bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Metagenomic insights into the diversity of carbohydrate-degrading enzymes in the yak fecal microbial community
Authors: Gong Ga , Zhou Saisai , Luo Runbo , Gesang Zhuoma , Suolang Sizhu 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Yaks are able to utilize the gastrointestinal microbiota to digest plant materials. Although the cellulolytic bacteria in the yak rumen have been reported, there is still limited information on the diversity of the major microorganisms and putative carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes for the degradation of complex lignocellulosic biomass in its gut ecosystem. Results: Here, this study aimed to decode biomass-degrading genes and genomes in the yak fecal microbiota using deep metagenome sequencing. A comprehensive catalog comprising 4.5 million microbial genes from the yak feces were established based on metagenomic assemblies from 92 Gb sequencing data. We identified a full spectrum of genes encoding carbohydrate-active enzymes, three-quarters of which were assigned to highly diversified enzyme families involved in the breakdown of complex dietary carbohydrates, including 120 families of glycoside hydrolases, 25 families of polysaccharide lyases, and 15 families of carbohydrate esterases. Inference of taxonomic assignments to the carbohydrate-degrading genes revealed the major microbial contributors were Bacteroidaceae, Ruminococcaceae, Rikenellaceae, Clostridiaceae, and Prevotellaceae. Furthermore, 68 prokaryotic genomes were reconstructed and the genes encoding glycoside hydrolases involved in plant-derived polysaccharide degradation were identified in these uncultured genomes, many of which were novel species with lignocellulolytic capability. Conclusions: Our findings shed light on a great diversity of carbohydrate-degrading enzymes in the yak gut microbial community and uncultured species, which provides a useful genetic resource for future studies on the discovery of novel enzymes for industrial applications.
Serious non-fatal unintentional injuries among in-school adolescents in Sri Lanka: results from the 2016 Sri Lankan Global School-Based Health Survey
Authors: Wickramasinghe Sashimali , Gunawardena Nalika , Punyadasa Dhanusha , Gunawardena Shanthi , Wickramasinghe Champika , Lokubalasooriya Ayesha , Peiris Renuka , Senanayake Sameera 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background Unintentional injuries among adolescents is a major public health problem the world over. A great majority of the annual deaths among adolescents is due to unintentional injuries; it is also the leading cause of death among adolescents in the world. The aim of this study was to estimate the incidence of injuries and their associated factors among school going adolescents aged 13-17 years using data from the most recent Global School-Based Health Survey (GSHS) conducted in Sri Lanka. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire, among 3,262 adolescents attending government schools. The sample was selected through a two-staged cluster sampling technique. In the first stage, 40 schools were selected using probabilities proportional to school enrollment size, from all schools in the country that have classes in grades 8-12 . Then, from the selected schools, classes were selected using systematic equal probability sampling with a random start. The weighted prevalence was calculated, and logistic regression analysis was conducted in order to determine the correlates. Results During the 12 months before the survey, 35.8% (95% CI-30.7 - 41.1) of the students reported being seriously injured one or more times. The injuries were more common among males, but were equally common among the two different age groups (13-15 age group vs 16-17 age group). The most common type of injury was cut or stab wounds (5.5%), followed by broken bones/dislocated joints (5.3%). Multivariable analysis revealed that only a few factors were associated with injury, such as being of the male sex, being bullied, being physically attacked, and/or being in a physical fight. Conclusion This study demonstrated that the prevalence of serious unintentional injuries among school going adolescents is a major public health problem in Sri Lanka. This timely and comprehensive survey would help policy makers and researchers identify the unmet needs related to adolescent injuries. Furthermore, evidence generated form the study should be given due consideration when designing school-based interventions to prevent adolescent injuries.
Circulating Receptor Activator of Nuclear factor kB Ligand and triglycerides are associated with progression of lower limb arterial calcification in Type 2 Diabetes: a prospective, observational cohort study.
Authors: Bourron Olivier , Phan Franck , Diallo Mamadou Hassimiou , Hajage David , Aubert Carole-Elodie , Carlier Aurélie , Salem Joe-Elie , Funck-Brentano Christian , Kemel Salim , Cluzel Philippe , Redheuil Alban , Davaine Jean-Michel , Massy Ziad , Mentaverri romuald , Bonnefont-Rousselot Dominique , Gillery Philippe , Jaisson Stéphane , Vermeer Cees , Lacorte Jean-Marc , Bouziri Nesrine , Laroche Suzanne , Amouyal Chloé , Hartemann Agnès 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Lower limb arterial calcification is a frequent, underestimated but serious complication of diabetes. The DIACART study is a prospective cohort study designed to evaluate the determinants of the progression of lower limb arterial calcification in 198 patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods: Lower limb arterial calcification scores were determined by computed tomography at baseline and after a mean follow up of 31.20 +/-3.86 months. Serum RANKL (Receptor Activator of Nuclear factor kB Ligand) and bone remodeling, inflammatory and metabolic parameters were measured at baseline. The predictive effect of these markers on calcification progression was analyzed by a multivariate linear regression model. Results: At baseline, mean+/-SD and median lower limb arterial calcification scores were, 2364+/- 5613 and 527 respectively and at the end of the study, 3739 +/- 6886 and 1355 respectively. Using multivariate analysis, the progression of lower limb arterial log calcification score was found to be associated with (β coefficient [slope], 95%CI, p-value) baseline log(calcification score) (1.02, 1.00–1.04, p<0.001), triglycerides (0.11, 0.03–0.20, p=0.007), log(RANKL) (0.07, 0.02–0.11, p=0.016), previous ischemic cardiomyopathy (0.36, 0.15–0.57, p=0.001), statin use (0.39, 0.06–0.72, p=0.023) and duration of follow up (0.04, 0.01–0.06, p=0.004). Conclusion: In patients with Type 2 Diabetes, lower limb arterial calcification is frequent and can progress rapidly. Circulating RANKL and triglycerides are independently associated with this progression. These results open new therapeutic perspectives in peripheral diabetic calcifying arteriopathy.Trial registration: NCT02431234
Employment transitions for spouses of stroke survivors: Evidence from Swedish national registries
Authors: Persson Josefine , Hensing Gunnel , Bonander Carl 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: The sudden occurrence of stroke often leads to impaired physical, emotional, and cognitive abilities. Many stroke survivors therefore require support from their family members. However, little is known about the effects of a stroke event on the spouses’ employment transition probabilities. The aim of this study was twofold 1) to investigate whether a first ever stroke has an effect on employment transition probabilities for employed and unemployed spouses and 2) to analyze whether heterogeneity with respect to age, gender, education and comorbidities influence the size of the effect. Method: Data for this population-based cohort study were extracted from Swedish national registries from 2005 to 2016. The national sample consisted of 1,818 spouses of first ever stroke survivors during 2010 and 2011, and 7,399 matched controls that were employed or unemployed during five years prior stroke onset. Effects of stroke on spousal employment transitions were analyzed using linear regression, stratified by employment status prior to stroke onset. Results: Employed spouses prior stroke onset reduced their employment by -1.3 percentage points (95% CI: -2.4, -0.2). The data also indicated that employed spouses with lower age, comorbid conditions, and low educational attainment may be at even greater risk of transitioning to unemployment. On the other hand, stroke events appear to have limited impact on spouses that were unemployed prior to stroke onset. Conclusion: The risk of transitioning to unemployment appears to increase after stroke onset for spouses of stroke survivors, and disadvantaged groups may be at even greater risk. Thus, it is important for policy-makers to implement interventions to ensure that these groups of spouses have the possibilities to combine their caregiving role and remaining in the labor market.
Evaluating the genetic effects of sex hormone traits on the development of mental traits: a polygenic score analysis and genome-wide genetic interaction analysis in UK Biobank cohort
Authors: Liang Xiao , Cheng ShiQiang , Ye Jing , Chu XiaoMeng , Wen Yan , Liu Li , Qi Xin , Jia YuMeng , Zhang Feng 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the genetic effects of sex hormone traits on the development of mental traits in middle-aged adults.Methods: The SNPs associated with sex hormone traits were derived from a two-stage genome-wide association study (GWAS). Four sex hormone traits were selected in the current study, including sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), testosterone, bioavailable testosterone and estradiol. The polygenic risk score (PRS) of sex hormone traits were calculated from individual-level genotype data of the United Kingdom (UK) Biobank cohort. We then used logistic and linear regression models to assess the associations between individual PRS of sex hormone traits and the frequency of alcohol consumption, anxiety, intelligence and so on. Finally, genome-wide genetic interaction study (GWGIS) was performed to detect novel candidate genes interacting with the sex hormone traits on the development of fluid intelligence and the frequency of smoking and alcohol consumption by PLINK2.0.Results: We observed positive association between SHBG and the frequency of alcohol consumption (b=0.0101, p=3.84×10–11) in middle-aged males and females. In addition, estradiol was positively associated with the frequency of alcohol consumption (b=0.0128, p=1,96×10–8), fluid intelligence (b=0.0084, p=1.90×10–2) and the frequency of smoking (b=0.0054, p=1.77×10–2) in middle-aged males. Moreover, SHBG was associated with the frequency of alcohol consumption (b=0.0067, p=2.60×10–3), fluid intelligence (b=0.0067, p=4.25×10–2) and anxiety (b=-0.0071, p=3.79×10–2) in middle-aged females. Finally, GWGIS identified one significant loci, Tenascin R (TNR) (rs34633780, p=3.45×10–8) interacting with total testosterone for fluid intelligence.Conclusion: Our study results support the genetic effects of sex hormone traits on the development of intelligence and the frequency of alcohol consumption in middle-aged adults in UK.
Non-contact restoration of missing parts of stone Buddha statue based on three-dimensional virtual modeling and assembly simulation
Authors: Jo Young Hoon , Hong Seonghyuk , Jo Seong Yeon , Kwon Yoon Mi 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) digital technology is one of the most essential conservation methods that complements the traditional technique of the restoration of cultural artifacts. In this study, 3D scanning, virtual restoration modeling, and 3D printing were used as a non-contact approach for the restoration of a damaged stone seated Bodhisattva (stone Buddha statue). First, a three-dimensional model with an average point density of 0.2 mm was created by integrating the fixed high-precision scanning of the exterior and the handheld mid-precision scanning of the interior excavated hole. Through a 3D deterioration map of the stone Buddha statue, the area of the missing parts was measured as 400.1 cm 2 (5.5% of the total area). Moreover, 257.1 cm 2 (64.2% of the missing part area) of four parts such as the head, the surrounding area of the Baekho, the right ear, and the right eye, for which symmetry was applicable for modeling or there could be ascertainable historical evidence for the total missing parts, was selected for restoration. The virtual restoration of the missing parts of the stone Buddha statue was performed using a haptic modeling system in the following order. First, the location of the three fragments detached from the head was determined. Next, the reference model was selected, and its symmetrization and modification with respect to the original were conducted. Also, estimation modeling and outer shape description were performed through historical research and consultation with experts. The created virtual-restoration model’s (461 cm 3 ) heuristic-based assembly suitability was verified by design mock-up printing and digital–analog simulation. In particular, to address the assembly interference, the interface surface was modified and reprocessed several times. Accordingly, the final design mock-up’s volume size was decreased by 5.2% (437 cm 3 ). Photopolymerization 3D printing technology was used for the actual restoration of the stone Buddha statue and the layer thickness of the material used was set as 0.10 mm considering the surface roughness. Finally, the surface of the printed output was colored to prevent yellowing and joined to the missing part of the stone Buddha statue. This study presents a great case to shift from the traditional manual-contact method to the contactless digital method for the restoration of artifacts and is expected to largely contribute to increasing the usability of digital technologies in the restoration of cultural artifacts.
Transgenic and knockout analyses of Masculinizer and doublesex illuminated the unique functions of doublesex in germ cell sexual development of the silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Yuzawa Tomohisa , Matsuoka Misato , Sumitani Megumi , Aoki Fugaku , Sezutsu Hideki , Suzuki Masataka 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Masculinizer (Masc) plays a pivotal role in male sex determination in the silkworm, Bombyx mori. Masc is required for male-specific splicing of B. mori doublesex (Bmdsx) transcripts. The male isoform of Bmdsx (BmdsxM) induces male differentiation in somatic cells, while females express the female isoform of Bmdsx (BmdsxF), which promotes female differentiation in somatic cells. Our previous findings suggest that Masc could direct the differentiation of genetically female (ZW) germ cells into sperms. However, it remains unclear whether Masc directly induces spermatogenesis of if it promotes male differentiation in germ cells indirectly by inducing the expression of BmdsxM. Results: In this study, we performed genetic analyses using a transgenic line that expressed Masc, as well as various Bmdsx knockout lines. Masc-expressing females express both BmdsxF and BmdsxM and have degenerated ovaries combined with testis-like tissues, which produce sperm. We found that Masc-expressing females with a homozygous mutation in BmdsxM showed normal development in ovaries. The formation of testis-like tissues was abolished in these females. In comparison, Masc-expressing females carrying a homozygous mutation in BmdsxF exhibited almost complete male-specific development in gonads and germ cells. These results suggest that BmdsxM can induce male development in germ cells and internal genital organs, while BmdsxF inhibits BmdsxM activity and represses male differentiation. To investigate whether MASC directly controls male-specific splicing of Bmdsx and identify RNAs that form complexes with MASC in testes, we performed RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) using an anti-MASC antibody. We found that MASC formed a complex with AS1 lncRNA , which is a testis-specific factor involved in the male-specific splicing of Bmdsx pre-mRNA . Conclusions: Taken together, our findings suggest that Masc induces male differentiation in gonads and germ cells by enhancing the production of BmdsxM. Physical interaction between MASC and AS1 lncRNA may be important for the BmdsxM expression in the testis. Unlike Drosophila dsx, BmdsxM was able to induce spermatogenesis in genetically female (ZW) germ cells. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report that the role of dsx in germ cell sexual development is different between insect species.
Connective tissue remodelling is differently modulated by Tocilizumab versus Methotrexate monotherapy in patients with early Rheumatoid Arthritis: the AMBITION study
Authors: Drobinski Patryk J. , Bay-Jensen Anne C. , Karsdal Morten A. , Sardar Samra , Siebuhr Anne S. 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
OBJECTIVEAssociations between Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and effect of treatment at the tissue levels are poorly understood. We investigated the scope of released extracellular matrix (ECM) metabolites as a consequence of tissue remodeling in patients treated with Methotrexate (MTX) and Tocilizumab (TCZ) compared to placebo.METHODSTissue metabolites from 387 RA patients treated with either TCZ (8 mg/kg) or MTX monotherapy (7.5-20 mg/kg) were measured at baseline and 8-weeks sera by validated ELISA assays. The levels of collagen biomarkers (C1M, C2M, C3M and C4M) together with C-reactive protein (CRP) and CRP metabolite (CRPM) were investigated. Baseline levels of biomarkers have been compared with 72 age and gender matched healthy controls. Comparison between treatment and response groups were done by ANCOVA, Spearman’s correlation and Logistic regression adjusted for age, gender, BMI and disease duration.RESULTSC1M and C3M, were significantly (P<0.05) inhibited by TCZ and C3M by MTX (P<0.01) compared to placebo. C1M and C3M inhibition with TCZ was respectively 23% and 16% greater than that of MTX (P<0.01 and P<0.0001). C4M was inhibited by TCZ and MTX, but the effect of TCZ was 22% greater than MTX (P<0.0001). TCZ and MTX had minimal effect on C2M levels. MTX had no effect on CRP and CRPM, whereas TCZ reduced their levels to 69% and 27% from baseline. Investigated biomarkers revealed a significant (P<0.05) differences in biomarker profiles of MTX ACR50 treatment responders and non-responders. Change to week 8 in levels of C3M, C4M, CRP and CRPM in MTX patients correlated significantly (rho=0.41 to 0.18, P<0.0001 to 0.039) with change in disease activity (DAS28) at week 8, 16 and 24, whereas only CRP in TCZ patients (rho=0.32 to 0.21, P<0.0001 to 0.01).CONCLUSIONPatients receiving TCZ treatment for 8 weeks had higher suppression of tissue remodeling and inflammatory biomarkers over patients treated with MTX. Measured biomarkers enabled for a discrimination of biomarker profiles of ACR50 treatment responding patients and identification of those who benefit at the early time-point. Week 8 change in levels of C3M, C4M, CRP and CRPM significantly predicted clinical response to treatment and correlated with DAS28 at all time-points.NAME OF THE REGISTRY: A Study to Assess the Safety and Efficacy of Tocilizumab in Patients with Active Rheumatoid ArthritisTRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT00109408DATE OF REGISTRATION: JULY 2005URL OF TRIAL REGISTRY RECORD: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00109408
Calcitonin gene related peptide monoclonal antibody treats headache in patients with active idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Authors: Yiangou Andreas , Mitchell James , Vijay Vivek , Grech Olivia , Bilton Edward , Lavery Gareth , Fisher Claire , Edwards Julie , Mollan Susan , Sinclair Alexandra 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
BackgroundHeadache is the dominant factor for quality of life related disability in idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) and typically has migraine-like characteristics. There are currently no evidence-based therapeutics for headache in IIH, and consequently this is an important unmet clinical need.Case seriesWe report a series of seven patients in whom headaches were the presenting feature of IIH the headaches had migraine-like characteristics, as is typical in many IIH patients. Papilledema settled (ocular remission) but headaches continued. These headaches responded markedly to erenumab, a monoclonal antibody targeted against the calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) receptor. Of note, there was a recurrence of raised ICP, as evidenced by a return of the papilloedema, however the headaches did not recur whilst treated with erenumab.ConclusionsThose with prior IIH who have their headaches successfully treated with CGRP therapy, should remain under close ocular surveillance (particularly when weight gain is evident) as papilloedema can re-occur in the absence of headache. These cases may suggest that CGRP could be a mechanistic driver for headache in patients with active IIH.
Medical interns’ reflections on their training in use of personal protective equipment.
Authors: Barratt Ruth , Wyer Mary , Hor Su-yin , Gilbert Gwendolyn L 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background The current COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential, to prevent the acquisition and transmission of infectious diseases, yet its use is often sub-optimal in the clinical setting. Training and education are important to ensure and sustain the safe and effective use of PPE by medical interns, but current methods are often inadequate in providing the relevant knowledge and skills. The purpose of this study was to explore medical graduates’ experiences of the use of PPE and identify opportunities for improvement in education and training programmes, to improve occupational and patient safety.Methods This study was undertaken in 2018 in a large tertiary-care teaching hospital in Sydney, Australia, to explore medical interns’ self-reported experiences of PPE use, at the beginning of their internship. Reflexive groups were conducted immediately after theoretical and practical PPE training, during hospital orientation. Transcripts of recorded discussions were analysed, using a thematic approach that drew on the COM-B (capability, opportunity, motivation - behaviour) framework for behaviour. Results 80% of 90 eligible graduates participated. Many interns had not previously received formal training in the specific skills required for optimal PPE use and had developed potentially unsafe habits. Their experiences as medical students in clinical areas contrasted sharply with recommended practice taught at hospital orientation and impacted on their ability to cultivate correct PPE use. Conclusions Undergraduate teaching should be consistent with best practice PPE use, and include practical training that embeds correct and safe practices.