bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ancient Hybridization with an Unknown Population Facilitated High-Altitude Adaptation of Canids
Authors: Wang Ming-Shan , Wang Sheng , Li Yan , Jhala Yadvendradev , Thakur Mukesh , Otecko Newton O , Si Jing-Fang , Chen Hong-Man , Shapiro Beth , Nielsen Rasmus , Zhang Ya-Ping , Wu Dong-Dong 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Genetic introgression not only provides material for adaptive evolution but also confounds our understanding of evolutionary history. This is particularly true for canids, a species complex in which genome sequencing and analysis has revealed a complex history of admixture and introgression. Here, we sequence 19 new whole genomes from high-altitude Tibetan and Himalayan wolves and dogs and combine these into a larger data set of 166 whole canid genomes. Using these data, we explore the evolutionary history and adaptation of these and other canid lineages. We find that Tibetan and Himalayan wolves are closely related to each other, and that ∼39% of their nuclear genome is derived from an as-yet-unrecognized wolf-like lineage that is deeply diverged from living Holarctic wolves and dogs. The EPAS1 haplotype, which is present at high frequencies in Tibetan dog breeds and wolves and confers an adaptive advantage to animals living at high altitudes, was probably derived from this ancient lineage. Our study underscores the complexity of canid evolution and demonstrates how admixture and introgression can shape the evolutionary trajectories of species.
NF90 modulates processing of a subset of human pri-miRNAs
Authors: Grasso Giuseppa , Higuchi Takuma , Mac Victor , Barbier Jérôme , Helsmoortel Marion , Lorenzi Claudio , Sanchez Gabriel , Bello Maxime , Ritchie William , Sakamoto Shuji , Kiernan Rosemary 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are predicted to regulate the expression of &gt;60% of mammalian genes and play fundamental roles in most biological processes. Deregulation of miRNA expression is a hallmark of most cancers and further investigation of mechanisms controlling miRNA biogenesis is needed. The double stranded RNA-binding protein, NF90 has been shown to act as a competitor of Microprocessor for a limited number of primary miRNAs (pri-miRNAs). Here, we show that NF90 has a more widespread effect on pri-miRNA biogenesis than previously thought. Genome-wide approaches revealed that NF90 is associated with the stem region of 38 pri-miRNAs, in a manner that is largely exclusive of Microprocessor. Following loss of NF90, 22 NF90-bound pri-miRNAs showed increased abundance of mature miRNA products. NF90-targeted pri-miRNAs are highly stable, having a lower free energy and fewer mismatches compared to all pri-miRNAs. Mutations leading to less stable structures reduced NF90 binding while increasing pri-miRNA stability led to acquisition of NF90 association, as determined by RNA electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). NF90-bound and downregulated pri-miRNAs are embedded in introns of host genes and expression of several host genes is concomitantly reduced. These data suggest that NF90 controls the processing of a subset of highly stable, intronic miRNAs.
Comparison of the Accuracy of C1 Pedicle Screw Fixation Using Fluoroscopy and Free-Hand Techniques in Patients With Posterior Arch Thickness of Less Than 4 mm
Authors: Lee Byung-Jou , Kim Myeongjong , Jeong Seong Kyun , Lee Subum , Jeon Sang-Ryong , Roh Sung Woo , Park Jin Hoon 
Published: May 2020

Abstract

BACKGROUND
C1 pedicle screw insertion is not easy, and more fluoroscopy can be required for safe insertion. Fluoroscopy is time consuming and increases patient radiation exposure. There have been no studies comparing the accuracy of C1 pedicle screw insertion using the fluoroscopy and free-hand techniques.

OBJECTIVE
To describe a free-hand C1 pedicle screw insertion method in patients with the posterior arch thickness of less than 4 mm in the thinnest part of the groove, and to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of C1 pedicle screw insertion using fluoroscopy vs using the free-hand technique.

METHODS
A total of 25 patients who had atlantoaxial instability with a C1 posterior arch <4 mm and were treated with C1 pedicle screw insertion were included. In 10 patients, fluoroscopy was used for C1 pedicle screw insertion, and 15 patients underwent the free-hand technique. We compared the radiologic and clinical outcomes between the 2 groups.

RESULTS
In patients who underwent the free-hand technique, 96.5% of screws were rated as safe (grade A or B), and 80.0% of screws in the fluoroscopy group were rated as safe. Postoperative occipital neuralgia occurred in one patient in the fluoroscopy group and did not occur in the free-hand technique group. There was no significant difference in the improvement of Nurick grade between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION
C1 pedicle screw insertion using the free-hand technique is feasible and safe in patients with a C1 posterior arch <4 mm.
The Role of Postoperative Bandage Contact Lens in Patients Undergoing Fasanella-Servat Ptosis Repair
Authors: Adam Robert S. , Harvey John T. , Gould Jonah N. , Suntheralingam Sivisan , Farrokhyar Forough 
Published: May 2020

Purpose:
To determine whether a bandage contact lens (BCL) improves patient comfort in the postoperative period in patients undergoing ptosis repair using the Fasanella-Servat technique, compared with no BCL.

Methods:
In this prospective, randomized, double-masked, comparison study, all patients had bilateral Fasanella-Servat surgery. A total of 30 patients were randomized to receive a BCL in one eye and no BCL in the other eye. Patient discomfort was measured as the primary outcome using the Eye Sensation Scale. Blurred vision was measured as a secondary outcome using selected questions from the Ocular Surface Disease Index. The surgeries were performed by 2 surgeons (J.T.H and R.S.A). Outcomes were measured one week following the procedure.

Results:
Patients reported significantly less discomfort in the eye receiving a BCL, with only 13.3% ranking discomfort as “moderate” or “severe,” compared with the eye not receiving BCL, where 63.3% of patients rated discomfort as “moderate” or “severe” (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in patient-reported blurred vision between the 2 groups (p = 0.520).

Conclusions:
The use of a bandage contact lens after Fasanella-Servat procedure for ptosis repair is recommended as it improves patient comfort. In addition, it has no detrimental effect on patient-reported blurring of vision.
A Time-Series Analysis of the Association Between Occupational Health Policies and Opioid Prescription Patterns in United States Active Duty Military Service Members From 2006 to 2018
Authors: Jannace Kalyn C. , Giordano Nicholas A. , Thelus Rosenie , Mukherjee Dhritiman V. , Tilley MAJ Laura , Highland Krista Beth 
Published: May 2020

Objective:
The Department of Defense (DoD) implemented numerous occupational health policies to guide opioid prescribing to active duty military service members (ADSM). This retrospective time series analysis evaluated the impact of DoD policies on opioid prescribing trends in ADSM from 2006 to 2018.

Methods:
Bayesian structural time-series models with a Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm for posterior inference and a semi-local linear trend were constructed to estimate the impact of polices.

Results:
Results indicate annual opioid proportions significantly decreased after the introduction of occupational health policies introduced in 2011 to 2012. Collectively, occupational policies were associated with a significant reduction (6.6%) in annual opioid rates to ADSM following 2012. This observed effect was associated with approximately 121,000 less opioid prescriptions dispensed in 2018 alone.

Conclusions:
Occupational health policy interventions were associated with reductions in opioid prescribing within the DoD.
Factors Related to Physical and Mental Health in Workers With Different Categories of Employment
Authors: Park Jungsun , Kim Yangho 
Published: May 2020

Introduction:
We examined a large representative sample of workers in South Korea to compare the subjective well-being and musculoskeletal symptoms of those with standard employment and those with non-standard employment (temporary, daily, and part-time work).

Methods:
This was a secondary analysis of data from the fifth Korean Working Condition Survey, conducted in 2017.

Results:
Female part-time workers who had temporary and daily jobs were more likely to have poor subjective well-being, whereas female regular workers with part-time jobs were less likely to have poor subjective well-being than regular workers with full-time jobs. Daily workers of both sex with full-time jobs were more likely to have musculoskeletal pain than regular workers.

Conclusion:
Our characterization of workers with precarious employment indicated that several modifiable factors affected the subjective well-being and musculoskeletal symptoms of these workers.
A National Survey of Health and Safety Knowledge and Beliefs Among Technical Vocational Faculty in Autobody Collision Repair Technology
Authors: Parker David L. , Bejan Anca , Marscin Melissa , Xi Min 
Published: May 2020

Objectives:
Career technical education (CTE) programs prepare new generations of technicians in a variety of trades. Even though occupational safety and health (OSH) ought to be included as an essential part of CTE curricula it is frequently absent or inadequately taught.

Methods:
OSH knowledge and beliefs were assessed in a national sample of 125 secondary and post-secondary faculty in autobody collision repair technology.

Results:
Over 50% of faculty thought at least 75% of OSH knowledge was learned at school, and 9% felt that safety was primarily learned on the job. Knowledge scores ranged from 22% to 78%. Overall knowledge scores were significantly lower high school than post-secondary instructors (42% vs 50%, P ≤ 0.001) and in two categories: hazard recognition (44% vs 54%, P ≤ 0.05) and hazard control and shop equipment (30% vs 37%, P ≤ 0.05).

Conclusions:
There are substantial gaps in OSH knowledge among secondary and post-secondary CTE instructors. CTE programs should address these gaps by providing trade-specific safety and health education to their instructors upon hiring.
The effect of lung-conduction exercise in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Lee Su Won , Lyu Yee Ran , Park So Jung , Kwak Jin Young , Yang Won Kyung , Kim Seung Hyung , Kang Weechang , Son Ji Woong , Jung In Chul , Park Yang Chun 
Published: May 2020

Abstract

Background:
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an irreversible disease characterized by cough, sputum production, and dyspnea, and has a high prevalence and mortality. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is a management that improves the quality of life for COPD patients; however, PR is not readily accessible. Therefore, we developed lung-conduction exercises (LCE) that can be performed without any limitations. LCE consists of breathing, stretching, and tapping to relieve dyspnea in COPD patients.

Methods/design:
This randomized, assessor-blind, multicenter trial aims to recruit 54 patients with moderate and severe COPD. Subjects will be randomly allocated to a control group (only medication), an LCE group (medication + LCE, 5 times a week), or a PR group (medication + PR, 5 times a week). The 6-minute walk distance, pulmonary function tests (forced expiratory volume at 1 second, forced vital capacity, and forced expiratory volume at 1 second/forced vital capacity), modified Borg scale, modified medical research council dyspnea scale, COPD assessment test, and St. George respiratory questionnaire will be measured before starting the trial and after the 4th and 8th weeks to determine motor performance, lung function, and dyspnea.

Conclusion:
We aim to demonstrate that LCE is effective in improving symptoms and psychosomatic stability in COPD patients. Therefore, this trial will play an important role in fortifying the foundation of clinical application.
Clinical significance of progranulin correlated with serum soluble Oxford 40 ligand in primary Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Qi Xuan , Guo Huifang , Sun Chao , Tian Yu , Ding Meng , Yang Yushu , Jin Hongtao 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the association between the expressions of serum progranulin (PGRN) and serum soluble Oxford 40 ligand (sOX40L) and determine their clinical significances in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS).
The present study included a total of 68 patients with pSS and 50 healthy controls. Demographic data and clinical basic information were collected. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed to determine serum levels of PGRN, sOX40L and interleukins. Spearman's correlation coefficient and Mann–Whitney U test were used to determine the correlation between PGRN, and sOX40L and the association between PGRN and sOX40L and disease activity and disease severity.
Serum interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, IL-10, PGRN, and sOX40L levels were significantly higher in pSS patients as compared to the healthy controls. A positive correlation was observed between PGRN and sOX40L. Patients with elevated levels of PGRN or sOX40L exhibited higher disease activity compared to those with lower levels. Patients with III to IV stages of pSS or multiple system damage showed higher serum levels of PGRN and sOX40L.
Elevated serum PGRN, and sOX40L levels were relevant with disease activity and severity in patients with pSS.
A case report and literature review
Authors: Yan Zi , Gang Xiaokun , Xie Xiaona , Gao Ying , Li Zhuo , Wang Guixia 
Published: May 2020

Abstract

Rationale:
Autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome type 1 (APS-1), also referred as the autoimmune polyendocrinopathy candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy (APECED), is a rare autosomal inherited disease predominantly among Caucasians from Northern Europe. This syndrome is very rare in East Asian population.

Patients concerns:
Here, we describe a case of a 15-year-old Chinese boy admitted due to a 1-month history of intermittent fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. His symptom became worse accompanied with chest tightness 4 days before admission. On physical examination, his temperature was 38.5°C, blood pressure was 75/38 mm Hg, and pulse was 98/min. He was a thin boy with mild hyperpigmentation and xanthochromia.

Diagnosis:
After abdominal computed technology and laboratory tests, his diagnosis was APS-1 accompanied with adrenal crisis. Further investigation on whole-exome sequencing revealed a novel homozygous mutation c.47C>G (p.T16R) in exon 1 in the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) gene.

Interventions:
This patient underwent replacement therapy of glucocorticoids, corticosteroid, and levothyroxine, as well as calcium and calcitriol supplementation.

Outcomes:
He continues to do well 4 years after his hospitalization. During his last follow-up, he had serum thyroid-stimulating hormone level of 3.07 μIU/mL, free triiodothyronine level of 1.92 pg/mL, and free thyroxine level of 13.95 pg/mL. His serum cortisol and ACTH (8 a.m.) levels were 28.53 μg/dL and 69.48 pg/mL, respectively.

Lessons:
APS-1 is very rare in East Asians and the variable clinical presentations of the disease make the initial diagnosis especially difficult. Autoimmune thyroiditis, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and hepatitis were the three most frequent minor components of APS-1 in East Asian patients with age of onset in late teens and 20s. Sequence analysis of AIRE gene is necessary to verify its diagnostic efficacy in association with clinical findings.
Bilateral stellate ganglion block for migraine
Authors: Moon Suyoung , Lee Joonhee , Jeon Younghoon 
Published: May 2020

Abstract

Rationale:
Migraine is a recurrent, disabling neurovascular headache disorder. The patient's quality of life can be severely impaired by migraine attacks. Stellate ganglion block (SGB) can be used to relieve pain in the head, neck, and upper extremities. In the present cases, we performed SGB in 2 patients with migraine that responds poorly to drugs.

Patient concerns:
Patients 1 and 2 suffered from chronic, bilateral pulsating headache, accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Patient 1 presented with headache of 8 on the visual analog scale (VAS), and 37 on the migraine disability assessment (MIDAS). Patient 2 reported headache of 7 on the VAS, and 32 on the MIDAS.

Diagnosis:
The patients were diagnosed with migraine without aura based on the International Classification of Headache Disorders version 3.

Interventions:
Patient 1 was treated with bilateral SGB every week for a month and then every month for 3 months. Patient 2 received bilateral SGB every 2 weeks for a month and then every month for 3 months.

Outcomes:
Four months after SGB, patient 1 reported pain intensity of 4 on VAS and 6 on MIDAS and patient 2 rated pain intensity of 3 on VAS, and 6 on MIDAS, respectively.

Lessons:
The SGB can be an effective option to improve headache-related disability and relieve pain intensity in the patients with refractory migraine.
Gastric lymphoma complicated by phlegmonous gastritis and Guillain–Barré syndrome
Authors: Kuriyama Kodai , Koyama Yuki , Tsuto Kazuma , Tokuhira Natsuko , Nagata Hiroaki , Muramatsu Ayako , Oshiro Muneo , Hirakawa Yoshiko , Iwai Toshiki , Uchiyama Hitoji 
Published: May 2020

Abstract

Introduction:
Complications such as severe infection may occur during the chemotherapy of malignant lymphoma. Phlegmonous gastritis (PG) is a rare acute bacterial infection associated with high mortality, requiring early diagnosis, and prompt management. In addition, Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) occasionally requires early treatment and intensive care management due to the occurrence of severe neuropathy and respiratory failure.

Patient concerns:
A 70-year-old male was diagnosed with primary gastric diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) after the detection of several polypoid tumors with ulcers. The patient underwent chemotherapy for DLBCL and exhibited adverse effects (i.e., fever, vomiting, epigastric pain, and neutropenia). Computed tomography indicated widespread thickening in the gastric wall. Furthermore, approximately 2 weeks later, the patient presented with gradual symmetric lower extremity weakness and respiratory failure due to paralysis of the respiratory muscle.

Diagnoses:
DLBCL was diagnosed through a gastric tumor biopsy. On the basis of the computed tomography findings, a culture of gastric juice, nerve conduction studies, and clinical symptoms, this case of gastric lymphoma was complicated with PG and GBS.

Interventions:
The patient was treated with antimicrobial therapy and administration of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor for PG, and with intravenous immunoglobulin and intensive care management for GBS.

Outcomes:
Despite the aggressive progress of the condition, the patient improved without relapse of DLBCL.

Conclusion:
PG was regarded as a precedent infection of GBS. In this article, we present the first reported case of gastric lymphoma complicated with PG and GBS.
Clinical significance of the combined measurement of serum B7-H1 and interleukin-10 in colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Wang Peng , Li Chun , Ma Xuzhe , Gai Xiaodong 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) patients have been shown to express a cytokine signature that is detectable in serum and contributes to cancer pathogenesis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential clinical significance of preoperative circulating cytokine levels in CRC patients.
The expression of serum B7-H1 and IL-10 was assessed by ELISA in 89 patients and 64 health volunteers. As a control marker, CEA serum levels were measured by electrochemical luminescence detection. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to analysis to demonstrate the potential diagnostic value of these biomarkers.
The expression of serum B7-H1 was significantly increased in CRC patients (P = .001) and associated with the progression of TNM stage and a positive association with serum IL-10 levels was also evident. Furthermore, serum B7-H1 and IL-10 expression was not influenced by age, gender, tumor location, or mass, whereas a relationship existed with tumor metastasis and TNM stage. The serum levels of B7-H1 and IL-10 on the 7th postoperative day were significantly decreased compared with that of preoperative serum levels (P = .001, P = .003 respectively). The area under the ROC curves (AUC) for B7-H1 and IL-10 were 0.7063 and 0.5706, respectively. The optimal sensitivity and specificity of B7-H1 for discriminating between colon cancer patients and healthy controls were 85.21% and 56.43%, respectively, using a cut-off value of 3.46 ng/mL. However, the combined ROC analysis using B7-H1 and IL-10 revealed an AUC of 0.8791, with a sensitivity of 90.63% and a specificity of 75.18%.
The outcomes of the present study demonstrate the clinical significance of serum B7-H1 and IL-10 concentrations. Combined detection of B7-H1 plus IL-10 showed significantly increased sensitivity and specificity for discriminating between colorectal cancer patients and healthy controls compared these markers detection individual. The measurement of B7-H1 or IL-10 in sera following surgery may provide an additional tool for assessing the curative effects of surgery in CRC patients.
Impact of neoadjuvant chemotherapy on survival prognosis and pathological downstaging in patients presenting with high-risk upper tract urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Li Kun , Xie Wenjie , Gao Liang , Huang Gaomin , Zhou Jiaming , Mei Baoyu , Chen Jie 
Published: May 2020

Abstract

Purpose:
Controversy remains with using neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). Thus, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the peer-reviewed literature to assess the role of NAC in high-risk UTUC patients.

Methods:
PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were the main sources of relevant studies. The search terms included: “Upper urothelial carcinoma”; “UTUC”; “Urinary tract cancer”; and “Transitional cell carcinoma” combined with “Neoadjuvant chemotherapy” and “adjuvant chemotherapy”. We studied the relationship of UTUC and NAC. Overall survival, recurrent-free survival, cancer-specific survival and pathological response rate in patients treated with/without NAC before radical surgery were evaluated.

Results:
Five trials were selected, and included 532 participants. Each of the included studies was retrospective. The combined analysis showed that when compared to controls, the pooled hazard ratios of overall survival, recurrence-free survival and cancer-specific survival were 0.47 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.34–0.64; P < .00001); 0.50 (95% CI, 0.37–0.66; P < .00001); and 0.37 (95% CI, 0.25–0.54; P < .00001), respectively. It indicates the beneficial effects of NAC for the prognosis of survival in UTUC. Additionally, NAC was significantly associated with T-stage down-grading (T3/4 to ≤T2; OR=7.58 [4.66, 12.33]; P < .0001) and pathological lymph node status (N+ to N0; OR = 6.24 [2.57,15.15]; P < .00001).

Conclusions:
NAC treatment before radical nephron-ureterectomy significantly improves survival prognosis in patients with high-risk upper tract urothelial carcinoma. However, considerable prospective and randomized studies are needed to confirm this perspective.