bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of social defeat on dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area in male and female California mice
Authors: Greenberg Gian D. , Steinman Michael Q. , Doig Ian E. , Hao Rebecca , Trainor Brian C. 
Published: October 2015

AbstractDopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) have important functions related to rewards but are also activated in aversive contexts. Electrophysiology studies suggest that the degree to which VTA dopamine neurons respond to noxious stimuli is topographically organized across the dorsal–ventral extent. We used c‐fos immunohistochemistry to examine the responses of VTA dopamine neurons in contexts of social defeat and social approach. Studying monogamous California mice (Peromyscus californicus) allowed us to observe the effects of social defeat on both males and females. Females exposed to three episodes of defeat, but not a single episode, had more tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)/c‐fos‐positive cells in the ventral (but not dorsal) VTA compared with controls. This observation suggests that repeated exposure to aversive contexts is necessary to trigger activation of VTA dopamine neurons. Defeat did not affect TH/c‐fos colocalizations in males. We also examined the long‐term effects of defeat on c‐fos expression in a social interaction test. As previously reported, defeat reduced social interaction in females but not males. Surprisingly, there were no effects of defeat stress on TH/c‐fos colocalizations in any subregion of the VTA. However, females had more TH/c‐fos‐positive cells than males across the entire VTA, and also had greater c‐fos‐positive cell counts in posterior subregions of the nucleus accumbens shell. Our results show that dopamine neurons in the VTA are more responsive to social contexts in females and that the ventral VTA in particular is sensitive to aversive contexts.
Multivariate regulation of soil CO2 and N2O pulse emissions from agricultural soils
Authors: Liang Liyin L. , Grantz David A. , Jenerette G. Darrel 
Published: October 2015

AbstractClimate and land‐use models project increasing occurrence of high temperature and water deficit in both agricultural production systems and terrestrial ecosystems. Episodic soil wetting and subsequent drying may increase the occurrence and magnitude of pulsed biogeochemical activity, affecting carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycles and influencing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In this study, we provide the first data to explore the responses of carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) fluxes to (i) temperature, (ii) soil water content as percent water holding capacity (%WHC), (iii) substrate availability throughout, and (iv) multiple soil drying and rewetting (DW) events. Each of these factors and their interactions exerted effects on GHG emissions over a range of four (CO2) and six (N2O) orders of magnitude. Maximal CO2 and N2O fluxes were observed in environments combining intermediate %WHC, elevated temperature, and sufficient substrate availability. Amendments of C and N and their interactions significantly affected CO2 and N2O fluxes and altered their temperature sensitivities (Q10) over successive DW cycles. C amendments significantly enhanced CO2 flux, reduced N2O flux, and decreased the Q10 of both. N amendments had no effect on CO2 flux and increased N2O flux, while significantly depressing the Q10 for CO2, and having no effect on the Q10 for N2O. The dynamics across DW cycles could be attributed to changes in soil microbial communities as the different responses to wetting events in specific group of microorganisms, to the altered substrate availabilities, or to both. The complex interactions among parameters influencing trace gas fluxes should be incorporated into next generation earth system models to improve estimation of GHG emissions.
Postoperative quality of life following single‐visit root canal treatment performed by rotary or reciprocating instrumentation: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Pasqualini D. , Corbella S. , Alovisi M. , Taschieri S. , Del Fabbro M. , Migliaretti G. , Carpegna G. C. , Scotti N. , Berutti E. 
Published: October 2015

AbstractAimTo compare the impact of rotary and reciprocating instrumentation on postoperative quality of life (POQoL) after single‐visit primary root canal treatment.MethodologyA randomized controlled clinical trial was designed and carried out in a University endodontic practice in northern Italy. Healthy subjects with asymptomatic irreversible pulpitis, symptomatic irreversible pulpitis or pulp necrosis with or without apical periodontitis (symptomatic or asymptomatic) scheduled for primary root canal treatment were enrolled. Single‐visit root canal treatment was performed with ProTaper™ S1‐S2‐F1‐F2 (rotary group, n = 23) and WaveOne™ Primary (reciprocating group, n = 24). Irrigation was performed with 5% NaOCl and 10% EDTA. Root canal filling was performed with the continuous‐wave technique and ZOE sealer. POQoL indicators were evaluated for 7 days post‐treatment. The variation of each indicator over time was compared using anova for repeated measures (P < 0.05). The impact of each variable on POQoL was analysed with a multivariate logistic regression model (P < 0.05).ResultsPain curves demonstrated a more favourable time‐trend in the rotary group (mean, P = 0.077; maximum, P = 0.015). Difficulty in eating (P = 0.017), in performing daily activities (P = 0.023), in sleeping (P = 0.021) and in social relations (P = 0.077), was more evident in the reciprocating group. Patients' perception of the impact of treatment on POQoL was more favourable in the rotary group (P = 0.006). Multirooted tooth type and pre‐existing periradicular inflammation were associated with a decrease in POQoL.ConclusionReciprocating instrumentation affected POQoL to a greater extent than rotary instrumentation.
Mysterious chronic urticaria caused by Blastocystis spp.?
Authors: Lepczyńska Małgorzata , Chen Wen‐Chieh , Dzika Ewa 
Published: October 2015

AbstractSpecies of the genus Blastocystis, which are single‐cell, intestinal protozoan parasites of humans and animals, remain mysterious, with unclear clinical and epidemiologic significance. In recent years, many researchers have suggested a possible connection between Blastocystis spp. infection and chronic urticaria. In the present article, we review the literature and discuss the possible associations between the clinical symptomatology and pathogenicity of this organism in terms of its subtypes, morphologic forms, genetic diversity, and interactions with other intestinal microbiota.
The Use of Noninvasive Vagal Nerve Stimulation to Inhibit Sympathetically Induced Sinus Node Acceleration: A Potential Therapeutic Approach for Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia
Authors: ZHOU XIAOYA , ZHOU LIPING , WANG SONGYUN , YU LILEI , WANG ZHUO , HUANG BING , CHEN MINGXIAN , WAN JUN , JIANG HONG 
Published: October 2015

NVNS and Sympathetically Induced Sinus Node AccelerationBackgroundHyperactivity of the cardiac sympathetic nervous system may underlie the pathogenesis of inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST). Studies have proven that cervical vagal stimulation could inhibit stellate ganglion neural activity.SubjectsTo investigate whether noninvasive vagal nerve stimulation (NVNS) could inhibit sympathetically induced sinus node acceleration by reducing right stellate ganglion (RSG) neural activity.MethodsSixteen anesthetized dogs were randomly divided into NVNS group (with NVNS, n = 8) and control group (with sham NVNS, n = 8). NVNS was delivered to the vagus nerve innervating at the right tragus with a voltage of 80% below the threshold, the minimal voltage to slow the sinus rate or atrioventricular conduction. The maximal sinus rate accelerations induced by high‐frequency stimulation (HFS) of RSG and RSG neural activity were measured at baseline and 3 hours after NVNS. At the end, SK2, c‐fos, and NGF protein expression in RSG were examined in both groups.ResultsCompared to baseline, the maximal sinus node acceleration induced by RSG stimulation and the RSG neural activity were both significantly attenuated after 3 hours of NVNS (P < 0.05 for both). However, these indices did not change significantly in the control group (P > 0.05). SK2 expression in RSG was significantly higher and c‐fos and NGF expressions were significantly lower in the NVNS group than those in the control group (P < 0.05).ConclusionNoninvasive vagal nerve stimulation may suppress RSG activity possibly by modulating SK2, c‐fos, and NGF expressions in RSG, thus inhibiting sympathetically induced sinus node acceleration.
The combined effects of pre‐ and post‐copulatory processes are masking sexual conflict over mating rate in Gerris buenoi
Authors: Devost E. , Turgeon J. 
Published: October 2015

AbstractIn polygynandrous animals, post‐copulatory processes likely interfere with precopulatory sexual selection. In water striders, sexual conflict over mating rate and post‐copulatory processes are well documented, but their combined effect on reproductive success has seldom been investigated. We combine genetic parentage analyses and behavioural observations conducted in a competitive reproductive environment to investigate how pre‐ and post‐copulatory processes influence reproductive success in Gerris buenoi Kirkaldy. Precopulatory struggles had antagonistic effects on male and female reproductive success: efficiently gaining copulations was beneficial for males, whereas efficiently avoiding copulations was profitable for females. Also, high mating rates and an intermediate optimal resistance level of females supported the hypothesis of convenience polyandry. Contrary to formal predictions, high mating rates (i.e. the number of copulations) did not increase reproductive success in males or decrease reproductive success in females. Instead, the reproductive success of both sexes was higher when offspring were produced with several partners and when there were few unnecessary matings. Thus, male and female G. buenoi displayed different interests in reproduction, but post‐copulatory processes were masking the effects of copulatory mating success on reproductive success. Given the high mating rates observed, sperm competition could easily counter the effect of mating rates, perhaps in interaction with cryptic female choice and/or fecundity selection. Our study presents a complex but realistic overview of sexual selection forces at work in a model organism for the study of sexual conflict, confirming that insights are gained from investigating all episodes in the reproduction cycle of polygynandrous animals.
Huanglongbing: An overview of a complex pathosystem ravaging the world's citrus
Authors: da Graça John V. , Douhan Greg W. , Halbert Susan E. , Keremane Manjunath L. , Lee Richard F. , Vidalakis Georgios , Zhao Hongwei 
Published: October 2015

AbstractCitrus huanglongbing (HLB) has become a major disease and limiting factor of production in citrus areas that have become infected. The destruction to the affected citrus industries has resulted in a tremendous increase to support research that in return has resulted in significant information on both applied and basic knowledge concerning this important disease to the global citrus industry. Recent research indicates the relationship between citrus and the causal agent of HLB is shaped by multiple elements, in which host defense responses may also play an important role. This review is intended to provide an overview of the importance of HLB to a wider audience of plant biologists. Recent advances on host‐pathogen interactions, population genetics and vectoring of the causal agent are discussed.
Visualization of water drying in porous materials by X‐ray phase contrast imaging
Authors: YANG F. , GRIFFA M. , BONNIN A. , MOKSO R. , DI BELLA C. , MÜNCH B. , KAUFMANN R. , LURA P. 
Published: October 2015

SummaryWe present in this study results from X‐ray tomographic microscopy with synchrotron radiation performed both in attenuation and phase contrast modes on a limestone sample during two stages of water drying. No contrast agent was used in order to increase the X‐ray attenuation by water. We show that only by using the phase contrast mode it is possible to achieve enough water content change resolution to investigate the drying process at the pore‐scale. We performed 3D image analysis of the time‐differential phase contrast tomogram. We show by the results of such analysis that it is possible to obtain a reliable characterization of the spatial redistribution of water in the resolved pore system in agreement with what expected from the theory of drying in porous media and from measurements performed with other approaches. We thus show the potential of X‐ray phase contrast imaging for pore‐scale investigations of reactive water transport processes which cannot be imaged by adding a contrast agent for exploiting the standard attenuation contrast imaging mode.
Relieved or disappointed – experiences of accepted and rejected living kidney donors: a prospective qualitative study
Authors: Agerskov Hanne , Ludvigsen Mette Spliid , Bistrup Claus , Pedersen Birthe D 
Published: October 2015

Aim and objectivesTo investigate the perceived experiences and considerations among potential kidney transplantation donors in relation to acceptance or rejection as donors.BackgroundKidney transplantations are successfully performed in all Western countries, but the prevalence of patients waiting for organs from deceased donors far exceeds the number of organs available. This shortfall has promoted donation by living donors, who enter the donation process with feelings of hope, concern and patience to be accepted or rejected for donation.DesignA phenomenological‐hermeneutic approach was applied in the study.MethodsSemi‐structured interviews were conducted with 16 participants. Data were interpreted and discussed in accordance with Ricoeur's theory of interpretation involving: naïve reading, structural analysis, critical interpretation and discussion.ResultsAccepted donors experienced relief and delight. Reflections were made on being prepared for donation and on the risks involved. Relationships between donors and recipients became closer. Rejected donors experienced frustration and disappointment, including anxiety about the recipient's prospects. Rejected donors reflected on the reason for rejection, and this could include considerations about changes to their own lifestyle. Reactions from relatives had an impact on donors.ConclusionsThe study concluded that both the accepted and rejected donors were vulnerable and in need of attention, engagement, support and care. The study draws attention to the need for healthcare professionals to be open and sensitive to the donors′ descriptions of their unique experiences of being accepted or rejected for kidney donation.Relevance to clinical practiceNurses should be aware that dialogue with donors, including reflections on experiences, is important to reduce and alleviate vulnerability and to give the best possible support and attention, including the opportunity to promote optimal postdonation outcomes.
Decreased levels of stem cell factor in subjects with incident coronary events
Authors: Wigren M. , Rattik S. , Hultman K. , Björkbacka H. , Nordin‐Fredrikson G. , Bengtsson E. , Hedblad B. , Siegbahn A. , Gonçalves I. , Nilsson J. 
Published: October 2015

AbstractBackgroundIt has been proposed that vascular progenitor cells play an important role in vascular repair, but their possible clinical importance in cardiovascular disease has not been fully characterized. Vascular endothelial growth factor A, placental growth factor and stem cell factor (SCF) are three growth factors that are important in recruiting vascular progenitor cells. In this study, we investigated the association between the plasma levels of these growth factors and incident coronary events (CEs).MethodsLevels of the three growth factors were measured using the proximity extension assay technique in baseline plasma samples from 384 subjects with a first CE (mean follow‐up 14.0 ± 4.3 years) and 409 event‐free control subjects matched by sex and age, as well as in homogenates from 201 endarterectomy specimens.ResultsAfter controlling for known cardiovascular disease risk factors in a Cox regression model, subjects in the lowest SCF tertile had a hazard ratio of 1.70 (95% confidence interval 1.14–2.54) compared with subjects in the highest SCF tertile. Lower SCF levels were also associated with more severe carotid disease, less fibrous atherosclerotic plaques and an increased incidence of heart failure. Expression of the SCF receptor c‐kit was demonstrated in the subendothelial layer and fibrous cap of human atherosclerotic plaques. Smokers and subjects with diabetes had decreased levels of SCF compared with control subjects.ConclusionTo our knowledge, this is the first clinical study to provide evidence to support a key role for SCF and progenitor cells in vascular repair. We suggest that the SCF–c‐kit pathway may be a promising biomarker and therapeutic target in cardiovascular disease.
Immunohistochemical expression of alpha‐smooth muscle actin and glucocorticoid and calcitonin receptors in central giant‐cell lesions
Authors: Noya Maiz Nancy , de la Rosa‐García Estela , Irigoyen Camacho María Esther 
Published: October 2015

BackgroundCentral giant‐cell lesions (CGCLs) are reactive lesions that consist histologically of spindle‐shaped stromal cells, (fibroblasts and myofibroblasts) loosely arranged in a fibrous stroma, multinucleated giant cells and mononuclear cells with haemorrhagic areas. This study identified the immunoexpression of alpha‐smooth muscle actin in spindle‐shaped stromal cells, and glucocorticoid and calcitonin receptors in multinucleated giant cells and mononuclear cells. Their association with the clinical and radiographic characteristics of these lesions was identified.MethodsThirty‐five cases of CGCLs were studied. Expression of alpha‐smooth muscle actin, glucocorticoid and calcitonin was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. The labelling index was 100 times the quotient of the number of positive cells divided by the total number of cells of each type. Logistic regression analysis was applied.ResultsAlpha‐smooth muscle actin was positive (54%) for spindle stromal cells (myofibroblasts). A significant association was observed with root resorption (P = 0.004) and cortical bone destruction (P = 0.024). Glucocorticoid immunoexpression was positive for 99% of the giant cells and 86.7% of the mononuclear cells. Glucocorticoid immunoexpression in the mononuclear cells was associated with root resorption (P = 0.031). A longer evolution time was associated with lower immunoexpression of glucocorticoid (OR 12.4: P = 0.047). Calcitonin immunoexpression was positive in 86% of the giant cells. Immunoexpression of calcitonin was associated with age (P = 0.040).ConclusionsMyofibroblasts are important components of CGCLs, stromal cells and alpha‐smooth muscle. Actin immunoexpression was associated with root and cortical bone resorption.
Serum‐derived hepatitis C virus 1a infection of human astrocyte cell line SVG
Authors: Rajalakshmy A. R. , Malathi J. , Madhavan H. N. 
Published: October 2015

SummaryNeuroinvasion of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is evidenced by recent clinical studies. In this study, serum‐derived HCV infection of astrocytes was analysed. Astrocytes were infected with HCV‐positive serum, and viral replication was assessed on different days postinfection. RT‐PCR was positive for HCV‐negative strand on 5th and 7th day postinfection in the HCV‐positive serum‐infected astrocytes. Real‐time RNA count in the cell culture supernatant was steadily increasing from day 3 to day 7. To reconfirm the viral replication, astrocytes were treated with an antiviral before the serum infection, and the antiviral treatment significantly reduced the viral RNA count. Further, the virus‐infected cells stained positive for the presence of viral core protein. Electron microscopy revealed the presence of HCV‐like particles in the astrocyte cell culture supernatant. In conclusion, serum‐derived HCV replicates in human astrocyte cell line SVG.
High‐Frequency Continuous Pulsed Magnetic Stimulation Does Not Adversely Affect Development on Whole Body Organs in Female Sprague–Dawley Rats
Authors: SATO Eiichi , YAMANISHI Tomonori , IMAI Yasuo , KOBAYASHI Masashi , SAKAMOTO Taku , ONO Yuko , FUJII Akiko , YAMAGUCHI Takehiko , NAKAMURA Tsukasa , UEDA Yoshihiko 
Published: October 2015

ObjectivesTo conduct histopathological studies on various organs in three different groups of female rats for adverse effects of pulsed magnetic stimulation (MS). Blood tests and body and organ weights were also studied.MethodsA high‐frequency continuous magnetic stimulator was used (SMN‐X, Nihon Kohden, Tokyo). Thirty‐four female Sprague–Dawley rats (SPF) were randomly divided into three groups: treatment (MS) groups with 12 and 36 stimulations (seven rats in each); sham groups exposed only to sounds of stimulation for 12 and 36 times; (seven rats in each); and control groups with no stimulation or sound during the same periods of 12 and 36 stimulations (five rats in each). The MS group received magnetic stimulation at the maximum output level (560 mT peak) at 10 Hz for 25 min once daily for 5 days a week. After treatment various organs including genital organs were removed for histological and endocrinological examinations.ResultsNo changes were seen in body and organ weights and daily behaviors among the three groups. No adverse influence of magnetic stimulation was noted on histopathological examinations of liver, spleen, kidney, lung, heart, thymus, urinary bladder, skeletal muscle and bone marrow. No intragroup changes were seen among the three groups with regard to endocrinological findings including blood cell counts, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), estrogen and progesterone levels.ConclusionsPulsed magnetic stimulation exerted no apparent adverse effect on the various organs, hormone levels, body weight, and daily behaviors in female rats.
Biases, gaps, and opportunities in mammalian extinction risk research
Authors: Verde Arregoitia Luis D. 
Published: October 2015

Abstract
A subdiscipline of conservation science involves the study of differences between threatened and non‐threatened species. The relevance of multispecies analyses of extinction risk to conservation practice has been questioned, but there has been no synthesis of the allocation of research effort to different regions and groups of mammals to assess whether or not sufficient knowledge is available to support conservation science where it is most needed.
I reviewed 68 comparative studies of mammalian extinction risk to test whether existing research reflects our concern for threatened species. Additionally, I examined the variables used and various methodological issues that can lead to uninformative results.
Known spatial and taxonomic biases in conservation science persisted in extinction risk research, leaving large proportions of globally threatened taxa unstudied. Primates and carnivores had more dedicated studies, whereas small mammals such as rodents and the Eulipotyphla (true shrews, talpids, solenodons, gymnures, and hedgehogs) lack research effort despite their high diversity, threat, and extinction record. Except for the Australian mammal fauna (a clear priority given the number of threatened, extinct, and endemic taxa), most areas of conservation importance remain underrepresented in these types of studies.
Detailed country‐level analyses can provide applicable results for understudied regions. I propose Southeast Asia and the Caribbean for further research, given their high levels of extinction, threat and endemism, and their unique biogeographic histories. Finally, I offer suggestions for general methodological improvements to avoid problems with missing data and statistical circularity in order to maximise conservation relevance.