bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cerebrospinal fluid p-tau231 as an early indicator of emerging pathology in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Ashton Nicholas J. , Benedet Andrea L. , Pascoal Tharick A. , Karikari Thomas K. , Lantero-Rodriguez Juan , Mathotaarachchi Sulantha , Therriault Joseph , Savard Melissa , Chamoun Mira , Stoops Erik , Francois Cindy , Vanmechelen Eugeen , Gauthier Serge , Zimmer Eduardo R. , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Rosa-Neto Pedro 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Biomarkers for early phosphorylation of tau constitute an unmet need for disease modifying intervention in early stages of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Recent advances in targeted mass spectrometry and immunoassays have revealed phosphorylation sites, in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), with potentially greater utility as preclinical and diagnostic biomarkers as compared to the well validated biomarker – phosphorylated tau at threonine 181 (p-tau181). Phosphorylated tau (p-tau) epitopes in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are highly accurate biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) neuropathology and are already increased before cognitive symptoms have manifested. However, it is unknown if these preclinical increases transpire earlier, prior to amyloid-beta (Aβ) positivity threshold, and if an ordinal sequence of p-tau epitopes occurs at this incipient phase. In this study, we measured cerebrospinal (CSF) p-tau181, p-tau217 and p-tau231 in 171 participants across the AD continuum compared to AD neuropathology as indexed by Ab ([18F]AZD4694) and tau ([18F]MK6240) position emission tomography. CSF P-tau217 and p-tau231 predicted Aβ and tau at the preclinical and dementia stages to a similar degree but p-tau231 attained abnormal levels first. P-tau231 was more sensitive to the earliest changes in Aβ in the medial orbitofrontal, precuneus and posterior cingulate cortices before global Aβ PET positivity had been achieved. Our findings demonstrate that CSF p-tau231 increases early in development of AD pathology and is a principal candidate for detecting incipient Aβ pathology for therapeutic trial application.
Contributing Roles of Depression, Anxiety, and Impulsivity Dimensions in Eating Behaviors Styles in Obese Individuals Seeking Bariatric Surgery
Authors: BENZEROUK FARID , Guénin Monique , Gierski Fabien , Raucher-Chéné Delphine , Barrière Sarah , Bertin Eric , Kaladjian Arthur 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BackgroundEven if bariatric surgery appears as the most effective therapeutic approach, it is not equally successful across individuals suffering from obesity. Among the factors that influence postsurgical outcomes, eating behaviors are known to play a key role in relapses. The aim of our study was to assess eating behaviors styles and several modulating psychopathological factors in patients suffering from obesity.MethodsPatients seeking bariatric surgery (N = 127) completed a set of standardized tools assessing eating behaviors (DEBQ), psychiatric comorbid conditions (MINI), mood (BDI-13, STAI), and impulsivity (UPPS-P).ResultsWe found significant correlations between DEBQ Emotional Eating (EmoE) and depression, state and trait anxiety and all dimensions of impulsivity. Significant correlations also occurred between DEBQ External Eating (ExtE) and depression, state and trait anxiety and UPPS-P positive urgency, lack of perseverance and sensation seeking. Regression analyses showed female gender, trait anxiety, and lack of perseverance as explanatory factors in EmoE, and depression severity score and positive urgency in ExtE.ConclusionsEmoE might be a means of dealing with negative emotions and/or intrusive thoughts, while ExtE may result from a mechanism associated with depression. These results may help to improve patients’ outcome by defining specific therapeutic targets in psychological interventions.
Conservation Facing the Uses Knowledge of Phacochoerus Africanus (Gmelin 1788), Common Warthog And Potamochoerus Porcus (Linnaeus 1758), Red River Hog In South Of Benin
Authors: Codjia Florian Gbodja , Lougbegnon Toussaint Olou , Lopes Sérgio de Faria , Mensah Guy Apollinaire 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BackgroundDespite the number of wild animals that are useful to the local population and have served as a basis for ethnozoological research in Benin, others such as Phacochoerus africanus and Potamochoerus porcus remain poorly documented according to their uses. They are already facing threats to their proper conservation in ecosystems where they are found in metapopulations as a result of the fragmentation effects. In this study, the ethnozoological knowledge of these suids in southern Benin was inventoried. MethodsTo achieve this objective, structured interviews were conducted with 138 people randomly selected in nine districts. The use values of these suids parts and the fidelity level were assessed through global ethnozoological value. Non-parametric tests were carried out to analyse the uses differences according to gender, age and ethnic group. Two Correspondence Analyses (PCA) were carried out to describe use categories within districts and ethnic groups. A Generalized Linear Model (GLMs) of binomial families was used to relate the suids practice hunting to districts and distance from the village. ResultsMore than two use categories (food, medicinal and magical) were identified for both species. With regard to the most commonly used parts, we have the mane, teeth, horns for the common warthog and the skull, teeth, nose and testicles for the red river hog. Ten illnesses were cited to be treated by their parts. Significant differences were observed between ethnic groups regarding the suids medicinal uses but not for gender. The ethnozoological use value of suids was almost similar for adults and the elderly. ConclusionStrong pressure continues to be exerted on these two suids and their habitats despite their high zootechnical potential compared to exotic pigs. After the creation of income-generating activities, future research needs to be carried out to evaluate their budgets activities, genetic study and diet through metabarcoding approaches to promote their domestication. This could help to capitalise data that can be used in breeding programmes in order to limit threats on the few species individuals found in the natural environment, as well as to participate in reintroductions if necessary.
Flow Separation Control of Nacelle in Crosswind by Microsecond Pulsed Surface Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma Actuator
Authors: Jia Yuhao , Liang Hua , He Qikun , Su Zhi , Song Guoxing 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Flow separation under crosswind conditions seriously jeopardizes the quality of the nacelle’s flow field. In this paper, microsecond pulsed surface dielectric barrier discharge (µSDBD) is used to suppress the flow separation and reduce the crosswind distortion of the nacelle. The flow structure induced by the µSDBD is first explored by a high-speed schlieren system. The pressure waves composed of a cylindrical wave surrounding the electrodes and a flat wave at the top of the cylindrical one can be perceived, which indicates the fast gas heating produced by the µSDBD. A set of wind tunnel tests are then conducted to verify the ability of µSDBD to suppress the nacelle flow separation and study the influence laws of pulse frequency, coverage area, and the actuator layout on the flow control effects. Results show that plasma actuation can not only improve the total pressure at the exit of the nacelle but also suppress the flow distortion caused by the crosswind. The best flow control effect can be achieved at the pulse frequency of 500Hz, with the value of sectional distortion coefficient reduced by 57.76% compared with the baseline condition. The flow control effect with the plasma actuator covering 120° of the nacelle perimeter is better than that of 60° and 180° coverage, showing the highest flow control efficiency in the 120° condition. The µSDBD can improve mixing between the boundary layer and the main flow, enhancing the ability of the boundary layer to resist the adverse pressure gradient, which is beneficial to flow separation control.
Comparative Study of Clinical Efficacy of Percutaneous Short Segment Pedicle Screw Fixation With or Without Screwing of the Fractured Vertebra With O-arm Navigation
Authors: Shao Xiaofeng , Peng Peng , Yang Peng , Xu Tian , Liu Zixiang , Hua Xi , Zhu Xiaoyu , Qian Zhonglai , Yang Huilin , Mao Haiqing , Kangwu Chen 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Objective: To retrospectively analyze the short-term and long-term efficacy of O-arm-navigated percutaneous short segment pedicle screw fixation with or without screwing of the fractured vertebra.Methods: 42 patients who underwent O-arm-navigated percutaneous short segment pedicle screw fixation for the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures from February 2015 to December 2018 were selected. The patients were divided into two groups according to fixation with or without screwing of the fractured vertebra, 21 cases each. The operation time, length of incision and intraoperative bleeding of the two groups of patients, as well as preoperative, one-week postoperatively and one-year postoperatively Cobb angle, percentage of anterior vertebral height, VAS and ODI data were analyzed to compare the short-term and long-term clinical outcomes of the two groups.Results: All the patients underwent surgery successfully. There were no neurological or other complications after the surgery. All patients were followed up for at least one year. There was no failure of fixation at the one-year follow-up. There was no significant difference in the operation time and intraoperative blood loss between the two groups (P>0.05). The length of incision was statistically significantly different between the two groups (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in Cobb angle and AVH% between the two groups before and one week after the surgery (P>0.05). The Cobb angle and AVH% was statistically significantly different one year after the surgery between the two groups (P<0.05).The Cobb angle and AVH% contrast was statistically significant before surgery, one week and one year after the surgery in the respective group (P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the VAS and ODI preoperatively, one-week and one-year postoperatively between the two groups (P>0.05). There was statistically significant difference in the VAS and ODI throughout the follow-up period in the respective group(P<0.05). Conclusion: The short-term efficacy of the two groups is similar, but the long-term efficacy is better through screwing of the fractured vertebra.
Global review of assisted diagnosis tools using medical database and artificial intelligence methods to improve complex disease diagnosis
Authors: Blériot Anne , Meur Franck Le , Chamisso Guillaume De 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Millions of people worldwide suffer from a rare disease. Many among them without a definitive diagnosis. The object of this study was to identify, evaluate and rate the most appropriate and promising technological tools to help patients effectively navigate their rare disease journey and reduce their exposure to diagnostic wandering.For the analysis of available tools, products were separated into four technology categories: artificial intelligence, assisted anamnesis (symptom checkers), awareness/patient self-screening, direct identification of patients via screening. Tools were then ranked according to two criteria: impact on patients and operability and subsequently narrowed down further for more in-depth analysis. In two separate advisory board meetings, the most promising tools were then evaluated by healthcare professionals and patient representatives, respectively.Across four categories and 107 different tools and means for the purposes of reducing diagnostic wandering in rare disease patients, instruments such as Symptoma, Isabel or FindZebra emerged as the favored solution on both advisory board meeting groups. Symptoma was selected to be further evaluated in a comprehensive pilot study with cardiologists and general practitioners in a real-world setting.
Pulsatility Protects the Endothelial Function during Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zeng Jianfeng , Li Jiani , He Xiaoqian , Li Guanhua 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background

Pulsatile flow has been proved to protect vital organ function and microcirculation during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Studies revealed that pulsatile shear stress plays a vital role in the microcirculatory function and integrity. The objective of this study was to investigate how pulsatility affects wall shear stress and microcirculation during ECMO.
Methods

Using the i-Cor system, we compared the effects of pulstile or non-pulsatile flows in a canine ECMO model, with hemodynamic parameters and peak wall shear stress (PWSS) calculated. Serum concentrations of syndecan-1 and heparan sulfate were measured at different time points during ECMO. Pulstile shear stress experiments were also validated in endothelial cells exposed to different magnitude of pulsatility, with cell viability, the expressions of syndecan-1 and endothelial-to-mesenchymal tranformation (EndMT) markers analyzed.
Results

The pulsatile flow generated more surplus hemodynamic energy and preserved higher PWSS during ECMO. Serum concentrations of syndecan-1 and heparan sulfate were both negatively correlated with PWSS, and significantly lower levels were observed in the pulsatile group. In addition, non-pulsatility triggered EndMT, with EndMT related genes up-regulated, and endothelial cells exposed to low pulsatility had the lowest possibility of EndMT.
Conclusion

The maintenance of the PWSS by pulsatility during ECMO contributes to the beneficial effects on glycocalyx integrity and microcirculatory function. Moreover, pulsatility prevents EndMT in endothelial cells, and low pulsatility exhibits the best protective effects. The augmentation of pulsatility may be a future direction to improve the clinical outcome in ECMO.
Plasmid-Mediated Resistance to Extended-Spectrum Cephalosporins and Resistance to Fluoroquinolones in Escherichia Coli Isolates from Black-headed Gulls (Larus Ridibundus)
Authors: Velhner Maja , Todorović Dalibor , Novović Katarina , Jovčić Branko , Lazić Gospava , Kojić Milan , Kehrenberg Corinna 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Although resistance to fluoroquinolones is common in E. coli isolates from farm and game animals in Serbia, currently no data are accessible on the occurrence of antibacterial resistances in E. coli isolates from gulls. Therefore, 45 cloacal swabs and 50 fecal samples from black-headed gulls were investigated for the presence of Escherichia coli isolates resistant to antibiotics. Multidrug resistance was detected in 22 E. coli isolates. High level resistance to fluoroquinolones was found in ten isolates with MIC values of ciprofloxacin ranging from 4 to 32 mg/L. Genotyping revealed single or double mutations in the quinolone resistance determining region (QRDR) of the gyrA or gyrA, parC and parE genes, respectively. Ten isolates showed resistance to extended-spectrum cephalosporin antibiotics. These ten isolates belonged to phylogenetic group B2 (five isolates), group D (four isolates) and group B1 (one isolate). An extended-spectrum β-lactamase resistance phenotype was detected in one isolate which carried the blaCTX-M-1 gene on a plasmid of the I2/FIB replicon type. Nine isolates carried blaCMY-2 genes, which were detected on conjugative plasmids in seven isolates. One transconjugant also carried hly, iroN, iss, ompT and cvaC virulence genes on the plasmid. Five different sequence types (ST38, ST2307, ST224, ST162 and ST34) were detected in E. coli isolates with ESBL or AmpC phenotype and genotype.
Oseltamivir improved thrombocytopenia during veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults with refractory cardiac failure: A single-center retrospective real-world study
Authors: Li Yuan , Wang Lin , Zhang Jianning , Han Hui , Liu Han , Li Chaoyang , Guo Haipeng , Chen Yuguo , Chen Xiaomei 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background

Severe thrombocytopenia is a common complication of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Oseltamivir can be used to treat infection-associated thrombocytopenia.
Objective

To evaluate the effect of oseltamivir on attenuating severe thrombocytopenia during ECMO.
Methods

This was a single-center real-world study in critically ill patients supported with venous-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO). Patients suspected or confirmed with influenza received oseltamivir according to the Chinese guidelines. Thrombocytopenia and survival were compared between the oseltamivir-treated and -untreated groups. The factors associated with survival were analyzed by multivariable Cox analysis.
Results

A total of 82 patients were included. All patients developed thrombocytopenia after initiating VA-ECMO. Twenty-three patients received oseltamivir (O+ group), and 59 did not (O− group). During the first 8 days of VA-ECMO initiation, the platelet counts in the O+ group were higher than in the O− group (all P < 0.05). The patients in the O+ group had higher median platelet counts at the nadir (77,000/µL, 6,000-169,000/µL), compared with the O− group (49,000/µL, 2,000-168,000/µL; P = 0.04). A platelet count nadir < 50,000/µL was seen in 26% of the patients in the O+ group, compared with 53% in the O− group (P = 0.031). No significant differences in survival to discharge were seen between the O+ and O− groups (48% vs. 56%, P = 0.508). Only the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores at the time of VA-ECMO initiation were independently associated with survival (OR = 1.12, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.02–1.22, P = 0.015).
Conclusions

Oseltamivir could ameliorate VA-ECMO-related thrombocytopenia. These findings suggest the prophylactical potential of oseltamivir on severe thrombocytopenia associated with the initiation of VA-ECMO.
Design and Experimental Testing of a Force-Augmenting Exoskeleton for the Human Hand
Authors: Triolo Emily , BuSha Brett 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BackgroundMany older Americans suffer from long-term upper limb dysfunction, decreased grip strength, and/or a reduced ability to hold objects due to injuries and a variety of age-related illnesses. The objective of this study was to design and build a five-fingered powered assistive exoskeleton for the human hand, and to validate its ability to augment the gripping and pinching efforts of the wearer and assist in performing ADLs. MethodsThe exoskeleton device was designed using CAD software and 3-D printed in ABS. Each finger’s movement efforts were individually monitored by a force sensing resistor at each fingertip, and proportionally augmented via the microcontroller-based control scheme, linear actuators, and rigid exoskeleton structure. The force production of the device and the force augmenting capability were assessed on ten healthy individuals include one 5-digit grasping test, three pinching tests, and two functional tests. ResultsUse of the device significantly decreased the forearm muscle activity necessary to maintain a grasping effort (67%,p<0.001), the larger of the pinching efforts (30%,p<0.05), and the palmer pinching effort (67%,p<0.001); however, no benefit by wearing the device was identified while maintaining a minimal pinching effort or attempting one of the functional tests. ConclusionThe exoskeleton device allowed subjects to maintain independent control of each digit, and while wearing the exoskeleton, in both the unpowered and powered states, subjects were able to grasp, hold, and move objects such as a water bottle, bag, smartphone, or dry-erase marker.
InDel Marker Development and QTL Analysis of Agronomic Traits in Mung Bean [Vigna Radiate (L.) Wilczek]
Authors: Ye Weijun , Yang Yong , Wang Peiran , Zhang Yin , Zhang Liya , Tian Dongfeng , Zhang Lei , Zhang Lingling , Zhou Bin 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
The stem color of young mung bean is a very useful tool in germplasm identification. Flowering time and plant height (PH) are known to be strongly correlated with crop adaption and yield. However, few studies have focused on elucidating the genetic mechanisms that regulate these five particular traits: young stem color (YSC), days to first flowering (DFF), days to maturity (DM), PH, and nodes on main stem (NMS). In this study, a genetic linkage map for the F2 population was constructed using 129 InDel markers that were developed based on the sequence variations between parents. A total of 14 QTLs related to YSC, DFF, DM, PH, and NMS were detected. These QTLs were distributed on six chromosomes (1, 3, 4, 6, 7, and 10), which individually accounted for 1.32% to 90.07% of the total phenotypic variation. Using a short and high-density linkage map for the F3 population, six of the seven QTLs which clustered at two intervals on chromosomes 3 and 10 were detected again. Further analysis found that four QTLs between InDel markers R3-15 and R3-19 controlled DFF, DM, PH, and NMS, and each QTL accounted for a large percent of the total phenotypic variation. Analysis of two F2:3 lines also found that the phenotype was highly corresponded to its genotype which is between R3-15 and R3-19. Phenotype and genotype analysis for 30 mung bean accessions showed that the major effect QTL qDFF3 was a key regulator for days to DFF. Using a map-based cloning method, the major effect QTL qYSC4 for YSC was mapped in a 347 Kb interval on chromosome 4. Candidate gene analysis showed that sequence variations and expression level differences existed in the predicted candidate gene between the parents. These results provide a theoretical basis for cloning these QTLs and marker-assisted selection.
The Indelible Challenges of Student Retention in Higher Education: Imperatives for a Closer Scrutiny
Authors: Tamrat Wondwosen 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Student attrition remains a serious challenge for universities across the globe despite the extended attention it continues to attract. Given the meagre research available in the Global South and particularly in Africa, this study was conducted to assess the status of student attrition in 15 Ethiopian public universities. The study examined the scope, nature and causes of student attrition at the level of institutions, programs and gender wise. The findings revealed that the attrition rate at Ethiopian public universities manifests a high level of waste that goes against the national ambition of expanding higher education through wider participation and student success. Universities were also found deficient in terms of tracking the progress of their students, hampering their potential for follow up and early interventions. It is argued that closer scrutiny and robust responses are needed both at policy and institutional levels in order to bring about the improvements sought.