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Abstract Global expansion in wind energy development is a notable achievement of the international community’s effort to reduce carbon emissions during energy production. However, the increasing number of wind turbines have unintended consequences for migratory birds and bats. Wind turbine curtailment and other mitigation strategies can reduce fatalities, but improved spatial and temporal data are needed to identify the most effective way for wind energy development and volant migratory species to coexist. Mexican free-tailed bats (Tadarida brasiliensis mexicana) account for a large proportion of known bat fatalities at wind facilities in the southwestern US. We examined the geographic concordance between existing wind energy generation facilities, areas of high wind potential amenable for future deployment of wind facilities, and seasonally suitable habitat for these bats. We used ecological niche modeling to determine species distribution during each of 4 seasons. We used a multi-criteria GIS-based approach to produce a wind turbine siting suitability map. We identified seasonal locations with highest and lowest potential for the species’ probability of occurrence, providing a potential explanation for the higher observed fatalities during fall migration. Thirty percent of 33,606 wind turbines within the southwestern US occurred in highly suitable areas for Mexican free-tailed bats, primarily in west Texas. There is also broad spatial overlap between areas of high wind potential and areas of suitable habitat for Mexican free-tailed bats. Because of this high degree of overlap, our results indicate that post-construction strategies, such as curtailing the timing of operations and deterrents, would be more effective for bat conservation than strategic siting of new wind energy installations.

To exploit the full industrial potential of additive manufacturing (AM) beyond prototyping, the resource-consuming identification of the optimal processing conditions needs to be minimized. This task becomes more challenging when multiple properties of the part shall be simultaneously optimized. We utilize machine learning (ML) methods in a case study on laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) of a Zr-based glass-forming alloy. Our experiments show that processing parameters affect density and amorphicity opposingly, demonstrating the efficacy of our ML-based approach. We employ multi-objective optimization using Gaussian Process Regression to model and predict target properties and their uncertainties of parts fabricated by LPBF – a widely used metal AM technology. With density and amorphicity as target parameters, we optimize models using the Pareto front facilitated by the Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II. Despite deviations in the amorphicity data, we demonstrate this method to identify the high-performance region of the process parameters and its ability to be iteratively enhanced with additional experimental data. This bi-objective optimization approach provides a robust toolset for navigating LPBF processing. It can be easily extended to a larger set of target properties and transferred to further AM technologies.

Drug addiction is considered a worldwide concern and one of the most prevailing causes of death globally. Opioids are highly addictive drugs, and one of the most common opioids that is frequently used clinically is fentanyl. The potential harmful effects of chronic exposure to opioids on the heart are still to be elucidated. Although β-lactam antibiotics are well recognized for their ability to fight bacteria, its protective effect in the brain and liver has been reported. In this study, we hypothesize that β-lactam antibiotic, ceftriaxone, and the novel synthetic non-antibiotic β-lactam, MC-100093, are cardioprotective against fentanyl induced-cardiac injury by upregulating xCT expression. Mice were exposed to repeated low dose (0.05 mg/kg, i.p.) of fentanyl for one week and then challenged on day 9 with higher dose of fentanyl (1 mg/kg, i.p.). This study investigated cardiac histopathology and target genes and proteins in serum and cardiac tissues in mice exposed to fentanyl overdose and β-lactams. We revealed that fentanyl treatment induced cardiac damage as evidenced by elevated cardiac enzymes (troponin I). Furthermore, fentanyl treatment caused large aggregations of inflammatory cells and elevation in the areas and volumes of myocardial fibers, indicating hypertrophy and severe cardiac damage. Ceftriaxone and MC-100093 treatment, However, induced cardioprotective effects as evidenced by marked reduction in cardiac enzymes (troponin I) and changes in histopathology. Furthermore, ceftriaxone and MC-100093 treatment decreased the levels of hypertrophic genes (α-MHC & β-MHC), apoptotic (caspase-3), and inflammatory markers (IL-6 & NF-κB). This study reports for the first time the cardioprotective effect of β-lactams against fentanyl-induced cardiac injury. Further studies are greatly encouraged to completely identify the cardioprotective properties of ceftriaxone and MC-100093.

Orientation: Traffic officers fulfil a vital role in reducing road accidents and preventing road deaths. The commitment of traffic officers to meeting the expectations of both government and the public in these respects is vital. Research purpose: The purpose of the study was to explore how an employee value proposition (EVP) affects commitment and the intention-to-serve among traffic officers – the focus of this study being traffic officers deployed in the province of the Eastern Cape (EC), South Africa. Motivation for the study: From a human resource or organisational perspective, it is necessary to determine whether an EVP serves the goals of the organisation and meets the expectations of employees, as meeting both goals and expectations has a bearing on organisational success. Research approach/design and method: The purpose was to establish a link between EVP, affective commitment and intention-to-serve and was designed in a cross-sectional research manner. This study adopted a quantitative approach during which data were collected across the EC province from 376 operational traffic officers from junior to first supervisory level and employed by the EC Department of Transport. STATISTICA version 13 was used for the processing of data. Main findings: Employee satisfaction with the EVP and affective commitment were unconfirmed. In terms of the two subfactors of intention-to-serve, namely intent-to-perform and intent-to-use-discretion, intent-to-perform obtained the higher scores. The EVP was found to be a predictor of both affective commitment and intention-to-serve. Practical/managerial implications: The study makes a case for revisiting the EVP offered to traffic officers, and recommendations in this respect are provided. Contribution/value-add: This study is a prima facie case that focusses on an EVP in the context of traffic officers in South Africa and, specifically, traffic officers in the EC. Also, based on the databases searched, little research was found that focussed on intention-to-serve from the perspective of traffic officers.

Background: Revision total knee (TKR) and hip (THR) arthroplasty surgeries are disincentivized due to unfavorable reimbursement rates, surgical times, and complication rates. Our study investigates secondary benefits of performing these surgeries by generating subsequent cases for surgeons and practices. Methods: Patients undergoing TKR and THR between April 1, 2011, and January 1, 2019, at our tertiary academic institution were analyzed. Patients were identified with Current Procedural Terminology codes for TKR and THR. We calculated a subsequent surgery rate on the same or different joint by the initial surgeon or another surgeon within the practice to determine the procedure yield after initial revision arthroplasty. Results: One thousand six hundred twenty-five patients met inclusion criteria. Six hundred forty-nine (39.9%) patients received at least one subsequent procedure on any joint by any orthopaedic surgeon in the practice. Four hundred five patients (24.9%) underwent another procedure on any joint by the same surgeon. Two hundred sixty patients (16.0%) underwent another procedure on the same joint by the same surgeon, with 109 cases (41.9%) being a planned second stage of a 2-stage revision for infection. Two hundred eighty-five patients (17.5%) underwent another procedure on a different joint by the same surgeon, with 122 of these patients (42.8%) undergoing at least one primary total hip or knee arthroplasty. Conclusions: TKRs and THRs can increase surgeon and practice volumes through the generation of future cases, which are primarily the second stage of a 2-stage revision or primary joint arthroplasties on other joints.

Abstract The decline of the iconic monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) in North America has motivated research on the impacts of land use and land cover (LULC) change and climate variability on monarch habitat and population dynamics. We investigated spring and fall trends in LULC, milkweed and nectar resources over a 20-year period, and ~ 30 years of climate variables in Mexico and Texas, U.S. This region supports spring breeding, and spring and fall migration during the annual life cycle of the monarch. We estimated a − 2.9% decline in milkweed in Texas, but little to no change in Mexico. Fall and spring nectar resources declined

Chronic exposure to opioids can lead to downregulation of astrocytic glutamate transporter 1 (GLT-1), which regulates the majority of glutamate uptake. Studies from our lab revealed that beta-lactam antibiotic, ceftriaxone, attenuated hydrocodone-induced downregulation of GLT-1 as well as cystine/glutamate antiporter (xCT) expression in central reward brain regions. In this study, we investigated the effects of escalating doses of morphine and tested the efficacy of novel synthetic non-antibiotic drug, MC-100093, and ceftriaxone in attenuating the effects of morphine exposure in the expression of GLT-1, xCT, and neuroinflammatory factors (IL-6 and TGF-β) in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). This study also investigated the effects of morphine and beta-lactams in locomotor activity, spontaneous alternation percentage (SAP) and number of entries in Y maze since opioids have effects in locomotor sensitization. Mice were exposed to moderate dose of morphine (20 mg/kg, i.p.) on days 1, 3, 5, 7, and a higher dose of morphine (150 mg/kg, i.p.) on day 9, and these mice were then behaviorally tested and euthanized on Day 10. Western blot analysis showed that exposure to morphine downregulated GLT-1 and xCT expression in the NAc, and both MC-100093 and ceftriaxone attenuated these effects. In addition, morphine exposure increased IL-6 mRNA and TGF-β mRNA expression, and MC-100093 and ceftriaxone attenuated only the effect on IL-6 mRNA expression in the NAc. Furthermore, morphine exposure induced an increase in distance travelled, and MC-100093 and ceftriaxone attenuated this effect. In addition, morphine exposure decreased the SAP and increased the number of arm entries in Y maze, however, neither MC-100093 nor ceftriaxone showed any attenuating effect. Our findings demonstrated for the first time that MC-100093 and ceftriaxone attenuated morphine-induced downregulation of GLT-1 and xCT expression, and morphine-induced increase in neuroinflammatory factor, IL-6, as well as hyperactivity. These findings revealed the beneficial therapeutic effects of MC-100093 and ceftriaxone against the effects of exposure to escalated doses of morphine.

Seed quality traits of oilseed rape, Brassica napus (B. napus), exhibit quantitative inheritance determined by its genetic makeup and the environment via the mediation of a complex genetic architecture of hundreds to thousands of genes. Thus, instead of single gene analysis, network-based systems genomics and genetics approaches that combine genotype, phenotype, and molecular phenotypes offer a promising alternative to uncover this complex genetic architecture. In the current study, systems genetics approaches were used to explore the genetic regulation of lignin traits in B. napus seeds. Four QTL (qLignin_A09_1, qLignin_A09_2, qLignin_A09_3, and qLignin_C08) distributed on two chromosomes were identified for lignin content. The qLignin_A09_2 and qLignin_C08 loci were homologous QTL from the A and C subgenomes, respectively. Genome-wide gene regulatory network analysis identified eighty-three subnetworks (or modules); and three modules with 910 genes in total, were associated with lignin content, which was confirmed by network QTL analysis. eQTL (expression quantitative trait loci) analysis revealed four cis-eQTL genes including lignin and flavonoid pathway genes, cinnamoyl-CoA-reductase (CCR1), and TRANSPARENT TESTA genes TT4, TT6, TT8, as causal genes. The findings validated the power of systems genetics to identify causal regulatory networks and genes underlying complex traits. Moreover, this information may enable the research community to explore new breeding strategies, such as network selection or gene engineering, to rewire networks to develop climate resilience crops with better seed quality.

The global decline of pollinators, particularly insects, underscores the importance of enhanced monitoring of their populations and habitats. However, monitoring some pollinator habitat is challenging due to widespread species distributions and shifts in habitat requirements through seasons and life stages. The monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus), a migratory insect pollinator that breeds widely throughout North America, presents a unique case study for testing a sampling framework to overcome these challenges. Monarchs exhibit discrete resource needs across life stages (e.g., larval requirement for milkweed, adult requirement for floral nectar), utilizing many land use types across their extensive geographic range during breeding and migration seasons. The Integrated Monarch Monitoring Program (IMMP) uses a standardized protocol with a generalized random tessellation stratified (GRTS) sampling design to gather spatially balanced and ecologically representative information on monarch habitats within the United States. The IMMP is applicable to various land use types and habitats used by breeding monarchs and may be extended to sites outside of the GRTS design to collect data on non-random sites of interest, such as legacy or conservation sites. Additionally, the IMMP’s modular design and publicly available training allows for broad participation, including involvement from community scientists. Here, we summarize habitat metrics (milkweed and floral resources) across 1,233 sites covering much of the monarch’s breeding range. We examine variation in milkweed density and floral resource availability on probabilistic (random) and non-probabilistic (convenience) samples and among land use types (site types). Additionally, we assess resource availability within core geographies for monarch breeding and migration, specifically within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Monarch Conservation Units (western, northern, and southern United States). Milkweed density, floral frequency, and floral richness were higher on non-random sites and in the North region. Among site types, milkweed density was highest on Rights-of-Way and Unclassified Grassland, while floral frequency was lowest on Rights-of-Way. The IMMP represents the first field-based habitat monitoring program of this scale for monarchs, yielding a robust dataset on monarchs and their habitats across their breeding range and offering a framework for surveying the habitat of insect species with diverse habitat requirements or widespread distributions.

BackgroundSudden death accounts for approximately 10% of deaths among working-age adults and is associated with poor air quality. Objectives: To identify high-risk groups and potential modifiers and mediators of risk, we explored previously established associations between fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and sudden death stratified by potential risk factors.MethodsSudden death victims in Wake County, NC, from 1 March 2013 to 28 February 2015 were identified by screening Emergency Medical Systems reports and adjudicated (n = 399). Daily PM2.5 concentrations for Wake County from the Air Quality Data Mart were linked to event and control periods. Potential modifiers included greenspace metrics, clinical conditions, left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR). Using a case-crossover design, conditional logistic regression estimated the OR (95%CI) for sudden death for a 5 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 with a 1-day lag, adjusted for temperature and humidity, across risk factor strata.ResultsIndividuals having LVH or an NLR above 2.5 had PM2.5 associations of greater magnitude than those without [with LVH OR: 1.90 (1.04, 3.50); NLR > 2.5: 1.25 (0.89, 1.76)]. PM2.5 was generally less impactful for individuals living in areas with higher levels of greenspace.ConclusionLVH and inflammation may be the final step in the causal pathway whereby poor air quality and traditional risk factors trigger arrhythmia or myocardial ischemia and sudden death. The combination of statistical evidence with clinical knowledge can inform medical providers of underlying risks for their patients generally, while our findings here may help guide interventions to mitigate the incidence of sudden death.

Opioid-related deaths are attributed to overdoses, and fentanyl overdose has been on the rise in many parts of the world, including the USA. Glutamate transporter 1 (GLT-1) has been identified as a therapeutic target in several preclinical models of substance use disorders, and β-lactams effectively enhance its expression and function. In the current study, we characterized the metabolomic profile of the nucleus accumbens (NAc) in fentanyl-overdose mouse models, and we evaluated the protective effects of the functional enhancement of GLT-1 using β-lactams, ceftriaxone, and MC-100093. BALB/c mice were divided into four groups: control, fentanyl, fentanyl/ceftriaxone, and fentanyl/MC-100093. While the control group was intraperitoneally (i.p.) injected with normal saline simultaneously with other groups, all fentanyl groups were i.p. injected with 1 mg/kg of fentanyl as an overdose after habituation with four repetitive non-consecutive moderate doses (0.05 mg/kg) of fentanyl for a period of seven days. MC-100093 (50 mg/kg) and ceftriaxone (200 mg/kg) were i.p. injected from days 5 to 9. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used for metabolomics, and Western blotting was performed to determine the expression of target proteins. Y-maze spontaneous alternation performance and the open field activity monitoring system were used to measure behavioral manifestations. Fentanyl overdose altered the abundance of about 30 metabolites, reduced the expression of GLT-1, and induced the expression of inflammatory mediators IL-6 and TLR-4 in the NAc. MC-100093 and ceftriaxone attenuated the effects of fentanyl-induced downregulation of GLT-1 and upregulation of IL-6; however, only ceftriaxone attenuated fentanyl-induced upregulation of TRL4 expression. Both of the β-lactams attenuated the effects of fentanyl overdose on locomotor activities but did not induce significant changes in the overall metabolomic profile. Our findings revealed that the exposure to a high dose of fentanyl causes alterations in key metabolic pathways in the NAc. Pretreatment with ceftriaxone and MC-100093 normalized fentanyl-induced downregulation of GLT-1 expression with subsequent attenuation of neuroinflammation as well as the hyperactivity, indicating that β-lactams may be promising drugs for treating fentanyl use disorder.

Returning monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) to sustainable levels of abundance will require an array of contributors to protect and restore habitat over broad areas. Due to the diversity and scale of land managed by electric power companies across the monarch range, plus an additional 32 million hectares needed for new solar arrays by 2050 to meet renewable energy goals, the industry may have potential to contribute to monarch conservation. However, it is challenging to clearly understand an individual company’s potential for monarch conservation because of the scale and distribution of their specific land assets (ranging from 4,800 to 240,000 hectares in this study alone), the complexity of monarch science, and the lack of a science-based approach for evaluating large land assets for monarch habitat. With monarchs potentially being protected under the United States Endangered Species Act in the future and thereby limiting land management approaches, there is interest from electric power companies to understand how their lands relate to monarchs. In collaboration with companies, we developed a GIS-based model to identify company landholdings that contain high-quality monarch habitat and applied the model to specific landholdings of eight power companies in the United States. We then facilitated discussions with company teams to balance conservation goals, corporate risk, and social opinion. This paper describes non-confidential results for developing a national GIS-based monarch habitat model and applying it to electric power companies who are considering monarch conservation while simultaneously transitioning to a new clean energy future. The model and applied experience may be useful for other organizations working across large landscapes to manage monarchs.

Background: A shift toward performance, cost, outcomes, and patient satisfaction has occurred with healthcare reform promoting value-based programs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between patient satisfaction and value with treatment in a cohort of patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA). Methods: Value was determined by the relationship of treatment outcome with episodic cost. Measurements included both clinical outcomes and patient-reported outcomes. Participating surgeons took part in the modified Delphi method resulting in an algorithm measuring patient value. Treatment outcome, cost, and resultant value (outcome/cost) of both TKA and THA were evaluated using binomial logistic regression by adjusting for age, gender, body mass index, Charlson comorbidity index, tobacco, education, and income with patient-reported satisfaction as the outcome. Results: This study had a total of 909 patients (TKA n = 438; THA n = 471), with an average age of 67 (TKA) and 65 (THA) years. Patient satisfaction shared a significant positive relationship with treatment outcome for TKA (odds ratio [OR] = 1.53, confidence interval [CI] = 1.35-1.73, P < .001) and THA (OR = 1.93, CI = 1.62-2.29, P < .001). Higher value was associated with a significantly higher odds of patient satisfaction for both TKA (OR = 1.39, CI = 1.25-1.54, P < .001) and THA (OR = 1.70, CI = 1.47-1.97, P < .001). Conclusions: This study showed a positive relationship between treatment outcome but not cost with subsequent value and patient satisfaction. This method provides a promising approach to comprehensively evaluate outcomes, cost, and value of total joint arthroplasty procedures. This approach can help predict the probability of value-driven patient satisfaction.

Abstract Bats provide ecologically and agriculturally important ecosystem services but are currently experiencing population declines caused by multiple environmental stressors, including mortality from white-nose syndrome and wind energy development. Analyses of the current and future health and viability of these species may support conservation management decision making. Demographic modeling provides a quantitative tool for decision makers and conservation managers to make more informed decisions, but widespread adoption of these tools can be limited because of the complexity of the mathematical, statistical, and computational components involved in implementing these models. In this work, we provide an exposition of the BatTool R package, detailing the primary components of the matrix projection model, a publicly accessible graphical user interface ( https://rconnect.usgs.gov/battool ) facilitating user-defined scenario analyses, and its intended uses and limitations (Wiens et al., US Geol Surv Data Release 2022; Wiens et al., US Geol Surv Softw Release 2022). We present a case study involving wind energy permitting, weighing the effects of potential mortality caused by a hypothetical wind energy facility on the projected abundance of four imperiled bat species in the Midwestern United States.

Abstract Migratory waterfowl are an important resource for consumptive and non‐consumptive users alike and provide tremendous economic value in North America. These birds rely on a complex matrix of public and private land for forage and roosting during migration and wintering periods, and substantial conservation effort focuses on increasing the amount and quality of target habitat. Yet, the value of habitat is a function not only of a site's resources but also of its geographic position and weather. To quantify this value, we used a continental‐scale energetics‐based model of daily dabbling duck movement to assess the marginal value of lands across the contiguous United States during the non‐breeding period (September to May). We examined effects of eliminating each habitat node (32 × 32 km) in both a particularly cold and a particularly warm winter, asking which nodes had the largest effect on survival. The marginal value of habitat nodes for migrating dabbling ducks was a function of forage and roosting habitat but, more importantly, of geography (especially latitude and region). Irrespective of weather, nodes in the Southeast, central East Coast, and California made the largest positive contributions to survival. Conversely, nodes in the Midwest, Northeast, Florida, and the Pacific Northwest had consistent negative effects. Effects (positive and negative) of more northerly nodes occurred in late fall or early spring when climate was often severe and was most variable. Importance and effects of many nodes varied considerably between a cold and a warm winter. Much of the Midwest and central Great Plains benefited duck survival in a warm winter, and projected future warming may improve the value of lands in these regions, including many National Wildlife Refuges, for migrating dabbling ducks. Our results highlight the geographic variability in habitat value, as well as shifts that may occur in these values due to climate change.

Abstract Satellite telemetry is critical for collecting fine-scale temporal and spatial data on individual animals that has broad-scale applicability at population and species levels. There have been significant advances in the remote deployment of satellite telemetry devices on large cetacean species. However, the development of comparable remote attachment methodologies for small cetaceans is still limited. Currently, satellite tag attachment for small cetaceans requires manual capture that increases the risk to the target animal, can be logistically challenging, and cost prohibitive. The goal of this project was to develop a novel tool to remotely attach single-pin satellite telemetry devices to the dorsal fin of individual small cetaceans. Three different spring-loaded designs and one pneumatic version of the remote attachment device were built in an iterative process to identify a successful deployment methodology. Ultimately, as a result of logistical challenges associated with a Category 5 hurricane, the COVID-19 pandemic, and engineering complexities related to dorsal fin morphology and small cetacean behavior, the objective of this project was not met. However, lessons learned from these attempts to develop this new sampling tool have applicability for future researchers in the successful completion of a safe and effective methodology for remote attachment of satellite tags to small cetacean dorsal fins.

Increased production of extracellular matrix is a necessary response to tissue damage and stress. In a normal healing process, the increase in extracellular matrix is transient. In some instances; however, the increase in extracellular matrix can persist as fibrosis, leading to deleterious alterations in organ structure, biomechanical properties, and function. Indeed, fibrosis is now appreciated to be an important cause of mortality and morbidity. Extensive research has illustrated that fibrosis can be slowed, arrested or even reversed; however, few drugs have been approved specifically for anti-fibrotic treatment. This is in part due to the complex pathways responsible for fibrogenesis and the undesirable side effects of drugs targeting these pathways. Natural products have been utilized for thousands of years as a major component of traditional medicine and currently account for almost one-third of drugs used clinically worldwide. A variety of plant-derived compounds have been demonstrated to have preventative or even reversal effects on fibrosis. This review will discuss the effects and the underlying mechanisms of some of the major plant-derived compounds that have been identified to impact fibrosis.

Orientation: South African automotive organisations require talented employees to compete both nationally and on a global scale, within the setting of Industry 4.0. Research purpose: This article was aimed at identifying talent management approaches for South African automotive organisations to ensure the availability of talent for Industry 4.0 talent demands. Motivation for this study: In general, South African organisations struggle with securing, developing and retaining talent, a challenge aggravated by accelerated technological breakthroughs accompanying Industry 4.0. Research approach/design and method: This article reports on the quantitative component of a combined method study conducted in South Africa’s automotive industry. Data were collected from operational and human resource management professionals in automotive organisations through convenience sampling. Main findings: A greater collaborative effort is required of key stakeholders associated with the automotive industry and within automotive organisations to address the issue of talent in a holistic and focused manner. Practical/managerial implications: The adoption of advanced technologies in the automotive industry necessitates the upskilling and reskilling of current employees, and a renewed focus on attracting talent specifically targeted for Industry 4.0 developments which require collaboration between government, automotive industry, and educational institutions. Contribution/value-add: The article emphasised a holistic approach to talent supply and management for South African automotive organisations in consideration of Industry 4.0, with implications for the government, educational institutions and the automotive industry.

Multiple techniques have been used for estimating age in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). The longest established technique is via counts of growth later groups (GLGs) in the longitudinal section of an extracted mandibular tooth. Previous studies to validate GLGs have primarily used younger dolphins (less than 16yrs old) due to the limited number of known age older animals. This study assessed the accuracy of age estimates for bottlenose dolphins using both GLG analysis and a newer technique, pectoral flipper radiography (PFR) for dolphins ranging from 0 to 58yrs, with a majority of samples (70%) over 16yrs. GLGs were assessed by two expert independent readers on tooth sections from 52 different dolphins (85% over 16yrs, maximum age 58yrs), and assessments of PFRs were performed by two experienced veterinarians on 37 dolphins (54% over 16yrs, maximum age 54yrs). Results demonstrated both techniques became less accurate in older dolphins, particularly those > 30yrs, with errors as large as 37yrs for GLG estimates. The root mean squared error (RMSE) for age estimation using GLGs for dolphins ≤15 years of age was 1.46yrs compared to 1.58yrs using PFRs demonstrating the accuracy of both techniques in this age bracket. For dolphins >30yrs, RMSE increased to 17yrs in GLG aging and 8.25yrs in PFR. Challenges in obtaining accurate age estimates in GLGs were primarily due to sectioning and staining difficulties in visualizing the newest GLG layers, in the very old animals. Complications in reading the layers included obtaining a good section, the presence of accessory layers, GLG compression, and tooth curvature or wear removing the neonatal line influencing aging biases. In pectoral flipper aging, the primary challenge was obtaining a true dorsoventral radiograph in a live dolphin during a health assessment, as well as the subjective assessment of scoring and reliance on degenerative changes accurately estimate age in geriatric dolphins. While access to the radiography equipment can be a limiting factor, the improved accuracy for age estimation in adult dolphins, the less invasive nature, and reduced processing time to results make pectoral radiography a preferred alternative technique for estimating age in live dolphins.

Many pressing conservation issues are complex problems caused by multiple social and environmental drivers; their resolution is aided by interdisciplinary teams of scientists, decision makers, and stakeholders working together. In these situations, how do we generate science to effectively guide conservation (resource management and policy) decisions? This paper describes elements of successful big-team science in conservation, as well as shortcomings and lessons learned, based on our work with the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) in North America. We summarize literature on effective science teams, extracting information about elements of success, effective implementation approaches, and barriers or pitfalls. We then describe recent and ongoing conservation science for the monarch butterfly in North America. We focus primarily on the activities of the Monarch Conservation Science Partnership–an international collaboration of interdisciplinary scientists, policy experts and natural resource managers spanning government, non-governmental and academic institutions—which developed science to inform imperilment status, recovery options, and monitoring strategies. We couch these science efforts in the adaptative management framework of Strategic Habitat Conservation, the business model for conservation employed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service to inform decision-making needs identified by stakeholders from Canada, the United States, and Mexico. We conclude with elements critical to effective big-team conservation science, discuss why science teams focused on applied conservation problems are unique relative to science teams focusing on traditional or theoretical research, and list benefits of big team science in conservation.

Abstract Migratory species often provide ecosystem service benefits to people in one country while receiving habitat support in other countries. The multinational cooperation that could help ensure continued provisioning of these benefits by migration may be informed by understanding the economic values people in different countries place on the benefits they derive from migratory wildlife. We conducted contingent valuation surveys to estimate the willingness of 3733 respondents from Canada, the United States and México to invest in conservation for two disparate migratory species, the northern pintail duck Anas acuta and the Mexican free‐tailed bat Tadarida brasiliensis mexicana. With zero‐inflated mixed‐effects negative binomial regression (explaining 87% of the variation in willingness to pay for conservation), we found that respondents from each nation, after controlling for both household income and per capita national Gross Domestic Product, were willing to invest in conservation in other countries. This willingness to pay for conservation, even when respondents knew that funds would be used to support benefits accruing primarily in other countries, demonstrates the potential for support of multinational conservation policies and programmes that direct resources to locations where the most critical habitat is located, rather than where the funding is generated. These findings could be used to support the development or expansion of new and existing international conservation programmes for migratory species. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid analgesic that is approved medically to treat acute and chronic pain. There is a high potential for overdose-induced organ toxicities, including liver toxicity, and this might be due to the increase of recreational use of opioids. Several preclinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of beta-lactams in modulating the expression of glutamate transporter-1 (GLT-1) in different body organs, including the liver. The upregulation of GLT-1 by beta-lactams is associated with the attenuation of hyperglutamatergic state, which is a characteristic feature of opioid use disorders. A novel experimental beta-lactam compound with no antimicrobial properties, MC-100093, has been developed to attenuate dysregulation of glutamate transport, in part by normalizing GLT-1 expression. A previous study showed that MC-100093 modulated hepatic GLT-1 expression with subsequent attenuation of alcohol-increased fat droplet content in the liver. In this study, we investigated the effects of fentanyl overdose on liver metabolites, and determined the effects of MC-100093 and ceftriaxone in the liver of a fentanyl overdose mouse model. Liver samples from control, fentanyl overdose, and fentanyl overdose ceftriaxone- or MC-100093-treated mice were analyzed for metabolomics using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Heatmap analysis revealed that both MC-100093 and ceftriaxone attenuated the effects of fentanyl overdose on several metabolites, and MC-100093 showed superior effects. Statistical analysis showed that MC-100093 reversed the effects of fentanyl overdose in some metabolites. Moreover, enrichment analysis revealed that the altered metabolites were strongly linked to the glucose-alanine cycle, the Warburg effect, gluconeogenesis, glutamate metabolism, lactose degradation, and ketone body metabolism. The changes in liver metabolites induced by fentanyl overdose were associated with liver inflammation, an effect attenuated with ceftriaxone pre-treatments. Ceftriaxone normalized fentanyl-overdose-induced changes in liver interleukin-6 and cytochrome CYP3A11 (mouse homolog of human CYP3A4) expression. Our data indicate that fentanyl overdose impaired liver metabolites, and MC-100093 restored certain metabolites.

Abstract Biodiversity conservation efforts have been criticized for generating inequitable socio‐economic outcomes. These equity challenges are largely analyzed as place‐based problems affecting local communities directly impacted by conservation programs. The conservation of migratory species extends this problem geographically since people in one place may benefit while those in another bear the costs of conservation. The spatial subsidies approach offers an effective tool for analyzing such relationships between places connected by migratory species. Designed to quantify ecosystem services provided and received in specific locations across a migratory species’ range—and the disparities between them—the spatial subsidies approach highlights three axes of inequity: between indigenous and settler colonial societies, between urban and rural populations, and between the Global North and Global South. Recognizing these relationships is critical to achieving two mutually reinforcing policy goals: avoiding inequitable conservation outcomes in efforts to conserve migratory species, and ensuring effective long‐term conservation of migratory species. In demonstrating how the spatial subsidies approach enables the identification and quantification of inequities involving three migratory species (northern pintail ducks, monarch butterflies, and Mexican free‐tailed bats), we argue that a spatial subsidies approach could apply to migratory species conservation efforts worldwide under the context of “payments for ecosystem services.”

Abstract White‐nose syndrome has been decimating populations of several bat species since its first occurrence in the Northeastern United States in the winter 2006–2007. The spread of the disease has been monitored across the continent through the collaboration of many organizations. Inferring the rate of spread of the disease and predicting its arrival at new locations is critical when assessing the current and predicting the future status and trends of bat species. We developed a model of disease spread that simultaneously achieves high‐predictive performance, computational efficiency, and interpretability. We modeled white‐nose syndrome spread using Gaussian process variations to infer the spread rate of the disease front, identify areas of anomalous time of arrival, and provide future forecasts of the expected time of arrival throughout North America. Cross‐validation of model predictive performance identified a stationary Gaussian process without an additional residual error process as the best‐supported model. Results indicated that white‐nose syndrome is likely to spread throughout the entire continental United States by 2030. These annually updatable model predictions will be useful in determining the horizon over which disease management actions must take place as well as in status and trend assessments of disease‐affected bats.

In contrast to traditional professional sports, there are few standardized metrics in professional esports (competitive multiplayer video games) for assessing a player's skill and ability. We assessed the performance of professional-level players in Aim LabTM, a first-person shooter training and assessment game, with two target-shooting tasks. These tasks differed primarily in target size: the task with large targets provided an incentive to be fast but imprecise and the task with large targets provided an incentive to be precise but slow. Each player's motor acuity was measured by characterizing the speed-accuracy trade-off in shot behavior: shot time (elapsed time for a player to shoot at a target) and shot spatial error (distance from center of a target). We also characterized the fine-grained kinematics of players' mouse movements. Our findings demonstrate that: 1) movement kinematics depended on task demands; 2) individual differences in motor acuity were significantly correlated with kinematics; and 3) performance, combined across the two target sizes, was poorly characterized by Fitts Law. Our approach to measuring motor acuity has widespread applications not only in esports assessment and training, but also in basic (motor psychophysics) and clinical (gamified rehabilitation) research.

Background: Risk-factor identification related to chronic opioid use after surgery may facilitate interventions mitigating postoperative opioid consumption. We evaluated the relationship between opioid use preceding total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and chronic use postoperatively, and the risk of chronic opioid use after total joint arthroplasty. Methods: All primary THAs and TKAs performed during a 6-month period were identified. Opioid prescription and utilization data (in oxycodone equivalents) were determined via survey and electronic records. Relationship between preoperative opioid use and continued use >90 days after surgery was assessed via Chi-square, with significance set at P < .05. Results: A total of 415 patients met inclusion criteria (240 THAs and 175 TKAs). Of the 240 THAs, 199 (82.9%) patients and of the 175 TKAs, 144 (82.3%) patients agreed to participate. Forty-three of 199 (21.6%) THA patients and 22 of 144 (15.3%) TKA patients used opioids within 30 days preoperatively. Nine of 199 (4.5%) THA and 10 of 144 (6.9%) TKA patients had continued use of opioids for >90 days postoperatively. Preoperative opioid consumption was significantly associated with chronic use postoperatively for THA (P = .011) and TKA (P = .024). Five of 43 (11.6%) THA and 4 of 22 (18.2%) TKA patients with preoperative opioid use had continued use for >90 days postoperatively. For opioid naïve patients, 2.6% (4/156) of THA and 4.9% (6/122) of TKA patients had chronic use postoperatively. Conclusions: Preoperative opioid use was associated with nearly 5-fold and 4-fold increase in percentage of patients with chronic opioid use after THA and TKA, respectively. Surgeons should counsel patients regarding this risk and consider strategies to eliminate preoperative opioid use.

Background: There is focus on the direct anterior approach (DAA) for total hip arthroplasty because of perceived postoperative functional improvement. We compared baseline, short-term, and long-term outcomes between the DAA and the posterior approach focusing on baseline function. Material and methods: Multivariate linear and logistic regression models were used to analyze prospective data on 1457 total hip arthroplasties comparing baseline characteristics, operative time, 90-day reoperation, length of stay (LOS), extended LOS (>3 days), and facility discharge. The Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System-Global Health (PROMIS-10) was used to determine physical component score (PCS) and mental component score (MCS), with clinically significant improvement defined as >5 points. Adjusters included age, sex, race/ethnicity, year, Charlson Comorbidity Index, body mass index, alcohol, and tobacco use. Results: DAA patients had higher preoperative MCS (DAA 50.4 vs posterior approach 47.4, P < .001), PCS (40.7 vs 38.5, P < .001), and postoperative PCS scores (48.9 vs 46.7, P < .001). There was no difference in mean PCS improvement (8.1 vs 8.2; P = .798) or clinically significant PCS change (P = .963). DAA was associated with shorter LOS by 0.49 days (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.32-0.65, P < .001), lower odds of extended LOS (odds ratio = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.21-0.50, P < .001), and lower odds of facility discharge (odds ratio = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.37-0.79, P < .001). No difference in operative time (86 vs 87 minutes; P = .812) or 90-day reoperations (1 vs 1%; P = .347) was observed. Conclusion: DAA patients presented with higher preoperative PCS and MCS scores, yet both groups experienced significant improvement. DAA was associated with decreased LOS and lower odds of extended LOS and facility discharge. There was no difference in operative time or reoperation.

Recovering species are not returning to the same environments or communities from which they disappeared. Conservation researchers and practitioners are thus faced with additional challenges in ensuring species resilience in these rapidly changing ecosystems. Assessing the resilience of species in these novel systems can still be guided by species’ ecology, including knowledge of their population size, life history traits, and behavioral adaptations, as well as the type, strength, and number of ways that they interact with other species in the community. We summarized broad trends of Common Loons (Gavia immer) breeding at Voyageurs National Park from 1973 to 2009, and evaluated the effects of increased risk from recovering Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) on chick survival from 2004 to 2006. Adult Common Loons appear to have increased over time. Using Bayesian survival models that accounted for imperfect detection of unmarked individuals, we determined that chick survival of Common Loons was high from year to year and was unrelated to predation risk from Bald Eagles because chicks in territories closer to active nests did not experience greater mortality than those farther away. We suggest that Common Loon chicks were unaffected by the recovery of this top predator during the three years of sampling. Previous research indicates that Bald Eagles and other predators are an important source of egg losses, but Common Loons can compensate by re-nesting. Despite current uncertainties from anthropogenic threats, knowledge of a species’ ecology remains instrumental in determining its resilience during recovery.

Tirbanibulin (KX2-391, KX-01), a dual non-ATP (substrate site) Src kinase and tubulin-polymerization inhibitor, demonstrated a universal anti-cancer activity for variety of cancer types. The notion that KX2-391 is a highly selective Src kinase inhibitor have been challenged by recent reports on the activities of this drug against FLT3-ITD mutations in some leukemic cell lines. Therefore, we hypothesized that analogues of KX2-391 may inhibit oncogenic kinases other than Src. A set of 4-aroylaminophenyl-N-benzylacetamides were synthesized and found to be more active against leukemia cell lines compared to solid tumor cell lines. N-(4-(2-(benzylamino)-2-oxoethyl)phenyl)-4-chlorobenzamide (4e) exhibited activities at IC50 0.96 µM, 1.62 µM, 1.90 µM and 4.23 µM against NB4, HL60, MV4-11 and K562 leukemia cell lines, respectively. We found that underlying mechanisms of 4e did not include tubulin polymerization or Src inhibition. Such results interestingly suggested that scaffold-hopping of KX2-391 may change the two main underlying cytotoxic mechanisms (Src and tubulin). Kinase profiling using two methods revealed that 4e significantly reduces the activities of some other potent oncogenic kinases like the MAPK member ERK1/2 (>99%) and it also greatly upregulates the pro-apoptotic c-Jun kinase (84%). This research also underscores the importance of thorough investigation of total kinase activities as part of the structure-activity relationship studies.

Background: We evaluate whether patient exposures such as tobacco use are associated with high systemic or local in vivo oxidative state and with increased in vivo polyethylene oxidation. Methods: We performed a case-control study which evaluated clinical factors associated with high systemic or local in vivo oxidative state among patients whose implants have been identified as demonstrating either extreme or minimal oxidation by our implant retrieval laboratory. Analysis of more than 2500 tibial inserts from explanted total knee arthroplasty demonstrated a wide spectrum of polyethylene oxidation. Components from some patients exhibited extremely high oxidation rates (super-oxidizers), and components from other patients demonstrated negligible oxidation (nonoxidizers). Patients’ clinical data were retrospectively investigated from a prospectively collected institutional database. Results: Eighteen patients met criteria as either super-oxidizers (9) or nonoxidizers (9). Average time in vivo was 6.6 (±4.4) years. Reasons for removal were aseptic loosening (10), instability (3), infection (2), component malposition (1), massive osteolysis (1), and other (1). Chi-square for categorical predictors demonstrated that nonoxidizer patients were significantly more likely to be current smokers than super-oxidizers (6 vs 0, P = .012). No other free radical–associated variables were significantly different across oxidation groups. Conclusion: There was a significant association between extremely low ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene oxidation and current smoking.

Tall fescue (Schedonorus arundinaceous (Schreb.) Dumort. nom. cons. Lolium arundinaceum (Schreb.) Darbysh.) toxicosis results from the consumption of alkaloids released by wild-type endophytes (Epichloe coenophiala) that live in symbiosis with the plant. Alkaloid consumption causes significant production and reproductive losses which cost the U.S. beef industry approximately $2 billion every year. Incorporating species that contain condensed tannins (CTs) into forage systems may be an effective strategy to reduce the effects of fescue toxicosis in livestock. It has been hypothesized that stable complexes formed between CTs and toxic alkaloids could help reduce their absorption through the gastrointestinal epithelia, thus reducing their toxic effects. However, it is not yet clear whether CTs are effective in reducing the effects of fescue toxicosis in grazing systems. A comprehensive literature search was carried out using Google Scholar to identify studies relevant to the research question, from which the cited articles were selected. This review covers the value and issues of tall fescue employed as useful forage, summarizes the impact endophyte-infected tall fescue can have on cattle, and sets out the current management strategies implemented to minimize fescue toxicosis. The review continues with a brief summary of tannin structure and the well-documented benefits that CT-containing forages can contribute to the productivity and sustainability of ruminant agriculture. Finally, a summary of the potential forage sources, mechanisms, and benefits of CTs in reducing the negative post-ingestion effects of fescue alkaloids in livestock is provided.

Introduction More than 1 million elective total hip and knee replacements are performed annually in the USA with 2% risk of clinical pulmonary embolism (PE), 0.1%–0.5% fatal PE, and over 1000 deaths. Antithrombotic prophylaxis is standard of care but evidence is limited and conflicting. We will compare effectiveness of three commonly used chemoprophylaxis agents to prevent all-cause mortality (ACM) and clinical venous thromboembolism (VTE) while avoiding bleeding complications.Methods and analysis Pulmonary Embolism Prevention after HiP and KneE Replacement is a large randomised pragmatic comparative effectiveness trial with non-inferiority design and target enrolment of 20 000 patients comparing aspirin (81 mg two times a day), low-intensity warfarin (INR (International Normalized Ratio) target 1.7–2.2) and rivaroxaban (10 mg/day). The primary effectiveness outcome is aggregate of VTE and ACM, primary safety outcome is clinical bleeding complications, and patient-reported outcomes are determined at 1, 3 and 6 months. Primary data analysis is per protocol, as preferred for non-inferiority trials, with secondary analyses adherent to intention-to-treat principles. All non-fatal outcomes are captured from patient and clinical reports with independent blinded adjudication. Study design and oversight are by a multidisciplinary stakeholder team including a 10-patient advisory board.Ethics and dissemination The Institutional Review Board of the Medical University of South Carolina provides central regulatory oversight. Patients aged 21 or older undergoing primary or revision hip or knee replacement are block randomised by site and procedure; those on chronic anticoagulation are excluded. Recruitment commenced at 30 North American centres in December 2016. Enrolment currently exceeds 13 500 patients, representing 33% of those eligible at participating sites, and is projected to conclude in July 2024; COVID-19 may force an extension. Results will inform antithrombotic choice by patients and other stakeholders for various risk cohorts, and will be disseminated through academic publications, meeting presentations and communications to advocacy groups and patient participants.Trial registration NCT02810704.

Abstract We developed a continental energetics‐based model of daily mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) movement during the non‐breeding period (September to May) to predict year‐specific migration and overwinter occurrence. The model approximates movements and stopovers as functions of metabolism and weather, in terms of temperature and frozen precipitation (i.e., snow). The model is a Markov process operating at the population level and is parameterized through a review of literature. We applied the model to 62 years of daily weather data for the non‐breeding period. The average proportion of available habitat decreased as weather severity increased, with mortality decreasing as the proportion of available habitat increased. The most commonly used locations during the course of the non‐breeding period were generally consistent across years, with the most inter‐annual variation present in the overwintering area. Our model revealed that the distribution of mallards on the landscape changed more dramatically when the variation in daily available habitat was greater. The main routes for avian migration in North America were predicted by our simulations: the Atlantic, Mississippi, Central, and Pacific flyways. Our model predicted an average of 77.4% survivorship for the non‐breeding period across all years (range = 76.4%–78.4%), with lowest survivorship during autumn (90.5 ± 1.4%), intermediate survivorship in winter (91.8 ± 0.7%), and greatest survivorship in spring (93.6 ± 1.1%). We provide the parameters necessary for exploration within and among other taxa to leverage the generalizability of this migration model to a broader expanse of bird species, and across a range of climate change and land use/land cover change scenarios.

Grazing ruminants contribute to global climate change through enteric methane and nitrous oxide emissions. However, animal consumption of the plant polyphenolics, proanthocyanidins, or condensed tannins (CTs) can decrease both methane emissions and urine nitrogen levels, leading to reduced nitrous oxide emissions, and concomitantly increase animal health and production. CTs are largely absent in the foliage of important temperate pasture legumes, such as white clover (Trifolium repens), but found in flowers and seed coats. Attempts at enhancing levels of CT expression in white clover leaves by mutagenesis and breeding have not been successful. However, the transformation of white clover with the TaMYB14-1 transcription factor from Trifolium arvense has resulted in the production of CTs in leaves up to 1.2% of dry matter (DM). In this study, two generations of breeding elevated foliar CTs to >2% of DM. The CTs consisted predominantly of prodelphinidins (PD, 75–93%) and procyanidins (PC, 17–25%) and had a mean degree of polymerization (mDP) of approximately 10 flavan-3-ol subunits. In vitro studies showed that foliar CTs were bound to bovine serum albumin and white clover proteins at pH 6.5 and were released at pH 2.-2.5. Using rumen in vitro assays, white clover leaves containing soluble CTs of 1.6–2.4% of DM significantly reduced methane production by 19% (p ≤0.01) and ammonia production by 60% (p ≤ 0.01) relative to non-transformed wild type (WT) controls after 6 h of incubation. These results provide valuable information for further studies using CT expressing white clover leaves for bloat prevention and reduced greenhouse gas emissions in vivo.

Motor learning occurs over long periods of practice during which motor acuity, the ability to execute actions more accurately, precisely, and in less time, improves. Laboratory-based studies of motor learning are typically limited to a small number of participants and a time frame of minutes to several hours per participant. There is a need to assess the generalizability of theories and findings from lab-based motor learning studies on larger samples and time scales. In addition, laboratory-based studies of motor learning use relatively simple motor tasks which participants are unlikely to be intrinsically motivated to learn, limiting the interpretation of their findings in more ecologically valid settings (“in the wild”). We studied the acquisition and longitudinal refinement of a complex sensorimotor skill embodied in a first-person shooter video game scenario, with a large sample size (N = 7174, 682,564 repeats of the 60 s game) over a period of months. Participants voluntarily practiced the gaming scenario for up to several hours per day up to 100 days. We found improvement in performance accuracy (quantified as hit rate) was modest over time but motor acuity (quantified as hits per second) improved considerably, with 40–60% retention from 1 day to the next. We observed steady improvements in motor acuity across multiple days of video game practice, unlike most motor learning tasks studied in the lab that hit a performance ceiling rather quickly. Learning rate was a non-linear function of baseline performance level, amount of daily practice, and to a lesser extent, number of days between practice sessions. In addition, we found that the benefit of additional practice on any given day was non-monotonic; the greatest improvements in motor acuity were evident with about an hour of practice and 90% of the learning benefit was achieved by practicing 30 min per day. Taken together, these results provide a proof-of-concept in studying motor skill acquisition outside the confines of the traditional laboratory, in the presence of unmeasured confounds, and provide new insights into how a complex motor skill is acquired in an ecologically valid setting and refined across much longer time scales than typically explored.

Total knee arthroplasty is highly successful, in part due to range of motion (RoM) recovery. This is typically estimated goniometrically/visually by physical therapists (PTs) in the clinic, which is imprecise. Accordingly, a validated inertial measurement unit (IMU) method for capturing knee RoM was deployed assessing postoperative RoM both in and outside of the clinical setting. The study's objectives were to evaluate the feasibility of continuously capturing knee RoM pre-/post-op via IMUs, dividing data into PT/non-PT portions of each day, and comparing PT/non-PT metrics. We hypothesized IMU-based clinical knee RoM would differ from IMU-based knee RoM captured outside clinical settings. 10 patients (3 ​M, 69 ​± ​13 years) completed informed consent documents following ethics board approval. A validated IMU method captured long duration (8–12 ​h/day, ~50 days) knee RoM pre-/post-op. Post-op metrics were subdivided (PT versus non-PT). Clinical RoM and patient reported outcome measures were also captured. Compliance and clinical disruption were evaluated. ANOVA compared post-op PT and non-PT means and change scores. Maximum flexion during PT was less than outside PT. PT stance/swing RoM and activity level were greater than outside PT. No temporal variable differences were found PT versus non-PT. IMU RoM measurements capture richer information than clinical measures. Maximum PT flexion was likely less than non-PT due to the exercises completed (i.e. high passive RoM vs. low RoM gait). PT gait flexion likely exceed non-PT because of ‘white coat effects’ wherein patients are closely monitored clinically. This implies data captured clinically represents optimum performance whereas data captured non-clinically represents realistic performance.

This study aimed to determine the concentration and composition of condensed tannins (CT) in different tissues of purple prairie clover (PPC; Dalea purpurea Vent.) at different maturities and to determine their protein-precipitating capacity. The compositions of CT were elucidated after thiolysis with benzyl mercaptan followed by high-performance liquid-chromatography (HPLC) and 1H–13C heteronuclear single quantum coherence (HSQC) NMR spectroscopy. The results indicated that PPC flowering heads contained the highest CT concentration. Purple prairie clover CT consisted mainly of epicatechin (EC) and epigallocatechin (EGC) subunits. CT in the leaves were composed of more EC and less EGC than CT in stems and flowering heads at both the early flowering (EF) and late flowering (LF) head stages. The mean degree of polymerization was the highest for CT in stems and increased with maturity. CT isolated from PPC leaves at the early flowering head stage exhibited the greatest biological activity in terms of protein precipitation. Overall, the CT in PPC were predominantly procyanidins and the concentration and composition varied among the plant tissues and with maturity.

Abstract A simulation‐based power analysis can be used to estimate the sample sizes needed for a successful monitoring program, but requires technical expertise and sometimes extensive computing resources. We developed a web‐based lookup app, called TrendPowerTool (https://www.usgs.gov/apps/TrendPowerTool/), to provide guidance for ecological monitoring programs when resources are not available for a simulation‐based power analysis. TrendPowerTool is implemented through the shiny package in R, but is accessible through a webpage without the need for users to install any software. By drawing on results of 1.4 million scenarios that we simulated on a supercomputer, TrendPowerTool quickly and easily provides an estimate of the statistical power to detect a population trend of a particular magnitude with a planned monitoring program, based on user‐specified parameters for the monitoring design and population of interest. TrendPowerTool provides a user‐friendly interface that retrieves results instantaneously, facilitating the important step of conducting a power analysis when designing monitoring programs.

In March 2019, 45 scientists and software engineers from around the world converged at the University of California, Santa Cruz for the first pangenomics codeathon. The purpose of the meeting was to propose technical specifications and standards for a usable human pangenome as well as to build relevant tools for genome graph infrastructures. During the meeting, the group held several intense and productive discussions covering a diverse set of topics, including advantages of graph genomes over a linear reference representation, design of new methods that can leverage graph-based data structures, and novel visualization and annotation approaches for pangenomes. Additionally, the participants self-organized themselves into teams that worked intensely over a three-day period to build a set of pipelines and tools for specific pangenomic applications. A summary of the questions raised and the tools developed are reported in this manuscript.

Abstract A central challenge in applied ecology is understanding the effect of anthropogenic fatalities on wildlife populations and predicting which populations may be particularly vulnerable and in greatest need of management attention. We used three approaches to investigate the potential effects of fatalities from collisions with wind turbines on 14 raptor species for both current (106 GW) and anticipated future (241 GW) levels of installed wind energy capacity in the United States. Our goals were to identify species at relatively high vs low risk of experiencing population declines from turbine collisions and to also compare results generated from these approaches. Two of the approaches used a calculated turbine‐caused mortality rate to decrement population growth, where population trends were derived either from the North American Breeding Bird Survey or from a matrix model parameterized from literature‐derived demographic values. The third approach was potential biological removal, which estimates the number of fatalities that allow a population to reach and maintain its optimal sustainable population set by management objectives. Different results among the methods reveal substantial gaps in knowledge and uncertainty in both demographic parameters and species‐specific estimates of fatalities from wind turbines. Our results suggest that, of the 14 species studied, those with relatively higher potential of population‐level impacts from wind turbine collisions included barn owl, ferruginous hawk, golden eagle, American kestrel, and red‐tailed hawk. Burrowing owl, Cooper’s hawk, great horned owl, northern harrier, turkey vulture, and osprey had a relatively lower potential for population impacts, and results were not easily interpretable for merlin, prairie falcon, and Swainson’s hawk. Projections of current levels of fatalities to future wind energy scenarios at 241 GW of installed capacity suggest some species could experience population declines because of turbine collisions. Populations of those species may benefit from research to identify tools to prevent or reduce raptor collisions with wind turbines.

Background Long‐term air pollution exposure is a significant risk factor for inpatient hospital admissions in the general population. However, we lack information on whether long‐term air pollution exposure is a risk factor for hospital readmissions, particularly in individuals with elevated readmission rates. Methods and Results We determined the number of readmissions and total hospital visits (outpatient visits+emergency room visits+inpatient admissions) for 20 920 individuals with heart failure. We used quasi‐Poisson regression models to associate annual average fine particulate matter at the date of heart failure diagnosis with the number of hospital visits and 30‐day readmissions. We used inverse probability weights to balance the distribution of confounders and adjust for the competing risk of death. Models were adjusted for age, race, sex, smoking status, urbanicity, year of diagnosis, short‐term fine particulate matter exposure, comorbid disease, and socioeconomic status. A 1‐µg/m3 increase in fine particulate matter was associated with a 9.31% increase (95% CI, 7.85%–10.8%) in total hospital visits, a 4.35% increase (95% CI, 1.12%–7.68%) in inpatient admissions, and a 14.2% increase (95% CI, 8.41%–20.2%) in 30‐day readmissions. Associations were robust to different modeling approaches. Conclusions These results highlight the potential for air pollution to play a role in hospital use, particularly hospital visits and readmissions. Given the elevated frequency of hospitalizations and readmissions among patients with heart failure, these results also represent an important insight into modifiable environmental risk factors that may improve outcomes and reduce hospital use among patients with heart failure.

This study analyzes the impact of foreign aid on foreign direct investment (FDI) in Latin America. Using the Feasible Generalized Least Squares panel estimation methodology with 1996-2017 panel data from 19 countries, this study finds that the impact of foreign aid on FDI in Latin America is insignificant. However, when total aid is disaggregated into bilateral aid and multilateral aid, it is found that multilateral aid significantly boosts FDI, but bilateral aid does not. These results lend credence to the hypothesis that multilateral aid (which is likely to be aligned with the non-political developmental orientation of the multilateral donor organizations) is channeled into legitimate development projects that raise the productivity of capital, which helps attract more FDI to the recipient countries. However, bilateral aid (which is often dictated by the geo-political strategic self-interests of the donor countries) can get funneled into non-productive projects. The study also finds that the other significant drivers of FDI in the sample countries include economic freedom, quality of governance, market size, rate of return, infrastructure, and human capital. These results appear robust across several model specifications.Keywords: Foreign aid, foreign direct investment, Latin AmericaJEL Classifications: F35, F21DOI: https://doi.org/10.32479/ijefi.7520

Background: Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, particularly for cardiovascular disease. The association between long-term exposure to PM2.5 and measures of lipoprotein subfractions remains unclear. Therefore, we examined associations between long-term PM2.5 exposure and traditional and novel lipoprotein measures in a cardiac catheterization cohort in North Carolina. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 6587 patients who had visited Duke University for a cardiac catheterization between 2001 and 2010 and resided in North Carolina. We used estimates of daily PM2.5 concentrations on a 1 km-grid based on satellite measurements. PM2.5 predictions were matched to the address of each patient and averaged for the year prior to catheterization date. Serum lipids included HDL, LDL, and triglyceride-rich particle, and apolipoprotein B concentrations (HDL-P, LDL-P, TRL-P, and apoB, respectively). Linear and quantile regression models were used to estimate change in lipoprotein levels with each μg/m3 increase in annual average PM2.5. Models were adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, history of smoking, area-level education, urban/rural status, body mass index, and diabetes. Results: For a 1-μg/m3 increment in PM2.5 exposure, we observed increases in total and small LDL-P, LDL-C, TRL-P, apoB, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. The percent change from the mean outcome level was 2.00% (95% CI: 1.38%, 2.64%) for total LDL-P and 2.25% (95% CI: 1.43%, 3.06%) for small LDL-P. Conclusion: Among this sample of cardiac catheterization patients residing in North Carolina, long-term PM2.5 exposure was associated with increases in several lipoprotein concentrations. This abstract does not necessarily reflect U.S. EPA policy. Keywords: Fine particulate matter, Lipids, Cardiovascular disease, Air pollution

Functionalization of a carbon electrode through the electrochemical reduction of ruthenium tris-bipyridine diazonium salts prepared in situ allows determination of the nature of the anions often present in commonly used lithium and sodium battery electrolyte (i.e. PF6− and ClO4−) and also the presence of fluoride anions arising from PF6− degradation. Surprisingly, although these “battery” anions are supposed to exhibit poor coordination ability, their interaction with the electrogenerated RuIII complex is sufficiently strong and reversible to selectively discriminate between the anions ClO4− and PF6− through the observed shift in E°. This study examined the impact of any fluoride present and found a linear relationship between the current response and the F− concentration. This has been applied to ageing LP30 battery electrolyte, confirming the low solubility of LiF in battery electrolyte. This overall behavior could help in the analysis of electrolytes from the recycling sector.