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While ulceration is one of the most common infantile hemangioma (IH) complications, severe bleeding is a rare consequence, with a paucity of patients reported. We report a 5‐month‐old girl with a very large, mixed, partial segmental IH of the upper chest wall who, despite medical intervention, developed severe ulceration and multiple episodes of life‐threatening bleeding that ultimately led to hemorrhagic shock. Experience in our patient and a review of six previous reports shows that severe bleeding is a risk when ulceration extends directly into an arterial feeding vessel that is often visible clinically. Other potential predictors for severe bleeding include large to very large IH size with extension of the tumor into underlying structures, segmental or partial segmental patterning, mixed and bulky morphology, and white discoloration as a sign of impending or worsening ulceration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Sackett vs. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which narrows the definition of "waters of the United States" (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act. The court ruled that wetlands must have a continuous surface connection to a larger water body to be protected under the act, disregarding the goals and objectives of the law. This decision leaves the responsibility of protecting wetlands and streams to states that may lack the resources and political will to do so effectively. The article highlights the importance of wetlands and nonpermanent water bodies for ecosystem services and biodiversity, and calls for continued advocacy and education on the importance of safeguarding these resources. [Extracted from the article]

Automatic segmentation methods for in vivo magnetic resonance imaging are increasing in popularity because of their high efficiency and reproducibility. However, automatic methods can be perfectly reliable and consistently wrong, and the validity of automatic segmentation methods cannot be taken for granted. Quality control (QC) by trained and reliable human raters is necessary to ensure the validity of automatic measurements. Yet QC practices for applied neuroimaging research are underdeveloped. We report a detailed QC and correction procedure to accompany our validated atlas for hippocampal subfield segmentation. We document a two‐step QC procedure for identifying segmentation errors, along with a taxonomy of errors and an error severity rating scale. This detailed procedure has high between‐rater reliability for error identification and manual correction. The latter introduces at maximum 3% error variance in volume measurement. All procedures were cross‐validated on an independent sample collected at a second site with different imaging parameters. The analysis of error frequency revealed no evidence of bias. An independent rater with a third sample replicated procedures with high within‐rater reliability for error identification and correction. We provide recommendations for implementing the described method along with hypothesis testing strategies. In sum, we present a detailed QC procedure that is optimized for efficiency while prioritizing measurement validity and suits any automatic atlas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the treatment of dermatomyositis (DM) with anti-melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA5) antibody disease, specifically focusing on rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease (RP-ILD). RP-ILD is a serious complication of MDA5-DM, with a high mortality rate. The article highlights the importance of early and aggressive therapy for high-risk MDA5 positive patients to prevent RP-ILD. The use of combination therapy, including immunosuppression and steroids, is recommended. Medications such as mycophenolate, tacrolimus, and tofacitinib have shown promise in treating MDA5-ILD. The article emphasizes the need for prompt diagnosis, monitoring of antibody levels and immune activation markers, and timely decision-making regarding therapy. [Extracted from the article]

Background: We aimed to determine if burden of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) modifies the relationship of plasma amyloid‐beta (Abeta) 42/40 ratio and/or plasma p‐tau 181 with amyloid PET. Method: We studied N = 100 participants from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative with 1) Abeta‐42/40 biomarker levels using Quanterix SIMOA (Quanterix), Washington University Mass Spectroscopy (WashU), Simoa HD‐X 4Plex, Roche Elecsys, Shimadzu Mass Spectroscopy, and Gothenburg Mass Spectroscopy, 2) p‐tau181 plasma biomarker levels using Lumipluse G, Roche Elecsys, Simoa p‐tau181V2 Advantage (Simoa Advntage), Simoa p‐tau181, 3) MRI brain, and 4) amyloid‐PET. We stratified by CSVD bruden tertile (calculated from total white matter FLAIR hyperintensity volume). Amyloid positivity was defined as standardized uptake value ratio ≥ 1.11 for florbetapir PET scans. We used box plots to visualize plasma Abeta‐42/40 and p‐tau181 levels stratified by Amyloid‐PET positivity and CSVD tertile. Using logistic regression models, we tested for an interaction between CSVD and plasma Abeta‐42/40 ratio or p‐tau181 on amyloid PET positivity in unadjusted models and models adjusted for age, Clinical Dementia Rating, and presence of ≥1 apolipoprotein E4 allele (ApoE4+). Result: The cohort had an average age of 77 years, was 56% female, 50% cognitively normal, and 42% ApoE4+ (Table1). We found significant interactions between CSVD and plasma Abeta‐42/40 ratio on amyloid‐PET positivity for Quanterix (raw/adjusted: p = 0.035/p = 0.049), Simoa HD‐Plex (p = 0.047/p = 0.047), and Gothenburg assays (p = 0.026/p = 0.030), with worst discrimination between amyloid‐PET positivity among participants with highest CSVD burden (Figure1A). The Quanterix and Gothenburg assay demonstrated near total overlap between amyloid‐PET positive vs. negative groups at the highest tertile of CSVD. No significant interaction was found between CSVD and any plasma p‐tau181 assay on amyloid‐PET positivity (all p>0.2, Figure1B). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that individuals with a high burden of CSVD are at risk for incorrect Abeta‐42/40 ratio on certain assay platforms but not others. No interaction was found between CSVD and any plasma p‐tau181 assay on amyloid‐PET positivity. Further research in diverse cohorts with a high burden of CSVD is warranted to inform appropriate use of these blood assays and unravel mechanisms of this unexpected finding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydropower is a valuable renewable energy source, but its effects on the downstream passage of many riverine fish species are not well understood. Turbines that are designed to function as safe downstream passage routes for fish are being developed with the goal of mitigating the effects of hydropower operations on the environment. In this paper, we present the results of a study conducted with the juvenile life stage of the Alewife Alosa pseudoharengus, a major migratory species on the Atlantic coast of North America. The test was conducted at a small hydropower plant located in Freedom, Maine, with a single Restoration Hydro Turbine (RHT) operating under 7.5 m of gross head. Groups of 140–170 fish were released into the intake of a 55‐cm‐diameter RHT and were recaptured with a specialized trap at the turbine discharge outlet. The combined immediate and 48‐h survival rates (±95% CI) for all treatments, corrected for control mortality, were 98.2 ± 2.0% and 100.0 ± 6.6%, respectively. The passage of Alewives through the runner region of the turbine was also captured with high‐speed video. The results of the study demonstrate that the RHT, which is designed for fish safety, is an effective way to pass juvenile alosines downstream at hydropower facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased wildfire frequency and associated replacement of sagebrush (Artemisia spp.) with invasive annual grasses contribute to declines of greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus; hereafter, sage‐grouse) populations across the Great Basin. However, little is known about wildfire effects on sage‐grouse nest‐site selection and nest survival, which can influence population persistence. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the Rush Fire on sage‐grouse nest survival using before (2007–2009) and after (2015–2018) data collected from a population of sage‐grouse occupying the border of northeastern California and northwestern Nevada. We employed a before–after–control–impact (BACI) experimental design to account for spatiotemporal heterogeneity in the system and to derive estimates of relative change in survival parameters. Sage‐grouse nest survival decreased after the Rush Fire but decreased more in the burned area relative to the unburned area. Although female sage‐grouse continued to occupy burned areas, nest survival was reduced from 52% to 19%. Using a BACI ratio approach we found that nest survival decreased approximately 51% in the burned area, relative to the unburned area, following wildfire. Habitat analyses were restricted to the postfire period and found that female sage‐grouse that nested within unburned areas selected for wider nesting substrate, taller perennial grass height, and greater low sagebrush canopy cover. Conversely, female sage‐grouse that nested in burned areas used shorter sagebrush canopy cover than what was available across the entire study area but showed stronger selection for perennial grass height than their unburned counterparts. Strong nest‐site fidelity in sage‐grouse may explain the continued use of suboptimal habitat in wildfire‐altered landscapes, resulting in a reproductive cost, and overall reproduction well below replacement rate. Results suggest that fire suppression or rapid postfire habitat restoration, especially within nesting habitat, may be essential to conserving robust sage‐grouse populations into the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) increases risk for cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease/related dementias (ADRD), and Veterans may be at increased risk of both TBI and cognitive decline due to combat/training related exposures and other risk factors. However, it is unknown whether older Veterans are more likely to experience a poor cognitive outcome after acute TBI compared to civilians. Method: We examined 112 male Veterans and 320 male civilians (55+) who experienced an acute TBI and enrolled in Transforming Research and Clinical Knowledge in Traumatic Brain Injury (TRACK‐TBI). Data were collected at baseline (i.e., emergency room visit) on demographic and injury characteristics. Cognitive and TBI recovery data (i.e., Rivermead Postconcussive Questionnaire, Brief Symptom Inventory, Satisfaction with Life Scale, and Glascow Outcome Scale‐Extended) were collected at 2 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months. We calculated descriptive statistics and compared across Veterans and civilians. 12‐month cognitive outcome was defined as performance <9th percentile on 2+ cognitive tests, and/or decline from 2‐week or 6‐month score >90% reliable change index on two+ tests. We used propensity weighting to address missing cognitive outcome data and conducted a logistic regression analysis to examine association of Veteran status with classification of cognitive outcome. Result: Veterans were older and less likely to be Hispanic compared to civilians but did not differ on race, education, history of head injury, or injury severity. At 12 months post‐TBI, Veterans endorsed worse mood and satisfaction with life (p's = 0.05), but these results were attenuated by adjustment for prior TBI and injury severity. In adjusted models Veterans did not differ from civilians on a measure of overall TBI outcome (p = 0.45) or postconcussive symptoms (p = 0.32). Moreover, there was no association between Veteran status and cognitive outcome (Wald chi square = 2.66, p = 0.45). Conclusion: Risk of poor cognitive outcome following TBI does not differ between older male Veterans and civilians, and mood and life satisfaction outcomes were worse for Veterans but impacted by injury severity and prior head injury. These findings have implications for understanding risk for cognitive decline and ADRD among older men who experience an acute TBI as well as tailoring care, including provision of psychosocial support, for these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pre‐injury brain reserve may contribute to the substantial heterogeneity observed in cognitive outcome after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), including risk for cognitive decline and dementia. However, no tools exist to quantify pre‐injury brain reserve in an acute trauma setting, thereby limiting research. We aimed to develop and validate a visually‐rated Brain Reserve Score (BRS) to quantify baseline brain reserve on head CTs obtained to rule out intracranial trauma in adults presenting acutely with mTBI. Methods: Data are from the Transforming Research And Clinical Knowledge in Traumatic Brain Injury (TRACK‐TBI) and TRACK‐Geriatric TBI (TRACK‐GERI) studies, multi‐center prospective cohort studies of adults age 18+ presenting within 24 hours (TRACK‐TBI) or adults age 65y+ presenting within 72 hours (TRACK‐GERI) of TBI who received head CT and multi‐domain clinical follow‐up for one year. BRS was developed by adapting existing MRI visual rating scales of global cortical atrophy, hippocampal atrophy, and white matter change for use in trauma head CTs and then by refining the scoring guide to optimize rater reliability. To establish concurrent validity, we assessed correlation of BRS with pre‐injury cognitive status (measured in TRACK‐GERI using informant‐reported Clinical Dementia Rating interviews). To establish predictive validity, we assessed association of BRS with good versus poor 12‐month cognitive outcome in TRACK‐TBI using logistic regression adjusted for baseline demographics, medical/psychiatric comorbidities, injury characteristics, and trauma severity on CT. Results: Final BRS score ranged from 0‐10 (10 is highest burden of neuropathology); inter‐ and intra‐rater reliability were moderate‐substantial (weighted kappa 0.54‐0.80). Among N = 100 TRACK‐GERI participants BRS was significantly correlated with pre‐injury CDR (r = 0.37, p<0.01). Among N = 656 TRACK‐TBI participants, BRS of 6+ was independently associated with poor 12‐month cognitive outcome (fully adjusted odds ratio 4.35, 95% confidence interval 1.35‐13.99, p = 0.01). Conclusion: BRS is a reliable visually rated score of brain reserve on acute trauma head CT that correlates with pre‐injury cognitive status and independently predicts poor cognitive outcome one year post‐mTBI. BRS may be a useful tool to facilitate inclusion of older adults in acute TBI research thereby advancing clinical care and research on mechanisms of accelerated post‐TBI cognitive decline and dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Post‐mortem human brain tissue is the gold‐standard for neurodegenerative disease diagnosis and is invaluable for elucidating cellular and molecular mechanisms. Therefore, neurodegenerative disease brain banks are a critical component of research to advance diagnosis and develop effective disease modifying therapies. The Israel National Brain Repository (INBR) was established in 2018 at the Sheba Medical Center via a collaboration with the Mount Sinai Neuropathology Brain Bank in New York. Israel is a unique country with a diverse population including substantial populations of individuals of European descent, Middle‐Eastern North African (MENA) descent, and combinations of both. Method: INBR predominantly recruits from two prospective longitudinal cohort studies whose participants are at high dementia risk: older adults with type 2 diabetes (the Israel Diabetes and Cognitive Decline study) and middle‐aged offspring of people with Alzheimer's Disease (The Israel Registry for Alzheimer's Prevention). Participants in both cohorts are phenotyped for cognition, lifestyle, brain imaging, blood biomarkers, and genetics. Biospecimen collection and processing protocols are aligned with other Neurobiobanks in the USA (see flowchart). Additionally, all participants in both cohorts are members of the second largest healthcare provider in Israel, the Maccabi Healthcare Services, permitting linkage to longitudinal medical records dating from 1998. Result: N = 450 participants have signed intent to autopsy. Among the N = 285 with race/ethnicity data available, 30% are MENA. 14 brain and 6 spinal cord donations have been completed. At time of death, donors had an average age of 81.1 years, 10 had normal cognition, 3 had dementia, and one had amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Conclusion: The potential strengths of the INBR is in the population characteristics of Israel, the ethnic diversity and admixture, the linkage to 25‐years of medical records data, and the small size of the country allowing donations to be received from anywhere in the country. The main challenge we face is cultural barriers to brain donation that exist among some segments of Israeli society. The ultimate goal is to capitalize on the strengths and uniqueness of INBR to develop novel therapies for dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We explore long‐term plant community responses 17 years after a one‐time application of biosolids (0, 50, 100, 150, 200, 250 dry Mg/ha) to determine: (a) whether the land application of biosolids on mine tailings, seeded with an agronomic grass‐legume mixture, affects long‐term plant community responses; (b) how application rates and soil texture influenced plant community responses and community structure; and (c) whether native plant species have colonized and contributed to the reclaimed plant community. Location: Two tailings deposits (sand and silt loam) generated by a copper–molybdenum (Cu–Mo) mine in southern British Columbia, Canada. Methods: Plant communities were sampled by visual evaluation of cover percentage to the lowest taxonomic level possible. Vegetation surveys were completed on two mine tailings deposits within the storage facility that have different soil textures (sand and silt loam). Results: Results showed that the interaction of biosolids applications and soil texture impacted multiple community plant responses, including increasing plant cover at both sites, and increasing richness, evenness and diversity at the sandy site. Biosolids application enhanced the performance of spontaneously established species (volunteer species) and non‐native/naturalized grasses. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that biosolids application facilitates ecological succession by enhancing the establishment of non‐native volunteer species over the long term, which increases vegetative cover on both deposits and promotes plant communities' diversity on sites with sandy soil texture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design of epitaxial semiconductor–superconductor and semiconductor–metal quantum devices requires a detailed understanding of the interfacial electronic band structure. However, the band alignment of buried interfaces is difficult to predict theoretically and to measure experimentally. This work presents a procedure that allows to reliably determine critical parameters for engineering quantum devices; band offset, band bending profile, and number of occupied quantum well subbands of interfacial accumulation layers at semiconductor‐metal interfaces. Soft X‐ray angle‐resolved photoemission is used to directly measure the quantum well states as well as valence bands and core levels for the InAs(100)/Al interface, an important platform for Majorana‐zero‐mode based topological qubits, and demonstrate that the fabrication process strongly influences the band offset, which in turn controls the topological phase diagrams. Since the method is transferable to other narrow gap semiconductors, it can be used more generally for engineering semiconductor–metal and semiconductor–superconductor interfaces in gate‐tunable superconducting devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physics-based Data Assimilation (DA) has been shown to be a powerful technique for specifying and predicting space weather. However, it is also known that different data assimilation models simulating the same geophysical event can display different space weather features even if the same data are assimilated. In this study, we used our Multimodel Ensemble Prediction System (MEPS) of DA models to elucidate the similarities and differences in the individual DA model reconstructions of the mid-low latitude ionosphere when the same data are assimilated. Ensemble model averages were also obtained. For this ensemble modeling study, we selected the quiet/storm period of 16 and 17 March 2013 (equinox, solar medium). Five data assimilation models and one physics-based model were used to produce an ensemble mean output for Total Electron Content (TEC), ionospheric peak density (NmF2), and ionospheric peak height (hmF2) for latitudes less than 60° and all longitudes. The data assimilated included ground-based Global Positioning Satellite TEC and topside plasma densities near 800 km altitude derived from the COSMIC (Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate) satellites. Both a simple average and a weighted average of the models were used in the ensemble averaging in order to determine if there was an improvement of the ensemble averages over the individual models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Questions: Biosolids are a source of nutrient‐rich organic material that can be used to improve degraded or disturbed soils. Research on vegetation responses to the land application of biosolids has increased in the past 20 years, but there is no consensus on how plant communities respond to biosolids applications. What factors influence productivity and vegetative cover following biosolids application for grassland reclamation? How does the addition of biosolids impact plant community responses? Location: Global, but predominantly North America and Europe. Methods: To explore vegetative responses following biosolids application, we used a global systematic review and meta‐analysis of 59 articles. Our meta‐analysis used the log response ratio (LRR) as an effect size for productivity, total cover, species richness, diversity and exotic species abundance and explored covariates addressing various site characteristics and reclamation strategies. Results: We found that across sites, the land application of biosolids significantly increased productivity and cover but had no significant overall effect on species richness, Shannon diversity or exotic species abundance on degraded lands. These increases in the LRR for productivity and vegetative cover were lower on sites that experienced a fire prior to biosolids application. Climatic variables like mean annual temperature were shown to alter the response of vegetative cover, where warmer sites tended to have more positive responses to biosolids. Seeding was found to increase plant cover but decrease species richness early in the reclamation process. Conclusions: This area of research is growing; most of the publications we used come from the last 20 years and were mostly conducted in North America and Europe. While we can build on the present literature, there is clearly room for more research to ensure the process of reclaiming degraded ecosystems using biosolids results in desired plant communities, e.g. high native species diversity. Future research should consistently report biosolids chemical characteristics as well as application and processing methodologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally accelerating frequency and extent of wildfire threatens the persistence of specialist wildlife species through direct loss of habitat and indirect facilitation of exotic invasive species. Habitat specialists may be especially prone to rapidly changing environmental conditions because their ability to adapt lags behind the rate of habitat alteration. As a result, these populations may become increasingly susceptible to ecological traps by returning to suboptimal breeding habitats that were dramatically altered by disturbance. We demonstrate a multistage modeling approach that integrates habitat selection and survival during the key nesting life‐stage of a bird species of high conservation concern, the greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus; hereafter, sage‐grouse). We applied these spatially explicit models to a spatiotemporally robust dataset of sage‐grouse nest locations and fates across wildfire‐altered sagebrush ecosystems of the Great Basin ecoregion, western United States. Female sage‐grouse exhibited intricate habitat selection patterns that varied across regional gradients of ecological productivity among sagebrush communities, but often selected nest sites that disproportionately resulted in nest failure. For example, 23% of nests occurred in wildfire‐affected habitats characterized by reduced sagebrush cover and greater composition of invasive annual grasses. We found survival of nests was negatively associated with wildfire‐affected areas, but positively associated with higher elevations with increased ruggedness and overall shrub cover. Strong site fidelity likely drove sage‐grouse to continue nesting in habitats degraded by wildfire. Hence, increasing frequency and extent of wildfire may contribute disproportionately to reduced reproductive success by creating ecological traps that act as population sinks. Identifying such habitat mismatches between selection and survival facilitates deeper understanding of the mechanisms driving reduced geographic niche space and population decline at broad spatiotemporal scales, while guiding management actions to areas that would be most beneficial to the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structures of five s‐block metal salt forms of three disulfonated monoazo dyes are presented. These are poly[di‐μ‐aqua‐diaqua[μ4‐3,3′‐(diazane‐1,2‐diyl)bis(benzenesulfonato)]disodium(I)], [Na2(C12H8N2O6S2)(H2O)4]n, (I), catena‐poly[[tetraaquacalcium(II)]‐μ‐3,3′‐(diazane‐1,2‐diyl)bis(benzenesulfonato)], [Ca(C12H8N2O6S2)(H2O)4]n, (II), catena‐poly[[[diaquacalcium(II)]‐μ‐2‐(4‐amino‐3‐sulfonatophenyl)‐1‐(4‐sulfonatophenyl)diazenium] dihydrate], {[Na(C12H10N3O6S2)(H2O)2]·2H2O}n, (III), hexaaquamagnesium bis[2‐(4‐amino‐3‐sulfonatophenyl)‐1‐(4‐sulfonatophenyl)diazenium] octahydrate, [Mg(H2O)6](C12H10N3O6S2)2·8H2O, (IV), and poly[[{μ2‐4‐[2‐(4‐amino‐2‐methyl‐5‐methoxyphenyl)diazen‐1‐yl]benzene‐1,3‐disulfonato}di‐μ‐aqua‐diaquabarium(II)] dihydrate], {[Ba(C14H13N3O7S2)(H2O)4]·2H2O}n, (V). Compound (III) is that obtained on crystallizing the commercial dyestuff Acid Yellow 9 [74543‐21‐8]. The Mg species is a solvent‐separated ion‐pair structure and the others are all coordination polymers with bonds from the metal atoms to sulfonate groups. Compound (I) is a three‐dimensional coordination polymer, (V) is a two‐dimensional coordination polymer and both (II) and (III) are one‐dimensional coordination polymers. The coordination behaviour of the azo ligands and the water ligands, the dimensionality of the coordination polymers and the overall packing motifs of these five structures are contrasted to those of monosulfonate monoazo congers. It is found that (I) and (II) adopt similar structural types to those of monosulfonate species but that the other three structures do not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Defining boundaries of species' habitat across broad spatial scales is often necessary for management decisions, and yet challenging for species that demonstrate differential variation in seasonal habitat use. Spatially explicit indices that incorporate temporal shifts in selection can help overcome such challenges, especially for species of high conservation concern. Greater sage‐grouse Centrocercus urophasianus (hereafter, sage‐grouse), a sagebrush obligate species inhabiting the American West, represents an important case study because sage‐grouse exhibit seasonal habitat patterns, populations are declining in most portions of their range and are central to contemporary national land use policies. Here, we modeled spatiotemporal selection patterns for telemetered sage‐grouse across multiple study sites (1,084 sage‐grouse; 30,690 locations) in the Great Basin. We developed broad‐scale spatially explicit habitat indices that elucidated space use patterns (spring, summer/fall, and winter) and accounted for regional climatic variation using previously published hydrographic boundaries. We then evaluated differences in selection/avoidance of each habitat characteristic between seasons and hydrographic regions. Most notably, sage‐grouse consistently selected areas dominated by sagebrush with few or no conifers but varied in type of sagebrush selected by season and region. Spatiotemporal variation was most apparent based on availability of water resources and herbaceous cover, where sage‐grouse strongly selected upland natural springs in xeric regions but selected larger wet meadows in mesic regions. Additionally, during the breeding period in spring, herbaceous cover was selected strongly in the mesic regions. Lastly, we expanded upon an existing joint–index framework by combining seasonal habitat indices with a probabilistic index of sage‐grouse abundance and space use to produce habitat maps useful for sage‐grouse management. These products can serve as conservation planning tools that help predict expected benefits of restoration activities, while highlighting areas most critical to sustaining sage‐grouse populations. Our joint–index framework can be applied to other species that exhibit seasonal shifts in habitat requirements to help better guide conservation actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prior studies have reported a link between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and risk of adverse neuropsychiatric outcomes including dementia. However it is unclear how prevalent these conditions are prior to TBI and if they are predisposing factors in addition to sequalae. Methods: We studied older (age >55 years) US veterans who were followed for care at Veterans Affairs Medical Centers across the nation from 2000 to 2019. We first identified all veterans with an incident TBI diagnoses defined as no prior TBI diagnosis, having been seen in an emergency department (ED), having a brain imaging scan (primarily CT) within one day of ED visit and with a subsequent new TBI diagnosis in the electronic medical record (EMR). We then determined 2‐year age‐adjusted prevalence rates (rate per 1000 person‐years and 95% confidence interval or CI) for dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) prior to and post incident TBI. We also compared prior TBI prevalence to prevalence among 1:3 matched (on age and index date) veterans without TBI. Results: There were 13,709 primarily male veterans with incident TBI with mean age of 77.7 sd 9.1 years, 81% were non‐Hispanic White. Compared to the 41,127 veterans without TBI (mean age = 77.9, sd 9.1), veterans prior to having an incident TBI had almost a six‐fold greater pre‐TBI age‐adjusted prevalence of dementia (104.9; 95% CI 100.8‐109.0 vs 18.6; 95% CI 17.6‐19.7, p<0.001) and MCI (48.0; 95% CI 45.2‐50.7 vs 8.1; 95% CI 7.4‐8.8, p<0.001). After the incident TBI diagnosis, the age‐adjusted prevalence rates were even higher: dementia (193.5; 95% CI 187.7‐199.2) and MCI (59.3; 95% CI 56.0‐62.6). Conclusions: Among older US veterans, there is a bidirectional association with dementia/ MCI and TBI with very high prevalence prior to TBI (compared to those without TBI) and even greater prevalence after TBI. These findings highlight the importance of prevention strategies for both pre‐ and post‐TBI cognitive impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we used citation analysis to assess the overall impact of major research journals on contemporary accounting research (CAR), and to identify those specific articles exerting the greatest impact on CAR. The general presumption of citation analysis is that the number of citations an article receives is an objective measure of its impact or influence. There have actually been attempts to test this notion by comparing rankings based on citation analyses to those generated by alternative evaluation schemes. For example, Clark [1957] asked a panel of experts to identify those individuals who made the most significant contributions to the psychology profession. He found that expert opinion was more highly correlated with the number of journal citations than with any other measure of eminence, including number of journal publications. This led him to conclude that citation count is the best available measure of the "worth" of a psychologist's research work. Cole and Cole [1967] presented evidence that the quality of a scientist's output (based on citations)was more important than quantity in explaining a variety of aspects of reputation, including receipt of awards, appointments to prestigious academic departments, and being widely known to one,s colleagues. Garfield [1973] showed that every Nobel Prize winner in 1972 was in the top 0.1% of all cited scientists, and he obtained similar results in subsequent years. Finally, Virgo [1977] showed that papers judged to: be most important were consistently cited more often. Based on this evidence we believe a citation analysis of the accounting literature will be of interest to those who wish to evaluate journals and individual articles for their impact on CAR. Some background on the uses and limitations of citation analysis is discussed in section 2. Section 3 describes the details of our data base. An evaluation of journals is presented in section 4, and of the most influential articles in section 5.... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an important risk factor for dementia and is especially common among Veterans. It is unknown whether TBI exposure moderates the effect of other common medical/psychiatric comorbidities that are also important risk factors for dementia in Veterans. If treatable or preventable comorbidities are either especially common or risky in TBI‐exposed Veterans, then this may have important public health implications for dementia prevention. Method: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the Nationwide Veterans Health Administrative inpatient and outpatient data (2001‐2019). We identified all Veterans age 55 years with prior TBI and without baseline dementia (N = 95,139) and age/sex/race‐matched 1:2 with Veterans without prior TBI or baseline dementia (N = 190,278). We compared prevalence of seven common medical/psychiatric comorbidities (hypertension, coronary artery disease (CAD), diabetes, cerebrovascular disease (CVD), epilepsy, depression, and post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)) and associated risk of incident dementia among Veterans with versus without prior TBI. We tested for interaction of each comorbidity with TBI on risk of dementia. We calculated risk of dementia associated with each comorbidity using multivariable hazard ratios (adjusting for demographics and all other comorbidities) and Fine‐Grey competing risk of death. We estimated population attributable risk (PAR) of dementia due to each comorbidity. Result: All comorbidities were more prevalent among Veterans with TBI compared to those without TBI: hypertension +12.5%, CAD +13.6%, diabetes +7.9%, CVD +10.8%, epilepsy +5.7%, depression +21.5%, PTSD +14.9%). All comorbidities were associated with elevated risk for dementia among Veterans with and without TBI. However, there was a significant interaction with TBI such that point estimates were slightly lower among Veterans with TBI (adjusted HRs 1.02‐1.31) versus Veterans without TBI (adjusted HRs 1.03‐1.82). However, the overall PARs for dementia were higher in Veterans with versus without TBI for several comorbidities (depression 8.7% vs. 7.4%; hypertension 3.8% vs. 1.6%; CVD 3.7% vs. 2.0%; epilepsy 2.1% vs. 1.1%), due to their higher prevalence in Veterans with TBI. Conclusion: While treating or preventing medical/psychiatric comorbidities among all Veterans remains a high public health priority, targeting depression, hypertension, CVD, and epilepsy may be especially important for dementia risk reduction among Veterans with prior TBI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address challenges of assessing space weather modeling capabilities, the Community Coordinated Modeling Center is leading a newly established International Forum for Space Weather Modeling Capabilities Assessment. This paper presents preliminary results of validation of modeled foF2 (F2 layer critical frequency) and TEC (total electron content) during the first selected 2013 March storm event (17 March 2013). In this study, we used eight ionospheric models ranging from empirical to physics‐based, coupled ionosphere‐thermosphere and data assimilation models. The quantities we considered are TEC and foF2 changes and percentage changes compared to quiet time background, and the maximum and minimum percentage changes. In addition, we considered normalized percentage changes of TEC. We compared the modeled quantities with ground‐based observations of vertical Global Navigation Satellite System TEC (provided by Massachusetts Institute of Technology Haystack Observatory) and foF2 data (provided by Global Ionospheric Radio Observatory) at the 12 locations selected in middle latitudes of the American and European‐African longitude sectors. To quantitatively evaluate the models' performance, we calculated skill scores including correlation coefficient, root‐mean square error (RMSE), ratio of the modeled to observed maximum percentage changes (yield), and timing error. Our study indicates that average RMSEs of foF2 range from about 1 MHz to 1.5 MHz. The average RMSEs of TEC are between ~5 and ~10 TECU (1 TEC Unit = 1016 el/m2). dfoF2[%] RMSEs are between 15% and 25%, which is smaller than RMSE of dTEC[%] ranging from 30% to 60%. The performance of the models varies with the location and metrics considered. Key Points: foF2/TEC and foF2/TEC changes during a storm predicted by eight ionosphere models were compared with GIRO foF2 and GPS TEC measurementsSkill scores (e.g., correlation coefficient, RMSE, yield, and timing error) were calculatedModel performance strongly depends on the quantities considered, the type of metrics used, and the location considered [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Utah State University Global Assimilation of Ionospheric Measurements‐Gauss Markov model has been used to investigate the distribution of ionospheric plasma during storm times over the continental United States. Storm periods dramatically increase the effects of space weather on the ionosphere and upper atmosphere, leading to impacts on over‐the‐horizon radars, Global Positioning System location determination, spacecraft charging, power grid overloads, and disruption of the Federal Aviation Administration Wide Area Augmentation System to name a few. Four storm periods were investigated where strong storm‐enhanced densities (SEDs) were present: two strong, October 2003 and November 2003, and two moderate, August 2010 and August 2011. It was found that a fundamental difference in the SED formation exists between the strong and moderate storms. For the strong storms, the SED was formed from the plasma in the northern equatorial anomaly crest, with the plasma in the SED channel lifting the closer it came to the high latitudes. For the moderate storms, the SED appeared to be unconnected to the northern anomaly crest but was rather produced locally in the SED channel, along with no corresponding increase in layer height associated with the SED evident in the model. Plain Language Summary: Plasma distributions in the Ionosphere have an impact on communication and geolocation. Storm‐enhanced densities tend to form over midlatitude regions, such as the continental United States. These enhancements tend to disrupt signals such as high‐frequency communications, used by hobbyists and emergency personnel, and geolocation signals, used by airlines, Global Positioning System units, and cell phones. In order to limit the impacts of these disruptions, we need to understand how and why these disruptions form. We looked into the formation of these enhancements by using a data driven model to reproduce periods when they occur. Key Points: Fundamental difference between strong and moderate storm SED formation existsStrong geomagnetic storms form SEDs connected to the Appleton anomaly crests with elevated channel heightsMedium geomagnetic storms form SEDs unconnected to the Appleton anomaly crests with unchanged channel heights [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonpolar AlGaN/GaN heterostructures have the potential to supplant polar heterostructures in infrared optoelectronic devices due to their theoretical advantages stemming from the absence of built‐in polarization fields along nonpolar directions of the nitride wurtzite lattice. However, development of nonpolar m‐plane infrared devices in a broad spectral range has been hampered, so far, by challenges to grow homogeneous high Al‐composition AlGaN on m‐plane GaN. AlxGa1‐xN layers with 0.6< x <0.8 are found to be kinetically unstable under metal‐rich growth conditions by plasma‐assisted molecular‐beam epitaxy. After reviewing recent progress in the field, this paper focuses on the effect of the structure of m‐plane AlxGa1−xN/GaN (x <0.6) superlattices on near‐infrared intersubband absorption. Even at these intermediate Al‐compositions, the effective growth rate of AlGaN is drastically reduced, and the AlGaN‐GaN interface roughness is unexpectedly high. Consequently, accurate determination of layer thicknesses and alloy composition necessitates structural characterization by a combination of scanning transmission electron microscopy and high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction. The energy and linewidth of near‐infrared intersubband transitions are also significantly affected by this unusual growth behavior. The experimental results for intersubband absorption of m‐ and c‐plane superlattices are compared to each other and with numerical calculations, and the main reasons for discrepancies are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Managers require quantitative yet tractable tools that identify areas for restoration yielding effective benefits for targeted wildlife species and the ecosystems they inhabit. As a contemporary example of high national significance for conservation, the persistence of Greater Sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) in the Great Basin is compromised by strongly interacting stressors of conifer expansion, annual grass invasion, and more frequent wildfires occurring in sagebrush ecosystems. Associated restoration treatments to a sagebrush‐dominated state are often costly and may yield relatively little ecological benefit to sage‐grouse if implemented without estimating how Sage‐grouse may respond to treatments, or do not consider underlying processes influencing sagebrush ecosystem resilience to disturbance and resistance to invasive species. Here, we describe example applications of a spatially explicit conservation planning tool (CPT) to inform prioritization of: (1) removal of conifers (i.e., pinyon‐juniper); and (2) wildfire restoration aimed at improving habitat conditions for the Bi‐State Distinct Population Segment of Sage‐grouse along the California–Nevada state line. The CPT measures ecological benefits to sage‐grouse for a given management action through a composite index comprised of resource selection functions and estimates of abundance and space use. For pinyon‐juniper removal, we simulated changes in land‐cover composition following the removal of sparse trees with intact understories, and ranked treatments on the basis of changes in ecological benefits per dollar‐unit of cost. For wildfire restoration, we formulated a conditional model to simulate scenarios for land cover changes (e.g., sagebrush to annual grass) given estimated fire severity and underlying ecosystem processes influencing resilience to disturbance and resistance to invasion by annual grasses. For both applications, we compared CPT rankings to land cover changes along with sagebrush resistance and resilience metrics. Model results demonstrated how the CPT can be an important step in identifying management projects that yield the highest quantifiable benefit to Sage‐grouse while avoiding costly misallocation of resources, and highlight the importance of considering changes in sage‐grouse ecological response and factors influencing sagebrush ecosystem resilience to disturbance and resistance to invasion. This unique framework can be adopted to help inform other management questions aimed at improving habitat for other species across sagebrush and other ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to assess current modeling capability of reproducing storm impacts on total electron content (TEC), we considered quantities such as TEC, TEC changes compared to quiet time values, and the maximum value of the TEC and TEC changes during a storm. We compared the quantities obtained from ionospheric models against ground-based GPS TEC measurements during the 2006 AGU storm event (14-15 December 2006) in the selected eight longitude sectors. We used 15 simulations obtained from eight ionospheric models, including empirical, physics-based, coupled ionosphere-thermosphere, and data assimilation models. To quantitatively evaluate performance of the models in TEC prediction during the storm, we calculated skill scores such as RMS error, Normalized RMS error (NRMSE), ratio of the modeled to observed maximum increase (Yield), and the difference between the modeled peak time and observed peak time. Furthermore, to investigate latitudinal dependence of the performance of the models, the skill scores were calculated for five latitude regions. Our study shows that RMSE of TEC and TEC changes of the model simulations range from about 3 TECU (total electron content unit, 1 TECU = 1016 el m−2) (in high latitudes) to about 13 TECU (in low latitudes), which is larger than latitudinal average GPS TEC error of about 2 TECU. Most model simulations predict TEC better than TEC changes in terms of NRMSE and the difference in peak time, while the opposite holds true in terms of Yield. Model performance strongly depends on the quantities considered, the type of metrics used, and the latitude considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Declines in bird populations in agricultural regions of North America and Europe have been attributed to agricultural industrialization, increases in use of agrochemical application, and increased predation related to habitat modification. Based on count data compiled from Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) from 1974 to 2012, Christmas Bird Count (CBC) collected from 1914 to 2013, and hunter data from Annual Game Take Survey (AGTS) for years 1948–2010, ring‐necked pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) in California have experienced substantial declines in agricultural environments. Using a modeling approach that integrates all three forms of survey data into a joint response abundance index, we found pheasant abundance was related to the amount of harvested and unharvested crop land, types of crops produced, amount of total pesticide applied, minimum temperature, precipitation, and numbers of avian competitors and predators. Specifically, major changes in agricultural practices over the last three decades were associated with declines in pheasant numbers and likely reflected widespread loss of habitat. For example, increases in cropland were associated with increased pheasant abundance during early years of study but this effect decreased through time, such that no association in recent years was evidenced. A post hoc analysis revealed that crops beneficial to pheasant abundance (e.g., barley) have declined substantially in recent decades and were replaced by less advantageous crops (e.g., nut trees). An additional analysis using a restricted data set (1990–2013) indicated recent negative impacts on pheasant numbers associated with land use practices were also associated with relatively high levels of pesticide application. Our results may provide valuable information for management policies aimed at reducing widespread declines in pheasant populations in California and may be applicable to other avian species within agricultural settings. Furthermore, this general analytical approach is not limited to pheasants and could be applied to other taxa for which multiple survey data sources exist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Older adults have the highest and fastest rising incidence of traumatic brain injury (TBI) compared to all other age groups. Few studies have examined the prevalence of pre‐injury dementia among older adults presenting with TBI. None have examined injury characteristics and outcomes specifically among those with pre‐injury dementia. Our aim was to describe prevalence of pre‐injury dementia among older adults hospitalized with TBI in Israel and to examine features of those with versus without pre‐injury dementia. Method: We identified all TBIs recorded in the Israel National Trauma Registry from 2015‐2020 among adults age 65 years and older who were admitted to one of 15 trauma centers. We determined the prevalence of a diagnosis of pre‐injury dementia recorded in the registry and compared baseline demographics, injury features, and hospital outcomes among those with versus without pre‐injury dementia. Result: Among N = 7,788 identified cases of geriatric TBI, 9.8% (N = 762) had pre‐injury dementia. Compared to those without pre‐injury dementia, those with pre‐injury dementia were significantly older (90% vs. 70% age >75 years), more female (58% vs. 47%), had higher rates of injury location of residential institution (24% vs. 7%) or home (63% vs. 58%), and higher rates of injury mechanism of fall (95% vs. 84%; all p<0.01). No differences were identified in Injury Severity Score (ISS) across groups (p = 0.19). However, those with pre‐injury dementia had lower rates of severe TBI (4% vs. 7% Glasgow Coma Scale <9), lower rates of polytrauma (10% vs. 13%), and lower rates of surgical intervention (9% vs. 13%), yet had higher rates of in‐hospital mortality (10% vs. 8%) and new institutionalization post‐discharge (11% vs. 4%; all p<0.02). Conclusion: Approximately 10% of older adults admitted to hospitals in Israel with TBI have dementia compared to only 7% of older adults in the general population (per 2019 national health service data), suggesting that dementia is likely a risk factor for TBI in the elderly. Additionally, admission for a TBI resulted in 10% in‐hospital mortality and 11% new institutionalization post‐discharge among those with pre‐injury dementia. Geriatric TBI prevention, primarily through fall‐prevention, is of high public health importance in Israel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Marijuana ( MJ) use is common. Research shows risks for psychiatric illnesses, including major depressive disorder ( MDD) and cognitive deficits with MJ use, particularly early-onset use. We investigated cognitive function, functional connectivity, and genetic risk with MDD alone and combined with MJ use, and differences between early-vs. late-onset/non- MJ use in youth. Method A total of 74 youth in four groups were studied: healthy control, MDD, frequent MJ use and current/past MDD plus frequent MJ use. Psychiatric symptoms, cognitive performance and demographics were measured. Default mode network ( DMN) brain connectivity was determined. Risk alleles in six genes of interest were evaluated. Results DMN differences among groups in reward-processing and motor control regions were found; the effects of MJ use and MDD were distinct. Early-onset MJ use was associated with lower IQ and hyperconnectivity within areas of the DMN. Early-onset MJ use was associated with the BDNF risk allele. Conclusions Cognitive deficits linked with early-onset MJ use were present within several years after MJ use began and may result from, predispose to, or share a common cause with early-onset MJ use. The DMN was affected by MDD, MJ and their combination, as well as by early-onset MJ use. BDNF carrier state may predispose to early-onset MJ use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mine reclamation succeeds when healthy, self-sustaining ecosystems develop on previously mined lands. Regulations require reclamation of ecosystem services; however, there are few specified targets, and those that are presented are vague. Sequencing genomic DNA and transcribed RNA from environmental samples may provide critical supportive information for attempts to recreate ecosystem functions from the ground up on disturbed lands. In this review, we highlight the use of genomics to meet mine closure goals, to enhance ecosystem development, and to optimize ecosystem services inherent in self-sustaining reclaimed ecosystems. We address the development of environmental genomics-sequencing and analysis of environmentally derived DNA-to characterize microbial communities on mine sites. We then provide four areas where genomics has proven instrumental for informing management and assisting in reclamation of mine sites in the form of bioreactors, passive treatment systems, novel gene discovery, and DNA barcoding. Finally, we describe how recently developed techniques have transferable value to mine reclamation and provide evidence for future applications of genomics and the necessary steps to integrate these data into comprehensive management of mined sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predictive species distributional models are a cornerstone of wildlife conservation planning. Constructing such models requires robust underpinning science that integrates formerly disparate data types to achieve effective species management., Greater sage-grouse Centrocercus urophasianus, hereafter 'sage-grouse' populations are declining throughout sagebrush-steppe ecosystems in North America, particularly within the Great Basin, which heightens the need for novel management tools that maximize the use of available information., Herein, we improve upon existing species distribution models by combining information about sage-grouse habitat quality, distribution and abundance from multiple data sources. To measure habitat, we created spatially explicit maps depicting habitat selection indices ( HSI) informed by >35 500 independent telemetry locations from >1600 sage-grouse collected over 15 years across much of the Great Basin. These indices were derived from models that accounted for selection at different spatial scales and seasons. A region-wide HSI was calculated using the HSI surfaces modelled for 12 independent subregions and then demarcated into distinct habitat quality classes., We also employed a novel index to describe landscape patterns of sage-grouse abundance and space use ( AUI). The AUI is a probabilistic composite of the following: (i) breeding density patterns based on the spatial configuration of breeding leks and associated trends in male attendance; and (ii) year-round patterns of space use indexed by the decreasing probability of use with increasing distance to leks. The continuous AUI surface was then reclassified into two classes representing high and low/no use and abundance., Synthesis and applications. Using the example of sage-grouse, we demonstrate how the joint application of indices of habitat selection, abundance and space use derived from multiple data sources yields a composite map that can guide effective allocation of management intensity across multiple spatial scales. As applied to sage-grouse, the composite map identifies spatially explicit management categories within sagebrush steppe that are most critical to sustaining sage-grouse populations as well as those areas where changes in land use would likely have minimal impact. Importantly, collaborative efforts among stakeholders guide which intersections of habitat selection indices and abundance and space use classes are used to define management categories. Because sage-grouse are an umbrella species, our joint-index modelling approach can help target effective conservation for other sagebrush obligate species and can be readily applied to species in other ecosystems with similar life histories, such as central-placed breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recruitment issues are common in couple relationship education ( CRE). Hence, learning more about factors shaping attitudes toward CRE could aid with these efforts. This study used dyadic data techniques to assess how common recruitment barriers are associated with attitudes toward CRE. The study also investigated differences by gender and income in a sample of 99 couples. Results show that time pressure influenced attitudes toward CRE differently for male and female partners, and time and vocational stressors were more impactful for those with higher incomes. The findings underscore the need to implement CRE marketing efforts reflective of the attitudes and needs of the audience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although cysteine desulphydrase activity has been purified and characterized from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the gene encoding this activity in vivo has never been defined. We show that the full-length IRC7 gene, encoded by the YFR055W open reading frame, encodes a protein with cysteine desulphydrase activity. Irc7p purified to homogeneity is able to utilize l-cysteine as a substrate, producing pyruvate and hydrogen sulphide as products of the reaction. Purified Irc7p also utilized l-cystine and some other cysteine conjugates, but not l-cystathionine or l-methionine, as substrates. We further show that, in vivo, the IRC7 gene is both necessary and sufficient for yeast to grow on l-cysteine as a nitrogen source, and that overexpression of the gene results in increased H2S production. Strains overexpressing IRC7 are also hypersensitive to a toxic analogue, S-ethyl- l-cysteine. While IRC7 has been identified as playing a critical role in converting cysteine conjugates to volatile thiols that are important in wine aroma, its biological role in yeast cells is likely to involve regulation of cysteine and redox homeostasis. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is thought to be a risk factor for Parkinson disease (PD), but results are conflicting. Many studies do not account for confounding or reverse causation. We sought to address these concerns by quantifying risk of PD after TBI compared to non-TBI trauma (NTT; defined as fractures). Methods Using inpatient/emergency department (ED) International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision code data for California hospitals from 2005-2006, we identified patients aged ≥55 years with TBI (n = 52,393) or NTT (n = 113,406) and without baseline PD or dementia who survived hospitalization. Using Kaplan-Meier estimates and Cox proportional hazards models (adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, income, comorbidities, health care use, and trauma severity), we estimated risk of PD after TBI during follow-up ending in 2011. We also assessed interaction with mechanism of injury (fall vs nonfall) and effect of TBI severity (mild vs moderate/severe) and TBI frequency (1 TBI vs >1 TBI). Results TBI patients were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with PD compared to NTT patients (1.7% vs 1.1%, p < 0.001, adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 1.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.31-1.58). Risk of PD was similar for TBI sustained via falls versus nonfalls (interaction p = 0.6). Assessment by TBI severity (mild TBI: HR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.04-1.48; moderate/severe TBI: HR = 1.50, 95% CI = 1.35-1.66) and TBI frequency (1 TBI: HR = 1.45, 95% CI = 1.30-1.60; >1 TBI: HR = 1.87, 95% CI = 1.58-2.21) revealed a dose response. Interpretation Among patients aged ≥55 years presenting to inpatient/ED settings with trauma, TBI is associated with a 44% increased risk of developing PD over 5 to 7 years that is unlikely to be due to confounding or reverse causation. Ann Neurol 2015;77:987-995 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT We examined demographic parameters and factors influencing nest survival of female greater sage-grouse ( Centrocercus urophasianus) in northeastern California. Additionally, we used known-fate models in program MARK to examine bi-weekly survival rates of females over an 8-month period (Mar-Oct, 2007-2009). Nest survival rate, assuming a 38-day exposure period, was 41% and was positively associated with grass height ( [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an established risk factor for dementia. Risk estimates have varied substantially across studies with recent studies reporting higher risk in veterans, men, or at the extremes of age. We performed the largest and most comprehensive systematic review of risk of post‐TBI dementia with the aim of specifically investigating contributors to heterogeneity including age, sex, and veteran status. Method: We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of all‐cause dementia after all‐severity TBI (search window 1/1990‐1/2019). We identified observational studies reporting age‐adjusted risk for all‐cause dementia after TBI among individuals with average age ≥40 years. Data were pooled using random‐effects models. Between study variability was assessed using the I2 index. We further evaluated sources of heterogeneity according to covariates including mean age, sex distribution (majority male vs. majority female), veteran status, design (case‐control vs. cohort), outcome/exposure ascertainment (ICD‐9 vs. other) and publication year using sub‐groups and meta‐regression analysis. Funnel plot inspection and Egger and Begg statistics were used to evaluate publication bias. Result: Data from 41 studies representing N=7,736,173 individuals were included in the analysis. Overall pooled risk ratio (RR) for dementia after TBI was 1.71 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.47,1.98) with no evidence of publication bias. There was substantial heterogeneity (I2= 98.6%; Q test p<0.001). Removal of each study in turn did not reduce heterogeneity. No significant differences were observed in risk estimates for dementia after TBI according to veteran status, study design, outcome/exposure ascertainment, or publication year (all p's >0.09). However, risk estimates were significantly higher in studies with lower mean age (mean age <50y RR 2.52 [1.80,3.53]; 50‐70y RR 1.73 [1.34,2.24]; >70y RR 1.41 [1.17,1.71]; p=0.01; see Figure) and in studies that were majority male (majority male RR 2.16 [1.74‐2.69]; majority female RR 1.44 [1.22,1.70]; p=0.01). Mean age and sex distribution accounted for 27.5% and 27.9%, respectively, of the observed heterogeneity. Conclusion: TBI is associated with a 71% increased risk for dementia. While risk was not modified by veteran status, risk was significantly higher in studies with younger mean age and majority male populations. These findings may inform targeted TBI prevention efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The development of anthropogenic structures, especially those related to energy resources, in sagebrush ecosystems is an important concern among developers, conservationists, and land managers in relation to greater sage-grouse ( Centrocercus urophasianus; hereafter, sage-grouse) populations. Sage-grouse are dependent on sagebrush ecosystems to meet their seasonal life-phase requirements, and research indicates that anthropogenic structures can adversely affect sage-grouse populations. Land management agencies have attempted to reduce the negative effects of anthropogenic development by assigning surface use (SU) designations, such as no surface occupancy, to areas around leks (breeding grounds). However, rationale for the size of these areas is often challenged. To help inform this issue, we used a spatial analysis of sage-grouse utilization distributions (UDs) to quantify seasonal (spring, summer and fall, winter) sage-grouse space use in relation to leks. We sampled UDs from 193 sage-grouse (11,878 telemetry locations) across 4 subpopulations within the Bi-State Distinct Population Segment (DPS, bordering California and Nevada) during 2003-2009. We quantified the volume of each UD (vUD) within a range of areas that varied in size and were centered on leks, up to a distance of 30 km from leks. We also quantified the percentage of nests within those areas. We then estimated the diminishing gains of vUD as area increased and produced continuous response curves that allow for flexibility in land management decisions. We found nearly 90% of the total vUD (all seasons combined) was contained within 5 km of leks, and we identified variation in vUD for a given distance related to season and migratory status. Five kilometers also represented the 95th percentile of the distribution of nesting distances. Because diminishing gains of vUD was not substantial until distances exceeded 8 km, managers should consider the theoretical optimal distances for SU designation between 5.0 km and 7.5 km, depending on migratory status. Although these results represent space use for sage-grouse within the Bi-State DPS, our results likely have broad relevance to other areas with similar landscape characteristics and patterns of space use. © 2013 The Wildlife Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To report our experience with the efficacy and safety of anakinra for acute gouty arthritis in medically complex hospitalized patients. Methods We reviewed the hospital charts of 26 patients treated with anakinra for crystal-induced arthritis since 2007. Demographics, comorbid conditions, reason for anakinra use, response to treatment, and any adverse outcomes were recorded. Results Twenty-six patients received 40 courses of anakinra therapy. In 67% of patients, pain improved significantly within 24 hours, and complete resolution of signs and symptoms of gout occurred by day 5 in 72.5% of patients. Seven patients received multiple courses with no decrement in response with repeated treatments. Anakinra was well tolerated and no adverse outcomes were attributed to the medication. Only 1 patient appeared to be refractory to this form of interleukin-1 inhibition. Conclusion Anakinra is an effective and safe alternative treatment for acute gouty arthritis in medically complex hospitalized patients who fail or cannot undergo more conventional therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) has been conceptualized as a large-scale network disruption, but the specific network targeted has not been fully characterized. We sought to delineate the affected network in patients with clinical PSP. Methods Using task-free functional magnetic resonance imaging, we mapped intrinsic connectivity to the dorsal midbrain tegmentum (dMT), a region that shows focal atrophy in PSP. Two healthy control groups (1 young, 1 older) were used to define and replicate the normal connectivity pattern, and patients with PSP were compared to an independent matched healthy control group on measures of network connectivity. Results Healthy young and older subjects showed a convergent pattern of connectivity to the dMT, including brainstem, cerebellar, diencephalic, basal ganglia, and cortical regions involved in skeletomotor, oculomotor, and executive control. Patients with PSP showed significant connectivity disruptions within this network, particularly within corticosubcortical and cortico-brainstem interactions. Patients with more severe functional impairment showed lower mean dMT network connectivity scores. Interpretation This study defines a PSP-related intrinsic connectivity network in the healthy brain and demonstrates the sensitivity of network-based imaging methods to PSP-related physiological and clinical changes. Ann Neurol 2013;73:603-616 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We made a library of Saccharomyces cerevisiae F1 hybrids from all possible crosses of 16 wild-type strains, including two common laboratory strains and two commercial winemaking varieties. Fourteen of the starting strains have been sequenced. Thus, the sequences of both genomes are known in 182 novel hybrids, and the sequence of one genome is known in 56. All tested strains sporulated. Fertilities were in the range 0-100%. Hybrids showed no more variation than parental strains for ethanol production, ethanol tolerance or growth at temperature extremes, but some F1s appeared to display hybrid vigour (heterosis). We tested four tetrads from one hybrid for their ability to grow at low temperature or in the presence of an inhibitory concentration of ethanol. Only one F2 was as tolerant as the most tolerant F0 parent. A few showed intermediate tolerance, but most were less tolerant than either parent or the F1 hybrid, consistent with uncoupling of genes contributing to an optimized quantitative trait. The diversity and structure of the library should make it useful for analysis of genetic interactions among diverse strains, quantitative inheritance and heterosis, and for breeding. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the concentrations of several types of organochlorine pesticides (OCs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in blubber biopsies from fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) from Mexico's Gulf of California. The study obtained subcutaneous blubber biopsies from 21 adult fin whales by firing biopsies bolts, stopper, and floater with a 65-kilogram power-shot crossbow. It reported that OC levels in the region's fin whale population were generally lower than the other regions, with the most abundant OCs being the DDTs. It also revealed that the most abundant PCBs congeners found in the samples were PCBs 138, 153, and 180. It recommended further research on the topic to better understand the effect of these compounds on the population's health.

We evaluated the arginine growth hormone (GH) stimulation test for the diagnosis of cerebellar-type multiple system atrophy (MSAc) in patients with ataxia. Fourteen subjects with MSAc, 11 with idiopathic late-onset cerebellar ataxia (ILOCA), 10 with familial ataxia, and 10 healthy controls were tested. After pituitary GH deficiency was excluded, subjects underwent arginine testing. Peak serum GH response was analyzed. No significant differences in peak GH response were found between subject populations. Thirty-three percent of MSAc subjects mounted responses >10μg/l GH. Thirty-six percent of ILOCA subjects and 40 percent of healthy controls mounted responses <4μg/l GH. Arginine thus appears to be unreliable for the diagnosis of MSAc. ANN NEUROL 2010;67:404-408 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humans have used S. cerevisiae to make alcoholic beverages for at least 5000 years and now this super-model research organism is central to advances in our biological understanding. Current models for S. cerevisiae suggest that its population comprises distinct domesticated and natural groups as well as mosaic strains, but we generally know little of the forces which shape its population structure. In order to test the roles that ecology and geography play in shaping the S. cerevisiae species we examined nine variable microsatellite loci in 172 strains of S. cerevisiae isolated from two spontaneous grape juice ferments, soil, flowers, apiaries and bark in New Zealand. Bayesian analysis shows that the S. cerevisiae in NZ comprise a subdivided but interbreeding population that out-crosses ∼20% of the time. Some strains contributing to spontaneous ferments cluster with NZ soil/bark isolates, but others cluster with isolates from French oak barrels. It seems some strains have been globally dispersed by humans in oak barrels while some are locally vectored by insects. These data suggest geography is more important than ecology in shaping S. cerevisiae's population structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]