bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel variants in Turkish patients with glycogen storage disease
Authors: Çakar Nafiye Emel , Gezdirici Alper , Topuz Hanım Şeyma , Önal Hasan
Published: May 2020

Background

Glycogen storage diseases (GSD) are disorders of autosomal recessive carbohydrate metabolism, characterized by glycogen accumulation. The liver and muscle tissue are commonly affected but patients may present with different clinical manifestations. The presence of glycogen can be demonstrated in biopsies and definitive diagnosis can be made by enzymatic or molecular analysis. The aim of this study was to determine specific gene mutations in our cases with GSD.

Methods

Thirty‐eight patients with clinical and laboratory diagnoses of GSD were studied. Thirty‐two patients had undergone genetic analysis. In our study, a next‐generation sequencing panel was used.

Results

Five novel variants of uncertain significance (VUS), which were likely to be pathogenic, were detected in seven patients. Two new pathogenic variations of c.927delT (p.Phe309LeufsTer4) homozygous and c.44C>G (p.Ser15Ter) homozygous in the G6PC gene were detected in two GSD type Ia patients. In our two non‐sibling GSD type III patients, c.1439T>G (p.Leu480Arg) homozygous novel‐VUS was detected in the AGL gene. In our GSD type IV patient, c.1054G>C (p.Asp352His) homozygous novel‐VUS was detected in the GBE1 gene. In GSD type VI, two sibling patients had a c.1454A>G (p.Asn485Ser) homozygous novel‐VUS change in the PYGL gene.

Conclusions

We determined the gene mutations specific to cohorts in our cases with GSD. The novel pathogenic, likely pathogenic, and VUS changes identified will contribute to the relationship between the patients’ clinical and laboratory findings.
Possible selves, psychological well‐being, and substance use in young men within 12 months post‐incarceration
Authors: Johnson Amy , Corte Colleen , Culbert Gabriel , Finnegan Lorna , Tarlov Elizabeth , Maskaly Jon , Lusk Brigid
Published: May 2020

Objective

Community reentry post‐incarceration is fraught with challenges. The investigators examined the influence of highly personalized goals (possible selves) on psychological well‐being, drug use, and hazardous drinking in recently incarcerated young men returning to the community.

Design and Sample

In this cross‐sectional study, 52 young men released from jail or prison within the past 12 months were recruited from community‐based organizations and reentry events.

Measurements

Participants completed open‐ended possible selves measure and psychological well‐being and substance use questionnaires.

Results

Possible selves accounted for 19%–31% of the variance in sense of purpose, environmental mastery, and personal growth. Having a feared delinquent possible self was associated with lower sense of purpose. Having many feared possible selves was associated with lower environmental mastery. Having an expected possible self related to interpersonal relationships was associated with higher personal growth and environmental mastery. Men having a feared delinquent possible self or an expected possible self related to material/lifestyle were more likely to use marijuana than men who did not.

Conclusion

The content and number of possible selves may be an important focus for assessment by public health nurses in correctional and community settings serving young men post‐incarceration. Longitudinal studies with larger samples are needed.
Guarantor Financing in a Four‐Party Supply Chain Game with Leadership Influence
Authors: Zhou Weihua , Lin Tiantian , Cai Gangshu (George)
Published: May 2020

This study investigates manufacturer guarantor financing (MG) and third‐party logistics (3PL) guarantor financing (LG) in a four‐party supply chain game that features a manufacturer, a 3PL, a capital‐constrained retailer, and a bank. The manufacturer or 3PL can act as the guarantor for the retailer who borrows bank credit. Two different leadership structures are investigated, namely, Nash game and manufacturer leadership Stackelberg game, where the manufacturer and 3PL decide simultaneously and sequentially, respectively. The supply chain under both leadership structures prefers guarantor financing to traditional bank financing when the supply chain is sufficiently cost‐efficient. In the Nash game, however, firms encounter a free‐rider dilemma when choosing between MG and LG, wherein both potential guarantors prefer the other to be the guarantor. This free‐rider dilemma can be resolved in the Stackelberg game. We also observe the follower–guarantor advantage in the Stackelberg game, wherein all firms favor the follower to provide guarantor financing. Our analysis shows that the supply chain under guarantor financing with a longer decision hierarchy (i.e., the Stackelberg game) can be conditionally more effective than that with a shorter one (i.e., the Nash game). By further analyzing different cost structures, pricing mechanism, and retailer’s initial capital, we find that most of our qualitative results remain accurate under more sophisticated conditions. These findings enhance our understanding of the value of guarantor financing in a capital‐constrained supply chain and the impact of leadership structure on financing decisions.
Beyond the Turtle Approach: Women in the Public Sector
Authors: Neal Sue M. , Gherardi Michelle R. , Olejarski Amanda M.
Published: May 2020

Equity issues persist in defining public sector women as in need of accommodation, including during times of child‐rearing or caregiving. The authors argue instead that viewing the fullness of a woman's existence should empower others to see broad life experiences as a benefit to be fostered. Public service organizations and the academy should build policies and systems that recognize this value and work to cultivate, rather than accommodate. While women have historically taken the turtle approach—that is, keep your head down—the #MeToo movement has morphed women into strong bison, standing shoulder to shoulder. The authors advocate for more inclusive and supportive mentoring relationships to move into a new era—the pigeon era. In public administration, this manifests as providing holistic support and intentional mentorships throughout the arc of women's careers and institutional policy changes that support the unique value of women in the public sector and the academy.
Seasonal variation in testicular blood flow dynamics and their relation to systemic and testicular oxidant/antioxidant biomarkers and androgens in rams
Authors: Hedia Mohamed G. , El‐Belely Mohamed S. , Ismail Sayed T. , Abo El‐Maaty Amal M.
Published: May 2020

The environmental temperature increased during summer and decreased during winter to the limits that might negatively affect animal and human reproduction. The responses of Egyptian rams to either hot or cold climatic conditions were studied in six mature rams subjected to weekly testicular Doppler ultrasonographic examination, blood sampling, seminal plasma collection and semen evaluation. The maximum environmental temperature and the relative humidity were used to classify the climatic condition according to the heat stress equation of sheep into hot months where temperature–humidity index (THI) was >26 (31.67 ± 0.54), and cold months where THI was <22 (18.39 ± 0.41). Testosterone, estradiol, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and lipid peroxide product (malondialdehyde, MDA) were measured in both blood and seminal plasma, while catalase (CAT) and reduced glutathione (GSH) were measured in blood and seminal plasma, respectively. Results revealed that, during the hot months, rams displayed significantly decreased testicular blood flow, increased seminal plasma MDA, decreased seminal plasma (SOD, GPx and GSH) and blood CAT antioxidant enzymes. The present study evidenced two novel findings: (a) the marked decrease in testicular blood flow volume, that is remarkable increase in both resistive index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) values, during hot months could be negatively affected both seminal plasma enzymatic activities and seminal attributes, and (b) the SOD and GPx activities in seminal plasma of such animals were suitable predictive markers for seminal attribute evaluation.
Unbiased Markov Chain Monte Carlo Methods with Couplings
Authors: Jacob Pierre E. , O’Leary John , Atchadé Yves F.
Published: May 2020

Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods provide consistent approximations of integrals as the number of iterations goes to ∞. MCMC estimators are generally biased after any fixed number of iterations. We propose to remove this bias by using couplings of Markov chains together with a telescopic sum argument of Glynn and Rhee. The resulting unbiased estimators can be computed independently in parallel. We discuss practical couplings for popular MCMC algorithms. We establish the theoretical validity of the estimators proposed and study their efficiency relative to the underlying MCMC algorithms. Finally, we illustrate the performance and limitations of the method on toy examples, on an Ising model around its critical temperature, on a high dimensional variable-selection problem, and on an approximation of the cut distribution arising in Bayesian inference for models made of multiple modules.
Mapping Memory and Historical Literacy onto the German Curriculum
Authors: Wagner Susanne M. , Hoecherl‐Alden Gisela
Published: May 2020

More than ever, faculty need to ensure that undergraduate curricula not only provide students with tools to gain linguistic proficiency but also teach them to analyze both written and visual information to attain historical literacy. Developing both intercultural proficiency and insights into various historical memorialization processes ensures that students can identify intertextual references, appreciate how their own culture memorializes its past, and understand how the past relates both to personal identity and collective identity formation. This article outlines how German programs might integrate historical inquiry into all levels of the curriculum and how language students learn to apply a cultural memory framework to the analysis of literature, film, and architecture from German‐speaking countries. Since linguistic and cultural competence are linked, it also examines how to advance both through historic content, how to sequence activities, and how to engage learners more deeply. Ultimately, this article concludes that students develop an interest in history and advance their linguistic and cultural literacy through scaffolded, interdisciplinary, and relevant instruction.
Beyond Cash Value: Promoting Real‐World Competence in the Global Turn
Authors: O'Brien Traci S.
Published: May 2020

In the literature on intercultural competence, such competence, or set of competencies, is desirable precisely because a globalized world needs world citizens who are at home everywhere and can deal effectively with alterity – presumably in order to be agents of positive change. To remain relevant, we as teachers in German Studies need theoretical and pragmatic justifications for what we do in and outside the classroom in order to prepare students for the reality of our 21st‐century world. At the same time, one needs to heed the call of the global turn carefully lest one replaces globalization with homogenization. After thorough research on this topic, some of which I will review in this article, one cannot avoid a surprising conclusion: Without selling out to it, we in the humanities have a lot to learn from the business model in the conceptualization of goals, the implementation of standards, and the identification of the proper assessment tool(s). The root of this problem, I assert, is the theoretical murkiness surrounding claims about value in the humanities (and the social sciences). Ultimately, this article uses comparison with the business model to advocate discernment about claims of value with solid foundations in the real world.
Mit Ruhe und Gelassenheit: Imagination, Movement, and Relaxation in the German Language Classroom
Authors: Jany Berit
Published: May 2020

Schools and universities continuously face new generations of students who struggle with stress management. Many learners have sedentary lifestyles in which they are deprived of somatic learning opportunities. Other learners experience feelings of dissociation and sensations of disembodiment that have a negative impact on their learning. This article presents a way to establish a connection between mind, body, and language that can help students and teachers counter the negative effects of stress in our high‐pressure world. The use of imagination, movement, and active relaxation encourages and sustains a body‐mind integration that offers learners of German a somatic learning experience. The proposed movement and relaxation elements serve as tools for students to comprehend and speak German in a relaxed atmosphere that enables them to self‐regulate their stress and anxiety levels and explore their own somatic psychology.
Detection of circulating anti‐keratinocyte autoantibodies in feline pemphigus foliaceus
Authors: Levy Britt J. , Mamo Lisa B. , Bizikova Petra
Published: May 2020

Background

Circulating anti‐keratinocyte immunoglobulin (Ig)G targeting desmosomal proteins have been identified in people and dogs with pemphigus foliaceus (PF). By contrast, detection attempts in PF‐affected cats have been largely unsuccessful.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To detect circulating anti‐keratinocyte autoantibodies in PF‐affected cats and determine their titres and tissue‐staining patterns.

Animals

Thirty PF‐affected cats were compared to 11 specific‐pathogen free, 15 healthy and 31 allergic cats.

Methods and materials

Sera were tested by indirect immunofluorescence on canine footpad and buccal mucosal substrates.

Results

Circulating, anti‐keratinocyte IgG with a suprabasilar, web‐like (intercellular) pattern were detected in the majority of PF‐affected cats (23 of 30, 77%), some allergic cats (six of 31, 19%) and one healthy cat (7%). Both footpad epidermis and buccal mucosa were positive in the majority of seropositive PF‐affected cats (21 of 23, 91%), and in only one of six (17%) seropositive allergic cats. Staining was limited to the footpad in the remaining seropositive PF‐affected and allergic cats and one seropositive healthy cat. Reciprocal IgG titres were significantly higher in PF‐affected cats compared to controls (Dunn’s post‐test, P < 0.0001). Anti‐keratinocyte IgM, IgA or IgE were not detected in any sera.

Conclusions and clinical importance

These results confirm the presence of circulating anti‐keratinocyte IgG in a majority of PF‐affected cats and in a small percentage of healthy and allergic cats. Although the molecular target and pathogenic nature of the antibodies remains unknown, the detection of positive immunostaining on buccal mucosal tissue, in addition to the footpad, suggests that the major target antigen of feline PF differs from that reported in dogs.
Ophthalmic findings in 10 captive, anesthetized chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)
Authors: Sigmund Alex B. , Cushing Andrew C. , Hendrix Diane V. H.
Published: May 2020

Objectives

To document ophthalmic findings, Schirmer's tear test I (STT), and intraocular pressure (IOP) values for anesthetized chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes).

Animals Studied

Ten captive chimpanzees from Zoo Knoxville and Chattanooga Zoo.

Procedures

Ten chimpanzees were anesthetized for annual physical examinations, blood collection, and ophthalmic examination. Each was anesthetized with intramuscular (IM) injections of dexmedetomidine, midazolam, and ketamine. Ophthalmic findings and STT and IOP values in addition to general health information were recorded for each chimpanzee. Pupillary diameter was measured after topical tropicamide administration. A Shapiro‐Wilk test of normality was done for age, weight, STT values, IOP values, and pupil size.

Results

Ages ranged from 11 to 42 years. Weight range was 40.9‐83.6 kg. The mean STT was 13.4 ± 5.3 mm/min. The mean IOP was 14 ± 4.2 mm Hg. Seven of the 10 chimpanzees were considered geriatric, and each had perilimbal lipid deposits. Sedative‐associated miosis was successfully counteracted with a regimen of repeated applications of tropicamide, enabling complete fundic examination.

Conclusions

A complete ophthalmic examination can be done on anesthetized chimpanzees with the protocol used in this study.
Bone xenotransplantation: A review of the history, orthopedic clinical literature, and a single‐center case series
Authors: Bracey Daniel N. , Cignetti Natalie E. , Jinnah Alexander H. , Stone Austin V. , Gyr Bettina M. , Whitlock Patrick W. , Scott Aaron T.
Published: May 2020

Background

One‐half of all orthopedic surgeries require bone grafting for successful outcomes in fusions, reconstructive procedures, and the treatment of osseous defects resulting from trauma, tumor, infection, or congenital deformity. Autologous bone grafts are taken from the patient's own body and remain the “gold standard” graft choice but are limited in supply and impart significant patient morbidity. Xenograft bone is an attractive alternative from donors with controlled biology, in large supply and at a theoretically lower cost. Clinical results with xenograft bone for orthopedic applications have been mixed in the limited clinical trials published.

Methods

In the current review, we introduce fundamental principles of bone grafting, systematically review all orthopedic clinical studies reporting outcomes on patients transplanted with xenograft bone, and we present our own clinical results from patients grafted with bovine bone in foot and ankle reconstructive procedures.

Results

Thirty‐one clinical studies were identified for review and the majority (47%) were from spine surgery literature. Favorable results were reported in 44% of studies while 47% of studies reported poor outcomes and discouraged use of xenograft bone products. In our own clinical series, xenograft failed to integrate with host bone in 58% of cases and persistent pain was reported in 83% of cases.

Conclusions

This is the first systematic review of clinical results reported after bone xenotransplantation for orthopaedic surgery applications. Current literature does not support the use of xenograft bone products and our institution’s results are consistent with this conclusion. Our laboratory has reported promising pre‐clinical results with a xenograft product derived from porcine cancellous bone, but additional testing is required before considering clinical translation.
Regulatory changes in China on xenotransplantation and related products
Authors: Liu Yuping , Qin Lixia , Tong Rongsheng , Liu Ting , Ling Chen , Lei Tiantian , Zhang Dingding , Wang Yi , Deng Shaoping
Published: May 2020

Background

Given the persistence and the worldwide shortage of organs from both the deceased and living donors for clinical transplantation, pig organs or tissues hold immense promises for the patients on the waiting list, and xenotransplantation is deemed as one of the solutions to the organ shortage crisis. Indeed, the emerging gene editing technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas9, have led to tremendous progress in the generation of genetically modified pigs to overcome many barriers associated.

Method

We presented a description of the xenotransplantation regulations in China and the related products.

Result

Several groups in China have successfully generated transgenic pigs with the elimination of immune rejection or coagulation‐related genes, and both pre‐clinical and clinical studies have been reported. However, the pre‐clinical evaluation and clinical application of porcine xenotransplantation raises ethical and regulatory considerations. Herein, in this review, we will summarize and discuss the progress in xenotransplantation in China and xenotransplantation‐related products from the regulatory perspective.

Conclusion

There has been remarkable progress in both the genetically modified pigs and pre‐clinical studies in China, and China will be the first country to successfully fulfill the xenotransplantation from pig organ to human in the near future.
Fault Diagnostics of Roller Bearings Using Dimension Theory
Authors: Kumbhar Surajkumar G. , Sudhagar P Edwin
Published: May 2020

Rolling bearings accomplishes a smoother force transmission between relative components of high production volume systems. An impending fault may cause system malfunction and its maturation lead to a catastrophic failure of the system that increases the possibility of unscheduled maintenance or an expensive shutdown. These critical states demand a robust failure diagnosis scheme for bearings. The present paper demonstrates a novel way to develop a dynamic model for the rotor-bearing system using dimensional analysis (DA) considering significant geometric, operating, and thermal parameters of the system. The vibration responses of faulty spherical roller bearings are investigated under various operating conditions for validation of the developed model. Multivariable regression analysis is performed to expose the potential of the approach in the detection of the bearing failure. Results obtained unveil the simple and reliable nature of the dynamic modeling using DA.
New Calculation Method and Application of Gas Loss From Coring Shale Gas Well
Authors: Li Wuguang , Jian Zhang , Chen Xiaokai , Chen Hao
Published: May 2020

Gas content is one of the most important parameters of shale reservoir evaluation and productivity evaluation. In order to obtain gas content accurately, based on the first law of Fick and material balance equation, mathematical model of gas dispersion flow in shale reservoir is established, analytical solution is obtained, and evaluation method of gas dispersion in shale reservoir is formed. On the basis of this study, the onsite desorption gas measuring device and testing process for coring shale gas wells are designed, the time-varying shale desorption gas is obtained, and the residual gas of shale is measured by the crushing method. The calculation formula of shale gas content is obtained by fitting the test data, the shale gas loss, and total gas content are calculated, and then analyzed the influences of the shale gas-bearing properties and gas content on single well production and geological reserves by combining the data of shale absorbed gas. The results show that the gas content calculated by the new method is about 6.54% more than that of log interpretation, and about 7.57% on average more than that obtained by traditional empirical method. The gas content proportion of long Yi1 subsegmental small layers 1 and 2 is smaller than that of long Yi1 subsegmental small layers 3 and 4 and long Yi2 subsegmental. It is considered that the amount of shale gas lost is large, because of the pressure release during the coring, and the comparative error of gas content obtained by several methods is within the acceptable range. So the new method can be used as an important mean to obtain shale gas content. The most direct factors affecting gas content are complex: Buried depth, porosity, total organic carbon content, water saturation, and formation temperature. Shale gas content is the material basis of single well production and geological reserves of shale gas, and it is also the decisive factor. Therefore, the accurate evaluation of shale gas content is one of the key techniques to evaluate shale gas well productivity and shale gas resources, which is of great significance.
A Constitutive Model for Binary-Solvent Gels
Authors: Ma Jie , Jia Zheng , Qu Shaoxing
Published: May 2020

A hydrogel is a network of polymeric chains hosting a large amount of the single solvent, namely, water. The high degree of hydration not only endows hydrogels with desired attributes such as superb biocompatibility but it also yields disadvantages, including high volatility and inability to host hydrophobic drugs. The need for enhancing the versatility of hydrogels to meet requirements of diverse applications has led to the fabrication of binary-solvent gels (e.g., gels in aqueous ethanol) with the hope to capitalize on both the merits of water and other organic solvents. In this paper, to understand the fundamental mechanics of binary-solvent gels, we develop a constitutive model by formulating the free energy function based on the extended Flory–Huggins lattice theory and deriving the equilibrium equations. We then apply the model to examine the mechanical behaviors of binary-solvent gels under mechanical forces, or subject to geometric constraints. The model can consistently capture some experimental findings on binary-solvent gels such as the cononsolvency effect. In particular, we employ the model to analyze a bilayer soft actuator consisting of a binary-solvent gel film attaching to a passive polymer substrate. The proposed model may provide insights into the design of novel soft machines based on binary-solvent gels.
Characterizing amplitude and frequency modulation cues in natural soundscapes: A pilot study on four habitats of a biosphere reserve
Authors: Thoret Etienne , Varnet Léo , Boubenec Yves , Férriere Régis , Le Tourneau François-Michel , Krause Bernie , Lorenzi Christian
Published: May 2020

Natural soundscapes correspond to the acoustical patterns produced by biological and geophysical sound sources at different spatial and temporal scales for a given habitat. This pilot study aims to characterize the temporal-modulation information available to humans when perceiving variations in soundscapes within and across natural habitats. This is addressed by processing soundscapes from a previous study [Krause, Gage, and Joo. (2011). Landscape Ecol. 26, 1247] via models of human auditory processing extracting modulation at the output of cochlear filters. The soundscapes represent combinations of elevation, animal, and vegetation diversity in four habitats of the biosphere reserve in the Sequoia National Park (Sierra Nevada, USA). Bayesian statistical analysis and support vector machine classifiers indicate that: (i) amplitude-modulation (AM) and frequency-modulation (FM) spectra distinguish the soundscapes associated with each habitat; and (ii) for each habitat, diurnal and seasonal variations are associated with salient changes in AM and FM cues at rates between about 1 and 100 Hz in the low (<0.5 kHz) and high (>1–3 kHz) audio-frequency range. Support vector machine classifications further indicate that soundscape variations can be classified accurately based on these perceptually inspired representations.
The Effect of the TayCo External Ankle Brace on Multidirectional Reach Distance, Balance, and Motion in Collegiate Athletes
Authors: Smith Steven J. , Powden Cameron J.
Published: May 2020

Ensuring ankle stability while allowing for functional movement is important when returning patients to physical activity and attempting to prevent injury. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the TayCo external and a lace-up ankle brace on lower extremity function, dynamic balance, and motion in 18 physically active participants. Significantly greater range of motion was demonstrated for the TayCo brace compared with the lace-up brace for dorsiflexion and plantar flexion, as well as less range of motion for the TayCo brace compared to the lace-up brace for inversion and eversion. The TayCo brace provided restricted frontal plane motion while allowing increased sagittal plane motion without impacting performance measures.
“You’re Not Going to Get It Right Every Time”: Teachers’ Perspectives on Giving Voice to Students in Physical Education
Authors: Howley Donal , O’Sullivan Mary
Published: May 2020

This paper explored physical education (PE) teachers’ perspectives of giving voice to students to understand how the practice is enacted in lessons at a time of curricular reform. A qualitative comparative case study followed three teachers in a triad of Irish secondary schools, eliciting their experiences of giving voice to students using focus groups, interviews, and a reflection journal. Data were gathered and coded to identify emergent themes. The practices challenged included instruction, teacher control, and teacher–student relationships. The teachers demonstrated the capacity to activate students’ voices and respond, changing the way they perceived and facilitated the practice in PE. Worryingly, teachers made no connection between student voice and learning and assessment in PE and were not forthcoming implementing the practice in high-stakes examination scenarios. Research recognizing and appreciating the challenges and opportunities PE teachers face in attempting to acquire the spirit to do such work espousing reform is important to the field and our students.
The Shared Criticisms of Periodization Models and Behavior-Change Theories for Exercise: An Opportunity for Collaborative Advancement?
Authors: Strohacker Kelley , Beaumont Cory T.
Published: May 2020

Engaging in regular exercise is a common strategy to meet physical activity guidelines. It is generally accepted that exercise programs and interventions that are theory driven and provide clear exercise prescriptions elicit greater improvements than ones that are and do not. Several researchers have further surmised that the application of periodization may be useful for insufficiently active and at-risk populations. Although periodization is most commonly used to elicit peak performance in athletes, the goal of manipulating human movement to elicit favorable health and fitness adaptations is shared by interventionists applying behavior-change theories. However, the commonly applied theories and concept of periodization have received criticisms alluding to their potential obsolescence. The purpose of this review was to synthesize these criticisms and present current opinions in intervention development, with the goal of promoting cross talk and collaboration between experts in both disciplines to address potential shortcomings and stimulate innovation in exercise-program design.
Near-infrared nerve-binding fluorophores for buried nerve tissue imaging
Authors: Wang Lei G. , Barth Connor W. , Kitts Catherine H. , Mebrat Mubark D. , Montaño Antonio R. , House Broderick J. , McCoy Meaghan E. , Antaris Alexander L. , Galvis S. N. , McDowall Ian , Sorger Jonathan M. , Gibbs Summer L.
Published: May 2020

Small-molecule near-infrared nerve contrast agents were developed to enable nerve visualization at depth, improving nerve-sparing during surgery.
Preclinical validation of a repurposed metal chelator as an early-intervention therapeutic for hemotoxic snakebite
Authors: Albulescu Laura-Oana , Hale Melissa S. , Ainsworth Stuart , Alsolaiss Jaffer , Crittenden Edouard , Calvete Juan J. , Evans Chloe , Wilkinson Mark C. , Harrison Robert A. , Kool Jeroen , Casewell Nicholas R.
Published: May 2020

DMPS, a drug licensed to treat mercury poisoning, is preclinically effective as an oral therapeutic for treating certain hemotoxic snakebites.
Repurposed drug to the rescue of snakebite victims
Authors: Koh Cho Yeow , Bendre Rohan , Kini R. Manjunatha
Published: May 2020

Preclinical data suggest the possibility of repurposing a drug for early intervention in envenoming by snake venom rich in metalloproteinases (Albulescu
et al.
, this issue).
Inhibiting the executioner may prevent vision loss
Authors: Su Xinyi
Published: May 2020

SARM1 plays a role in photoreceptor survival, and its inhibition presents an alternative way to treat retinal degenerative disease.
Progress towards the Development of a NEAT Vaccine for Anthrax II: Immunogen Specificity and Alum Effectiveness in an Inhalational Model
Authors: Jelinski Joseph , Terwilliger Austen , Green Sabrina , Maresso Anthony
Published: May 2020

Bacillus anthracis
is the causative agent of anthrax disease, presents with high mortality, and has been at the center of bioweapon efforts. The only currently U.S. FDA-approved vaccine to prevent anthrax in humans is anthrax vaccine adsorbed (AVA), which is protective in several animal models and induces neutralizing antibodies against protective antigen (PA), the cell-binding component of anthrax toxin. However, AVA requires a five-course regimen to induce immunity, along with an annual booster, and is composed of undefined culture supernatants from a PA-secreting strain.
Using Culturally Relevant Pedagogy to Reconsider the Genetics Canon
Authors: Sparks Rachel A. , Baldwin Kara Esther , Darner Rebekka
Published: May 2020

In this article, we explore culturally relevant pedagogy (CRP) to work toward alleviating persistent underrepresentation in STEM fields of oppressed minorities. We argue that biology instructors can practice agency, or the capacity to act in ways that undermine opportunity gaps that lead to underrepresentation, by developing themselves into culturally relevant pedagogues who are committed to underrepresented minority (URM) students’ learning and career success, who demonstrate cultural competence, and who develop a sociopolitical consciousness regarding the culturally laden nature of their discipline. We then explore Gregor Mendel’s story to demonstrate the culturally laden nature of the history of science as well as the nature of our current curricular canon. The article concludes with a postulated alternative method to genetics education in a general biology course that reflects the culturally laden nature of our genetics knowledge, as well as our current understanding of inheritance.
Fostering Inclusion through an Interinstitutional, Community-Engaged, Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience
Authors: Malotky Michele K. H. , Mayes Kayla M. , Price Kailyn M. , Smith Gustavo , Mann Sherese N. , Guinyard Mesha W. , Veale Sarina , Ksor Vung , Siu Lek , Mlo H’Lois , Young Andrew J. , Nsonwu Maura B. , Morrison Sharon D. , Sudha S. , Bernot Kelsie M.
Published: May 2020

Creation of an inclusive environment requires a culture of equity, justice, value and respect for diverse backgrounds, and opportunities for students to engage with communities while addressing issues in science and society. These tasks are particularly challenging for institutions lacking a diverse population. Here, we demonstrate evidence of a successful model for creating an inclusive environment in an interinstitutional course between a large, public, historically black institution and a small, private, primarily white institution. Because many individuals from underrepresented minority groups tend to value communal goals of working together and helping their communities, we incorporated two high-impact practices of community-engaged learning and course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) focused on health disparities research in neighboring communities. Although the research projects varied each semester, they were linked by their impact on and engagement with the community. Students practiced cultural competency skills in both small group projects within the class and engagement activities in the community. We measured the efficacy of CURE components (novel authentic research, scientific process skills, iteration, collaboration, and broader impact) through a combination of direct and indirect assessments, quantitative and qualitative analysis. More than simply scientific skills, students from both institutions developed lasting interest in working with diverse populations as well as respecting and valuing different backgrounds. This inclusive environment, combined with increased interest in research, suggests that this course could potentially serve as a model for interinstitutional collaborations in creating inclusive environments that support the future success of diverse students, eventually changing the STEM research culture.
Starting the Conversation: Initial Listening and Identity Approaches to Community Cultural Wellness,
Authors: Smith-Keiling Beverly L. , Sharma Archana , Fagbodun Sheritta M. , Chahal Harsimranjit K. , Singleton Keyaira , Gopalakrishnan Hari , Paleologos Katrina E. , Brantley Jayla , Nguyen Vy , Mathew Mahesh , van de Ligt Amanda J.
Published: May 2020

Inclusion of multiple viewpoints increases when teams are diverse and provides value in scientific communication and discovery. To promote retention and raise the critical mass of underrepresented persons in science, all voices must be heard “at the table” to include “ways of knowing” outside the dominant institutional culture. These community-based inclusive concepts promote hearing all diverse perspectives for inclusive recognition of deeper socio-historical cultural wealth—collectively termed cultural wellness. When undergraduates and graduates in active-learning groups in class, or faculty collaborative teams on campus, start a project too quickly on task, opportunities are missed to be inclusive. While beginning a larger science project, we, student and faculty co-authors, first addressed this challenge —the need for greater inclusion of diverse perspectives—by starting a conversation. Here, we share ideas from our inclusive process. Based on social constructivist theories of co-constructing learning interpersonally, we co-mentored each other, learning from one another in community. We experientially considered how to inclusively collaborate across a demographically, geographically, and structurally heterogeneous group including multiple academic tiers from multiple ethnic backgrounds, cultural experiences, and institutions. Through an asset-based process grounded in several frameworks, we documented our introduction process of listening deeply, being mindful of identities including invisible cultural identities, recognizing each other with mutual respect, applying inclusive practices, and developing mutual trust and understanding. Building community takes time. Initial conversations can, and should, go deeper than mere introductions to build trust beyond social norms for relationships promoting cultural wellness.
Insights from the Inclusive Environments and Metrics in Biology Education and Research Network: Our Experience Organizing Inclusive Biology Education Research Events
Authors: Campbell-Montalvo Rebecca A. , Caporale Natalia , McDowell Gary S. , Idlebird Candice , Wiens Katie M. , Jackson Kimberly M. , Marcette Jana D. , Moore Michael E.
Published: May 2020

In contrast to efforts focusing on improving inclusion in STEM classrooms from kindergarten through undergraduate (K–16), efforts to improve inclusion in scientific meetings and conferences, important hubs of STEM culture, are more recent. Markers of inclusion that are sometimes overlooked at these events can include the composition of panels, how workshops are run, the affordability of conferences, and various other mechanisms that maintain pre-existing hierarchies and norms that limit the participation of early-career researchers and individuals of minoritized cultural, linguistic, and economic backgrounds. The Inclusive Environments and Metrics in Biology Education and Research (iEMBER) network coordinates efforts of researchers from many fields interested in diversity and inclusion in biology education. Given the concerns regarding inclusion at professional meetings, iEMBER has developed and implemented several practices in planning and executing our meetings to make them more inclusive. In this report, we share our experiences developing inclusive meetings on biology education research and discuss the outcomes of such efforts. Specifically, we present our approach to planning and executing the iEMBER 2019 conference and the National Association of Biology Teachers iEMBER 2019 workshop. This report adds to the growing body of resources on inclusive meetings, provides readers with an account of how such an attempt at implementation might unfold, and complements existing theories and work relating to the importance and functioning of such meetings in terms of representation in STEM.
Culturally Relevant Pedagogy: A Model To Guide Cultural Transformation in STEM Departments
Authors: Johnson Angela , Elliott Samantha
Published: May 2020

Despite recent interest and pressing need, we lack a clear model of culturally relevant, responsive, sensitive teaching in university STEM departments. Most culturally relevant efforts within STEM education address actions individual professors can take within their own classrooms and mentoring, rather than describing how to go about enacting cultural transformation at the departmental level. In this article, we propose the application of the Ladson-Billings model of culturally relevant pedagogy to promote an inclusive culture within undergraduate STEM departments. The model consists of three components: academic success, cultural competence and integrity, and critical consciousness. We define each component and describe what it looks like and how it can be used to guide departmental transformation, including examples in biology, physics, mathematics, and computer science departments at our own institution. This model can help guide faculty committed to creating departments where all kinds of STEM students can thrive, provided they are willing to work hard.
Draft Genome Sequence of a Streptococcus suis Isolate from a Case of Cattle Meningitis
Authors: Okwumabua Ogi , Williamson Charles H. D. , Pearson Talima R. , Sahl Jason W.
Published: May 2020

Streptococcus suis
is primarily a pig pathogen and a zoonotic agent. Recently, the isolation of
S. suis
strain 10-36905 from a case of meningitis in cattle was reported. The draft genome sequence of this isolate demonstrates its divergent relationship with other
S. suis
strains.
Complete Genome Sequence of Tetracycline-Resistant Serratia liquefaciens S1, Isolated from Mixed Greens, Obtained Using Illumina MiSeq and Oxford Nanopore MinION Sequencing
Authors: Stein Maria , Brinks Erik , Rathje Jana , Cho Gyu-Sung , Franz Charles M. A. P.
Published: May 2020

Serratia liquefaciens
strain S1 was isolated from mixed greens and sequenced with short-read Illumina MiSeq technology and long-read MinION technology. Hybrid sequence assembly generated a complete single circular chromosome and two extrachromosomal contigs, which together encoded 5,098 proteins, 85 tRNAs, and 22 rRNAs.
Genome Sequence of Fusarium graminearum Strain CML3066, Isolated from a Wheat Spike in Southern Brazil
Authors: Machado Wood Ana K. , King Robert , Urban Martin , Nicolli Camila P. , Del Ponte Emerson M. , Hammond-Kosack Kim E.
Published: May 2020

Fusarium graminearum
is a global fungal pathogen of wheat and other small grains, causing
Fusarium
head blight (FHB) disease, also known as wheat scab. We report here the annotated genome of a deoxynivalenol/15-acetyl-deoxynivalenol-producing Brazilian strain called CML3066, isolated from FHB-symptomatic wheat spikes collected in 2009.
Complete Genome Sequence of Mameliella alba Strain KU6B, a Cyclohexylamine-Utilizing Marine Bacterium
Authors: Yamamoto Taisei , Liu Yaxuan , Hasegawa Yoshie , Iwaki Hiroaki
Published: May 2020

Here, we report the complete genome sequence of
Mameliella alba
strain KU6B, a bacterium newly isolated from seawater of Boso Peninsula in Japan that is capable of utilizing cyclohexylamine. The complete genome contained a 5,386,988-bp circular chromosome and three circular plasmids of 256,516, 112,434, and 76,727 bp.
Complete Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas balearica Strain EC28, an Iron-Oxidizing Bacterium Isolated from Corroded Steel
Authors: Salgar-Chaparro Silvia J. , Castillo-Villamizar Genis , Poehlein Anja , Daniel Rolf , Machuca Laura L.
Published: May 2020

Pseudomonas balearica
strain EC28 is an iron-oxidizing bacterium isolated from corroded steel at a floating production storage and offloading facility in Australia. Here, we report its complete genome sequence, which comprises 4,642,566 bp with a GC content of 64.43%. The genome harbors 4,164 predicted protein-encoding genes.
Draft Genome Sequence of Clostridium estertheticum-like Strain FP4, Isolated from Spoiled Uncooked Lamb
Authors: Palevich Nikola , Palevich Faith P. , Maclean Paul H. , Jauregui Ruy , Altermann Eric , Mills John , Brightwell Gale
Published: May 2020

In order to improve the phylogenetic resolution of the genus
Clostridium
and our limited knowledge of meat spoilage caused by
Clostridium estertheticum
, the genome of
C. estertheticum
-like strain FP4 was sequenced. Here, we describe the 4.1-Mb draft genome sequence of
C. estertheticum
-like strain FP4, isolated from vacuum-packaged refrigerated spoiled lamb.
Draft Genome Sequence of an Isolate of Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae from an Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Tasmania
Authors: KC Rajendra , Leong Kelvin W. C. , McEwan Belinda , Lachowicz Julia , Harkness Nicholas M. , Petrovski Steve , Karupiah Gunasegaran , O’Toole Ronan F.
Published: May 2020

Nontypeable
Haemophilus influenzae
(NTHi) is an important cause of human illness, including pneumonia and acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We report here the draft genome of an isolate of NTHi collected from the sputum of a patient presenting with COPD in Tasmania, Australia.
Draft Genome Sequence of Klebsiella pneumoniae UMB7783, Isolated from the Female Bladder
Authors: Balce Erika , Miller-Ensminger Taylor , Voukadinova Adelina , Wolfe Alan J. , Putonti Catherine
Published: May 2020

Klebsiella pneumoniae
is a Gram-negative bacterium that is highly pathogenic and frequently resistant to antibiotics. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
K. pneumoniae
strain UMB7783, isolated from the female bladder.
The Transcriptional Aftermath in Two Independently Formed Hybrids of the Opportunistic Pathogen Candida orthopsilosis
Authors: Hovhannisyan Hrant , Saus Ester , Ksiezopolska Ewa , Gabaldón Toni
Published: May 2020

How new pathogens emerge is an important question that remains largely unanswered. Some emerging yeast pathogens are hybrids originated through the crossing of two different species, but how hybridization contributes to higher virulence is unclear. Here, we show that hybrids selectively retain gene regulation plasticity inherited from the two parents and that this plasticity affects genes involved in virulence.
Teamwork in a pandemic: insights from management research
Authors: Mayo Anna T
Published: May 2020

Background

Amidst the unprecedented outbreak of COVID-19, it is both critical and increasingly difficult for healthcare professionals to engage in the teamwork that will underlie an effective response to the pandemic. The simultaneous need for and challenge to teamwork, though, is not unique to healthcare.

Results

Drawing on management and organisational research conducted in healthcare as well as other industries, this article offers an overview of key, and robust, findings that highlight both what teamwork looks like and how to achieve it. I focus on two aspects of teamwork (the coordination of expertise and communication), and I review how leaders can jumpstart them by leveraging mechanisms including framing the work, using communication structures and engaging in leader inclusiveness.
More philosophical work needed in One Health on ethical frameworks and theory
Authors: Johnson Jane , Degeling Chris
Published: May 2020

We thank Zohar Lederman and Benjamin Capps for engaging with our paper on One Health (OH) and ethical frameworks, however we want to take issue with them on three points. First, they appear to misunderstand the distinction we appeal to between ethical theory and ethical frameworks, and so misinterpret what we are trying to achieve in our paper. Second, in spite of what they seem to imply, we agree that an OH approach can obscure differences in values, and that to progress the field there needs to be recognition of competing values and their implications for OH. Finally, we are puzzled by their interest in pursuing a deliberative process, as this seems at odds with other positions they take in their paper, and also opens up many questions that need to be addressed.