Publications by authors named "M M McGowen"
Cetaceans have evolved unique limb structures, such as flippers, due to genetic changes during their transition to aquatic life. However, the full understanding of the genetic and evolutionary mechanisms behind these changes is still developing. By examining 25 limb-related protein-coding genes across various mammalian species, we compared genetic changes between aquatic mammals, like whales, and other mammals with unique limb structures such as bats, rodents and elephants.
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- Toothed whales (Odontoceti) display a range of tooth and enamel types linked to their feeding habits, from complete teeth in dolphins to enamel-less teeth in some beaked whales.
- Previous research found mutations in genes responsible for enamel production in odontocetes, but the relationship between enamel complexity and genetic selection pressure remains unclear.
- This study analyzed enamel-specific gene sequences in 62 odontocete species, revealing fewer inactivating mutations in species with complex enamel, while those with simpler enamel exhibited higher mutation rates.
Article Synopsis
- Toothed whales use echolocation, emitting high-frequency sounds to detect prey and navigate their environment, enabled by their specialized jaw structure.
- Research reveals significant evolutionary changes in the shape of the mandible over 50 million years, particularly during two main periods of rapid evolution related to dietary adaptations and the refinement of echolocation abilities.
- Overall mandible shape is influenced by factors like diet and feeding methods, but remains relatively conservative in certain areas despite the evolution of sophisticated echolocation in these species.
Background: In 2017, the San Francisco Cancer Initiative (SF CAN) established the Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Screening Program to provide technical assistance and financial support to improve CRC screening processes, and outcomes in a consortium of community health centers (CHCs) serving low-income communities in San Francisco. The purpose of this study was twofold: to evaluate the perceived influence of the support provided by the CRC Screening Program's Task Force on CRC screening processes and outcomes in these settings and to identify facilitators and barriers to SF CAN-supported CRC screening activities before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: Semi-structured key informant interviews were conducted with consortium leaders, medical directors, quality improvement team members, and clinic screening champions.