bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Specialist learning curves and clinical feasibility of introducing a new MRI grading system for skeletal maturity
Authors: De Luca Francesca , Finnbogason Thröstur , Kvist Ola
Published: April 2024

Objective

MRI is an emerging imaging modality to assess skeletal maturity. This study aimed to chart the learning curves of paediatric radiologists when using an unfamiliar MRI grading system of skeletal maturity and to assess the clinical feasibility of implementing said system.

Methods

958 healthy paediatric volunteers were prospectively included in a dual-facility study. Each subject underwent a conventional MRI scan at 1.5 T. To perform the image reading, the participants were grouped into five subsets (subsets 1-5) of equal size (n∼192) in chronological order for scan acquisition. Two paediatric radiologists (R1-2) with different levels of MRI experience, both of whom were previously unfamiliar with the study’s MRI grading system, independently evaluated the subsets to assess skeletal maturity in five different growth plate locations. Congruent cases at blinded reading established the consensus reading. For discrepant cases, the consensus reading was obtained through an unblinded reading by a third paediatric radiologist (R3), also unfamiliar with the MRI grading system. Further, R1 performed a second blinded image reading for all included subjects with a memory wash-out of 180 days. Weighted Cohen kappa was used to assess interreader reliability (R1 vs consensus; R2 vs consensus) at non-cumulative and cumulative time points, as well as interreader (R1 vs R2) and intrareader (R1 vs R1) reliability at non-cumulative time points.

Results

Mean weighted Cohen kappa values for each pair of blinded readers compared to consensus reading (interreader reliability, R1-2 vs consensus) were ≥0.85, showing a strong to almost perfect interreader agreement at both non-cumulative and cumulative time points and in all growth plate locations. Weighted Cohen kappa values for interreader (R1 vs R2) and intrareader reliability (R1 vs R1) were ≥0.72 at non-cumulative time points, with values ≥0.82 at subset 5.

Conclusions

Paediatric radiologists’ clinical confidence when introduced to a new MRI grading system for skeletal maturity was high from the outset of their learning curve, despite the radiologists’ varying levels of work experience with MRI assessment. The MRI grading system for skeletal maturity investigated in this study is a robust clinical method when used by paediatric radiologists and can be used in clinical practice.

Advances in knowledge

Radiologists with fellowship training in paediatric radiology experienced no learning curve progress when introduced to a new MRI grading system for skeletal maturity and achieved desirable agreement from the first time point of the learning curve. The robustness of the investigated MRI grading system was not affected by the earlier different levels of MRI experience among the readers.
Propofol and salvianolic acid A synergistically attenuated cardiac ischemia–reperfusion injury in diabetic mice via modulating the CD36/AMPK pathway
Authors: Zhou Jiaqi , Xia Weiyi , Chen Jiajia , Han Kaijia , Jiang Yuxin , Zhang Anyuan , Zhou Dongcheng , Liu Danyong , Lin Jiefu , Cai Yin , Chen Guanghua , Zhang Liangqing , Xu Aimin , Xu Youhua , Han Ronghui , Xia Zhengyuan
Published: April 2024

Background

Prevention of diabetic heart myocardial ischemia–reperfusion (IR) injury (MIRI) is challenging. Propofol attenuates MIRI through its reactive oxygen species scavenging property at high doses, while its use at high doses causes hemodynamic instability. Salvianolic acid A (SAA) is a potent antioxidant that confers protection against MIRI. Both propofol and SAA affect metabolic profiles through regulating Adenosine 5‘-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK). The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects and underlying mechanisms of low doses of propofol combined with SAA against diabetic MIRI.

Methods

Diabetes was induced in mice by a high-fat diet followed by streptozotocin injection, and MIRI was induced by coronary artery occlusion and reperfusion. Mice were treated with propofol at 46 mg/kg/h without or with SAA at 10 mg/kg/h during IR. Cardiac origin H9c2 cells were exposed to high glucose (HG) and palmitic acid (PAL) for 24 h in the absence or presence of cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36) overexpression or AMPK gene knockdown, followed by hypoxia/reoxygenation (HR) for 6 and 12 h.

Results

Diabetes-exacerbated MIRI is evidenced as significant increases in post-ischemic infarction with reductions in phosphorylated (p)-AMPK and increases in CD36 and ferroptosis. Propofol moderately yet significantly attenuated all the abovementioned changes, while propofol plus SAA conferred superior protection against MIRI to that of propofol. In vitro, exposure of H9c2 cells under HG and PAL decreased cell viability and increased oxidative stress that was concomitant with increased levels of ferroptosis and a significant increase in CD36, while p-AMPK was significantly reduced. Co-administration of low concentrations of propofol and SAA at 12.5 μM in H9c2 cells significantly reduced oxidative stress, ferroptosis and CD36 expression, while increasing p-AMPK compared to the effects of propofol at 25 μM. Moreover, either CD36 overexpression or AMPK silence significantly exacerbated HR-induced cellular injuries and ferroptosis, and canceled propofol- and SAA-mediated protection. Notably, p-AMPK expression was downregulated after CD36 overexpression, while AMPK knockdown did not affect CD36 expression.

Conclusions

Combinational usage of propofol and SAA confers superior cellular protective effects to the use of high-dose propofol alone, and it does so through inhibiting HR-induced CD36 overexpression to upregulate p-AMPK.
COVID-19 Vaccine Efficacy in Participants With Weakened Immune Systems From 4 Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Sherman Amy C , Tuan Jessica , Cantos Valeria D , Adeyiga Oladunni , Mahoney Scott , Ortega-Villa Ana M , Tillman Amy , Whitaker Jennifer , Woodward Davis Amanda S , Leav Brett , Hirsch Ian , Sadoff Jerald , Dunkle Lisa M , Gilbert Peter B , Janes Holly E , Kublin James G , Goepfert Paul A , Kotloff Karen , Rouphael Nadine , Falsey Ann R , El Sahly Hana M , Sobieszczyk Magdalena E , Huang Yunda , Neuzil Kathleen M , Corey Lawrence , Grinsztejn Beatriz , Gray Glenda , Nason Martha , Baden Lindsey R , Gay Cynthia L
Published: April 2024

Background

Although the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccines are highly efficacious at preventing severe disease in the general population, current data are lacking regarding vaccine efficacy (VE) for individuals with mild immunocompromising conditions.

Methods

A post hoc, cross-protocol analysis of participant-level data from the blinded phase of four randomized, placebo-controlled, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine phase 3 trials (Moderna, AstraZeneca, Janssen, and Novavax) was performed. We defined a “tempered immune system” (TIS) variable via a consensus panel based on medical history and medications to determine VE against symptomatic and severe COVID-19 cases in TIS participants versus non-TIS individuals starting at 14 days after completion of the primary series through the blinded phase for each of the 4 trials. An analysis of participants living with well-controlled human immunodeficiency virus was conducted using the same methods.

Results

A total of 3852/30 351 (12.7%) Moderna participants, 3088/29 868 (10.3%) Novavax participants, 3549/32 380 (11.0%) AstraZeneca participants, and 5047/43 788 (11.5%) Janssen participants were identified as having a TIS. Most TIS conditions (73.9%) were due to metabolism and nutritional disorders. Vaccination (vs placebo) significantly reduced the likelihood of symptomatic and severe COVID-19 for all participants for each trial. VE was not significantly different for TIS participants versus non-TIS for either symptomatic or severe COVID-19 for each trial, nor was VE significantly different in the symptomatic endpoint for participants with human immunodeficiency virus.

Conclusions

For individuals with mildly immunocompromising conditions, there is no evidence of differences in VE against symptomatic or severe COVID-19 compared with those with non-TIS in the 4 COVID-19 vaccine randomized controlled efficacy trials.
The problems of macroeconomics as institutional problems: complementing the ‘what went wrong’ story with a social epistemology perspective
Authors: Lari Teemu
Published: April 2024

After the financial crisis of 2008, many economists expressed dissatisfaction with the state of macroeconomics. They criticised deficiencies in the dominant dynamic stochastic general equilibrium modelling approach and conceptions of good macroeconomic research behind that dominance. This paper argues that there is a deeper problem in macroeconomics, which remains unaddressed. I connect existing literature critical of the institutions of macroeconomics and of economics in general to the institutional preconditions of effective criticism outlined by the philosopher Helen Longino. I find that as an epistemic community, macroeconomics does not function in a way that adequately supports critical evaluation of established beliefs, norms and practices. This failure may partly explain why many views on macroeconomic modelling, the tenability of which economists questioned after the crisis, were able to persist for so long. My analysis gives additional support to several recent proposals for institutional reforms in economics.
Sexual differences in bite force are not related to testosterone level in the wild-derived red junglefowl
Authors: Rao Xiaodong , Wang Daiping , Liang Wei
Published: April 2024

Bite force is an important performance indicator of individual fitness that is closely related to food acquisition, male competition, and mating selection. It is also affected by a variety of factors and different mechanisms. Therefore, it is relatively difficult to understand the evolutionary driving forces of changes in bite force. In this study, the driving factors affecting the bite force of wild-derived red junglefowl (Gallus gallus jabouillei) were investigated from the aspects of morphological indicators and physiological characteristics. Results showed that the bite force of wild-derived red junglefowl was directly related to sex, showing obvious sexual differences. However, there was no correlation between the plasma testosterone level and bite force. The bite force of males was significantly greater than that of females, and the body index (i.e., PC1 of five body measures, namely body mass, body length, wing length, tail length, and tarsus length), the grasp index (i.e., tomial length × bill width) of males were significantly greater than those of females. Sexual selection may have played a key role in the evolution of bite force in the red junglefowl. Future studies should examine other key factors affecting changes in bite force to verify the correlation between secondary sexual characteristics and bite force in red junglefowls.
Physical Activity is Associated with a Decreased Risk of Developing Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Tiong Ho Tuan , Fan Dali , Frampton Chris , Ananthakrishnan Ashwin N , Gearry Richard B
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

Modifiable risk factors in inflammatory bowel disease [IBD], such as physical activity, may be used as prevention strategies. However, the findings of previous studies on the association between physical activity and IBD risk have been inconsistent. We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the effect of physical activity on IBD risk.

Methods

A search was conducted for relevant studies published before April 2023 that assessed the effect of pre-IBD diagnosis levels of physical activity on IBD incidence. Individual summary statistics [relative risks; RR], and confidence intervals [CI] were extracted with forest plots generated. We used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation [GRADE] approach to assess the quality of evidence.

Results

Ten observational studies were included. For cohort studies, there were 1182 Crohn’s disease [CD] and 2361 ulcerative colitis [UC] patients, with 860 992 participants without IBD. For case-control studies, there were 781 CD to 2636 controls, and 1127 UC to 3752 controls. Compared with individuals with low physical activity levels, the RRs of CD in individuals with high physical activity levels for cohort and case-control studies were 0.78 [95% CI 0.68-0.88, p = 0.0001] and 0.87 [95% CI 0.79-0.95, p = 0.003], respectively. For UC, the RRs were 0.62 [95% CI 0.43-0.88, p = 0.008] and 0.74 [95% CI 0.51-1.07, p = 0.11].

Conclusion

This meta-analysis suggests that physical activity is inversely associated with the risk of developing IBD, more so in CD than in UC.
A New Stocking Guide Formulation Applied to Eastern White Pine
Authors: Seymour Robert S. , Smith David M.
Published: April 2024

A procedure is described for incorporating stand age, or stage in development, into the widely used stocking guides based on the crown competition factor (CCF). A simple model that predicts dbh of individual trees from crown projection area and total height is derived from a three-dimensional relationship between cumulative foliage production (crown volume) and total volume of the main stem. Procedures employed by previous researchers to prepare CCF-based stocking guides are then used to convert this individual-tree model to stand basal areas and numbers of trees per unit area at successive stages in development denoted by stand heights. An equation relating crown width to crown length and height is derived and used to predict growth under conventional and low-density thinning schedules for eastern white pine. An example shows that complete crown closure can occur well below the CCF-based B level if early thinnings are heavy enough to permit development of large crowns. Because CCF-based stocking guides assume that the crown width-dbh relationship is independent of height, they may, in some cases, overestimate the number of trees required for full crown closure. For. Sci. 33(2):469-484.
Effects of Light Intensity and Temperature on the Growth of Douglas-Fir and Incense-Cedar Seedlings
Authors: Minore Don
Published: April 2024

Seedlings of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii [Mirb.] Franco) and incense-cedar (Calocedrus decurrens [Torr.] Florin) were grown together in six moist growth-chamber environments to compare growth in warm and cool temperatures, determine relative shade tolerances, and investigate the effects of temperature on shade tolerance. Incense-cedar grew larger than Douglas-fir in cool temperatures under all three light intensities used (5, 24, and 420 μE.m-2.s-1), but Douglas-fir grew as large or larger than incense-cedar in warm temperatures under light intensities of 24 and 420 μE. The relative allocation of growth to shoots and roots was allometric and similar for warm and cool temperatures under 24 and 420 μE in the incense-cedar seedlings but not in the Douglas-fir seedlings. Incense-cedar seedlings were more shade tolerant than Douglas-fir seedlings. High temperatures reduced the shade tolerances of both species. For. Sci. 34(1):215-223.
Do One Percent of the Forest Fires Cause Ninety-Nine Percent of the Damage?
Authors: Strauss David , Bednar Larry , Mees Romain
Published: April 2024

A relatively small number of forest fires are responsible for a very high proportion of the total damage. The proportion due to the fraction p of largest fires, when plotted against p, is a measure of variability of fire sizes that is especially sensitive to the important extreme events. We find the theoretical form of the plot for several commonly used distributions and show how the results can be used in the analysis of empirical plots from actual fire size distributions. Some simple graphical methods are suggested for the fitting of truncated Pareto and lognormal distributions to empirical data. We use the plots to compare the firesize heterogeneity of several fire climate regions of the western United States; the proportion of area burned by the 1% of largest fires ranges from 80%-96%. We also compare patterns of the larger fires for Southern California and Baja California. For. Sci 35(2):319-328.
Spatial and Temporal Variability of Nitrogen Cycling in Northern Lower Michigan
Authors: Zak Donald R. , Pregitzer Kurt S.
Published: April 2024

Net N mineralization and nitrification were studied in three forest ecosystems to gain an understanding of the spatial and temporal variability of N transformations. The upland forests studied were two sugar maple ecosystems that differed in overstory associates and ground flora composition, and an oak ecosystem. Three stands in each ecosystem were sampled to provide spatial replication within a 250,000 ha area in northwestern Lower Michigan. Overstory biomass and annual increment were estimated using species-specific allometric biomass equations. Net N mineralization and nitrification were determined by an in situ buried polyethylene bag technique in which surface soil samples were incubated at monthly intervals for one year. Litter was collected during autumn in each ecosystem from one randomly selected stand.

Aboveground biomass was lowest in the oak ecosystem (151 t ha-1) and greatest in the sugar maple-basswood/Osmorhiza ecosystem (209 t ha-1). Net annual N mineralization was 313 μg N g-1 yr-1 in the oak ecosystem and was significantly less than annual mineralization in the two sugar maple ecosystems. Mineral N production in the sugar maple-basswood/Osmorhiza and sugar maple-red oak/Maianthemum ecosystems was 426 and 382 μg N g-1 yr-1, respectively. Nitrification was greatest in the sugar maple-basswood/Osmorhiza ecosystem where 85% of mineral N was oxidized to NO3- (364 μg N g-1 yr-1). Nitrification was minimal in the oak forest, totaling 6% of annual mineralization (18 μg N g-1 yr-1). Results suggest that ecosystem types may be used to predict spatial patterns of N transformations at regional scales. For. Sci. 36(2):367-380.
A Carbon Balance Model of Growth and Self-Pruning in Trees Based on Structural Relationships
Authors: Mäkelä Annikki
Published: April 2024

A tree growth model is formulated based on structural relationships in a carbon balance framework. Three relationships are applied: (1) an allometric relationship between crown surface area and foliage area, (2) the principle of functional balance, and (3) the pipe-model theory. These assumptions lead to a model where the sizes of the functional parts of the tree are derivable from foliage weight, except for the pruning height of the crown. This is determined by defining a "self-pruning coefficient," which controls the allocation of growth between height growth and foliage growth. The tree model is applied to an average-tree based stand growth model where both the self-pruning coefficient and tree mortality are made functions of crown coverage. The model is quantified for Scots pine growing in southern Fenno-Scandia. The overall behavior of the model is realistic. The model responds to stocking density through the rate of self-pruning, lower stocking densities leading to larger crown ratios. It also responds to changes in parameters describing site quality in a realistic way, although the differences in stand density are not as large as expected. The predicted development of the biomass compartments in individual trees agrees well with data on dominant Scots pine trees in Finland. For. Sci. 43(1):7-24.
Monitoring Hemlock Forest Health in New Jersey Using Landsat TM Data and Change Detection Techniques
Authors: Royle Denise D. , Lathrop Richard G.
Published: April 2024

Defoliation of eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis Carriere) forest caused mainly by the hemlock woolly adelgid (Adelges tsugae Annand) was detected, quantified, and mapped for a 1,267 km² study area in the New Jersey Highlands using anniversary dates of Landsat Thematic Mapper data (1984 and 1994). A model relating estimates of canopy condition to the temporal difference in near infrared/red reflectance (i.e., the vegetative index difference) was developed to predict and map four classes of hemlock condition across the study area. Data from 105 circular ground plots (90 m diameter) were used to develop the regression model, while data from 50 plots were reserved for accuracy assessment. The vegetative index difference was highly correlated to hemlock damage as measured on the ground (R² = 0.73). Lightly defoliated hemlock canopy did not differ spectrally from healthy hemlock; thus, these two classes were joined together. Accuracy assessment showed that hemlock condition can be predicted within one-half damage class with an overall accuracy of 64% for four damage classes, 70-72% for three classes, and 78-92% for two classes. Of the 7,735 ha of hemlock forest in 1984, 47% remained healthy to lightly defoliated, 44% had experienced moderate to severe defoliation, and 9% were dead by 1994. For. Sci. 43(3):327-335.
Biomass Estimation for Temperate Broadleaf Forests of the United States Using Inventory Data
Authors: Schroeder Paul , Brown Sandra , Mo Jiangming , Birdsey Richard , Cieszewski Chris
Published: April 2024

A potentially valuable data source for estimating forest biomass is forest volume inventory data that are widely collected and available throughout the world. In this paper we present a general methodology for using such data to reliably estimate aboveground biomass density (AGBD) and to develop expansion factors for converting volume directly to AGBD from USDA Forest Service Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) data. Growing stock volume inventory data and stand tables were combined with independently developed biomass regression equations to estimate AGBD and to calculate biomass expansion factors (BEF: factors that convert volume to mass, accounting for noncommercial components) for the extensive oak-hickory and maple-beech-birch forest types of the eastern United States. Estimated aboveground biomass for both forest types ranged between 28 and 200 Mg ha-1. Expansion factors decreased from more than 4.0 at low growing stock volume to nearly 1.0 when growing stock volume was as high as 190 m³ ha-1, consistent with theoretical expectations. In stands with low AGBD (< 50 Mg ha-1), small diameter trees (< 10 cm diameter) contained up to 75% of the AGBD in trees ≥ 10 cm diameter; this proportion dropped to < 10% for stands with AGBD > 175 Mg ha-1. The similarity of our results for two major forest types suggests that they may be generally applicable for estimating AGBD from inventory data for other temperate broadleaf forests. Further, the pattern between BEF and stand volume was similar to that obtained for tropical broadleaf forests, except that tropical forests generally had larger BEFs than temperate forests at a given volume. The implications of these results suggest that a recent assessment of forest biomass in developed countries is too low. For. Sci.: 43(32):424-434.
Accounting for Bias and Uncertainty in Nonlinear Stand Density Indices
Authors: Ducey Mark J. , Larson Bruce C.
Published: April 2024

Several commonly used stand density indices, such as Reineke's stand density index, Drew and Flewelling's relative density index, and Curtis's relative density index, depend in a nonlinear fashion on stand-level means of measured variables. Thus, the stand-level index value is not necessarily the mean of the plot-level index values. We show formally that this dependency introduces a bias that depends on the sample size or number of plots and on the variance-covariance structure of the measured variables. We then present formulas for estimating the bias and variance or standard error of estimated densities based on a priori knowledge of the variances and covariances or on observed sample data. We also present and compare bootstrap and jackknife methods of estimating the bias and variance associated with sample estimates. The results suggest that for some indices, the bias and variance arising from quick "grab samples" may be large enough to be of practical significance. These results have strong implications for the development and interpretation of stocking guides derived from single plots or from measurement schemes other than those employed in practical applications. For. Sci. 45(3):452-457.
Assessing Tree and Stand Biomass: A Review with Examples and Critical Comparisons
Authors: Parresol Bernard R.
Published: April 2024

There is considerable interest today in estimating the biomass of trees and forests for both practical forestry issues and scientific purposes. New techniques and procedures are brought together along with the more traditional approaches to estimating woody biomass. General model forms and weighted analysis are reviewed, along with statistics for evaluating and comparing biomass models. Additivity and harmonization are addressed, and weight-ratio and density-integral approaches are discussed. Subsampling methods on trees to derive unbiased weight estimates are examined, and ratio and difference sampling estimators are considered in detail. Error components for stand biomass estimates are examined. This paper reviews quantitative principles and gives specific examples for prediction of tree biomass. The examples should prove useful for understanding the principles involved and for instructional purposes. For. Sci. 45(4):573-593.
Understanding Broadscale Wildfire Risks in a Human-Dominated Landscape
Authors: Prestemon Jeffrey P. , Pye John M. , Butry David T. , Holmes Thomas P. , Mercer D. Evan
Published: April 2024

Broadscale statistical evaluations of wildfire incidence can answer policy-relevant questions about the effectiveness of microlevel vegetation management and can identify subjects needing further study. A dynamic time series cross-sectional model was used to evaluate the statistical links between forest wildfire and vegetation management, human land use, and climatic factors in Florida counties. Four forest wildfire risk functions were estimated: one for fires regardless of ignition source, and three others for fires of specific ignition sources: arson, lightning, and accident (unintentional anthropogenic). Results suggest that current wildfire risk is negatively related to several years of past wildfire and very recent site prep burning, and risk is positively related to pulpwood removals. The effect of traditional prescribed burning on wildfire risk varies by ignition source. El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies were also significantly linked to forest wildfire risk, but a measure of the wildland-urban interface was not significant. Although these county-level results hold promise for aggregate risk assessment, modeling at finer spatial and temporal scales might further enhance our understanding of how land managers can best reduce the longer term risk of catastrophic wildfire damages. For. Sci. 48(4):685–693.
The Measurement of Place Attachment: Validity and Generalizability of a Psychometric Approach
Authors: Williams Daniel R. , Vaske Jerry J.
Published: April 2024

To enhance land managers' ability to address deeper landscape meanings and place-specific symbolic values in natural resource decision making, this study evaluated the psychometric properties of a place attachment measure designed to capture the extent of emotions and feelings people have for places. Building on previous measurement efforts, this study examined the validity and generalizability of place attachment across measurement items, places, and dimensions (place dependence and place identity) of attachment. Colorado State University students (n = 65) rated four forest-based recreation sites on two dimensions of place attachment. In addition, data from a sample of University of Illinois students (n = 380) and visitors to Shenandoah National Park (n = 2005) and Mt. Rogers National Recreation Area (n = 369) were analyzed and compared to the Colorado sample. Confirmatory factor analysis of these four data sets demonstrated that subjects distinguish between two dimensions of attachment and assign different levels of attachment to the different areas. Generalizability analysis of the Colorado data provided additional evidence for the two-dimensional structure and suggested that each attachment dimension can be reliably measured with as few as four questionnaire items. Convergent validity was supported through analyses of the relationships between the place attachment measures and both behavioral and psychological variables predicted to be related to place attachment.
Fine Root Carbon Allocation and Fates in Longleaf Pine Forests
Authors: Carter Durwin C. , Hendricks Joseph J. , Mitchell Robert J. , Pecot Stephen D.
Published: April 2024

The patterns and mechanistic controls of fine root production and mortality in a 19-year-old longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Miller) plantation were assessed using minirhizotrons in a complete factorial design experiment that manipulated root carbon source and sink strengths. Carbon source strength to roots was manipulated through foliar scorching, carbon sink strength in roots was altered via nitrogen fertilization, and carbon transfer from roots to the soil organic matter pool was impacted using a general soil pesticide to distinguish between root mortality via herbivory and senescence. Fertilization significantly increased fine root nitrogen concentrations and mortality rates in the nonscorched plots across the last four sample intervals. Scorching significantly reduced fine root biomass. The influence of soil herbivores on fine root carbon allocation and fates could not be assessed in this study because the soil pesticide had no measurable effect on herbivorous nematode and insect larvae populations. The results of this study suggest that nitrogen increases fine root mortality via an increase in fine root carbon sink strength rather than a decrease in carbon allocation to fine roots. These findings support the constant allocation hypothesis regarding nitrogen controls on fine root carbon allocation and transfers in forest ecosystems. FOR. SCI. 50(2):177–187.
Race/Ethnicity and the Measurement of Cognition in the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project: Recommendations for Robustness
Authors: Iveniuk James , Zhong Selena , Wilder Jocelyn , Marshall Gillian L , Boyle Patricia , Hanis-Martin Jennifer , Hawkley Louise , Piedra Lissette M , Riley Alicia R , Lee Haena
Published: April 2024

Objectives

In this study, we examine the measurement of cognition in different racial/ethnic groups to move toward a less biased and more inclusive set of measures for capturing cognitive change and decline in older adulthood.

Methods

We use data from Round 2 (N = 3,377) and Round 3 (N = 4,777) of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP) and examine the study’s Survey Adjusted version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA-SA). We employ exploratory factor analyses to explore configural invariance by racial/ethnic group. Using modification indexes, 2-parameter item response theory models, and split-sample testing, we identify items that seem robust to bias by race. We test the predictive validity of the full (18-item) and short (4-item) MoCA-SAs using self-reported dementia diagnosis, instrumental activities of daily living, proxy reports of dementia, proxy reports of dementia-related death, and National Death Index reports of dementia-related death.

Results

We found that 4 measures out of the 18 used in NSHAP’s MoCA-SA formed a scale that was more robust to racial bias. The shortened form predicted consequential outcomes as well as NSHAP’s full MoCA-SA. The short form was also moderately correlated with the full form.

Discussion

Although sophisticated structural equation modeling techniques would be preferable for assuaging measurement invariance by race in NSHAP, the shortened form of the MoCA-SA provides a quick way for researchers to carry out robustness checks and to see if the disparities and associations by race they document are “real” or the product of artifactual bias.
A survey exploring the barriers and drivers to leader and leadership development of the pharmacy workforce
Authors: Gondongwe Xolani D , Jani Yogini
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Leadership is an essential but under-researched domain in advanced pharmacy practice.

Aim

To describe pharmacist leadership training experience and ascertain perceptions of barriers/drivers for leadership development.

Methods

Online survey at a UK tertiary-care organization. Questions related to leadership competencies, personal qualities, barriers, and drivers, with Likert scale responses options, were analysed using Microsoft Excel®.

Results

Thirty-nine pharmacists responded. Three quarters reported no formal leadership training. Many identified leadership development as essential for career progression. Main driver was a manager or peer support. Barriers included workload, being undervalued, and lack of strategic opportunities.

Conclusion

Our findings can inform educators and organizations in developing future strategies.
Heteroresistance to piperacillin/tazobactam in Klebsiella pneumoniae is mediated by increased copy number of multiple β-lactamase genes
Authors: Babiker Ahmed , Lohsen Sarah , Van Riel Julia , Hjort Karin , Weiss David S , Andersson Dan I , Satola Sarah
Published: April 2024

Background

Piperacillin/tazobactam is a β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor combination with a broad spectrum of activity that is often used as empirical and/or targeted therapy among hospitalized patients. Heteroresistance (HR) is a form of antibiotic resistance in which a minority population of resistant cells coexists with a majority susceptible population that has been found to be a cause of antibiotic treatment failure in murine models.

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of HR and mechanisms of HR to piperacillin/tazobactam among Klebsiella pneumoniae bloodstream infection (BSI) isolates.

Materials

From July 2018 to June 2021, K. pneumoniae piperacillin/tazobactam-susceptible BSI isolates were collected from two tertiary hospitals in Atlanta, GA, USA. Only first isolates from each patient per calendar year were included. Population analysis profiling (PAP) and WGS were performed to identify HR and its mechanisms.

Results

Among 423 K. pneumoniae BSI isolates collected during the study period, 6% (25/423) were found to be HR with a subpopulation surviving above the breakpoint. WGS of HR isolates grown in the presence of piperacillin/tazobactam at concentrations 8-fold that of the MIC revealed copy number changes of plasmid-located β-lactamase genes blaCTX-M-15, blaSHV33, blaOXA-1 and blaTEM-1 by tandem gene amplification or plasmid copy number increase.

Conclusions

Prevalence of HR to piperacillin/tazobactam among bloodstream isolates was substantial. The HR phenotype appears to be caused by tandem amplification of β-lactamase genes found on plasmids or plasmid copy number increase. This raises the possibility of dissemination of HR through horizontal gene transfer and requires further study.
Osteoporosis GWAS-implicated DNM3 locus contextually regulates osteoblastic and chondrogenic fate of mesenchymal stem/progenitor cells through oscillating miR-199a-5p levels
Authors: Kaur Gurcharan , Pippin James A , Chang Solomon , Redmond Justin , Chesi Alessandra , Wells Andrew D , Maerz Tristan , Grant Struan F A , Coleman Rhima M , Hankenson Kurt D , Wagley Yadav
Published: April 2024

Genome wide association study (GWAS)-implicated bone mineral density (BMD) signals have been shown to localize in cis-regulatory regions of distal effector genes using 3D genomic methods. Detailed characterization of such genes can reveal novel causal genes for BMD determination. Here, we elected to characterize the “DNM3” locus on chr1q24, where the long non-coding RNA DNM3OS and the embedded microRNA MIR199A2 (miR-199a-5p) are implicated as effector genes contacted by the region harboring variation in linkage disequilibrium with BMD-associated sentinel single nucleotide polymorphism, rs12041600. During osteoblast differentiation of human mesenchymal stem/progenitor cells (hMSC), miR-199a-5p expression was temporally decreased and correlated with the induction of osteoblastic transcription factors RUNX2 and Osterix. Functional relevance of miR-199a-5p downregulation in osteoblastogenesis was investigated by introducing miR-199a-5p mimic into hMSC. Cells overexpressing miR-199a-5p depicted a cobblestone-like morphological change and failed to produce BMP2-dependent extracellular matrix mineralization. Mechanistically, a miR-199a-5p mimic modified hMSC propagated normal SMAD1/5/9 signaling and expressed osteoblastic transcription factors RUNX2 and Osterix but depicted pronounced upregulation of SOX9 and enhanced expression of essential chondrogenic genes ACAN, COMP, and COL10A1. Mineralization defects, morphological changes, and enhanced chondrogenic gene expression associated with miR-199a-5p mimic over-expression were restored with miR-199a-5p inhibitor suggesting specificity of miR-199a-5p in chondrogenic fate specification. The expression of both the DNM3OS and miR-199a-5p temporally increased and correlated with hMSC chondrogenic differentiation. Although miR-199a-5p overexpression failed to further enhance chondrogenesis, blocking miR-199a-5p activity significantly reduced chondrogenic pellet size, extracellular matrix deposition, and chondrogenic gene expression. Taken together, our results indicate that oscillating miR-199a-5p levels dictate hMSC osteoblast or chondrocyte terminal fate. Our study highlights a functional role of miR-199a-5p as a BMD effector gene at the DNM3 BMD GWAS locus, where patients with cis-regulatory genetic variation which increases miR-199a-5p expression could lead to reduced osteoblast activity.
From weeds to natural enemies: implications of weed cultivation and biopesticides for organic onion production
Authors: Lennon Kylie , Querejeta Marina , Dutta Bhabesh , Johnson Caroll , Schmidt Jason M
Published: April 2024

Weed management is challenging for vegetable crops that are highly sensitive to weed competition, such as onions. Thrips (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) are major insect pests of onions, causing damage through feeding, and vectoring bacterial pathogens causing bulb rot. Both thrips and their associated pathogens are known to survive on many weed species in onion growing regions. Combining weeding with biopesticides may synergistically manage thrips and reduce disease prevalence. However, disturbances from weeding may negatively impact natural enemies. We estimated the effects of organic weed management and biopesticides on weed density, thrips and natural enemy activity, disease severity, and yield. The experiment was a randomized complete block design, with 4 replications of each weeding (control, tine-weeded twice, tine-weeded 4 times, and hand-weeded) and biopesticide (control, OxiDate 2.0, Serenade) combination. Arthropods were monitored using yellow sticky cards, and weed counts, marketable yield, and bulb rot prevalence were estimated. Hand-weeding resulted in the lowest weed density and thrips abundance. Additionally, hand-weeding produced a 9× higher yield compared to all other treatments. Significant interactions were observed between tine-weeding and biopesticide treatments on the prevalence of bulb rot. Natural enemy abundance was slightly negatively impacted by weeding, dependent on the year. DNA metabarcoding results showed high parasitoid diversity in this onion system and high numbers of reads for multiple genera containing important known biological control agents. Our study suggests hand-weeding is necessary in the southeast for maximum onion yield. Future research should focus on exploring the impact of management on natural enemy communities in onion systems on a large scale.
Black blow fly (Diptera: Calliphoridae) bacterial symbionts inform oviposition site selection by stable flies (Diptera: Muscidae)
Authors: Hennig Sophie , Hung Emmanuel , Gooding Claire , Gries Gerhard
Published: April 2024

Larval habitats of blood-feeding stable flies, Stomoxys calcitrans (L.) (Diptera: Muscidae), overlap with foraging sites of black blow flies, Phormia regina (Meigen) (Diptera: Calliphoridae). We tested the hypothesis that bacteria in blow fly excreta inform oviposition decisions by female stable flies. In laboratory 2-choice bioassays, we offered gravid female stable flies fabric-covered agar plates as oviposition sites that were kept sterile or inoculated with either a blend of 7 bacterial strains isolated from blow fly excreta (7-isolate-blend) or individual bacterial isolates from that blend. The 7-isolate-blend deterred oviposition by female stable flies, as did either of 2 strains of Morganella morganii subsp. sibonii. Conversely, Exiguobacterium sp. and Serratia marcescens each prompted oviposition by flies. The flies’ oviposition decisions appear to be guided by bacteria-derived semiochemicals as the bacteria could not be physically accessed. Oviposition deterrence caused by semiochemicals of the 7-isolate-blend may help stable flies avoid competition with blow flies. The semiochemicals of bioactive bacterial strains could be developed as trap lures to attract and capture flies and deter their oviposition in select larval habitats.
Commentary: Getting It Right
Authors: Smith D.W.
Published: April 2024

As professionals, it is our job to get it right and then get it out there.
Can Small, Rural Communities Practice Urban Forestry?
Authors: Groninger J.W. , Close D.D. , Basman C.M.
Published: April 2024

The practice of urban forestry traditionally has been confined to large cities and their suburbs. However, trees and forests within municipalities–regardless of community size or location within a rural, urban, or suburban setting–all have the potential to provide residents with the environmental benefits and other amenities associated with urban forestry. In most cases, the management afforded metropolitan trees is far superior to that in nonmetropolitan communities. As a result, small towns are often populated by unsightly, unhealthy, and potentially dangerous trees. The biological, economic, and social forces underlying the poor condition of these forests are presented and potential remedies discussed.
Forest Sustainability Discussion Guide Response: Sustainable Development and the Forest Service
Authors: Janik P.
Published: April 2024

Sustainability can be defined and together, as various interests, we can work to improve its measurement and application.
Multiple Benefits of Large, Undeveloped Tracts in Urbanized Landscapes: A North Carolina Example
Authors: Blank G.B. , Parker D.S. , Bode S.M.
Published: April 2024

In North Carolina's Research Triangle region, development pressures threaten open space. Expanding municipalities and suburban sprawl have isolated public lands as private landowners subdivide or sell to developers. Large holdings owned by a private corporation and amassed to buffer a nuclear power facility and its reservoir remain intact. These holdings provide unexpected public benefits and foster conservation of a rare plant community type revealed through interdisciplinary research. The landowner's support for research and restoration underscore the important role private corporations can play in achieving community conservation goals.
A One-Dimensional Model for Aerial Spray Assessment in Forest Streams
Authors: Teske M.E. , Ice G.G.
Published: April 2024

This article describes the implementation of one-dimensional unsteady equation as the basis for a line-source stream assessment model of spray material entering a stream downwind of an aerial application. Accessed from within the existing deposition model AgDRIFT® through a toolbox option, this model provides a rapid prediction of downstream advection, diffusion, chemical decay or loss, and dilution. Stream assessment predictions are compared with an available dataset and suggest that the model typically should be used for scoping studies of relatively short distances downstream.
Innovative Forest Products and Processes: Meeting Growing Demand
Authors: Hammett A.L. , Youngs R.L.
Published: April 2024

Innovation in design and processing of forest products is essential to meeting the challenges of 21st century forestry. Forests and attitudes toward their use are changing while demand for wood in its various forms increases with the population. Engineered wood products offer new opportunities to meet consumer needs from a diverse resource. In addition, processes such as nondestructive evaluation, recycling of wood and paper, and advances in pulping and papermaking offer new possibilities for managing the forest for its many uses.
An Assessment of State Agencies That Affect Forests
Authors: Ellefson P.V. , Moulton R.J. , Kilgore M.A.
Published: April 2024

A 2000 assessment finds that state agencies affecting forest conditions are dispersed over all levels of state government and that a state's lead forestry agency is often but one of many units involved in forestry. Most of these agencies directly determine forest uses and forest management activities, yet many affect forest conditions through programs focused on fisheries and wildlife, water pollution, and park and recreation management. The consequences of dispersed responsibility for forests are usually viewed as adverse, yet there are also important benefits, including efficiencies arising from competition between agencies and additional ways that citizens can interact with government.
Focus on ... Urban Foresters: What's Killing Trees in Parking Lots?
Authors:   none
Published: April 2024

Parking lots are commonly landscaped in an attempt to mask their extensive desert of pavement with lush vegetation. Unfortunately, these plantings often fail to grow and only add to the visual blight they were intended to correct. Some soil management tips are provided that may improve the success of parking lot landscapes.
Southern Forest Resource Assessment highlights: Waters and Wetlands
Authors: Greis J.G.
Published: April 2024

Public interest in the wetlands and waters of the South is high and likely to intensify as multiple demands on these resources inevitably increase. Indications are that widespread concerns about water quality will be joined by concerns for water quantity as the region's population and economy grow. The largely private forests of the South will likely be expected to satisfy even more public demand for wood products, recreational experiences, and ecological stability while generating clean water. The forestry community's response to these challenges will not only influence the quality of southern waters and wetlands, but will also likely dictate the operational flexibility that society permits forest managers in the future.
Thinking Like a Conservationist
Authors: Miller C.
Published: April 2024

Government agencies at federal, state, and local levels use conservation to signal their attempts to balance economic development with environmental protection; some go farther and define conservation as the preservation of social capital and the built environment. Has the word lost all meaning? In the 19th century, George Perkins Marsh witnessed the destruction of natural resources and proposed conservation as a remedy. For Gifford Pinchot, the power of conservation as an idea would sustain human prosperity for all time. Aldo Leopold called conservation “a state of harmony between men and land” and found the word's true meaning in its call to live accordingly.