bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence for Changes in Numbers of Synaptic Inputs onto KNDy and GnRH Neurones during the Preovulatory LH Surge in the Ewe
Authors: Merkley C. M. , Coolen L. M. , Goodman R. L. , Lehman M. N.
Published: May 2015

Kisspeptin neurones located in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) and preoptic area (POA) are critical mediators of gonadal steroid feedback onto gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) neurones. ARC kisspeptin cells that co‐localise neurokinin B (NKB) and dynorphin (Dyn), are collectively referred to as KNDy (Kisspeptin/NKB/Dyn) neurones, and have been shown in mice to also co‐express the vesicular glutamate transporter, vGlut2, an established glutamatergic marker. The ARC in rodents has long been known as a site of hormone‐induced neuroplasticity, and changes in synaptic inputs to ARC neurones in rodents occur over the oestrous cycle. Based on this evidence, the the present study aimed to examine possible changes across the ovine oestrous cycle in synaptic inputs onto kisspeptin cells in the ARC (KNDy) and POA, and inputs onto GnRH neurones. Gonadal‐intact breeding season ewes were perfused using 4% paraformaldehyde during either the luteal or follicular phase of the oestrous cycle, with the latter group killed at the time of the luteinising hormone (LH) surge. Hypothalamic sections were processed for triple‐label immunodetection of kisspeptin/vGlut2/synaptophysin or kisspeptin/vGlut2/GnRH. The total numbers of synaptophysin‐ and vGlut2‐positive inputs to ARC KNDy neurones were significantly increased at the time of the LH surge compared to the luteal phase; because these did not contain kisspeptin, they do not arise from KNDy neurones. By contrast to the ARC, the total number of synaptophysin‐positive inputs onto POA kisspeptin neurones did not differ between luteal phase and surge animals. The total number of kisspeptin and vGlut2 inputs onto GnRH neurones in the mediobasal hypothalamus (MBH) was also increased during the LH surge, and could be attributed to an increase in the number of KNDy (double‐labelled kisspeptin + vGlut2) inputs. Taken together, these results provide novel evidence of synaptic plasticity at the level of inputs onto KNDy and GnRH neurones during the ovine oestrous cycle. Such changes may contribute to the generation of the preovulatory GnRH/LH surge.
LOCATIONAL SIGNALING AND AGGLOMERATION
Authors: Berliant Marcus , Yu Chia‐Ming
Published: May 2015

Agglomeration can be caused by asymmetric information and a locational signaling effect: The location choice of workers signals their productivity to potential employers. The cost of a signal is the cost of housing at that location. When workers' marginal willingness to pay for housing is negatively correlated with their productivity, only the core‐periphery (partially stratified) equilibria are stable. When workers' marginal willingness to pay for housing and their productivity are positively correlated, there is no core‐periphery equilibrium. The urban wage premium is explained when there is a core‐periphery equilibrium. Furthermore, location can at best be an approximate rather than a precise sieve for high‐skill workers.
The Effect of Orally Administered Ranitidine and Once‐Daily or Twice‐Daily Orally Administered Omeprazole on Intragastric pH in Cats
Authors: Šutalo S. , Ruetten M. , Hartnack S. , Reusch C.E. , Kook P. H.
Published: May 2015

Background

Gastric acid suppressants frequently are used in cats with acid‐related gastric disorders. However, it is not known if these drugs effectively increase intragastric pH in cats.

Objectives

To examine the effects of PO administered ranitidine and omeprazole on intragastric pH in cats and to compare the efficacy of once‐daily versus twice‐daily dosage regimens for omeprazole.

Animals

Eight domestic shorthair cats.

Methods

Using a randomized 4‐way cross‐over design, cats were given enteric‐coated omeprazole granules (1.1–1.3 mg/kg q24h and q12h), ranitidine (1.5–2.3 mg/kg q12h), and placebo. Intragastric pH was monitored continuously for 96 hours using the Bravo™ system, starting on day 4 of treatment, followed by a median washout period of 12 days. Mean percentage of time pH was ≥3 and ≥4 was compared among groups using repeated measures ANOVA.

Results

Mean ± SD percentage of time intragastric pH was ≥3 and ≥4 was 67.0 ± 24.0% and 54.6 ± 26.4% for twice‐daily omeprazole, 24.4 ± 22.8% and 16.8 ± 19.3% for once‐daily omeprazole, 16.5 ± 9.0% and 9.6 ± 5.9% for ranitidine, and 9.4 ± 8.0% and 7.0 ± 6.6% for placebo administration. Twice‐daily omeprazole treatment significantly increased intragastric pH, whereas pH after once‐daily omeprazole and ranitidine treatments did not differ from that of placebo‐treated cats.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Only twice‐daily PO administered omeprazole significantly suppressed gastric acidity in healthy cats, whereas once‐daily omeprazole and standard dosages of ranitidine were not effective acid suppressants in cats.
Sulfur in presolar silicon carbide grains from asymptotic giant branch stars
Authors: Hoppe Peter , Lodders Katharina , Fujiya Wataru
Published: May 2015

We studied 14 presolar SiC mainstream grains for C‐, Si‐, and S‐isotopic compositions and S elemental abundances. Ten grains have low levels of S contamination and CI chondrite‐normalized S/Si ratios between 2 × 10−5 and 2 × 10−4. All grains have S‐isotopic compositions compatible within 2σ of solar values. Their mean S isotope composition deviates from solar by at most a few percent, and is consistent with values observed for the carbon star IRC+10216, believed to be a representative source star of the grains, and the interstellar medium. The isotopic data are also consistent with stellar model predictions of low‐mass asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars. In a δ33S versus δ34S plot the data fit along a line with a slope of 1.8 ± 0.7, suggesting imprints from galactic chemical evolution. The observed S abundances are lower than expected from equilibrium condensation of CaS in solid solution with SiC under pressure and temperature conditions inferred from the abundances of more refractory elements in SiC. Calcium to S abundance ratios are generally above unity, contrary to expectations for stoichiometric CaS solution in the grains, possibly due to condensation of CaC2 into SiC. We observed a correlation between Mg and S abundances suggesting solid solution of MgS in SiC. The low abundances of S in mainstream grains support the view that the significantly higher abundances of excess 32S found in some Type AB SiC grains are the result of in situ decay of radioactive 32Si from born‐again AGB stars that condensed into AB grains.
Refractory inclusions in the pristine carbonaceous chondrites DOM 08004 and DOM 08006
Authors: Simon Steven B. , Grossman Lawrence
Published: May 2015

The Antarctic carbonaceous chondrites DOM 08004 and DOM 08006 have been paired and classified as CO3.0s. There is some uncertainty as to whether they should be paired and whether they are best classified as CO chondrites, but they provide an opportunity for the study of refractory inclusions that have not been modified by parent body processes. In this work, refractory inclusions in thin sections of DOM 08004 and 08006 are studied and compared with inclusions in ALHA77307 (CO3.0) and Acfer 094 (C3.0, ungrouped). Results show that the DOM samples have refractory inclusion populations that are similar to each other but not typical of CO3 chondrites; main differences are that the DOM samples are slightly richer in inclusions in general and, more specifically, in the proportions of grossite‐bearing inclusions. In DOM 08004 and DOM 08006, 12.4% and 6.6%, respectively, of the inclusions are grossite‐bearing. This is higher than the proportion found in Acfer 094 (5.2%), whereas none were found in ALHA77307. Like those in Acfer 094, DOM inclusions are small (mostly <100 μm across) and fine‐grained, and thin rims of aluminous diopside±melilite are very common. Also like Acfer 094, most phases in the DOM inclusions have FeO contents higher than expected for primary refractory phases. In addition to typical inclusions, some unusual ones were found in DOM 08004, including a perovskite‐rich one with a rare, recently reported Sc‐, Al‐oxide and davisite; a very grossite‐rich inclusion with a small, hibonite‐rich core enclosed in a grossite mantle; and a relict, grossite‐rich inclusion enclosed in an Al‐rich chondrule. The CAI populations in the DOM samples are similar to each other and, based on grossite abundances, FeO enrichments and occurrences of rims are more Acfer 094‐like than CO3‐like. An earlier history on an FeO‐rich parent was previously favored over nebular equilibria or in situ reactions to account for FeO enrichments in CAIs in the otherwise pristine chondrite Acfer 094, and a similar history is indicated for the DOM CAIs. Acfer 094, DOM 08004 and 08006 might best be classified as a new subgroup of CO3 chondrites.
A multi‐locus approach resolves the phylogenetic relationships of the Simulium asakoae and Simulium ceylonicum species groups in Malaysia: evidence for distinct evolutionary lineages
Authors: LOW V. L. , TAKAOKA H. , ADLER P. H. , YA'COB Z. , NORMA‐RASHID Y. , CHEN C. D. , SOFIAN‐AZIRUN M.
Published: May 2015

A multi‐locus approach was used to examine the DNA sequences of 10 nominal species of blackfly in the Simulium subgenus Gomphostilbia (Diptera: Simuliidae) in Malaysia. Molecular data were acquired from partial DNA sequences of the mitochondria‐encoded cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA genes, and the nuclear‐encoded 18S rRNA and 28S rRNA genes. No single gene, nor the concatenated gene set, resolved all species or all relationships. However, all morphologically established species were supported by at least one gene. The multi‐locus sequence analysis revealed two distinct evolutionary lineages, conforming to the morphotaxonomically recognized Simulium asakoae and Simulium ceylonicum species groups.
Long‐term survival of a patient with carcinomatous meningitis caused by non‐small cell lung cancer: The advantage of absence of primary tumor recurrence
Authors: Hara Kenju , Miyata Hajime , Enomoto Katsuhiko , Nishimaki Keiichi , Ishiguro Hideaki
Published: May 2015

The prognosis of carcinomatous meningitis is very poor, although epidermal growth factor receptor‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors have recently improved it. A 56‐year‐old woman was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma of the lung and underwent left lobectomy. Four years after the operation, she was diagnosed with carcinomatous meningitis. There was no recurrence of lung cancer at the time of initial carcinomatous meningitis diagnosis. Epidermal growth factor receptor‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors were not used for this patient, because epidermal growth factor receptor mutations were not detected. She was treated by whole‐brain radiation therapy and intrathecal chemotherapy, resulting in a very long‐term survival of 889 days (29.6 months) from diagnosis of carcinomatous meningitis. We can expect long‐term survival in patients with carcinomatous meningitis from non‐small cell lung cancer, especially in patients without the primary tumor recurrence at the time of diagnosis, even without treatment with epidermal growth factor receptor‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Isolated pontine involvement of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome with concomitant ischemic cerebral infarction
Authors: Watanabe Yuji , Suzuki Keisuke , Takekawa Hidehiro , Numao Ayaka , Asakawa Yohei , Fujita Hiroaki , Nakamura Toshiki , Okamura Madoka , Hirata Koichi
Published: May 2015

In posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, isolated involvement of the brainstem is rare. In addition, there have been a few reports describing a concomitant occurrence of stroke and a brainstem variant of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. We here report a patient with isolated pontine involvement of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome accompanied by fresh ischemic cerebral infarction in the left corona radiata detected by brain magnetic resonance imaging. Follow‐up brain magnetic resonance imaging on hospital day 14 showed a marked improvement of signal changes in the pons; however, cerebral infarction in the left corona radiata enlarged despite medical treatment. Although rare, clinicians should be aware of the co‐occurrence of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome and ischemic infarctions, especially in patients with untreated/uncontrolled hypertension and chronic kidney disease. We discuss the possible mechanism related to brainstem posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome and stroke, reviewing the previous case reports.
Effects of stomata clustering on leaf gas exchange
Authors: Lehmann Peter , Or Dani
Published: May 2015

A general theoretical framework for quantifying the stomatal clustering effects on leaf gaseous diffusive conductance was developed and tested. The theory accounts for stomatal spacing and interactions among ‘gaseous concentration shells’. The theory was tested using the unique measurements of Dow et al. (2014) that have shown lower leaf diffusive conductance for a genotype of Arabidopsis thaliana with clustered stomata relative to uniformly distributed stomata of similar size and density.

The model accounts for gaseous diffusion: through stomatal pores; via concentration shells forming at pore apertures that vary with stomata spacing and are thus altered by clustering; and across the adjacent air boundary layer. Analytical approximations were derived and validated using a numerical model for 3D diffusion equation.

Stomata clustering increases the interactions among concentration shells resulting in larger diffusive resistance that may reduce fluxes by 5–15%. A similar reduction in conductance was found for clusters formed by networks of veins. The study resolves ambiguities found in the literature concerning stomata end‐corrections and stomatal shape, and provides a new stomata density threshold for diffusive interactions of overlapping vapor shells.

The predicted reduction in gaseous exchange due to clustering, suggests that guard cell function is impaired, limiting stomatal aperture opening.
micro RNA 172 (miR172) signals epidermal infection and is expressed in cells primed for bacterial invasion in Lotus japonicus roots and nodules
Authors: Holt Dennis B. , Gupta Vikas , Meyer Dörte , Abel Nikolaj B. , Andersen Stig U. , Stougaard Jens , Markmann Katharina
Published: May 2015

Legumes interact with rhizobial bacteria to form nitrogen‐fixing root nodules. Host signalling following mutual recognition ensures a specific response, but is only partially understood. Focusing on the stage of epidermal infection with Mesorhizobium loti, we analysed endogenous small RNAs (sRNAs) of the model legume Lotus japonicus to investigate their involvement in host response regulation.

We used Illumina sequencing to annotate the L. japonicus sRNA‐ome and isolate infection‐responsive sRNAs, followed by candidate‐based functional characterization.

Sequences from four libraries revealed 219 novel L. japonicus micro RNAs (miRNAs) from 114 newly assigned families, and 76 infection‐responsive sRNAs. Unlike infection‐associated coding genes such as NODULE INCEPTION (NIN), a micro RNA 172 (miR172) isoform showed strong accumulation in dependency of both Nodulation (Nod) factor and compatible rhizobia. The genetics of miR172 induction support the existence of distinct epidermal and cortical signalling events. MIR172a promoter activity followed a previously unseen pattern preceding infection thread progression in epidermal and cortical cells. Nodule‐associated miR172a expression was infection‐independent, representing the second of two genetically separable activity waves.

The combined data provide a valuable resource for further study, and identify miR172 as an sRNA marking successful epidermal infection. We show that miR172 acts upstream of several APETALA2‐type (AP2) transcription factors, and suggest that it has a role in fine‐tuning AP2 levels during bacterial symbiosis.
Process and pattern in cichlid radiations – inferences for understanding unusually high rates of evolutionary diversification
Authors: Seehausen Ole
Published: May 2015

The cichlid fish radiations in the African Great Lakes differ from all other known cases of rapid speciation in vertebrates by their spectacular trophic diversity and richness of sympatric species, comparable to the most rapid angiosperm radiations. I review factors that may have facilitated these radiations and compare these with insights from recent work on plant radiations. Work to date suggests that it was a coincidence of ecological opportunity, intrinsic ecological versatility and genomic flexibility, rapidly evolving behavioral mate choice and large amounts of standing genetic variation that permitted these spectacular fish radiations. I propose that spatially orthogonal gradients in the fit of phenotypes to the environment facilitate speciation because they allow colonization of alternative fitness peaks during clinal speciation despite local disruptive selection. Such gradients are manifold in lakes because of the interaction of water depth as an omnipresent third spatial dimension with other fitness‐relevant variables. I introduce a conceptual model of adaptive radiation that integrates these elements and discuss its applicability to, and predictions for, plant radiations.
The AVR2–SIX5 gene pair is required to activate I‐2‐mediated immunity in tomato
Authors: Ma Lisong , Houterman Petra M. , Gawehns Fleur , Cao Lingxue , Sillo Fabiano , Richter Hanna , Clavijo‐Ortiz Myriam J. , Schmidt Sarah M. , Boeren Sjef , Vervoort Jacques , Cornelissen Ben J. C. , Rep Martijn , Takken Frank L. W.
Published: May 2015

Plant‐invading microbes betray their presence to a plant by exposure of antigenic molecules such as small, secreted proteins called ‘effectors’. In Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (Fol) we identified a pair of effector gene candidates, AVR2‐SIX5, whose expression is controlled by a shared promoter.

The pathogenicity of AVR2 and SIX5 Fol knockouts was assessed on susceptible and resistant tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) plants carrying I‐2. The I‐2 NB‐LRR protein confers resistance to Fol races carrying AVR2.

Like Avr2, Six5 was found to be required for full virulence on susceptible plants. Unexpectedly, each knockout could breach I‐2‐mediated disease resistance. So whereas Avr2 is sufficient to induce I‐2‐mediated cell death, Avr2 and Six5 are both required for resistance. Avr2 and Six5 interact in yeast two‐hybrid assays as well as in planta. Six5 and Avr2 accumulate in xylem sap of plants infected with the reciprocal knockouts, showing that lack of I‐2 activation is not due to a lack of Avr2 accumulation in the SIX5 mutant.

The effector repertoire of a pathogen determines its host specificity and its ability to manipulate plant immunity. Our findings challenge an oversimplified interpretation of the gene‐for‐gene model by showing requirement of two fungal genes for immunity conferred by one resistance gene.
Maxillary molar distalization therapy in adult patients: a multicentre study
Authors: Fontana M. , Cozzani M. , Mutinelli S. , Spena R. , Caprioglio A.
Published: May 2015

Structured Abstract

Objectives

To evaluate dento‐skeletal changes following conventional anchorage molar distalization therapy in adult patients.

Setting and sample population

Thirty‐three patients (25 women, mean age 23 years 1 months ± 3 months; 8 men, mean age 28 years 3 months ± 7 months) were recruited from 4 Board Certified specialists. All subjects underwent molar distalization therapy using intra‐oral distalizing appliances.

Subjects and methods

Cephalometric headfilms were available for all subjects before (T1) and at the end of comprehensive treatment (T2). The initial and final measurements and treatment changes were compared by means of a paired t‐test.

Results

Mean total treatment time was 3 years 2 months ± 6 months. Maxillary first molar distalized 2.9 ± 0.6 mm contributing 64.4% to Class II molar correction, whereas mandibular first molar showed a concomitant mesial movement of 1.6 ± 0.5 mm. Maxillary incisors retroclined an average of 5.8° ± 3.9°, lower incisors proclined 4.1° ± 1.1° and the occlusal plane rotated downwards and backwards 1.8° ± 2.1°. Clockwise rotation of the mandible (1.7° ± 0.5°) and increase in lower facial height (2.5 ± 1.5 mm) were also observed.

Conclusions

Maxillary molar distalization therapy can be successfully performed in adult patients despite a slight increase in vertical facial dimension should be considered.
Sampling bias is a challenge for quantifying specialization and network structure: lessons from a quantitative niche model
Authors: Fründ Jochen , McCann Kevin S. , Williams Neal M.
Published: May 2015

Network approaches have become a popular tool for understanding ecological complexity in a changing world. Many network descriptors relate directly or indirectly to specialization, which is a central concept in ecology and measured in different ways. Unfortunately, quantification of specialization and network structure using field data can suffer from sampling effects. Previous studies evaluating such sampling effects either used field data where the true network structure is unknown, or they simulated sampling based on completely generalized interactions. Here, we used a quantitative niche model to generate bipartite networks representing a wide range of specialization and evaluated potential sampling biases for a large set of specialization and network metrics for different network sizes. We show that with sample sizes realistic for species‐rich networks, all metrics are biased towards overestimating specialization (and underestimating generalization and niche overlap). Importantly, this sampling bias depends on the true degree of specialization and is strongest for generalized networks. We show that methods used for empirical data may misrepresent sampling bias: null models simulating generalized interactions may overestimate bias, whereas richness estimators may strongly overestimate sampling completeness. Some network metrics are barely related between small and large sub‐samples of the same network and thus may often not be meaningful. Small samples also overestimate interspecific variation of specialization within generalized networks. While new approaches to deal with these challenges have to be developed, we also identify metrics that are relatively unbiased and fairly consistent across sampling intensities and we identify a provisional rule of thumb for the number of observations required for accurate estimates. Our quantitative niche model can help understand variation in network structure capturing both sampling effects and biological meaning. This is needed to connect network science to fundamental ecological theory and to give robust quantitative answers for applied ecological problems.
Antagonistic indirect interactions between large and small conspecific prey via a heterospecific predator
Authors: Yamaguchi Aya , Kishida Osamu
Published: May 2015

Intrapopulation size variation strongly influences ecological interactions because individuals belonging to different size groups have distinct functions. Most demonstrations of the impacts of size variation in trophic systems have focused on size variation in predator species, and the consequences of size variation in prey species are less well understood. We investigated how prey size structure shapes intra‐ and interspecific interactions in experiments with a gape‐limited predator (larvae of the salamander Hynobius retardatus) and its heterospecific prey (frog tadpoles, Rana pirica). We found that large and small tadpole size groups each increased mortality in the other group by intensifying salamander predation; this type of indirect interactions is called apparent competition. The antagonistic impacts on the prey size groups were caused by different size‐specific mechanisms. By consuming small tadpoles, the salamanders grew large enough to consume large tadpoles. The activity of large tadpoles, by increasing the activity of the small tadpoles, may increase the number of encounters with the predator and thus small tadpole mortality. These results suggest that the magnitude of a predator's ecological role, such as whether a top–down trophic cascade is initiated, depends on size variation in its heterospecific prey.
Cerebral white matter volume changes in patients with obsessive–compulsive disorder: Voxel‐based morphometry
Authors: Park Shin‐Eui , Jeong Gwang‐Woo
Published: May 2015

Aims

We carried out a voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) study to evaluate cerebral white matter (WM) volume alteration in obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) and its correlation with the scores of the Yale–Brown Obsessive–Compulsive Scale (Y‐BOCS).

Methods

Fourteen patients with OCD, who were diagnosed using the DSM‐IV‐TR, and 14 age‐matched healthy controls participated. The high‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging data were analyzed by voxel‐based morphometry and Statistical Parametric Mapping 8.

Results

There was no significant difference in the total intracranial volumes between OCD patients and healthy controls. However, patients with OCD showed significantly increased WM volumes in the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, middle frontal gyrus, precuneus, and inferior parietal lobule compared with healthy controls. In addition, the OCD patients showed a positive correlation between the WM volumes of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and Y‐BOCS scores (r = 0.334, P = 0.03 and Pearson's correlation coefficient = 0.58) rating for the severity of OCD symptoms.

Conclusions

WM volume variations of the specific brain regions in patients with OCD will be helpful to understand the neural connectivity associated with a symptom of OCD. Furthermore, the findings would be valuable to aid the diagnostic accuracy of OCD in connection with morphometric magnetic resonance imaging analysis.
Brain correlates of alexithymia in eating disorders: A voxel‐based morphometry study
Authors: D'Agata Federico , Caroppo Paola , Amianto Federico , Spalatro Angela , Caglio Marcella M. , Bergui Mauro , Lavagnino Luca , Righi Dorico , Abbate‐Daga Giovanni , Pinessi Lorenzo , Mortara Paolo , Fassino Secondo
Published: May 2015

Aims

Alexithymia is a personality trait that consists of difficulty in identifying and acknowledging one's own and others' feelings. Recent studies reported that alexithymia is present in both anorexia (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN). Brain morphological studies on healthy subjects showed that alexithymia correlates with several brain regions involved in emotions processing. The aim of this study was to investigate the anatomical correlates of alexithymia in AN and BN.

Methods

We performed a voxel‐based morphometry study on 21 patients with AN and 18 with BN. Seventeen healthy subjects were used as a control group. Alexithymia, depression and anxiety were assessed with self‐administered questionnaires and correlated to gray matter (GM) density in each group.

Results

In BN, alexithymia was correlated with the GM of the parietal lobe, in particular of the right angular gyrus. The correlation was predominantly linked with Difficulty Describing Feelings. In AN, we did not find correlations between GM and alexithymia.

Conclusions

In BN, our results support the hypothesis that this trait may represent a relevant pathogenic or maintenance factor that contributes to relational difficulties, present in this pathology. In AN, the lack of correlation between GM volume and alexithymia may be influenced by atrophy in several brain regions that in turn can be, as previously reported, a consequence of caloric restriction. Also, the nature of alexithymia may be different from that of BN and controls and this trait could be secondary to a psychopathologic process specific to AN.
Regressing Eruptive Disseminated Spitz Nevi
Authors: Bhoyrul Bevin , Tang Diana Y. L. , Carling Edward E. , Harikumar Chidambara , Newton‐Bishop Julia , Carmichael Andrew J.
Published: May 2015

The eruptive disseminated form of Spitz nevi (EDSN) is the rarest variant, is cosmetically disabling, and has a poorly documented natural history. We report the case of a 4‐year‐old boy with more than 100 Spitz nevi that have significantly regressed 8 years after onset. There is no satisfactory treatment for EDSN. There have been no reports of supervening malignancy. Our case illustrates the possibility of regression of EDSN, corroborating long‐term observation as a safe and acceptable management option.
Body Image in Children with Morphea: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mills Sarah D. , Fox Rina S. , Malcarne Vanessa L.
Published: May 2015

This systematic review was conducted to evaluate the present state of body image research in children with morphea and the extent of body image distress in this population. Only five studies met inclusion criteria. Disease‐related skin changes in children with morphea typically were associated with, at most, mild levels of body image distress.
Unilateral Nipple Eczema in Children: Report of Five Cases and Literature Review
Authors: Jenkins David , Cooper Susan M. , McPherson Tess
Published: May 2015

Bilateral nipple eczema on the background of atopy is not an uncommon problem and is a minor criterion in some diagnostic systems for atopic dermatitis (AD), but unilateral atopic nipple eczema is underrecognized and often causes clinical concern. We present the first case series of children with unilateral atopic nipple eczema and discuss the clinical aspects of this unusual distribution.
Religious Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Authors: Goldenberg Alina , Matiz Catalina , Eichenfield Lawrence F.
Published: May 2015

Henna, derived from a combination of natural leaves and coloring additives, is a common decorative dye traditionally used in many Islamic religious celebrations. Para‐phenylenediamine (PPD), a major component of black henna tattoo, is a strong sensitizer and common allergen. We report a case of severe connubial allergic contact dermatitis after black henna heterotransfer in a girl.
Bathing Frequency Recommendations for Children with Atopic Dermatitis: Results of Three Observational Pilot Surveys
Authors: Cardona Ivan D. , Kempe Erin , Hatzenbeuhler John R. , Antaya Richard J. , Cohen Bernard , Jain Neal
Published: May 2015

The results from three online surveys of dermatologists, allergists and immunologists, and primary care physicians (PCPs) regarding routine bathing frequency recommendations for children with atopic dermatitis (AD) are presented. The results suggest that PCPs approach bathing frequency differently than specialists, with PCPs recommending daily bathing less than 50% of the time and specialists recommending daily bathing more than 50% of the time. Because there is lack of consensus, studies are needed to evaluate whether bathing frequency makes a clinical difference in the treatment of pediatric AD.
Oxygenation decreases elastin secretion from rat ductus arteriosus smooth muscle cells
Authors: Kawakami Shoji , Minamisawa Susumu
Published: May 2015

Background

The ductus arteriosus (DA), a fetal arterial connection between the main pulmonary artery and the descending aorta, normally closes immediately after birth. The oxygen concentration in the blood rises after birth, and in the DA this increase in oxygen concentration causes functional closure, which is induced by smooth muscle contraction. Previous studies have demonstrated that hypoxia and/or oxygenation affect vascular remodeling of various vessels. Therefore, we hypothesized that the rise in oxygen concentration would affect the vascular structure of the DA due to production of proteins secreted from DA smooth muscle cells (SMC).

Methods and Results

Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry was used to comprehensively investigate the secreted proteins in the supernatant of rat DA SMC harvested under hypoxic conditions (1% oxygen) or under normoxic conditions (21% oxygen). We found that the rise in oxygen concentration reduced the secretion of elastin from DA SMC. On reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, the expression of elastin mRNA was not significantly changed in DA SMC from hypoxic to normoxic conditions.

Conclusions

Given that elastin forms internal elastic lamina and elastic fibers in the vascular muscle layers, and that a rise in oxygen concentration reduced the secretion of elastin, this suggests that the rise in blood oxygen concentration after birth reduces the secretion of elastin, and therefore may play a role in DA structural remodeling after birth.
Rethinking Meta‐Analysis: Applications for Air Pollution Data and Beyond
Authors: Goodman Julie E. , Petito Boyce Catherine , Sax Sonja N. , Beyer Leslie A. , Prueitt Robyn L.
Published: May 2015

Meta‐analyses offer a rigorous and transparent systematic framework for synthesizing data that can be used for a wide range of research areas, study designs, and data types. Both the outcome of meta‐analyses and the meta‐analysis process itself can yield useful insights for answering scientific questions and making policy decisions. Development of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards illustrates many potential applications of meta‐analysis. These applications demonstrate the strengths and limitations of meta‐analysis, issues that arise in various data realms, how meta‐analysis design choices can influence interpretation of results, and how meta‐analysis can be used to address bias and heterogeneity. Reviewing available data from a meta‐analysis perspective can provide a useful framework and impetus for identifying and refining strategies for future research. Moreover, increased pervasiveness of a meta‐analysis mindset—focusing on how the pieces of the research puzzle fit together—would benefit scientific research and data syntheses regardless of whether or not a quantitative meta‐analysis is undertaken. While an individual meta‐analysis can only synthesize studies addressing the same research question, the results of separate meta‐analyses can be combined to address a question encompassing multiple data types. This observation applies to any scientific or policy area where information from a variety of disciplines must be considered to address a broader research question.
Damage‐Associated Molecular Patterns in the Course of Lung Cancer – A Review
Authors: Łagiedo M. , Sikora J. , Kaczmarek M.
Published: May 2015

More than 20 years ago, the ‘danger theory’ was proposed which explains why potent immune responses with no microbial components are elicited against tissue transplants, injuries, tumours and autoimmune diseases. It states that the immune system can distinguish between dangerous and innocuous endogenous signals. In response to trauma or other types of tissue and cell damage, certain molecules that function inside the cell are released or secreted from damaged or dying cells. Such mechanisms initiate an immune response in the absence of infection. These immunostimulatory molecules were named damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). In this article, we will review the available data on the influence of select DAMPs on lung cancer cells and tumour microenvironments. We will also summarize the current information regarding the interactions between lung cancer‐associated DAMPs and their toll‐like receptors.
Haemodialysis in Diabetic Patients Modulates Inflammatory Cytokine Profile and T Cell Activation Status
Authors: Almeida A. , Lourenço O. , Fonseca A. M.
Published: May 2015

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a common complication in patients with diabetes, and most of them need renal replacement therapy such as haemodialysis (HD). These patients have a high tendency to develop infections and exhibit anomalies in the immune system. The objective of this study was to assess the expression of activation‐related markers on T cells, as well as to quantify inflammatory cytokines, before and after a single HD session in DN patients. The study involved DN patients under HD treatment who signed an informed consent form. Blood samples before and after one HD session were collected, to analyse the expression of CD25, CD69 and CD71 in T cells. We also quantified IL‐12p70, IL‐8, IL‐10, IL‐1β, TNF‐α and IL‐6 in serum samples using the cytometric bead array technique. After the HD session, there was an increase in the CD4/CD8 ratio due to significant alterations in both subsets. The relative percentage of CD25+ cells and CD8+ CD25+ increased significantly after the HD session, while the relative percentage of CD69 T cells decreased. There was a significant decrease in the CD25 mean fluorescence intensity values for CD4+ T, as well as in the case of CD71 in T cells after the HD session. Regarding cytokine synthesis, we found a significant increase in IL‐10 and IL‐6 and a decrease in IL‐8 after HD session. This study showed that a HD session in DN patients affects the T cell activation status in the two major subpopulations and differentially modulates the production of inflammatory cytokines.
Preschool Children's Anticipation of Recipients' Emotions Affects Their Resource Allocation
Authors: Paulus Markus , Moore Chris
Published: May 2015

The present study investigated the impact of preschoolers' anticipation of recipients' emotions on their resource allocation decisions. Three‐ to six‐year‐old children participated in one of three different scenarios before performing a resource allocation task. In the Other condition, children were led to think about another person's emotions when being shared with or not being shared with. In the Self condition, children were led to think about their own emotion when being shared with or not being shared with. In an epistemic control condition, children were asked to think about another person's knowledge state. The results showed that children were able to attribute different emotions to the respective recipient when being shared with or not being shared with. Children in the Other condition and the Self condition were more likely to allocate resources to the other when decisions were not associated with costs. Moreover, correlational analyses demonstrated that the more negatively children rated the emotion of the recipient when not being shared with the more they were to allocate resources to the recipient. This indicates that children's inclination to allocate resources to another person can be promoted by their awareness of a recipient's negative emotions when not being shared with.
Harbingers of Migration Regression: Global Trends and a Mexican Case Study*
Authors: Jones Richard C.
Published: May 2015

Objectives

The question raised here is whether global labor migration has reached its high‐water mark and will not in fact recover its prerecession magnitudes. This study examines this question, and the underlying causes of migration regression, reviewing studies at the international level and carrying out a case study of Jerezmunicipio, Zacatecas, Mexico.

Methods

Two surveys in Jerez—of 242 randomly selected households in six towns in 1995, and of 304 households in the same towns in 2009—provide a cross‐section of conditions before and after U.S. economic setbacks beginning around 2000.

Results

The results point to a reduction in migration to the United States over the period. Furthermore, in the later period, lower fertility, higher educational attainment, and higher household income were all associated with lower levels of active U.S. migration, and income returns to local education were positive, whereas the income returns to U.S. migration were negative.

Conclusions

The results for Jerez are consistent with trends elsewhere in Mexico and those within leading sending nations globally, and they suggest a regression in future migration from these countries.
Isotopically diverse rhyolites coeval with the Columbia River Flood Basalts: evidence for mantle plume interaction with the continental crust
Authors: Colón Dylan P. , Bindeman Ilya N. , Stern Richard A. , Fisher Christopher M.
Published: May 2015

The Columbia River Flood Basalts (CRB) of the northwestern USA are coeval with eruptions of several thousand km3 of rhyolite. A broad survey of major phenocryst oxygen isotopes and of O and Hf isotopes in zircons from these rhyolites reveals significant diversity in inferred δ18Omelt values, ranging from +1.9 to +10.5‰ (SMOW), and in zircon Hf isotope compositions, which range from εHf = −39 to +9. This newly identified isotopic diversity shows that the syn‐CRB rhyolites were derived from high‐percentage melting of the crust. Low‐δ18O rhyolites, which fingerprint the melting of hydrothermally altered crust, are concentrated at the edge of the North American craton. This suggests that the conditions of crustal heating, faulting, and hydrothermal alteration required for the production of these rhyolites were concentrated there by the contrasts in crustal thickness and rheology associated with the boundary between the North American craton and younger accreted terranes.
Late Miocene to Early Pliocene blueschist from Taiwan and its exhumation via forearc extraction
Authors: Sandmann Sascha , Nagel Thorsten J. , Froitzheim Nikolaus , Ustaszewski Kamil , Münker Carsten
Published: May 2015

Blueschist facies rocks in the Yuli Belt of Taiwan's Central Range record ongoing subduction of the Eurasian plate. We present a prograde Lu–Hf garnet–whole‐rock age of 5.1 ± 1.7 Ma from a retrogressed blueschist in the Yuli Belt. This age is considerably younger than the previously assumed age of 14–8 Ma for high‐pressure metamorphism in the Yuli Belt and represents the youngest Lu–Hf garnet age ever recorded for blueschist facies metamorphism. The age sheds new light on the palaeogeographic origin and exhumation scenario of the Yuli Belt. We propose that the Yuli Belt originated from the ocean–continent boundary of the Chinese passive margin. It was subducted eastward during collision with the Luzon island arc and rapidly exhumed when the forearc lithosphere was removed from above the continental slab by discrete subduction (extraction). This process reduces the pressure above the continental slab and may prompt the ascent of subducted crust into the opening gap. Thus, it can control the exhumation of high‐pressure rocks.
Successful treatment of toxoplasmic encephalitis diagnosed early by polymerase chain reaction after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: two case reports and review of the literature
Authors: Miyagi T. , Itonaga H. , Aosai F. , Taguchi J. , Norose K. , Mochizuki K. , Fujii H. , Furumoto A. , Ohama M. , Karimata K. , Yamanoha A. , Taniguchi H. , Sato S. , Taira N. , Moriuchi Y. , Fukushima T. , Masuzaki H. , Miyazaki Y.
Published: May 2015

Toxoplasmic encephalitis represents a rare, but often fatal infection after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based preemptive therapy is considered promising for this disease, but is not routinely applied, especially in low seroprevalence countries including Japan. We encountered 2 cases of toxoplasmic encephalitis after transplantation that were successfully treated. The diagnosis of toxoplasmic encephalitis in these cases was confirmed by PCR testing when neurological symptoms were observed. Both patients received pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine treatments within 2 weeks of the development of neurological symptoms, and remained free of recurrence for 32 and 12 months. These results emphasized the importance of the PCR test and immediate treatment after diagnosis for the management of toxoplasmic encephalitis.
A nationwide survey of the use of plerixafor in patients with lymphoid malignancies who mobilize poorly demonstrates the predominant use of the “on‐demand” scheme of administration at French autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant programs
Authors: Chabannon Christian , Bijou Fontanet , Miclea Jean‐Michel , Milpied Noel , Grouin Jean‐Marie , Mohty Mohamad
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

High‐dose chemotherapy supported with autologous stem cell transplantation is a standard therapeutic option for a subset of patients with lymphoid malignancies. Cell procurement is nowadays done almost exclusively through cytapheresis, after mobilization of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) from the marrow to peripheral blood (PB). The egress of HSPCs out of hematopoietic niches occurs in various physiologic or nonhomeostatic situations; pharmacologic approaches include the administration of acutely myelosuppressive agents or hematopoietic growth factors such as recombinant human granulocyte–colony‐stimulating factor (rHuG‐CSF). The introduction of plerixafor, a first‐of‐its‐class molecule that reversibly inhibits the interaction between the chemokine CXCL‐12 (also known as SDF‐1) and its receptor CXCR‐4, has offered new opportunities for the so‐called “poor mobilizers” who achieve insufficient mobilization and/or collection with conventional approaches.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Because of the lack of consensus on a definition for poor mobilizers and the relatively high cost of plerixafor, French competent authorities have mandated a postmarketing survey on its use in routine practice.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

We report here the results of this nationwide survey that confirms the clinical efficacy of plerixafor, even in the subset of patients who barely increased PB CD34+ cell count in response to rHuG‐CSF–containing mobilization regimen. Furthermore, analysis of this registry showed that despite heterogeneity in medical practices, the early—“on‐demand” or “preemptive”—introduction of plerixafor was widely used and did not result in an excess of prescriptions, beyond its expected use at the time when marketing authorization was granted.
Quality of the hematopoietic stem cell graft affects the clinical outcome of allogeneic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Watz Emma , Remberger Mats , Ringden Olle , Ljungman Per , Sundin Mikael , Mattsson Jonas , Uhlin Michael
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

In approximately two‐thirds of patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) no suitable related donor can be identified but an unrelated HLA‐matched donor can be found through international donor registries. HSCT grafts from unrelated donors are commonly collected at distant sites. Therefore, graft storage and transportation becomes crucial in the HSCT process. We aimed to study the impact of graft quality on clinical outcome and identify factors affecting graft quality.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We investigated the influence of graft quality on the clinical outcome in 144 HSCT patients. Graft quality was assessed by determining the viability (7‐aminoactinomycin D [7AAD]) on a frozen‐thawed sample from the peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) graft.

RESULTS

Patients receiving PBSCs with inferior quality (i.e., viability < 64% in the frozen‐thawed sample) more frequently developed acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGVHD) Grades I to IV than patients receiving grafts with better quality (p = 0.025). The transplant‐related mortality (TRM) was higher in the group receiving grafts with lower viability (p = 0.03). The viability of the frozen‐thawed samples was highly variable (median, 64%; range, 24%‐96%). No correlation could be observed when comparing the viability in newly arrived PBSC grafts to frozen‐thawed vials. Grafts with white blood cell (WBC) count of more than 300 × 109/L had lower viability than those with lower WBC counts (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Graft quality affects clinical outcome. Patients receiving grafts with inferior quality had more aGVHD and higher TRM. There is a need for better analyses for assessing graft quality in routine HSCT care; analysis using 7AAD on fresh PBSC grafts is not sufficient.