bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of the ultrasonographic ‘whirlpool sign’ in intestinal volvulus: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Enyuma Callistus O. A. , Adam Ahmed , Aigbodion Sunday J. , McDowall Jared , Gerber Louis , Buchanan Sean , Laher Abdullah E.
Published: May 2018

Background

Intestinal volvulus is a potentially life‐threatening condition that occurs when loops of bowel twist around its supporting mesentery and associated vasculature. Clinicians often rely on various radiological investigations for prompt diagnosis to avoid complications such as bowel infarction. This review assesses the clinical reliability of the ultrasonographic whirlpool sign (WS) in the diagnosis of intestinal volvulus.

Methods

In adherence with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐analyses) statement, a systematic search of BMJ Best Practice, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, EMBASE, Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases was performed (August 2017), using relevant search terms. Selected studies were ranked for quality and relevance using the CASP (Critical Appraisal Skills Program) tool.

Results

Sixteen articles (1640 participants) were assessed. The mean and median sample size was 102.5 (SD ± 192.23) and 28 (range 7–770), respectively. The WS was positive in 212 of 255 (83.1%) patients with intestinal volvulus. Meta‐analysis of the studies that provided sufficient data resulted in a pooled sensitivity and specificity of 87.42% (95% confidence interval (CI): 81.05–92.25) and 98.63% (95% CI: 97.88–99.18), respectively, with an estimated summary effect of 5.28 (95% CI: 4.47–6.08, P < 0.001). There was negligible inter‐study heterogeneity, which was suggested by an I2 statistic of 0% (95% CI: 0.00–76.34) and a τ2 parameter of 0 (95% CI: 0.00–5.35).

Conclusion

Though the pooled sensitivity was less than ideal (87.42%), this review and meta‐analysis nevertheless supports the reliability of the ultrasonographic WS as an acceptable indicator of intestinal volvulus.
Long‐Term Health Implications of Students’ Friendship Formation during the Transition to University
Authors: Klaiber Patrick , Whillans Ashley V. , Chen Frances S.
Published: May 2018

Background

The transition to university is a major life change wherein young adults’ primary support system shifts from the family to peers. Can change in social integration (operationalised as number of friends) during the first term at university contribute to students’ health years later, and if so, how?

Methods

The friendship formation of 67 students at a large Canadian university was assessed during their first term. These data were used to predict self‐reported health and health behaviors (physical exercise, diet, tobacco, alcohol and marijuana consumption) at a follow‐up assessment that occurred near the end of their time at university (2 or 3 years later).

Results

Linear regression models showed that students who made more friends in their first term reported better health and a healthier diet at the follow‐up (2 or 3 years later). Perceived social support at the follow‐up mediated the relationship between friendship formation and self‐reported health but not diet.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence for both (1) an indirect effect of friendship formation on self‐reported health via perceived social support, and (2) a direct effect of friendship formation on a healthy diet. Broadly, these results highlight the importance of friendship formation and social integration for the long‐term well‐being of university students.
Follow‐up magnetic resonance imaging/3D‐magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis: challenging for experts to interpret
Authors: Zenouzi R. , Liwinski T. , Yamamura J. , Weiler‐Normann C. , Sebode M. , Keller S. , Lohse A. W. , Schramm C. ,   the International PSC Study Group (IPSCSG)
Published: May 2018

Background

In patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis follow‐up magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is performed by many centres, particularly for the early detection of biliary malignancies and strictures. Clinically meaningful MRI‐based definitions of primary sclerosing cholangitis related complications are, however, lacking.

Aim

To investigate how primary sclerosing cholangitis experts interpret follow‐up MRI/MRCP with a focus on conclusions that may impact clinical decision‐making in primary sclerosing cholangitis.

Methods

Within the International Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Study Group, an online survey on 16 real‐life primary sclerosing cholangitis cases including clinical and biochemical information as well as a T2‐weighted liver MRI/3D‐MRCP was conducted. The interpretation of images and subsequent recommendations were assessed using a multiple‐choice questionnaire. An inter‐rater reliability calculation (Fleiss′ kappa) was performed and factors potentially affecting the interpretation of magnetic resonance images were analysed using generalised linear mixed‐effect models.

Results

Forty‐four members/associates of the International Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Study Group (median experience in the care of primary sclerosing cholangitis patients: 14 years) completed the survey. The MRI interpretation significantly varied among the participants. The lowest agreement was found with respect to the indication to perform subsequent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP; Κ = 0.12, 95%CI 0.11‐0.14). Elevated total bilirubin was the variable with the strongest effect on the rate of suspected dominant strictures, cholangiocarcinoma or ERCP recommendations. Liver cirrhosis did not prevent participants from recommending ERCP. Overall, the survey participants′ recommendations contrasted the real‐life management and outcome.

Conclusions

In primary sclerosing cholangitis, the interpretation of follow‐up MRI/3D‐MRCP significantly varies even among experts and seems to be primarily affected by bilirubin levels. Generally accepted MRI‐based definitions of primary sclerosing cholangitis‐related complications are urgently needed.
Union's inspiration: Universal health care and the essential partiality of solidarity
Authors: Derpmann Simon
Published: May 2018

Solidarity is commonly invoked in the justification of public health care. This is understandable, as calls for and appeals to solidarity are effective in the mobilization of unison action and the willingness to incur sacrifices for others. However, the reference to solidarity as a moral notion requires caution, as there is no agreement on the meaning of solidarity. The article argues that the reference to solidarity as a normative notion is relevant to health‐related moral claims, but that it does not provide a convincing foundation of claims to universal health care. References to universal solidarity obliterate an important distinction between those moral demands that are founded on principles like justice, recognition, or humanity, and those demands that stem from partisan relations in communities. While there is no ‘separate essence’ of solidarity that could be referred to in order to argue for the conceptual necessity of solidarity's partiality, some features may reasonably be stipulated as being essential to solidarity with a view to its systematic function within moral philosophy. The normative and motivational force of the ties invoked by solidarity is particularly relevant when basic moral demands are not met, and societies are in need of significant forms of communal relatedness.
Virtual collaborative gaming as social skills training for high‐functioning autistic children
Authors: Ke Fengfeng , Moon Jewoong
Published: May 2018

Using OpenSimulator, we constructed a 3D virtual playground that affords competition‐themed social gaming, role‐play gaming and design‐themed architectural gaming among high‐functioning autistic (HFA) children. A mixed‐method, multi‐case study was conducted to examine the association between the game task and setting features, learners' participation patterns, and their game‐based social interaction performance. Eight 10–14‐year‐old HFA children participated in the study. Data were collected via screen recording and observation of participants' gaming actions and reactions. We conducted a behavioral analysis with the recorded social interaction performance of participants in the virtual gaming sessions. The study found that virtual reality‐based gameplay promoted the social interaction performance of HFA children. The study findings also suggested that gameplay should be adapted based on the competencies and in‐situ reactions of learners.
Leukodystrophies due to astroyctic dysfunction
Authors: Bugiani Marianna , Breur Marjolein
Published: May 2018

Leukodystrophies are genetically determined disorders due to defects in any structural components of the brain white matter. This mini‐symposium presents a selection of leukodystrophies due to astrocytic dysfunction, the astrocytopathies. Examples are provided of astrocytopathies due to defects in astrocyte‐specific proteins and in which astrocytes play a major role in the pathophysiology. Knowledge on the disease mechanisms underlying these leukodystrophies also provides information how loss of physiologic functions and gain of detrimental functions in astrocytes leads to degeneration of the white matter.
Microscopic colitis: a population‐based case series over a 9‐year period in Northern Ireland
Authors: Moore M. , Coleman H. G. , Allen P. B. , Loughrey M. B.
Published: May 2018

Aim

We report clinicopathological experience of microscopic colitis (MC) in a population‐based case series in Northern Ireland over a 9‐year period.

Method

The pathology laboratory information system within a large teaching centre serving two healthcare trusts was interrogated for cases coded between 2008 and 2016 as collagenous colitis (CC) or lymphocytic colitis (LC). Demographic, clinical and follow‐up information was collected from healthcare records.

Results

A total of 326 new diagnoses of MC were identified, an average annual incidence of 6.7 per 100 000 population. The average annual incidence of CC and LC was 5.0 and 1.7 per 100 000 population, respectively. For coding reasons it is likely that LC data are incomplete. Of 191 cases diagnosed by specialist gastrointestinal pathologists, 141 patients had CC and 50 patients had LC. Both CC and LC predominantly involved women aged 60–79. Some 15% demonstrated endoscopic abnormalities. Endoscopic sampling protocols varied widely: 30% of individuals with CC and 32% of those with LC had the right and left colon sampled separately, with histology concordant in 95% of cases. Of the 191 cases, only one case (of LC) was refractory to treatment; the rest exhibited a clinical response. Only 35 patients had follow‐up endoscopy and biopsies, and three of each diagnosis showed persistent disease on histology.

Conclusion

Overall, CC and LC are benign conditions with similar demographics, clinical associations, management and outcomes. Separate sampling of the right and left colon is advised at colonoscopy if this diagnosis is being considered, but left colonic sampling, which can be performed at flexible sigmoidoscopy, will diagnose the vast majority of cases.
Irreplaceability and the intentionality of sexual arousal
Authors: Hershfield Jeffrey
Published: May 2018

Philosophers writing about the intentionality of sexual arousal have generally been of two minds. One approach likens it to an appetite that aims at a distinctive type of gratification. A second treats it as the attempt, through a process of embodiment, to unite with a transcendental self. The first model lays stress on the fungibility of the object of sexual desire: the body and certain of its parts. The latter sees arousal as burdened with impossible satisfaction conditions based on an extravagant metaphysics of the self. In this paper, I defend an account that emphasizes the cooperative element in arousal and assimilates its content to that of other such social activities. This preserves the central place of the self in the intentionality of arousal in a way that is metaphysically benign and that ultimately avoids treating sex as a sui generis form of human interaction.
On the notch sensitivity of flax fibre metal laminates under static and fatigue loading
Authors: Kandare E. , Yoo S. , Chevali V.S. , Khatibi A.A.
Published: May 2018

Damage progression and failure characteristics of open‐hole flax fibre aluminium laminate (flax‐FML) specimens subjected to quasi‐static tensile or tension‐tension fatigue loading were experimentally investigated. Notched and unnotched flax‐FML composites exhibited brittle fracture with little or no fibre pull‐out and minimal delamination at the aluminium/adhesive interface. The flax‐FMLs were tested to failure under tension‐tension fatigue loading conditions (Rratio of 0.1; frequency of 10 Hz; applied fatigue stresses ranging between 30% and 80% of the respective ultimate tensile strength values). The fatigue cycles to failure decreased with the increase in the applied fatigue stress and hole diameter. A phenomenological modelling technique was developed to evaluate the fatigue life of an open‐hole flax‐FML composite. Fatigue tests on specimens subjected to a maximum load equivalent to 35% of the respective tensile failure strength were interrupted at around 85% of the corresponding fatigue life. The accumulated fatigue damage in these specimens was characterised using X‐ray computed tomography. For benchmarking purposes, the fatigue performance and related damage progression in the flax‐FML composite were compared with those of the glass‐FMLs.
Why Springs Bubble: A Framework for Gas Discharge in Groundwater
Authors: Agnew Robert J. , Halihan Todd
Published: May 2018

The mechanisms leading to the formation of bubbles in springs and wells have received minimal attention beyond causation. Free‐phase gas quantification provides insight into a range of topics, from hazards that need to be managed to the economic value of soda waters. The presence of free‐phase gas or vapor bubbles in groundwater may provide valuable information about the subsurface flow system. Additionally, free‐phase gas or vapor bubbles may strip dissolved gasses from solution and introduce error into the assessment of gasses in springs, affecting analyses such as groundwater dating techniques. Similar to Meinzer's (1927) classification of springs by discharge rate, this paper proposes a framework for discussing free‐phase gas and bubble phenomenon in groundwater to organize literature and foster future research. The naming, description, and categorization of free‐phase gas or bubbles in groundwater provided in this review use seven common bubble manifestations or facies. These facies are based upon the processes in which the groundwater is charged with a gaseous species and the processes that bring the gas out of solution. Gas bubbles found in groundwater rarely occur as a single gas; therefore, these facies may overlap, but the proposed structure provides a useful framework. A glossary of bubble terms is provided to assist in clarity of describing free‐phase gas phenomena.
High‐throughput sequencing for diagnosing platelet disorders: lessons learned from exploring the causes of bleeding disorders
Authors: Heremans J. , Freson K.
Published: May 2018

Inherited platelet disorders (IPDs) are a heterogeneous group of disorders caused by multiple genetic defects. Obtaining a molecular diagnosis for IPD patients using a phenotype‐ and laboratory‐based approach is complex, expensive, time‐consuming, and not always successful. High‐throughput sequencing (HTS) methods offer a genotype‐based approach to facilitate molecular diagnostics. Such approaches are expected to decrease time to diagnosis, increase the diagnostic rate, and they have provided novel insights into the genotype‐phenotype correlation of IPDs. Some of these approaches have also focused on the discovery of novel genes and unexpected molecular pathways which modulate megakaryocyte and platelet biology were discovered. A growing number of genetic defects underlying IPDs have been identified and we will here provide an overview of the diverse molecular players. Screening of these genes will deliver a genetic diagnosis for about 40%‐50% of the IPDs patients and we will compare different HTS applications that have been developed. A brief focus on gene variant interpretation and classification in a diagnostic setting will be given. Although it is true that successes in diagnostics and gene discovery have been reached, a large fraction of patients still remains without a conclusive diagnosis. In these patients, the sum of non‐diagnostic variants in known genes or in potential novel genes might only be proven informative in future studies with larger patient cohorts and by data sharing among the diverse genome medicine initiatives. Finally, we still do not understand the role of the non‐coding genome space for IPDs.
Image processing and machine learning in the morphological analysis of blood cells
Authors: Rodellar J. , Alférez S. , Acevedo A. , Molina A. , Merino A.
Published: May 2018

Introduction

This review focuses on how image processing and machine learning can be useful for the morphological characterization and automatic recognition of cell images captured from peripheral blood smears.

Methods

The basics of the 3 core elements (segmentation, quantitative features, and classification) are outlined, and recent literature is discussed. Although red blood cells are a significant part of this context, this study focuses on malignant lymphoid cells and blast cells.

Results

There is no doubt that these technologies may help the cytologist to perform efficient, objective, and fast morphological analysis of blood cells. They may also help in the interpretation of some morphological features and may serve as learning and survey tools.

Conclusion

Although research is still needed, it is important to define screening strategies to exploit the potential of image‐based automatic recognition systems integrated in the daily routine of laboratories along with other analysis methodologies.
Present status and perspective of laboratory hematology in Japan: On the standardization of blood cell morphology including myelodysplasia: On behalf of the Japanese Society for Laboratory Hematology
Authors: Tohyama K.
Published: May 2018

The Japanese Society for Laboratory Hematology (JSLH) was launched in 2000 and has been developed by a mutual collaboration of hematologists, medical technologists, and the companies involved in hematological laboratory testing. The aim of JSLH is the progress and development of laboratory hematology by academic conferences, periodic publication of academic journal, training and education (in the meeting, the journal, or the website), promotion of the standardization of laboratory hematology, and certification of the laboratory hematology specialists. Among 3 specialized committees organized for the standardization of laboratory hematology, the standardization committee on blood cell morphology has been dealing with the various projects on peripheral/bone marrow blood cells and normal/abnormal morphology. Another independent organization, the Japanese National Research Group on idiopathic bone marrow failure syndromes (BMF), has raised the importance of the dysplasia of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and has been conducting the prospective registration, central review, and follow‐up study of MDS. This group recently proposed the grading system for diagnostic accuracy of MDS, and the detailed procedure of morphological diagnosis of MDS is presented in the specialized color atlas with typical photographs of various dysplasia. JSLH has also approved the grading system for diagnostic accuracy of MDS and adopted this standardized diagnostic system to the educational item for certification of the laboratory hematology specialists, aiming at a nationwidely expanding morphological evaluation of myelodysplasia. Further and significant progress in the standardization of blood cell morphology will be expected in Japan through the activity of JSLH.
Preventive effect of nicorandil on contrast‐induced nephropathy: a meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Li Shuang , Wang Lin , Liu Yucai , Hu Qiang
Published: May 2018

Background

Contrast‐induced nephropathy (CIN) is a common and serious side‐effect in patients undergoing angiocardiography or radiological procedures.

Aim

To assess comprehensively the impact of nicorandil on CIN, by gathering currently available data.

Methods

We searched three main electric databases (Medline/PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) from inception through April 2017.

Results

Four randomised controlled trials involving 730 participants were included. Pooled estimate showed that nicorandil significantly reduced the rate of CIN by 64% (risk ratio = 0.36, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.22–0.61, I2 = 31%), compared with control. Nicorandil also significantly decreased serum creatinine level compared with control (mean difference (MD) = −2.70%, 95% CI: −5.21 to −0.20 for percentage change; and standard MD = −0.30, 95% CI: −0.48 to −0.13 for absolute change from baseline). In comparison to control, nicorandil was associated with a non‐significant trend towards decreased cystatin C (MD = −2.18%, 95% CI: −4.39 to 0.02 for percentage change; and MD = −0.08 mg/dL, 95% CI: −0.24 to 0.09 mg/dL for absolute change from baseline).

Conclusion

Nicorandil can protect renal function and reduce the incidence of CIN in patients exposed to contrast medium. Nicorandil is an additional option in preventing CIN.
Upconversion luminescence enhancement of NaYF4:Yb3+,Er3+ nanocrystals induced by the surface plasmon resonance of nonstoichiometric WO2.72 semiconductor
Authors: Zhang Hailu , Yang Zhengwen , Ma Yingjin , Qiu Jianbei , Song Zhiguo
Published: May 2018

Upconversion luminescence of rare‐earth ions doped nanoparticles can be enhanced by the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of noble metals nanoparticles, which was extensively investigated. The semiconductor nanomaterials such as the WO2.72 exhibited the tunable LSPR, which provide the possibility for the luminescence enhancement of upconversion nanoparticles. In this work, the urchin‐like WO2.72 was successfully prepared by solvothermal method, exhibiting the LSPR in the near infrared region. The influence of LSPR of WO2.72 on the upconversion luminescence of NaYF4:Yb3+,Er3+ nanoparticles was investigated firstly. The 525, 542, and 660 nm upconversion luminescence of NaYF4: Yb3+,Er3+ nanoparticles was increased by the 10, 8, and 12 factors, respectively, which was from the enhanced excitation field induced by the WO2.72 film.
Between dependence and deprivation: The interlocking nature of land alienation in Tanzania
Authors: Bluwstein Jevgeniy , Lund Jens Friis , Askew Kelly , Stein Howard , Noe Christine , Odgaard Rie , Maganga Faustin , Engström Linda
Published: May 2018

Studies of accumulation by dispossession in the Global South tend to focus on individual sectors, for example, large‐scale agriculture or nature conservation. Yet smallholder farmers and pastoralists are affected by multiple processes of land alienation. Drawing on the case of Tanzania, we illustrate the analytical purchase of a comprehensive examination of dynamics of land alienation across multiple sectors. To begin with, processes of land alienation through investments in agriculture, mining, conservation, and tourism dovetail with a growing social differentiation and class formation. These dynamics generate unequal patterns of land deprivation and accumulation that evolve in a context of continued land dependency for the vast majority of the rural population. Consequently, land alienation engenders responses by individuals and communities seeking to maintain control over their means of production. These responses include migration, land tenure formalization, and land transactions, that propagate across multiple localities and scales, interlocking with and further reinforcing the effects of land alienation. Various localized processes of primitive accumulation contribute to a scramble for land in the aggregate, providing justifications for policies that further drive land alienation.
Identity Threat Assessment and Prediction
Authors: Zaiss Jim , Nokhbeh Zaeem Razieh , Barber K. Suzanne
Published: May 2018

Identity theft and related threats are increasingly common occurrences. This paper is an overview of the Identity Threat Assessment and Prediction (ITAP) project. It describes our use of news stories to gather raw data about incidents of identity theft, fraud, and abuse. Through these news stories, we seek to determine the methods and resources used to carry out these crimes; the vulnerabilities exploited; and the consequences of these incidents. The ITAP model is a large and continually growing, structured repository of such information. There are currently about 5,000 incidents captured in the model. To this body of information, we apply a variety of analytical tools that enable us to show and compare threats, losses, and trends. We discover notable and sometimes surprising results. A goal of this project is to be able to predict future threats, and to provide some concrete guidance on how to avoid them.
Conceptualizing Childbearing Ambivalence: A Social and Dynamic Perspective
Authors: Sennott Christie , Yeatman Sara
Published: May 2018

Childbearing ambivalence is often conceptualized as a state of conflicting desires about having a child that is characteristic of particular individuals or life stages. This study proposes that childbearing ambivalence is dynamic and situational, resulting from the multiple sociocultural frames surrounding childbearing. Using eight waves of prospective data from a population‐based sample of young adults in Malawi, results show that 41% of women and 48% of men are ambivalent about childbearing at some point in the 2.5‐year study. There is limited evidence that ambivalence is related to individual sociodemographic or psychosocial characteristics aside from gender; rather, ambivalence is tied to life course markers such as school enrollment and age. In addition, life course transitions and changes in relationships, health, and economic factors are associated with the onset of ambivalence, supporting the theory that ambivalence is a dynamic state that men and women frequently pass through as their lives and circumstances change.
Effect of Surface Modification on In‐Depth Transformations and Flexural Strength of Zirconia Ceramics
Authors: Wongkamhaeng Kan , Dawson Deborah V. , Holloway Julie A. , Denry Isabelle
Published: May 2018

Purpose

Chairside surface adjustments of zirconia dental restorations enhance the toughening stress‐induced tetragonal‐to‐monoclinic phase transformation and domain reorientation by ferro‐elastic domain switching (FDS), but also trigger subsurface damage, which could compromise long‐term clinical performance. The purpose of this study was to assess the depth of phase transformation, associated FDS, and flexural strength of dental zirconia (BruxZir HT 2.0), after chairside surface treatments.

Materials and Methods

Square specimens were sectioned from CAD/CAM blocks and sintered according to manufacturer's recommendations (n= 30). They were left as‐sintered (AS; control), air abraded with fine (AAF) or coarse (AAC) alumina particles, ground (G) or ground and polished (GP). Roughness was measured by profilometry. Crystalline phases were investigated by grazing incidence X‐ray diffraction (GIXRD) (n= 3). GIXRD data were fit using semi‐log regression protocols to assess transformation depth and extent of FDS. The mean biaxial flexural strength was measured according to ISO 6872. Subsurface damage was assessed from SEM images using a bonded polished interface configuration. Flaw distribution was assessed by Weibull analysis. Results were analyzed by Kruskal‐Wallis with Tukey's adjustment for multiple comparisons (p< 0.05).

Results

Air‐abraded and ground groups exhibited higher mean surface roughness than control. AAF group exhibited the highest flexural strength (1662.6 ± 202.6 MPa) with flaw size (5.9 ± 1.8 μm) smaller than transformation (14.5 ± 1.2 μm) or FDS depth (19.3 ± 1.1 μm), followed by GP group (1567.2 ± 209.7 MPa) with smallest FDS depth (9.3 ± 2.0 μm) and flaw size (2.6 ± 1.8 μm), but withoutm‐phase. AAC group (1371.4 ± 147.6 MPa) had the largest flaw size (40.3 ± 20.3 μm), transformation depth (47.2 ± 3.0 μm) and FDS depth (41.2 ± 2.2 μm). G group (1357.0 ± 196.7 MPa) had the smallest transformation depth (8.6 ± 1.5 μm), and mean FDS depth (19.8 ± 3.7 μm) and flaw size (18.6 ± 3.1 μm). AAC and AAF exhibited the highest Weibull modulus (11.2 ± 0.4 and 9.8 ± 0.3 μm, respectively).

Conclusions

Variations in mean biaxial flexural strength were explained by the balance between the depth of toughening mechanisms (phase transformation and FDS) and subsurface damage. AAF and GP groups were the most efficient surface adjustments in promoting the highest mean biaxial flexural strength.
The strength of density‐dependent mortality is contingent on climate and seedling size
Authors: Song Xiaoyang , Johnson Daniel J. , Cao Min , Umaña Maria Natalia , Deng Xiaobao , Yang Xiaofei , Zhang Wenfu , Yang Jie
Published: May 2018

Questions

Density‐dependent processes may promote species diversity in plant communities. Here, we tested whether seedling survival was density‐dependent and varied by seedling size, species and climatic factors.

Location

Tropical rain forest, Xishuangbanna, southwest China.

Methods

Generalized linear mixed‐effects models were used to examine seedling survival (232 tree species) across 9 years of seedling census data from a 20‐ha tropical forest dynamics plot. Our predictor variables were conspecific and heterospecific neighbour density, size of the seedling and annual variation in climatic factors.

Results

We found significant negative effects of conspecific tree density, but positive effects of heterospecific seedling density on the survival of tree seedlings in this plot. In general, conspecific negative density dependence (CNDD) was observed most frequently for large size classes of seedlings (≥20‐cm high), while heterospecific positive density dependence (HPDD) was similar at all size classes. CNDD for large seedlings was stronger during warm years, and HPDD for large seedlings was stronger during dry years.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that the strength of density dependence varied through time, and this strength was influenced by water availability and temperature. Our results highlight the potential for changes in species composition and species co‐existence that could result from increasing temperature‐strengthening CNDD effects and decreasing precipitation strengthening HPDD effects.
Representing Immigrants: The Role of Lawyers in Immigration Bond Hearings
Authors: Ryo Emily
Published: May 2018

Do immigration lawyers matter, and if so, how? Drawing on a rich source of audio recording data, this study addresses these questions in the context of U.S. immigration bond hearings—a critical stage in the removal process for noncitizens who have been apprehended by U.S. immigration officials. First, my regression analysis using a matched sample of legally represented and unrepresented detainees shows that represented detainees have significantly higher odds of being granted bond. Second, I explore whether legal representation affects judicial efficiency and find no evidence of such a relationship. Third, I examine procedural and substantive differences between represented and unrepresented hearings. My analysis shows no differences in the judges' procedural behaviors, but significant differences in the detainees' level and type of courtroom advocacy. Represented detainees are more likely to submit documents, to present affirmative arguments for release, and to offer legally relevant arguments. Surprisingly, however, I find no evidence that these activities explain the positive effect of legal representation on hearing outcomes. These findings underscore the need to investigate not only what lawyers do in the courtroom, but also less quantifiable factors such as the quality of their advocacy, the nature of their relationship to other courtroom actors, and the potential signaling function of their presence in the courtroom.
Ambivalent Legal Mobilization: Perceptions of Justice and the Use of the Tutela in Colombia
Authors: Taylor Whitney K.
Published: May 2018

This article explores the relationship between legal consciousness and legal mobilization in the context of constitutional rights in Colombia. Citizens report extremely low confidence in the state and the judiciary, yet hundreds of thousands of Colombians make constitutional rights claims through theacción de tutelaprocedure each year. Why does profound skepticism of the ability of the judiciary to provide justice and fair treatment seem to coexist with high levels of use of the legal system? How do perspectives on rights and the legal system relate to observed mobilization of the law? Drawing on 74 interviews and an original 310-person survey, this article develops legal consciousness theory, identifying the specific beliefs that encourage or discourage individuals to turn to the courts to make claims to their rights. In the Colombian case, understandings of law and the state encourage the use of the tutela procedure, not due to the realizable promise of the state to protect rights or the majestic power of the law, but because the tutela is understood to be the only mechanism through which citizens can access their rights. In other words, citizens turn to the courts because there is no other alternative.
“When They Come for You”: Legal Mobilization in New Authoritarian Russia
Authors: van der Vet Freek
Published: May 2018

As of 2012, the Russian State Duma passed a string of repressive laws on nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), surveillance, and high treason. Under this “new authoritarian” regime, a growing number of Russians are investigated by the security services or put on trial for high treason. NGOs face selective prosecution and surprise inspections. While we know how lawyers use legal mobilization in democratic regimes where they can expect courts to be fair, legal mobilization remains understudied in regimes moving toward authoritarianism, where authorities pass repressive laws but enforce them erratically. Drawing on interviews with Russian lawyers, this article examines how lawyers represent two victim groups of state coercion: Russians under investigation for treason and prosecuted human rights NGOs. By examining how lawyers make strategic choices while coping with unfair courts, the random enforcement of laws, and shrinking resources, this article argues that state coercion does not deter lawyers from legal mobilization at domestic courts and the European Court of Human Rights. Instead, repressive laws push lawyers to reinvent their everyday practices to counter repressive legislation and conviction bias in the criminal justice system.
Effectiveness of breastfeeding interventions delivered to fathers in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A systematic review
Authors: Tadesse Kidane , Zelenko Oksana , Mulugeta Afework , Gallegos Danielle
Published: May 2018

Adequate support for lactating mothers is crucial to improve the rates of early initiation, exclusive, and continued breastfeeding. Maternal breastfeeding intention and ongoing breastfeeding duration are strongly predicted by their partners' breastfeeding beliefs. Partner support has a significant effect on improving rates of any and exclusive breastfeeding, when compared with professional support, particularly in low‐income populations. This systematic review investigates the effectiveness of breastfeeding interventions targeting fathers in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC). A systematic literature search was undertaken on Medline (EBSCOhost), PsycInfo, CINAHL, and Scopus databases and via manual searching. Inclusion criteria were experimental or quasiexperimental designs targeting fathers from LMIC, which measured either breastfeeding initiation, breastfeeding exclusivity, or duration of breastfeeding as the main outcomes. No time restriction was put in place, and all articles were published in English. The quality of selected papers was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool. A total of 8 articles were included from 6 interventions: 2 quasiexperimental and 4 randomized control trials. All interventions involved breastfeeding education targeting fathers; 2 were given only to fathers, and 4 delivered to both fathers and mothers. Among these interventions, 2 measured both early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding; one exclusive breastfeeding only; one exclusive breastfeeding, knowledge, and attitudes; one exclusive breastfeeding and knowledge; and one breastfeeding, continued breastfeeding, and awareness. Across all interventions, breastfeeding education showed significant improvement in breastfeeding outcomes in the intervention compared with the control groups. In summary, breastfeeding education interventions targeting fathers in LMIC are effective in improving early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, and continued breastfeeding. Thus, breastfeeding promotion should consider the education and involvement of fathers in the intervention.
Relationship between maternal depression symptoms and child weight outcomes in Latino farmworker families
Authors: Marshall Sarah A. , Ip Edward H. , Suerken Cynthia K. , Arcury Thomas A. , Saldana Santiago , Daniel Stephanie S. , Quandt Sara A.
Published: May 2018

This study sought to characterize depressive symptoms among mothers in Latino farmworker families, determine if maternal depression increases children's risk of obesity, and ascertain whether relevant risk factors such as physical activity, diet, and feeding style mediate this relationship. Mothers from 248 families completed the 10‐item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale 9 times over a 2‐year period. Four distinct patterns were used to describe mothers: few symptoms, moderate episodic symptoms, severe episodic symptoms, and chronic symptoms. Approximately two‐thirds of women experienced moderate symptoms of depression at least once. Children of mothers fitting each pattern were compared. At the end of the study, children of mothers with severe episodic and chronic symptoms were significantly more likely to be overweight and obese than children of mothers with few symptoms (p < .05). After controlling for covariates, differences in weight status for children of mothers with severe episodic symptoms remained significant. Children of mothers with either moderate episodic or chronic symptoms were fed in a less responsive fashion (p < .05), and children of chronically symptomatic mothers had lower diet quality (p < .01). Although nonresponsive feeding has been linked to childhood obesity, in this analysis, feeding style did not mediate the relationship between maternal depression and diet quality. Elevated levels of depressive symptoms are common in this population, and those symptoms, especially when severe or chronic in nature, may increase children's risk of obesity. Additional research is needed to characterize the pathways through which maternal depression influences children's weight.
Findings from a cluster randomised trial of unconditional cash transfers in Niger
Authors: Sibson Victoria L. , Grijalva‐Eternod Carlos S. , Noura Garba , Lewis Julia , Kladstrup Kwanli , Haghparast‐Bidgoli Hassan , Skordis‐Worrall Jolene , Colbourn Tim , Morrison Joanna , Seal Andrew J.
Published: May 2018

Unconditional cash transfers (UCTs) are used as a humanitarian intervention to prevent acute malnutrition, despite a lack of evidence about their effectiveness. In Niger, UCT and supplementary feeding are given during the June–September “lean season,” although admissions of malnourished children to feeding programmes may rise from March/April. We hypothesised that earlier initiation of the UCT would reduce the prevalence of global acute malnutrition (GAM) in children 6–59 months old in beneficiary households and at population level. We conducted a 2‐armed cluster‐randomised controlled trial in which the poorest households received either the standard UCT (4 transfers between June and September) or a modified UCT (6 transfers from April); both providing 130,000 FCFA/£144 in total. Eligible individuals (pregnant and lactating women and children 6–<24 months old) in beneficiary households in both arms also received supplementary food between June and September. We collected data in March/April and October/November 2015. The modified UCT plus 4 months supplementary feeding did not reduce the prevalence of GAM compared with the standard UCT plus 4 months supplementary feeding (adjusted odds ratios 1.09 (95% CI [0.77, 1.55], p = 0.630) and 0.93 (95% CI [0.58, 1.49], p = 0.759) among beneficiaries and the population, respectively). More beneficiaries receiving the modified UCT plus supplementary feeding reported adequate food access in April and May (p < 0.001) but there was no difference in endline food security between arms. In both arms and samples, the baseline prevalence of GAM remained elevated at endline (p > 0.05), despite improved food security (p < 0.05), possibly driven by increased fever/malaria in children (p < 0.001). Nonfood related drivers of malnutrition, such as disease, may limit the effectiveness of UCTs plus supplementary feeding to prevent malnutrition in this context. Caution is required in applying the findings of this study to periods of severe food insecurity.
Cross‐classification of musical and vocal emotions in the auditory cortex
Authors: Paquette Sébastien , Takerkart Sylvain , Saget Shinji , Peretz Isabelle , Belin Pascal
Published: May 2018

Whether emotions carried by voice and music are processed by the brain using similar mechanisms has long been investigated. Yet neuroimaging studies do not provide a clear picture, mainly due to lack of control over stimuli. Here, we report a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study using comparable stimulus material in the voice and music domains—the Montreal Affective Voices and the Musical Emotional Bursts—which include nonverbal short bursts of happiness, fear, sadness, and neutral expressions. We use a multivariate emotion‐classification fMRI analysis involving cross‐timbre classification as a means of comparing the neural mechanisms involved in processing emotional information in the two domains. We find, for affective stimuli in the violin, clarinet, or voice timbres, that local fMRI patterns in the bilateral auditory cortex and upper premotor regions support above‐chance emotion classification when training and testing sets are performed within the same timbre category. More importantly, classifier performance generalized well across timbre in cross‐classifying schemes, albeit with a slight accuracy drop when crossing the voice–music boundary, providing evidence for a shared neural code for processing musical and vocal emotions, with possibly a cost for the voice due to its evolutionary significance.
Surgical robotics for esophageal cancer
Authors: Grimminger Peter P. , van der Horst Sylvia , Ruurda Jelle P. , van Det Marc , Morel Philippe , van Hillegersberg Richard
Published: May 2018

We present an update on robotic techniques and their advantages and use in esophageal cancer surgery. Recent work has shown tremendous progress in robotic‐assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy (RAMIE) and lymphadenectomy for esophageal cancer, as well as benefits of robotic surgery in high upper esophageal tumors and T4b disease. We discuss the different RAMIE techniques, especially for intrathoracic anastomosis. The ongoing ROBOT trial had demonstrated superiority of robotic esophageal cancer surgery over open esophagectomy. There are various putative technical advantages of RAMIE over minimally invasive esophagectomy, which need to be proven in future trials.
Vaccination practices in dialysis patients: A narrative review
Authors: Kosmadakis Georges , Albaret Julie , Correia Enrique Da Costa , Somda Frederic , Aguilera Didier
Published: May 2018

In a period of turmoil concerning vaccination practices, there is a serious conflict between scientifically reasonable, evidence‐based guidelines and the far‐fetched rumors or misconceptions concerning the vaccination practices in the general population. When a significant portion of the medical and paramedical personnel may be deliberately unvaccinated against common biological agents, achieving effective vaccination rates in the dialysis population may be complicated. Vaccination rates are unacceptably low in dialysis patients and seroconversion rates are even lower; further, serological follow‐up is generally poor. The particularly anergic immune system of the advanced chronic kidney disease patients is partly a cause of both high rates of infection and low rates of seroconversions. This narrative review is an effort to summarize current knowledge concerning the vaccination practices in dialysis patients with some specific recommendations based on these facts. Of particular interest is a new vaccine, the Zoster Recombinant, Adjuvanted Vaccine (Shingrix), which we will include in our discussion.
You betcha it's random: riffle shuffling in cards games – when is enough, enough?
Authors: Caudle Kyle A.
Published: May 2018

When playing card games, how many times should a deck be shuffled in order to achieve randomness? This article shows how card shuffling can be used as a classroom exercise to reinforce construction and interpretation of confidence intervals.
GEPPML: General equilibrium analysis with PPML
Authors: Anderson James E. , Larch Mario , Yotov Yoto V.
Published: May 2018

We develop a simple procedure for general equilibrium comparative static analysis of gravity models. Non‐linear solvers are replaced by (constrained) regressions using theoretical properties of the Poisson pseudo‐maximum‐likelihood estimator. Our GEPPML procedure can readily be implemented in any software capable of estimating constrained Poisson models. The procedure accommodates calibrated as well as estimated trade costs while using the estimation power of structural gravity to generate GE comparative statics. Using GEPPML, we quantify the effects of a hypothetical removal of all international borders while preserving the impact of geography on trade. We find that trade liberalisation has reaped at most half the potential world gains from trade in 2002 manufacturing. A complementary counterfactual experiment simulates the removal of the border between Canada and US, thus contributing to the famous “border puzzle” literature in a multicountry setting.
Sports Medicine Staff Size Influences Exertional Heat Illness Policies in High School Football
Authors: Pryor Riana R. , Casa Douglas J. , Yeargin Susan W. , Kerr Zachary Y.
Published: May 2018

All high schools should implement exertional heat illness (EHI) safety strategies. We determined if there were differences in the implementation of EHI safety strategies between schools with and without additional paid athletic trainers (ATs) or a team physician present at preseason football practices. High schools with multiple ATs or a team physician implemented more EHI prevention and management strategies than schools with only a single AT, including training staff in EHI recognition and treatment and having an emergency action plan. However, schools with a paid team physician were more likely to have double practices in the first week of football practice. Schools with additional medical personnel at football preseason practices were more likely to implement EHI safety strategies.