bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of dominance in gene expression pattern associated with phenotypic robustness
Authors: Okubo Kenji , Kaneko Kunihiko
Published: June 2021

Background

Mendelian inheritance is a fundamental law of genetics. When we consider two genomes in a diploid cell, a heterozygote’s phenotype is dominated by a particular homozygote according to the law of dominance. Classical Mendelian dominance is concerned with which proteins are dominant, and is usually based on simple genotype–phenotype relationship in which one gene regulates one phenotype. However, in reality, some interactions between genes can exist, resulting in deviations from Mendelian dominance. Whether and how Mendelian dominance is generalized to the phenotypes of gene expression determined by gene regulatory networks (GRNs) remains elusive.

Results

Here, by using the numerical evolution of diploid GRNs, we discuss whether the dominance of phenotype evolves beyond the classical Mendelian case of one-to-one genotype–phenotype relationship. We examine whether complex genotype–phenotype relationship can achieve Mendelian dominance at the expression level by a pair of haplotypes through the evolution of the GRN with interacting genes. This dominance is defined via a pair of haplotypes that differ from each other but have a common phenotype given by the expression of target genes. We numerically evolve the GRN model for a diploid case, in which two GRN matrices are added to give gene expression dynamics and simulate evolution with meiosis and recombination. Our results reveal that group Mendelian dominance evolves even under complex genotype–phenotype relationship. Calculating the degree of dominance shows that it increases through the evolution, correlating closely with the decrease in phenotypic fluctuations and the increase in robustness to initial noise. We also demonstrate that the dominance of gene expression patterns evolves concurrently. This evolution of group Mendelian dominance and pattern dominance is associated with phenotypic robustness against meiosis-induced genome mixing, whereas sexual recombination arising from the mixing of genomes from the parents further enhances dominance and robustness. Due to this dominance, the robustness to genetic differences increases, while optimal fitness is sustained to a significant difference between the two genomes.

Conclusion

Group Mendelian dominance and gene-expression pattern dominance are achieved associated with the increase in phenotypic robustness to noise.
Consequences of mutation accumulation for growth performance are more likely to be resource-dependent at higher temperatures
Authors: Chu Xiao-Lin , Zhang Quan-Guo
Published: June 2021

Background

Mutation accumulation (MA) has profound ecological and evolutionary consequences. One example is that accumulation of conditionally neutral mutations leads to fitness trade-offs among heterogenous habitats which cause population divergence. Here we suggest that temperature, which controls the rates of all biochemical and biophysical processes, should play a crucial role for determining mutational effects. Particularly, warmer temperatures may mitigate the effects of some, not all, deleterious mutations and cause stronger environmental dependence in MA effects.

Results

We experimentally tested the above hypothesis by measuring the growth performance of tenEscherichia coligenotypes on six carbon resources across ten temperatures, where the ten genotypes were derived from a single ancestral strain and accumulated spontaneous mutations. We analyzed resource dependence of MA consequences for growth yields. The MA genotypes typically showed reduced growth yields relative to the ancestral type; and the magnitude of reduction was smaller at intermediate temperatures. Stronger resource dependence in MA consequences for growth performance was observed at higher temperatures. Specifically, the MA genotypes were more likely to show impaired growth performance on all the six carbon resources when grown at lower temperatures; but suffered growth performance loss only on some, not all the six, carbon substrates at higher temperatures.

Conclusions

Higher temperatures increase the chance that MA causes conditionally neutral fitness effects while MA is more likely to cause fitness loss regardless of available resources at lower temperatures. This finding has implications for understanding how geographic patterns in population divergence may emerge, and how conservation practices, particularly protection of diverse microhabitats, may mitigate the impacts of global warming.
Patterns of yeast diversity distribution and its drivers in rhizosphere soil of Hami melon orchards in different regions of Xinjiang
Authors: Zhu ShanShan , Lei YongHui , Wang Chong , Wei YuMei , Wang ChunCheng , Sun YanFei
Published: June 2021

Background

The unique climatic conditions of the Xinjiang region nurture rich melon and fruit resources, the melon and fruit sugar sources provide sufficient nutrients for the survival of yeast, and the diverse habitats accompanied by extreme climatic conditions promote the production of yeast diversity and strain resources. However, the relationship between yeast species and their relationship with environmental factors in the soil of Xinjiang specialty cash crop Hami melon is not clear. Here, we aimed to characterize the diversity, community structure, and relationship between yeast species and environmental factors in Hami melon orchards soils in different regions of Xinjiang, China.

Results

Based on Illumina MiSeq high-throughput sequencing analysis of the D1 domain of the LSU rRNA genes, the community richness of yeast in the soil of Northern Xinjiang was higher than in the Southern and Eastern Xinjiang, but the community diversity was significantly lower in the Northern Xinjiang than in the Southern and Eastern Xinjiang. A total of 86 OTUs were classified into 59 genera and 86 species. Most OTUs (90.4%) belonged to the Basidiomycota; only a few (9.6%) belonged to Ascomycota. The most dominant species in the Southern, Eastern and Northern Xinjiang were Filobasidium magnum (17.90%), Solicoccozyma aeria (35.83%) and Filobasidium magnum (75.36%), respectively. Principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) showed that the yeast community composition in the soils of the three regions were obviously different, with the Southern and Eastern Xinjiang having more similar yeast community. Redundancy analysis (RDA) showed that soil factors such as conductivity (CO), total phosphorus (TP) and Total potassium (TK) and climate factors such as average annual precipitation (PRCP), relative humidity (RH) and net solar radiation intensity (SWGNT) were significantly correlated with yeast communities (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

There are abundant yeast resources in the rhizosphere soil of Hami melon orchard in Xinjiang, and there are obvious differences in the diversity and community structure of yeast in the three regions of Xinjiang. Differences in climatic factors related to precipitation, humidity and solar radiation intensity and soil factors related to conductivity, total phosphorus and total potassium are key factors driving yeast diversity and community structure.
Low nitrogen availability inhibits the phosphorus starvation response in maize (Zea mays ssp. mays L.)
Authors: Torres-Rodríguez J. Vladimir , Salazar-Vidal M. Nancy , Chávez Montes Ricardo A. , Massange-Sánchez Julio A. , Gillmor C. Stewart , Sawers Ruairidh J. H.
Published: June 2021

Background

Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are macronutrients essential for crop growth and productivity. In cultivated fields, N and P levels are rarely sufficient, contributing to the gap between realized and potential production. Fertilizer application increases nutrient availability, but is not available to all farmers, nor are current rates of application sustainable or environmentally desirable. Transcriptomic studies of cereal crops have revealed dramatic responses to either low N or low P single stress treatments. In the field, however, levels of both N and P may be suboptimal. The interaction between N and P starvation responses remains to be fully characterized.

Results

We characterized growth and root and leaf transcriptomes of young maize plants under nutrient replete, low N, low P or combined low NP conditions. We identified 1555 genes to respond to our nutrient treatments, in one or both tissues. A large group of genes, including many classical P starvation response genes, were regulated antagonistically between low N and P conditions. An additional experiment over a range of N availability indicated that a mild reduction in N levels was sufficient to repress the low P induction of P starvation genes. Although expression of P transporter genes was repressed under low N or low NP, we confirmed earlier reports of P hyper accumulation under N limitation.

Conclusions

Transcriptional responses to low N or P were distinct, with few genes responding in a similar way to the two single stress treatments. In combined NP stress, the low N response dominated, and the P starvation response was largely suppressed. A mild reduction in N availability was sufficient to repress the induction of P starvation associated genes. We conclude that activation of the transcriptional response to P starvation in maize is contingent on N availability.
Prognostic value of D-dimer for adverse outcomes in patients with infective endocarditis: an observational study
Authors: Lin Ying-Wen , Jiang Mei , Wei Xue-biao , Huang Jie-leng , Su Zedazhong , Wang Yu , Chen Ji-yan , Yu Dan-qing
Published: June 2021

Background

Increased D-dimer levels have been shown to correlate with adverse outcomes in various clinical conditions. However, few studies with a large sample size have been performed thus far to evaluate the prognostic value of D-dimer in patients with infective endocarditis (IE).

Methods

613 patients with IE were included in the study and categorized into two groups according to the cut-off of D-dimer determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis for in-hospital death: > 3.5 mg/L (n = 89) and ≤ 3.5 mg/L (n = 524). Multivariable regression analysis was used to determine the association of D-dimer with in-hospital adverse events and six-month death.

Results

In-hospital death (22.5% vs. 7.3%), embolism (33.7% vs 18.2%), and stroke (29.2% vs 15.8%) were significantly higher in patients with D-dimer > 3.5 mg/L than in those with D-dimer ≤ 3.5 mg/L. Multivariable analysis showed that D-dimer was an independent risk factor for in-hospital adverse events (odds ratio = 1.11, 95% CI 1.03–1.19, P = 0.005). In addition, the Kaplan–Meier curve showed that the cumulative 6-month mortality was significantly higher in patients with D-dimer > 3.5 mg/L than in those with D-dimer ≤ 3.5 mg/L (log-rank test = 39.19, P < 0.0001). Multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that D-dimer remained a significant predictor for six-month death (HR 1.11, 95% CI 1.05–1.18, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

D-dimer is a reliable prognostic biomarker that independently associated with in-hospital adverse events and six-month mortality in patients with IE.
Open science saves lives: lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Besançon Lonni , Peiffer-Smadja Nathan , Segalas Corentin , Jiang Haiting , Masuzzo Paola , Smout Cooper , Billy Eric , Deforet Maxime , Leyrat Clémence
Published: June 2021

In the last decade Open Science principles have been successfully advocated for and are being slowly adopted in different research communities. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic many publishers and researchers have sped up their adoption of Open Science practices, sometimes embracing them fully and sometimes partially or in a sub-optimal manner. In this article, we express concerns about the violation of some of the Open Science principles and its potential impact on the quality of research output. We provide evidence of the misuses of these principles at different stages of the scientific process. We call for a wider adoption of Open Science practices in the hope that this work will encourage a broader endorsement of Open Science principles and serve as a reminder that science should always be a rigorous process, reliable and transparent, especially in the context of a pandemic where research findings are being translated into practice even more rapidly. We provide all data and scripts at https://osf.io/renxy/.
Clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of signet ring cell carcinoma of the gallbladder
Authors: Wang Shijie , Li Jiayi , You Jun , Zhou Yanming
Published: June 2021

Background

Signet ring cell carcinoma (SRC) is a rare histological subtype of gallbladder adenocarcinoma. The current study evaluates the clinicopathologic features and prognosis of SRC.

Methods

Patients with adenocarcinoma of the gallbladder were identified in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database from 1973 to 2016. Overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) of patients who had SRC were compared with those of patients who had non-SRC using Cox regression and propensity score methods.

Results

Of 22,781 gallbladder adenocarcinomas retrieved, 377 (1.7%) were SRC and the other 22,404 were non-SRC. SRC was more significantly associated with older age, female gender, poor differentiation, advanced tumor stage, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, and advanced AJCC stage. The 5-year OS and CSS in the SRC group were 7.2 and 6.5%, respectively, both of which were significantly worse than the 13.2 and 13.3% seen in the SRC group (P = 0.002 and P = 0.012, respectively). This survival disadvantage persisted in multivariable analyses [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.256, P = 0.021 and HR = 1.211, P = 0.036] and after propensity score matching (OS: HR = 1.341, P = 0.012 and CSS: HR = 1.625, P = 0.005). Surgery in combination with chemotherapy improved OS of gallbladder SRC patients compared with surgery alone (HR = 0.726, P = 0.036) or chemotherapy alone (HR = 0.433, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Patients with SRC of the gallbladder have distinct clinicopathological features with poor prognosis. Surgery in combination with chemotherapy can improve survival.
Multiple thrombosis associated with Cytomegalovirus enterocolitis in an immunocompetent patient: a case report
Authors: Kamatani Kaisei , Kenzaka Tsuneaki , Sugimoto Ryu , Kumabe Ayako , Kitao Akihito , Akita Hozuka
Published: June 2021

Background

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is reported to have thrombogenic characteristics that activate factor X in vitro and stimulate the production of factor VIII and von Willebrand factor (vWF). Thrombosis associated with CMV infection is prevalent among immunocompromised patients and predominantly presents as a solitary large thrombus in the deep vein, pulmonary artery, splanchnic arteriovenous ducts, or other similar sites. Multiple thrombi, however, are rarely observed in such cases. Here, we report about an immunocompetent man with multiple microthrombi associated with CMV infection.

Case presentation

A 72-year-old Japanese man who complained of abdominal pain was hospitalized with multiple colonic stenosis. He was later diagnosed with CMV enterocolitis and treated with ganciclover from Day 27 post-admission. During hospitalization, the patient developed thrombi in his fingers. He was initially treated with anticoagulant therapy (rivaroxaban); however, the therapy was discontinued owing to a prolonged activated thromboplastin time and an elevated international normalized ratio of prothrombin time. Instead, vitamin K and fresh-frozen plasma were administered. Nevertheless, his coagulation profile remained abnormal. Eventually, he developed colonic perforation and had to undergo emergency surgery. An intraoperative specimen showed several microthrombi in the middle and small arteriovenous ducts of his small and large intestines. The patient’s coagulopathy improved preoperatively, and his overall condition improved postoperatively. Since the activation of ADAMTS13 was reduced remarkably, the thrombotic tendency was determined to be a thrombotic microangiopathy-like condition owing to increased vWF. We could not attribute the coagulopathy to any other cause except CMV infection; therefore, we concluded that this was a case of multiple thrombosis associated with CMV.

Conclusions

We present an extremely rare case of a patient with multiple thrombotic microangiopathy-like microthrombosis caused by CMV infection. Our findings suggest that CMV infection may be considered as a differential diagnosis for immunocompetent individuals who present with thrombosis of unspecified cause.
Association between premature ovarian insufficiency and gut microbiota
Authors: Wu Jiaman , Zhuo Yuanyuan , Liu Yulei , Chen Yan , Ning Yan , Yao Jilong
Published: June 2021

Background

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is characterized by impairment of ovarian function on a continuum before the age of 40 years. POI is affected by multiple factors. Considering new insights from recent gut microbiome studies, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between gut microbial community structure and POI.

Methods

Subjects were recruited at the Shenzhen Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital. Fecal microbial community profiles of healthy women (n = 18), women with POI (n = 35) were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing based on Illumina NovaSeq platform.

Results

Compared to the controls, the serum levels of FSH, LH, T and FSH/LH ratio significantly increased in women with POI, whereas E2 and AMH decreased significantly. Higher weighted UniFrac value was observed in POI women compared with healthy women. Phylum Firmicutes, genera Bulleidia and Faecalibacterium were more abundant in healthy women, while phylum Bacteroidetes, genera Butyricimonas, Dorea, Lachnobacterium and Sutterella enriched significantly in women with POI. Moreover, these alterations of the gut microbiome in women with POI were closely related to FSH, LH, E2, AMH level and FSH/LH ratio.

Conclusions

Women with POI had altered microbial profiles in their gut microbiome, which were associated with serum hormones levels. These results will shed a new light on the pathogenesis and treatment for POI.
Differential chromatin accessibility landscape of gain-of-function mutant p53 tumours
Authors: Dhaka Bhavya , Sabarinathan Radhakrishnan
Published: June 2021

Background

Mutations in TP53 not only affect its tumour suppressor activity but also exerts oncogenic gain-of-function activity. While the genome-wide mutant p53 binding sites have been identified in cancer cell lines, the chromatin accessibility landscape driven by mutant p53 in primary tumours is unknown. Here, we leveraged the chromatin accessibility data of primary tumours from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to identify differentially accessible regions in mutant p53 tumours compared to wild-type p53 tumours, especially in breast and colon cancers.

Results

We identified 1587 lost and 984 gained accessible chromatin regions in breast, and 1143 lost and 640 gained regions in colon cancers. However, only less than half of those regions in both cancer types contain sequence motifs for wild-type or mutant p53 binding. Whereas, the remaining showed enrichment for master transcriptional regulators, such as FOX-Family TFs and NF-kB in lost and SMAD and KLF TFs in gained regions of breast. In colon, ATF3 and FOS/JUN TFs were enriched in lost, and CDX family TFs and HNF4A in gained regions. By integrating the gene expression data, we identified known and novel target genes regulated by the mutant p53.

Conclusion

This study reveals the direct and indirect mechanisms by which gain-of-function mutant p53 targets the chromatin and subsequent gene expression patterns in a tumour-type specific manner. This furthers our understanding of the impact of mutant p53 in cancer development.
Significance of liver resection for intermediate stage hepatocellular carcinoma according to subclassification
Authors: Yamamoto Masateru , Kobayashi Tsuyoshi , Hashimoto Masakazu , Kuroda Shintaro , Kawaoka Tomokazu , Aikata Hiroshi , Chayama Kazuaki , Ohdan Hideki
Published: June 2021

Background

Patients diagnosed with Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) intermediate stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) encompass a broad clinical population. Kinki criteria subclassifications have been proposed to better predict prognoses and determine appropriate treatment strategies for these patients. This study validated the prognostic significance within the Kinki criteria substages and analyzed the role of liver resection in patients with intermediate stage HCC.

Methods

Patients with intermediate stage HCC (n = 378) were retrospectively subclassified according to the Kinki criteria (B1, n = 123; B2, n = 225; and B3, n = 30). We analyzed the overall survival (OS) and treatment methods.

Results

The OS was significantly different between adjacent substages. Patients in substage B1 who underwent liver resection had a significantly better prognosis than those who did not, even after propensity score matching (PSM). Patients in substage B2 who underwent liver resection had a significantly better prognosis than those who did not; however, there was no difference after PSM. There was no difference in prognosis based on treatments among patients in substage B3.

Conclusions

The Kinki criteria clearly stratify patients with intermediate stage HCC by prognosis. For substage B1 HCC patients, liver resection provides a better prognosis than other treatment modalities. In patients with substage B2 and B3, an alternative approach is required.
Long-term results of topical 0.02% tacrolimus ointment for refractory ocular surface inflammation in pediatric patients
Authors: Koh Kyungmin , Jun Ikhyun , Kim Tae-im , Kim Eung Kweon , Seo Kyoung Yul
Published: June 2021

Background

No studies have been reported on the efficacy and safety of long-term (≥12 months) use of topical tacrolimus for refractory ocular surface inflammation in pediatric patients.

Methods

Medical records of pediatric patients who were prescribed topical 0.02% tacrolimus ointment for refractory ocular surface inflammation between January of 2010 and March of 2018 were reviewed retrospectively. Changes in ocular surface signs during slit-lamp examination, clinical symptoms and concurrent steroid use were graded with a scoring system. The presence of side effects was also assessed. The changes in disease severity and patient symptoms were compared between baseline and after the treatment.

Results

Among 72 patients (55% males, mean age 10.8 ± 3.9 years, range 3 to 17 years), 25 patients (48% males, mean age 11.4 ± 3.9 years) fully recovered, resulting in discontinuance of the ointment treatment before 12 months. Six patients experienced intolerable burning sensation, which required treatment cessation. Cessation days of those who quit were 1,5,14,20,26, and 35 days. Seven patients were lost during follow-up. Thirty-four patients (56% males, mean age 11.2 ± 4.2 years, range 3 to 17 years) were treated with tacrolimus ointment for over 12 months (average 23.1 ± 19.1 months, range 12 to 98 months). During the follow-up period, all patients showed improved clinical signs and symptoms, and no adverse reaction was noted.

Conclusions

Long-term maintenance of topical tacrolimus 0.02% ointment is safe and effective in improving refractory ocular surface inflammation in pediatric patients.
Nonspecific orbital inflammation and thyroid eye disease, a rare comorbidity: report of two cases and review of literature
Authors: Eshraghi Bahram , Dehghan Amin , Javadi Niloofar , Fazel Mohammadreza
Published: June 2021

Background

To present the very rare comorbidity of developing non-specific orbital inflammation (NSOI) in two patients with histories of definite thyroid eye disease (TED).

Case presentation

Both patients complained of new-onset progressive proptosis although their thyroid disease was controlled and computed tomography scan revealed an intraorbital inflammatory mass. The pathological assessment indicated that both patients had developed fibrosing NSOI. Therefore, intravenous corticosteroids were administered. The mass regressed and the amount of proptosis was decreased in both patients.

Conclusions

We reviewed all related cases in the literature and extracted their clinical and radiological characteristics for this paper. Ophthalmologists should consider TED and NSOI in patients with a new-onset complaint of proptosis. Despite rare comorbidity of TED and NSOI, it should be considered especially in patients with refractory proptosis, and lead to its further evaluation and prompt management.
A pilot study to evaluate the role of circulation CD4+ CCR6+ CRTh2+ cell in predicting risk of asthma in wheezing children
Authors: Li Jingyang , Wu Jinhong , Liu Haipei , Hua Li , Liu Quanhua , Fang Dingzhu , Chen Yi , Ji Ruoxu , Zhang Jianhua , Zhong Wenwei
Published: June 2021

Background

Wheezing is common in younger children and often related to viral infection. It is lack of reliable indicators for asthma prediction.

Objective

To evaluate the relationship between circulation CD4+CCR6+CRTh2+ memory Th2 cells and asthma diagnosis in wheezing children.

Methods

A prospective study was performed in children under 5 years old presented with wheezing or at last one episode of documented wheezing history. After inclusion, the level of serum allergen-specific serum IgE (sIgE) and circulating CD4+CCR6+CRTh2+cells were detected. The patients’ personal and family histories of allergic disease were acquired by questionnaire. The children were followed up over 2 years. Diagnosis of asthma was assessed at the end follow-up. The risk factors in predicting asthma diagnosis were evaluated.

Results

A total of 43 children completed follow-up. Higher wheezing frequency were found in children with asthma diagnosis. The mean of circulating CD4+CCR6+CRTh2+cells in children diagnosed with or without asthma was 1.6 %±0.8 and 0.8 %±0.6 %, respectively, and was significantly higher in children diagnosed with asthma (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference between children with and without allergic diseases history or family allergic diseases in level of circulating CD4+CCR6+CRTh2+ cells. Logistic regression analysis indicated that circulating CD4+CCR6+CRTh2+ cells (EXP, 8.986; 95 % CI,1.886–42.816) and wheezing frequency(EXP, 0.127; 95 % CI, 0.023–0.703)were high risk factors for asthma.

Conclusions

Our exploratory study shown that circulating CD4+CCR6+CRTh2+ memory Th2 cells increased in asthma diagnosed children and it was a high-risk factor for asthma. Detection of this type of cells could be helpful in predicting the risk of asthma in wheezing children.
Cervical cancer screening prevalence and its correlates in Cameroon: secondary data analysis of the 2018 demographic and health surveys
Authors: Okyere Joshua , Duodu Precious Adade , Aduse-Poku Livingstone , Agbadi Pascal , Nutor Jerry John
Published: June 2021

Background

Cervical cancer, although preventable, is the fourth most common cancer among women globally, and the second most common and deadliest gynaecological cancer in low-and-middle-income countries. Screening is key to the prevention and early detection of the disease for treatment. A few studies estimated the prevalence of cervical cancer screening and its correlates in Cameroon but relied on data that were limited to certain regions of the country. Therefore, this study sought to examine the prevalence and correlates of cervical cancer screening among Cameroonian women using current data that is nationally representative of reproductive-age women.

Methods

We used secondary data from the 2018 Cameroon Demographic and Health Survey. Summary statistics were used for the sample description. We employed the Firth logistic regression using the “firthlogit” command in STATA-14 to perform the bivariate analyses between the outcome variable and each of the explanatory variables. Given that all the explanatory variables were statistically significant correlates, they were all adjusted for in a multivariable analysis. All analyses were performed in STATA version 14.

Results

The proportion of Cameroonian women who have ever screened for cervical cancer continue to remain low at approximately 4%. In the adjusted model, women with the following sociodemographic characteristics have a higher likelihood of undergoing cervical cancer screening: ever undergone HIV screening (AOR = 4.446, 95% CI: 2.475, 7.986), being 24–34 years (AOR = 2.233, 95% CI: 1.606, 3.103) or 35–44 years (AOR = 4.008, 95% CI: 2.840, 5.657) or at least 45 years old (AOR = 5.895, 95% CI: 3.957, 8.784), having attained a post-secondary education (AOR = 1.849, 95% CI: 1.032, 3.315), currently (AOR = 1.551, 95% CI: 1.177, 2.043) or previously married (AOR = 1.572, 95% CI: 1.073, 2.302), dwelling in the richest household (AOR = 4.139, 95% CI: 1.769, 9.682), and residing in an urban area (AOR = 1.403, 95% CI: 1.004,1.960). Except for the North-West region, residing in some five regions, compared to Yaounde, was negatively associated with cervical cancer screening.

Conclusion

Cervical cancer screening programs and policies should target Cameroonian women who are younger, less educated, and those in poor households and rural areas.
How does social support affect public service motivation of healthcare workers in China: the mediating effect of job stress
Authors: Deng Jianwei , Liu Jiahao , Guo Yuangeng , Gao Yongchuang , Wu Zhennan , Yang Tianan
Published: June 2021

Background

This study aimed to examine relations between social support, job stress, and public service motivation (PSM), also assessed how social support and job stress affect PSM in China based on the job demands-resources (JD-R) theory.

Methods

The survey investigated a sample of 973 healthcare workers employed in public hospitals in Beijing, Xiamen, and Guangzhou in 2017 (including doctors, nurses, medical technicians, and administrators). Correlation analysis and Structural equation modeling (SEM) were used.

Results

Challenge stress and hindrance stress were directly negatively associated with PSM. Supervisor support was significantly positively associated with PSM, and the path from coworker support to PSM was significant. Supervisor support was significantly negatively associated with hindrance stress, and coworker support was significantly negatively associated with challenge stress. Hindrance stress and challenge stress significantly mediated the relations between supervisor support and PSM, and between coworker support and PSM respectively. PSM might be raised by increasing supervisor support and coworker support and by limiting hindrance stress and challenge stress.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that administrators of public hospitals should be mindful of the intense job stress of healthcare workers and undertake interventions targeting challenge stress and hindrance stress. Also, public hospital administrators should encourage and assist supervisors in their leadership functions. Besides, administrators of public hospitals should emphasize coworker support and good employee relationships.
Factors associated with headache and neck pain among telecommuters – a five days follow-up
Authors: Houle Mariève , Lessard Arianne , Marineau-Bélanger Émile , Lardon Arnaud , Marchand Andrée-Anne , Descarreaux Martin , Abboud Jacques
Published: June 2021

Background

The current sanitary crisis brought on by the COVID-19 recently forced a large proportion of workers to adopt telecommuting with limited time to plan transition. Given that several work-related risk factors are associated with headache and neck pain, it seems important to determine those associated with headache and neck pain in telecommuters.

The main objective of this study was to identify which telecommuting and individual associated factors are related with headache and neck pain occurrence in telecommuters over a five days follow-up. The second objective was to evaluate the impact of wearing a headset on headache and neck pain intensity in telecommuters.

Methods

One hundred and sixty-two participants in telecommuting situation were recruited. Baseline assessment included sociodemographic data, headache and neck pain-related disability (6-item Headache Impact Test (HIT-6) and Neck Bournemouth Questionnaire (NBQ)), headache and neck pain frequency and intensity as well as questions about the wearing of a headset (headset wearing, headset type and headset wearing hours). A prospective data collection of headache, neck pain and headset wearing was conducted using daily e-mail over a 5-day follow-up. A stepwise multivariate regression model was performed to determine associated factors of headache or neck pain occurrence during the follow-up. A t-test was conducted to assess the impact of headset wearing on headache and neck pain intensity during the follow-up.

Results

Regarding headache, the stepwise multivariate regression model showed that the HIT-6 score was associated with future headache occurrence in telecommuters (OR (95% CI) = 1.094 (1.042–1.148); R2 = 0.094; p <  0.001). For neck pain, the stepwise multivariate regression showed that the NBQ score was related to future neck pain occurrence in telecommuters (OR (95% CI) = 1.182 (1.102–1.269); R2 = 0.182; p <  0.001). T-test showed no difference between participants that wore a headset and participant that did not wore a headset on mean headache (p = 0.94) and neck pain (p = 0.56) intensity during the five days follow-up.

Conclusion

Although several work-related risk factors are associated with headache and neck pain in workers, telecommuting did not present the same risks. Working set-up did not have a significant impact on headache and neck pain as headache-related disability was the only associated factor of future headache episodes and neck-pain related disability was the only associated factor of future neck pain episodes. Also, wearing a headset had no impact on headache and neck pain in telecommuters.
The perceptions and priorities of professionals in health and social welfare and city planning for creating a healthy living environment: a concept mapping study
Authors: Mourits Kristine , van der Velden Koos , Molleman Gerard
Published: June 2021

Background

It is helpful for collaboration if professionals from the field of health and social welfare and the field of city planning are aware of each other’s concepts of what a healthy living environment entails and what its components are. This study examined perceptions about creating a healthy living environment of professionals from these two fields, as well as the differences between them.

Methods

We recruited 95 professionals from Nijmegen, the Netherlands who worked in the fields of health, social welfare and city planning in governmental and non-governmental capacities. We used the concept mapping method to collect and analyse their thoughts on healthy living environments. Participants first submitted statements on this subject in a brainstorming session, using an online mapping tool. Then they sorted these statements and rated them on priorities and opportunities within urban planning processes.

Results

During the brainstorm, 43 professionals generated 136 statements. After the elimination of duplicates, 92 statements were individually sorted by 32 professionals. Concept mapping software was used to create an overall map, in which the statements were sorted into ten clusters. Each of these clusters represented one of the main features of a healthy living environments. After 36 participants rated these statements, it emerged that professionals from both fields agreed on priorities and opportunities for the clusters ‘Spatial quality’ and ‘Conducive to exercise’. Professionals also agreed on which three clusters had the fewest priorities and possibilities (‘Promotes personal wellbeing’, ‘Encourages healthy choices’, ‘Conducive to social connections’).

Conclusion

We found that professionals in health and social welfare and city planning have similar views concerning the most and least important features of a healthy living environment in urban planning process. This could indicate that the differences between the two fields may be more nuanced and specific than previously thought. This knowledge offers perspectives for professionals to strengthen their collaboration and to come to a joint result in urban planning projects.
Down-regulation of SNHG16 alleviates the acute lung injury in sepsis rats through miR-128-3p/HMGB3 axis
Authors: Sun Junli , Xin Keke , Leng Chenghui , Ge Jianlin
Published: June 2021

Background

Long noncoding RNAs contribute to various inflammatory diseases, including sepsis. We explore the role of small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 (SNHG16) in sepsis-mediated acute lung injury (ALI) and inflammation.

Methods

A sepsis-induced ALI rat model was constructed by the cecal ligation and perforation method. The profiles of SNHG16, miR-128-3p, and high-mobility group box 3 (HMGB3) were monitored by quantitative reverse transcription PCR and Western blot. The pathologic changes of lung tissues were evaluated by Hematoxylin–Eosin staining, immunohistochemistry, and dry and wet method. Meanwhile, the pro-inflammatory factors and proteins were determined by ELISA and Western blot. In contrast, a sepsis model in BEAS-2B was induced with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to verify the effects of SNHG16/miR-128-3p/HMGB3 on lung epithelial cell viability and apoptosis.

Results

As a result, SNHG16 and HMGB3 were up-regulated, while miR-128-3p was down-regulated in sepsis-induced ALI both in vivo and in vitro. Inhibiting SNHG16 reduced the apoptosis and inflammation in the sepsis-induced ALI model. Overexpressing SNHG16 promoted LPS-mediated lung epithelial apoptosis and inhibited cell viability and inflammation, while miR-128-3p had the opposite effects. Mechanistically, SNHG16 targeted miR-128-3p and attenuated its expression, while miR-128-3p targeted the 3′ untranslated region of HMGB3.

Conclusions

Overall, down-regulating SNHG16 alleviated the sepsis-mediated ALI by regulating miR-128-3p/HMGB3.
EML4-ALK-mediated activation of the JAK2-STAT pathway is critical for non-small cell lung cancer transformation
Authors: Li Ying , Li Yongwen , Zhang Hongbing , Shi Ruifeng , Zhang Zihe , Liu Hongyu , Chen Jun
Published: June 2021

Background

The echinoderm microtubule-associated protein-like-4 anaplastic lymphoma kinase (EML4-ALK) fusion gene was identified in a subset of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. They responded positively to ALK inhibitors. This study aimed to characterize the mechanisms triggered by EML4-ALK to induce NSCLC transformation.

Methods

HEK293 and NIH3T3 cells were transfected with EML4-ALK variant 3 or pcDNA3.1-NC. H2228 cells were transfected with siRNA-EML4-ALK or siRNA-NC. Cell viability and proliferation were measured by the CCK-8 and EdU methods, respectively. Flow cytometry revealed apoptosis. Gene expression profiles were generated from a signaling pathway screen in EML4-ALK-regulated lung cancer cells and verified by qPCR and Western blotting. The co-immunoprecipitation and immunohistochemistry/ immunofluorescence determined the interaction and colocalization of JAK2-STAT pathway components with EML4-ALK.

Results

Microarray identified several genes involved in the JAK2-STAT pathway. JAK2 and STAT6 were constitutively phosphorylated in H2228 cells. EML4-ALK silencing downregulated phosphorylation of STAT6. Expression of EML4-ALK in HEK293 and NIH3T3 cells activated JAK2, STAT1, STAT3, STAT5, and STAT6. In EML4-ALK-transfected HEK293 cells and EML4-ALK-positive H2228 cells, activated STAT6 and JAK2 colocalized with ALK. STAT3 and STAT6 were phosphorylated and translocated to the nucleus of H2228 cells following IL4 or IL6 treatment. Apoptosis increased, while cell proliferation and DNA replication decreased in H2228 cells following EML4-ALK knockdown. In contrast, HEK293 cell viability increased following EML4-ALK overexpression, while H2228 cell viability significantly decreased after treatment with ALK or JAK-STAT pathway inhibitors.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that the aberrant expression of EML4-ALK leads to JAK2-STAT signaling pathway activation, which is essential for the development of non-small cell lung cancer.
In vitro and in vivo tenocyte-protective effectiveness of dehydroepiandrosterone against high glucose-induced oxidative stress
Authors: Mukohara Shintaro , Mifune Yutaka , Inui Atsuyuki , Nishimoto Hanako , Kurosawa Takashi , Yamaura Kohei , Yoshikawa Tomoya , Kuroda Ryosuke
Published: June 2021

Background

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), an adrenal steroid, has a protective role against diabetes. This study aimed to investigate the in vitro and in vivo protective effects of DHEA against high glucose-induced oxidative stress in tenocytes and tendons.

Methods

Tenocytes from normal Sprague-Dawley rats were cultured in low-glucose (LG) or high-glucose (HG) medium with or without DHEA. The experimental groups were: control group (LG without DHEA), LG with DHEA, HG without DHEA, and HG with DHEA. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, apoptosis, and messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of NADPH oxidase (NOX) 1 and 4, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were determined. Further, diabetic rats were divided into a control group and a DHEA-injected group (DHEA group). NOX1 and NOX4 protein expression and mRNA expression of NOX1, NOX4, IL-6, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMP)-2, and type I and III collagens in the Achilles tendon were determined.

Results

In rat tenocytes, DHEA decreased the expression of NOX1 and IL-6, ROS accumulation, and apoptotic cells. In the diabetic rat Achilles tendon, NOX1 protein expression and mRNA expression of NOX1, IL-6, MMP-2, TIMP-2, and type III collagen were significantly lower while type I collagen expression was significantly higher in the DHEA group than in the control group.

Conclusions

DHEA showed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, DHEA improved tendon matrix synthesis and turnover, which are affected by hyperglycemic conditions. DHEA is a potential preventive drug for diabetic tendinopathy.
Pressure pain thresholds in individuals with knee pain: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Sylwander Charlotte , Larsson Ingrid , Haglund Emma , Bergman Stefan , Andersson Maria L.E.
Published: June 2021

Background

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA), chronic widespread pain (CWP) and overweight/obesity are public health problems that often coincide, and there is a multifactorial and unclear relationship between them. The study aimed to (1) investigate pain sensitivity, assessed by pressure pain thresholds (PPTs), among women and men with knee pain and (2) associations with, respectively, radiographic KOA (rKOA), CWP, and overweight/obesity.

Methods

Baseline data from an ongoing longitudinal study involving 280 individuals with knee pain in the 30–60 age group. Pain sensitivity was assessed by PPTs on eight different tender points using a pressure algometer. The participants’ knees were x-rayed. Self-reported CWP and number of pain sites were assessed with a pain figure, and overweight/obesity was measured using body mass index (BMI), visceral fat area (VFA), and body fat percentage, assessed with a bioimpedance. Associations were analysed using regression analyses.

Results

Women reported lower PPTs than men (p < 0.001), but no PPTs differences were found between those with and without rKOA. Low PPTs was associated with female sex, more pain sites, CWP, and a higher VFA and body fat percentage. The tender points second rib and the knees were most affected. The prevalence of CWP was 38 %.

Conclusions

The modifiable factors, increased VFA, and body fat could be associated with increased pain sensitivity among individuals with knee pain. Longitudinal studies are needed to further investigate the associations.
Healing of rectal advancement flaps for anal fistulas in patients with and without Crohn’s disease: a retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Seifarth Claudia , Lehmann Kai S. , Holmer Christoph , Pozios Ioannis
Published: June 2021

Background

Surgical closure of anal fistulas with rectal advancement flaps is an established standard method, but it has a high degree of healing failure in some cases. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for anal fistula healing failure after advancement flap placement between patients with cryptoglandular fistulas and patients with Crohn’s disease (CD).

Methods

From January 2010 to October 2020, 155 rectal advancement flaps (CD patients = 55, non-CD patients = 100) were performed. Patients were entered into a prospective database, and healing rates were retrospectively analysed.

Results

The median follow-up period was 189 days (95% CI: 109–269). The overall complication rate was 5.8%. The total healing rate for all rectal advancement flaps was 56%. CD patients were younger (33 vs. 43 years, p < 0.001), more often female (76% vs. 30%, p < 0.001), were administered more immunosuppressant medication (65% vs. 5%, p < 0.001), and had more rectovaginal fistulas (29% vs. 8%, p = 0.001) and more protective stomas (49% vs. 2%, p < 0.001) than patients without CD. However, no difference in healing rate was noted between patients with or without CD (47% vs. 60%, p = 0.088).

Conclusions

Patients with anal fistulas with and without Crohn’s disease exhibit the same healing rate. Although patients with CD display different patient-specific characteristics, no independent factors for the occurrence of anal fistula healing failure could be determined.

Trial registration Not applicable due to the retrospective study design.
A new modified Gant-Miwa-Thiersch combined with submucosal and perirectal sclerosant injection procedure for full-thickness rectal prolapse in elderly women: clinical analysis of 34 cases
Authors: Wang Jinxi , Li Huiyu , Ma Xiaoming , Du Gang , Ma Jun , Ren Xiaojing , Zhang Fang , Dong Xiushan , Zhao Haoliang , Ren Chongren
Published: June 2021

Background

Full-thickness rectal prolapse (FTRP) frequently occurs in elderly women, and more than 100 surgical procedures have been proposed to restore FTRP. The Gant-Miwa-Thiersch (GMT) procedure is the most used treatment in China. However, the recurrence rate of FTRP post-GMT, which is as high as 23.8%, is concerning. We described a new modified GMT combined with internal and external rectal sclerosant injection (nmGMTSI) procedure to address this problem.

Methods

The nmGMTSI was performed under spinal anesthesia in 34 frail, elderly female patients with FTRP. The surgical results of FTRP were assessed. Fecal incontinence and constipation were evaluated using the Wexner score, and anal canal rest pressure (ACRP), maximum anal systolic pressure (MASP), anorectal sensation thresholds (AST), and maximum rectal tolerance (MRT) using anorectal manometry preoperatively and postoperatively. The causes of recurrence and complications were analyzed.

Results

All patients were cured according to the clinical cure standard. The perioperative Wexner fecal incontinence score (WFIS) was 10.3 ± 3.31, which became 3.7 ± 2.43 (P < 0.0001) postoperatively. The perioperative ACRP was 2.0 ± 0.56 kPa, which became 8.5 ± 2.25 kPa (P < 0.0001) postoperatively. The perioperative MASP was 4.5 ± 1.16 kPa, which became 18.6 ± 2.50 kPa (P < 0.0001) postoperatively. However, no significant difference was observed between the preoperative and postoperative Wexner constipation scores (WCS) (17.3 ± 2.25 vs. 15.4 ± 2.89, P = 0.1047). The perioperative and postoperative AST were 38.1 ± 5.34 mL and 23.5 ± 3.61 mL, respectively (P = 0.0002). The maximum rectal tolerance (MRT) was 157.1 ± 16.73 mL, which became 121.2 ± 12.45 mL postoperatively (P = 0.0009). The patients developed no serious postoperative complications. The total relapse rate after nmGMTSI was 2.9% in the median two years follow-up period. The most common cause of relapse after nmGMTSI was the removal of infected threads used in the Thiersch procedure.

Conclusion

The benefits of nmGMTSI include low rates of recurrence, complications, and mortality, cost-effectiveness, wide adaptation, minimal invasiveness, and technical simplicity. Hence, it should be considered the first option for the treatment of FTRP in frail elderly women.