetation. A key conclusion of this paper is that the quantity of ecosystem services arising from ecosystem degradation and conservation activities cannot be estimated unless information about the space‐filling properties of vegetation is observed and included in the quantity measurement methodology. The paper demonstrates how remote sensing techniques can be applied to systematically measure ecosystem extent and fractal dimension. It illustrates the economic efficiency and environmental outcome implications of such a quantity metric through comparison with current quantity estimation methods that assume isometric scaling. The quantity metric proposed has potential applications to ecosystem accounting. It enables information currently reported in land accounts to be combined with information reported in ecosystem condition accounts to create ecosystem stock accounts measured in physical units.

Unearthing Shan–shui in the contemporary park: landscape preferences are influenced by archetype

ABSTRACT Archetypes, having both unique metaphysical and neurological underpinnings, are instrumental in forming the human experience of the external world. China, in particular, has demonstrated a rich historical tradition of cultivating and perpetuating Shan–shui aesthetics. Due to the inseparability of Shan–shui archetypes and Shan–shui landscapes, this research proposes that the Chinese population’s preference for such landscapes can be attributed to two factors. First, there is an innate biological affinity for nature to humans. Second, cultural influences establish a subconscious emotional connection to these landscapes. The study employs both qualitative and quantitative methodologies to analyze the contemporary Shan–shui landscapes in the Olympic Forest Park (artificial Shan–shui) and Yuji Island Park (natural Shan–shui). By examining questionnaires in line with biological and cultural principles, the statistical analysis results substantiate a strong preference for the Shan–shui landscape. Through correlation analysis, stepwise multiple regression, and factor analysis, it is demonstrated that, beyond satisfying biological selections, the Shan–shui landscape evokes emotional resonance due to its cultural proximity to the ideal environment shaped by the Shan–shui archetype. Therefore, this study posits that landscape preferences are significantly influenced by the archetype.

Enhancers: A Focus on Synthetic Biology and Correlated Gene Expression.

Enhancers are central for the regulation of metazoan transcription but have proven difficult to study, primarily due to a myriad of interdependent variables shaping their activity. Consequently, synthetic biology has emerged as the main approach for dissecting mechanisms of enhancer function. We start by reviewing simple but highly parallel reporter assays, which have been successful in quantifying the complexity of the activator/coactivator mechanisms at enhancers. We then describe studies that examine how enhancers function in the genomic context and in combination with other enhancers, revealing that they activate genes through a variety of different mechanisms, working together as a system. Here, we primarily focus on synthetic reporter genes that can quantify the dynamics of enhancer biology through time. We end by considering the consequences of having many genes and enhancers within a 'local environment', which we believe leads to correlated gene expression and likely reports on the general principles of enhancer biology.

Stem Life: A Framework for Understanding the Prebiotic-Biotic Transition

Abiogenesis is frequently envisioned as a linear, ladder-like progression of increasingly complex chemical systems, eventually leading to the ancestors of extant cellular life. This “pre-cladistics” view is in stark contrast to the well-accepted principles of organismal evolutionary biology, as informed by paleontology and phylogenetics. Applying this perspective to origins, I explore the paradigm of “Stem Life,” which embeds abiogenesis within a broader continuity of diversification and extinction of both hereditary lineages and chemical systems. In this new paradigm, extant life’s ancestral lineage emerged alongside and was dependent upon many other complex prebiotic chemical systems, as part of a diverse and fecund prebiosphere. Drawing from several natural history analogies, I show how this shift in perspective enriches our understanding of Origins and directly informs debates on defining Life, the emergence of the Last Universal Common Ancestor (LUCA), and the implications of prebiotic chemical experiments.

Positive-strand RNA virus replication organelles at a glance.

Membrane-bound replication organelles (ROs) are a unifying feature among diverse positive-strand RNA viruses. These compartments, formed as alterations of various host organelles, provide a protective niche for viral genome replication. Some ROs are characterised by a membrane-spanning pore formed by viral proteins. The RO membrane separates the interior from immune sensors in the cytoplasm. Recent advances in imaging techniques have revealed striking diversity in RO morphology and origin across virus families. Nevertheless, ROs share core features such as interactions with host proteins for their biogenesis and for lipid and energy transfer. The restructuring of host membranes for RO biogenesis and maintenance requires coordinated action of viral and host factors, including membrane-bending proteins, lipid-modifying enzymes and tethers for interorganellar contacts. In this Cell Science at a Glance article and the accompanying poster, we highlight ROs as a universal feature of positive-strand RNA viruses reliant on virus-host interplay, and we discuss ROs in the context of extensive research focusing on their potential as promising targets for antiviral therapies and their role as models for understanding fundamental principles of cell biology.

Harmonizing Nature, Education, Engineering and Creativity: An Interdisciplinary Educational Exploration of Engineered Living Materials, Artistry and Sustainability Using Collaborative Mycelium Brick Construction.

This study presents an innovative approach to interdisciplinary education by integrating biology, engineering and art principles to foster holistic learning experiences for middle-schoolers aged 11-12. The focus lies on assembling mycelium bricks as engineered living materials, with promising applications in sustainable construction. Through a collaborative group task, children engage in the hands-on creation of these bricks, gaining insights into mycology, biomaterials engineering and artistic expression. The curriculum introduces fundamental concepts of mycelial growth and its potential in sustainable material development. Children actively participate in fabricating 3D forms (negative and positive) using mycelium bricks, thereby gaining practical knowledge in shaping and moulding living materials. This hands-on experience enhances their understanding of biological processes and cultivates an appreciation for sustainable design principles. The group task encourages teamwork, problem-solving and creativity as children collaboratively compose structures using mycelium bricks. Integrating art into the activity adds a creative dimension, allowing participants to explore aesthetic aspects while reinforcing the project's interdisciplinary nature. Conversations about the material's end-of-life and decomposition are framed within the broader context of Nature's cycles, facilitating an understanding of sustainability. This interdisciplinary pedagogical approach provides a model for educators seeking to integrate diverse fields of knowledge into a cohesive and engaging learning experience. The study contributes to the emerging field of nature-inspired education, illustrating the potential of integrating living materials and 3D-understanding activities to nurture a holistic understanding of science, engineering and artistic expression in young learners.

The importance of red aesthetics in dental implants: a systematic review

Introduction: Aesthetics region should be defined as any area to be restored visible in the patient's smile. The charge or immediate function is a prerequisite for the present implant's primary stability in your installation. Thus, to maintain the gingival architecture, understanding biological principles governing is essential to remodeling, as well as alveolar bone soft tissue. The gingival tissues' health, color, and texture are critical to the long-term success and the aesthetic value of treatment. Objective: It was to review the literature and discuss the major factors supporting the red aesthetic excellence before and after the rehabilitation of former regions, and the use of dental implants. Methods: The PRISMA Platform systematic review rules were followed. The search was carried out from March to June 2024 in the Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Scielo, and Google Scholar databases. The quality of the studies was based on the GRADE instrument and the risk of bias was analyzed according to the Cochrane instrument. Results and Conclusion:128 articles were found, 44 articles were evaluated in full and 32 were included and developed in the present systematic review study. Considering the Cochrane tool for risk of bias, the overall assessment resulted in 20 studies with a high risk of bias and 23 studies that did not meet GRADE and AMSTAR-2. Most studies did not show homogeneity in their results, with X2=81.5%&gt;50%. It was concluded RED aesthetics has become a primary factor in the patient's expectations, and the duty of the surgeon's professional knowledge of the fundamental aspects in achieving this aspect. A correct treatment plan to meet the restorative and surgical protocols appropriate, thus being able to achieve satisfactory results is required.

Dynamics Behaviours of Kink Solitons in Conformable Kolmogorov–Petrovskii–Piskunov Equation

The current study introduces the generalised New Extended Direct Algebraic Method (gNEDAM) for producing and examining propagation of kink soliton solutions within the framework of the Conformable Kolmogorov–Petrovskii–Piskunov Equation (CKPPE), which entails conformable fractional derivatives into account. The primary justification around employing conformable derivatives in this study is their special ability to comply with the chain rule, allowing for in the solution of aimed nonlinear model. The CKPPE is a crucial model for a number of disciplines, such as mathematical biology, reaction-diffusion mechanisms, and population increase. CKPPE is transformed into a Nonlinear Ordinary Differential Equation by the proposed gNEDAM, and many kink soliton solutions are found by applying the series form solution. These kink soliton solutions shed light on propagation mechanisms within the framework of the CKPPE model. Furthermore, our research offers multiple graphical depictions that facilitate the examination and analysis of the propagation patterns of the identified kink soliton solutions. Through the integration of mathematical biology and reaction-diffusion principles, our research broadens our comprehension of intricate occurrences in various academic domains.

Deep Learning-Driven Optimization Strategies for Teaching Decisions in Smart Classrooms

With the rapid advancement of information technology, smart classrooms have increasingly become a vital component of modern education. By integrating technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and big data, smart classrooms provide a smart, efficient educational setting for teachers and students. However, the challenge of fully utilizing these technologies to enhance teaching effectiveness in smart classrooms remains unresolved. Existing research has highlighted the significant potential of deep learning in optimizing teaching decisions. However, its application faces challenges, including insufficient integration of technologies and limited effectiveness in practical implementations. The main focus of this study encompasses three parts: firstly, a biological neural network model targeted at optimizing teaching decisions, which emulates the mechanisms of biological neural networks to efficiently optimize teaching decisions; secondly, an active consciousness teaching decision model within smart classroom settings, which merges deep learning with theories of active consciousness to support dynamic, intelligent teaching decisions; and thirdly, a biologically inspired teaching process coordination network in smart classrooms, designed to optimize and coordinate educational processes based on biological principles. Through these investigations, this study provides both theoretical and practical support for optimizing teaching decisions in smart classrooms, offering significant academic value and practical application prospects.

(Invited) Bio-Inspired Time Varying Networks for Novel Computing Primitives

As a result of a hundred million years of evolution, living animals have adapted extremely well to their ecological niche. Such adaptation implies species-specific interactions with their immediate environment by processing sensory cues and responding with appropriate behavior. Understanding how living creatures perform pattern recognition and cognitive tasks is of particular importance for computing architectures: by studying these information pathways refined over eons of evolution, researchers may be able to streamline the process of developing more highly advanced, energy efficient autonomous systems.With the advent of novel electronic and ionic components along with a deeper understanding of information pathways in living species, a plethora of opportunities to develop completely novel information processing avenues are within reach.Basal biological principles are highlighted, including phylogenies, ontogenesis, and homeostasis, with particular emphasis on network topology and dynamics. While in machine learning, system training is performed on virgin networks without any a priori knowledge, the approach proposed here distinguishes itself unambiguously by employing growth mechanisms as a guideline to design novel computing architectures. Within this framework, experiments on low-frequency relaxation type oscillators coupled via complex time-varying networks will be presents. The spatio-temporal development of the network results from a mutual interaction between the oscillator ensemble and the network structure. The blooming and pruning of suddenly appearing conductive bridges and their relation to the synchrony state of the oscillator ensemble will be discussed.