bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cooling of bat hibernacula to mitigate white‐nose syndrome
Authors: Turner Gregory G. , Sewall Brent J. , Scafini Michael R. , Lilley Thomas M. , Bitz Daniel , Johnson Joseph S. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractWhite‐nose syndrome (WNS) is a fungal disease that has caused precipitous declines in several North American bat species, creating an urgent need for conservation. We examined how microclimates and other characteristics of hibernacula have affected bat populations following WNS‐associated declines and evaluated whether cooling of warm, little‐used hibernacula could benefit bats. During the period following mass mortality (2013–2020), we conducted 191 winter surveys of 25 unmanipulated hibernacula and 6 manipulated hibernacula across Pennsylvania (USA). We joined these data with additional datasets on historical (pre‐WNS) bat counts and on the spatial distribution of underground sites. We used generalized linear mixed models and model selection to identify factors affecting bat populations. Winter counts of Myotis lucifugus were higher and increased over time in colder hibernacula (those with midwinter temperatures of 3–6 °C) compared with warmer (7–11 °C) hibernacula. Counts of Eptesicus fuscus, Myotis leibii, and Myotis septentrionalis were likewise higher in colder hibernacula (temperature effects = –0.73 [SE 0.15], –0.51 [0.18], and –0.97 [0.28], respectively). Populations of M. lucifugus and M. septentrionalis increased most over time in hibernacula surrounded by more nearby sites, whereas Eptesicus fuscus counts remained high where they had been high before WNS onset (pre‐WNS high count effect = 0.59 [0.22]). Winter counts of M. leibii were higher in hibernacula with high vapor pressure deficits (VPDs) (particularly over 0.1 kPa) compared with sites with lower VPDs (VPD effect = 15.3 [4.6]). Counts of M. lucifugus and E. fuscus also appeared higher where VPD was higher. In contrast, Perimyotis subflavus counts increased over time in relatively warm hibernacula and were unaffected by VPD. Where we manipulated hibernacula, we achieved cooling of on average 2.1 °C. At manipulated hibernacula, counts of M. lucifugus and P. subflavus increased over time (years since manipulation effect = 0.70 [0.28] and 0.51 [0.15], respectively). Further, there were more E. fuscus where cooling was greatest (temperature difference effect = –0.46 [SE 0.11]), and there was some evidence there were more P. subflavus in hibernacula sections that remained warm after manipulation. These data show bats are responding effectively to WNS through habitat selection. In M. lucifugus, M. septentrionalis, and possibly P. subflavus, this response is ongoing, with bats increasingly aggregating at suitable hibernacula, whereas E. fuscus remain in previously favored sites. Our results suggest that cooling warm sites receiving little use by bats is a viable strategy for combating WNS.
Consequences of migratory coupling of predators and prey when mediated by human actions
Authors: Singh Navinder J. , Ecke Frauke , Katzner Todd , Bagchi Sumanta , Sandström Per , Hörnfeldt Birger 
Published: July 2021

AbstractAimAnimal migrations influence ecosystem structure, dynamics and persistence of predator and prey populations. The theory of migratory coupling postulates that aggregations of migrant prey can induce large‐scale synchronized movements in predators, and this coupling is consequential for the dynamics of ecological communities. The degree to which humans influence these interactions remains largely unknown. We tested whether creation of large resource pulses by humans such as seasonal herding of reindeerRangifer tarandusand hunting of moose,Alces alces, can induce migratory coupling with Golden Eagles,Aquila chrysaetos,and whether these lead to demographic consequences for the eagles.LocationFennoscandia.MethodsWe used movement data from 32 tracked Golden Eagles spanning 125 annual migratory cycles over 8 years. We obtained reindeer distribution data through collaboration with reindeer herders based on satellite tracking of reindeer, and moose harvest data from the national hunting statistics for Sweden. We assessed demographic consequences for eagles from ingesting lead from ammunition fragments in moose carcasses through survival estimates and their links with lead concentrations in eagles' blood.ResultsIn spring, eagles migrated hundreds of kilometres to be spatially and temporally coupled with calving reindeer, whereas in autumn, eagles matched their distribution with the location and timing of moose hunt. Juveniles were more likely to couple with reindeer calving, whereas adults were particularly drawn to areas of higher moose harvest. Due to this coupling, eagles ingested lead from spent ammunition in moose offal and carcasses and the resulting lead toxicity increased the risk of mortality by 3.4 times.Main conclusionsWe show how migratory coupling connects landscape processes and that human actions can influence migratory coupling over large spatial scales and increase demographic risks for predators. We provide vital knowledge towards resolving human–wildlife conflicts and the conservation of protected species over a large spatial and temporal scale.
Interrater and test–retest reliability of the Hand Assessment for Infants
Authors: Ullenhag Anna , Ek Linda , Eliasson Ann‐Christin , Krumlinde‐Sundholm Lena 
Published: July 2021

AimTo evaluate the interrater and test–retest reliability, standard error of measurement (SEM), and the smallest detectable difference (SDD) of the Hand Assessment for Infants (HAI).MethodHAI assessments of 55 infants (26 females, 29 males), 25 with clinical signs of unilateral cerebral palsy (CP) and 30 typically developing (mean [SD] age 6.8mo [2.4], range 3–11mo), were scored individually by three therapists. Three clinically experienced occupational therapists (OT 1–OT 3) with extensive experience in using the HAI, independently scored the video recorded HAI play sessions. Analysis of the combined group of infants and just the infants with clinical signs of unilateral CP (12 females, 13 males; mean age 7.6mo [2.1]) were conducted. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC, 2.1), Bland–Altman plots, SEM, and SDD were calculated.ResultsInterrater and test–retest reliability were excellent for the Both Hands Measure (BoHM) and the Each Hand Sum score (EaHS), with ICCs of 0.96 to 0.99. For individual items, the interrater and test–retest reliability was good to excellent (ICC 0.81–0.99). The SDD for the EaHS was 2 points, and for the BoHM the SDD it was 3 HAI units for infants with signs of unilateral CP.InterpretationThe HAI results showed good to excellent reliability. The SDDs were low, indicating that results beyond these levels exceed the measurement error and, thus, can be considered true changes.
What this study adds

The Hand Assessment for Infants (HAI) shows excellent reliability.

A change of ≥3 HAI units is considered a true change.

The HAI yields reliable measures for research and clinical practice.
Metabolomic signature of the Dravet syndrome: A genetic mouse model study
Authors: Miljanovic Nina , van Dijk Roelof Maarten , Buchecker Verena , Potschka Heidrun 
Published: July 2021

AbstractObjectiveAlterations in metabolic homeostasis can contribute to neuronal hyperexcitability and seizure susceptibility. Although the pivotal role of impaired bioenergetics is obvious in metabolic epilepsies, there is a gap of knowledge regarding secondary changes in metabolite patterns as a result of genetic Scn1a deficiency and ketogenic diet in the Dravet syndrome.MethodsA comprehensive untargeted metabolomics analysis, along with assessment of epileptiform activity and behavioral tests, was completed in a Dravet mouse model. Data sets were compared between animals on a control and a ketogenic diet, and metabolic alterations associated with Dravet mice phenotype and ketogenic diet were identified.ResultsHippocampal metabolomic data revealed complex alterations in energy metabolism with an effect of the genotype on concentrations of glucose and several glycolysis and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle intermediates. Although low glucose, lactate, malate, and citrate concentrations became evident, the increase of several intermediates suggested a genotype‐associated activation of catabolic processes with enhanced glycogenolysis and glycolysis. Moreover, we observed an impact on the glutamate/γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)‐glutamine cycle with reduced levels of all components along with a shift toward an increased GABA‐to‐glutamate ratio. Further alterations comprised a reduction in hippocampal levels of noradrenaline, corticosterone, and of two bile acids.SignificanceConsidering that energy depletion can predominantly compromise the function of GABAergic interneurons, the changes in energy metabolism may contribute to seizure susceptibility and ictogenesis. They may also explain the therapeutic potential of the ketogenic diet, which aims to shift energy metabolism toward a more fat‐based energy supply. Conversely, the increased GABA‐to‐glutamate ratio might serve as an endogenous compensatory mechanism, which can be further supported by GABAergic drugs, representing the mainstay of therapeutic management of Dravet syndrome. In view of a possible neuroprotective function of bile acids, it might be of interest to explore a possible therapeutic potential of bile acid–mediated therapies, already in discussion for neurodegenerative disorders.
Ethical considerations for research on small‐scale fisheries and blue crimes
Authors: Satizábal Paula , Le Billon Philippe , Belhabib Dyhia , Saavedra‐Díaz Lina M. , Figueroa Isabela , Noriega Gina , Bennett Nathan J. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractCrimes at sea—blue crimes—can have devastating impacts on small‐scale fishing communities. Increasing calls to address “blue crimes” demand more research to address the drivers, patterns, actors and impacts of criminal activities in society and the oceans. This research and policy agenda, however, is not without risks as it might impact individual small‐scale fishers and their communities, exacerbate existing inequalities and contribute to the criminalization of small‐scale fishing practices. This paper discusses the risks and ethical challenges faced by a blue crimes research agenda to improve rather than worsen the plight of small‐scale fishers. We identify eight inter‐related ethical considerations: (i) pay attention to context and forms of involvement, (ii) cultivate reciprocal relationships and collaborations, (iii) evaluate and minimize risks, (iv) integrate storytelling and careful listening, (v) challenge reductionism, (vi) represent people, places, and practices carefully, (vii) follow communication ethics and (viii) consider the legal and policy implications. In light of a review of the literature on blue crimes and small‐scale fisheries, we point to the need for ethically grounded research that is committed to reducing the associated burdens on small‐scale fishers and their communities.
Watching them grow: Intergenerational video‐calling among transnational families in the age of smartphones
Authors: Demirsu Ipek 
Published: July 2021

AbstractThis paper investigates the novel forms of intergenerational communication in transnational families introduced by the widespread use of video‐calls on smartphones. Centring on the kin‐keeping role of the mother, the study analyses 30 semi‐structured interviews with migrant Turkish mothers living in 10 different countries around the world, as the facilitators of video‐calls and intergenerational mediators. It is argued that smartphone mediated video‐calls add new dimensions to the communication that expand the possibilities of self‐expression and bonding for the migrant child with their grandparents in the form of visual performance, spatial sharing and spatio‐temporal longing, while offering new ways of carrying out traditional grandparenting roles in a digitalized setting. Such intergenerational communication is mediated by migrant mothers as manifested through the practice of simultaneous multigenerational communication engaging all three generations on different forms of exchange enabled by the device itself. Although the new generation born into the digital age struggle with the paradox of separation vis‐à‐vis virtual togetherness, everyday video‐calls on smartphones not only help keep the image of ‘family’ alive for the migrant child, they also generate a circumambient virtual setting that permits the transfer of family culture, knowledge and values wherein the younger generation can learn from the parent–grandparent relationship model.
Amphibian thrombocyte‐derived extracellular vesicles, including microRNAs, induce angiogenesis‐related genes in endothelial cells
Authors: Sugimoto Kenkichi , Toume Kayano 
Published: July 2021

AbstractThrombocytes circulate in the blood of nonmammalian vertebrates and are involved in hemostasis; however, many detailed characteristics of thrombocytes remain unclear. Recently, we established an amphibian thrombocyte cell line. Here, we report the finding that thrombocytes produce integrin alpha IIb (CD41)‐positive extracellular vesicles (EVs), which include microRNAs (miRs). Flow cytometric analysis showed the expression of CD41+ and phosphatidylserine on the surface of EVs. Nanotracking analysis showed that these CD41+ EVs were approximately 100 nm in diameter. As CD41+ EVs were also observed from African clawed frogs, the production of CD41+ EVs might be common to amphibians. Microarray analysis showed that the CD41+ EVs contain many kinds of miRs. These CD41+ EVs were phagocytosed by endothelial cells and macrophages. qPCR analysis showed that many angiogenesis‐related genes were up‐regulated in CD41+ EV‐treated endothelial cells. Over‐expression of some miRs in the CD41+ EVs increased the proliferation of endothelial cells. These results indicated that thrombocytes produced CD41+ EVs, including miRs, that were received by endothelial cells to induce the expression of angiogenesis‐related genes. These results indicated that the CD41+ EVs produced from thrombocytes act as signaling molecules to repair damaged blood vessels.
A novel atmospheric‐pressure air plasma jet for wound healing
Authors: Guo Peng , Liu Yang , Li Juan , Zhang Nan , Zhou Ming , Li Yi , Zhao Guozhu , Wang Ning , Wang Aiguo , Wang Yupeng , Wang Fujin , Huang Liping 
Published: July 2021

AbstractCurrent low‐temperature plasma (LTP) devices essentially use a rare gas source with a short working distance (8 to 20 mm), low gas flow rate (0.12 to 0.3 m3/h), and small effective treatment area (1‐5 cm2), limiting the applications for which LTP can be utilised in clinical therapy. In the present study, a novel type of LTP equipment was developed, having the advantages of a free gas source (surrounding air), long working distance (8 cm), high gas flow rate (10 m3/h), large effective treatment area (20 cm2), and producing an abundance of active substances (NOγ, OH, N2, and O), effectively addressing the shortcomings of current LTP devices. Furthermore, it has been verified that the novel LTP device displays therapeutic efficacy in terms of acceleration of wound healing in normal and Type I diabetic rats, with enhanced wound kinetics, rate of condensation of wound area, and recovery ratio. Cellular and molecular analysis indicated that LTP treatment significantly reduced inflammation and enhanced re‐epithelialization, fibroblast proliferation, deposition of collagen, neovascularization, and expression of TGF‐β, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase in Type I diabetic rats. In conclusion, the novel LTP device provides a convenient and efficient tool for the treatment of clinical wounds.
A tale of two conifers: Migration across a dispersal barrier outpaced regional expansion from refugia
Authors: Fernandez Matias C. , Hu Feng Sheng , Gavin Daniel G. , de Lafontaine Guillaume , Heath Katy D. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractAimUnderstanding how climate refugia and migration over great distances have facilitated species survival during past climate changes is crucial for evaluating contemporary threats to biodiversity, particularly in the face of dispersal barriers. We address this longstanding question on the refugial origins and post‐glacial development of mesic forests.LocationPacific Northwest, North America.TaxonMountain hemlock (Tsuga mertensiana) and western redcedar (Thuja plicata).MethodsRange‐wide genotyping‐by‐sequencing (ddRADseq) of both study species and a pollen reconstruction of mountain hemlock presence over the last 20,000 years.ResultsMountain hemlock occurred in two coastal populations (Oregon and Washington) during the glacial maximum, each of which dispersed to the interior (Idaho and British Columbia) during the Holocene. These populations spread in the direction of dominant winds across a barrier of dry, rain‐shadowed valleys. In contrast, for western redcedar, we infer four disparate refugia during the glacial maximum: southern (California), central (Washington), interior (Idaho), and northern (Haida Gwaii islands).Main conclusionsDespite the presence of pre‐dispersed refugial populations, the majority of the redcedar distribution was colonized by the central population. The history for these two key conifers contrast with many recent studies emphasizing the role of cryptic refugia in colonizing modern species ranges.
Artificial intelligence in educational assessment: ‘Breakthrough? Or buncombe and ballyhoo?’
Authors: Gardner John , O'Leary Michael , Yuan Li 
Published: July 2021

AbstractArtificial Intelligence is at the heart of modern society with computers now capable of making process decisions in many spheres of human activity. In education, there has been intensive growth in systems that make formal and informal learning an anytime, anywhere activity for billions of people through online open educational resources and massive online open courses. Moreover, new developments in Artificial Intelligence‐related educational assessment are attracting increasing interest as means of improving assessment efficacy and validity, with much attention focusing on the analysis of the large volumes of process data being captured from digital assessment contexts. In evaluating the state of play of Artificial Intelligence in formative and summative educational assessment, this paper offers a critical perspective on the two core applications: automated essay scoring systems and computerized adaptive tests, along with the Big Data analysis approaches to machine learning that underpin them.
The results of health‐related quality of life assessment depend on the prevailing rhythm at the assessment: Experience from the CAPTAF trial (Catheter Ablation Compared with Pharmacological Therapy for Atrial Fibrillation)
Authors: Jansson Victoria , Schwieler Jonas , Bergfeldt Lennart , Kennebäck Göran , Jensen Steen M. , Sciaraffia Elena , Blomström‐Lundqvist Carina 
Published: July 2021

AbstractAimsTo assess whether the prevailing rhythm at the time of replying to symptom and health‐related quality of life (HR‐QoL) questionnaires impacts the findings.MethodA total of 150 patients from the randomized Catheter Ablation Compared with Pharmacological Therapy for Atrial Fibrillation‐trial, comparing atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation versus drugs, were included. The effect of the prevailing rhythm on the outcome results of the HR‐QoL 36‐Item Short‐Form Health Survey, the symptom severity questionnaire (SSQ), and the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) score for classification of AF‐related symptoms was assessed.ResultsAF as the prevailing rhythm was independently associated with a significantly lower Vitality score; 18.4 points lower (95% confidence interval −32.7 to −4.1, p = .01) compared with sinus rhythm when adjusted for AF burden, median duration of episode, number of episodes, beta‐blocker use, type of AF, and sex. The presence of AF did not affect the General Health score compared with sinus rhythm, nor did it influence symptoms assessed by the SSQ or EHRA score.ConclusionThe observation that the presence of AF versus sinus rhythm when conducting HR‐QoL tests had a negative impact on its outcome, leaving symptom‐related questionnaires unaffected, implies that the prevailing rhythm should be taken into account when results of HR‐QoL questionnaires are interpreted.
Hyperglycaemia‐associated macrophage pyroptosis accelerates periodontal inflamm‐aging
Authors: Zhao Pengfei , Yue Ziqi , Nie Lulingxiao , Zhao Zhihao , Wang Qian , Chen Jiao , Wang Qi 
Published: July 2021

AbstractAimPyroptosis and inflamm‐aging have been newly identified to be involved in diabetic periodontitis. This study aimed to elucidate whether macrophage pyroptosis plays a role in periodontal inflamm‐aging by impacting the senescence of fibroblasts, as well as the potential mechanism via NLR family CARD domain‐containing protein 4 (NLRC4) phosphorylation.Materials and methodsDiabetes was induced in mice using streptozotocin. Periodontal pyroptosis and senescence were detected using immunohistochemical analysis. Prior to evaluating senescence in human gingival fibroblasts cultured with conditioned medium derived from macrophages, RAW 264.7 macrophages were confirmed to undergo pyroptosis by scanning electron microscopy and gasdermin D (GSDMD) detection. The NLRC4‐related pathway was examined under hyperglycaemic conditions.ResultsOur data showed that macrophage pyroptosis induced the expression of senescent markers in vivo and in vitro. Importantly, clearance of pyroptotic macrophages rescued senescence in fibroblasts. Furthermore, GSDMD activation and pyroptosis in hyperglycaemia were found to be mediated by NLRC4 phosphorylation.ConclusionsHyperglycaemia could initially induce macrophage pyroptosis and lead to cellular senescence, thereby critically contributing to periodontal pathogenesis in diabetes. In particular, NLRC4 phosphorylation could be a potential therapeutic target for the inhibition of this process.
Psychiatric comorbidity of eating disorders in children between the ages of 9 and 10
Authors: Convertino Alexandra D. , Blashill Aaron J. 
Published: July 2021

BackgroundEating disorders exhibit high comorbidity with other psychiatric disorders, most notably mood, substance use, and anxiety disorders. However, most studies examining psychiatric comorbidity are conducted in adolescents and adults. Therefore, the comorbidity among children living with eating disorders is unknown. The aim of this study was to characterize co‐occurring psychiatric disorders with eating disorders in a US sample of children aged 9–10 years old utilizing the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study.MethodsThe analytic sample included 11,718 children aged 9–10 years. Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and other specified feeding and eating disorder subtype diagnoses were examined. Statistical analyses were conducted using complex sampling. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated comparing the likelihood of being diagnosed for a psychiatric disorder when having an eating disorder, as compared to children without an eating disorder, children diagnosed with major depressive disorder, and children diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder using binary logistic regression.ResultsCo‐occurring psychiatric disorders were substantially higher in children with eating disorders as compared to children without eating disorders, but not as compared to children diagnosed with major depressive disorder or posttraumatic stress disorder. The most common comorbidities for the eating disorder group were anxiety disorders (71.4%), attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (47.9%), disruptive/impulse control disorders (45.0%), mood disorders (29.6%), and obsessive‐compulsive disorder (28.8%), largely in line with previous research.ConclusionsThis study extends prior research finding high rates of comorbidity in eating disorders, specifically with anxiety, mood, and disruptive/impulse control disorders. Clinicians assessing for psychiatric disorders should be aware that eating disorders can occur in children 9 and 10 years old and are associated with severe comorbidity. Referrals for specialty mental health care should be considered.