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Identifying the factors that influence the citation of articles helps authors improve the impact and reach of their research. Analysis of publications in the Journal of Fish Biology between 2008 and 2021 revealed that variables such as the number of keywords, abstract length, number of authors, and page length were associated with higher impact papers. These trends applied to both review and regular papers. These findings suggest that papers that are more informative, have higher numbers of authors, and have more keywords are more likely to be cited. Adoption of some simple "best‐practice" behaviors can improve the likelihood that a paper is cited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Society for the Study of Species Biology has announced the recipient of the 17th Plant Species Biology Best Paper Award. The winning paper, titled "Environmental and genetic effects on phenotypic differences between Elaeocarpus photiniifolia ecotypes in dry and mesic habitats on a Japanese oceanic island," explores how different environmental conditions have led to reproductive isolation and genetic differentiation in a specific plant species. Another paper, titled "The epiphytic orchid Vanda falcata is predominantly associated with a single Tulasnellaceae fungus in adulthood, and Ceratobasidiaceae fungi strongly induce its seed germination in vitro," investigates the symbiotic relationships between orchids and mycorrhizal fungi at different stages of growth. Both papers are featured in recent issues of Plant Species Biology. [Extracted from the article]

Not only leaf cutting (imitation of damage by leaf-cutting ants, I Crematogaster i ) but also experimental fire induced more extrafloral nectaries and nectar production in new leaves, implying an adaptive response following rapid regrowth that produces tender leaves prone to be attacked by herbivores. B Marina Neves Delgado, Helena Castanheira de Morais, and Davi Rodrigo Rossatto, 37(4): 268-277 b Title: The role of leaf cutting and fire on extrafloral nectaries and nectar production in I Stryphnodendron adstringens i (Fabaceae, Mimosoideae) plants https://doi.org/10.1111/1442-1984.12373 The authors aimed to clarify the effect of leaf damage on extrafloral nectaries and nectar production (Figures 1 and 2). (b) and (c) Crematogaster ants visiting the extrafloral nectary (EFN) at the base of the petiole. [Extracted from the article]

There is a tension at the heart of Aristotle's understanding of organic activities, created by his appeals to the productive activities of craftsmen and his use of normative language to characterize the goals of such activities. In this paper I discuss two ways of interpreting Aristotle's teleology aimed at resolving this tension, and discuss a closely analogous tension at the heart of a number of contemporary defenses of teleological reasoning in biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently 1677 species are listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA), yet only a small percentage have been delisted due to recovery. In the fall of 2021, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed delisting 23 species due to extinction. Tracking changes in species 'recovery status over time is critical to understanding species' statuses, informing adaptive management strategies, and assessing the performance of the ESA to prevent further species loss. In this paper, we describe four key obstacles in tracking species recovery status under the ESA. First, ESA 5‐year reviews lack a standardized format and clear documentation. Second, despite having been listed for decades, many species still suffer major data gaps in their biology and threats, rendering it difficult if not impossible to track progress towards recovery. Third, many species have continued declining after listing, yet given the above (1 & 2), understanding potential causes (proximate and/or ultimate) can be difficult. Fourth, many species currently have no path to clear recovery, which represents a potential failing of the process. We conclude with a discussion of potential policy responses that could be addressed to enhance the efficacy of the ESA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With the rapid proliferation of online education, it is incumbent upon teachers to find ways to provide online students with science laboratory experiences. Existing research on online labs focuses heavily on computer‐supported inquiry learning environments, such as virtual laboratories and remote laboratories. There are limited studies on kitchen labs or home labs. Objectives: This study investigated the effectiveness of home labs using lab kits from two perspectives: students' perceptions and experiences of labs conducted in a home environment, as well as whether home labs help with students' knowledge acquisition. Methods: This study employed lab quizzes to assess students' performance and lab reports to evaluate students' ability to interpret the lab results accurately in the authentic home lab contexts. Surveys and semi‐structured interviews were used to collect students' perceptions and experience data regarding these hands‐on experiments at home. Results and Conclusions: We found that students' perceptions of home labs are similar to that of face‐to‐face labs, but they generally perceive home labs to be less complex. Students' performances on lab quizzes and lab reports indicate that the majority of them were able to apply the key scientific concepts to accurately interpret lab results in authentic home lab contexts. Students perceived that home labs provide flexibility and help in connecting learning to the real world. However, they also face challenges such as unexpected results and ambiguity during the process. Implications: Based on the key findings from this study and our reflections, four practice guidelines were provided for teaching hands‐on experiments online. Lay Description: What is already known about this topic: Science‐laboratory activities play a critical role in science education. The lack of best practices for teaching science laboratory activities online has become one of the most significant barriers to online education.Existing online labs research focuses heavily on computer‐supported inquiry learning environments, such as virtual laboratories and remote laboratories. There are limited studies on kitchen labs or home labs and some research has mainly an exploratory nature. What this paper adds: The value of authentic hands‐on learning experience is more than the acquisition of laboratory design skills, but also the acquisition of problem‐solving skills in real‐world.This study reported findings of the evaluation of hands‐on home laboratory activities in an online science course from both students' perception and their knowledge acquisition perspectives.This study also explored the benefits and challenges students faced in home labs. Implication for practice and/or policy: Practical guidance and implications for teaching and learning science online using laboratory activities were provided by sharing our experience and lessons learned through the whole process.We recommend that practitioners incorporate more scaffolding and peer collaboration opportunities as well as key concept reflection as teaching strategies to improve the effectiveness of home lab activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Telomere biology disorder (TBD) can present within a wide spectrum of symptoms ranging from severe congenital malformations to isolated organ dysfunction in adulthood. Diagnosing TBD can be challenging given the substantial variation in symptoms and age of onset across generations. In this report, we present two families, one with a pathogenic variant in ZCCHC8 and another with a novel variant in TERC. In the literature, only one family has previously been reported with a ZCCHC8 variant and TBD symptoms. This family had multiple occurrences of pulmonary fibrosis and one case of bone marrow failure. In this paper, we present a second family with the same ZCCHC8 variant (p.Pro186Leu) and symptoms of TBD including pulmonary fibrosis, hematological disease, and elevated liver enzymes. The suspicion of TBD was confirmed with the measurement of short telomeres in the proband. In another family, we report a novel likely pathogenic variant in TERC. Our comprehensive description encompasses hematological manifestations, as well as pulmonary and hepatic fibrosis. Notably, there are no other reports which associate this variant to disease. The families expand our understanding of the clinical implications and genetic causes of TBD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While the effectiveness of tutoring‐style videos has been reported in previous studies conducted in laboratories, how these types of videos facilitate students' learning experiences and achievement has not been much explored in prior studies, which prevents discussion on how to design such tutoring‐style videos. Objectives: In this study, we addressed the limitations reported in studies conducted in authentic classes and attempted to explore students' learning patterns and experiences with tutoring‐style videos involving interactions between the instructor and agents. In addition, we attempted to reveal what instructional strategies can be used in tutoring‐style videos to enhance students' engagement and achievement. Methods: The study took place in an undergraduate introductory biology class offered at a university located in the Midwest of the United States. The same instructor taught two sections of this course which lasted for 15 weeks during a Spring semester. The two sections were randomly assigned to an experimental group in which participants watched tutoring‐style videos and a control group with participants watching traditional videos. The experiment was administered in a module lasting two and a half weeks focused on microbiology. Surveys and tests were conducted to determine whether the tutoring‐style videos had a positive impact on student engagement and achievement. In addition, a video content analysis was carried out to elicit insights on how to design effective tutoring‐style videos. Results: For students' emotional engagement and perceived usefulness, no significant difference was found between the two groups, even though the descriptive statistics indicated slightly higher scores from the experimental group than the control group on both subscales. In terms of achievement, the participants reported significantly more learned concepts from watching rich‐interactions in the tutoring‐style videos than the participants in the control group; and they also reported a significantly smaller number of learned concepts from watching one‐interactions in the videos than the control group participants. We also found that instruction in the tutoring‐style videos used effective strategies for facilitating students' participation and cognitive processing. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that tutoring‐style videos can be effective learning materials by allowing students to engage in interactions between instructors and agents in the videos. The more instructional strategies used to facilitate the interactions between the instructor and the agents, the higher engagement can be expected from viewers. Our study would inform the design and development of effective tutoring‐style videos. Lay Description: What is already known about this topic: One‐on‐one tutoring is the gold standard in teaching.Tutoring‐style videos are found to be effective in teaching as well. What this paper adds: Tutoring‐style videos that film rich interactions lead to better learning.Tutoring‐style videos that film limited interactions are ineffective.Students who see agents in tutoring‐style videos as helpful perform better. Implications for practice and/or policy: Tutoring‐style videos should film rich interactions of tutoring sessions.Strategies should be used in videos to facilitate perceived agents' usefulness.Tutoring sessions filmed in videos should encourage a participatory atmosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper celebrates the life and legacy of psychiatrist and Jungian author Anthony Stevens, who passed away at age 90 on July 13, 2023. It outlines Stevens's origins as a research fellow in Greece, where his work on infant attachment led to a lifelong dedication to establishing the biological and evolutionary foundation of psychiatry. It details his instrumental role in the debate about the theory of archetypes and describes the current state of the literature including the responses and reactions to Stevens's biological innatist position. The paper concludes with a career retrospective in which Stevens's major works are introduced and briefly described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A practical method for collecting, storing, and transporting liquid biological samples in a dry state for subsequent hormone metabolite analyses is presented. This method employs the use of ordinary filter paper strips that imbibe liquid samples. Samples taken up by the filter paper were allowed to dry and were retained at ambient conditions in capped vials for up to 5 years prior to analysis. Examples presented in the present report include urine samples from human and nonhuman primates as well as solubilized fecal samples from nonhuman primates. Hormone metabolite analysis of the paper-stored samples provided data that were comparable to the results obtained from analyses of the original liquid samples. One year of storage had no effect on hormone concentration. Five years of storage resulted in concentrations that were quantitatively less bat qualitatively similar to the concentrations obtained by direct analysis of the initial samples. These data demonstrate the versatility and reliability of paper as a matrix for biological samples that may provide a more convenient approach for collecting and transporting samples collected in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open access (OA) publishing, whereby authors, their institutions, or their granting bodies pay or provide a repository through which peer-reviewed work is available online for free, is championed as a model to increase the number of citations per paper and disseminate results widely, especially to researchers in developing countries. We compared the number of citations of OA and non-OA papers in six journals and four books published since 2000 to test whether OA increases number of citations overall and increases citations made by authors in developing countries. After controlling for type of paper (e.g., review or research paper), length of paper, authors’ citation profiles, number of authors per paper, and whether the author or the publisher released the paper in OA, OA had no statistically significant influence on the overall number of citations per journal paper. Journal papers were cited more frequently if the authors had published highly cited papers previously, were members of large teams of authors, or published relatively long papers, but papers were not cited more frequently if they were published in an OA source. Nevertheless, author-archived OA book chapters accrued up to eight times more citations than chapters in the same book that were not available through OA, perhaps because there is no online abstracting service for book chapters. There was also little evidence that journal papers or book chapters published in OA received more citations from authors in developing countries relative to those journal papers or book chapters not published in OA. For scholarly publications in conservation biology, only book chapters had an OA citation advantage, and OA did not increase the number of citations papers or chapters received from authors in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thomas Cavalier‐Smith, born in London, U.K., on October 21, 1942, was a Professor of Evolutionary Biology in the Department of Zoology at the University of Oxford at the time of his death on March 19, 2021. Credited with at least 235 research works and over 20,000 citations, Cavalier‐Smith was a well‐known and widely respected scientist who took a bold and detailed approach to understanding major transitions in evolution, including the role of endosymbiosis. He was noted for his willingness to question theories and constantly accumulate and evaluate data, motivated by science for the sake of science. This paper reviews Thomas Cavalier‐Smith's major accomplishments, examines his theoretical approaches, and provides highlights from the "Tree of Life Symposium" sponsored by the International Society of Protistologists (ISOP) and the International Society of Evolutionary Protistology (ISEP) on June 21, 2021, to celebrate Tom's life and work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In cold agglutinin disease, monoclonal red blood cell autoantibodies, termed cold agglutinins, induce haemolysis in patients exposed to the cold. Commonly, these autoantibodies are directed against the developmentally regulated I/i blood groups. A second blood group system, the Pr system (located on glycophorins), is involved less frequently. Anti-Pr cold agglutinins recognize either alpha 2,3- or alpha 2,6-linked N-acetylneuraminic acid as the immunodominant group. Cold agglutinins of anti-I/i specificity show a remarkable restriction in their genomic repertoire of the immunoglobulin heavy and light-chain immunoglobulin-variable domain (i.e. exclusive use of VH4-34 in heavy chains). For anti-Pr cold agglutinins, preliminary data on the repertoire of the light-chain variable domain indicate a preference for the subgroup Vkappa IV. To elucidate restrictions in the light-chain variable-domain subgroup repertoire of anti-Pr cold agglutinins systematically, and to discuss these results in the context of their anti-Pr1–3 subclassification and immunodominant sialic acid, light chains in 13 anti-Pr cold agglutinins were investigated. The anti-Pr light chains were isolated using temperature-dependent absorption/elution techniques. Subsequently, they were subjected to N-terminal Edman degradation, and the light chain Vkappa subgroup was affiliated using the Kabat database. Five of 13 (38%) light chains belonged to Vkappa IV, five of 13 (38%) to Vkappa I and three of 13 (23%) to Vkappa III. Anti-Pr with Vkappa IV subgroup light chains exclusively recognized alpha 2,3-linked N-acetylneuraminic acid. Including data from the literature, the repertoire of the light-chain variable domain in pathological anti-Pr cold agglutinins exhibits a clear bias towards the use of the single germline gene-derived subgroup, Vkappa IV (eight of 17 or 47%). The association of Vkappa IV subgroup light chain-containing anti-Pr cold agglutinins with binding to alpha 2,3-, but not alpha 2,6-linked N-acetyneuraminic acid raises speculations about a possible role of subgroup-derived determinants in anti-Pr binding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Local-regional (LR) species diversity plots were conceived to assess the contribution of regional and local processes in shaping the patterns of biological diversity, but have been used also to explore the scaling of diversity in terms of its alpha, beta, and gamma components. Here we explore the idea that patterns in the geographical ranges of species over a continent can determine the shape of small region to large region (SRLR) plots, which are equivalent to LR plots when comparing the diversity of sites at two regional scales. To test that idea, we analysed the diversity patterns at two regional scales for the mammals of North America, defined as the mainland from Alaska and Canada to Panama. We developed a theoretical model relating average range size of species over a large-scale region with its average regional point species diversity (RPD). Then, we generated a null model of expected SRLR plots based on theoretical predictions. Species diversities at two scales were modelled using linear and saturation functions for Type I and Type II SRLR relationships, respectively. We applied the models to the case of North American mammals by examining the regional diversity and the RPD for 21 large-scale quadrats (with area equal to 160,000 km2), arranged along a latitudinal gradient. Our model showed that continental and large-scale regional patterns of distribution of species can generate both types of SRLR relationship, and that these patterns can be reflected in LR plots without invoking any kind of local processes. We found that North American nonvolant mammals follow a Type I SRLR relationship, whereas bats follow a Type II pattern. This difference was linked to patterns in which species of the two mammalian groups distribute in geographical space. Traditional LR plots and the new SRLR plots are useful tools in exploring the scaling of species diversity and in showing the relationship between distribution and diversity. Their usefulness in comparing the relative role of local and regional processes is, however, very limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To quantify the latitudinal gradient in species richness in the New World Triatominae and to explore the species-energy and area hypotheses as possible causes. The gradient was studied for North and South America, between 43° N and 32° S. A database was constructed containing the geographical distribution of the 118 New World Triatominae species based on data extracted from several published sources. Species richness was recorded as the number of species present within 5° latitudinal bands. We used univariate and multivariate models to analyse the relationship between area within each latitudinal belt, land surface temperature, and potential evapotranspiration as explanatory variables, and species richness. All variables were georeferenced and data were extracted using a GIS. Species richness of Triatominae increases significantly from the poles towards the Equator, peaking over the 5°−10 ° S latitudinal band. It increases according to a linear model, both north and south of the Equator, although a quadratic model fits better to southern hemisphere data. Richness correlates with habitable geographical area, when it is analysed through a nonlinear multiple regression factoring out latitude, only in the southern hemisphere. Regarding the species-energy hypothesis, a multiple regression analysis controlling the effect of latitude shows a significant relationship between temperature and species richness. This effect is more pronounced in the southern hemisphere. Species richness shows a strong longitudinal trend south of the Equator (increasing to the east), but not north of the Equator. This differential pattern is reflected in significant interactions between longitude and both latitude and temperature in models of the species richness of the New World Triatominae. To our knowledge, this is the first time that a latitudinal gradient in species richness has been shown and analysed for obligate haematophagous organisms, and it shows that the species–energy hypothesis can account for this phenomenon. This relationship is stronger in the southern hemisphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Litter decay dynamics of paper birch (Betula papyrifera) were assessed at the Aspen free-air CO2 enrichment (FACE) facility in northern Wisconsin, USA. Leaf litter was decomposed for 12 months under factorial combinations of 360 vs. 560 μL CO2 L−1, crossed with 36 vs. 55 nL O3 L−1. To differentiate between substrate quality and environment effects, litterbags were placed in their Native Plots of origin or transplanted into the other treatments. CO2 enrichment, regardless of O3 concentration, produced poorer quality litter (high C/N, lignin/N and condensed tannins) than did ambient CO2 (low C/N, lignin/N and condensed tannins). Substrate quality differences were reflected in the mass loss rates (k-values), which were high for litter generated under ambient CO2 (0.887 year−1) and low for litter generated under elevated CO2 (0.674 year−1). The rate-retarding effects of CO2 enrichment were neither alleviated nor exacerbated by O3 exposure. Decay rates varied, however, depending on whether litter was placed back into its plot of origin or transplanted to Common Gardens. The results of this study are species specific, but they have important implications for understanding the processes regulating storage of fixed C and the release of CO2 from northern forest ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The envelope method produces efficient estimation in multivariate linear regression, and is widely applied in biology, psychology, and economics. This paper estimates parameters through a model averaging methodology and promotes the predicting abilities of the envelope models. We propose a frequentist model averaging method by minimizing a cross‐validation criterion. When all the candidate models are misspecified, the proposed model averaging estimator is proved to be asymptotically optimal. When correct candidate models exist, the coefficient estimator is proved to be consistent, and the sum of the weights assigned to the correct models, in probability, converges to one. Simulations and an empirical application demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the trends in submissions and publications for the Annals of Applied Biology journal. While there was a steady increase in submissions until 2021, there was a reduction in submissions in 2022 and 2023. However, the number of published papers remained consistent. The journal encourages researchers to consider submitting their work to Annals of Applied Biology and highlights the various types of publications they accept. The article also acknowledges the support of the Association of Applied Biologists and Wiley in promoting and publishing the journal. Special issues linked to AAB-organized events are also announced, and new editors are welcomed to the board. The article concludes by inviting readers to follow the journal on social media and providing links to the journal's website and the AAB website. [Extracted from the article]

Aim: To examine the different methods currently used in molecular biogeography. Methods of interpreting evolution in space (ancestral‐area algorithms) always find a centre of origin for a group in the region of a paraphyletic basal grade, although regionally restricted basal grades can also be generated by simple vicariance. Current analyses of the timeline of evolution are usually based on the conversion of fossil‐calibrated ages (minimum clade ages) into maximum clade ages by imposing arbitrary, subjective priors. Thus, methods of analysing both space and time in evolution are flawed in theory. They are also inefficient in practice, as indicated by recent papers on the history of the New Caledonian biota, examined here as a case‐study. Work using current methods has left the phenomena as unexplained 'conundrums' and 'enigmas'. Location: New Caledonia and surrounding areas. Taxon: Various plants and animals. Methods: The method favoured here is a synthesis of biogeography and geology. Tectonic features that coincide spatially with phylogenetic breaks (nodes) are identified. Fossils are used to provide estimates of minimum clade age, while the age of the tectonic features provides estimate of actual clade age. If the sequence of nodes in the phylogeny and the chronological sequence of the tectonic events match, a coherent sequence of vicariance events is indicated. Results: Several critical studies on New Caledonian biogeography have been published in the last 5 years. The results from these can be analysed using revised methodology and integrated to give an alternative model of regional history. Main Conclusions: The synthesis of geology and biology suggests a new interpretation of the New Caledonian biota, one in which the key processes are tectonic history, vicariance and metapopulation dynamics, rather than chance dispersal (as a mode of speciation), adaptation and radiation. The new model recognises the autochthonous, Mesozoic roots of many New Caledonian lineages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaria remains a threat to global public health and the available antimalarial drugs are undermined by side effects and parasite resistance, suggesting an emphasis on new potential targets. Among the novel targets, Plasmodium falciparum autophagy‐related proteins (PfAtg) remain a priority. In this paper, we reviewed the existing knowledge on the functions and structural biology of PfAtg including the compounds with inhibitory activity toward P. falciparum Atg8‐Atg3 protein–protein interaction (PfAtg8‐PfAtg3 PPI). A total of five PfAtg (PfAtg5, PfAtg8, PfAtg12, PfAtg18, and Rab7) were observed to have autophagic and/or non‐autophagic roles. Available data showed that PfAtg8 has conserved hydrophobic pockets, which allows it to interact with PfAtg3 to form PfAtg8‐PfAtg3 PPI. Additionally, 2‐bromo‐N‐(4‐pyridin‐2‐yl‐1,3‐thiazol‐2‐yl) benzamide was identified as the most powerful inhibitor of PfAtg8‐PfAtg3 PPI. Due to the dearth of knowledge in this field, we hope that the article would open an avenue to further research on the remaining PfAtg as possible drug candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a powerful tool for analyzing the biochemical properties of biological samples such as proteins, cellular materials, and tissues. It provides objective information on samples and has been adopted in many research areas of biomedical and biotechnological interest. FTIR spectroscopy can be performed using different approaches at the macro and micro levels allowing the examination of an incredibly broad class of materials. However, it has become evident that the choice of proper spectra acquisition geometries and the modalities of sample preparation in FTIR spectroscopy analysis require special consideration, especially for certain classes of materials such as cells and tissues. In the present paper, we described the different procedures used for preparing and analyzing different types of biological and biotechnological samples when the more largely available approaches are employed using a commercial FTIR spectrometer. Some basic aspects of data analysis procedures are presented in an Appendix. A certain number of our previous experimental results are reported for demonstrating once more the versatility and the potentiality of FTIR spectroscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The professional knowledge of pre‐service teachers is highly important for effective and successful teaching. In recent years, many research groups have been engaged in developing simulated classroom environments to capture especially the pedagogical knowledge (PK) of pre‐service teachers, neglecting the content‐related facets of professional knowledge such as pedagogical content knowledge (PCK). Objectives: In the present study, we describe the development of a simulated classroom environment—the Simulated Classroom Biology (SCRBio)—and provide evidence regarding its validity to assess pre‐service biology teachers' action‐oriented PCK in the area of evolution. Methods: This study examined the evidence supporting the validity of using the SCRBio to investigate action‐oriented PCK of pre‐service biology teachers. The (1) evidence based on test content (expert ratings) and the (2) evidence based on relation to other variables (known‐groups comparison) was obtained. We tested the SCRBio with N = 76 German pre‐service biology teachers. Results and Conclusions: Our results show the successfully operationalized PCK in the SCRBio through explicit allocation of specific misconceptions to each virtual student's answer and the valid measurement of pre‐service biology teachers' action‐oriented PCK. This results in a validated simulated classroom environment for pre‐service but also in‐service teachers. In the future, the SCRBio will be developed from an assessment instrument to a training tool to simulate explicit teaching situations. This allows to complement the predominantly theoretical components of university‐based teacher education with practice‐based simulated classroom environments. Lay Description: What is already known about this topic: The professional knowledge of pre‐service teachers is a prerequisite for quality teaching in the future, as well as student achievement.Simulated classroom environments are already being used, primarily to examine and train the pedagogical knowledge of pre‐service teachers.The action‐oriented character of simulated classroom environments can bridge the theory‐practice gap of university‐based education programs. What this paper adds: Description of an innovative simulated classroom environment—the Simulated Classroom Biology.Ability to capture several domains of professional knowledge in an action‐oriented setting.Validation of the Simulated Classroom Biology using various validity aspects.Implications of study findings for practitioners.Description of validation steps for developing simulated classroom environments.A validated simulated classroom environment is provided to capture various knowledge domains of professional knowledge in an actionable setting.The Simulated Classroom Biology can be adapted to new subjects and teaching topics by changing the content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the early 1990s, ecologists and evolutionary biologists have aggregated primary research using meta‐analytic methods to understand ecological and evolutionary phenomena. Meta‐analyses can resolve long‐standing disputes, dispel spurious claims, and generate new research questions. At their worst, however, meta‐analysis publications are wolves in sheep's clothing: subjective with biased conclusions, hidden under coats of objective authority. Conclusions can be rendered unreliable by inappropriate statistical methods, problems with the methods used to select primary research, or problems within the primary research itself. Because of these risks, meta‐analyses are increasingly conducted as part of systematic reviews, which use structured, transparent, and reproducible methods to collate and summarise evidence. For readers to determine whether the conclusions from a systematic review or meta‐analysis should be trusted – and to be able to build upon the review – authors need to report what they did, why they did it, and what they found. Complete, transparent, and reproducible reporting is measured by 'reporting quality'. To assess perceptions and standards of reporting quality of systematic reviews and meta‐analyses published in ecology and evolutionary biology, we surveyed 208 researchers with relevant experience (as authors, reviewers, or editors), and conducted detailed evaluations of 102 systematic review and meta‐analysis papers published between 2010 and 2019. Reporting quality was far below optimal and approximately normally distributed. Measured reporting quality was lower than what the community perceived, particularly for the systematic review methods required to measure trustworthiness. The minority of assessed papers that referenced a guideline (~16%) showed substantially higher reporting quality than average, and surveyed researchers showed interest in using a reporting guideline to improve reporting quality. The leading guideline for improving reporting quality of systematic reviews is the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Here we unveil an extension of PRISMA to serve the meta‐analysis community in ecology and evolutionary biology: PRISMA‐EcoEvo (version 1.0). PRISMA‐EcoEvo is a checklist of 27 main items that, when applicable, should be reported in systematic review and meta‐analysis publications summarising primary research in ecology and evolutionary biology. In this explanation and elaboration document, we provide guidance for authors, reviewers, and editors, with explanations for each item on the checklist, including supplementary examples from published papers. Authors can consult this PRISMA‐EcoEvo guideline both in the planning and writing stages of a systematic review and meta‐analysis, to increase reporting quality of submitted manuscripts. Reviewers and editors can use the checklist to assess reporting quality in the manuscripts they review. Overall, PRISMA‐EcoEvo is a resource for the ecology and evolutionary biology community to facilitate transparent and comprehensively reported systematic reviews and meta‐analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents abstracts of articles about immunogenetics presented at the 15th Conference of the British Society for Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics in Dublin, Ireland on October 13-15, 2004. Range of topics; Classifications and categories; Names of auithors; Contact information.

Evolutionary developmental biology, and especially ecological developmental biology, is essential for discussions of sustainability and the responses to global climate change. First, this paper explores examples of animals that have successfully altered their development to accommodate human‐made changes to their environments. We next document the ability of global warming to disrupt the development of those organisms with temperature‐dependent sex‐determination or with phenologies coordinating that organism's development with those of other species. The thermotolerance of Homo sapiens is also related to key developmental factors concerning brain development and maintenance, and the development of corals, the keystone organisms of tropical reefs, is discussed in relation to global warming as well as to other anthropogenic changes. While teratogenic and endocrine‐disrupting compounds are not discussed in this essay, the ability of glyphosate herbicides to block insect development is highlighted. Last, the paper discusses the need to creatively integrate developmental biology with ecological, political, religious, and economic perspectives, as the flourishing of contemporary species may require altering the ways that Western science has considered the categories of nature, culture, and self. Research Highlights: Knowledge of developmental biology is critical for discussions of sustainability and for the possibilities of multispecies flourishing. Endangered coral reefs and turtle species highlight the developmental interactions between the biotic and abiotic portions of the environment. Developmental biology must interact creatively with philosophy, economics, religion, politics in order for environmental survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This contribution shares experience of teaching an interdisciplinary university course in crystal growth with examples ranging from geology to biology. This is an attempt to combine teaching the basics of the classical and non‐classical theories of crystallization with impressive examples of crystals growing around us and in the human body, as well as demonstration of the common phenomena in the growth of minerals in nature, crystalline materials in industry and the laboratory, and biomimetic and stimulus‐responsive crystals. Lectures are supported by laboratory exercises. Students can also perform an individual research project and present an oral contribution at a mini‐conference. Examples of the topics considered in the course are given, and an extensive list of references to papers and web resources is provided, which may be useful to those who want to implement anything from the authors' experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gymnopus fusipes (syn. Collybia fusipes; syn. Agaricus fusipes) is an agaricomycete fungus known to cause root rot on a number of economically important tree species, including oak, where it has been linked to the development of chronic oak decline. Due to lack of correlation between above‐ground decline symptoms and G. fusipes infection, its presence can often go undiagnosed until mortality. Although G. fusipes was first described over 200 years ago, there is still a paucity of information on the biology and ecology of this species, which represents a barrier to understanding its impacts on tree health. The aim of this review was to synthesize existing knowledge on the biology, ecology, host range and host interactions of G. fusipes. Using a systematic search, five online databases were used to obtain published literature resulting from the search terms 'Gymnopus fusipes', 'Collybia fusipes' and 'Agaricus fusipes'. After a strict filtering process, the papers were examined for data pertaining to the biochemistry, distribution, ecology, genomic information, host range, infection biology, morphology and phylogeny of the species. The results reveal that there is a large amount of ambiguous and sometimes spurious citation of G. fusipes in the literature. However, it can be confirmed that G. fusipes is a facultative saproparasite, found in several countries, mainly in Europe, and is associated with several socioeconomically important host species, including oak, chestnut, and fir. Gymnopus fusipes has repeatedly been investigated with regard to oak decline in Europe, where it is believed to play a crucial role in the early stage of decline development. Key knowledge gaps highlighted in this review include a lack of information on the basic biology of the species, including its life cycle, which is crucial to fully understanding G. fusipes infection and epidemiology. Further work is needed to assess G. fusipes distribution, phylogeny and host range through molecular identification. There is also a need to characterize the pathogen–host interaction at a molecular level, with identification of active genes and therefore the mechanisms of infection. A combination of culture‐based and molecular techniques should be utilized in order to close these key knowledge gaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Knowledge of the structure and function of the human heart is fundamental to accurately understanding human physiology. As a complex biological system, naïve conceptions abound regarding cardiac anatomy and physiology for K‐12 learners and medical students alike. Objective: Textbooks and lectures, as well models and simulations, have had limited success in aiding learners in constructing accurate and cohesive knowledge of the human heart. Three dimensional (3D) modelling, haptic‐enabled (HE) feedback, and interactive virtual reality (VR) experiences aid tertiary learners, yet it is unknown if secondary learners benefit from learning with these technologies. Methods: An exploratory study examined secondary student knowledge of cardiac anatomy and physiology after participation in an interactive lesson on cardiac structure and function using a 3D, HE, VR technology system. Students from sixth grade (11–12 years old; n = 75) and ninth grade (14–15 years old; n = 76) completed a pre‐ and post‐assessment on cardiac knowledge, anatomy, and physiology punctuated by technology‐delivered instruction on the human heart. Results and Conclusions: Significant gains were found in knowledge from both groups in cardiac anatomy and blood circulation within the chambers of the heart; however, only ninth grade students demonstrated significant knowledge gains in pulmonary circulation. Takeaways: Results suggest that 3D HE VR technologies provide learners robust representations of and student‐driven interactions with complex biological systems that are innovative instructionally for strong conceptual and systematic learning. This study offers insight on technology‐assisted science visualizations for the promotion of knowledge acquisition and systems thinking of the human heart among secondary science students. Lay Description: What is already known: An ongoing challenge for science and medical educators alike is teaching their students about the human heart—its form, function, and how the heart is integrated into a larger body system for homeostasis.Three‐dimensional (3D), haptic‐enabled (HE) and virtual reality (VR) technologies (emerging technologies) provide robust visualizations to help improve learning among tertiary‐level learners, like undergraduate, graduate, and medical students.To what extent, if any, do younger secondary science learners (like students in the sixth and ninth grades) receive similar benefits when learning with emerging technologies. What this paper adds: Significant gains were found in cardiac knowledge from both sixth and ninth grade students in cardiac anatomy and blood circulation within the chambers of the heart.Sampled ninth grade students had significant knowledge gains in knowledge of pulmonary circulation, whereas the sixth graders did not.This study suggests that secondary students, like their tertiary level counterparts, are able to learn complex ideas about the human heart using emerging technologies for science learning, albeit those affordances in learning increase with age. Implications for practice: Secondary science learners benefit from visual and haptic stimuli, provided by emerging technologies, to acquire robust knowledge of the human heart.Middle school aged learners, more so than high school aged learners, may lack prior knowledge to connect their newly acquired knowledge of the human heart to the larger body system; additional scaffolding and teaching is needed for younger learners.Emerging technologies of 3D, haptics, and VR may provide new and robust means for teachers to aid secondary science students' learning of complex biological systems (like the human heart). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a list of forthcoming papers to be published in 1980 issues of the "European Journal of Biochemistry." Subjects; Authors.

Presents upcoming research papers on biochemistry to be published in "European Journal of Biochemistry." Discussion of the molecular cloning and sequencing of a cDNA encoding the acyl carrier protein; Exploration of the primary structure of human thyroglobulin; Examination of the reversible activation of hydrogenase from Escherichia coli.

First-year majors organismal biology courses are frequently taught as survey courses that promote memorization rather than synthesis of biological concepts. To address the shortcomings of this approach, we redesigned the organismal portion of our introductory biology curriculum to create a "Foundations of Form and Function" course. Foundations of Form and Function introduces different organismal forms and focuses on the relationship between those forms and the execution of key physiological functions. Goals of our new course include the following: developing student recognition of common characteristics that unite living organisms as well as features that distinguish taxonomic groups, facilitating student understanding of how organisms accomplish similar functions through different forms, and reinforcing course themes with independent student research. In this paper, we describe course learning outcomes, organization, content, assessment, and laboratory activities. We also present student perspectives and outcomes of our course design based on data from four years of student evaluations. Finally, we explain how we modified our course to meet remote learning and social-distancing challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents information on forthcoming papers and review topics, in January 2003 issue of the journal 'Munksgaard International Publishers.' Review topics to be released, starting from February to December 2003; Papers on organelle acidification and disease; Protein structure and import into the peroxisomal matrix.

Climate change, land clearing and invasive species are affecting ecosystems in concert, so effective management requires knowledge sharing and collaboration across multiple fields of applied ecological research.We provide an examination of the growth and interconnectivity of four major subfields of applied ecology: climate change biology, conservation biology, invasion biology and restoration ecology; estimated using citations from the entire population of peer‐reviewed journal articles published between 1990 and 2017.Over this period applied ecological research has grown from 2% of new ecology papers to over 20%. The subfields each represented c. 6% of new ecology publications in 2017, with the exception of restoration ecology at c. 3%. Inter‐subfield citation probabilities also increased consistently over our study period.Despite these positive trends, we identified apparent barriers to future integration of these research areas. While the probability that citations in one subfield would include at least one paper from another subfield was high, the magnitude of cross‐subfield citations was low. Subfields also exhibited segregated publishing habits, asynchronous research foci and a strong preference for citing application over theory.Synthesis and applications. Despite strong overall growth in applied ecological research, segregation of subfields in papers and journals may limit opportunities to identify co‐benefits and complementary theoretical frameworks. This has the potential to result in suboptimal ecological management outcomes. Despite strong overall growth in applied ecological research, segregation of subfields in papers and journals may limit opportunities to identify co‐benefits and complementary theoretical frameworks. This has the potential to result in suboptimal ecological management outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents abstracts of articles published in the July 31, 2004 of "The Veterinary Record." "Serological Responses in Free-Ranging Terrestrial and Aquatic Carnivores in Canada"; "PrP Genotype and Production Characteristics in German Sheep"; "Characterisation of PCV-2 From the First Outbreak of PMWS in South Africa."

Lists forthcoming papers to be featured in the "European Journal of Biochemistry."

Presents a list of papers scheduled to be published in the "European Journal of Biochemistry," as of August 15, 1992. Topics; Authors.

Lists the forthcoming papers to be published in the "European Journal of Biochemistry."

Lists research papers scheduled for publication in the "European Journal of Biochemistry," in 1989. Topics; Authors; Data presented.

Lists the forthcoming papers to be published in the "European Journal of Biochemistry."

Presents a list of forthcoming papers scheduled to be pubilshed in the "European Journal of Biochemistry," in 1988. Subjects; Authorship.

Presents a list of forthcoming papers scheduled for publication in the "European Journal of Biochemistry," in 1988. Topics; Authors; Studies and data to be presented.

Lists the forthcoming papers to be published in the "European Journal of Biochemistry."

Five decades ago, a landmark paper in Science titled The Cave Environment heralded caves as ideal natural experimental laboratories in which to develop and address general questions in geology, ecology, biogeography, and evolutionary biology. Although the 'caves as laboratory' paradigm has since been advocated by subterranean biologists, there are few examples of studies that successfully translated their results into general principles. The contemporary era of big data, modelling tools, and revolutionary advances in genetics and (meta)genomics provides an opportunity to revisit unresolved questions and challenges, as well as examine promising new avenues of research in subterranean biology. Accordingly, we have developed a roadmap to guide future research endeavours in subterranean biology by adapting a well‐established methodology of 'horizon scanning' to identify the highest priority research questions across six subject areas. Based on the expert opinion of 30 scientists from around the globe with complementary expertise and of different academic ages, we assembled an initial list of 258 fundamental questions concentrating on macroecology and microbial ecology, adaptation, evolution, and conservation. Subsequently, through online surveys, 130 subterranean biologists with various backgrounds assisted us in reducing our list to 50 top‐priority questions. These research questions are broad in scope and ready to be addressed in the next decade. We believe this exercise will stimulate research towards a deeper understanding of subterranean biology and foster hypothesis‐driven studies likely to resonate broadly from the traditional boundaries of this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The globally invasive weed, mayweed chamomile (Anthemis cotula L.) is an annual, bushy, ill‐scented herb, originating in Eurasia. It is aggressively weedy in croplands, field‐side ditches, wet areas and along roadsides, especially in slightly acidic, nitrogen‐rich, clay‐loam soils. In addition to interfering with crop growth, the weed causes dermatitis and eye irritation in humans, skin rashes and sour mouth in domesticated mammals, and off‐flavours in cow's milk through forage contamination. Although A. cotula may be managed effectively with some broadleaf herbicides in cereal crops, it is much more difficult to manage in broadleaved crops and cover crops. In some regions, aggressive use of relatively few herbicides has selected for acetolactate synthase herbicide resistance in A. cotula. Therefore, A. cotula poses serious ecological and economic challenges in many regions. Despite this threat, the details of A. cotula biology and ecology in the context of environmental change remain relatively unknown. For example, the reason for the invasiveness of A. cotula remains uncertain, but is presumed to be due to abundant seed production, allelochemicals, mycorrhizal associations, minimal herbivory in invaded ranges, ability to attract generalist pollinators through an extended flowering period and adaptive capacity in a wide range of soil types and conditions. In this paper, we comprehensively review the literature and ongoing work on A. cotula and provide a research agenda to improve understanding and management of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some invasion biologists contend their science has reached a consensus on 4 facts: cost estimates of the effects of nonindigenous species provided in papers by Pimentel et al. are credible; invasive species generally, not just predators, pose significant extinction threats; characteristic biological differences distinguish novel from native species, ecosystems, communities, and processes; and ontological dualism, which distinguishes between natural and anthropogenic processes and influences, plays a useful role in biological inquiry. I contend there is no convincing empirical evidence for any of these propositions. Leading invasion biologists cite their agreement about these propositions as evidence for them and impugn the motives of critics who believe consensus should be based on evidence not the other way around. Article impact statement: Contested invasion biology issues are clarified so opposition groups can together achieve shared goals with evidence‐based solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Progressive knee joint degeneration occurs following removal of a torn meniscus. However, there is significant variability in the rate of development of post‐meniscectomy osteoarthritis (OA). While there is no current consensus on the risk factors for development of knee OA in patients with meniscus tears, it is likely that both biological and biomechanical factors play critical roles. In this perspective paper, we review the mechanical and the biological predictors of the response of the knee to partial meniscectomy. We review the role of patient‐based studies, in vivo animal models, cadaveric models, bioreactor systems, and statistically augmented computational models for the study of meniscus function and post‐meniscectomy OA, providing insight into the important interplay between biomechanical and biologic factors. We then discuss the clinical translation of these concepts for "biologic augmentation" of meniscus healing and meniscus replacement. Ultimately, collaborative studies between engineers, biologists, and clinicians is the optimal way to improve our understanding of meniscus pathology and response to injury and/or disease, and to facilitate effective translation of laboratory findings to improved treatments for our patients. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:937‐945, 2020 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic biology promises to eliminate the distinction between biology and engineering by delivering a philosophically interesting new kind of entity: a biological organism that is wholly designed and constructed by humans. The possibility of such organisms raises interesting questions in three domains: the analysis of (1) biological functions, (2) engineering functions, and (3) health and disease. This paper identifies and systematically answers these questions. This does not only establish how we should think about functions and health and disease in synthetic biological organisms, but it also reveals insights that are of broader relevance: (1) aetiological accounts of biological function need to omit or reinterpret reference to natural selection. This results in complete continuity between aetiological analyses of function in engineering and philosophy; (2) considering synthetic biology prompts interesting further questions about heritability, ancestry, and biological individuals; and (3) accounts of disease as biological dysfunction do not straightforwardly map onto our intuitive health and disease judgments regarding non‐human animals. In response to the latter point I examine three possible avenues, and tentatively defend one on behalf of the 'disease as dysfunction' theorist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper draws on doctoral research exploring the lived experiences of secondary school students during their first year of A-level study, through the theoretical lens of the Threshold Concept Framework. A longitudinal design frame based on Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis is employed, thus providing an original use of this methodology in education research to address the paucity of inquiry exploring the difficulties experienced by students as they transition from the General Certificate in Secondary Education (GCSE) to A-level. In this context, I argue that students' encounters with threshold concepts (TCs) are significant for them, posing a degree of cognitive and affective challenge which serves to exacerbate the difficulty of transition already caused by increased workload and pressure. The findings offer insights into students' struggles adjusting to shifting identity and membership of communities further intensified by the integrative, discursive and transformative nature of TC acquisition. The longitudinal research design also surfaces positive aspects of growing awareness of the integrative power of TCs. Recommendations are made for further research involving students, teachers and academics to explore TCs in a range of other subjects and settings in secondary schools in the context of recent and significant changes to GCSE and A-level curricula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]