Ecological and evolutionary characteristics of anthropogenic roosting ability in bats of the world.

Although the global conversion of wildlife habitat to built environments often has negative impacts on biodiversity, some wildlife species have the ability to cope by living in human-made structures. However, the determinants of this adaptation on a global scale are not well understood and may signify species with unique conservation needs at the human-wildlife interface. Here, we identify the trait profile associated with anthropogenic roosting in bats globally and characterize the evolution of this phenotype using an original dataset of roosting behavior developed across 1,279 extant species.

Disproportionate impacts of COVID-19 in a large US city.

COVID-19 has disproportionately impacted individuals depending on where they live and work, and based on their race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Studies have documented catastrophic disparities at critical points throughout the pandemic, but have not yet systematically tracked their severity through time. Using anonymized hospitalization data from March 11, 2020 to June 1, 2021 and fine-grain infection hospitalization rates, we estimate the time-varying burden of COVID-19 by age group and ZIP code in Austin, Texas.

Cat Scratch Disease: 9 Years of Experience at a Pediatric Center.

Background: A more complete understanding of the epidemiology, risk factors, and clinical features of cat scratch disease (CSD) in children could help guide patient care.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of children presenting to a tertiary pediatric hospital system in Atlanta, Georgia between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2018 who had serology, polymerase chain reaction, and/or cytopathological results consistent with a infection. We also retrospectively reviewed veterinary diagnostic results performed at the University of Georgia from 2018 to 2020 to ascertain the burden of bartonellosis in companion animals within the state.