bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Vection in virtual reality modulates vestibular‐evoked myogenic potentials
Authors: Gallagher Maria , Dowsett Ross , Ferrè Elisa Raffaella 
Published: June 2019

AbstractThe popularity of virtual reality (VR) has increased rapidly in recent years. While significant technological advancements are apparent, a troublesome problem with VR is that between 20% and 80% of users will experience unpleasant side effects such as nausea, disorientation, blurred vision and headaches—a malady known as Cybersickness. Cybersickness may be caused by a conflict between sensory signals for self‐motion: while vision signals that the user is moving in a certain direction with certain acceleration, the vestibular organs provide no corroborating information. To resolve the sensory conflict, vestibular cues may be down‐weighted leading to an alteration of how the brain interprets actual vestibular information. This may account for the frequently reported after‐effects of VR exposure. Here, we investigated whether exposure to vection in VR modulates vestibular processing. We measured vestibular‐evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs) during brief immersion in a vection‐inducing VR environment presented via head‐mounted display. We found changes in VEMP asymmetry ratio, with a substantial increase in VEMP amplitude recorded on the left sternocleidomastoid muscle following just one minute of exposure to vection in VR. Our results suggest that exposure to vection in VR modulates vestibular processing, which may explain common after‐effects of VR.
The impact of the mandatory rest period in Fédération Equestre Internationale endurance events
Authors: Bennet E. D. , Parkin T. D. H. 
Published: June 2019

SummaryBackgroundEndurance riding competitions are increasingly popular, with a corresponding awareness of the frequency of Failure to Qualify (FTQ) due to lameness or metabolic problems. Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) rules require a minimum number of days between competitions, known as a mandatory rest period (MRP).ObjectivesTo analyse the impact on FTQ outcomes of MRPs which applied between January 2014 and December 2016, and model potential changes to MRPs to establish which rule change could lead to the largest further reduction in the number of FTQ outcomes.Study designRetrospective cohort study and predictive model using a subset of data collected by the FEI of every horse start worldwide in Concours de Raid d’Endurance Internationale (CEI) competitions between 2010 and 2017.MethodsDescriptive statistics followed by predictive/retrospective modelling of potential scenarios. Scenarios involved extended MRP for all horses and/or for only the fastest ridden horses.ResultsThere were clear direct benefits demonstrated from the introduction of MRPs. Among directly affected horses, current MRPs could have prevented 2.3% of FTQ outcomes. Further benefits could be gained by extending MRPs. The ‘best‐value’ impact could be found in a 1‐week extension for all horses plus a 1‐week extension for the fastest ridden horses – which could result in a reduction of up to 11.5% of FTQ outcomes among directly affected horses.Main limitationsThe data set covers all FEI competitions but no National Federation events. The data set is geographically comprehensive but it does not include every competition started by every individual horse. Training data for each horse were not available.ConclusionsMandatory rest periods for horses between endurance competitions have had the intended impact of reducing numbers of FTQ outcomes in CEI events. Further benefits could be gained by extending rest periods for all horses and/or for horses ridden at the highest average speeds.
Diagnosis of postoperative delirium in older adults using the Confusion Assessment Method for the intensive care unit in non‐intensive care unit settings: A test modification might improve its diagnostic performance
Authors: Wongviriyawong Titima , Sura‐arunsumrit Patumporn , Chaiwat Onuma , To‐Adithep Puriwat , Ramlee Rachaneekorn , Srinonprasert Varalak 
Published: June 2019

AimTo evaluate the diagnostic performance of the Confusion Assessment Method for the intensive care unit (CAM‐ICU) among postoperative older patients in non‐ICU settings.MethodsThe CAM‐ICU was used by trained staff to prospectively evaluate postoperative patients for delirium. The patients were aged ≥60 years, were in general wards and had no critical illnesses. The assessments occurred for 7 consecutive days after surgery. The results were compared with delirium diagnoses obtained by geriatricians using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th edition criteria as the reference standard.ResultsThe sensitivity of delirium detection for the CAM‐ICU was 31.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 12.6–56.6), while the specificity was 97.6% (95% CI 94.9–99.1), positive predictive value was 50.0% (95% CI 26.3–73.7) and negative predictive value was 95.0% (95% CI 93.3–96.3). Feature 4 (disorganized thinking) yielded the highest sensitivity (60%; 95% CI 14.7–94.7), whereas feature 2 (inattention) had low sensitivity (36.8%; 95% CI 16.3–61.6). Further analyses to explore the highest sensitive criteria showed that if CAM‐ICU diagnoses were made by the presence of any two out of feature 1 (acute change or fluctuation of cognition), feature 3 (altered level of consciousness) or feature 4, the sensitivity increased substantially to 80.0% (95% CI 28.4–99.5), with a reasonably high specificity of 81.8% (95% CI 48.2–97.7).ConclusionsModification of the flow of delirium diagnosis using the CAM‐ICU appears to offer a better sensitivity for detecting delirium in non‐ICU settings. Furthermore, changing feature 2 to evaluate patients’ attention levels over a longer period of time might yield a better diagnostic performance. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 762–767.
Revisiting income convergence in Turkey: Are there convergence clubs?
Authors: Aksoy Tolga , Taştan Hüseyin , Kama Özge 
Published: June 2019

AbstractThis paper investigates club convergence in per capita income across 81 NUTS‐III regions in Turkey over the 1987–2017 period using the procedure suggested by Phillips and Sul. Based on a nonlinear factor model that allows for transitional heterogeneity, our econometric approach enables us to test the presence of convergence clusters and to examine their transitional behavior. We obtain strong evidence that there is no absolute or conditional convergence but convergence clubs across Turkish regions: five clubs in the first period covering 1987–2001 and six clubs in the second period covering 2004–2017. The geographical distribution of clubs suggests a clear separation between the eastern and the western regions of Turkey for both periods. While geography may be destiny, results from an ordered logit model reveal that initial income per capita, human capital, and total credits are the most important determinants of convergence clubs in Turkey.
Loss of C/EBPδ enhances apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells and exacerbates experimental colitis in mice
Authors: Jozawa Hiroki , Inoue‐Yamauchi Akane , Arimura Sumimasa , Yamanashi Yuji 
Published: June 2019

AbstractInflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are characterized by chronic inflammation involving intestinal tissue damage, which include ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease as major entities. Accumulating evidence suggests that excessive apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) contributes to the development of IBD. It was recently reported that the transcription factor CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein delta (C/EBPδ) is involved in inflammation; however, its role in colitis remains unclear. Here, we found that C/EBPδ knockout mice showed enhanced susceptibility to dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)‐induced colitis, a mouse model of IBD, which was associated with severe colonic inflammation and mucosal damage with increased IEC apoptosis. Additionally, DSS stimulation induced increased expression of pro‐apoptotic BH3‐only protein Bim in the colon of C/EBPδ knockout mice. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that C/EBPδ plays an essential role in suppressing DSS‐induced colitis, likely by attenuating IEC apoptosis.
Impact of lunar phase on outcomes following ST‐elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Segan Louise , Brennan Angela , Reid Christopher M. , Hiew Chin , Oqueli Ernesto , Ajani Andrew , Clark David , Duffy Stephen J. , Yip Thomas ,   Melbourne Interventional Group Investigators
Published: June 2019

AbstractBackgroundThere is a long‐held belief in the association between the full moon and extremes of human behaviour and adverse health consequences. Small‐scale studies are conflicting; however, most suggest no clear association between lunar phase and occurrence of acute coronary syndromes.AimsTo evaluate the impact of the lunar phase, and in particular, the full moon phase, on the incidence and outcomes among ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) cases undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).MethodsWe conducted a multi‐centre retrospective study from the Melbourne Interventional Group registry, including 7570 STEMI cases from six tertiary centres over a 12‐year study period in Victoria, Australia, and performed statistical analysis using Stata software. Primary outcomes studied were the incidence of STEMI, the occurrence of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events and mortality at 1 and 5 years in cases of STEMI undergoing primary or rescue percutaneous coronary intervention during the full moon between 2005 and 2017 in Victoria, Australia.ResultsThis study demonstrated neither significant difference in STEMI incidence (P = 0.61) nor of major adverse cardiovascular events across all lunar phases. Subgroup analysis confirmed no difference in outcomes during the full moon compared to a composite of other lunar phases.Kaplan–Meier survival estimates showed similar 30‐day outcomes across lunar phases (P = 0.35) and when comparing full moon to a composite of other lunar phases (P = 0.45). Similarly, there was no significant difference in survival at 1 and 5 years between lunar phases (P = 0.68) or compared to the full moon phase (P = 0.51).ConclusionsThis study showed no significant difference in the incidence or cardiovascular outcomes and survival in patients with STEMI undergoing primary or rescue percutaneous coronary intervention during the lunar phases.
Danqi soft capsule prevents infarct border zone remodelling and reduces susceptibility to ventricular arrhythmias in post‐myocardial infarction rats
Authors: Ma Shiyu , Ma Jin , Mai Xiaoyi , Zhao Xujie , Guo Liheng , Zhang Minzhou 
Published: June 2019

AbstractDanqi soft capsule (DQ) is a traditional Chinese medicine containing Salvia miltiorrhiza and Panax notoginseng; it is safe and efficient in treating ischaemic heart diseases. The purpose of the present study was to assess whether DQ could prevent infarct border zone (IBZ) remodelling and decrease ventricular arrhythmias occurrence in post‐myocardial infarction (MI) stage. MI was induced by a ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. DQ was administered to the post‐MI rats started from 1 week after MI surgery for 4 weeks. The results showed that DQ treatment significantly attenuated tachyarrhythmia induction rates and arrhythmia score in post‐MI rats. In echocardiography, DQ improved left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic function. Histological assessment revealed that DQ significantly reduced fibrotic areas and myocyte areas, and increased connexin (Cx) 43 positive areas in IBZ. Western blot revealed that DQ treatment significantly reduced the protein expression levels of type I and III collagens, α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) and Smad3 phosphorylation, while increasing Cx43 amounts. Overall, these findings mainly indicated that DQ intervention regulates interstitial fibrosis, Cx43 expression and myocyte hypertrophy by TGF‐β1/Smad3 pathway in IBZ, inhibits LV remodelling and reduces vulnerability to tachyarrhythmias after MI. This study presents a proof of concept for novel antiarrhythmic strategies in preventing IBZ remodelling, modifying the healed arrhythmogenic substrate and thus reducing susceptibility to ventricular arrhythmias in the late post‐MI period.
Mechanical stress alters protein O‐GlcNAc in human periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Frank Dorottya , Cser Annamária , Kolarovszki Béla , Farkas Nelli , Miseta Attila , Nagy Tamás 
Published: June 2019

AbstractProtein O‐linked N‐acetylglucosamine (O‐GlcNAc) is a post‐translational modification of intracellular proteins that regulates several physiological and pathophysiological process, including response to various stressors. However, O‐GlcNAc's response to mechanical stress has not been investigated yet. As human periodontal ligament (PDL) cells are stimulated by compression force during orthodontic tooth movement that results in structural remodelling, in this study we investigated whether mechanical stress induces any alteration in protein O‐GlcNAc in PDL cells. In this study, PDL cells isolated from premolars extracted for orthodontic indications were exposed to 0, 1.5, 3, 7 and 14 g/cm2 compression forces for 12 hours. Cell viability was measured by flow cytometry, and protein O‐GlcNAc was analysed by Western blot. Cellular structure and intracellular distribution of O‐GlcNAc was studied by immunofluorescence microscopy. We found that between 1.5 and 3 g/cm2 mechanical compression, O‐GlcNAc significantly elevated; however, at higher forces O‐GlcNAc level was not increased. We also found that intracellular localization of O‐GlcNAc proteins became more centralized under 2 g/cm2 compression force. Our results suggest that structural changes stimulated by compression forces have a significant effect on the regulation of O‐GlcNAc; thus, it might play a role in the mechanical stress adaptation of PDL cells.
Multiplex polymerase chain reaction to detect Salmonella serovars Indiana, Enteritidis, and Typhimurium in raw meat
Authors: Xu Jingxiao , Zhang Ping , Zhuang Linlin , Zhang Di , Qi Kezong , Dou Xinhong , Wang Chengming , Gong Jiansen 
Published: June 2019

AbstractSalmonella‐contaminated raw food is an important source of human food poisoning. Traditional methods for detecting Salmonella in meat involve many time‐consuming and laborious steps, preventing timely and effective control of the pathogen. In this study, a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay that targets serovar‐specific genes such as A7P63_0910 (Salmonella Indiana), sdfI (Salmonella Enteritidis), and STM4497 (Salmonella Typhimurium) for three meat‐associated Salmonella serovars was established. This multiplex PCR has been validated by extensive testing on reference strains and clinical isolates belonging to different Salmonella serovars (n = 348) and non‐Salmonella bacteria (n = 12). The detection limit is 100 CFU per reaction for bacterial culture, being equivalent to 10 pg per reaction for bacterial genomic DNA. Detection of Salmonella in raw meat samples by this multiplex PCR revealed that the prevalence of S. Indiana, S. Enteritidis, and S. Typhimurium is 7.7%, 5.7%, and 2.0%, respectively. The multiplex PCR established in this study can be used as a novel and convenient tool for simultaneous detection of three major meat‐associated Salmonella serovars, including the newly emerging and highly drug‐resistant S. Indiana.Practical applicationsIn this study, a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay that targets serovar‐specific genes such as A7P63_0910 (Salmonella Indiana), sdfI (Salmonella Enteritidis), and STM4497 (Salmonella Typhimurium) for three meat‐associated Salmonella serovars was established. This multiplex PCR is suitable for the simultaneous detection and differentiation of three major meat‐associated Salmonella serovars, and has been validated by extensive testing of reference strains and clinical isolates. The multiplex PCR assay can provide rapid and specific screening for top three Salmonella serovars in meat samples.
Determination of decomposition in Salmon products by mass spectrometry with sensory‐driven multivariate analysis
Authors: Self Randy L. , McLendon Michael G. , Lock Christopher M. 
Published: June 2019

AbstractSensory analysis is performed in USFDA testing laboratories to determine the decomposition status of seafood samples. Current alternatives are not always directly comparable to sensory testing. In this study, a novel method was explored using LC‐HRMS with untargeted analysis and a statistical model driven by sensory results via a script written in the R programming language. This allows generation of data, which are directly comparable to commonly used sensory scoring techniques. The method was applied to six species of salmon, across a wide range of decomposition conditions. Accuracy and reproducibility of the method in comparison with sensory results were demonstrated and show promising results. Correlation values between calculated and sensory values for each species ranged from 0.912 to 0.973, and the correct status was determined for 96% of samples (n = 92). Since it generates data which are comparable to sensory analysis, it provides a potentially useful companion to that work.Practical ApplicationSpoilage of seafood samples is currently tested in USFDA laboratories by sensory analysis to help protect consumer safety. This study aims to identify a chemistry‐based analytical complementary method to that work for use in the regulatory environment.
Transient elastography predicts survival after radiofrequency ablation of hepatocellular carcinoma developing on cirrhosis
Authors: Rekik Samia , Allaire Manon , Mumana Annie , Guyot Erwan , Nkontchou Gisèle , Grando Véronique , Blaise Lorraine , Ziol Marianne , Nahon Pierre , Ganne‐Carrié Nathalie , Sutter Olivier , Seror Olivier , Nault Jean‐Charles 
Published: June 2019

AbstractBackground and aimThe prognostic value of transient elastography (TE) in cirrhotic patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treated by percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is currently unknown.Method(s)We included patients with histologically proven cirrhosis and with a first diagnosis of HCC inside Milan criteria treated by percutaneous RFA, and with TE available the year before treatment with 10 shots and interquartile range/median < 30%. Association between variables and clinical events was assessed by the Kaplan–Meier method with the log–rank test and using Cox univariate and multivariate analyses.ResultsOne hundred fifty‐nine patients were included, with a median age of 65 years; 77.4% were men. Causes of cirrhosis were alcohol consumption (48.1%), hepatitis C (43.7%), hepatitis B (12.7%), and non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (32.3%). Median value of TE was 26 kPa (4–75 kPa). Overall survival at 1, 2, and 5 years was, respectively, 93%, 81%, and 44%; overall recurrence was 28%, 49%, and 80%. The TE value was not associated with tumor recurrence (0.13). In contrast, in univariate analysis, TE value, age, Child–Pugh B, and alkaline phosphatase were predictive factors in overall survival. In multivariate analysis, TE value (hazards ratio [HR] = 1.02, 95% confidence interval (IC): 1.01–1.04, 0.001), age (HR = 1.05, 95% IC: 1.03–1.08, P = 0.00006), and Child–Pugh B score (HR = 2.78, 95% IC: 1.27–6.08, P = 0.01) were independently associated with higher risk of death. A TE value ≥ 40 kPa was associated with shorter median overall survival (34 months) compared to a TE value < 40 kPa (59 months, P = 0.0008).Conclusion(s)Transient elastography (TE) predicts overall survival but not tumor recurrence in cirrhotic patients with HCC treated by RFA.
RhoA in tyrosine hydroxylase neurones regulates food intake and body weight via altered sensitivity to peripheral hormones
Authors: Skov Louise J. , Ratner Cecilia , Hansen Nikolaj W. , Thompson Jonathan J. , Egerod Kristoffer L. , Burm Hayley , Dalbøge Louise S. , Hedegaard Morten A. , Brakebusch Cord , Pers Tune H. , Perrier Jean‐François , Holst Birgitte 
Published: June 2019

AbstractDopamine‐producing tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) neurones in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARC) have recently been shown to be involved in ghrelin signalling and body weight homeostasis. In the present study, we investigate the role of the intracellular regulator RhoA in hypothalamic TH neurones in response to peripheral hormones. Diet‐induced obesity was found to be associated with increased phosphorylation of TH in ARC, indicating obesity‐associated increased activity of ARC TH neurones. Mice in which RhoA was specifically knocked out in TH neurones (TH‐RhoA−/− mice) were more sensitive to the orexigenic effect of peripherally administered ghrelin and displayed an abolished response to the anorexigenic hormone leptin. When TH‐RhoA−/− mice were challenged with a high‐fat high‐sucrose (HFHS) diet, they became hyperphagic and gained more body weight and fat mass compared to wild‐type control mice. Importantly, lack of RhoA prevented development of ghrelin resistance, which is normally observed in wild‐type mice after long‐term HFHS diet feeding. Patch‐clamp electrophysiological analysis demonstrated increased ghrelin‐induced excitability of TH neurones in lean TH‐RhoA−/− mice compared to lean littermate control animals. Additionally, increased expression of the orexigenic hypothalamic neuropeptides agouti‐related peptide and neuropeptide Y was observed in TH‐RhoA−/− mice. Overall, our data indicate that TH neurones in ARC are important for the regulation of body weight homeostasis and that RhoA is both a central effector in these neurones and important for the development of obesity‐induced ghrelin resistance. The obese phenotype of TH‐RhoA−/− mice may be a result of increased sensitivity to ghrelin and decreased sensitivity to leptin, resulting in increased food intake.
Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. (Lamiaceae): a review of its traditional uses, botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology
Authors: Zhao Tiantian , Tang Hailong , Xie Long , Zheng Yu , Ma Zubing , Sun Qiang , Li Xiaofang 
Published: June 2019

Abstract

Objectives
Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. (Lamiaceae) is a plant of the genus Lamiaceae, and its root is the main part used as a medicine. In China, Scutellaria baicalensis is still an important traditional Chinese medicine with the functions of clearing away heat and dampness, purging fire and detoxification. This medicinal plant is widely distributed in China, Russia, Mongolia, North Korea and Japan. The purpose of this paper was to provide a systematic and comprehensive overview on the traditional usages, botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and toxicology of this plant. Furthermore, the possible development trends and perspectives for future research on this medicinal plant are also discussed.

Key findings
So far, over 40 compounds have been isolated and identified from Scutellaria baicalensis, including flavonoids, terpenoids, volatile oils and polysaccharides. The compounds and extracts isolated from Scutellaria baicalensis exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities, including the effects on the nervous system, effects on the immune system, liver protection, antitumour effects, antibacterial and antiviral effects, antioxidant effects and other pharmacological effects.

Summary
As a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, Scutellaria baicalensis has shown significant effects on the treatment of various diseases, especially hepatitis, diarrhoea, vomiting and high blood pressure. Numerous traditional uses of Scutellaria baicalensis have been confirmed by current investigations. However, it is also necessary to further study the drug-forming properties and pharmacokinetics of the active constituents of Scutellaria baicalensis, as well as to establish quality control standards for different areas of Scutellaria baicalensis, and to carry out the research at the cellular and molecular levels.