bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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

Abstract
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 (&lt; 50 Mg ha-1), small diameter trees (&lt; 10 cm diameter) contained up to 75% of the AGBD in trees ≥ 10 cm diameter; this proportion dropped to &lt; 10% for stands with AGBD &gt; 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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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

AbstractWeed 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

Abstract
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.
Can Small, Rural Communities Practice Urban Forestry?
Authors: Groninger J.W. , Close D.D. , Basman C.M. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
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.
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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.