Association between survivin -31G>C polymorphism and cancer risk: meta-analysis of 29 studies

Purpose

A growing body of evidence has shown the possible relevance of survivin -31G>C (rs9904341) promoter polymorphism to the genetic susceptibility of cancer. Because of the lack of available conclusive data, we performed a meta-analysis of all relevant available studies to derive a more precise estimation of the relationship.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search of Medline electronic database was conducted to collect relevant studies until August 18, 2013. References of the retrieved articles were also screened. The extracted data were statistically analyzed, and pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to estimate the association strength using Stata version 11.2 software.

Results

A total of 29 studies with 7,473 cancer cases and 9,086 controls were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, the pooled analysis revealed that suvivin -31G>C polymorphism was significantly associated with increased cancer risk under multiple genetic models (CC vs. GG: OR = 1.37, 95 % CI 1.06–1.76; CC vs. CG: OR = 1.27, 95 % CI = 1.10–1.46; CC vs. CG + GG: OR = 1.31, 95 % CI = 1.10–1.57). In subgroup analysis with different cancer types, the -31G>C polymorphism significantly increased the risk of colorectal, gastric, and urothelial cancers, while this SNP remarkably decreased the susceptibility to hepatocellular carcinoma. Further stratification analysis by ethnicity showed an increasing cancer risk in the Asian population (CC vs. GG: OR = 1.61, 95 % CI 1.17–2.21; CC vs. CG: OR = 1.31, 95 % CI 1.12–1.53; CC vs. CG + GG: OR = 1.43, 95 % CI 1.16–1.77) but not in Europeans.

Conclusions

The survivin -31G>C polymorphism is associated with elevated cancer risk, especially among colorectal, gastric, and urothelial cancers and Asian populations.     

Association between genetic variants in pre-miRNA and colorectal cancer risk in a Chinese population

Introduction

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in pre-miRNAs may alter microRNA expression levels or processing and then contribute to the susceptibility of cancer development. We hypothesized that SNPs in pre-miRNAs may be associated with the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC).

Materials and methods

We genotyped four common polymorphisms (i.e., rs11614913, rs3746444, rs2910164, and rs2292832) in pre-miRNAs of 353 CRC patients and 540 healthy controls to investigate the association between the SNPs and the risk of CRC using polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) assay.

Results

The rs11614913 CT, TT genotypes, and T allele were associated with an increased risk of CRC compared with the CC genotype and C allele (CT vs. CC: OR = 7.34, 95 % CI 3.76–14.34; TT vs. CC: OR = 13.66, 95 % CI 6.76–27.6; T vs. C: OR = 1.99, 95 % CI 1.63–2.42, respectively). Interestingly, using the rs2910164 GG genotype as a reference, the rs2910164 GC genotype was associated with an increased risk of CRC (OR = 1.49, 95 % CI 1.02–2.18), whereas the rs2910164 CC genotype was associated with a decreased risk of CRC (OR = 0.58, 95 % CI 0.37–0.93). When compared with the rs2910164G allele, rs2910164 C allele was associated with a reduced risk of CRC (OR = 0.80, 95 % CI 0.66–0.97, p = 0.02).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that rs11614913 and rs2910164 polymorphisms may be associated with the etiology of CRC.     

Vegetarianism as a Protective Factor for Reflux Esophagitis: A Retrospective, Cross-Sectional Study Between Buddhist Priests and General Population

Background/Aims

Several risk factors for reflux esophagitis, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and metabolic syndrome, are recognized. But vegetarianism as a protective factor for reflux esophagitis has not been reported. The aim of this study is to elucidate the protective effect of vegetarianism for reflux esophagitis.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study that compared the prevalence of reflux esophagitis of 148 Buddhist priests, who are obligatory vegetarians with that of age- and sex-matched controls who underwent health checkups in a health promotion center.

Results

The prevalence of reflux esophagitis was higher in the control group than in the Buddhist priest group (21.6 vs 12.2 %). Weight, body mass index, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and abdominal adipose tissue area were higher and high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and total cholesterol were lower in the Buddhist priest group. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was higher in the Buddhist priest group than the control group (30.4 vs 17.6 %). In univariate analysis, male sex (odds ratio [OR] = 3.325; 95 % confidence interval [CI], 1.659–6.666), current smoking (OR = 3.37; 95 % CI, 1.439–7.881), alcohol consumption (OR = 2.75; 95 % CI, 1.375–5.481), waist circumference (OR = 1.99; 95 % CI, 1.062–3.739), negative for Helicobacter pylori IgG antibody (OR = 1.89; 95 % CI, 1.018–3.491) and non-vegetarianism (OR = 1.99; 95 % CI, 1.062–3.739) were associated with reflux esophagitis. According to multivariate analysis, male sex (OR = 3.44; 95 % CI, 1.698–6.970), non-vegetarianism (OR = 2.08; 95 % CI, 1.086–3.974) and negative H. pylori IgG antibody (OR = 1.96; 95 % CI, 1.039–3.712) were significantly associated with reflux esophagitis.

Conclusions

A non-vegetarian diet is associated with reflux esophagitis.     

The Association Between TP53 Arg72Pro Polymorphism and Lung Cancer Susceptibility: Evidence from 30,038 Subjects

Background

The TP53 codon 72 polymorphism has been associated with the individual susceptibility to lung cancer. However, the association remains uncertain and varies with ethnicity, smoking status, cancer histology, and stage.

Methods

We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the relationship between TP53 Arg72Pro polymorphism and lung cancer susceptibility basing on 15,647 lung cancer patients and 14,391 controls from 36 published literatures. We also performed stratified analysis in populations of different ethnicities, smoking statuses, lung cancer stages, and histological types.

Results

The analysis showed a significantly increased lung cancer susceptibility among Pro allele carriers (P < 0.001, odds ratio (OR) = 1.14, 95 % confidence interval (CI) = 1.1–1.19), especially for smokers (P < 0.001, OR = 1.29, 95 % CI = 1.12–1.47). Stratified analysis indicated that Pro72 elevates lung cancer susceptibility in Asians, while it has no effect on lung cancer risk of Caucasians. Moreover, Pro carriers present an increased risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, instead of large cell carcinoma and small cell carcinoma. Interestingly, patients with the Pro allele seemed to be diagnosed with lung cancer at the early stages (stage I–II, P = 0.008, OR = 1.2, 95 % CI = 1.05–1.37).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the Pro allele acts as a risk factor for development of lung cancer, especially for smokers and Asians.     

A meta-analysis of the relation of polymorphism at sites −1082 and −592 of the IL-10 gene promoter with susceptibility and clearance to persistent hepatitis B virus infection in the Chinese population

Background

Up to now, many publications about the Chinese population have evaluated the correlation between interleukin-10 (IL-10) ?1082 and ?592 polymorphisms and persistent hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. However, the results remain inconclusive. In order to resolve this conflict, a meta-analysis was performed.

Methods

Seven studies were included and dichotomous data are presented as the odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

The results of our study suggest that carriers of the IL-10 ?592A allele were more likely to clear HBV spontaneously in the Chinese pooled population (A vs. C: OR = 0.799, 95% CI = 0.678–0.941, P = 0.007; AC vs. AA: OR = 1.343, 95% CI = 1.017–1.684, P = 0.011; AA vs. AC + CC: OR = 0.736, 95% CI = 0.594–0.912; AA + AC vs. CC: OR = 0.588, 95% CI = 0.408–0.848, P = 0.004) and the IL-10 ?1082A allele was associated with significantly reduced persistent HBV infection risk in Chinese (A vs. G: OR = 0.701, 95% CI = 0.494–0.996, P = 0.047; AA vs. GG + GA: OR = 0.684, 95% CI = 0.476–0.982, P = 0.040).

Conclusions

Persistent HBV infection susceptibility is associated with the gene polymorphism IL-10 ?1082GA in the Chinese population and the clearance of HBV is associated with the gene polymorphism IL-10 ?592CA in the Chinese population.     

Polymorphisms in DNA repair genes XRCC1, XRCC3 and XPD, and colorectal cancer risk: a case–control study in an Indian population

Purpose

Genetic polymorphisms in DNA repair genes may influence variations in individual DNA repair capacity, which could be associated with the development of cancer. We detected the distributions of three single-nucleotide polymorphisms (XRCC1 Arg399Gln, XRCC3 Thr241Met and XPD Lys751Gln) in DNA repair genes, and assessed the associations of these genetic polymorphisms with colon and rectal cancer susceptibility as well as evaluated the interactions of gene–gene and gene–environment in a case–control study of an Indian population.

Methods

This case–control study was conducted with 302 cases (including 59 colon and 243 rectal cancer patients) and 291 cancer-free healthy controls. Genotypes were determined by PCR–RLFP assays. The effects [odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs)] of genetic polymorphisms on colorectal cancer were estimated using unconditional logistic regression.

Results

The XRCC1 399Gln allele was found to be associated with a significantly increased rectal cancer risk among men (OR = 1.65, 95% CI 1.04–2.64). Whereas the XRCC3 241Met allele showed a protective tendency against rectal cancer (OR = 0.68, 95% CI 0.46–1.02) for both men and women. Furthermore, a combination of the XRCC1 399Gln allele with XRCC3 Thr/Thr genotype and the XPD 751Gln allele demonstrated the highest rectal cancer risk (OR = 3.52, 95% CI 1.43–9.44).

Conclusions

The combined effects of putative risk alleles/genotypes for different DNA repair pathways may strengthen the susceptibility to rectal cancer.     

XRCC1 Arg399Gln, Arg194Trp, and Arg280His Polymorphisms in Esophageal Cancer Risk: A Meta-Analysis

Background

The X-ray repair cross-complementation group 1 (XRCC1) protein plays an important role in base excision repair.

Aim

To elucidate the role of XRCC1 Arg399Gln, Arg194Trp and Arg280His genotypes in esophageal cancer risk, all available studies were considered in the present meta-analysis.

Methods

Eligible studies were identified by searching several electronic databases for relevant reports published before June 2012.

Results

According to the inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria, a total of 21 eligible studies were included in the pooled analyses. Among the 21 studies, 18 focused on Arg399Gln polymorphism, 11 described the Arg194Trp, and 4 articles investigated on Arg280His. Our analysis suggested that there was no evidence of significant association between XRCC1 Arg399Gln polymorphism and esophageal cancer risk in any genetic model. In the stratified analysis by ethnicity for Arg399Gln polymorphism and esophageal cancer, the results showed that Arg399Gln polymorphism was not associated with esophageal cancer risk. Only 4 studies analyzed the relationship between XRCC1 Arg280His polymorphism and the risk of esophageal cancer. The Arg/His and His/His genotypes were not significantly associated with increased risk of EC. A similar negative association was maintained in dominant and recessive models. However, for XRCC1 Arg194Trp polymorphism, our study showed individuals carrying the variant genotype Trp/Trp had a significant increased risk of esophageal cancer (OR = 1.295, 95 % CI 1.053–1.591, P = 0.014). In addition, increased associations were found in recessive model (OR = 1.332, 95 % CI 1.093–1.624, P = 0.005).

Conclusions

Our meta-analysis suggested that Arg194Trp Trp allele might act as a risk allele in its association with esophageal cancer.     

Prevalence of Colorectal Neoplasia Among Young African Americans and Hispanic Americans

Background

The disproportionately higher incidence of and mortality from colorectal cancer (CRC) among African Americans (AA) led the American College of Gastroenterology to recommend screening starting at age 45 in 2005.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of colorectal neoplasia among 40–49-year-old inner city AA and Hispanic Americans (HA).

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of 2,435 inner city AA and HA who underwent colonoscopy regardless of indication and compared the prevalence of colorectal neoplasia between AA and HA patients. We used logistic regression models to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95 % confidence intervals (CI).

Results

There were 2,163 AAs and 272 HA. There were 57 % women in both groups. A total of 158 (7 %) AA and 9 (3 %) HA (P = 0.014) underwent the procedures for CRC screening. When compared to HAs, AAs had higher prevalence of any polyp (35 vs. 18 %, OR = 2.53; 95 % CI 1.82–3.52). Overall, AA had higher prevalence of colorectal neoplasia (adenoma and cancer) when compared to HAs (16 vs. 10 %; OR = 1.68; 95 % CI 1.10–2.56).

Conclusion

We observed a higher frequency of colorectal neoplasia among 40–49-year-old AAs as compared to HAs suggesting an increased susceptibility to CRC risk in this population.     

Water infusion versus air insufflation for colonoscopy: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background

The aim of this meta-analysis was to determine whether water infusion colonoscopy (WIC) is a more effective diagnostic tool than standard air insufflation colonoscopy (AIC).

Methods

All articles pertinent to a comparison of water-related methods and air insufflation to facilitate insertion of the colonoscope were retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane databases. Pooling results were derived by using the Review Manager Software. Outcomes were assessed using the weighted mean difference (MD) with 95 % confidence intervals (CI) for continuous variables and the odds ratios (OR) with 95 % CI for dichotomous variables.

Results

Eighteen studies involving 2,797 patients were included. WIC was associated with a significantly higher cecal intubation rate than AIC (OR = 1.90; 95 % CI 1.21–2.99; p = 0.005). The intubation time was similar for the two types of colonoscopy, but in WIC there was a significantly lower visual analog scale score for abdominal pain than in AIC (MD = ?1.30; 95 % CI ?2.03 to ?0.58; p < 0.001) without sacrificing the polyp detection rate (OR = 1.17; 95 % CI 0.78–1.77; p = 0.44). Statistically, the patient’s willingness to repeat colonoscopy was significantly greater for WIC than for AIC (OR = 1.74; 95 % CI 1.14–2.67; p < 0.01). Furthermore, in the subgroup for trainees, the WIC group achieved a higher cecal intubation rate (OR = 1.83; 95 % CI 1.15–2.93; p = 0.01) and a shorter intubation time (MD = ?1.72 min; 95 % CI ?3.34 to ?0.11; p = 0.04) than the AIC group.

Conclusions

In contrast to AIC, WIC improved cecal intubation, alleviated abdominal pain, and increased patients’ willingness to repeat the procedure.     

Association between promoters polymorphisms of matrix metalloproteinases and risk of digestive cancers: a meta-analysis

Purpose

A variety of studies have been performed to elucidate the polymorphisms in promoter regions of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) associated with the risk of digestive cancers, and yet, results remain conflicting and heterogeneous. Thus, we undertook a systematic meta-analysis to determine the genetic susceptibility of MMPs to digestive cancers.

Methods

A computerized literature search was conducted in databases of PubMed, Embase, and ISI Web of Knowledge till October 2012 for any MMP genetic association study in oral squamous, gastric, esophageal, and colorectal carcinomas. Odds ratios (OR) and 95 % confidence interval (CI) were estimated for each gene under dominant and recessive models, and the heterogeneity between studies was assessed using Q test and I ² value. Overall and subgroup analysis according to anatomical sites and ethnicity was carried out. Statistical analysis was performed with Review Manager 5.0.

Results

A total of 40 eligible publications with 68 comparisons were included in this study. For MMP1 nt-1607, individuals with 2G state could increase risk of digestive cancers in total analysis (dominant: OR = 1.31, 95 % CI = 1.16–1.48, P < 0.00001; recessive: OR = 1.29, 95 % CI = 1.11–1.50, P = 0.0009). In the subgroup of tumor sites, significant associations were also observed in esophageal cancer and colorectal cancer under both genetic models. For MMP2 nt-1306, CT or TT carriers performed significant protection against digestive cancer in the dominant model (OR = 0.69, 95 % CI = 0.55–0.85, P = 0.0007) of the overall. In the subgroup analysis, significant association was found in esophageal cancer, with borderline effects in gastric cancer and oral squamous cell carcinoma. For MMP7 ?181 A/G, significant association was observed under two genetic models in the overall (dominant: OR = 1.26, 95 % CI = 1.10–1.43, P = 0.0009; recessive: OR = 1.33, 95 % CI = 1.11–1.60, P = 0.002) and in the individual cancer subgroup of esophageal cancer and gastric cancer. For MMP9 ?1,562 C/T, a borderline effect was found with digestive cancers in the total and stratified analysis of the colorectal cancer under dominant model. No association was observed in either the overall or subgroup analysis for MMP3 ?1,171 5A/6A.

Conclusions

Our meta-analysis demonstrated the fact that polymorphisms in promoter regions of MMP genes might be related to the susceptibility of digestive cancers, with cancer development for MMP1 and MMP7, and a protection against cancer for MMP2 and MMP9. Further evidences with adequate sample sizes need to be conducted.     

Risk factors for false-negative results of T-SPOT.TB and tuberculin skin test in extrapulmonary tuberculosis

Purpose

T-SPOT.TB, a recently developed T cell-based assay, has shown promise in diagnosing extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB). However, a limited number of reports have compared the risk factors for false-negative results of tuberculin skin tests (TSTs) and T-SPOT.TB assays in patients with EPTB. We, thus, conducted a prospective, blinded, observational study to evaluate the risk factors for false-negative T-SPOT.TB and TST results in patients with EPTB.

Methods

Between April 2008 and November 2011, all adult patients with suspected EPTB were prospectively enrolled at Asan Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea (an intermediate TB-burden country). Only patients with confirmed and probable EPTB who underwent TST and T-SPOT.TB were included in the final analysis.

Results

Of the 324 patients who underwent both TST and T-SPOT.TB testing, 128 patients with 96 (75 %) culture- or polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-confirmed and 32 (25 %) probable EPTB were finally analyzed. T-SPOT.TB assays were less likely to yield false-negative results than TSTs [17 % (22/128) vs. 54 % (69/128), p < 0.001]. In a multivariate analysis, miliary TB was associated with false-negative TSTs [odds ratio (OR) = 5.3; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.7–16.1], while immunosuppression showed a trend toward false-negative TSTs (OR = 2.5; 95 % CI 0.9–6.8). Conversely, lymph node TB (OR = 0.2; 95 % CI 0.1–0.5) and skeletal TB (OR = 0.2; 95 % CI 0.1–0.5) were associated with true-positive TST results. The only risk factor for false-negative T-SPOT.TB results was TB meningitis (OR = 2.6; 95 % CI 1.0–6.6).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that T-SPOT.TB has a better sensitivity to diagnose EPTB than TST, especially in patients with immunosuppression or miliary TB.     

Backwash Ileitis and the Risk of Colon Neoplasia in Ulcerative Colitis Patients Undergoing Restorative Proctocolectomy

Background

The significance of backwash ileitis (BWI) relating to the risk of colon neoplasia in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients is controversial.

Aim

We investigated the association between BWI and the presence of colon neoplasia in the colectomy specimen.

Methods

From 4,198 UC patients in a prospectively maintained pouch database from 1983 to 2011, patients with extensive colitis and BWI (n = 178) in proctocolectomy were compared with 537 controls [extensive colitis (n = 385) and left-sided colitis (n = 152)] without ileal inflammation.

Results

Colon neoplasia (colon dysplasia and/or colon cancer) was seen in 32 (18 %) patients with BWI in contrast to 45 (11.7 %) with extensive colitis and 13 (8.6 %) with left-sided colitis alone (p = 0.03). Of those with BWI, colon cancer was seen in 10 patients (5.6 %), while low grade and high grade dysplasia were seen in 7 (3.9 %) and 15 (8.4 %) patients respectively. On multivariate analysis, the presence of BWI with extensive colitis [odds ratio (OR) = 3.53; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.01–12.30, p = 0.04], presence of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) (OR = 5.79, 95 % CI 1.92–17.40, p = 0.002) and moderate to severe disease activity at UC diagnosis (OR 4.29, 95 % CI 2.06–9.01, p < 0.001) were associated with an increased risk for identifying any colon neoplasia. For colon cancer, the presence of PSC (OR = 11.30, 95 % CI 1.54–80.9, p = 0.01) was the only factor independently associated with an increased risk.

Conclusions

The presence of BWI with extensive colitis was associated with the risk of identifying colon neoplasia but not cancer alone in the proctocolectomy specimen.     

Positive association between circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and prostate cancer risk: new findings from an updated meta-analysis

Purpose

To investigate and clarify the relationship between circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D level and prostate cancer risk.

Methods

We conducted the meta-analysis to better evaluate the association. Terms “25-Hydroxyvitamin D”/“vitamin D” and “prostate cancer” were used for literature search.

Results

We identified 21 relevant publications from databases of PubMed and MEDLINE and included 11,941 cases and 13,870 controls in the meta-analysis. Overall studies revealed a significant 17 % elevated risk of prostate cancer for individuals with higher level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (OR = 1.17, 95 % CI = 1.05–1.30, P  = 0.004), and no publication bias was found in the calculations (P  = 0.629). Subgroup analysis confirmed the association from nested case–control study group, studies from USA group and studies using serum samples group (nested case–control studies: OR = 1.17, 95 % CI = 1.08–1.27, P < 0.001; USA: OR = 1.15, 95 % CI = 1.03–1.29, P = 0.017; serum: OR = 1.20, 95 % CI = 1.01–1.42, P = 0.042); moreover, sensitivity tests also indicated significant results in studies from Europe and studies conducting with plasma samples after exclusion of some influential single study from the analysis, respectively (Europe: OR = 1.21, 95 % CI = 1.04–1.40, P = 0.014; plasma: OR = 1.13, 95 % CI = 1.00–1.27, P = 0.05).

Conclusions

Our meta-analysis, for the first time, suggested significant positive relationship between high level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and increased risk of prostate cancer, reminding us that more concern should be taken into account during assessing the effect of 25-hydroxyvitamin D.     

Characterization of the Syndrome of UGI Bleeding from a Mallory-Weiss Tear Associated with Transesophageal Echocardiography

Aim

To quantitatively describe the syndrome of Mallory-Weiss tears associated (MWa) with antecedent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) as a distinct syndrome.

Methods

Cases of MWa were identified by comprehensive, computerized literature search via PubMed and review of textbooks and monographs on TEE and gastroenterology. Statistical comparison of 17 identified MWa cases versus previously published series of 73 cases of Mallory-Weiss tears unassociated with TEE (MWu) was performed. A new illustrative case is also currently reported.

Results

Comparison between these two groups revealed the following: MWa patients were significantly older (67.1 vs. 52.6 years, p = .0002, assuming equal variance), likely due to MWa patients having preexisting cardiovascular disease for which the TEE was indicated. The two groups had similar sex distributions (60 vs. 76 % male, p = .32). MWa patients were significantly, more frequently anticoagulated at the time of bleeding (90.9 vs. 9.6 %, p < .00001, OR = 94.3, 95 %-OR CI: 9.56-2293), likely because of anticoagulation for underlying cardiac disease for which TEE was indicated. MWa patients tended to more frequently rebleed and more frequently require endoscopic therapy (both parameters: 4/17 vs. 8/73, p = .23) and tended to more frequently require surgery or angiography to control bleeding (3/17 vs. 3/73, p = .08). MWa patients had significantly higher mortality (23.5 vs. 2.7 %, p = .01, OR = 10.9, 95 %-OR CI 1.48–97.8), likely because of their older age, concomitant heart disease, and administered anticoagulation. A new case of MWa is reported with notable features that extend the clinical spectrum of this syndrome: (1) tear associated with hiatal hernia, (2) presentation with severe, fatal UGI bleeding, and (3) no anticoagulation during bleeding episode.

Conclusions

Patients with MWa represent a distinct clinical subset from patients with MWu, with significantly older mean age, more frequent concomitant anticoagulation, and higher mortality. They also tend to have more severe bleeding. These characteristics are important in clinically managing this syndrome.     

Associations between neck and shoulder discomfort (Katakori) and job demand, job control, and worksite support

Objectives

To examine the association of neck and shoulder discomfort (Katakori) with somatization and work-related factors (job demand, job control, and worksite support) in Japanese workers.

Methods

Cross-sectional data from 2,022 Japanese workers were analyzed using a logistic regression model to examine the association between Katakori and somatization. A multiple logistic regression model was used to examine the association between Katakori and work-related factors (long working hours, job control, and support from colleagues and supervisors) after adjusting for possible confounding factors.

Results

The odds of Katakori were higher among respondents with somatic symptoms than among those without (OR = 2.81 and 95 % CI 2.10–3.75 for 1 symptom vs. no symptoms; OR = 3.86 and 95 % CI 2.92–5.12 for 2+ symptoms vs. no symptoms). Lack of worksite support was significantly associated with Katakori (adjusted OR = 2.62; 95 % CI 1.79–3.83). Long working hours and a lack of job control were not significantly associated with Katakori.

Conclusions

Katakori may be a form of somatization. A significant association was observed between Katakori and lack of worksite support from colleagues or supervisors. An increase in the social support provided at work may decrease the prevalence of this condition and improve workers’ well-being, but more research is needed to substantiate this hypothesis.     

Assessment of the XPC (A2920C), XPF (T30028C), TP53 (Arg72Pro) and GSTP1 (Ile105Val) polymorphisms in the risk of cutaneous melanoma

Purpose

We examined the influence of XPC A2920C, XPF T30028C, TP53 Arg72Pro and GSTP1 Ile105Val polymorphisms in the risk of cutaneous melanoma (CM).

Methods

DNA from 146 CM patients and 146 controls was analysed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)—restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP).

Results

The frequencies of XPC CC (15.1 vs. 6.9 %, P = 0.02), TP53 ArgArg (59.6 vs. 45.9 %, P = 0.02), XPC CC plus TP53 ArgArg (19.7 vs. 5.2 %, P = 0.01) and TP53 ArgArg plus GSTP1 IleIle (50.7 vs. 35.6 %, P = 0.03) genotypes were higher in patients than in controls. Carriers of the respective genotypes were under a 2.51 (95 % CI: 1.13–5.55), 1.76 (95 % CI: 1.09–2.83), 4.52 (95 % CI: 1.35–15.16), and 2.01 (95 % CI: 1.04–3.90)-fold increased risks for CM than others, respectively. An excess of TP53 ArgArg genotype was seen in patients with excessive sun exposure compared to patients with standard sun exposure (69.2 vs. 44.1 %, P = 0.02) and also compared to controls (69.2 vs. 45.9 %, P = 0.002). Individuals with TP53 ArgArg genotype and highly exposed to sunlight had 2.65 (95 % CI: 1.42–4.92)-fold increased risk for CM than others. XPC CC (27.8 vs. 10.4 %, P = 0.02) and the GSTP1 IleIle (58.3 vs. 36.8 %, P = 0.04) genotypes were more common in patients with advanced tumours than in patients with localized tumours and were also more common in these patients than in controls (27.8 vs. 6.9 %, P = 0.001; 58.3 vs. 37.0 %, P = 0.02, respectively). Individuals with the respective genotypes had 5.23 (95 % CI: 1.97–13.82)-fold and 2.38 (95 % CI: 1.13–5.01)-fold increased risks for advanced tumour than others, respectively.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that inherited abnormalities of XPC, XPF, TP53 and GSTP1 pathways of the DNA repair, apoptosis and metabolism of reactive oxygen species are important determinants of CM in individuals from south-eastern Brazil.     

Polymorphisms of Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk: A HuGE Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Studies investigating the associations between tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFA) polymorphisms and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk report conflicting results. We conducted a meta-analysis to assess the association between TNFA gene TNFA-308(G/A), TNFA-238(G/A), TNFA-863(C/A), TNFA-857(C/T), TNFA-1031 (T/C) polymorphisms and HCC susceptibility.

Methods

Two investigators independently searched the Medline, Embase, CNKI, and Chinese Biomedicine Database. Summary odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for TNFA polymorphisms and HCC were calculated in a fixed-effects model (the Mantel?CHaenszel method) and a random-effects model (the DerSimonian and Laird method) when appropriate.

Results

This meta-analysis included 17 case?Ccontrol studies, which included 2,357 HCC cases and 3,161 controls. Overall, the variant genotypes AA/AG of -308G/A were associated with a significantly increased HCC risk, when compared with GG genotype (AA vs. GG, OR = 1.97, 95%CI = 1.01?C3.83; AG vs. GG, OR = 1.88, 95%CI = 1.23?C2.88; AA/AG vs. GG, OR = 1.80, 95%CI = 1.19?C2.72). When stratifying for ethnicity, significantly elevated HCC risk was found among Asians. Moreover, similar results were observed between TNFA-238G/A, TNFA-863C/A polymorphisms and HCC risk among Asians (for -238G/A, AG vs. GG OR = 1.63, 95%CI = 1.17?C2.26, AA/AG vs. GG OR = 1.61, 95%CI = 1.16?C2.24; for -863 C/A, AC vs. CC OR = 1.72, 95%CI = 1.03?C2.88, AA/AC vs. CC OR = 1.71, 95%CI = 1.02?C2.86), while no associations were observed between TNFA-857C/T, TNFA-1031T/C polymorphisms and HCC susceptibility.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis shows that TNFA-308G/A, TNFA-238G/A and TNFA-863C/A polymorphisms may be associated with HCC among Asians. TNFA-857C/T and TNFA-1031T/C polymorphisms were not detected to be related to the risk for HCC.     

TNF-β +252 A>G polymorphism and susceptibility to cancer

Objective

Tumor necrosis factor-β (TNF-β) plays important roles in mediating cancer development. Many studies have argued possible associations of TNF-β +252 A>G polymorphism with different cancers. However, association between this most frequently studied polymorphism and susceptibility to cancer still remains controversial and ambiguous. The aim of this study is to determine the relationship of TNF-β +252 A>G polymorphism with cancer through meta-analysis.

Methods

Electronic searches of several databases were conducted for all publications on the associations between this variant and cancer through October 2011. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95 % confidence intervals (95 % CIs) were used to access the strength of this association in random-effect model.

Results

Thirty-three studies with 14,435 cancer patients and 10,583 healthy controls were included. In this meta-analysis, we detected statistically significant connections between this polymorphism and cancer risks [GG + GA vs. AA: OR = 1.24, 95 % CI = 1.02–1.51; GG vs. AA: OR = 1.43, 95 % CI = 1.05–1.95; G vs. A: OR = 1.28, 95 % CI = 1.28 (1.09–1.50)] in the overall ethnic population. Meanwhile, we detected significant associations in Asian population (GG + GA vs. AA), other population (GG vs. GA + AA), and Caucasian population (GG vs. AA, G vs. A) with the OR values being 1.21 (1.04–1.40), 1.64 (1.35–1.99), 1.65 (1.02, 2.65), and 1.39 (1.09–1.75), respectively.

Conclusions

TNF-β +252 A>G polymorphism is positively associated with susceptibility to cancer. However, this study also suggests that more studies should be conducted to further confirm the associations between this variant and specific types of cancers.     

Association Between Cyclin D1 Polymorphism with CpG Island Promoter Methylation Status of Tumor Suppressor Genes in Gastric Cancer

Background

CpG island hypermethylation of tumor suppressor genes is highly involved in gastric carcinogenesis, and enhanced cell proliferation could accelerate this process. Cyclin D1 regulates cell cycle function and may play a role in methylation-related carcinogenesis.

Aims

We investigated the association between Cyclin D1 gene G870A polymorphism and the methylation status of tumor suppressor genes in gastric cancer.

Methods

Polymorphisms at G870A in the Cyclin D1 gene were genotyped, and methylation status of the p14, p16, DAP-kinase, and CDH1 genes were determined by methylation-specific-polymerase chain reaction in 139 gastric cancer tissues. CIHM high was defined as three or more methylated CpG islands.

Results

Although no association was found between methylation status and different stages and Lauren’s subtypes, patients with CIHM of DAP-kinase showed significantly worse survival than those without (p = 0.017). In addition, the number of methylated sites was also associated with survival curves (p = 0.0397). The 870G carrier a significantly lower prevalence of CIHM high compared to the AA genotype in advanced-stage gastric cancer (adjusted OR = 0.32, p = 0.047). A weak correlation between the same genotypes and CIHM of p14 were found in the same subtype (adjusted OR = 0.32, p = 0.052). The mean methylation number was significantly lower in G carriers than in AA genotypes in advanced-stage gastric cancer (p = 0.017).

Conclusions

Genetic polymorphism of CCND1 is associated with CIHM status in gastric cancer, especially in the advanced stage, but is independent of clinico-pathological features.