bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing genomic diversity and signatures of selection in Jiaxian Red cattle using whole-genome sequencing data
Authors: Xia Xiaoting , Zhang Shunjin , Zhang Huaju , Zhang Zijing , Chen Ningbo , Li Zhigang , Sun Hongxia , Liu Xian , Lyu Shijie , Wang Xianwei , Li Zhiming , Yang Peng , Xu Jiawei , Ding Xiaoting , Shi Qiaoting , Wang Eryao , Ru Baorui , Xu Zejun , Lei Chuzhao , Chen Hong , Huang Yongzhen
Published: January 2021

Background

Native cattle breeds are an important source of genetic variation because they might carry alleles that enable them to adapt to local environment and tough feeding conditions. Jiaxian Red, a Chinese native cattle breed, is reported to have originated from crossbreeding between taurine and indicine cattle; their history as a draft and meat animal dates back at least 30 years. Using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data of 30 animals from the core breeding farm, we investigated the genetic diversity, population structure and genomic regions under selection of Jiaxian Red cattle. Furthermore, we used 131 published genomes of world-wide cattle to characterize the genomic variation of Jiaxian Red cattle.

Results

The population structure analysis revealed that Jiaxian Red cattle harboured the ancestry with East Asian taurine (0.493), Chinese indicine (0.379), European taurine (0.095) and Indian indicine (0.033). Three methods (nucleotide diversity, linkage disequilibrium decay and runs of homozygosity) implied the relatively high genomic diversity in Jiaxian Red cattle. We used θπ, CLR, FST and XP-EHH methods to look for the candidate signatures of positive selection in Jiaxian Red cattle. A total number of 171 (θπ and CLR) and 17 (FST and XP-EHH) shared genes were identified using different detection strategies. Functional annotation analysis revealed that these genes are potentially responsible for growth and feed efficiency (CCSER1), meat quality traits (ROCK2, PPP1R12A, CYB5R4, EYA3, PHACTR1), fertility (RFX4, SRD5A2) and immune system response (SLAMF1, CD84 and SLAMF6).

Conclusion

We provide a comprehensive overview of sequence variations in Jiaxian Red cattle genomes. Selection signatures were detected in genomic regions that are possibly related to economically important traits in Jiaxian Red cattle. We observed a high level of genomic diversity and low inbreeding in Jiaxian Red cattle. These results provide a basis for further resource protection and breeding improvement of this breed.
Interaction study of Pasteurella multocida with culturable aerobic bacteria isolated from porcine respiratory tracts using coculture in conditioned media
Authors: Hanchanachai Nonzee , Chumnanpuen Pramote , E-kobon Teerasak
Published: January 2021

Background

The porcine respiratory tract harbours multiple microorganisms, and the interactions between these organisms could be associated with animal health status. Pasteurella multocida is a culturable facultative anaerobic bacterium isolated from healthy and diseased porcine respiratory tracts. The interaction between P. multocida and other aerobic commensal bacteria in the porcine respiratory tract is not well understood. This study aimed to determine the interactions between porcine P. multocida capsular serotype A and D strains and other culturable aerobic bacteria isolated from porcine respiratory tracts using a coculture assay in conditioned media followed by calculation of the growth rates and interaction parameters.

Results

One hundred and sixteen bacterial samples were isolated from five porcine respiratory tracts, and 93 isolates were identified and phylogenetically classified into fourteen genera based on 16S rRNA sequences. Thirteen isolates from Gram-negative bacterial genera and two isolates from the Gram-positive bacterial genus were selected for coculture with P. multocida. From 17 × 17 (289) interaction pairs, the majority of 220 pairs had negative interactions indicating competition for nutrients and space, while 17 pairs were identified as mild cooperative or positive interactions indicating their coexistence. All conditioned media, except those of Acinetobacter, could inhibit P. multocida growth. Conversely, the conditioned media of P. multocida also inhibited the growth of nine isolates plus themselves.

Conclusion

Negative interaction was the major interactions among the coculture of these 15 representative isolates and the coculture with P. multocida. The conditioned media in this study might be further analysed to identify critical molecules and examined by the in vivo experiments. The study proposed the possibility of using these molecules in conditioned media to control P. multocida growth.
Survey of perceptions and educational needs of primary care providers regarding management of patients with class II and III obesity in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Zevin Boris , Martin Mary , Dalgarno Nancy , Chan Linda , Sivapalan Nardhana , Houlden Robyn , Birtwhistle Richard , Smith Karen , Barber David
Published: January 2021

Background

Primary care providers (PCPs) are typically the primary contact for patients with obesity seeking medical and surgical weight loss interventions; however, previous studies suggest that fewer than 7% of eligible adult patients are referred to publically funded medical and surgical weight loss interventions (MSWLI).

Methods

We performed an anonymous survey study between October 2017 and June 2018 to explore the knowledge, experiences, perceptions, and educational needs of PCPs in Southeastern Ontario in managing patients with class II and III obesity.

Results

Surveys were distributed to 591 PCPs (n = 538 family physicians;n = 53 nurse practitioners) identified as practicing in the Southeastern Ontario and 92 (15.6%) participated. PCPs serving a rural population estimated that 14.2 ± 10.9% of patients would qualify for MSWLI compared to 9.9 ± 8.5% of patients of PCPs serving an urban population (p = .049). Overall, 57.5% of respondents did not feel competent prescribing MSWLI to patients with class II/III obesity, while 69.8% stated they had ‘good’ knowledge of the referral criteria for MSWLI. 22.2% of respondents were hesitant to refer patients for bariatric surgery (BS) due to concerns about postoperative surgical complications and risks associated with surgery. Only 25% of respondents were comfortable providing long-term follow up after BS, and only 39.1% had participated in continuing education on management of patients with class II/III obesity in the past 5 years.

Conclusion

The majority of PCPs believe there is a need for additional education about MSWLI for patients with class II/III obesity. Future studies are needed to develop and compare the effectiveness of additional education and professional development around risks of contemporary BS, indications to consider referral for MSWLI, management and long-term follow-up of patients after BS.
Design characteristics and inclusion of evidence-based exercise recommendation in fall prevention community exercise programs for older adults in Canada: a national descriptive self-report study
Authors: Touchette Alexie J. , Oates Alison R. , Menec Verena H. , Sibley Kathryn M.
Published: January 2021

Background

Training balance through exercise is an effective strategy to reduce falls in community-dwelling older adults. Evidence-based fall prevention exercise recommendations have been proposed, specifying that exercise programs should: (1) provide a high challenge to balance, (2) be offered for a least three hours per week, (3) be provided on an ongoing basis. Community exercise programs have the potential to deliver effective fall prevention exercise; however, current design characteristics and whether they include the recommendations is not known. This study described design characteristics of fall prevention community exercise programs for older adults (50 years and older) across Canada, and explored whether these programs included the three evidence-based exercise recommendations.

Methods

Instructors of fall prevention community exercise programs completed electronic self-report questionnaires following a modified Dillman recruitment approach. Questions explored program characteristics, exercise content, target population, and program and instructor demographic information. Using a previously developed coding scheme based on recommendations, exercises were coded for balance challenge.

Results

One hundred fourty completed eligible questionnaires were analyzed (74% response rate). One hundred thirty-three programs (95%) included the challenge recommendation by prescribing mostly moderate or high challenge balance exercises, 16 programs (11%) included at least three hours of exercise a week, and 59 programs (42%) were offered on an ongoing basis. Eight programs (6%) included all three recommendations.

Conclusions

Most programs included at least one recommendation for effective fall prevention exercise. Future studies should examine organizational barriers and facilitators to incorporating evidence-based exercise recommendations and explore the use of mixed home/in-class strategies to include the recommendations.
Do cognitive performance and physical function differ between individuals with motoric cognitive risk syndrome and those with mild cognitive impairment?
Authors: Cheng Fang-Yu , Chang Yuanmay , Cheng Shih-Jung , Shaw Jin-Siang , Lee Chuo-Yu , Chen Pei-Hao
Published: January 2021

Background

Motoric cognitive risk syndrome (MCR) is defined by slow gait speed combined with subjective cognitive complaint. MCR is a predementia syndrome, similar to mild cognitive impairment (MCI). However, there is currently no study comparing the differences in cognitive performance and physical function between these two types of cognitive impairment. Thus, the aim of this study is to compare cognitive performance and physical function in individuals with MCR versus MCI.

Methods

A total of 77 participants, free of dementia, were recruited from the neurological outpatient clinic of a medical center in Taiwan. Participants were separated into 2 groups, MCR (n = 33) and MCI (n = 44) groups, based on definition criteria from previous studies. The priority was to assign a diagnosis of MCR first, followed by MCI. Hence, “pure” MCI had no overlap with MCR syndrome. Cognitive performance, including executive function, attention, working memory, episode memory, visuospatial function, and language, were measured. Physical functions such as activities in daily living, the Tinetti Assessment Scale, and the Timed Up and Go test were also measured.

Results

Executive function, attention, working memory, episodic memory and language were all significantly lower in the MCR group than the MCI group. Abilities related to physical function, including those measured by the Tinetti Assessment Scale and the Timed Up and Go test, were significantly lower in the MCR group than the MCI group.

Conclusions

We noted that cognitive performance and physical function were lower in MCR individuals than MCI but without MCR syndrome. However, the conclusions were based on the enrollment procedure of participants prioritizes the MCR syndrome. Because of the overlap of MCR and MCI, future studies should use different enrollment strategies to further clarify the status of these two populations.
The effective screening tools for detecting hearing loss in elderly population: HHIE-ST Versus TSQ
Authors: Chayaopas Nichtima , Kasemsiri Pornthep , Thanawirattananit Panida , Piromchai Patorn , Yimtae Kwanchanok
Published: January 2021

Background

Globally increasing number of elders is concerned. Hearing loss process in older adults cannot be avoided. An effective screening tool for hearing loss is essential for proper diagnosis and rehabilitation, which can improve QOL in older adults.

Methods

This prospective-diagnostic test study evaluates the diagnostic value of Thai version of the Hearing Handicap Inventory for Elderly Screening (HHIE-ST) and the Thai Single Question (TSQ) surveys in screening hearing disability in 1109 Thai participants aged 60 years and older in communities in four provinces in Thailand. The HHIE-ST consisted of 10 selected questions from the validated HHIE-Thai version. A TSQ survey was developed to have the same meaning as an English Single Question survey. The participants answered both questionnaires, and a standard audiometry test assessed with air conduction from 250 to 8000 Hz was included as a gold standard.

Results

The prevalence of hearing disability was 38.34%. The HHIE-ST achieved a sensitivity of 88.96% (95% CI 85.77–91.64) and specificity of 52.19% (95% CI 48.24–56.13) for diagnosis hearing disability in Thai older adults, whereas the TSQ yielded a sensitivity of 88.73% and a specificity of 55.93%. A combined test including the HHIE-ST and TSQ achieved better performance with sensitivity of 85.29% and specificity of 60.13%.

Conclusions

Either the HHIE-ST or the TSQ is a sensitive and useful tool for screening hearing disability in Thai older adults. Using the HHIE-ST together with the TSQ resulted in a better screening tool for detecting moderate hearing loss older adults who will benefit and recommended for hearing rehabilitation.

Trial registration

The study is registered with the following number in the Thai Clinical Trials Registry: TCTR20151015003. Date of registration October 14, 2015.
Increased investment in gametocytes in asymptomatic Plasmodium falciparum infections in the wet season
Authors: Oduma Colins O. , Ogolla Sidney , Atieli Harrysone , Ondigo Bartholomew N. , Lee Ming-Chieh , Githeko Andrew K. , Dent Arlene E. , Kazura James W. , Yan Guiyun , Koepfli Cristian
Published: January 2021

Background

Transmission stemming from asymptomatic infections is increasingly being recognized as a threat to malaria elimination. In many regions, malaria transmission is seasonal. It is not well understood whether Plasmodium falciparum modulates its investment in transmission to coincide with seasonal vector abundance.

Methods

We sampled 1116 asymptomatic individuals in the wet season, when vectors are abundant, and 1743 in the dry season, in two sites in western Kenya, representing different transmission intensities (Chulaimbo, moderate transmission, and Homa Bay, low transmission). Blood samples were screened for P. falciparum by qPCR, and gametocytes by pfs25 RT-qPCR.

Results

Parasite prevalence by qPCR was 27.1% (Chulaimbo, dry), 48.2% (Chulaimbo, wet), 9.4% (Homabay, dry), and 7.8% (Homabay, wet). Mean parasite densities did not differ between seasons (P = 0.562). pfs25 transcripts were detected in 119/456 (26.1%) of infections. In the wet season, fewer infections harbored detectable gametocytes (22.3% vs. 33.8%, P = 0.009), but densities were 3-fold higher (wet: 3.46 transcripts/uL, dry: 1.05 transcripts/uL, P < 0.001). In the dry season, 4.0% of infections carried gametocytes at moderate-to-high densities likely infective (> 1 gametocyte per 2 uL blood), compared to 7.9% in the wet season. Children aged 5–15 years harbored 76.7% of infections with gametocytes at moderate-to-high densities.

Conclusions

Parasites increase their investment in transmission in the wet season, reflected by higher gametocyte densities. Despite increased gametocyte densities, parasite density remained similar across seasons and were often below the limit of detection of microscopy or rapid diagnostic test, thus a large proportion of infective infections would escape population screening in the wet season. Seasonal changes of gametocytemia in asymptomatic infections need to be considered when designing malaria control measures.
Relationship of socio-demographics, comorbidities, symptoms and healthcare access with early COVID-19 presentation and disease severity
Authors: Vaughan Laura , Veruttipong Darlene , Shaw Jonathan G. , Levy Noemie , Edwards Lauren , Winget Marcy
Published: January 2021

Background

COVID-19 studies are primarily from the inpatient setting, skewing towards severe disease. Race and comorbidities predict hospitalization, however, ambulatory presentation of milder COVID-19 disease and characteristics associated with progression to severe disease is not well-understood.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review including all COVID-19 positive cases from Stanford Health Care (SHC) in March 2020 to assess demographics, comorbidities and symptoms in relationship to: 1) their access point of testing (outpatient, inpatient, and emergency room (ER)) and 2) development of severe disease.

Results

Two hundred fifty-seven patients tested positive: 127 (49%), 96 (37%), and 34 (13%) at outpatient, ER and inpatient, respectively. Overall, 61% were age < 55; age > 75 was rarer in outpatient setting (11%) than ER (14%) or inpatient (24%). Most patients presented with cough (86%), fever/chills (76%), or fatigue (63%). 65% of inpatients reported shortness of breath compared to 30–32% of outpatients and ER patients. Ethnic/minority patients had a significantly higher risk of developing severe disease (Asian OR = 4.8 [1.6–14.2], Hispanic OR = 3.6 [1.1–11.9]). Medicare-insured patients were marginally more likely (OR = 4.0 [0.9–17.8]). Other factors associated with developing severe disease included kidney disease (OR = 6.1 [1.0–38.1]), cardiovascular disease (OR = 4.7 [1.0–22.1], shortness of breath (OR = 5.4 [2.3–12.6]) and GI symptoms (OR = 3.3 [1.4–7.7]; hypertension without concomitant CVD or kidney disease was marginally significant (OR = 2.3 [0.8–6.5]).

Conclusions

Early widespread symptomatic testing for COVID-19 in Silicon Valley included many less severely ill patients. Thorough manual review of symptomatology reconfirms the heterogeneity of COVID-19 symptoms, and challenges in using clinical characteristics to predict decline. We re-demonstrate that socio-demographics are consistently associated with severity.
LncRNA LINC00240 suppresses invasion and migration in non-small cell lung cancer by sponging miR-7-5p
Authors: Ku Gwan Woo , Kang Yujin , Yu Seong-Lan , Park Joonghoon , Park Sejin , Jeong In Beom , Kang Min Woong , Son Ji Woong , Kang Jaeku
Published: January 2021

Background

lncRNAs have important roles in regulating cancer biology. Accumulating evidence has established a link between the dysregulation of lncRNAs and microRNA in cancer progression. In previous studies, miR-7-5p has been found to be significantly down-regulated in mesenchymal-like lung cancer cell lines and directly regulated EGFR. In this work, we investigated the lncRNA partner of miR-7-5p in the progression of lung cancer.

Methods

We investigated the expression of miR-7-5p and the lncRNA after transfection with an miR-7-5p mimics using a microarray. The microarray results were validated using quantitative real time-polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). The regulatory effects of lncRNA on miR-7-5p and its target were evaluated by changes in the expression of miR-7-5p after transfection with siRNAs for lncRNA and the synthesis of full-length lncRNA. The effect of miR-7-5p on lncRNA and the miRNA target was evaluated after transfection with miRNA mimic and inhibitor. The role of lncRNA in cancer progression was determined using invasion and migration assays. The level of lncRNA and EGFR in lung cancer and normal lung tissue was analyzed using TCGA data.

Results

We found that LINC00240 was downregulated in lung cancer cell line after miR-7-5p transfection with an miR-7-5p mimic. Further investigations revealed that the knockdown of LINC00240 induced the overexpression of miR-7-5p. The overexpression of miR-7-5p diminished cancer invasion and migration. The EGFR expression was down regulated after siRNA treatment for LINC00240. Silencing LINC00240 suppressed the invasion and migration of lung cancer cells, whereas LINC00240 overexpression exerted the opposite effect. The lower expression of LINC00240 in squamous lung cancer was analyzed using TCGA data.

Conclusions

Taken together, LINC00240 acted as a sponge for miR-7-5p and induced the overexpression of EGFR. LINC00240 may represent a potential target for the treatment of lung cancer.
The impact of ICAM-1, CCL2 and TGM2 gene polymorphisms on differentiation syndrome in acute promyelocytic leukemia
Authors: Mohammadzadeh Zahra , Omidkhoda Azadeh , Chahardouli Bahram , Hoseinzadeh Ghazaleh , Moghaddam Kamran Ali , Mousavi Seyed Asadollah , Rostami Shahrbano
Published: January 2021

Background

Although arsenic trioxide (ATO) and all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) are well-tolerated and effective treatments for Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL), Differentiation Syndrome (DS) is a lethal side effect in some patients. The pathogenesis of DS is complex and not well understood; however, it is considered as an inflammatory response due to cytokines release of differentiated cells. Moreover, adhesion molecules that are widely expressed on the surface of differentiated cells and gene expression changes of transglutaminase2 (TGM2) are mechanisms involved in the development of DS. The purpose of this study was to assess the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) of Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 (ICAM-1), chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2) and TGM2 as inflammatory factors with differentiation syndrome susceptibility.

Methods

DNA was extracted from 133 APL patients and 100 normal controls. Assessment according to the PETHEMA criteria revealed that 13.5% of these patients experienced differentiation syndrome. Tetra-ARMS PCR and PCR-RFLP were done to amplify DNA fragments in APL patients with and without DS. Then DNA sequencing was done to validate the results. SNPStats, SPSS and Finch TV were used to analyze the results.

Results

A significant correlation was found between rs4811528 in the TGM2 gene and differentiation syndrome susceptibility (P = 0.002, 95% CI = 1.74–18.81, OR = 5.72) while rs5498 in ICAM-1, rs1024611 in CCL2, and rs7270785 in TGM2 genes showed no correlation with differentiation syndrome. The G allele of rs7270785 and rs4811528 showed a haplotypic association with differentiation syndrome (P = 0.03, 95% CI = 1.13–13.86, OR = 3.96).

Conclusions

AA genotype of the TGM2 SNP (rs4811528) may be a risk factor for development of DS in patients with APL following the use of ATRA/ATO.
Optic neuritis of MOG-IgG-associated autoimmune disorders: a case report
Authors: Li Tiantian , Zhou Jian , Yan Xiaoling , Duan Ran , Zhu Xiaobo
Published: January 2021

Background

The diagnosis of immunoglobulin G serum antibodies to myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG-IgG) associated inflammatory demyelinating disorders can be confirmed by the presence of MOG-IgG, yet its general cut-off concentration had not yet to be defined. Whether it is significant that a seropositive lower titer level for MOG-IgG could cause disease is still unknown.

Case presentation

A 55-year-old Chinese woman presented with acute optic neuritis manifestations in the left eye. MRI showed a left optic nerve demyelination image and a T2 hyperintensity at C7 vertebral segment without any extra specific lesions. AQP4-IgG was tested seronegative, while the MOG-IgG was positive, titer 1:10, by indirect immunofluorescence. Considering the lower concentration, we retested serum MOG-IgG after 6 months of steroid therapy, using cell-based assay, then we still got the same result which was also barely above the negative cut-off value. So, the clinical diagnose was “possible MOG-IgG-associated encephalomyelitis”. The woman’s condition improved by steroid therapy without relapse.

Conclusions

Seropositive MOG-IgG, even at a lower level, could lead to an autoimmune inflammatory demyelination. In adults, it commonly presents as ON and myelitis. Although the patient had a considerable reaction, steroid therapy could not make MOG-IgG seronegative, instead, the antibody may persist even during remission and flare-ups can recur after steroid withdrawal. Therefore, a long-term follow-up is necessary to monitor the patient’s prognosis.
A rapid review of the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of healthcare workers: implications for supporting psychological well-being
Authors: De Kock Johannes H. , Latham Helen Ann , Leslie Stephen J. , Grindle Mark , Munoz Sarah-Anne , Ellis Liz , Polson Rob , O’Malley Christopher M.
Published: January 2021

Background

Health and social care workers (HSCWs) have carried a heavy burden during the COVID-19 crisis and, in the challenge to control the virus, have directly faced its consequences. Supporting their psychological wellbeing continues, therefore, to be a priority. This rapid review was carried out to establish whether there are any identifiable risk factors for adverse mental health outcomes amongst HSCWs during the COVID-19 crisis.

Methods

We undertook a rapid review of the literature following guidelines by the WHO and the Cochrane Collaboration’s recommendations. We searched across 14 databases, executing the search at two different time points. We included published, observational and experimental studies that reported the psychological effects on HSCWs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

The 24 studies included in this review reported data predominantly from China (18 out of 24 included studies) and most sampled urban hospital staff. Our study indicates that COVID-19 has a considerable impact on the psychological wellbeing of front-line hospital staff. Results suggest that nurses may be at higher risk of adverse mental health outcomes during this pandemic, but no studies compare this group with the primary care workforce. Furthermore, no studies investigated the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on social care staff. Other risk factors identified were underlying organic illness, gender (female), concern about family, fear of infection, lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) and close contact with COVID-19. Systemic support, adequate knowledge and resilience were identified as factors protecting against adverse mental health outcomes.

Conclusions

The evidence to date suggests that female nurses with close contact with COVID-19 patients may have the most to gain from efforts aimed at supporting psychological well-being. However, inconsistencies in findings and a lack of data collected outside of hospital settings, suggest that we should not exclude any groups when addressing psychological well-being in health and social care workers. Whilst psychological interventions aimed at enhancing resilience in the individual may be of benefit, it is evident that to build a resilient workforce, occupational and environmental factors must be addressed. Further research including social care workers and analysis of wider societal structural factors is recommended.
Assessing the play and learning environments of children under two years in peri-urban Lima, Peru: a formative research study
Authors: Rothstein Jessica D. , Buckland Audrey J. , Gagnier Kristin , Ochoa Mayra , Allen-Valley Aliya , Jivapong Belinda , Cabrera Lilia Z. , Leontsini Elli , Fisher Kelly R.
Published: January 2021

Background

Home-based interventions have potential for improving early child development (ECD) in low-resource settings. The design of locally acceptable strategies requires an in-depth understanding of the household context. In this formative research study, we aimed to characterize the home play and learning environments of children 6–23 months of age from low-income households in peri-urban Lima, Peru.

Methods

Drawing on the developmental niche framework, we used quantitative and qualitative methods to understand children’s physical and social settings, childcare practices, and caregiver perspectives. We conducted interviews, unstructured video-recorded observations, and spot-checks with 30 randomly selected caregiver-child dyads, 10 from each child age group of 6–11, 12–17, and 18–23 months of age, as well as key informant interviews with 12 daycare instructors. We analyzed the data for key trends and themes using Stata and ATLAS.ti and employed an adapted version of the Indicator of Parent-Child Interaction to evaluate the observations.

Results

Children’s social settings were characterized by multi-generational homes and the presence of siblings and cousins as play partners. Access to books and complex hand-eye coordination toys (e.g., puzzles, building blocks) in the home was limited (30.0 and 40.0%, respectively). Caregivers generally demonstrated low or inconsistent levels of interaction with their children; they rarely communicated using descriptive language or introduced novel, stimulating activities during play. Reading and telling stories to children were uncommon, yet 93.3% of caregivers reported singing to children daily. On average, caregivers ascribed a high learning value to reading books and playing with electronic toys (rated 9.7 and 9.1 out of 10, respectively), and perceived playing with everyday objects in the home as less beneficial (rated 6.8/10). Daycare instructors reinforced the problems posed by limited caregiver-child interaction and supported the use of songs for promoting ECD.

Conclusions

The features of the home learning environments highlighted here indicate several opportunities for intervention development to improve ECD. These include encouraging caregivers to communicate with children using full sentences and enhancing the use of everyday objects as toys. There is also great potential for leveraging song and music to encourage responsive caregiver-child interactions within the home setting.
Working conditions and health status of 6,317 front line public health workers across five provinces in China during the COVID-19 epidemic: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Jinghua , Xu Jingdong , Zhou Huan , You Hua , Wang Xiaohui , Li Yan , Liang Yuan , Li Shan , Ma Lina , Zeng Jing , Cai Huanle , Xie Jinzhao , Pan Chenghao , Hao Chun , Gilmour Stuart , Lau Joseph Tak-fai , Hao Yuantao , Xu Dong Roman , Gu Jing
Published: January 2021

Background

Public health workers at the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC) and primary health care institutes (PHIs) were among the main workers who implemented prevention, control, and containment measures. However, their efforts and health status have not been well documented. We aimed to investigate the working conditions and health status of front line public health workers in China during the COVID-19 epidemic.

Methods

Between 18 February and 1 March 2020, we conducted an online cross-sectional survey of 2,313 CDC workers and 4,004 PHI workers in five provinces across China experiencing different scales of COVID-19 epidemic. We surveyed all participants about their work conditions, roles, burdens, perceptions, mental health, and self-rated health using a self-constructed questionnaire and standardised measurements (i.e., Patient Health Questionnaire and General Anxiety Disorder scale). To examine the independent associations between working conditions and health outcomes, we used multivariate regression models controlling for potential confounders.

Results

The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and poor self-rated health was 21.3, 19.0, and 9.8%, respectively, among public health workers (27.1, 20.6, and 15.0% among CDC workers and 17.5, 17.9, and 6.8% among PHI workers). The majority (71.6%) made immense efforts in both field and non-field work. Nearly 20.0% have worked all night for more than 3 days, and 45.3% had worked throughout the Chinese New Year holiday. Three risk factors and two protective factors were found to be independently associated with all three health outcomes in our final multivariate models: working all night for >3 days (multivariate odds ratio [ORm]=1.67~1.75, p<0.001), concerns about infection at work (ORm=1.46~1.89, p<0.001), perceived troubles at work (ORm=1.10~1.28, p<0.001), initiating COVID-19 prevention work after January 23 (ORm=0.78~0.82, p=0.002~0.008), and ability to persist for > 1 month at the current work intensity (ORm=0.44~0.55, p<0.001).

Conclusions

Chinese public health workers made immense efforts and personal sacrifices to control the COVID-19 epidemic and faced the risk of mental health problems. Efforts are needed to improve the working conditions and health status of public health workers and thus maintain their morale and effectiveness during the fight against COVID-19.
Fracture-related outcome study for operatively treated tibia shaft fractures (F.R.O.S.T.): registry rationale and design
Authors:   on behalf of the F.R.O.S.T. Study Group, Metsemakers Willem-Jan , Kortram Kirsten , Ferreira Nando , Morgenstern Mario , Joeris Alexander , Pape Hans-Christoph , Kammerlander Christian , Konda Sanjit , Oh Jong-Keon , Giannoudis Peter V. , Egol Kenneth A. , Obremskey William T. , Verhofstad Michael H. J. , Raschke Michael
Published: January 2021

Background

Tibial shaft fractures (TSFs) are among the most common long bone injuries often resulting from high-energy trauma. To date, musculoskeletal complications such as fracture-related infection (FRI) and compromised fracture healing following fracture fixation of these injuries are still prevalent. The relatively high complication rates prove that, despite advances in modern fracture care, the management of TSFs remains a challenge even in the hands of experienced surgeons. Therefore, the Fracture-Related Outcome Study for operatively treated Tibia shaft fractures (F.R.O.S.T.) aims at creating a registry that enables data mining to gather detailed information to support future clinical decision-making regarding the management of TSF’s.

Methods

This prospective, international, multicenter, observational registry for TSFs was recently developed. Recruitment started in 2019 and is planned to take 36 months, seeking to enroll a minimum of 1000 patients. The study protocol does not influence the clinical decision-making procedure, implant choice, or surgical/imaging techniques; these are being performed as per local hospital standard of care. Data collected in this registry include injury specifics, treatment details, clinical outcomes (e.g., FRI), patient-reported outcomes, and procedure- or implant-related adverse events. The minimum follow up is 12 months.

Discussion

Although over the past decades, multiple high-quality studies have addressed individual research questions related to the outcome of TSFs, knowledge gaps remain. The scarcity of data calls for an international high-quality, population-based registry. Creating such a database could optimize strategies intended to prevent severe musculoskeletal complications. The main purpose of the F.R.O.S.T registry is to evaluate the association between different treatment strategies and patient outcomes. It will address not only operative techniques and implant materials but also perioperative preventive measures. For the first time, data concerning systemic perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis, the influence of local antimicrobials, and timing of soft-tissue coverage will be collected at an international level and correlated with standardized outcome measures in a large prospective, multicenter, observational registry for global accessibility.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT03598530.
A novel GNAS mutation in pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1a in a Chinese man presented with recurrent seizure: a case report
Authors: Lu Difei , Dong Aimei , Zhang Junqing , Guo Xiaohui
Published: January 2021

Background

Pseudohypoparathyroidism is a rare genetic disease characterized by hypocalcaemia and hyperphosphataemia due to the defect to the guanine nucleotide-binding protein alpha subunit (GNAS) gene. Patients with pseudoparathyroidism type 1a and 1c could manifest Albright’s hereditary osteodystrophy and multiple hormone resistance including gonadotropin and thyroid stimulating hormone.

Case presentation

Here we report a Chinese man who presented with fatigue, recurrent seizure and Albright’s hereditary osteodystrophy. His genetic study revealed a heterozygote mutation in theGNASgene [NM_000516.4(GNAS): c2787_2788del (p.Val930AspfsTer12)]. After calcium and calcitriol supplement, his seizures achieved partially remission.

Conclusions

We report a case of PHP1a or 1c with a novel frameshift mutation inGNASgene in a patient presenting with AHO, as well as TSH and partial gonadotropin resistance. This mutation in this case has not been reported in literature and adds to the spectrum of genetic mutations related to PHP.
Development and evaluation of recombinant GRA8 protein for the serodiagnosis of Toxoplasma gondii infection in goats
Authors: Jirapattharasate Charoonluk , Udonsom Ruenruetai , Prachasuphap Apichai , Jongpitisub Kodcharad , Dhepakson Panadda
Published: January 2021

Background

The development of sensitive and specific methods for detectingToxoplasma gondiiinfection is critical for preventing and controlling toxoplasmosis in humans and other animals. Recently, various recombinant proteins have been used in serological tests for diagnosing toxoplasmosis. The production of these antigens is associated with live tachyzoites obtained from cell cultures or laboratory animals for genomic extraction to amplify target genes. Synthetic genes have gained a key role in recombinant protein production. For the first time, we demonstrated the production of the recombinant protein of theT. gondiidense granular antigen 8 (TgGRA8) gene based on commercial gene synthesis. Recombinant TgGRA8 plasmids were successfully expressed in anEscherichia colisystem. The recombinant protein was affinity-purified and characterized via sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and Western blotting. Furthermore, the diagnostic potential of the recombinant protein was assessed using 306 field serum samples from goats via indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA) and the latex agglutination test (LAT).

Results

Western blotting using known positive serum samples from goats identified a single antigen at the expected molecular weight of TgGRA8 (27 kDa). iELISA illustrated that 15.40% of goat samples were positive forT. gondii-specific IgG antibodies. In addition, TgGRA8 provided high sensitivity and specificity, with significant concordance (91.83) and kappa values (0.69) compared with the results obtained using LAT.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the production of a recombinant protein from a synthetic TgGRA8 gene and the ability to detectT. gondiiinfection in field samples. The sensitivity and specificity of TgGRA8 demonstrated that this protein could be a good serological marker for detecting specific IgG in goat sera.
Quantitative proteomic analysis to reveal expression differences for butanol production from glycerol and glucose by Clostridium sp. strain CT7
Authors: Jiang Yujia , Wu Ruofan , Lu Jiasheng , Dong Weiliang , Zhou Jie , Zhang Wenming , Xin Fengxue , Jiang Min
Published: January 2021

Clostridium sp. strain CT7 is a new emerging microbial cell factory with high butanol production ratio owing to its non-traditional butanol fermentation mode with uncoupled acetone and 1,3-propanediol formation. Significant changes of metabolic products profile were shown in glycerol- and glucose-fed strain CT7, especially higher butanol and lower volatile fatty acids (VFAs) production occurred from glycerol-fed one. However, the mechanism of this interesting phenomenon was still unclear. To better elaborate the bacterial response towards glycerol and glucose, the quantitative proteomic analysis through iTRAQ strategy was performed to reveal the regulated proteomic expression levels under different substrates. Proteomics data showed that proteomic expression levels related with carbon metabolism and solvent generation under glycerol media were highly increased. In addition, the up-regulation of hydrogenases, ferredoxins and electron-transferring proteins may attribute to the internal redox balance, while the earlier triggered sporulation response in glycerol-fed media may be associated with the higher butanol production. This study will pave the way for metabolic engineering of other industrial microorganisms to obtain efficient butanol production from glycerol.
LncRNA CBR3-AS1 potentiates Wnt/β-catenin signaling to regulate lung adenocarcinoma cells proliferation, migration and invasion
Authors: Hou Min , Wu Nannan , Yao Lili
Published: January 2021

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are pervasively transcribed in genome and emerging as a new player in tumorigenesis due to their functions in transcriptional, posttranscriptional and epigenetic mechanisms of gene regulation. As the most frequent malignancy and the foremost source of cancer mortality, lung cancer is a heterogeneous disorder. The most common type of lung cancer is Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), occupying 85% of the total cases, and the main subtypes of NSCLC include lung adenocarcinoma (LAD), large cell carcinoma (LCC), and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). Recently, numerous lncRNAs have been reported to be strongly linked to NSCLC. In the present study, we found that a new lncRNA CBR3-AS1 is highly expressed in lung cancer. In addition, we also examined the expression of lncRNA CBR3-AS1 in 60 of LADs, 40 of LCCs and 40 of LSCCs patient samples, finding that CBR3-AS1 was specificity highly expressed in LAD cancer tissues. Mechanically, we discovered that CBR3-AS1 could regulate the proliferation, migration and invasion of LAD cells through targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

Methods

Real-time PCR, RNA-pulldown, RIP, western blotting, lentivirus transfection, luciferase reporter assays, cell proliferation assays, colony formation assays, wound healing scratch assays and transwell assays were employed to examine the relationship between lncRNA CBR3-AS1 and its regulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in LAD cells.

Results

LncRNA CBR3-AS1 is highly-expressed in LAD and cell lines. LncRNA CBR3-AS1 shows physical association with β-catenin. CBR3-AS1 could facilitate Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation thought promoting nuclear localization of β-catenin. CBR3-AS1 promotes LAD cell proliferation, migration and invasion by targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

Conclusion

It can be found that a new functional lncRNA CBR3-AS1 could promote nuclear localization of β-catenin so as to facilitate Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation and regulate the proliferation, migration and invasion of LAD cells.
New assessment of Anopheles vector species identification using MALDI-TOF MS
Authors: Nabet Cécile , Kone Abdoulaye K. , Dia Abdoulaye K. , Sylla Moussa , Gautier Magali , Yattara Mohammed , Thera Mahamadou A. , Faye Ousmane , Braack Leo , Manguin Sylvie , Beavogui Abdoul H. , Doumbo Ogobara , Gay Frédérick , Piarroux Renaud
Published: January 2021

Background

Anopheles species identification is essential for an effective malaria vector control programme. Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) has been developed to identify adult Anopheles species, using the legs or the cephalothorax. The protein repertoire from arthropods can vary according to compartment, but there is no general consensus regarding the anatomic part to be used.

Methods

To determine the body part of the Anopheles mosquitoes best suited for the identification of field specimens, a mass spectral library was generated with head, thorax with wings and legs of Anopheles gambiae, Anopheles arabiensis and Anopheles funestus obtained from reference centres. The MSL was evaluated using two independent panels of 52 and 40 An. gambiae field-collected in Mali and Guinea, respectively. Geographic variability was also tested using the panel from Mali and several databases containing added specimens from Mali and Senegal.

Results

Using the head and a database without specimens from the same field collection, the proportion of interpretable and correct identifications was significantly higher than using the other body parts at a threshold value of 1.7 (p < 0.0001). The thorax of engorged specimens was negatively impacted by the blood meal after frozen storage. The addition of specimens from Mali into the database significantly improved the results of Mali panel (p < 0.0001), which became comparable between head and legs. With higher identification scores, the using of the head will allow to decrease the number of technical replicates of protein extract per specimen, which represents a significant improvement for routine use of MALDI-TOF MS.

Conclusions

The using of the head of Anopheles may improve the performance of MALDI-TOF MS. Region-specific mass spectrum databases will have to be produced. Further research is needed to improve the standardization in order to share online spectral databases.
Are associations between home environment and preschool children’s sedentary time influenced by parental educational level in a cross-sectional survey?
Authors: Lehto Elviira , Lehto Reetta , Ray Carola , Pajulahti Riikka , Sajaniemi Nina , Erkkola Maijaliisa , Roos Eva
Published: January 2021

Background

Childhood obesity is a major public health concern, especially in low socioeconomic groups. Sedentary time (SED) is an important predictor of obesity. To be able to diminish SED it is important to find modifiable predictors of sedentary behavior. The home environment associated with children’s SED may vary by parental socioeconomic status. This study aims to clarify the association between parental educational level (PEL) and the home environment of 3–6-year-old children, and to examine how home environment associates with children’s SED, and whether PEL modifies these associations.

Methods

A cross-sectional Increased health and wellbeing in preschools (DAGIS) study was conducted in 2015–2016 in Finland. The parents (n = 809) filled in questionnaires assessing PEL, and the home physical and social environment related to children’s SED. Children’s SED was measured with accelerometers, which the children (n = 745) wore for 1 week.

Results

High PEL was associated with a home environment restraining sedentary behaviour compared with low PEL. Stricter descriptive norms about screen time, considering it important to limit the child’s screen time, and satisfaction about the child’s screen time associated with children’s lower SED. The association with parental psychological control and SED was influenced by PEL. In the PEL stratified analyses, however, the associations between psychological control and SED did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

Future interventions aiming to decrease SED should pay attention to relevant factors in children’s sedentary behaviour home environment. It is important to acknowledge the possible PEL differences in these factors.
Targeted micelles with chemotherapeutics and gene drugs to inhibit the G1/S and G2/M mitotic cycle of prostate cancer
Authors: Zhang Yiran , Wang Yanming , Meng Li , Huang Qingqing , Zhu Yueqi , Cui Wenguo , Cheng Yingsheng , Liu Ranlu
Published: January 2021

Background

Chemotherapy and gene therapy are used in clinical practice for the treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer. However, the poor efficiency of drug delivery and serious systemic side effects remain an obstacle to wider application of these drugs. Herein, we report newly designed PEO-PCL micelles that were self-assembled and modified by spermine ligand, DCL ligand and TAT peptide to carry docetaxel and anti-nucleostemin siRNA.

Results

The particle size of the micelles was 42 nm, the zeta potential increased from − 12.8 to 15 mV after grafting with spermine, and the optimal N/P ratio was 25:1. Cellular MTT experiments suggested that introduction of the DCL ligand resulted in high toxicity toward PSMA-positive cells and that the TAT peptide enhanced the effect. The expression of nucleostemin was significantly suppressed in vitro and in vivo, and the tumour-inhibition experiment showed that the dual-drug delivery system suppressed CRPC tumour proliferation.

Conclusions

This targeted drug delivery system inhibited the G1/S and G2/M mitotic cycle via synergistic interaction of chemotherapeutics and gene drugs.