bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Converting forests to agriculture decreases body size of Carabid assemblages in Zambia
Authors: Chungu Donald , Stadler Jutta , Brandl Roland
Published: August 2017

Body size affects both intraspecific and interspecific competition. Land‐use affects such interactions within assemblages of species and should, therefore, also change the size structure of these assemblages. In particular one expects a decrease of mean body size with disturbances. We compared interspecific size structure of carabid assemblages between agricultural fields (frequent disturbances) and forests in Zambia using pitfall traps operated across 1 year. Mean body length across species co‐occurring within sites in agricultural fields was significantly smaller than in natural forests. Furthermore, in both habitats, we found evidence for ecological clustering in respect to body size, although in forests, body size differences between adjacent‐sized species tended to be overdispersed. We also found a positive relationship between log10‐transformed body length and log10‐transformed activity abundance in forests, suggesting competitive asymmetries between large and small species. Overall, these observations suggest that the size structure of carabid assemblages depends on disturbances as well as competitive interactions. Such interactions seem to be, however, of lower importance within agricultural fields.
Comparing the accuracy of maternal, clinical, and ultrasound estimations to predict birthweight: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Goto Eita
Published: August 2017

Introduction

Accurate prediction of birthweight prior to delivery is necessary to establish periconceptional strategies to reduce the rates of adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study was performed to determine whether maternal, clinical, or ultrasound estimation provides the best predictor of birthweight.

Material and methods

Meta‐analysis was performed to summarize the relative ratios of the rate of one of maternal, clinical, and ultrasound estimation within 10% of actual birthweight to that of each of the others within the same range and the difference in correlation coefficient of actual birthweight between clinical and ultrasound estimations. Study quality was assessed with regard to the representativeness of participants, verification bias, and review bias. Publication bias was assessed using Egger's test.

Results

Thirty‐seven relatively good quality studies were included in the analysis. There was no significant difference in the rates of estimates within 10% of actual birthweight between clinical and maternal estimations (n = 8 and p = 0.491) or between ultrasound and maternal estimations (n = 6 and p = 0.568), or in the correlation coefficient of actual birthweight with ultrasound estimation compared with clinical estimation (n = 5 and p = 0.621). However, the rate of ultrasound estimations within 10% of actual birthweight was significantly higher than that of clinical estimations (n = 18 and p = 0.033). The data showed no publication bias (p = 0.058–0.854).

Conclusions

Ultrasound estimation may be the best predictor of birthweight.
Changes in medical management and colectomy rates: a population‐based cohort study on the epidemiology and natural history of ulcerative colitis in Örebro, Sweden, 1963‐2010
Authors: Eriksson C. , Cao Y. , Rundquist S. , Zhulina Y. , Henriksson I. , Montgomery S. , Halfvarson J.
Published: August 2017

Background

Whether the epidemiology of ulcerative colitis (UC) has changed during recent decades is partly unknown.

Aim

To depict temporal trends in the epidemiology and medical treatment of UC as well as the long‐term risk of progression in disease extent and colectomy, during 1963‐2010.

Methods

Patients were identified by evaluation of all medical records in the archive of the Colitis Clinic, Örebro University Hospital. Comparisons were made between three time periods, 1963‐1975, 1976‐1990 and 1991‐2005.

Results

The annual age‐standardised incidence increased from 3.5 to 18.5 per 100 000 during the study period (P < .01). Correspondingly, the prevalence increased from 44 to 474 per 100 000 between 1965 and 2010. A higher proportion of males than females had extensive colitis at diagnosis (odds ratio: 1.55; 95% CI 1.17‐2.05; P < .01). The risk for progression in disease extent was 34.5% and 18.5% at 10 years, for patients with proctitis and left‐sided colitis, respectively (P < .01). The use of 5‐aminosalicylates, within 10 years, rise from 79% to 92% between 1963‐1975 and 1976‐1990 (P < .01). Thiopurine use increased from 7% in 1976‐1990 to 34% during 1991‐2005 (P < .01). The colectomy rate at 10 years was 13.5% (95% CI 11.1%‐15.8%), and the risk was lower among patients diagnosed in 1991‐2005 compared to 1963‐1975 (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.61; 95% CI 0.39‐0.94; P = .02).

Conclusion

The incidence and prevalence of UC increased over time, and the observed prevalence in 2010 is among the highest reported. In parallel, a decrease in colectomy rates was observed during the most recent decades, potentially reflecting improved medical treatment.
Non‐invasive assessment of culture media from goat cloned embryos associated with subjective morphology by gas chromatography – mass spectroscopy‐based metabolomic analysis
Authors: Zhang Yan‐Li , Zhang Guo‐Min , Jia Ruo‐Xin , Wan Yong‐Jie , Yang Hua , Sun Ling‐Wei , Han Le , Wang Feng
Published: August 2017

Pre‐implantation embryo metabolism demonstrates distinctive characteristics associated with the development potential of embryos. We aim to determine if metabolic differences correlate with embryo morphology. In this study, gas chromatography – mass spectroscopy (GC‐MS)‐based metabolomics was used to assess the culture media of goat cloned embryos collected from high‐quality (HQ) and low‐quality (LQ) groups based on morphology. Expression levels of amino acid transport genes were further examined by quantitative real‐time PCR. Results showed that the HQ group presented higher percentages of blastocysts compared with the LQ counterparts (P < 0.05). Metabolic differences were also present between HQ and LQ groups. The culture media of the HQ group showed lower levels of valin, lysine, glutamine, mannose and acetol, and higher levels of glucose, phytosphingosine and phosphate than those of the LQ group. Additionally, expression levels of amino acid transport genes SLC1A5 and SLC3A2 were significantly lower in the HQ group than the LQ group (P < 0.05, respectively). To our knowledge, this is the first report which uses GC‐MS to detect metabolic differences in goat cloned embryo culture media. The biochemical profiles may help to select the most in vitro viable embryos.
Level‐2 perspectives computed quickly and spontaneously: Evidence from eight‐ to 9.5‐year‐old children
Authors: Elekes Fruzsina , Varga Máté , Király Ildikó
Published: August 2017

It has been widely assumed that computing how a scene looks from another perspective (level‐2 perspective taking, PT) is an effortful process, as opposed to the automatic capacity of tracking visual access to objects (level‐1 PT). Recently, adults have been found to compute both forms of visual perspectives in a quick but context‐sensitive way, indicating that the two functions share more features than previously assumed. However, the developmental literature still shows the dissociation between automatic level‐1 and effortful level‐2 PT. In the current paper, we report an experiment showing that in a minimally social situation, participating in a number verification task with an adult confederate, eight‐ to 9.5‐year‐old children demonstrate similar online level‐2 PT capacities as adults. Future studies need to address whether online PT shows selectivity in children as well and develop paradigms that are adequate to test preschoolers’ online level‐2 PT abilities.

Statement of Contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Adults can access how objects appear to others (level‐2 perspective) spontaneously and online

Online level‐1, but not level‐2 perspective taking (PT) has been documented in school‐aged children

What the present study adds?

Eight‐ to 9.5‐year‐olds performed a number verification task with a confederate who had the same task

Children showed similar perspective interference as adults, indicating spontaneous level‐2 PT

Not only agent‐object relations but also object appearances are computed online by eight‐ to 9.5‐year‐olds
Outcomes in 370 patients with mantle cell lymphoma treated with ibrutinib: a pooled analysis from three open‐label studies
Authors: Rule Simon , Dreyling Martin , Goy Andre , Hess Georg , Auer Rebecca , Kahl Brad , Cavazos Nora , Liu Black , Yang Shiyi , Clow Fong , Goldberg Jenna D. , Beaupre Darrin , Vermeulen Jessica , Wildgust Mark , Wang Michael
Published: August 2017

Ibrutinib is highly active in treating mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), an aggressive B‐cell lymphoma. We pooled data from three ibrutinib studies to explore the impact of baseline patient characteristics on treatment response. Patients with relapsed/refractory MCL (n = 370) treated with ibrutinib had an objective response rate (ORR) of 66% (20% complete response; 46% partial response); median duration of response (DOR), progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 18·6, 12·8 and 25·0 months, respectively. Univariate analyses showed patients with one versus >one prior line of therapy had longer OS. Multivariate analyses identified that one prior line of therapy affected PFS; Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status, simplified MCL international prognostic index (sMIPI) score, bulky disease, and blastoid histology affected OS and PFS. Patients with blastoid versus non‐blastoid histology had similar time to best response, but lower ORR, DOR, PFS and OS. OS and PFS were longer in patients with better sMIPI, patients with ECOG performance status 0–1, non‐bulky disease and non‐blastoid histology. Additionally, the proportion of patients with poor prognostic factors increased with increasing lines of therapy. Together, results suggest that patient outcomes following treatment failure with ibrutinib are related to the natural biological evolution of the disease.
Early‐stage Hodgkin lymphoma outcomes after combined modality therapy according to the post‐chemotherapy 5‐point score: can residual pet‐positive disease be cured with radiotherapy alone?
Authors: Milgrom Sarah A. , Pinnix Chelsea C. , Chuang Hubert , Oki Yasuhiro , Akhtari Mani , Mawlawi Osama , Garg Naveen , Gunther Jillian R. , Reddy Jay P. , Smith Grace L. , Rohren Eric , Hagemeister Frederick B. , Lee Hun J. , Fayad Luis E. , Dong Wenli , Osborne Eleanor M. , Abou Yehia Zeinab , Fanale Michelle , Dabaja Bouthaina S.
Published: August 2017

Early‐stage classical Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) patients are evaluated by an end‐of‐chemotherapy positron emission tomography‐computed tomography (eoc‐PET‐CT) after doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine and dacarbazine (ABVD) and before radiation therapy (RT). We determined freedom from progression (FFP) in patients treated with ABVD and RT according to the eoc‐PET‐CT 5‐point score (5PS). Secondarily, we assessed whether patients with a positive eoc‐PET‐CT (5PS of 4–5) can be cured with RT alone. The cohort comprised 174 patients treated for stage I‐II HL with ABVD and RT alone. ABVD was given with a median of four cycles and RT with a median dose of 30·6 Gy. Five‐year FFP was 97%. Five‐year FFP was 100% (0 relapses/98 patients) for patients with a 5PS of 1–2, 97% (2/65) for a 5PS of 3, 83% (1/8) for a 5PS of 4, and 67% (1/3) for a 5PS of 5 (P < 0·001). Patients with positive eoc‐PET‐CT scans who were selected for salvage RT alone had experienced a very good partial response to ABVD. Risk factors for recurrence in this subgroup included a small reduction in tumour size and a ‘bounce’ in ≥1 PET‐CT parameter (reduction then rise from interim to final scan). Thus, a positive eoc‐PET‐CT is associated with inferior FFP; however, appropriately selected patients can be cured with RT alone.
Longitudinal Trajectories of Family Functioning Among Recent Immigrant Adolescents and Parents: Links With Adolescent and Parent Cultural Stress, Emotional Well‐Being, and Behavioral Health
Authors: Lorenzo‐Blanco Elma I. , Meca Alan , Piña‐Watson Brandy , Zamboanga Byron L. , Szapocznik José , Cano Miguel Ángel. , Cordova David , Unger Jennifer B. , Romero Andrea , Des Rosiers Sabrina E. , Soto Daniel W. , Villamar Juan A. , Pattarroyo Monica , Lizzi Karina M. , Schwartz Seth J.
Published: August 2017

This study examined longitudinal effects of adolescent and parent cultural stress on adolescent and parent emotional well‐being and health behaviors via trajectories of adolescent and parent family functioning. Recent immigrant Latino adolescents (Mage = 14.51) and parents (Mage = 41.09; N = 302) completed measures of these constructs. Latent growth modeling indicated that adolescent and parent family functioning remained stable over time. Early levels of family functioning predicted adolescent and parent outcomes. Baseline adolescent cultural stress predicted lower positive adolescent and parent family functioning. Latent class growth analyses produced a two‐class solution for family functioning. Adolescents and parents in the low family functioning class reported low family functioning over time. Adolescents and parents in the high family functioning class experienced increases in family functioning.
Serum chemerin levels are inversely associated with renal function in a general population
Authors: Zylla Stephanie , Rettig Rainer , Völzke Henry , Endlich Karlhans , Nauck Matthias , Friedrich Nele
Published: August 2017

Objective

Chemerin has been found to be highly expressed in the kidneys of rodents and has been suggested to affect metabolic syndrome (MetS)‐related phenotypes which are in turn related to kidney damage. Only few clinical studies have addressed the relation between circulating chemerin and renal function in humans, and no population‐based analyses have yet been performed. The potential influence of MetS‐related phenotypes on the assumed association has been largely neglected. We aimed to investigate the association of serum chemerin with renal function in a general population with special regard to possible interactions between chemerin and metabolic phenotypes.

Design, patients and measurements

Linear and logistic regression models were applied to analyse data from 4082 subjects of the German Study of Health in Pomerania. Main outcomes included estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), serum creatinine and cystatin C and chronic kidney disease.

Results

Inverse associations of chemerin with eGFR were observed. The components of the MetS emerged as modulating factors in this relation and enhanced the association. Logistic regression models confirmed the relation between chemerin and eGFR and revealed that each increase in chemerin per 25 ng/mL was associated with an about threefold higher odds of chronic kidney disease [odds ratio 2.72 (95% confidence interval 2.26‐3.29)].

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate a strong inverse association between serum chemerin levels and renal function. This association might be explained by MetS‐related phenotypes, which lead to renal damage and are associated with increased chemerin levels and/or an impaired renal elimination of chemerin by diseased kidneys.
Perceived barriers to and drivers of community participation in protected‐area governance
Authors: Ward Caroline , Holmes George , Stringer Lindsay
Published: August 2017

Protected areas (PAs) are a frequently used conservation strategy, yet their socioeconomic impacts on local communities remain contentious. A shift toward increased participation by local communities in PA governance seeks to deliver benefits for human well‐being and biodiversity. Although participation is considered critical to the success of PAs, few researchers have investigated individuals’ decisions to participate and what this means for how local people experience the costs and benefits of conservation. We explored who participates in PA governance associations and why; the perceived benefits and costs to participation; and how costs and benefits are distributed within and between communities. Methods included 3 focus groups, 37 interviews, and 217 questionnaire surveys conducted in 3 communities and other stakeholders (e.g., employees of a nongovernmental organization and government officials) in PA governance in Madagascar. Our study design was grounded in the theory of planned behavior (TPB), the most commonly applied behavior model in social psychology. Participation in PA governance was limited by miscommunication and lack of knowledge about who could get involved and how. Respondents perceived limited benefits and high costs and uneven distribution of these within and between communities. Men, poorer households, and people in remote villages reported the highest costs. Our findings illustrate challenges related to comanagement of PAs: understanding the heterogeneous nature of communities; ensuring all households are represented in governance participation; understanding differences in the meaning of forest protection; and targeting interventions to reach households most in need to avoid elite capture.
Clinical practice guidelines for neonatal arterial ischaemic stroke
Authors: Debillon Thierry , Ego Anne , Chabrier Stephane
Published: August 2017

This letter is commented on by Mineyko and Kirton on pages 892–893 of this issue
Neonatal arterial ischemic stroke: evidence required for future guidelines
Authors: Mineyko Aleksandra , Kirton Adam
Published: August 2017

This commentary is on the letter to the editor by Debillon et al. on pages 980–981 of this issue.
Interrater reliability of two gait performance measures in children with neuromotor disorders across two different settings
Authors: Ammann‐Reiffer Corinne , Bastiaenen Caroline H G , de Bie Rob A , van Hedel Hubertus J A
Published: August 2017

Aim

To examine the interrater agreement of the two gait performance measures – the Functional Mobility Scale (FMS) and Gillette Functional Assessment Questionnaire – walking scale (FAQ) – within health professionals and parents in children with neuromotor disorders, measured in an inpatient setting and at home.

Method

Seventy‐one children with a neuromotor diagnosis (44 males, 27 females; median age 12y 11mo [interquartile range 4y–10mo]) were consecutively recruited when starting an inpatient active gait rehabilitation programme. Physiotherapists and nurses independently scored the level of children's gait performance with the FMS and the FAQ, while parents’ scores regarding the children's gait performance at home were obtained by interview or telephone call at the same measurement points.

Results

Linear weighted kappa coefficients were substantial to almost perfect for all comparisons. Kappa coefficients ranged from 0.62 to 0.85 for the FMS‐5, from 0.79 to 0.92 for the FMS‐50, from 0.83 to 0.90 for the FMS‐500, and from 0.69 to 0.77 for the FAQ. Friedman tests did not reveal significant differences between the different rater groups.

Interpretation

The unexpectedly high level of interrater agreement between parents, physiotherapists, and nurses demonstrates that the FMS and FAQ can reliably assess gait performance in an inpatient setting. Inpatient scores correspond well to the children's performance in their usual environment.

What this paper adds

The Functional Mobility Scale and Gillette Functional Assessment Questionnaire – walking scale measure gait performance reliably at home and in an inpatient setting.

Physiotherapists, nurses, and parents reliably score gait performance.

Inpatient gait performance scores correspond well to children's performance at home.

Physiotherapists and nurses in an inpatient setting can reliably estimate gait performance at home.
Shoal sex composition affects exploration in the Mediterranean killifish
Authors: Lucon‐Xiccato Tyrone , Griggio Matteo
Published: August 2017

As a consequence of sexual selection, males and females may exhibit wide behavioural differences, for example, spatial behaviour. In fish, the two sexes often show different exploratory tendencies. This sex difference has been usually studied by testing individual fish. As many fish species live in social groups with different sex composition, the aforementioned approach might not picture the natural variation of the exploratory behaviour expressed by males and females. Here, we observed shoals of four Mediterranean killifish,Aphanius fasciatus, with three different sex compositions (4 females, 4 males, or 2 females and 2 males) during the exploration of a novel environment. Sex composition of the shoals did not predict the latency to emerge from a shelter into the novel environment. However, once emerged, shoals composed by four males displayed reduced exploratory behaviour compared to 4‐female and mixed‐sex shoals. These results indicated that sex differences in exploration subsist also at group level and highlighted the importance of sex composition in determining the behaviour of the entire shoal.
Negative impact of urban noise on sexual receptivity and clutch size in female domestic canaries
Authors: Huet des Aunay Guillaume , Grenna Marco , Slabbekoorn Hans , Nicolas Pierre , Nagle Laurent , Leboucher Gérard , Malacarne Giorgio , Draganoiu Tudor I.
Published: August 2017

In oscines, male song stimulates female reproduction and females are known to adjust both their sexual preferences and their maternal investment according to song quality. Female domestic canaries are especially responsive to wide frequency bandwidth (4 kHz) male songs emitted with a high‐repetition syllable rate and low minimal frequencies (1 kHz). We previously showed that low‐frequency urban noise decreases female sexual responsiveness for these low‐frequency songs (1–5 kHz) through auditory masking. Based on the differential allocation hypothesis, we predicted that urban noise exposure will equally affect female maternal investment. Using a crossover design, we broadcast low‐frequency songs to females either in an overlapping noise condition or in an alternating noise condition. Females decreased both their sexual responsiveness and their clutch size in the overlapping noise treatment relative to the alternative noise treatment. No differences were found concerning egg size or egg composition (yolk and albumen mass, testosterone concentration). Due to our experimental design, we can exclude a general impact of noisy conditions and thereby provide evidence for a detrimental effect through masking on avian courtship and reproductive output. These results suggest that noisy conditions may also affect avian communication in outdoor conditions, which may partly explain field reports on noise‐dependent breeding success and reduced breeding densities at noisy sites.
Development and clinical evaluation of a new sensor design for buccal pulse oximetry in horses
Authors: Reiners J. K. , Rossdeutscher W. , Hopster K. , Kästner S. B. R.
Published: August 2017

Background

The use of pulse oximetry in horses is limited due to inadequate readings with conventional transmission sensor probes.

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to 1) develop an improved sensor design for horses to be used at an appropriate anatomical site, and 2) evaluate this design in an experimental study.

Study design

In vivo experiment.

Methods

A new sensor design for reflectance pulse oximetry at the buccal mucosa was developed. A conventional Nonin 2000SL sensor for transmission pulse oximetry was included into this design. Three different prototypes (N1, N2a, N2b) were constructed and used with the Nonin 2500A Vet pulse oximetry monitor. Thirteen anaesthetised warmblood horses were included into a desaturation protocol (100–70% SaO2). SpO2 and pulse frequency values were recorded, using SaO2 calculated from blood gas analysis and invasive pulse frequency measurements as reference methods. Bias and precision were evaluated by calculations of the root mean square deviation (Arms). The agreement of the methods was tested with Bland‐Altman analysis.

Results

The quality of the pulse frequency readings determined the quality of the SpO2‐readings. Good pulse signal strength resulted in a SpO2‐accuracy comparable to that of the original sensor (Nonin 2000SL: Arms = 3%; N1: Arms = 3.60%; N2b: Arms = 3.46%). Especially at heart rates ≤30 bpm, pulse rate readings that were about twice as high as the reference value occurred. Their exclusion from the dataset resulted in a pulse rate accuracy similar to that of the original sensor. Bland‐Altman plots showed limits of agreement typical of pulse oximeters.

Main limitations

The pulse frequency accuracy requires further improvement. The usability in clinical cases needs to be tested.

Conclusions

The new sensor design has been shown to be suitable for buccal pulse oximetry in horses.
Duel or Dual: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Parenting Coordination for Uber‐Conflicted Parenting Relationships
Authors: Brown William RJP , Behrman Lauren , Zimmerman Jeffrey
Published: August 2017

Parenting coordination for families struggling with severe conflict can be challenging for both the family and the parenting coordinator (PC). These families can put an inordinate strain on the PC as they lobby their positions and try to bias the PC against the other parent. The interdisciplinary dual‐PC model is an innovative approach using aspects of the collaborative practice model to enhance the efficacy of the process while utilizing the strengths of both disciplines. Through a case illustration, the identification of the family dynamics and situations that give rise to use of this approach shall become clear. This article also demonstrates the potential benefits to both the family and the PCs. All aspects synthesize into a cohesive, well‐balanced approach to the uber‐conflicted parenting relationships.
Commentary on Entrenched Postseparation Parenting Disputes: The Role of Interparental Hatred
Authors: Johnston Janet R.
Published: August 2017

This Comment on Smyth and Moloney's article discusses the historical context and earlier work on the role of interparental hate in high‐conflict divorce. A seminal line of clinical research on the core psychological dynamics of entrenched postdivorce disputes over children is identified and traced through three main research programs in California, Israel, and Australia. The importance of assessing hate as a risk factor in working with separated and divorced families is discussed, along with cautions about its misuse.
Young Children in Divorce and Separation: Pilot Study of a Mediation‐Based Co‐Parenting Intervention
Authors: McIntosh Jennifer E. , Tan Evelyn S.
Published: August 2017

This article reports on a cluster randomized pilot study of a mediation‐based intervention for separated parents of very young children, Young Children in Divorce and Separation (YCIDS). The control group intervention was “Mediation plus Reading.” Participants were separated parents attending mediation over a co‐parenting dispute concerning a child under the age of 5 years (n=33 cases). Nine of the 16 key child and parent outcomes were significantly better for the intervention group, with the remainder nonsignificant between groups. Mediators reported 35 per cent lower referral on to legal action for YCIDS cases following mediation. Implementation complexities of the YCIDS program led to the development of an online intervention format, now the subject of a further study. Further implications of this pilot study are discussed.
Evaluation of the University of Denver's Center for Separating and Divorcing Families: The First Out‐of‐Court Divorce Option1
Authors: Pruett Marsha Kline , Cornett Logan
Published: August 2017

The Resource Center for Separating and Divorcing Families (RCSDF) is the first U.S. alternative dispute resolution model to provide legal dispute resolution, therapeutic, educational, and financial services to separating and divorcing families in a single location outside the courthouse. Data were collected on 82 families at entry and service completion: service utilization, process timeliness, family satisfaction, and outcomes. Parents were highly satisfied with the process and demonstrated significant improvements in personal well‐being, co‐parenting, parenting quality, and reported reductions in children's anxiety/depression. Community partners felt RCSDF was a positive innovation in their community. The RCSDF model represents a culture shift from an adversarial process to a cohesive alternative that supports the well‐being of all family members.
Entrenched Postseparation Parenting Disputes: The Role of Interparental Hatred?
Authors: Smyth Bruce M. , Moloney Lawrence J.
Published: August 2017

There is an emerging view that the term “high conflict” oversimplifies the nature of destructive family dynamics, especially with respect to the small but resource‐intensive group of separated parents who remain deeply enmeshed in legal battles and parental acrimony. In this Article we propose that interparental hatred may be a key relationship dynamic driving the behavior of some in this group. We suggest a distinction between two types of interparental hatred: one that arises from responses to separation‐related stresses (reactive hatred) and the other (entrenched hatred) that is indicative of more embedded, dysfunctional interpersonal dynamics and/or personality structures. While reactive hatred is typically time limited and amenable to professional intervention, entrenched hatred tends to overwhelm rationally informed attempts to mediate, negotiate, or even adhere to orders regarding suitable parenting arrangements. We contend that while effective intervention in these cases requires all the generic skills and responses necessary for dealing with highly conflicted disputes, it is also important to name and appropriately challenge interparental hatred when it is detected.
The Need for a Stronger Definition: Recognizing Abandonment as a form of Elder Abuse Across the United States
Authors: Rzeszut Stephanie M.
Published: August 2017

Elder abuse is a growing public health problem in the United States and statistics show that each year, hundreds of thousands of elders are abused in some manner. This Note discusses elder abuse while focusing specifically on the occurrence of elder abandonment and how the majority of states do not recognize elder abandonment as a form of elder abuse in their statutes. Moreover, this Note proposes a model statute to be adopted by every state in an effort for elder abandonment to become more widely reported. Elder abandonment is an unfortunate phenomenon and those who contribute to elder abandonment should face criminal liability similar to those abusers who engage in elder neglect or other types of elder abuse. Furthermore, this Note emphasizes that there should be a greater focus on how caregivers can seek assistance in order to prevent elder abuse in the United States.
The Planning, Implementation, and Assessment of an International Internship Program: An Exploratory Case Study
Authors: Wu Shu‐Ling
Published: August 2017

This exploratory case study reported the planning, implementation, and assessment of an international internship undertaken in a Taiwanese company by an American university student who was operating independently abroad. The model required the student to establish learning objectives, self‐assess language use and learning strategies, and engage in critical reflection. Weekly oral journals and pre/post language proficiency test results revealed substantial progress in Chinese linguistic skills and deeper professional knowledge.
Streambed scour of salmon spawning habitat in a regulated river influenced by management of peak discharge
Authors: Gendaszek Andrew S. , Burton Karl , Magirl Christopher S. , Konrad Christopher P.
Published: August 2017

In the Pacific Northwest of the United States, salmon eggs incubating within streambed gravels are susceptible to scour during floods. The threat to egg‐to‐fry survival by streambed scour is mitigated, in part, by the adaptation of salmon to bury their eggs below the typical depth of scour. In regulated rivers globally, we suggest that water managers consider the effect of dam operations on scour and its impacts on species dependent on benthic habitats.

We instrumented salmon‐spawning habitat with accelerometer scour monitors (ASMs) at 73 locations in 11 reaches of the Cedar River in western Washington State of the United States from Autumn 2013 through the Spring of 2014. The timing of scour was related to the discharge measured at a nearby gage and compared to previously published ASM data at 26 locations in two reaches of the Cedar River collected between Autumn 2010 and Spring 2011.

Thirteen percent of the recovered ASMs recorded scour during a peak‐discharge event in March 2014 (2‐to 3‐year recurrence interval) compared to 71% of the recovered ASMs during a higher peak‐discharge event in January 2011 (10‐year recurrence interval). Of the 23 locations where ASMs recorded scour during the 2011 and 2014 deployments, 35% had scour when the discharge was ≤87.3 m3/s (3,082 ft3/s) (2‐year recurrence interval discharge) with 13% recording scour at or below the 62.3 m3/s (2,200 ft3/s) operational threshold for peak‐discharge management during the incubation of salmon eggs.

Scour to the depth of salmon egg pockets was limited during peak discharges with frequent (1.25‐year or less) recurrence intervals, which managers can regulate through dam operations on the Cedar River. Pairing novel measurements of the timing of streambed scour with discharge data allows the development of peak‐discharge management strategies that protect salmon eggs incubating within streambed gravels during floods.
Agriculture erases climate‐driven β‐diversity in Neotropical bird communities
Authors: Karp Daniel S. , Frishkoff Luke O. , Echeverri Alejandra , Zook Jim , Juárez Pedro , Chan Kai M. A.
Published: August 2017

Earth is experiencing multiple global changes that will, together, determine the fate of many species. Yet, how biological communities respond to concurrent stressors at local‐to‐regional scales remains largely unknown. In particular, understanding how local habitat conversion interacts with regional climate change to shape patterns in β‐diversity—differences among sites in their species compositions—is critical to forecast communities in the Anthropocene. Here, we study patterns in bird β‐diversity across land‐use and precipitation gradients in Costa Rica. We mapped forest cover, modeled regional precipitation, and collected data on bird community composition, vegetation structure, and tree diversity across 120 sites on 20 farms to answer three questions. First, do bird communities respond more strongly to changes in land use or climate in northwest Costa Rica? Second, does habitat conversion eliminate β‐diversity across climate gradients? Third, does regional climate control how communities respond to habitat conversion and, if so, how? After correcting for imperfect detection, we found that local land‐use determined community shifts along the climate gradient. In forests, bird communities were distinct between sites that differed in vegetation structure or precipitation. In agriculture, however, vegetation structure was more uniform, contributing to 7%–11% less bird turnover than in forests. In addition, bird responses to agriculture and climate were linked: agricultural communities across the precipitation gradient shared more species with dry than wet forest communities. These findings suggest that habitat conversion and anticipated climate drying will act together to exacerbate biotic homogenization.
A rare mineral, vaterite, acts as a shock absorber in the eggshell of a communally nesting bird
Authors: Portugal Steven J. , Bowen James , Riehl Christina
Published: August 2017

Birds’ eggshells are primarily composed of calcite, an abundant polymorph of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). However, the eggshells of some species are coated with spherules of vaterite, a rare and thermodynamically unstable polymorph of CaCO3, the function of which remains unknown. We experimentally tested the mechanical and physiological effects of the vaterite coating on eggshells of the Greater Ani Crotophaga major, a tropical cuckoo. Vaterite removal did not affect vapour conductance rates across the eggshell, indicating that the vaterite coating does not influence gas exchange during embryonic development. However, nanoindentation revealed that the hardness and elasticity of vaterite is similar to that of calcite, and white light interferometry showed that the vaterite layer increased the total thickness of the shell cuticle by up to 10%. Furthermore, calculations of contact mechanics found that when two eggs come into contact, the depth of the surface deformation caused by the contact is far less than the thickness of the vaterite coating. These results suggest that the layer of vaterite spherules may act as a shock absorber for the underlying calcite shell, protecting it from mechanical damage caused by collision with other eggs in the nest and reducing the risk of eggshell fracture during incubation.
Visual configuration of two species of Falconidae with different foraging ecologies
Authors: Potier Simon , Bonadonna Francesco , Martin Graham R. , Isard Pierre‐François , Dulaurent Thomas , Mentek Marielle , Duriez Olivier
Published: August 2017

Significant interspecific differences in avian vision occur, even in congeneric species, and these have been correlated with differences in the perceptual challenges associated with foraging. Although diurnal raptors are assumed to be mainly visually guided in their foraging, they differ markedly in their foraging tactics and this may result in different visual demands. Among the Falconidae (Falconiformes), most falcons forage mainly on the wing for highly mobile prey, whereas caracaras forage on the ground for carrion and insects. We assessed whether Saker Falcon Falco cherrug and Southern Caracara Caracara plancus differ in their visual abilities by determining the visual fields and foveal characteristics of both species. Using an ophthalmoscopic reflex technique, we found a higher degree of binocular overlap in the caracaras than in the falcons. The high binocular overlap (47°) of the Southern Caracara may facilitate object manipulation (e.g. moving rocks) when foraging. We used an ultra‐high resolution spectral‐domain optical coherence tomography to determine foveal characteristics. We found two foveas (depressions in the retina where high visual resolution is expected) in the falcons (one central and one temporal) but only a central fovea in the caracaras. The presence of a shallower temporal fovea in Saker Falcons may help to fixate visually upon a highly mobile prey item during pursuit. We conclude that these differences in visual field configurations and foveal characteristics reflect different foraging demands, suggesting that the extraction of visual information is finely tuned to the demands of their foraging tactics.
Reinforcement of barrier function and scalp homeostasis by Senkyunolide A to fight against dandruff
Authors: Mondon P. , Ringenbach C. , Doridot E. , Genet V.
Published: August 2017

Objective

Senkyunolide‐A (SENKY) can be isolated from Apium graveolens seed oil obtained using supercritical CO2 extraction. SENKY and its parent compounds, the N‐butyl phthalides, have been demonstrated to protect cells from CO poisoning, to prevent diabetes mellitus and to decrease cancer cell proliferation. This study was undertaken to evaluate in vitro and in vivo the effect of SENKY on epidermal function improvement, Malassezia effect control, scalp soothing and dandruff reduction via skin protection‐related pathways.

Methods

DNA‐array and proteomic studies were performed on human keratinocytes, sebocytes and skin explants to demonstrate SENKY activities. Two clinical evaluations were performed under dermatologist control on 106 volunteers, with greasy or dry scalp, experiencing dandruff, itching and redness. Volunteers tested a shampoo followed, or not, by a leave‐on, containing SENKY, or their placebos. Dandruff severity and redness were scored on the scalp. Moisturization and sebum release were recorded using relevant measuring apparatus. Itching and scratching evaluations came from volunteers’ self‐declarations.

Results

DNA‐array studies on keratinocytes showed a clear regulation of skin barrier functions and epidermis defence pathways. Upregulation of epidermal differentiation complex genes was observed. These preliminary observations were reinforced by immunocytochemistry and immunohistochemistry studies showing a significant increase of involucrin, filaggrin, loricrin, SPRR, LC3B and ceramide 2 productions. Tight‐junctions and corneodesmosomes were significantly reinforced both in keratinocyte cultures (corneodesmosin, claudin, ZO‐1) and in skin explants (desmoglein). DNA‐array studies also demonstrated upregulation of genes involved in detoxification and anti‐inflammation pathways. Proteomic studies revealed that hBD2 production was increased in keratinocytes in contact with SENKY, whereas IL‐8, PGE‐2 and TLR‐9 releases were repressed as well as sebocyte lipid production. Clinical evaluations confirmed that after 3 weeks, SENKY significantly reduced dandruff intensity, redness, itching and scalp histamine content compared to placebo and beginning of treatment.

Conclusion

For the first time, SENKY has been shown to promote scalp homoeostasis by reinforcing barrier and defence functions at both gene and protein levels. It reduces irritation and redness in promoting detoxification and anti‐inflammation pathways while controlling the niche of Malassezia. Applied on scalp, SENKY significantly reduces the formation of dandruff and soothes the scalp.
The Petroleum Driver Passport scheme: a case study in reregulation
Authors: Heery Edmund , Gooberman Leon , Hauptmeier Marco
Published: August 2017

The Petroleum Driver Passport is an example of the reregulation of the labour market, the development of employment rules that apply across multiple employers in a given industry, occupation or region. The scheme requires drivers of road tankers to possess a Passport, indicating their safety competence, if they are to collect and transport fuel in the UK's downstream oil‐distribution industry. This article presents a case study of the Passport scheme, which identifies the factors that contributed to the scheme's development, assesses its impact and draws lessons for other possible initiatives to reregulate the labour market.
Stellate ganglion blockade for the treatment of refractory ventricular arrhythmias: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Fudim Marat , Boortz‐Marx Richard , Ganesh Arun , Waldron Nathan H. , Qadri Yawar J. , Patel Chetan B. , Milano Carmelo A. , Sun Albert Y. , Mathew Joseph P. , Piccini Jonathan P.
Published: August 2017

Introduction

Treatment refractory ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) are often driven and exacerbated by heightened sympathetic tone. We aim to conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis of published studies of a temporary percutaneous stellate ganglion block (SGB) on VA burden and defibrillation episodes in patients with treatment refractory VAs.

Methods

Relevant studies from January 1960 through May 2017 were identified in PubMed and Google Scholar. We performed a patient‐level analysis using Student's t‐test to compare outcomes before and after SGB.

Results

We identified 22 unique case series with a total of 35 patients. Patients were 57 ± 17 years old and 69% were males with a high burden of VA. A unilateral (left)‐sided SGB was used in 85.7% (30 of 35) of cases and the remaining were bilateral SGB. The use of a unilateral or bilateral SGB resulted in a significant reduction of VA episodes (24‐hours pre: mean 16.5 [CI 9.7–23.1] events vs. post: mean 1.4 [CI 0.85–2.01] events; P = 0.0002) and need for defibrillation (24‐hours pre: mean 14.2 [CI 6.8–21.6] vs. post: mean 0.6 [CI 0.3–0.9]; P = 0.0026). Furthermore, SGB was significantly associated with a reduction of VA burden regardless of etiology of cardiomyopathy, type of ventricular rhythm, and degree of contractile dysfunction. SGB was followed by surgical sympathectomy in 21% of cases.

Conclusions

Early experience suggests that SGB is associated with an acute reduction in the VA burden and offers potential promise for a broader use in high‐risk populations. Randomized controlled studies are needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of this therapy.
Impaired periodontium and temporomandibular joints in tumour necrosis factor‐α transgenic mice
Authors: Dobsak Toni , Heimel Patrick , Tangl Stefan , Schwarze Uwe Y. , Schett Georg , Gruber Reinhard
Published: August 2017

Aim

Tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α is a pathological factor causing the characteristic symptoms of periodontal disease and rheumatoid arthritis. In this study, we describe the phenotypes of human TNF‐α transgenic mice (hTNFtg) with respect to their periodontium and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

Material and methods

Periodontal structures, TMJ and skull shape of hTNFtg mice and wild‐type (WT) littermates were assessed by microcomputed tomography, automated segmentation, geometric morphometrics and histologic ground sections.

Results

We show that hTNFtg mice have an eroded lamina dura and reduced periodontal ligament space compared to (WT) littermates. Transgenic mice further exhibit severe destruction of the TMJ. Geometric morphometrics revealed that hTNFtg mice have a more laterally positioned TMJ with a concomitantly enlarged zygomatic process. Mandibular and maxillary teeth occluded properly.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that chronic inflammation in hTNFtg mice causes destructive changes of the periodontium and the TMJ.
The core planar cell polarity gene, Vangl2, maintains apical‐basal organisation of the corneal epithelium
Authors: Panzica D. Alessio , Findlay Amy S. , van Ladesteijn Rianne , Collinson J. Martin
Published: August 2017

The role of the core planar cell polarity (PCP) pathway protein, Vangl2, was investigated in the corneal epithelium of the mammalian eye, a paradigm anatomical model of planar cell migration. The gene was conditionally knocked out in vivo and knocked down by siRNA, followed by immunohistochemical, behavioural and morphological analysis of corneal epithelial cells. The primary defects observed in vivo were of apical‐basal organisation of the corneal epithelium, with abnormal stratification throughout life, mislocalisation of the cell membrane protein, Scribble, to the basal side of cells, and partial loss of the epithelial basement membrane. Planar defects in migration after wounding and in the presence of an applied electric field were noted. However, knockdown of Vangl2 also retarded cell migration in individual cells that had no contact with their neighbours, which precluded a classic PCP mechanism. It is concluded that some of the planar polarity phenotypes in PCP mutants may arise from disruption of apical‐basal polarity.
3‐D range of motion envelopes reveal interacting degrees of freedom in avian hind limb joints
Authors: Kambic Robert E. , Roberts Thomas J. , Gatesy Stephen M.
Published: August 2017

Measuring range of motion (ROM) is a valuable technique that can link bone morphology to joint function in both extant and extinct taxa.ROMresults are commonly presented as tables or graphs of maxima and minima for each rotational degree of freedom. We investigate the interactions among three degrees of freedom using X‐ray reconstruction of moving morphology (XROMM) to measureROMof the main hind limb joints of Helmeted Guineafowl (Numida meleagris). By plotting each rotation on an axis, we generate three‐dimensionalROMvolumes or envelopes composed of hundreds of extreme joint positions for the hip, knee, and intertarsal joints. We find that the shapes ofROMvolumes can be quite complex, and that the contribution of long‐axis rotation is often substantial. Plottingin vivoposes from individual birds executing different behaviors shows varying use of potential rotational combinations within theirROMenvelopes.XROMMcan provide unprecedented high‐resolution data on the spatial relationship of skeletal elements and thereby illuminate/elucidate the complex ways in which soft and hard tissues interact to produce functional joints. In joints with three rotational degrees of freedom, two‐dimensional representations ofROM(flexion/extension and abduction/adduction) are incomplete.