bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inulinase production and mathematical modeling from carob extract by using Aspergillus niger
Authors: Ilgın Merve , Germec Mustafa , Turhan Irfan
Published: October 2019

The main objectives of the study were to produce inulinase from carob extract by Aspergillus niger A42 (ATCC 204447) and to model the inulinase fermentation in the optimum carob extract‐based medium. In the study, carob extract was used as a novel and renewable carbon source in the production of A. niger inulinase. For medium optimization, eight different variables including initial sugar concentration (°Bx), (NH4)2HPO4, MgSO4.7H2O, KH2PO4, NH4NO3, yeast extract, peptone, and ZnSO4.7H2O were employed. After fermentations, optimum medium composition contained 1% yeast extract in 5°Bx carob extract. As a result of the fermentation, the maximum inulinase activity, maximum invertase‐type activity, I/S ratio, maximum inulinase‐ and invertase‐type activity rates, maximum sugar consumption rate, and sugar utilization yield were 1507.03 U/ml, 1552.86 U/ml, 0.97, 175.82 and 323.76 U/ml/day, 13.26 g/L/day, and 98.52%, respectively. Regarding mathematical modeling, the actual inulinase production and sugar consumption data were successfully predicted by Baranyi and Cone models based on the model evaluation and validation results and the predicted kinetic values, respectively. Consequently, this was the first report in which carob extract was used in the production of inulinase as a carbon source. Additionally, the best‐selected models can serve as universal equations in modeling the inulinase production and sugar consumption in shake flask fermentation with carob extract medium.
The importance of teaching clinical anatomy in surgical skills education: Spare the patient, use a sim!
Authors: Clifton William , Damon Aaron , Nottmeier Eric , Pichelmann Mark
Published: October 2019

Anatomical knowledge is a key tenet in graduate medical and surgical education. Classically, these principles are taught in the operating room during live surgical experience. This puts both the learner and the patient at a disadvantage due to environment, time, and safety constraints. Educational adjuncts such as cadaveric courses and surgical skills didactics have been shown to improve resident confidence and proficiency in both anatomical knowledge and surgical techniques. However, the cost‐effectiveness of these courses is a limiting factor and in many cases prevents implementation within institutional training programs. Anatomical simulation in the form of “desktop” three‐dimensional (3D) printing provides a cost‐effective adjunct while maintaining educational value. This article describes the anatomical and patient‐centered approach that led to the establishment of our institution's 3D printing laboratory for anatomical and procedural education. Clin. Anat. 32:124–127, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Properties and Function of the Flexor Hallucis Capsularis Interphalangeus Tendon
Authors: Thomas R. L. , Kuiper Jan H. , Knight Timothy P.
Published: October 2019

Introduction:The fibrocartilagenous plantar plates of the forefoot are biomechanically important, forming the primary distal attachment for the plantar aponeurosis. They are integral to the function of the windlass mechanism in supporting the arches of the foot in gait. Dissection of the cadaveric hallux revealed an organised sagittal thickening of the dorsal side of the flexor hallucis longus (FHL) sheath, which attached the interphalangeal plantar plate to the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) plantar plate. A description of a similar structure was made in 1984 when it was termed the flexor hallucis capsularis interphalangeus (FHCI) – however, it has not been researched since, and we aim to study it further and identify its characteristics.Method:Eight specimens were dissected from four cadavers. Two were stained and examined under magnification in both polarized and non polarized light. The remaining 6 were subjected to micrometer testing of their tensile properties.Results:Both the histological features and mechanical properties were consistent with tendon; with cross sectional area, ultimate tensile strength and stiffness varying between specimens.Conclusions:Based on its location and properties, the FHCI tendon may be involved in limiting dorsiflexion of the first MTP joint and could have clinical relevance in pathological processes around both the first and second MTP joints. Clin. Anat., 33:689–695, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sodium butyrate‐activated TRAF6‐TXNIP pathway affects A549 cells proliferation and migration
Authors: Xiao Xiaoqiang , Xu Yanxuan , Chen Haoyu
Published: October 2019

TNF receptor‐associated factor 6 (TRAF6) promotes the development of human lung cancer through bridging RAS and NF‐kB pathways; on the other hand, thioredoxin‐interacting protein (TXNIP) suppresses the growth of tumors. However, the crosstalk between TRAF6 and TXNIP in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is currently unclear. Here, we found that TXNIP expression induced by sodium butyrate (NaBu) was TRAF6‐dependent. Moreover, TXNIP interacted with TRAF6 via its PPxY motif. Polyubiquitylation analysis with wild‐type or mutant (Cysteine70 to Alanine) of TRAF6 further showed TRAF6 ubiquitylated TXNIP. NaBu reinforced the interaction of TRAF6/TXNIP as well as TXNIP’ polyubiquitylation. Moreover, treated with NaBu, the A549 cells with TRAF6/TXNIP double knockdown showed an enhanced protein expression of E‐cadherin comparing to cells with single gene or negative knockdown. The experimental results of transwell and nude mice xenograft showed that knocking down both TRAF6 and TXNIP in A549 cells affected its migration and proliferation compared to that of single knockdown or negative control cells. On the other hand, TXNIP localization was different depending on the cell types and fused‐tag (eg, FLAG or GFP). Our results revealed TRAF6 regulated the expression and polyubiquitylation of TXNIP in a NaBu‐dependent manner, alleviating tumorigenesis of TRAF6.
Situs inversus Totalis: Always recall the uncommon
Authors: Tsoucalas Gregory , Thomaidis Vasilios , Fiska Aliki
Published: October 2019

Situs inversus totalis has been reported as a rare entity. The detailed knowledge of the human structure and its anatomical variations is of great importance for the daily clinical practice and even more critical in emergency medicine. Such a condition may elude in routine patient evaluation or an urgent interventional procedure, with potentially fatal results.
Lost and found! Tooth fragment reattachment after 8 Mo of trauma
Authors: Mani Kakkunath Sudheesh , Katta Nandini Kumari , Shankar Yelamanchi Ravi , Mandava Deepthi
Published: October 2019

Thorough clinical and radiographic evaluation of patient following orofacial trauma is indispensable for a successful outcome, and when the tooth fragment is available in a good condition, then fragment reattachment is the best choice of treatment.
Review on DFT calculation of s‐triazine‐based carbon nitride
Authors: Zhu Bicheng , Cheng Bei , Zhang Liuyang , Yu Jiaguo
Published: October 2019

To improve the photocatalytic performance of pristine photocatalysts, element doping, construction of composites and fabrication of novel nanostructures are recognized as universal modification methods. These methods have been experimentally verified to be effective in manifold photocatalytic application over various photocatalysts. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation is a powerful and fundamental tool to pinpoint the intrinsic mechanism of the enhanced photocatalytic activity. And it holds the degree of precision ranging from atoms, molecules to unit cells. Herein, recent DFT calculation research progress of modified s‐triazine‐based graphitic carbon nitride (g–C3N4) systems as photocatalysts is summarized. To specify, we collected information of doping site, formation energy, geometric, and electronic properties. We also discussed the synergistic effect of work function, Fermi level and band edge position on the built‐in electric field, transfer route of photogenerated charge carriers and photocatalytic mechanism (traditional type II or direct Z‐scheme heterostructure). Moreover, we analyzed the geometric configuration, band structure, and stability of g–C3N4 nanocluster, nanoribbon, and nanotube. Finally, future perspective in the further theoretical revelation of g–C3N4‐based photocatalysts is proposed.
Ten years of carbon‐based metal‐free electrocatalysts
Authors: Paul Rajib , Dai Quanbin , Hu Chuangang , Dai Liming
Published: October 2019

Since the discovery of the first carbon‐based metal‐free electrocatalysts (C‐MFECs, i.e., N‐doped carbon nanotubes) for the oxygen reduction reaction in 2009, the field of C‐MFECs has grown enormously over the last 10 years. C‐MFECs, as alternatives to nonprecious transition metals and/or precious noble metal‐based electrocatalysts, have been consistently demonstrated as efficient catalysts for oxygen reduction, oxygen evolution, hydrogen evolution, carbon dioxide reduction, nitrogen reduction, and many other (electro‐) chemical reactions. Recent research and development of C‐MFECs have indicated their potential applications in fuel cells, metal‐air batteries, and hydrogen generation through water oxidation as well as electrochemical production of various commodity chemicals, such as ammonia, alcohols, hydrogen peroxide, and other useful hydrocarbons. Further research and development of C‐MFECs would surely revolutionize traditional energy conversion and storage technologies with minimal environmental impact. In this short review article, we summarize the journey of C‐MFECs over the past 10 years with an emphasis on materials development and their structure‐property characterization for applications in fuel cells and metal‐air batteries. Current challenges and future prospects of this emerging field are also discussed.
Shared decision‐making for older adults with cardiovascular disease
Authors: Backman Warren D. , Levine Sharon A. , Wenger Nanette K. , Harold John Gordon
Published: October 2019

Shared decision‐making is appropriate for clinical decisions involving multiple reasonable options, which occur frequently in the cardiovascular care of older adults. The process includes the communication of relevant factual information between the patient and the clinician, elicitation of patient preferences, and a mutual agreement on the best course of action to meet the patient's personal goals. For older adults, there are common challenges and considerations with regard to shared decision‐making, some of which (eg, cognitive impairment) may be biologically linked to cardiovascular disease. There are tools designed to facilitate the shared decision‐making process, known as decision aids, which are broadly effective although have shortcomings when applied to older adults. Novel approaches in clinical research and health systems changes will go some way toward improving shared decision‐making for older adults, but the greatest scope for improvement may be within the grass roots areas of communication skills, interdisciplinary teamwork, and simply asking our patients what matters most.
New‐onset atrial fibrillation predicting for complicating cardiac adverse outcome in scrub typhus infection
Authors: Jang Suk‐Yong , Kang Ki‐Woon , Kim Jun Hyung , Kim Bongyoung , Chin Jung Yeon , Park Sang Hyun , Choi Yu Jeong , Jung Kyung Tae , Lee Seong‐Kyu
Published: October 2019

Background

Scrub typhus is a well‐known infectious disorder of the Asia‐Pacific region. However, adverse cardiac outcomes are an under‐recognized complication of scrub typhus infection, and new‐onset AF has been reported to be a prognostic factor in other, more common infectious diseases. The present study investigated whether new‐onset atrial fibrillation (AF) is significantly associated with 3‐month mortality and adverse cardiac complications in scrub typhus infection.

Methods

We examined data from the National Health Information Database (NHID) which covers nearly the entire population of South Korea, from 2006 to 2016. In total, 233 473 patients diagnosed with scrub typhus infection were selected as study participants. New‐onset AF, acute heart failure (AHF), ischemic heart disease (IHD), and 3‐month mortality were analyzed using a generalized estimating equation model with a Poisson distribution.

Results

Of these, 2402 patients (1%) were diagnosed with new‐onset AF (87.2% were over 60 years of age, 43.3% were male). Those with new‐onset AF were more likely to have underlying cardiovascular disease compared to those without new‐onset AF. After being adjusted for demographic factors and comorbidities, those with new‐onset AF had a higher incidence risk of concurrent AHF (4.1‐fold) and IHD (1.9‐fold) compared with those without new‐onset AF. In particular, the 3‐month mortality was also significantly associated with new‐onset AF (1.3‐fold), concurrent AHF (2.4‐fold), and IHD (13.7‐fold).

Conclusions

New‐onset AF was significantly associated with 3‐month mortality and concurrent AHF and IHD. Therefore, new‐onset AF could be a poor prognostic factor for 3‐month mortality and cardiac complications in scrub typhus infection.
Improving access to cancer clinical trials by reducing the financial burden
Authors: Winkfield Karen M.
Published: October 2019

Cancer clinical trials are vital to improving cancer care, but participation may add an additional financial burden for individuals and families already struggling to bear the high cost of cancer care. Finding sustainable ways to reduce financial toxicity, particularly for low‐ and middle‐income patients, may help to improve clinical trial recruitment and retention.
Health care utilization and steroid‐refractory toxicities from immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Wang Laura X. , Quach Henry T. , Moodabigil Nikil V. , Davis Elizabeth J. , Sosman Jeffrey A. , Dusetzina Stacie B. , Johnson Douglas B.
Published: October 2019

Background

Anti–programmed death protein 1 (anti–PD‐1) agents have transformed the treatment of advanced melanoma and other cancers, but the rates of steroid‐refractory toxicities and health care utilization are not well described. This study assessed these endpoints in patients with melanoma treated with anti–PD‐1 with or without ipilimumab.

Methods

This study retrospectively evaluated 344 patients with metastatic melanoma treated with anti–PD‐1 or a combination of ipilimumab and nivolumab at Vanderbilt University Medical Center from 2009 to 2018. The incidence, types, grades, management, and outcomes of immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) and hospitalizations for irAEs and disease progression were assessed.

Results

Patients on combination therapy were more likely to develop irAEs than those on monotherapy (72% vs 37%; P < .001) and were more likely to require systemic steroids (61% vs 20%; P < .001), steroid dose re‐escalation (23% vs 6%; P < .001), and second‐line immunosuppressive use (17% vs 2%; P < .001) and to suffer high‐dose steroid–refractory toxicities (23% vs 3%; P < .001). Combination‐treated patients were more likely to have any hospitalization (32% vs 7%; P < .001) or multiple hospitalizations for irAEs (11% vs 3%; P = .001) and had a longer average time of hospitalization (mean, 1.92 vs 0.62 days; P = .002). Among 176 hospitalizations related to disease progression in patients who died during evaluable follow‐up, 69% occurred within the 90 days before death. Early hospitalizations for disease‐related reasons portended a very poor prognosis (median time from admission to death, 58 days).

Conclusions

Patients treated with a combination of ipilimumab and nivolumab had higher rates of hospitalization and steroid‐refractory toxicities than those treated with anti–PD‐1 monotherapy. Disease‐associated hospitalizations were similar between the 2 groups, portended a poor prognosis, and mostly occurred in the last months of life.
In Situ Visualization of Telomere Length, Telomere Elongation, and TERT Expression in Single Cells
Authors: Ravindranathan Ajay , Diolaiti Morgan E. , Cimini Beth A. , Stohr Bradley A.
Published: October 2019

Telomerase plays a critical role in cancer and aging by adding hexa‐nucleotide repeats to the ends of telomeres and extending the cellular proliferative lifespan. The very low level of telomerase expression in most cell populations and the difficulty of detecting telomere elongation in single cells have limited the study of telomerase expression and function in individual cells of a heterogeneous population. The method described in this article combines single‐molecule detection (RNAscope) of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) with our previously described TSQ1 assay for in situ monitoring of telomere extension, thereby enabling detection of TERT expression, telomere length, and telomere elongation in single cells and providing a unique approach for studying the factors that regulate telomere elongation by telomerase. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Basic Protocol 1: TSQ1 lentivirus production

Basic Protocol 2: TSQ1 lentiviral infection and plating

Basic Protocol 3: RNAscope analysis

Basic Protocol 4: TSQ1 PNA‐FISH detection
Small Molecule Interactome Mapping by Photo‐Affinity Labeling (SIM‐PAL) to Identify Binding Sites of Small Molecules on a Proteome‐Wide Scale
Authors: Flaxman Hope A. , Miyamoto David K. , Woo Christina M.
Published: October 2019

Identification and characterization of small molecule–protein interactions is critical to understanding the mechanism of action of bioactive small molecules. Photo‐affinity labeling (PAL) enables the capture of noncovalent interactions for enrichment and unbiased analysis by mass spectrometry (MS). Quantitative proteomics of the enriched proteome reveals potential interactions, and MS characterization of binding sites provides validation and structural insight into the interactions. Here, we describe the identification of the protein targets and binding sites of a small molecule using small molecule interactome mapping by PAL (SIM‐PAL). Cells are exposed to a diazirine‐alkyne‐functionalized small molecule, and binding interactions are covalently captured upon UV irradiation. An isotopically coded, acid‐cleavable biotin azide handle is attached to the conjugated proteins using copper‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne cycloaddition. Biotin‐labeled proteins are enriched for on‐bead digestion and quantitative proteomics. Acid cleavage of the handle releases the bead‐bound conjugated peptides for MS analysis and isotope‐directed assignment of the binding site. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Basic Protocol 1: Generation of a small molecule–conjugated protein sample following treatment of live cells

Alternate Protocol: Generation of a small molecule–conjugated protein sample following treatment of cell lysate

Basic Protocol 2: Copper‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne cycloaddition functionalization and enrichment of labeled peptides

Support Protocol 1: Synthesis of acid‐cleavable, isotopically coded biotin picolyl azide handle

Support Protocol 2: Monitoring enrichment by immunoblotting

Basic Protocol 3: Mass spectrometry analysis to identify interacting proteins and conjugation sites
Predominant east to west colonizations across major oceanic barriers: Insights into the phylogeographic history of the hydroid superfamily Plumularioidea, suggested by a mitochondrial DNA barcoding marker
Authors: Moura Carlos J. , Collins Allen G. , Santos Ricardo S. , Lessios Harilaos
Published: October 2019

We provide preliminary insights into the global phylogeographic and evolutionary patterns across species of the hydrozoan superfamily Plumularioidea (Cnidaria: Hydrozoa). We analyzed 1,114 16S sequences of 198 putative species of Plumularioidea collected worldwide. We investigated genetic connections and divergence in relation to present‐day and ancient biogeographic barriers, climate changes and oceanic circulation. Geographical distributions of most species are generally more constrained than previously assumed. Some species able to raft are dispersed widely. Human‐mediated dispersal explains some wide geographical ranges. Trans‐Atlantic genetic connections are presently unlikely for most of the tropical‐temperate species, but were probably more frequent until the Miocene–Pliocene transition, before restriction of the Tethys Sea and the Central American Seaway. Trans‐Atlantic colonizations were predominantly directed westwards through (sub)tropical waters. The Azores were colonized multiple times and through different routes, mainly from the east Atlantic, at least since the Pliocene. Extant geminate clades separated by the Isthmus of Panama have predominantly Atlantic origin. Various ancient colonizations mainly directed from the Indian Ocean to the Atlantic occurred through the Tethys Sea and around South Africa in periods of lower intensity of the Benguela upwelling. Thermal tolerance, population sizes, dispersal strategies, oceanic currents, substrate preference, and land barriers are important factors for dispersal and speciation of marine hydroids.
Not going with the flow: Locomotor activity does not constrain immunity in a wild fish
Authors: Masud Numair , Synnott Rebecca , Hablützel Pascal I. , Friberg Ida M. , Cable Joanne , Jackson Joseph A.
Published: October 2019

Immunity is a central component of fitness in wild animals, but its determinants are poorly understood. In particular, the importance of locomotory activity as a constraint on immunity is unresolved. Using a piscine model (Gasterosteus aculeatus), we combined a 25‐month observational time series for a wild lotic habitat with an open flume experiment to determine the influence of locomotor activity (countercurrent swimming) on natural variation in immune function. To maximize the detectability of effects in our flume experiment, we set flow velocity and duration (10 cm/s for 48 hr) just below the point at which exhaustion would ensue. Following this treatment, we measured expression in a set of immune‐associated genes and infectious disease resistance through a standard challenge with an ecologically relevant monogenean infection (Gyrodactylus gasterostei). In the wild, there was a strong association of water flow with the expression of immune‐associated genes, but this association became modest and more complex when adjusted for thermal effects. Our flume experiment, although statistically well‐powered and based on a scenario near the limits of swimming performance in stickleback, detected no countercurrent swimming effect on immune‐associated gene expression or infection resistance. The field association between flow rate and immune expression could thus be due to an indirect effect, and we tentatively advance hypotheses to explain this. This study clarifies the drivers of immune investment in wild vertebrates; although locomotor activity, within the normal natural range, may not directly influence immunocompetence, it may still correlate with other variables that do.
Different ways to die in a changing world: Consequences of climate change for tree species performance and survival through an ecophysiological perspective
Authors: Menezes‐Silva Paulo Eduardo , Loram‐Lourenço Lucas , Alves Rauander Douglas Ferreira Barros , Sousa Letícia Ferreira , Almeida Sabrina Emanuella da Silva , Farnese Fernanda Santos
Published: October 2019

Anthropogenic activities such as uncontrolled deforestation and increasing greenhouse gas emissions are responsible for triggering a series of environmental imbalances that affect the Earth's complex climate dynamics. As a consequence of these changes, several climate models forecast an intensification of extreme weather events over the upcoming decades, including heat waves and increasingly severe drought and flood episodes. The occurrence of such extreme weather will prompt profound changes in several plant communities, resulting in massive forest dieback events that can trigger a massive loss of biodiversity in several biomes worldwide. Despite the gravity of the situation, our knowledge regarding how extreme weather events can undermine the performance, survival, and distribution of forest species remains very fragmented. Therefore, the present review aimed to provide a broad and integrated perspective of the main biochemical, physiological, and morpho‐anatomical disorders that may compromise the performance and survival of forest species exposed to climate change factors, particularly drought, flooding, and global warming. In addition, we also discuss the controversial effects of high CO2 concentrations in enhancing plant growth and reducing the deleterious effects of some extreme climatic events. We conclude with a discussion about the possible effects that the factors associated with the climate change might have on species distribution and forest composition.
Minimum sample sizes for invasion genomics: Empirical investigation in an invasive whitefly
Authors: Qu Wan‐Mei , Liang Ni , Wu Zi‐Ku , Zhao You‐Gang , Chu Dong
Published: October 2019

Analysis of population genetics provides insights into the evolutionary processes, among which the sample size choice is per se a crucial issue in the analysis. Genome‐wide high‐throughput techniques based on RADseq have been increasingly used in studies on the population genomics of invasive species. However, there is little information available regarding optimal sample sizes for analyzing population genomics of invasive species. In this study, we first use type IIB endonucleases restriction site‐associated DNA (2b‐RAD) to mine thousands of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for native and introduced populations in Q1 clade (SPB and 17JN) and Q2 clade (ISQ and UAS0601) of the whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) MED (also known as B. tabaci biotype Q). Then, we used resampling techniques to create simulated populations with a random subset of individuals and 3,000 SNPs to determine how many individuals should be sampled for accurate estimates of intra‐ and interpopulation genetic diversity. We calculated the intrapopulation genetic diversity parameters (unbiased expected heterozygosity, observed heterozygosity, and the number of effect alleles) and pairwise genetic differentiation FST; finally, an ad hoc statistic, ΔK, was used to determine the optimal value. Our results showed that a sample size greater than four individuals (n ≥ 4) has little impact on estimates of genetic diversity within whitefly populations; moreover, precise estimate of FST can be easily achieved at a very small simple size (n = 3 or 4). Our results will provide in‐depth understanding of the optimization of sampling schemes in population genomics of invasive species.
Morphological characterization and phylogenetic relationships of Indochinese box turtles—The Cuora galbinifrons complex
Authors: Liu Xiaoli , Li Wei , Ye Zhaoyang , Zhu Yanyu , Hong Xiaoyou , Zhu Xinping
Published: October 2019

The members of the Indochinese box turtle complex, namely Cuora galbinifrons, Cuora bourreti, and Cuora picturata, rank the most critically endangered turtle species on earth after more than three decades of over‐harvesting for food, traditional Chinese medicine, and pet markets. Despite advances in molecular biology, species boundaries and phylogenetic relationships, the status of the C. galbinifrons complex remains unresolved due to the small number of specimens observed and collected in the field. In this study, we present analyses of morphologic characters as well as mitochondrial and nuclear DNA data to reconstruct the species boundaries and systematic relationships within the C. galbinifrons complex. Based on principal component analysis (PCA) and statistical analysis, we found that phenotypic traits partially overlapped among galbinifrons, bourreti, and picturata, and that galbinifrons and bourreti might be only subspecifically distinct. Moreover, we used the mitochondrial genome, COI, and nuclear gene Rag1 under the maximum likelihood criteria and Bayesian inference criteria to elucidate whether C. galbinifrons could be divided into three separate species or subspecies. We found strong support for a sister relationship between picturata and the other two species, and consequently, we recommend maintaining picturata as a full species, and classifying bourreti and galbinifrons as subspecies of C. galbinifrons. These findings provide evidence for a better understanding of the evolutionary histories of these critically endangered turtles.
Mite load predicts the quality of sexual color and locomotor performance in a sexually dichromatic lizard
Authors: Orton Richard W. , Kinsey Chase T. , McBrayer Lance D.
Published: October 2019

Since Darwin, the maintenance of bright sexual colors has recurrently been linked to mate preference. However, the mechanisms underpinning such preferences for bright colors would not be resolved for another century. Likely, the idea of selection for colors that could decrease the chances of survival (e.g., flashy colors that can inadvertently attract predators) was perceived as counterintuitive. It is now widely accepted that these extreme colors often communicate to mates the ability to survive despite a “handicap” and act as honest signals of individual quality when they are correlated with the quality of other traits that are directly linked to individual fitness. Sexual colors in males are frequently perceived as indicators of infection resistance, in particular. Still, there remains considerable discord among studies attempting to parse the relationships between the variables associating sexual color and infection resistance, such as habitat type and body size. This discord may arise from complex interactions between these variables. Here, we ask if sexual color in male Florida scrub lizards (Sceloporus woodi) is an honest signal of resistance to chigger mite infection. To this end, we use linear modeling to explore relationships between mite load, different components of sexual color, ecological performance, body size, and habitat type. Our data show that that the brightness of sexual color in scrub lizards is negatively associated with the interaction between mite load and body size, and scrub lizards suffer decreased endurance capacity with increases in mite load. Our data also indicate that mite load, performance, and sexual color in male scrub lizards can vary between habitat types. Collectively, these results suggest that sexual color in scrub lizards is an honest indicator of individual quality and further underscore the importance of considering multiple factors when testing hypotheses related to the maintenance of sexual color.
Diversifying the Teacher Workforce: Evidence From Surveys, Phone Interviews, and Site Visits With Educator Preparation Programs
Authors: Goe Laura , Roth Amanda
Published: October 2019

As America's prekindergarten through 12th grade population becomes increasingly diverse, educator preparation programs (EPPs) are tasked with attracting, admitting, supporting, and graduating more teacher candidates from underrepresented groups. The research reported here was designed to improve our understanding of strategies that some EPPs have used in their efforts to diversify their student body and produce qualified graduates from diverse backgrounds who are prepared to deliver high‐quality instruction to their students. EPPs that shared information for this research provided details about the barriers they had identified to increasing diversity in their programs. They also described efforts they made to address barriers and whether they perceived those efforts as helpful in diversifying their programs. Through multiple methods of data collection and analysis, we have compiled and synthesized descriptions of EPPs' strategies that we hypothesize may contribute to success in attracting, admitting, supporting, and graduating more teacher candidates from underrepresented groups. Ultimately, we note the highly contextualized experience of each EPP and suggest that EPPs consider whether strategies and solutions implemented at EPPs that feel they are achieving success would benefit their programs as well, perhaps concentrating on one or more phases of the teacher candidate's experience with the EPP. A model for how to implement programmatic change is proposed.
How do we distinguish termite stone lines from artefact horizons? A challenge for geoarchaeology in tropical Australia
Authors: Smith M. A. , Ward Ingrid , Moffat Ian
Published: October 2019

Can we distinguish stone lines created by termite bioturbation from genuine artefact horizons? This is a challenge for field archaeology and geoarchaeology in northern Australia, where termites are abundant. We review published data to (a) present a model of the evolution of stone lines and (b) develop guidelines for recognizing these bioturbation products in archaeological contexts. In case studies, we examine Madjedbebe and Nauwalabila, two sites in northern Australia. The early occupation levels at these sites are pivotal to ideas about initial human occupation of the Australian landmass but there are claims these are unrecognized stone lines. Our assessment is that neither Madjedbebe nor Nauwalabila contain termite stone lines, although both sites may have complex geomorphic and taphonomic histories.
Disability, Technology, and Flourishing
Authors: Parens Erik
Published: October 2019

Because people with disabilities live in a world not built for them, they are often the first to experiment with new technologies and are often expert in making choices about when to use them. People with disabilities face the question that all human beings increasingly face: to what extent will a given technology promote or thwart my flourishing? More generally, and at least as importantly, what does “flourishing” mean, and how can people use technologies to promote it? To address those questions, we will build six public conversations around an activity that can be essential for flourishing: communicating, navigating, belonging, expressing, curing, and procreating. Each event will feature three persons who live with a disability or are the parents of someone who does.
Admiring Dan's Creation
Authors: Parens Erik
Published: October 2019

Dan Callahan never tired of probing the fundamental ethical question that Socrates asked, “How should we live?” The investigation animated him. He asked, Can we, for a moment, set aside our preoccupation with better health and a longer life and think together about what we want those things for ? Can we explore what a good life consists in?

It turned out there was no better alibi for asking that fundamental question than taking up the seemingly more manageable ones that were arising in the context of emerging medicine, science, and technology. When one asked about who should be born, or how we should die, or how we should prioritize investments in the myriad institutions that help to promote human well‐being, the question concerning what we mean by a good life was always and palpably present.
Callahanian Bioethics
Authors: Earp Brian D.
Published: October 2019

For someone with an outsized influence on a field he helped to create, Dan Callahan was anything but overbearing. Physically compact, thin, and wiry in older age, he spoke at the rapid speed of his mind. Soon after I met him—when I was on the cusp of what would become a year‐long residency at The Hastings Center—I found myself seated in his decidedly quaint living room. Dan told a story that evening, one of many that has stuck in my head. It seemed to encapsulate his moral mindset and, in a way, his broader vision for bioethics. I am sure he has told the story many times to many people, but here it is as I recall it.
Dan Callahan's Press Clips
Authors: Gilbert Susan
Published: October 2019

For more than eleven years, I worked with Dan Callahan as an editor, a liaison with journalists, and a sounding board for ideas. To Dan, every new writing project was a thrill, whether it was for the New Republic or a blog. He consumed a wide range of professional and scholarly literature, followed the news with the eye of a reporter, and called experts when he wanted to learn more about something he had read. The result was a volcanic bubbling of story ideas. If he didn't turn them into articles or books, I sometimes had the feeling that he might burst.
Developing, Administering, and Scoring the Healthcare Ethics Consultant Certification Examination
Authors: Bruce Courtenay R. , Feudtner Chris , Davis Daniel , Benner Mary Beth ,   Felicia Cohn for the Healthcare Ethics Consultant Certification Commission
Published: October 2019

In November 2018, the practice of health care ethics consultation crossed a major threshold when 138 candidates took the inaugural Healthcare Ethics Consultant Certification Examination. This accomplishment, long in the making, has had and continues to have both advocates and critics. The Healthcare Ethics Consultant Certification Commission, a functionally autonomous body created and funded by the American Society for Bioethics and Humanities, was charged with overseeing creation of the certification process, developing the exam, and formulating certification standards and policies to assess candidates’ qualifications. In this essay, as members of the commission, we describe the process of developing, administering, and scoring the certification examination as well as the historical context and the outlook for certification. By detailing the decisions and actions of the commission, we aim to provide a transparent account of the commission's efforts to develop a psychometrically sound, reliable, and secure examination through a deliberative, fair, and data‐driven process.
The Moral Status of Human‐Animal Chimeras with Human Brain Cells
Authors: Tannenbaum Julie A.
Published: October 2019

While there is not unanimity (across time or cultures), almost all who read this commentary will think that both they and a toddler have a moral status higher than that of a rat. For instance, they will think that a third party who has to choose whom to save from death should choose them over the rat, and the toddler over the rat. But what is it about humans that gives us this greater moral status? This question is particularly pressing when considering that scientists have begun creating human‐animal chimeras with brains composed partly or wholly of human cells. In “Human‐Animal Chimeras: The Moral Insignificance of Uniquely Human Capacities,” Julian Koplin focuses on the moral implications of such experiments and those that use (or plan to use) these chimeras to study diseases and treatments. How should we understand the concerns about moral status that have been raised about such chimeras? In this commentary, I interpret these concerns differently from Koplin and respond to his suggestion that the greater one's ability to draw value from certain kinds of conscious experiences, the greater one's moral status.
What Medical Students Teach: The Healing Skill of Being a Team Player
Authors: Chen Donna , Shepherd Lois , Muse Eleanor , Johnston Alika
Published: October 2019

The question, what makes a clinician a healer? may evoke the image of a devoted physician paying a critically important home visit at the end of a long day or the image of an astute nurse—steadfast, empathic, anticipating the patient's needs before they become apparent to others. But health care is no longer provided by lone doctors or nurses. In the modern health care system, multiple professionals must work together to provide safe and effective care. The moral nature of healing has not changed. But what is required of clinicians to facilitate healing has. To be a healer today, a clinician must be a good team player. Medical students have opened our eyes to this new reality. Building on their observations, we articulate a view that, over and above the role of teamwork in providing technically appropriate care and preventing errors, health care requires teamwork to promote healing. Being a good team player is now a moral imperative because it makes an essential contribution to healing.
Neutral effects of turbidity across a gradient of vegetation density on the predation of juvenile mandarin fish (Siniperca chuatsi)
Authors: Li Wei , Zhang Tanglin , Hicks Brendan J. , Zhang Chaowen , Li Zhongjie , Liu Jiashou
Published: October 2019

Mandarin fishSiniperca chuatsiis a widespread piscivorous species in lakes of the Yangtze River basin. However, their wild population has drastically declined, and survival and growth rates of stocked populations are low. Anthropogenic activities have reduced submersed vegetation and increased turbidity in lakes containingS. chuatsi, thus, we hypothesize that reduced submersed vegetation and increased turbidity could inhibit the feeding efficiency of juvenileS. chuatsi, subsequently reducing their growth and survival. To test this hypothesis, we experimentally examined the effects of a range of vegetation density and turbidity on predation ofS. chuatsi. Laboratory predation trials were performed with a common prey fishCarassius auratusoffered simultaneously toS. chuatsiin clear or turbid water under five different levels of vegetation density (0, 20, 40, 80, and 120 stems/m2). The total prey consumption per day (in 24 hr) byS. chuatsionC. auratuswas significantly affected by vegetation density, with the consumption positively linearly related with increased vegetation density. The total prey consumption was unaffected by turbidity. Prey size selection was not significantly influenced by vegetation density or turbidity. These results indicate that turbidity does not appear to negatively affect the predation ofS. chuatsi, but a reduction of vegetation can negatively influence feeding induced by decreased predation efficiency, and hence might hinder survival and growth.
GATA factors in pancreas development and disease
Authors: Villamayor Laura , Cano David A. , Rojas Anabel
Published: October 2019

There is an urgent need for the development of novel therapeutics options for diabetic patients given the high prevalence of diabetes worldwide and that, currently, there is no cure for this disease. The transplantation of pancreatic islets that contain insulin‐producing cells is a promising therapeutic alternative, particularly for type 1 diabetes. However, the shortage of organ donors constitutes a major limitation for this approach; thus, developing alternative sources of insulin‐producing cells is of critical importance. In the last decade, our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms controlling embryonic pancreas development has significantly advanced. More importantly, this knowledge has provided the basis for the in vitro generation of insulin‐producing cells from stem cells. Recent studies have revealed that GATA transcription factors are involved in various stages of pancreas formation and in the adult ß cell function. Here, we review the fundamental role of GATA transcription factors in pancreas morphogenesis and their association with congenital diseases associated with pancreas.
Using the Performance Diagnostic Checklist–Human Services to identify an indicated intervention to decrease employee tardiness
Authors: Merritt Todd A. , DiGennaro Reed Florence D. , Martinez Cynthia E.
Published: October 2019

We assessed and reduced the tardiness of 4 direct‐care staff employed at a school that provides educational services to children with autism. The Performance Diagnostic Checklist – Human Services was administered to participants and their supervisors to identify one or more indicated interventions. Relative to baseline, tardiness was lower during intervention. The most effective intervention included task clarification, a problem‐solving discussion, tokens exchangeable for back‐up reinforcers, and weekly graphic feedback. Moreover, participants reported that the intervention components, particularly praise and a token, had high acceptability.
Association of human serum paraoxonase‐1 with some respiratory drugs
Authors: Gökçe Başak , Sarıoğlu Nurhan , Gençer Nahit , Arslan Oktay
Published: October 2019

In this study, we investigated the effects of certain respiratory drugs, which are mainly used on human serum paraoxonase‐1 (hPON1; EC 3.1.8.1). hPON1 was purified from human serum, with 354.91 fold and 45% yield by using two simple step procedures including, first, ammonium sulfate precipitation, then, Sepharose‐4B‐l‐tyrosine‐1‐naphthylamine hydrophobic interaction chromatography. SDS‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed a single protein band belonging to hPON1 with 43 kDa. All the pharmaceutical compounds inhibited the PON1 enzyme highly at the micromolar level. The obtained IC50 values for nine different pharmaceutics ranged from 0.219 μM (salbutamol sulfate) to 67.205 μM (montelukast sodium). So, all drugs could be considered as potent hPON1 inhibitors. Ki values and inhibition types were determined by Lineweaver‐Burk graphs. While varenicline tartrate and moxifloxacin hydrochloride inhibited the enzyme in a noncompetitive manner, others inhibited it in a mixed manner.
miR125a attenuates BMSCs apoptosis via the MAPK‐ERK pathways in the setting of craniofacial defect reconstruction
Authors: Fan Longkun , Wang Jingxian , Ma Chao
Published: October 2019

Bone mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC)‐based regenerative therapy is critical for the craniofacial defect reconstruction. However, oxidative stress microenvironment after transplantation limits the therapeutic efficiency of BMSC. The miR‐181c has been found to be associated with cell survival and proliferation. Herein, we investigated whether prior miR‐181c treatment promoted BMSC proliferation and survival under oxidative stress injury. The results in our study demonstrated that hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) treatment reduced BMSC viability and this effect could be reversed via additional supplementation of miR181‐c. Mechanistically, oxidative stress increased cell apoptosis, augmented caspase‐3 activity, promoted reactive oxygen species synthesis, impaired mitochondrial potential, and induced mitochondrial dynamics imbalance. However, miR‐181c pretreatment reversed these effects of oxidative stress on BMSC. Moreover, miR‐181c treatment improved BMSC proliferation, migration and paracrine, which are very important for craniofacial reconstruction. In addition, we identified that AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK)–mitofusins‐1 (Mfn1) axis was the direct targets of miR‐181c in BMSC. Mfn1 silencing impaired the protective effects miR‐181c on BMSC viability and proliferation under oxidative stress environment. Collectively, our results indicate that miR‐181c participates in oxidative stress‐mediated BMSC damage by modulating the AMPK–Mfn1 signaling pathway, suggesting miR‐181c–AMPK–Mfn1 axis may serves as novel therapeutic targets to facilitate craniofacial defect reconstruction.
Modulatory effects of statins on the autophagy: A therapeutic perspective
Authors: Ashrafizadeh Milad , Ahmadi Zahra , Farkhondeh Tahereh , Samarghandian Saeed
Published: October 2019

Autophagy is considered as an important mechanism for maintaining homeostasis and responsible for the degradation of superfluous or potentially toxic components and organelles. Autophagy impairment is associated with a number of pathological conditions, such as aging, neurological disorders, cancer, and infection. Autophagy also plays a significant role in cancer chemotherapy. The multiple cancer drugs have been notably developed with the strategy of autophagy modulation. Statins, 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methyl‐glutaryl‐CoA inhibitors, are known due to their efficacy in decreasing low‐density lipoprotein and extensively used for the management of cardiovascular diseases. Statins have other therapeutic and biological activities, such as antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antitumor, and neuroprotective known as pleiotropic effects. It seems that statins are capable of targeting various signaling pathways in the induction of their great pharmacological effects. At the present study, we demonstrate the therapeutic effects of statins mediated via autophagy regulation.