bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Edaphic factors, successional status and functional traits drive habitat associations of trees in naturally regenerating tropical dry forests
Authors: Werden Leland K. , Becknell Justin M. , Powers Jennifer S.
Published: August 2018

Many studies have examined individual environmental drivers of tropical tree species distributions, but edaphic and successional gradients have not been considered simultaneously. Furthermore, determining how functional traits influence species distributions along these gradients may help to elucidate mechanisms behind community assembly.

To assess the influence of environmental filtering on tropical dry forest (TDF) tree species distributions, we used forest inventory data from sites with large edaphic and successional gradients in NW Costa Rica. Our goals were to determine (1) whether edaphic or successional factors are more important determinants of the abundance of individual tree species in regenerating TDF, (2) how species‐level functional traits are related to edaphic and/or successional niche associations of tree species and (3) correlations between species‐level edaphic and successional niche associations.

The distributions of 82 focal tree species were strongly driven by both edaphic and successional gradients. Overall, 94% of species responded to soil chemistry, 89% to soil texture and 94% to stand age gradients. Some functional traits were correlated with the edaphic and successional niche associations of TDF tree species. Species that specialized on soils with high total nutrient concentrations had higher foliar nutrient concentrations (nitrogen and phosphorus) and lower leaf dry matter content (LDMC). Species with wider stand age niches had lower LDMC and wood density. There were no correlations between edaphic and successional niche optima of TDF tree species.

Our results indicate that successional and edaphic gradients concurrently drive community assembly in regenerating TDF. Moreover, our work underscores the importance of considering how the functional characteristics of TDF trees dictate species distributions across environmental gradients.

A plain language summary is available for this article.
Combined bottom‐up and top‐down pressures drive catastrophic population declines of Arctic skuas in Scotland
Authors: Perkins Allan , Ratcliffe Norman , Suddaby Dave , Ribbands Brian , Smith Claire , Ellis Pete , Meek Eric , Bolton Mark
Published: August 2018

Understanding drivers of population change is critical for effective species conservation. In the northeast Atlantic Ocean, recent changes amongst seabird communities are linked to human and climate change impacts on food webs. Many species have declined severely, with food shortages, and increased predation reducing productivity. Arctic skuaStercorarius parasiticus, a kleptoparasite of other seabirds, is one such species.

The aim of the study was to determine relative effects of bottom‐up and top‐down pressures on Arctic skuas across multiple colonies in a rapidly declining national population.

Long‐term monitoring data were used to quantify changes in population size and productivity of Arctic skuas, their hosts (black‐legged kittiwakeRissa tridactyla, common guillemotUria aalge, Atlantic puffinFratercula arctica, Arctic ternSterna paradisaea) and an apex predator (great skuaStercorarius skua) over 24 years (1992–2015) in Scotland. We used digital mapping and statistical models to determine relative effects of bottom‐up (host productivity) and top‐down (great skua density) pressures on Arctic skuas across 33 colonies, and assess variation between three colony types classified by host abundance.

Arctic skuas declined by 81% and their hosts by 42%–92%, whereas at most colonies great skuas increased. Annual productivity declined in Arctic skuas and their hosts, and reduced Arctic skua breeding success was a driver of the species’ population decline. Arctic skua productivity was positively associated with annual breeding success of hosts and negatively with great skua density. Intercolony variation suggested Arctic skua trends and productivity were most sensitive to top‐down pressures at smaller colonies of host species where great skuas had increased most, whereas bottom‐up pressures dominated at large colonies of host species.

Scotland's Arctic skua population is declining rapidly, with bottom‐up and top‐down pressures simultaneously reducing breeding success to unsustainably low levels. Marine food web alterations, strongly influenced by fisheries management and climate change, are driving the decline, and this study demonstrates severe vulnerability of seabirds to rapid change in human‐modified ecosystems. Potential but untested conservation solutions for Arctic skuas include marine protected areas, supplementary feeding within colonies and management of great skuas.
Warming accelerates mangrove expansion and surface elevation gain in a subtropical wetland
Authors: Coldren Glenn A. , Langley J. Adam , Feller Ilka C. , Chapman Samantha K.
Published: August 2018

Climatic warming can change how coastal wetland plants grow, thus altering their capacity to build land and keep pace with rising seas. As freeze events decline with climate change, mangroves expand their range to higher latitudes and displace salt marsh vegetation. Warmer air temperatures will likely alter above‐ and below‐ground plant dynamics as this dramatic coastal wetland biome shift proceeds, which in turn may result in changes in ecosystem function such as sediment building.

We used a large scale in situ warming experiment in a subtropical wetland to increase both marsh and mangrove ecosystem air temperatures. We assessed how 2 years of continuous warming influenced above‐ and below‐ground plant growth and surface elevation relative to sea level.

We found that chronic warming doubled plant height and accelerated the expansion of mangrove into salt marsh vegetation, as indicated by a sixfold greater increase in mangrove cover in warmed plots compared to ambient temperature plots and a corresponding loss in salt marsh cover. Surface elevation gain, a measure of soil‐building capacity, increased due to warming over a 2‐year period and these changes in surface elevation were driven by increased mangrove root production in warmed plots.

Synthesis. Our findings suggest that, in some coastal wetlands, warming can facilitate plant community changes from marsh to mangrove, with corresponding increases in growth that help coastal wetlands to keep pace with sea‐level rise.
Pigmented microbial eukaryotes fuel the deep sea carbon pool in the tropical Western Pacific Ocean
Authors: Xu Dapeng , Sun Ping , Zhang Yizhe , Li Ran , Huang Bangqin , Jiao Nianzhi , Warren Alan , Wang Lei
Published: August 2018

Phototrophic microbial eukaryotes dominate primary production over large oceanic regions. Due to their small sizes and slow sinking rates, it is assumed they contribute relatively little to the downward export of organic carbon via the biological pump. Therefore, the community structure of phototrophic cells in the deep ocean has long been overlooked and remains largely unknown. In this study, we used an integrative approach, including epifluorescence microscopy, sequencing of 18S rRNA and photosystem‐II psbA gene transcripts, to investigate phototrophic microbial eukaryotes in samples collected from the tropical Western Pacific Ocean. It was found that: (i) pigmented nano‐sized eukaryotes (PNEs) are ubiquitous in the deep Western Pacific Ocean down to 5000 m depth; (ii) the PNE community is dominated by cells 2–5 μm in size; (iii) their abundance is significant, averaging 4 ± 1 (± s.e.) cells ml−1 in waters below 1000 m which is comparable to that of heterotrophic nanoflagellates; (iv) the active pigmented microbial eukaryotes in the deep waters are highly diverse and dominated by Haptophyta followed by Chlorophyta and Bacillariophyta; (v) PNEs in deep waters were likely transported from surface ocean by various fast‐sinking mechanisms, thus contributing to the biological pump and fuelling the deep‐sea communities by supplying fresh organic carbon.
Bertrand Game Under Cost Function
Authors: Dube Partha Pratim
Published: August 2018

This paper analyses price competition in the case of monopoly and duopoly considering cost function under the minimum money expensed with demand probability and shows the existence of pure strategy Nash equilibrium of a Bertrand game. It also finds price strategies of two firms to earn maximum profits in a Bertrand game.
Who's Welcome and Who's Not? Opposition towards Immigration in the Nordic Countries, 2002–2014
Authors: Bohman Andrea
Published: August 2018

This article demonstrates the analytical advantages of studying not only the degree to which people oppose immigration in a country, but also the character of their opposition. Using Latent Class Analysis and data from the European Social Survey, Nordic patterns and trends are examined with the aim of identifying different kinds of immigration attitudes and how they develop in different national contexts. The Nordic countries are interesting to compare as, while they are similar in many respects, they also diverge significantly from each other in areas theoretically considered important to the formation of attitudes towards immigration. Studying the character of immigration opposition reveals five different types of immigration attitudes. These are differently distributed between the Nordic countries as well as over time, and include nativist opposition (opposition only towards immigrants of ethnic/racial groups other than that of the majority population) and economic opposition (opposition that entails a separation between immigrants considered to be an economic resource and an economic burden). By demonstrating how immigration opposition in the Nordic countries varies not only in degree but also in character, the article contributes to a deeper understanding of the nature of immigration opposition as well as of how different attitudinal profiles evolve under different contextual circumstances.
‘The Foul Conspiracy to Screen Salisbury and Sacrifice Morton’: A Microhistory of Extortion, Resistance and Same‐Sex Intimacy in Early Nineteenth‐Century London
Authors: ORR DAVID
Published: August 2018

In the early nineteenth century, there was a concerted effort by the judiciary, media and the Home Department to close down official discussion and deny official recognition of same‐sex relationships and sex amongst men. The crime that dare not speak its name became a literal description. The offence of buggery or sodomy was replaced with — in official records and media reports. When the crime was discussed, as in the Vere Street case, it was condemned with increasing vigour as heinous and unnatural. The case Salisbury v. Morton 1827, reconstructed from the petitions and pardons archive, offers a rare insight into the lived experiences of men engaging in same sex relationships in London during this time. It also shows how the criminal justice system responded to these men, and how, in turn, they reacted to, used and manipulated the criminal justice system. Finally, this microhistory speaks to the intersection of class and sexuality as the context for legal decision‐making to reveal complexities and dynamics often missing from more generalized or structural histories of same‐sex intimacy.
Are Government and Bank Loans Substitutes or Complements? Evidence from Spatial Discontinuity in Equity Loans
Authors: Szumilo Nikodem , Vanino Enrico
Published: August 2018

This article studies the impact of an increase in the limit of a direct equity loan provided by the U.K. government to finance mortgage deposits on aggregate mortgage lending by banks. It uses the spatial discontinuity methodology and takes advantage of the natural experiment which occurred when the limit of equity loans increased in London after the reform of the Help‐to‐Buy (HTB) scheme. By comparing postcode sectors on the opposite sides of the London boundary, we measure the impact of the new policy on very similar housing markets. The results show that higher equity loans increase aggregate mortgage lending by banks.
Genome‐wide association study reveals the locus responsible for microtia in Valle del Belice sheep breed
Authors: Mastrangelo S. , Sottile G. , Sutera A. M. , Di Gerlando R. , Tolone M. , Moscarelli A. , Sardina M. T. , Portolano B.
Published: August 2018

Microtia is a congenital deformity of the outer ear with phenotypes varying from a small auricle to total absence (anotia). The genetic basis is still poorly understood, and very few studies have been performed in sheep. Valle del Belice sheep is a breed showing microtia. The aim of this study was to identify the potential genomic regions involved in microtia in sheep. A total of 40 individuals, 20 with microtia and 20 normal, were genotyped with the Illumina OvineSNP50 BeadChip. The comparison among the results from a genome‐wide association study, Fisher's exact test and FST analysis revealed a single strong association signal: rs419889303 on chromosome 1, located within intron 3 of the CLRN1 gene. Our study suggests for the first time that this novel candidate gene is responsible for microtia in sheep. Additional analysis based on the sequencing would help confirm our findings and allow for the proposal of a precise genetic basis for microtia in sheep.
Comparison of cellular localisation of the Ca2+‐binding proteins calbindin, calretinin and parvalbumin in the retina of four different Macaca species
Authors: Roski Christian , Langrock Christiane , Körber Nicole , Habermann Gunnar , Buse Eberhard , Reichenbach Andreas , Pannicke Thomas , Francke Mike
Published: August 2018

Ca2+‐binding proteins are differentially expressed in the nervous system; their functional role often remains unclear. This immunohistochemical study aimed at characterising and comparing the expression pattern of the Ca2+‐binding proteins calbindin (Calb), calretinin (Calr) and parvalbumin (Parv) in the retina of four species of macaque monkeys: Macaca fascicularis (cynomolgus macaque), M. mulatta (rhesus macaque), M. thibetana (Tibetan macaque) and M. fuscata (Japanese macaque). Calb was found in cone photoreceptors and in a subset of bipolar cells. Calr was expressed in a subpopulation of amacrine cells. Parv was present in horizontal and ganglion cells. In addition, Müller cells were stained using antibodies against the specific marker cellular retinaldehyde‐binding protein (CRALBP). Immunostainings were used for calculation of the density of different cell populations. The expression pattern was similar between the examined species and between retinal regions.
Genotype–phenotype correlation and the size of microdeletion or microduplication of 7q11.23 region in patients with Williams‐Beuren syndrome
Authors: Ghaffari Mahsa , Tahmasebi Birgani Maryam , Kariminejad Roxana , Saberi Alihossein
Published: August 2018

Williams‐Beuren syndrome (WBS) is a chromosomal microdeletion syndrome with variable phenotypic features such as supravalvular aortic stenosis (SVAS), facial appearance characteristics, growth retardation, and infantile hypercalcemia. This study aimed to detect the 7q11.23 microdeletion in 10 patients with early clinical diagnosis of WBS using fluorescent in situ hybridization or array comparative genomic hybridization. As an alternative method, multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) was used to confirm this microdeletion. Clinical features were also compared with detected genotypes. To reveal the parental origin of deletion, four polymorphic markers (D7S1870, D7S489, D7S613, and D7S2476) were used. The deletion had maternal origin in 80% and paternal origin in 20% of the cases. From 10 patients with early clinical diagnosis of the WBS, 3 patients presented with atypical phenotypes such as infantile hypocalcemia, normal IQ, and normal facial characterization, but the sizes of their deletions seemed to be almost similar to other cases. Regarding such observation, we suggest that the phenotypic variations of WBS are influenced not only by the deletion size and involving genes but also by the breakpoint regions and probably epigenetic effects. However, further research is required to explore the effect of such parameters on phenotypic features.
Patterns of opioid use during initial buprenorphine/naloxone treatment in relation to changes in opioid management laws in Kentucky
Authors: Dhanda Anjali , O'Connor Stephen S. , McGuire Heather , Knox Ellen , Ruth Erika
Published: August 2018

Background and Objectives

There is limited information on the most commonly used opioid reported at the time of presentation for treatment with buprenorphine/naloxone and the extent to which state policy may impact type of opioid use reported.

Methods

Retrospective study, total N = of 595 from four different medical locations from January 1, 2009 to July 1, 2016 that provided buprenorphine/naloxone treatment in Louisville, Kentucky. Study aims included identifying the most commonly used opioid at the time of treatment before and after the creation of a state‐wide opioid prescribing surveillance system (ie, the 2012 House Bill 1 [HB1]), and determine the extent to which clinical setting, sex, age, and insurance type impacted type of opioid reported during the intake appointment.

Results

Non‐heroin opioid use decreased in the academic and private practice settings following passage of HB1, while heroin use increased in all three settings. After controlling for clinical setting and demographic characteristics, there was a significant increase in patients who reported using heroin (vs. non‐heroin opioid) (RR = 25.00, p ≤ .001, CI = 12.08–51.73) and a significant increase in patients who reported using opioid agonists (vs. non‐heroin opioid) (RR = 6.56, p ≤ .001, CI = 4.10–10.50) following enactment of HB1.

Discussion and Conclusions

After the passage of HB1, there was a significant increase in patients reporting heroin use and opioid agonists compared to non‐heroin opioids when presenting for treatment.

Significant Significance

There has been a notable shift in the opioid epidemic, which is evident in the outpatient treatment settings. (Am J Addict 2018;27:560–566)
Associated factors of widespread pattern of dermatitis among patch test population: 12‐Year retrospective study
Authors: Boonchai Waranya , Maneeprasopchoke Pitchaya , Chaweekulrat Pichanee , Kasemsarn Pranee
Published: August 2018

Background/Objective

Widespread dermatitis is often associated with diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Multiple factors influence this widespread pattern of dermatitis. We aim to study the associated factors in patch‐tested patients who presented with widespread pattern of dermatitis.

Method

This retrospective, case–control study was conducted on patients with dermatitis who were patch tested during January 2005 to December 2016. The demographic data, patient and family histories, diagnoses, and patch test findings were recorded and analyzed.

Results

Of the 3201 included patients, 645 (20.2%) had widespread pattern of dermatitis. Being male, age >60, and history of either atopic dermatitis (AD) or metal allergy were significantly associated with the widespread dermatitis pattern. A multivariate analysis demonstrated that preservatives were the significant offending allergens, especially methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI), and methylisothiazolinone (MI) alone.

Conclusion

Widespread pattern of dermatitis is associated with gender, age, underlying atopic dermatitis and a history of metal allergy. Preservatives are the significant offending allergens of widespread dermatitis, especially MCI/MI, and MI alone. A thorough history taking and patch testing, including preservatives, are necessary to determine the cause of widespread pattern of dermatitis.
Cultural influences in somatosensory amplification and their association with negative affective states
Authors: Ishii Keiko
Published: August 2018

Previous research has indicated that, reflecting East Asians’ holistic attentional style, they are likely to emphasize more somatic symptoms and perceive their internal visceral states less accurately as compared with Westerners. Based on these findings, comparing representative samples of Americans and Japanese participants, this research examined whether somatosensory amplification would vary across cultures. Moreover, by controlling confounding factors, including neuroticism and chronic disorders, the possibility that the association between somatosensory amplification and negative affective states differs across cultures also was tested. The results showed that Japanese exhibit higher somatosensory amplification than do Americans. In both cultures, as neuroticism and the number of chronic disorders increased, negative affective states also increased, leading to higher somatosensory amplification. Whereas negative affective states completely mediated the paths of neuroticism and chronic disorders to somatosensory amplification in the United States, such mediation was partial in Japan. Moreover, the association between somatosensory amplification and negative affective states was weaker in Japanese than in Americans.
Exhaled breath condensate volatilome allows sensitive diagnosis of persistent asthma
Authors: Cavaleiro Rufo João , Paciência Inês , Mendes Francisca Castro , Farraia Mariana , Rodolfo Ana , Silva Diana , de Oliveira Fernandes Eduardo , Delgado Luís , Moreira André
Published: August 2018

Background

The diagnosis and phenotyping of paediatric asthma are particularly complex due to the lack of currently available sensitive diagnostic tools. This often results in uncertainties associated with inhaled steroid therapy prescription. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether volatile organic compounds measured in exhaled breath condensate can be used as biomarkers for asthma diagnosis in the paediatric population.

Methods

A total of 64 participants, aged 6‐18 years, were recruited on a random basis during visits to an outpatient allergy clinic and to a juvenile football team training session. Lung function, airway reversibility and skin prick tests were performed. Exhaled breath condensate samples were collected, and breathprints were assessed using an electronic nose. Information on medical diagnosis of asthma, rhinitis and atopic dermatitis was retrieved for each participant. A hierarchical cluster model based on the volatilome profiles was then created.

Results

A two‐cluster exhaled volatile organic compound‐based hierarchical model was able to significantly discriminate individuals with asthma from those without the disease (AUC = 0.81 [0.69‐0.93], P < 0.001). Individuals who had persistent asthma and were prescribed corticosteroid therapy by the physician were also significantly distinguished in the model (AUC = 0.81 [0.70‐0.92], P < 0.001). Despite being less specific, the method showed higher overall accuracy, sensitivity and AUC values when compared to spirometry with bronchodilation.

Conclusions

Analysis of the exhaled breath condensate volatilome allowed the distinction of paediatric individuals with a medical diagnosis of asthma, identifying those in need of corticosteroid therapy.
Artemisia pollen allergy in China: Component‐resolved diagnosis reveals allergic asthma patients have significant multiple allergen sensitization
Authors: Gao Zhongshan , Fu Wan‐Yi , Sun Yuemei , Gao Biyuan , Wang Hui‐Ying , Liu Meiling , Luo Fang‐Mei , Zhou Xiang , Jin Jing , Zhao Lan , Wu Shandong , Liu Yi , Wu Lingying , Wang Xuefeng , Tang Ning‐Bo , Guo Bao‐Hua , Feng Yan , Zhou Jian Ying , Gadermaier Gabriele , Ferreira Fatima , Versteeg Serge A. , van Ree Ronald
Published: August 2018

Background

Artemisia pollen allergy is a major cause of asthma in Northern China. Possible associations between IgE responses to Artemisia allergen components and clinical phenotypes have not yet been evaluated. This study was to establish sensitization patterns of four Artemisia allergens and possible associations with demographic characteristics and clinical phenotypes in three areas of China.

Methods

Two hundred and forty patients allergic to Artemisia pollen were examined, 178 from Shanxi and 30 from Shandong Provinces in Northern China, and 32 from Yunnan Province in Southwestern China. Allergic asthma, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and eczema symptoms were diagnosed. All patients’ sera were tested by ImmunoCAP with mugwort pollen extract and the natural components nArt v 1, nArt ar 2, nArt v 3, and nArt an 7.

Results

The frequency of sensitization and the IgE levels of the four components in Artemisia allergic patients from Southwestern China were significantly lower than in those from the North. Art v 1 and Art an 7 were the most frequently recognized allergens (84% and 87%, respectively), followed by Art v 3 (66%) and Art ar 2 (48%). Patients from Northern China were more likely to have allergic asthma (50%) than patients from Southwestern China (3%), and being sensitized to more than two allergens increased the risk of allergic asthma, in which co‐sensitization to three major allergens Art v 1, Art v 3, and Art an 7 is prominent.

Conclusions

Component‐resolved diagnosis of Chinese Artemisia pollen‐allergic patients helps assess the potential risk of mugwort‐associated allergic asthma.
FARMERS’ WILLINGNESS TO INVEST IN NEW COOPERATIVE INSTRUMENTS: A CHOICE EXPERIMENT
Authors: ALHO Eeva
Published: August 2018

Globalization of agricultural markets put pressures on producer cooperatives to invest in expansion and growth to safeguard their competitiveness. Availability of capital is limited if farmers do not have incentives to increase their capital contribution. Cooperative literature recognizes the residual rights, transferability, and the appreciation potential of the investment as the potential solutions for the problems that may impede cooperative investments. The objective of this study is to understand farmer preferences regarding investment attributes and the potential for attracting investment capital from members and non‐members. We employ a choice experiment method to test new cooperative investment instruments. The data consist of a questionnaire conducted with 406 Finnish dairy farmers. Random parameter latent class logit model is used in the estimation of the data. The results indicate that most of the respondents regard the new investment instruments positively. However, farmers prefer restricting ownership rights to members. Incentives for members to participate in financing cooperative growth could be designed with capital‐based residual rights, mechanisms for transferability and for the appreciation of firm value. Estimation that considered choice difficulty improved model fit, which highlights the need to address respondent burden also in future studies of hypothetical investments in order to produce unbiased estimates.
Hypochromatic large urothelial cells in urine cytology are indicative of high grade urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Pierconti Francesco , Martini Maurizio , Straccia Patrizia , Fiorentino Vincenzo , Musarra Teresa , Larocca Luigi Maria , Lopez‐Beltran Antonio
Published: August 2018

In this study, we have examined 67 cytology specimens from patients from 2014 to 2016. The ratio man to women was 4:1 with a median age of 75 years (range: 55–87 years). Thin‐Prep processed urinary cytology specimens demonstrated large urothelial cells, with cytologic features of malignancy, thus including hypochromatic nuclei with occasional peripherally accentuated chromatin rim. The cytological diagnosis of High Grade Urothelial Carcinoma (HGUC) was made in 55 patients while 12 specimens were classified as Atypical Urothelial Cells (AUC). This cases represent the 15% of the HGUC and the 4% of the AUC cases diagnosed in our department between 2016 to 2018. Of note, is the fact that in AUC cases, hypochromatic irregular urothelial cells were the only type of cells with malignant features observed in the specimen, and therefore, according to the Paris System criteria, the absence of nuclear hyperchromasia precludes a diagnosis of suspicious high grade urothelial carcinoma (SHGUC) or High Grade Urothelial Carcinoma (HGUC). Subsequent biopsy diagnosis of high grade urothelial carcinoma confirmed the cytological diagnosis of HGUC in 55 patients but also in all 12 patients with a AUC cytologic diagnosis. Our study series support the hypothesis that malignant urothelial cells with hypochromatic nuclei seen in urine cytologic specimens can be diagnostic for HGUC based on their very large nuclei, high nuclear cytoplasmatic ratio (N/C) >0.7, irregular nuclear outlines and coarse (frequently peripheral) chromatin in the absence of hyperchromasia.
Lisinopril‐associated bullous pemphigoid in an elderly woman: a case report of a rare adverse drug reaction
Authors: Ballout Rami A. , Musharrafieh Umayya , Khattar Joe
Published: August 2018

An 87‐year‐old woman with a long‐standing history of hypertension, hypothyroidism and diabetes presented to us with scaly and pruritic vesicles of an erythematous base and crusted surface of 2‐month duration. They first appeared on her abdomen and gradually spread to her lower back, thighs, before spreading to her upper and lower limbs. Her lesions were non‐painful, aggravated by sun exposure only, and sparing mucous membranes. Nikolsky sign was positive with no discernible fluid‐filled bullae. History was remarkable only for a doubling of her Lisinopril dosage 2 months prior to the appearance of her lesions, with no other potential environmental and/or drug triggers recognizable on history taking. In light of the appearance of her lesions after her Lisinopril dose escalation, in the absence of any other discernible triggers, an adverse drug reaction (ADR) was entertained, yielding a corresponding Naranjo ADR probability score of 7. Particularly, drug‐induced pemphigus foliaceus was initially suspected given her clinical presentation and the morphology and distribution of her lesions. However, her skin biopsy altered our diagnosis to drug‐induced bullous pemphigoid (BP) instead, making this the second case reported to date on Lisinopril‐induced BP, and the first to report a dose–response variant of this adverse reaction.
Safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic modelling of the novel H4 receptor inhibitor SENS‐111 using a modified caloric test in healthy subjects
Authors: Venail Frédéric , Attali Pierre , Wersinger Eric , Gomeni Roberto , Poli Sonia , Schmerber Sebastien
Published: August 2018

Aim

A Phase 1 study was performed to evaluate safety, pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of the selective histamine H4 receptor antagonist SENS‐111, an oral small molecule.

Methods

One hundred healthy subjects were randomized in a placebo‐controlled, double‐blind study evaluating single‐ascending doses (SAD; 100–500 mg) and multiple‐ascending doses (MAD; 50–150 mg day−1, 4 days; 200–250 mg day−1, 7 days). Effects of SENS‐111 on nystagmus and vertigo induced by modified caloric tests were measured in the MAD studies. Population PK and PK/PD models were developed using a nonlinear mixed‐effects approach.

Results

SENS‐111 was well tolerated with mild to moderate events. No sedation was reported. A maximal tolerated dose was not reached. Dose‐proportional increases in concentrations were seen up to 200 mg and more than dose‐proportional thereafter, with mean half‐life between 24 and 56 h. The caloric test induced mild but measurable vertigo and nystagmus with large intra/inter‐individual variation for all parameters. SENS‐111 did not significantly impact nystagmus but significantly improved latency of vertigo appearance/disappearance, duration and European Evaluation of Vertigo questionnaire parameters vs. baseline. A two‐compartment model with first‐order absorption, distribution and elimination best fit the data. PK/PD indirect modelling applied to vertigo duration and latency of appearance indicated maximum activity between 100 and 500 ng ml−1 plasma concentrations, corresponding to 100 and 200 mg day−1, which are appropriate for clinical efficacy evaluations in vestibular diseases.

Conclusions

SENS‐111 is a well‐tolerated first‐in‐class H4 receptor antagonist with acceptable PK for oral daily dosing. PK/PD modelling determined plasma concentrations and doses for efficacy studies in patients with vertigo symptoms.
Yes‐associated protein mediates angiotensin II‐induced vascular smooth muscle cell phenotypic modulation and hypertensive vascular remodelling
Authors: Lin Maohuan , Yuan Woliang , Su Zizhuo , Lin Caina , Huang Tucheng , Chen Yangxin , Wang Jingfeng
Published: August 2018

Objectives

Yes‐associated protein (YAP) has been reported to regulate cell proliferation and differentiation. We aimed to characterize the role of YAP in angiotensin II (Ang II)‐induced hypertensive vascular remodelling (HVR) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) phenotypic modulation and to explore the underlying mechanisms.

Materials and methods

An HVR rat model was established by continuous Ang II infusion for 2 weeks. Western blotting, qRT‐PCR, and confocal microscopy were conducted to assess YAP expression. YAP‐shRNA interfering plasmid and adenovirus were constructed to knock down YAP. We used cell proliferation and migration assays, accompanied by pathway inhibitors, to evaluate the biological function and underlying mechanisms.

Results

Ang II upregulated YAP expression in the media of carotid artery; however, in vivo YAP silencing significantly mitigated HVR, independent of the blood pressure level. Ang II upregulated YAP expression and promoted YAP nuclear accumulation in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner in rat VSMCs. YAP knockdown ameliorated Ang II‐induced VSMCs phenotypic modulation. The regulation of YAP by Ang II could be blocked by pretreatment with angiotensin receptor type 1 antagonist losartan or F‐actin depolymerizing agent latrunculin B but not the AT2R antagonist PD 123319. Disrupting the YAP‐TEA domain (TEAD) interaction with verteporfin inhibited Ang II‐induced VSMCs phenotypic modulation.

Conclusions

Yes‐associated protein mediated angiotensin II‐induced VSMCs phenotypic modulation and vascular remodelling. YAP is a potential therapeutic target for HVR beyond blood pressure control.
Immunohistochemical expression of melanocytic and myofibroblastic markers and their molecular correlation in atypical fibroxanthomas and pleomorphic dermal sarcomas
Authors: Helbig Doris , Mauch Cornelia , Buettner Reinhard , Quaas Alexander
Published: August 2018

Background

Atypical fibroxanthomas (AFXs) and pleomorphic dermal sarcomas (PDSs) are UV‐induced pleomorphic skin tumors with a non‐specific immunoprofile. For that reason, exclusion of other dedifferentiated tumor entities by immunohistochemistry is still mandatory to avoid misdiagnosis.

Methods

We determined the expression frequency of several melanocytic and myofibroblastic markers investigating 50 AFXs and PDSs.. Next‐generation‐sequencing (NGS) was performed in microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor (MiTF)‐expressing cases.

Results

We identified one MiTF‐expressing AFX and PDS, and two PDSs harboring single S100‐positive dendritic cells whereas Melan A, HMB45, and SOX10 were negative. Calponin was moderately expressed by tumor giant cells in one PDS whereas h‐caldesmon, desmin, and myogenin were not expressed in any of the AFXs or PDSs. The MiTF‐positive AFX presented CDKN2A, OXA1L, and PDGFRA mutations whereas the PDS harbored a typical TP53 mutation. Both patients have not shown any tumor progression over the last 16 and 30 months.

Conclusion

Rarely, AFX and PDS express the melanocytic marker MiTF and/or the myofibroblastic marker calponin. In doubtful cases, using a panel of immunohistochemical markers helps to avoid misdiagnosis.
Cytological diagnosis of cryptococcosis in a biliary specimen: Report of a rare case with brief review of literature
Authors: Kumar Neeta , Gupta Ruchika , Sayed Shahin , Moloo Zahir , Adam Rodney , Gunturu Revathi , Devani Smita
Published: August 2018

Cytologic diagnosis of cryptococcosis with initial presentation as hepatobiliary dysfunction has been reported in only one case in the existing literature. We describe the clinical, radiological and cytological features of a HIV‐positive patient with disseminated cryptococcosis presenting with hepatobiliary involvement.
How rivers and historical climate oscillations impact on genetic structure in Chinese Muntjac (Muntiacus reevesi)?
Authors: Sun Zhonglou , Wang Hui , Zhou Wenliang , Shi Wenbo , Zhu Weiquan , Zhang Baowei
Published: August 2018

Aim

The characterization of the genetic structure and demographic dynamics of a species can shed light on the impacts of natural landscapes, historical climate change and human activities, thus enabling us to develop appropriate protection and management strategies. In this study, we aimed to characterize how the above‐mentioned factors shaped the genetic structure and demographic history of the Chinese muntjac (Muntiacus reevesi).

Location

The reaches of the Yangtze River, China.

Methods

Using mtDNA control region sequences and 15 nuclear microsatellite loci as genetic markers, we analysed population genetic structure with a factorial correspondence analysis (FCA), AMOVA,FSTestimates and Bayesian cluster analysis. In addition, we estimated the demographic history using Bayesian skyline plot (BSP) analysis and MSVAR simulation.

Results

High genetic diversity was detected in Chinese muntjac populations. Population structure analysis strongly suggesting three genetic clusters (QL/BA/WLS, DB and JLS/WN/WYS). The demographic analyses showed that Chinese muntjac experienced population fluctuation during the late Pleistocene, followed by bottleneck during the Holocene.

Main conclusions

The extant Chinese muntjac populations harbour a surprisingly high genetic diversity despite of the bottleneck they went through. The populations show significant population structure separating populations in the upper, middle and lower regions of the Yangtze River, supporting the presence of three independent management units (QL/BA/WLS, DB and JLS/WN/WYS). The population demography of the Chinese muntjac presents high concordance with the rotation of glacial–interglacial in late Pleistocene. In addition, our study identified that the Chinese muntjac's recent population history may have been influenced by early human activities (8,509–1,605 years ago).
A little labeling goes a long way: Semi‐supervised learning in infancy
Authors: LaTourrette Alexander , Waxman Sandra R.
Published: August 2018

There is considerable evidence that labeling supports infants' object categorization. Yet in daily life, most of the category exemplars that infants encounter will remain unlabeled. Inspired by recent evidence from machine learning, we propose that infants successfully exploit this sparsely labeled input through “semi‐supervised learning.” Providing only a few labeled exemplars leads infants to initiate the process of categorization, after which they can integrate all subsequent exemplars, labeled or unlabeled, into their evolving category representations. Using a classic novelty preference task, we introduced 2‐year‐old infants (n = 96) to a novel object category, varying whether and when its exemplars were labeled. Infants were equally successful whether all exemplars were labeled (fully supervised condition) or only the first two exemplars were labeled (semi‐supervised condition), but they failed when no exemplars were labeled (unsupervised condition). Furthermore, the timing of the labeling mattered: when the labeled exemplars were provided at the end, rather than the beginning, of familiarization (reversed semi‐supervised condition), infants failed to learn the category. This provides the first evidence of semi‐supervised learning in infancy, revealing that infants excel at learning from exactly the kind of input that they typically receive in acquiring real‐world categories and their names.
The organization of words and environmental sounds in the second year: Behavioral and electrophysiological evidence
Authors: Hendrickson Kristi , Love Tracy , Walenski Matthew , Friend Margaret
Published: August 2018

The majority of research examining early auditory‐semantic processing and organization is based on studies of meaningful relations between words and referents. However, a thorough investigation into the fundamental relation between acoustic signals and meaning requires an understanding of how meaning is associated with both lexical and non‐lexical sounds. Indeed, it is unknown how meaningful auditory information that is not lexical (e.g., environmental sounds) is processed and organized in the young brain. To capture the structure of semantic organization for words and environmental sounds, we record event‐related potentials as 20‐month‐olds view images of common nouns (e.g., dog) while hearing words or environmental sounds that match the picture (e.g., “dog” or barking), that are within‐category violations (e.g., “cat” or meowing), or that are between‐category violations (e.g., “pen” or scribbling). Results show both words and environmental sounds exhibit larger negative amplitudes to between‐category violations relative to matches. Unlike words, which show a greater negative response early and consistently to within‐category violations, such an effect for environmental sounds occurs late in semantic processing. Thus, as in adults, the young brain represents semantic relations between words and between environmental sounds, though it more readily differentiates semantically similar words compared to environmental sounds.
Impact of chronic hyponatremia on neurocognitive and neuromuscular function
Authors: Refardt Julie , Kling Bernadette , Krausert Katharina , Fassnacht Martin , von Felten Stefanie , Christ‐Crain Mirjam , Fenske Wiebke
Published: August 2018

Background

Chronic hyponatremia is common and associated with increased morbidity and mortality. However, whether treatment improves outcome in patients without significant symptoms is unclear. We here assessed the therapeutic outcome on clinical symptoms, neurocognitive and neuromuscular function in patients with chronic non profound hyponatremia.

Material and Methods

Prospective case‐control study in 19 patients from the University Hospital Würzburg with chronic non profound hyponatremia without clinically apparent symptoms. At baseline and after a 14‐day treatment period of hyponatremia, patients were assessed by specific clinical symptoms questionnaire, neurocognitive and neuromuscular function was analysed by five attention tests and a gait test consisting of 3 steps “in tandem.” The results were compared to a control group of healthy volunteers.

Results

Compared to healthy volunteers, patients with mild (n = 10, mean serum sodium 132 ± 1.2 mmol/L) and moderate hyponatremia (n = 9, mean 126 ± 3.3 mmol/L) performed significantly worse in the neurocognitive subtests alertness (P = 0.018), divided attention (P = 0.017) and go/no‐go (P = 0.026). Performance in the neuromuscular subtests was also lower in the patient group without reaching significance. The extent of hyponatremia had no impact on the specific test and questionnaire results.

Fourteen‐day treatment of hyponatremia improved clinical symptoms in all patients (P = 0.003) and neurocognitive function in sodium‐normalised patients (go/no‐go test, P = 0.029).

Conclusion

Chronic hyponatremia is symptomatic and impairs neurocognitive and neuromuscular function. Short‐time therapeutic intervention led to improved clinical symptoms and neurocognitive function, but had no effect on neuromuscular function. Larger trials with long‐term treatment are needed to specify the therapeutic need in chronic hyponatremia.
Property rights in land and output growth in Russia
Authors: Leonard Carol S. , Nazarov Zafar , Il'ina Irina
Published: August 2018

This paper tests whether the implementation of a key market‐oriented reform in post‐Soviet Russia, property rights in land, proxied by the percent of privatized land by region, affected the pace of sub‐national economic growth during two unprecedented expansion periods: 2001–2008 and 2010–2014. Individuals gained the Constitutional right to own land in 1993, but implementation was stalled. The pace of land privatization can be explained by arguably exogenous factors such as distance to Moscow, as well as climate and also regional political culture, proxied by concentration of votes in the 2004 presidential election. We show that this rate of land privatization in Russia's regions was significantly associated with output growth in 2010–2014, confirming the policy importance of this measure for developing economies. Regions where private holdings expanded most rapidly with the enforcement of property rights in land, gained a competitive advantage in the growth process through increased investment in fixed assets and private consumption.
Risk of orofacial injuries and mouthguard use in water polo players
Authors: Zamora‐Olave Carla , Willaert Eva , Montero‐Blesa Ariadna , Riera‐Punet Nina , Martinez‐Gomis Jordi
Published: August 2018

Background/aim

The incidence of orofacial injuries and the use of mouthguards in water polo players have not been well established. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of orofacial injuries in water polo players. Frequency of mouthguard use, the types of mouthguards used and the degree of interference with oral functions were also assessed.

Material and Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, 347 water polo players completed a questionnaire about the orofacial injuries suffered in the 2015‐2016 season and the experience of using a mouthguard, such as the type of mouthguard used and the degree of interference with oral functions.

Results

In the 2015‐2016 season, 57.9% of the players reported at least one orofacial injury, with mean numbers of 2.7 oral lacerations, 0.4 episodes of temporomandibular pain and 0.06 dental injuries. Among the 35 players (10.1%) who had tried a mouthguard, only four (1.2%) used it habitually. Some players had tried more than one type of mouthguard; 26 had tried the mouth‐formed type; 11 the custom‐made type; and 7 the prefabricated mouthguard. Custom‐made mouthguards were rated as more comfortable than the mouth‐formed type (P < 0.05). The main disadvantages of mouth‐formed mouthguards were interferences with speaking, breathing and swallowing.

Conclusions

The incidence of orofacial injuries in water polo players is high. Although some players had tried a mouthguard, mainly the mouth‐formed type, most of them do not wear them routinely for training and competition.