bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to best threshold and validate stacked species assemblages? Community optimisation might hold the answer
Authors: Scherrer Daniel , D'Amen Manuela , Fernandes Rui F. , Mateo Rubén G. , Guisan Antoine
Published: June 2018

The popularity of species distribution models (SDMs) and the associated stacked species distribution models (S‐SDMs), as tools for community ecologists, largely increased in recent years. However, while some consensus was reached about the best methods to threshold and evaluate individual SDMs, little agreement exists on how to best assemble individual SDMs into communities, that is, how to build and assess S‐SDM predictions.

Here, we used published data of insects and plants collected within the same study region to test (a) if the most established thresholding methods to optimize single species prediction are also the best choice for predicting species assemblage composition, or if community‐based thresholding can be a better alternative, and (b) whether the optimal thresholding method depends on taxa, prevalence distribution and/or species richness. Based on a comparison of different evaluation approaches, we provide guidelines for a robust community cross‐validation framework, to use if spatial or temporal independent data are unavailable.

Our results showed that the selection of the “optimal” assembly strategy mostly depends on the evaluation approach rather than taxa, prevalence distribution, regional species pool or species richness. If evaluated with independent data or reliable cross‐validation, community‐based thresholding seems superior compared to single species optimisation. However, many published studies did not evaluate community projections with independent data, often leading to overoptimistic community evaluation metrics based on single species optimisation.

The fact that most of the reviewed S‐SDM studies reported over‐fitted community evaluation metrics highlights the importance of developing clear evaluation guidelines for community models. Here, we move a first step in this direction, providing a framework for cross‐validation at the community level.
Active learning for classifying long‐duration audio recordings of the environment
Authors: Kholghi Mahnoosh , Phillips Yvonne , Towsey Michael , Sitbon Laurianne , Roe Paul
Published: June 2018

This paper presents an active learning (AL) framework for the classification of 1‐min audio recordings derived from long‐duration recordings of the environment. The goal of the framework was to investigate the efficacy of AL on reducing the manual annotation effort required to label a large volume of acoustic data according to its dominant sound source, while ensuring the high quality of automatically labelled data.

We present a comprehensive empirical comparison through extensive simulation experiments of a range of AL approaches against a Random Sampling baseline for soundscape classification. Random Forest is used as a benchmark supervised approach to build classifiers in the AL framework. Also, 12 summary indices extracted for each 1 min of 13‐month recording are used as features for training the classifiers.

Our experimental findings demonstrate that (a) among existing query strategies, those based on classifier confidence and diversity of samples are more effective for very large datasets where the classes are imbalanced in size; (b) by considering a practical target performance (i.e. F‐measure equal or greater than 0.8, 0.85 and 0.9) for AL, only 5–16 hr of manual annotation effort is required to build a classifier that automatically annotates a large amount (13 months) of unlabelled audio data.

Active learning has a key role to play in alleviating the burden of manual annotation required to build classifiers which can support effective monitoring of species diversity in at‐risk ecosystems.
Review article: pathogenesis of Crohn's perianal fistula—understanding factors impacting on success and failure of treatment strategies
Authors: Tozer P. J. , Lung P. , Lobo A. J. , Sebastian S. , Brown S. R. , Hart A. L. , Fearnhead N. ,   of ENiGMA Collaboration
Published: June 2018

Background

Evidence from groups who have studied fistula aetiology and extrapolation from interventional studies supports a multifactorial hypothesis of Crohn's perianal fistula, with several pathophysiological elements that may contribute to fistula formation, persistence and resistance to treatment.

Aim

An evidence synthesis of current understanding of pathophysiological factors underlying Crohn's perianal fistula is presented, exploring the fundamental reasons why some treatments succeed and others fail, as a means of focussing clinical knowledge on improving treatment of Crohn's perianal fistula.

Methods

Evidence to support this review was gathered via the Pubmed database. Studies discussing pathophysiological factors underpinning perianal fistula, particularly in Crohn's disease, were reviewed and cross‐referenced for additional reports.

Results

Pathophysiological factors that impact on success or failure of interventions for Crohn's perianal fistulae include the high‐pressure zone, obliterating the dead space, disconnecting the track from the anus, removing epithelialisation, eradicating sepsis and by‐products of bacterial colonisation, correcting abnormalities in wound repair and removing the pro‐inflammatory environment which allows fistula persistence. Most current interventions for Crohn's perianal fistulae tend to focus on a single, or at best two, aspects of the pathophysiology of Crohn's anal fistulae; as a result, failure to heal fully is common.

Conclusions

For an intervention or combination of interventions to succeed, multiple factors must be addressed. We hypothesise that correct, timely and complete attention to all of these factors in a multimodal approach represents a new direction that may enable the creation of an effective treatment algorithm for Crohn's anal fistula.
Subcutaneous rather than intravenous ustekinumab induction is associated with comparable circulating drug levels and early clinical response: a pilot study
Authors: Rowan C. R. , Keegan D. , Byrne K. , Cullen G. , Mulcahy H. E. , Sheridan J. , Ryan E. J. , de Vries A. , D'Haens G. , Doherty G. A.
Published: June 2018

Background

Ustekinumab (USK) is licenced for intravenous induction and subcutaneous (S/C) maintenance in Crohn's disease.

Aim

To evaluate ustekinumab trough concentrations and clinical response with exclusive subcutaneous ustekinumab induction.

Methods

Patients with Crohn's disease who initiated treatment with subcutaneous ustekinumab at a single academic centre were included in this pilot study. A dosage of 360 mg ustekinumab was given subcutaneously in divided doses; 180 mg at Week 0, 90 mg at Week 1 and 90 mg at Week 2, with corresponding ustekinumab trough concentrations assessed to Week 8. The primary outcome measures were trough serum ustekinumab levels and clinical remission at Week 8. Secondary outcome measures were trough serum ustekinumab levels at Week 1 & 2 and changes in C‐reactive protein, albumin and faecal calprotectin at Week 8.

Results

Nineteen patients were included. Median Week 8 ustekinumab trough concentrations were 6.1 μg/mL (Inter‐quartile range 4‐9.8 μg/mL). There was a significant improvement in Harvey Bradshaw index from Week 0 (median HBI 5; interquartile range 2‐8) to Week 8 (median HBI 1; interquartile range 0‐3) (P = 0.002). C‐reactive protein levels did not change significantly but faecal calprotectin improved significantly; median faecal calprotectin at Week 0 was 533 μg/g; at Week 8, it was 278 μg/g (P = 0.038).

Conclusions

Ustekinumab trough concentrations are comparable whether ustekinumab induction treatment was administered subcutaneously or intravenously. A significant improvement in symptoms and faecal calprotectin was noted. These results support the use of subcutaneous induction as an alternative if there are barriers to intravenous induction.
Sarcopenia is associated with the risk of significant liver fibrosis in metabolically unhealthy subjects with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Han E. , Lee Y.‐h. , Kim B. K. , Park J. Y. , Kim D. Y. , Ahn S. H. , Lee B.‐W. , Kang E. S. , Cha B.‐S. , Han K.‐H. , Kim S. U.
Published: June 2018

Background

Sarcopenia is significantly associated with the degree of liver fibrosis. This study investigated the influence of sarcopenia on liver fibrosis in individuals with chronic hepatitis B.

Methods

Data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys 2008‐2011 were analysed. The sarcopenia index (total appendicular skeletal muscle mass [kg]/body mass index [kg/m2]) was calculated using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Sarcopenia was defined as the lowest quintile sarcopenia index value (cut‐offs: 0.89 for men and 0.58 for women). The fibrotic burden was assessed using the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score and fibrosis‐4 index. Significant fibrosis was defined as the highest nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score quartile and a fibrosis‐4 index ≥2.67.

Results

Among the 506 respondents with chronic hepatitis B (258 men and 248 women), the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score and fibrosis‐4 index identified sarcopenia and significant fibrosis in 126 (24.9%) and 217 (42.9%), respectively. Sarcopenia was significantly associated with significant fibrosis, regardless of the fibrosis prediction model used (all P < 0.05). When the study population was stratified according to metabolic factors, sarcopenia was specifically associated with an increased risk of significant fibrosis among subgroups with obesity, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome and liver steatosis (odds ratio 2.37‐3.57; all P < 0.05). An independent association between sarcopenia and significant fibrosis was identified after adjusting for other confounders (odds ratio 2.67‐3.62 by the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score and 2.04‐2.62 by the fibrosis‐4 index; all P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Sarcopenia is associated with significant fibrosis in subjects with chronic hepatitis B, specifically those with obesity, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome and liver steatosis.
An expert consensus to standardise definitions, diagnosis and treatment targets for anti‐fibrotic stricture therapies in Crohn's disease
Authors: Rieder F. , Bettenworth D. , Ma C. , Parker C. E. , Williamson L. A. , Nelson S. A. , van Assche G. , Di Sabatino A. , Bouhnik Y. , Stidham R. W. , Dignass A. , Rogler G. , Taylor S. A. , Stoker J. , Rimola J. , Baker M. E. , Fletcher J. G. , Panes J. , Sandborn W. J. , Feagan B. G. , Jairath V.
Published: June 2018

Background

Fibrotic stricture is a common complication of Crohn's disease (CD) affecting approximately half of all patients. No specific anti‐fibrotic therapies are available; however, several therapies are currently under evaluation. Drug development for the indication of stricturing CD is hampered by a lack of standardised definitions, diagnostic modalities, clinical trial eligibility criteria, endpoints and treatment targets in stricturing CD.

Aim

To standardise definitions, diagnosis and treatment targets for anti‐fibrotic stricture therapies in Chron's disease.

Methods

An interdisciplinary expert panel consisting of 15 gastroenterologists and radiologists was assembled. Using modified RAND/University of California Los Angeles appropriateness methodology, 109 candidate items derived from systematic review and expert opinion focusing on small intestinal strictures were anonymously rated as inappropriate, uncertain or appropriate. Survey results were discussed as a group before a second and third round of voting.

Results

Fibrotic strictures are defined by the combination of luminal narrowing, wall thickening and pre‐stenotic dilation. Definitions of anastomotic (at site of prior intestinal resection with anastomosis) and naïve small bowel strictures were similar; however, there was uncertainty regarding wall thickness in anastomotic strictures. Magnetic resonance imaging is considered the optimal technique to define fibrotic strictures and assess response to therapy. Symptomatic strictures are defined by abdominal distension, cramping, dietary restrictions, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and post‐prandial abdominal pain. Need for intervention (endoscopic balloon dilation or surgery) within 24‐48 weeks is considered the appropriate endpoint in pharmacological trials.

Conclusions

Consensus criteria for diagnosis and response to therapy in stricturing Crohn's disease should inform both clinical practice and trial design.
Informed consent and nudging
Authors: Simkulet William
Published: June 2018

In order to avoid patient abuse, under normal situations before performing a medical intervention on a patient, a physician must obtain informed consent from that patient, where to give genuine informed consent a patient must be competent, understand her condition, her options and their expected risks and benefits, and must expressly consent to one of those options. However, many patients refrain from the option that their physician believes to be best, and many physicians worry that their patients make irrational healthcare decisions, hindering their ability to provide efficient healthcare for their patients. Some philosophers have proposed a solution to this problem: they advocate that physicians nudge their patients to steer them towards their physician's preferred option. A nudge is any influence designed to predictably alter a person's behavior without limiting their options or giving them reasons to act. Proponents of nudging contend that nudges are consistent with obtaining informed consent. Here I argue that nudging is incompatible with genuine informed consent, as it violates a physician's obligation to tell their patients the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth during adequate disclosure.
Dyserythropoiesis in the diagnosis of the myelodysplastic syndromes and other myeloid neoplasms: problem areas
Authors: Goasguen Jean E. , Bennett John M. , Bain Barbara J. , Brunning Richard , Vallespi Maria‐Teresa , Tomonaga Masao , Zini Gina , Renault Alain ,   (The International Working Group on Morphology of MDS)
Published: June 2018

An evaluation of the significance of specified dyserythropoietic features in suspected myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukaemia with erythroid dysplasia was made by means of evaluation of 100 electronic images of bone marrow erythroblasts from each of 20 subjects: 11 with a myeloid neoplasm, six with another condition that could cause erythroid dysplasia and three healthy controls. The evaluation was carried out independently by seven experienced haematologists/haematopathologists who were blinded to the diagnosis. The majority of the dyserythropoietic features listed in the World Health Organization Classification of Tumours of Haematopoietic and Lymphoid Tissues were validated, although karyorrhexis was found to be infrequent and lacking in specificity; multinuclearity and megaloblastosis were more often observed but also lacked specificity. Good majority agreement on the identification of dysplastic features was obtained. Despite this, it was demonstrated that a reliable diagnosis of MDS can often not be made on the basis of erythroid morphology alone. Interpretation of dyserythropoiesis must be carried out with full knowledge of other clinicopathological features and with a constant awareness of the other conditions that can be confused with MDS. An iron stain is essential, as cases with ring sideroblasts may otherwise not be recognised as having MDS.
Smiles in face matching: Idiosyncratic information revealed through a smile improves unfamiliar face matching performance
Authors: Mileva Mila , Burton A. Mike
Published: June 2018

Unfamiliar face matching is a surprisingly difficult task, yet we often rely on people's matching decisions in applied settings (e.g., border control). Most attempts to improve accuracy (including training and image manipulation) have had very limited success. In a series of studies, we demonstrate that using smiling rather than neutral pairs of images brings about significant improvements in face matching accuracy. This is true for both match and mismatch trials, implying that the information provided through a smile helps us detect images of the same identity as well as distinguishing between images of different identities. Study 1 compares matching performance when images in the face pair display either an open‐mouth smile or a neutral expression. In Study 2, we add an intermediate level, closed‐mouth smile, to identify the effect of teeth being exposed, and Study 3 explores face matching accuracy when only information about the lower part of the face is available. Results demonstrate that an open‐mouth smile changes the face in an idiosyncratic way which aids face matching decisions. Such findings have practical implications for matching in the applied context where we typically use neutral images to represent ourselves in official documents.
ENDOGENOUS CYCLES IN A SIMPLE MODEL WITH LAGGED EXTERNALITIES ON PRODUCTIVITY
Authors: Nishida Keigo
Published: June 2018

This paper presents a simple model of endogenous cycles. In the model, working experience creates learning‐by‐doing externalities that improve labor productivity but it takes long time before the externalities come into effect. In addition, individuals have preferences with a subsistence consumption level. In the presence of the subsistence consumption requirement, a productivity increase generates the income effect that surpasses the substitution effect, and individuals choose to increase leisure time at the expense of supplying labor. The interactions between productivity changes through the lagged externalities and labor supply generate cycles endogenously. The model analysis shows that the dynamics exhibit cyclical fluctuations around a unique steady state.
Children's Vulnerability to Interparental Conflict: The Protective Role of Sibling Relationship Quality
Authors: Davies Patrick T. , Parry Lucia Q. , Bascoe Sonnette M. , Martin Meredith J. , Cummings E. Mark
Published: June 2018

This study tested whether the strength of the mediational pathway involving interparental conflict, adolescent emotional insecurity, and their psychological problems depended on the quality of their sibling relationships. Using a multimethod approach, 236 adolescents (Mage = 12.6 years) and their parents participated in three annual measurement occasions. Tests of moderated mediation revealed that indirect paths among interparental conflict, insecurity, and psychological problems were significant for teens with low, but not high, quality bonds with siblings. High‐quality (i.e., strong) sibling relationships conferred protection by neutralizing interparental conflict as a precursor of increases in adolescent insecurity. Results did not vary as a function of the valence of sibling relationship properties, adolescent sex, or gender and age compositions of the dyad.
Does Parent–Child Discussion of Peer Provocations Reduce Young Children's Hostile Attributional Bias?
Authors: van Dijk Anouk , Poorthuis Astrid M.G. , Thomaes Sander , de Castro Bram O.
Published: June 2018

Two studies investigated whether parent–child discussion of peer provocations reduces young children's hostile attributional bias. Study 1 (N = 109, age 4–7)—an observational study—showed that parent–child discussion of nonhostile attributions (when reading a picture book) predicted reductions in children's hostile attributional bias from pre‐ to postdiscussion. Study 2 (N = 160, age 4–6)—an experimental study—showed that stimulating parents to discuss either nonhostile attributions or normative beliefs (vs. a control condition) reduced children's hostile attributional bias in response to hypothetical vignettes, but not in response to a staged peer provocation. These findings suggest that by framing social situations, parents may help their children perceive less hostility in their social worlds.
Treatment effect of CDKN1A on rheumatoid arthritis by mediating proliferation and invasion of fibroblast-like synoviocytes cells
Authors: Gang X , Xu H , Si L , Zhu X , Yu T , Jiang Z , Wang Y
Published: June 2018

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the role of CDKN1A in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Related gene expression data screened from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) were processed with network analysis. Protein–protein interaction was analysed through string database. Quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (qRT–PCR) was used to measure mRNA and microRNA expression. Cell proliferation and cell cycle were tested by MTT assay and flow cytometry, respectively. Transwell migration and invasion assay was used to test cell migration and invasion. CDKN1A screened by bioinformatics methods showed differential expression in RA cells compared with healthy controls (HC), and was at an important position in the protein–protein interaction network of RA. Compared with the HC group, CDKN1A was down-regulated in human RA synovium tissues and human fibroblast-like synoviocytes (HFLS). Contrary to CDKN1A silencing, CDKN1A over-expression significantly inhibited the proliferation and invasion of HFLS-RA, arrested HFLS-RA in G0/G1 phase and down-regulated the expressions of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6, while it up-regulated the expression of IL-10. CDKN1A over-expression could also suppress phosphorylated signal transducers and activators of transcription 1 (pSTAT-1) expression. MiR-146a, highly expressed in RA tissues, could regulate CDKN1A negatively. Anti-146a suppressed cell proliferation and invasion, and at the same time enhanced IL-10 expression but inhibited IL-6, TNF-α and pSTAT-1 expression. The results indicated that CDKN1A over-expression, which could be enhanced by miR-146a suppression, inhibited the proliferation of invasion in HFLS-RA. This was probably a result of suppressed pSTAT-1, IL-6 and TNF-α expression and enhanced IL-10 expression.
Hyponatremia, falls and bone fractures: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Corona Giovanni , Norello Dario , Parenti Gabriele , Sforza Alessandra , Maggi Mario , Peri Alessandro
Published: June 2018

Objective

To perform a meta‐analysis based on published studies that compared falls and bone fractures between patients with and without hyponatremia.

Context

There is evidence suggesting that hyponatremia is associated with an increased risk of falls and bone fractures.

Design

An extensive Medline, Embase and Cochrane search was performed to retrieve all studies published up to, 30 April 2017, using the following words: “hyponatremia” or “hyponatraemia” AND “falls” and “bone fractures.” A meta‐analysis was performed including all studies comparing falls and bone fractures in subjects with or without hyponatremia.

Patients and Results

Of 216 retrieved articles, 15 studies satisfied inclusion criteria encompassing a total of 51 879 patients, of whom 2329 were hyponatremic. Across all studies, hyponatremia was associated with a significantly increased risk of falls (MH‐OR = 2.14[1.71; 2.67]. This result was confirmed when only hospitalized patients were considered (MH‐OR = 2.44 [1.97; 3.02]). A meta‐regression analysis showed that the hyponatremia‐related risk of falls was higher in those studies considering a lower serum [Na+] cut‐off to define hyponatremia. Interestingly, the estimated risk of falls related to hyponatremia was already significantly higher when a serum [Na+] cut‐off of 135 mmol/L was considered (MH‐OR = 1.26[1.23;1.29]). The presence of hyponatremia was also associated with a higher risk of fractures, particularly hip fractures (MH‐OR = 2.00[1.43;2.81]).

Conclusions

This study confirms that hyponatremia is associated with an increased risk of falls and bone fractures. The clinical, social and economic relevance of such association is strengthened by the increased incidence of hyponatremia in older people.
Small for gestational age is a risk factor for the development of delayed thyrotropin elevation in infants weighing less than 2000 g
Authors: Uchiyama Atsushi , Watanabe Hirokazu , Nakanishi Hidehiko , Totsu Satsuki
Published: June 2018

Objective

Delayed thyrotropin (TSH) elevation (dTSHe) is common in low birthweight infants. We aimed to clarify the risk factors for the development of dTSHe in infants weighing <2000 g at birth.

Patients and Methods

According to Japanese guidelines, infants with birthweight <2000 g underwent second capillary TSH screening within 30 days, either at 1 month of age; or when weight reached 2.5 kg; or at discharge. dTSHe was defined as TSH >20 mIU/L by venous sampling following a normal result (<15 mIU/L) at first screening aged 4‐6 days. For each infant who developed dTHSe three babies without dTSHe were selected and matched for gestational age and birth year. Small for gestational age (SGA) was defined as a birthweight <10th percentile for the gestational age and sex. A multivariate analysis was performed to identify risk factors for the development of dTSHe.

Results

Among the 911 study infants, 17 infants (1.9%) had dTSHe. The median (range) birthweight in the dTSHe group (796 [388‐1912] g) was significantly smaller than the comparison group (961 [408‐1981] g) (P = 0.04). The number (%) of SGA infants was significantly higher in the dTSHe group (12 [71%]) than in the comparison group (13 [25%]) (P = 0.001). The multivariate analysis revealed that SGA was an independent risk factor for the development of dTSHe (adjusted odds ratio, 9.0; 95% confidence interval, 2.5‐32.8; P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Small for gestational age is an independent risk factor for the development of dTSHe in infants with a birthweight <2000 g. The influence of prematurity, a matching criterion for this study, on dTSHe requires additional study.
Cicatricial ectropion surgery: a prospective study of long‐term symptom control, patient satisfaction and anatomical success
Authors: McKelvie James , Papchenko Taras , Carroll Stuart , Ng Stephen GJ
Published: June 2018

Importance

Cicatricial ectropion repair is effective and has a low complication rate.

Background

To evaluate the effectiveness and long‐term functional outcomes of surgical repair of lower lid cicatricial ectropion.

Design

Prospective consecutive case series.

Participants

Forty‐four consecutive operations for cicatricial ectropion repair.

Methods

Consecutive cases of cicatricial ectropion repair completed during 2007–2011 in Waikato Hospital and Hamilton Eye Clinic, New Zealand, were enrolled in the study following formal ethics approval. Ectropion repair was completed using inferior retractor repositioning, horizontal lid tightening and full‐thickness skin grafting.

Main Outcome Measures

Patient‐reported symptoms and satisfaction, ectropion recurrence and punctal ectropion.

Results

Forty‐four eyes of 40 patients (30 males and 10 female) were included in the study. The average age at surgery was 75 years. Watering and poor appearance were the most common presenting symptoms. Postoperative follow‐up was 1–6 years (mean = 4 years). There were no major perioperative complications, one patient developed trichiasis postoperatively. There were five reoperations (11%) during the study period. Two patients underwent medial spindle procedures for symptomatic medial ectropion and three patients required additional horizontal lid tightening. Seventy percent of patients reported satisfaction with their long‐term results despite the partial recurrence of symptoms in 45%. Ectropion recurrence in <1 year occurred in three patients.

Conclusion and Relevance

In this series, satisfactory appearance and symptom control were reported by 68% of patients at long‐term follow‐up. Preoperative marked ectropion with marked lid laxity is associated with early treatment failure and may be regarded as a relative contraindication to surgical correction with this technique. Punctal ectropion is an unreliable indicator of functional success.
Determinants of parental participation in Family‐centered Care in Juvenile Justice Institutions
Authors: Simons Inge , Mulder Eva , Breuk René , Rigter Henk , van Domburgh Lieke , Vermeiren Robert
Published: June 2018

This study assessed if staff members of two juvenile justice institutions in the Netherlands were able to motivate parents to participate in a programme of Family‐centred Care. For research purposes, parents were considered to participate if they (a) attended the family meeting, (b) visited their son during regular visiting hours, and (c) participated in measurements. Study participants were the parents of 139 short‐term detained male adolescents. The family meeting was attended by 47% of the parents, most adolescents (74.1%) were visited at least once by their parents, and 42% of the parents participated in measurements. Several factors influenced the parental participation rate variables, although effect sizes were small. The more parenting problems parents faced, the less likely they were to attend the family meeting. Parents with a job visited their son more often than unemployed parents. Finally, a longer stay of the adolescent and Dutch ethnicity predicted more parental participation in measurements. Our study showed that parental participation is feasible. However, the participation rates in the two years after the first steps of implementation were eligible for improvement. More implementation experience where staff could fully benefit from training and coaching in family‐centred work could substantially increase parental participation rates.
Making habitat connectivity a reality
Authors: Keeley Annika T. H. , Basson Galli , Cameron D. Richard , Heller Nicole E. , Huber Patrick R. , Schloss Carrie A. , Thorne James H. , Merenlender Adina M.
Published: June 2018

Although a plethora of habitat‐connectivity plans exists, protecting and restoring connectivity through on‐the‐ground action has been slow. We identified challenges to and opportunities for connectivity conservation through a literature review of project implementation, a workshop with scientists and conservation practitioners, 3 case studies of connectivity projects, and interviews with conservation professionals. Connectivity challenges and solutions tended to be context specific, dependent on land‐ownership patterns, socioeconomic factors, and the policy framework. Successful connectivity implementation tended to be associated with development and promotion of a common vision among diverse sets of stakeholders, including nontraditional conservation actors, such as water districts and recreation departments, and with communication with partners and the public. Other factors that lead to successful implementation included undertaking empirical studies to prioritize and validate corridors and the identification of related co‐benefits of corridor projects. Engaging partners involved in land management and planning, such as nongovernmental conservation organizations, public agencies, and private landowners, is critical to effective strategy implementation. A clear regulatory framework, including unambiguous connectivity conservation mandates, would increase public resource allocation, and incentive programs are needed to promote private sector engagement. Connectivity conservation must move more rapidly from planning to implementation. We provide an evidence‐based solution composed of key elements for successful on‐the‐ground connectivity implementation. We identified the social processes necessary to advance habitat connectivity for biodiversity conservation and resilient landscapes under climate change.
The impact of stapling technique and surgeon specialism on anastomotic failure after right‐sided colorectal resection: an international multicentre, prospective audit
Authors:   the 2015 European Society of Coloproctology Collaborating Group
Published: June 2018

Aim

There is little evidence to support choice of technique and configuration for stapled anastomoses after right hemicolectomy and ileocaecal resection. This study aimed to determine the relationship between stapling technique and anastomotic failure.

Method

Any unit performing gastrointestinal surgery was invited to contribute data on consecutive adult patients undergoing right hemicolectomy or ileocolic resection to this prospective, observational, international, multicentre study. Patients undergoing stapled, side‐to‐side ileocolic anastomoses were identified and multilevel, multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to explore factors associated with anastomotic leak.

Results

One thousand three hundred and forty‐seven patients were included from 200 centres in 32 countries. The overall anastomotic leak rate was 8.3%. Upon multivariate analysis there was no difference in leak rate with use of a cutting stapler for apical closure compared with a noncutting stapler (8.4% vs 8.0%, OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.54–1.53, P = 0.72). Oversewing of the apical staple line, whether in the cutting group (7.9% vs 9.7%, OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.52–1.46, P = 0.60) or noncutting group (8.9% vs 5.7%, OR 1.40, 95% CI 0.46–4.23, P = 0.55) also conferred no benefit in terms of reducing leak rates. Surgeons reporting to be general surgeons had a significantly higher leak rate than those reporting to be colorectal surgeons (12.1% vs 7.3%, OR 1.65, 95% CI 1.04–2.64, P = 0.04).

Conclusion

This study did not identify any difference in anastomotic leak rates according to the type of stapling device used to close the apical aspect. In addition, oversewing of the anastomotic staple lines appears to confer no benefit in terms of reducing leak rates. Although general surgeons operated on patients with more high‐risk characteristics than colorectal surgeons, a higher leak rate for general surgeons which remained after risk adjustment needs further exploration.
Transboundary cooperation improves endangered species monitoring and conservation actions: A case study of the global population of Amur leopards
Authors: Vitkalova Anna V. , Feng Limin , Rybin Alexander N. , Gerber Brian D. , Miquelle Dale G. , Wang Tianming , Yang Haitao , Shevtsova Elena I. , Aramilev Vladimir V. , Ge Jianping
Published: June 2018

Political borders and natural boundaries of wildlife populations seldom coincide, often to the detriment of conservation objectives. Transnational monitoring of endangered carnivores is rare, but is necessary for accurate population monitoring and coordinated conservation policies. We investigate the benefits of collaboratively monitoring the abundance and survival of the critically endangered Amur leopard, which occurs as a single transboundary population across China and Russia. Country‐specific results overestimated abundance and were generally less precise compared to integrated monitoring estimates; the global population was similar in both years: 84 (70–108, 95% confidence interval). Uncertainty in country‐specific annual survival estimates were approximately twice the integrated estimates of 0.82 (0.69–0.91, 95% confidence limits). This collaborative effort provided a better understanding of Amur leopard population dynamics, represented a first step in building trust, and lead to cooperative agreements to coordinate conservation policies.
Cytohistological correlation of urine cytology in a tertiary centre with application of the Paris system
Authors: Rohilla Manish , Singh Priya , Rajwanshi Arvind , Gupta Nalini , Srinivasan Radhika , Dey Pranab , Kakkar Nandita
Published: June 2018

Objectives

Urine cytology has a high sensitivity in morphological recognition of high‐grade urothelial carcinoma (HGUC) as compared to low‐grade urothelial neoplasms. The Paris system (TPS) was designed to standardise the reporting of HGUC on urine cytology. We evaluated the diagnostic efficacy of urine cytology in routine practice with the cytohistological correlation and application of TPS.

Methods

A retrospective review of urine cytology reported from 2014 to 2015 was carried out with cytohistological correlation, wherever available. The cases were also recategorised according to TPS with the calculation of malignancy risk of all categories.

Results

More than 4000 specimens from 1396 patients were evaluated. Histopathology was available in 244 cases. Urine cytology had a sensitivity of 70.5%, specificity of 78.4%, with an overall diagnostic accuracy of 71.7%. The urine cytology when categorised by TPS had 0.9% unsatisfactory cases, 75.9% negative for HGUC, 8.5% atypical urothelial cells, 0.2% suspicious for HGUC, 14.1% HGUC and 0.4% cases of other malignancies. The risk of HGUC with each category of negative for HGUC, atypical, suspicious for HGUC, HGUC and other malignancy was 11.6%, 12.3%, 33.3%, 58.8% and 80%, respectively.

Conclusion

Urine cytology continues to show high diagnostic accuracy for the detection of urothelial carcinoma with a relatively high sensitivity for HGUC. TPS for reporting urine cytology defines specific criteria for diagnosing atypical and HGUC but increases the cases in the atypical category.
Mothers’ and fathers’ mind‐mindedness influences physiological emotion regulation of infants across the first year of life
Authors: Zeegers Moniek A.J. , de Vente Wieke , Nikolić Milica , Majdandžić Mirjana , Bögels Susan M. , Colonnesi Cristina
Published: June 2018

The main aim of this study was to test whether mothers’ (n = 116) and fathers’ (n = 116) mind‐mindedness predicts infants’ physiological emotion regulation (heart rate variability; HRV) across the first year of life. Three hypotheses were examined: (a) parents’ mind‐mindedness at 4 and 12 months predicts infants’ HRV at 12 months over and above infants’ initial HRV levels at 4 months, (b) mothers’ and fathers’ mind‐mindedness independently predict infant HRV, and (c) the effects of mind‐mindedness on infant HRV (partially) operate via parenting behaviour. Infants’ HRV was assessed during rest and a stranger approach. Mind‐mindedness was assessed by calculating the proportions of appropriate and non‐attuned mind‐related comments during free‐play interactions, and parenting quality was observed at 4 and 12 months in the same interactions. Path analyses showed that mothers’ appropriate mind‐related comments at 4 and 12 months predicted higher baseline HRV at 12 months, whereas mothers’ non‐attuned comments predicted lower baseline HRV at 12 months. Similar, but concurrent, relations were found for fathers’ appropriate and non‐attuned mind‐related comments and infant baseline HRV at 12 months. In addition, fathers’ appropriate mind‐related comments showed an indirect association with infant baseline HRV at 12 months via fathers’ parenting quality. With regard to infant HRV reactivity during the stranger approach, mothers’ appropriate mind‐related comments at 4 months and fathers’ non‐attuned mind‐related comments at 12 months predicted a larger HRV decline during the stranger approach at 12 months. Infants’ HRV at 4 months did not predict parents’ later mind‐mindedness. The results indicate that mothers’ and fathers’ appropriate and non‐attuned mind‐related speech uniquely impacts the development of infants’ physiological emotion regulation.
Monozygotic twin differences in school performance are stable and systematic
Authors: von Stumm Sophie , Plomin Robert
Published: June 2018

School performance is one of the most stable and heritable psychological characteristics. Notwithstanding, monozygotic twins (MZ), who have identical genotypes, differ in school performance. These MZ differences result from non‐shared environments that do not contribute to the similarity within twin pairs. Because to date few non‐shared environmental factors have been reliably associated with MZ differences in school performance, they are thought to be idiosyncratic and due to chance, suggesting that the effect of non‐shared environments on MZ differences are age‐ and trait‐specific. In a sample of 2768 MZ twin pairs, we found first that MZ differences in school performance were moderately stable from age 12 through 16, with differences at the ages 12 and 14 accounting for 20% of the variance in MZ differences at age 16. Second, MZ differences in school performance correlated positively with MZ differences across 16 learning‐related variables, including measures of intelligence, personality and school attitudes, with the twin who scored higher on one also scoring higher on the other measures. Finally, MZ differences in the 16 learning‐related variables accounted for 22% of the variance in MZ differences in school performance at age 16. These findings suggest that, unlike for other psychological domains, non‐shared environmental factors affect school performance in systematic ways that have long‐term and generalist influence. Our findings should motivate the search for non‐shared environmental factors responsible for the stable and systematic effects on children’s differences in school performance.

A video abstract of this article can be viewed at: https://youtu.be/0bw2Fl_HGq0
Questioning supports effective transmission of knowledge and increased exploratory learning in pre‐kindergarten children
Authors: Yu Yue , Landrum Asheley R. , Bonawitz Elizabeth , Shafto Patrick
Published: June 2018

How can education optimize transmission of knowledge while also fostering further learning? Focusing on children at the cusp of formal schooling (N = 180, age = 4.0–6.0 y), we investigate learning after direct instruction by a knowledgeable teacher, after questioning by a knowledgeable teacher, and after questioning by a naïve informant. Consistent with previous findings, instruction by a knowledgeable teacher allows effective information transmission but at the cost of exploration and further learning. Critically, we find a dual benefit for questioning by a knowledgeable teacher: Such pedagogical questioning both effectively transmits knowledge and fosters exploration and further learning, regardless of whether the question was directed to the child or directed to a third party and overheard by the child. These effects are not observed when the same question is asked by a naïve informant. We conclude that a teacher's choice of pedagogical method may differentially influence learning through their choices of how, and how not, to present evidence, with implications for transmission of knowledge and self‐directed discovery.

A video abstract of this article can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJXH2b65wL8
Dorsoventral differences in cAMP levels and correlated changes in the subcellular distribution of the PKA catalytic domain, provide further evidence that PKA signaling coordinates dorsoventral patterning of the otocyst
Authors: Ohta Sho , Schoenwolf Gary C.
Published: June 2018

Dorsoventral (DV) patterning of the otocyst gives rise to formation of the morphologically and functionally complex membranous labyrinth composed of unique dorsal and ventral sensory organs. DV patterning results from extracellular signaling by secreted growth factors, which presumably form reciprocal concentration gradients across the DV axis of the otocyst. Previous work suggested a model in which two important growth factors, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and SHH, undergo crosstalk through an intersecting pathway to coordinate DV patterning. cAMP‐dependent protein kinase A (PKA) lies at the heart of this pathway. Here, we provide further evidence that PKA signaling coordinates DV patterning, showing that both BMPs and SHH regulate cAMP levels, with BMPs increasing levels in the dorsal otocyst and SHH decreasing levels in the ventral otocyst. This, in turn, results in regional changes in the subcellular distribution of the catalytic domain of PKA, as well as DV regulation of PKA activity, increasing it dorsally and decreasing it ventrally. These new results fill an important gap in our previous understanding of how ligand signaling acts intracellularly during otocyst DV patterning and early morphogenesis, thereby initiating the series of events leading to formation of the inner ear sensory organs that function in balance and hearing.
Feasibility and effectiveness of percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty under echocardiographic guidance only
Authors: Liu Yao , Guo Gai‐Li , Wen Bin , Wang Shouzheng , Ou‐Yang Wen‐Bin , Xie Yongquan , Pan Xiang‐Bin
Published: June 2018

Objective

Percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty (PBMV) is the treatment of choice in patients with isolated mitral stenosis. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of PBMV under echocardiography guidance only of isolated mitral stenosis (MS).

Methods

From October 2016 to Dec 2017, 20 consecutive patients with severe MS underwent PBMV with echocardiography as the only imaging modality at a single center. Outpatient follow‐up including chest radiography, electrocardiography, and transthoracic echocardiography was conducted at 1, 3,6, and 12 months after the procedure.

Results

All 20 patients successfully underwent PBMV under echocardiography guidance without radiation and contrast agent. Among them, 2 patients were pregnant, 5 had chronic renal failure, and 1 had history of allergy to contrast. Mitral transvalvular pressure gradient measured at catheterization dropped from 13.35 ± 2.85 mm Hg to 5.10 ± 1.17 mm Hg (P < .01). Mitral valve area increased from 0.82 ± 0.10 cm2 pre‐PBMV to 1.88 ± 0.24 cm2 post‐PBMV (P < .01). Mean balloon diameter was 26.63 ± 0.93 mm. Mild mitral regurgitation developed in 6 patients. Mean follow‐up duration was 6.27 ± 3.12 months. At last follow‐up, mitral valve area remained high (1.71 ± 0.14 cm2) and mean transmitral pressure gradient low (6.07 ± 1.03 mm Hg). No pericardial effusion or peripheral vascular complications occurred.

Conclusion

In this small experience, PBMV could be successfully performed under only echocardiography guidance and appeared safe and effective while avoiding radiation and contrast agent use.
Collapsimycopappus: A new leaf pathogen with mycopappus‐like propagules in Mycosphaerellaceae
Authors: Hashimoto Akira , Sasaki Yukie , Harada Yukio , Tanaka Kazuaki
Published: June 2018

A previously undescribed mycopappus‐like fungus associated with large zonate leaf spot disease of Styrax obassia was found in Japan. Single‐propagule isolation of the fungus from necrotic areas of the diseased leaves yielded four pure cultures. Pathogenicity tests of the fungus were performed on potted S. obassia plants. Leaves were wounded with a sterilized needle and inoculated with mycelial agar. Development of necrotic zones was observed within 4 months. Numerous propagules appeared on the necrotic areas, and two strains of the same fungus were isolated again. The morphology of the pathogen was described, and its phylogeny was analysed based on the sequences of nuclear rDNA ITS, LSU regions and the rpb2 genes. Twenty‐four sequences were generated from six strains. Phylogenetic analyses indicated that the pathogen was closely related to the members of Mycosphaerellaceae, but was distinct in having brown propagules with hyphal appendages that collapsed at maturity and divided into part spores. Therefore, we propose Collapsimycopappus as a new genus to accommodate a single species, C. styracis.