bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of health education in improving knowledge, attitude and practice related to foodborne zoonotic trematodes in Vietnam, with a particular focus on Clonorchis sinensis
Authors: Nguyen Thao Thi Bich , Bui Dung Thi , Losson Bertrand , Dahma Hafid , Nguyen Anh Thi Tuyet , Nhu Hung Van , Do Dung Trung , Dorny Pierre , Vandenberg Olivier , Dermauw Veronique
Published: February 2024

Objective

Foodborne zoonotic trematodes (FZT), which infect the liver, lungs and intestines of humans, are an emerging public health concern in tropical countries including Vietnam. In northern Vietnam, Clonorchis sinensis is recognised as the most important species of the FZT. Up to now, small‐scale studies conducted in the country have indicated that health education could improve participants' knowledge and practices related to clonorchiasis, however strong evidence is still lacking. We conducted an intervention trial between 2020 and 2021 in four communes in Yen Bai and Thanh Hoa province, aiming to evaluate the impact of an extended educational package on knowledge, attitude and practices related to clonorchiasis, as well as on knowledge on the large liver fluke and minute intestinal flukes.

Methods

To this end, baseline and post‐intervention questionnaires were conducted. Generalised estimating equations models were run to analyse the impact of the intervention on knowledge, attitudes and practices over time in the intervention versus control group. Finally, 172 people in the intervention group and 162 in the control group were included for analysis.

Results

Results demonstrated that the intervention significantly improved clonorchiasis knowledge, attitudes and practices, with higher odds for a correct knowledge response (odds ratio (OR) = 2.80, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.84–4.27, p‐value < 0.001), increased average mean attitude score (mean = 0.363, 95%CI = 0.182–0.544, p‐value < 0.001), and a reduced odds of consuming raw fish (OR = 0.15, 95%CI = 0.06–0.40, p = 0.002) in the intervention group compared to the control group post‐intervention versus baseline. Additionally, participants in the intervention group exhibited enhanced basic knowledge of the large liver fluke and minute intestinal flukes post‐intervention.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate the potential of health education programs in preventing clonorchiasis in endemic areas, emphasising the importance of continued health education as a critical component of integrated control programs for clonorchiasis.
On the number of high‐dimensional partitions
Authors: Pohoata Cosmin , Zakharov Dmitrii
Published: February 2024

Let denote the number of ‐dimensional partitions with entries from . Building upon the works of Balogh–Treglown–Wagner and Noel–Scott–Sudakov, we show that when ,
holds for all . This makes progress toward a conjecture of Moshkovitz–Shapira [Adv. in Math. 262 (2014), 1107–1129]. Via the main result of Moshkovitz and Shapira, our estimate also determines asymptotically a Ramsey‐theoretic parameter related to Erdős–Szekeres‐type functions, thus solving a problem of Fox, Pach, Sudakov, and Suk [Proc. Lond. Math. Soc. 105 (2012), 953–982]. Our main result is a new supersaturation theorem for antichains in , which may be of independent interest.
Cortical–brainstem circuitry attenuates physiological stress reactivity
Authors: Pace Sebastian A. , Lukinic Ema , Wallace Tyler , McCartney Carlie , Myers Brent
Published: February 2024

Exposure to stressful stimuli promotes multi‐system biological responses to restore homeostasis. Catecholaminergic neurons in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) facilitate sympathetic activity and promote physiological adaptations, including glycaemic mobilization and corticosterone release. While it is unclear how brain regions involved in the cognitive appraisal of stress regulate RVLM neural activity, recent studies found that the rodent ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) mediates stress appraisal and physiological stress responses. Thus, a vmPFC–RVLM connection could represent a circuit mechanism linking stress appraisal and physiological reactivity. The current study investigated a direct vmPFC–RVLM circuit utilizing genetically encoded anterograde and retrograde tract tracers. Together, these studies found that stress‐activated vmPFC neurons project to catecholaminergic neurons throughout the ventrolateral medulla in male and female rats. Next, we utilized optogenetic terminal stimulation to evoke vmPFC synaptic glutamate release in the RVLM. Photostimulating the vmPFC–RVLM circuit during restraint stress suppressed glycaemic stress responses in males, without altering the female response. However, circuit stimulation decreased corticosterone responses to stress in both sexes. Circuit stimulation did not modulate affective behaviour in either sex. Further analysis indicated that circuit stimulation preferentially activated non‐catecholaminergic medullary neurons in both sexes. Additionally, vmPFC terminals targeted medullary inhibitory neurons. Thus, both male and female rats have a direct vmPFC projection to the RVLM that reduces endocrine stress responses, likely by recruiting local RVLM inhibitory neurons. Ultimately, the excitatory/inhibitory balance of vmPFC synapses in the RVLM may regulate stress reactivity and stress‐related health outcomes.

image

Key points

Glutamatergic efferents from the ventromedial prefrontal cortex target catecholaminergic neurons throughout the ventrolateral medulla.

Partially segregated, stress‐activated ventromedial prefrontal cortex populations innervate the rostral and caudal ventrolateral medulla.

Stimulating ventromedial prefrontal cortex synapses in the rostral ventrolateral medulla decreases stress‐induced glucocorticoid release in males and females.

Stimulating ventromedial prefrontal cortex terminals in the rostral ventrolateral medulla preferentially activates non‐catecholaminergic neurons.

Ventromedial prefrontal cortex terminals target medullary inhibitory neurons.
Development and reproduction of four predatory mites (Parasitiformes: Phytoseiidae) feeding on the spider mites Tetranychus evansi and T. urticae (Trombidiformes: Tetranychidae) and the dried fruit mite Carpoglyphus lactis (Sarcoptiformes: Carpoglyphidae)
Authors: Wang Juanjuan , Zhang Keshi , Li Lanjin , Zhang Zhi-qiang
Published: February 2024

The tomato red spider mite, Tetranychus evansi, a notorious crop pest, invaded New Zealand in 2020. In an effort to identify potential biological control agents for this species, we investigated the capabilities of four phytoseiid predators found in New Zealand—Amblyseius herbicolus, Amblyseius lentiginosus, Amblydromalus limonicus, and Neoseiulus californicus. For comparison, we also used the two-spotted spider mite, T. urticae, and the dried fruit mite, Carpoglyphus lactis, as prey for these predators. In our first experiment we monitored immature development and oviposition rate (over the first 5 days) of the phytoseiid predators when presented with the three prey species. While all four species of predators could develop and reproduce on the factitious (alternative and easily available) prey species C. lactis, they had limited success when feeding on T. evansi and T. urticae. Amblyseius herbicolus, A. lentiginosus, and Amblyd. limonicus were unable to reach adulthood when feeding on T. evansi and T. urticae in the presence of the protective webbing spun by the mites. While N. californicus matured when exposed to T. evansi reared on black nightshade leaves, it did not lay eggs—indicating potential limitations in prey suitability. In our second experiment, gravid females of all four predators failed to maintain their reproduction when provided with T. evansi in the presence of webbing. Neoseiulus californicus exhibited phenotypic plasticity in its developmental time, body size, and oviposition rate when feeding on the three prey species. This suggests that N. californicus has the flexibility to switch diets to survive during food scarcity, especially when their primary prey, T. urticae, is limited. This study is also the first to offer life history information about A. lentiginosus. Our findings underscore the difficulties of controlling T. evansi using phytoseiid predators and highlight the need for diversified pest management strategies, including the use of alternative insect predators or entomopathogenic fungi.
Before-School Physical Activity Program on Middle School Students’ Social and Emotional Learning and Energy Levels
Authors: Goh Tan Leng , Leong Chee Hoi
Published: February 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of a before-school physical activity program on middle school students’ social and emotional learning (SEL) and their energy levels. Method: A total of 171 students (67 in program group; 104 in control group) participated in the study from fall 2019 to spring 2022. The physical education teacher implemented the program 3 days per week, for 8 weeks. The students completed a 17-item SEL assessment before and after the program. The program group also reported their energy levels using an energy meter at each session. Results: Students’ SEL in program group improved by 14% (p < .001) at the end of the program. Students also reported higher energy levels (p < .001) following their participation at each session. Discussion/Conclusion: Schools are encouraged to incorporate before-school physical activity programs to energize the students at the start of the school day and improve their SEL.
Cooperative pro-tumorigenic adaptation to oncogenic RAS through epithelial-to-mesenchymal plasticity
Authors: De Blander Hadrien , Tonon Laurie , Fauvet Frédérique , Pommier Roxane M. , Lamblot Christelle , Benhassoun Rahma , Angileri Francesca , Gibert Benjamin , Rodriguez Raphaël , Ouzounova Maria , Morel Anne-Pierre , Puisieux Alain
Published: February 2024

In breast cancers, aberrant activation of the RAS/MAPK pathway is strongly associated with mesenchymal features and stemness traits, suggesting an interplay between this mitogenic signaling pathway and epithelial-to-mesenchymal plasticity (EMP). By using inducible models of human mammary epithelial cells, we demonstrate herein that the oncogenic activation of RAS promotes ZEB1-dependent EMP, which is necessary for malignant transformation. Notably, EMP is triggered by the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines from neighboring RAS-activated senescent cells, with a prominent role for IL-6 and IL-1α. Our data contrast with the common view of cellular senescence as a tumor-suppressive mechanism and EMP as a process promoting late stages of tumor progression in response to signals from the tumor microenvironment. We highlighted here a pro-tumorigenic cooperation of RAS-activated mammary epithelial cells, which leverages on oncogene-induced senescence and EMP to trigger cellular reprogramming and malignant transformation.
Exercise mitigates flow recirculation and activates metabolic transducer SCD1 to catalyze vascular protective metabolites
Authors: Cavallero Susana , Roustaei Mehrdad , Satta Sandro , Cho Jae Min , Phan Henry , Baek Kyung In , Blázquez-Medela Ana M. , Gonzalez-Ramos Sheila , Vu Khoa , Park Seul-Ki , Yokota Tomohiro , Sumner Jennifer , Mack Julia J. , Sigmund Curt D. , Reddy Srinivasa T. , Li Rongsong , Hsiai Tzung K.
Published: February 2024

Exercise promotes pulsatile shear stress in the arterial circulation and ameliorates cardiometabolic diseases. However, exercise-mediated metabolic transducers for vascular protection remain under-investigated. Untargeted metabolomic analysis demonstrated that wild-type mice undergoing voluntary wheel running exercise expressed increased endothelial stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) that catalyzes anti-inflammatory lipid metabolites, namely, oleic (OA) and palmitoleic acids (PA), to mitigate NF-κB–mediated inflammatory responses. In silico analysis revealed that exercise augmented time-averaged wall shear stress but mitigated flow recirculation and oscillatory shear index in the lesser curvature of the mouse aortic arch. Following exercise, endothelial
Scd1
–deleted mice (
Ldlr
−/−
Scd1
EC−/−
) on high-fat diet developed persistent VCAM1-positive endothelium in the lesser curvature and the descending aorta, whereas SCD1 overexpression via adenovirus transfection mitigated endoplasmic reticulum stress and inflammatory biomarkers. Single-cell transcriptomics of the aorta identified
Scd1
-positive and
Vcam1
-negative endothelial subclusters interacting with other candidate genes. Thus, exercise mitigates flow recirculation and activates endothelial SCD1 to catalyze OA and PA for vascular endothelial protection.
Anomalous cooling of bosons by dimensional reduction
Authors: Guo Yanliang , Yao Hepeng , Dhar Sudipta , Pizzino Lorenzo , Horvath Milena , Giamarchi Thierry , Landini Manuele , Nägerl Hanns-Christoph
Published: February 2024

Cold atomic gases provide a remarkable testbed to study the physics of interacting many-body quantum systems. Temperatures are necessarily nonzero, but cooling to the ultralow temperatures needed for quantum simulation purposes or even simply measuring the temperatures directly on the system can prove to be very challenging tasks. Here, we implement thermometry on strongly interacting two- and one-dimensional Bose gases with high sensitivity in the nanokelvin temperature range. Our method is aided by the fact that the decay of the first-order correlation function is very sensitive to the temperature when interactions are strong. We find that there may be a substantial temperature variation when the three-dimensional quantum gas is cut into two-dimensional slices or into one-dimensional tubes. Notably, the temperature for the one-dimensional case can be much lower than the initial temperature. Our findings show that this decrease results from the interplay of dimensional reduction and strong interactions.
Reflective, polarizing, and magnetically soft amorphous neutron optics with
11
B-enriched B
4
C
Authors: Zubayer Anton , Ghafoor Naureen , Thórarinsdóttir Kristbjörg Anna , Stendahl Sjoerd , Glavic Artur , Stahn Jochen , Nagy Gyula , Greczynski Grzegorz , Schwartzkopf Matthias , Le Febvrier Arnaud , Eklund Per , Birch Jens , Magnus Fridrik , Eriksson Fredrik
Published: February 2024

The utilization of polarized neutrons is of great importance in scientific disciplines spanning materials science, physics, biology, and chemistry. However, state-of-the-art multilayer polarizing neutron optics have limitations, particularly low specular reflectivity and polarization at higher scattering vectors/angles, and the requirement of high external magnetic fields to saturate the polarizer magnetization. Here, we show that, by incorporating
11
B
4
C into Fe/Si multilayers, amorphization and smooth interfaces can be achieved, yielding higher neutron reflectivity, less diffuse scattering, and higher polarization. Magnetic coercivity is eliminated, and magnetic saturation can be reached at low external fields (>2 militesla). This approach offers prospects for substantial improvement in polarizing neutron optics with nonintrusive positioning of the polarizer, enhanced flux, increased data accuracy, and further polarizing/analyzing methods at neutron scattering facilities.
Cryo-EM of soft-landed β-galactosidase: Gas-phase and native structures are remarkably similar
Authors: Esser Tim K. , Böhning Jan , Önür Alpcan , Chinthapalli Dinesh K. , Eriksson Lukas , Grabarics Marko , Fremdling Paul , Konijnenberg Albert , Makarov Alexander , Botman Aurelien , Peter Christine , Benesch Justin L. P. , Robinson Carol V. , Gault Joseph , Baker Lindsay , Bharat Tanmay A. M. , Rauschenbach Stephan
Published: February 2024

Native mass spectrometry (MS) has become widely accepted in structural biology, providing information on stoichiometry, interactions, homogeneity, and shape of protein complexes. Yet, the fundamental assumption that proteins inside the mass spectrometer retain a structure faithful to native proteins in solution remains a matter of intense debate. Here, we reveal the gas-phase structure of β-galactosidase using single-particle cryo–electron microscopy (cryo-EM) down to 2.6-Å resolution, enabled by soft landing of mass-selected protein complexes onto cold transmission electron microscopy (TEM) grids followed by in situ ice coating. We find that large parts of the secondary and tertiary structure are retained from the solution. Dehydration-driven subunit reorientation leads to consistent compaction in the gas phase. By providing a direct link between high-resolution imaging and the capability to handle and select protein complexes that behave problematically in conventional sample preparation, the approach has the potential to expand the scope of both native mass spectrometry and cryo-EM.
Multispecies transcriptomics identifies SIKE as a MAPK repressor that prevents NASH progression
Authors: Bai Lan , Qu Weiyi , Cheng Xu , Yang Hailong , Huang Yong-Ping , Wang Zhenya , Han Cuijuan , Tian Rui-Feng , Hu Fengjiao , Yang Ling , Tian Song , Tian Han , Cai Zhiwei , Wan Juan , Jiang Jingwei , Fu Jiajun , Zhou Junjie , Hu Yufeng , Ma Tengfei , Zhang Xin , Ji Yan-Xiao , Cai Jingjing , She Zhi-Gang , Wang Yibin , Zhang Peng , Huang Lingli , Li Hongliang , Zhang Xiao-Jing
Published: February 2024

Nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) remains relatively benign, but high-risk to end-stage liver diseases become highly prevalent when it progresses into nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Our current understanding of the development of NAFL to NASH remains insufficient. In this study, we revealed MAP kinase (MAPK) activation as the most notable molecular signature associated with NASH progression across multiple species. Furthermore, we identified suppressor of IKKε (
SIKE
) as a conserved and potent negative controller of MAPK activation. Hepatocyte-specific overexpression of
Sike
prevented NASH progression in diet- and toxin-induced mouse NASH models. Mechanistically, SIKE directly interacted with TGF-β–activated kinase 1 (TAK1) and TAK1-binding protein 2 (TAB2) to interrupt their binding and subsequent TAK1-MAPK signaling activation. We found that indobufen markedly up-regulated
SIKE
expression and effectively improved NASH features in mice and macaques. These findings identify SIKE as a MAPK suppressor that prevents NASH progression and provide proof-of-concept evidence for targeting the SIKE-TAK1 axis as a potential NASH therapy.
Autologous transplantation of P63
+
lung progenitor cells for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease therapy
Authors: Wang Yujia , Meng Zili , Liu Ming , Zhou Yueqing , Chen Difei , Zhao Yu , Zhang Ting , Zhong Nanshan , Dai Xiaotian , Li Shiyue , Zuo Wei
Published: February 2024

Adult lung resident stem/progenitor cells, including P63
+
progenitor cells, have demonstrated the capacity for regeneration of lung epithelium in preclinical models. Here, we report a clinical trial of intrapulmonary P63
+
progenitor cell transplantation in 28 participants with stage II to IV chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Autologous P63
+
progenitor cells were isolated from the airway basal layer of participants in the intervention group via bronchoscopic brushing, cultured for 3 to 5 weeks, and then transplanted back into the lungs via bronchoscopy at 0.7 × 10
6
to 5.2 × 10
6
cells per kilogram of body weight. Twenty patients were evaluable at the end of the study (intervention group,
n
= 17; control group,
n
= 3). No grade 3 to 5 adverse events (AEs) or serious AEs occurred. Although bronchoscopy-associated AEs were recorded in participants in the intervention group, other AEs were not substantial different between groups. Twenty-four weeks after transplantation, participants in the intervention group displayed improvement in gas transfer capacity [diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) change from baseline: +18.2%], whereas the control group experienced a decrease (DLCO change from baseline: −17.4%;
P
= 0.008). Furthermore, participants in the intervention group showed >30-meter increase in walking distance within 6 minutes. Transcriptomic analysis of progenitor cells isolated from responding and nonresponding individuals in the intervention group showed that higher expression of
P63
was associated with treatment efficacy. In conclusion, transplantation of cultured P63
+
lung progenitor cells was safe and might represent a potential therapeutic strategy for COPD.
Streptomyces
extracellular vesicles are a broad and permissive antimicrobial packaging and delivery system
Authors: Meyer Kirsten J. , Nodwell Justin R.
Published: February 2024

Streptomyces
are the primary source of bioactive specialized metabolites used in research and medicine, including many antimicrobials. These are presumed to be secreted and function as freely soluble compounds. However, increasing evidence suggests that extracellular vesicles are an alternative secretion system. We assessed environmental and lab-adapted
Streptomyces
(sporulating filamentous actinomycetes) and found frequent production of antimicrobial vesicles. The molecular cargo included actinomycins, anthracyclines, candicidin, and actinorhodin, reflecting both diverse chemical properties and diverse antibacterial and antifungal activity. The levels of packaged antimicrobials correlated with the level of inhibitory activity of the vesicles, and a strain knocked out for the production of anthracyclines produced vesicles that lacked antimicrobial activity. We demonstrated that antimicrobial containing vesicles achieve direct delivery of the cargo to other microbes. Notably, this delivery via membrane fusion occurred to a broad range of microbes, including pathogenic bacteria and yeast. Vesicle encapsulation offers a broad and permissive packaging and delivery system for antimicrobial specialized metabolites, with important implications for ecology and translation.

IMPORTANCE

Extracellular vesicle encapsulation changes our picture of how antimicrobial metabolites function in the environment and provides an alternative translational approach for the delivery of antimicrobials. We find many
Streptomyces
strains are capable of releasing antimicrobial vesicles, and at least four distinct classes of compounds can be packaged, suggesting this is widespread in nature. This is a striking departure from the primary paradigm of the secretion and action of specialized metabolites as soluble compounds. Importantly, the vesicles deliver antimicrobial metabolites directly to other microbes via membrane fusion, including pathogenic bacteria and yeast. This suggests future applications in which lipid-encapsulated natural product antibiotics and antifungals could be used to solve some of the most pressing problems in drug resistance.
Evaluation of the FluoroType Mycobacteria assay for identification of mycobacteria
Authors: Luukinen Bruno , Antikainen Jenni , Aittoniemi Janne , Miikkulainen-Lahti Terhi , Hyyryläinen Hanne-Leena , Pätäri-Sampo Anu
Published: February 2024

Accurate species identification is a prerequisite for successful management of tuberculosis and non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) diseases. The novel FluoroType Mycobacteria assay combines three established GenoType DNA strip assays (CM, AS, and NTM-DR), allowing detection of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
and 32 NTM species/subspecies in a single assay with automatic detection and result analysis. We evaluated the clinical performance of the FluoroType assay and its feasibility in replacing the GenoType Mycobacterium CM assay as the initial method for mycobacterial identification. A total of 191 clinical mycobacterial cultures were analyzed in this study: 180 identified for one mycobacterial species, 6 for multiple, and 5 for no mycobacterial species. Positive percent agreement (PPA) for the FluoroType assay was 87.8% (
n
= 158), with full agreement for 23/29 species. Weakest PPA was observed for
Mycobacterium gordonae
(50%,
n
= 9/18),
Mycobacterium interjectum
(40%,
n
= 2/5), and
Mycobacterium intracellulare
(42%,
n
= 5/12). Clinical and mixed cultures containing multiple mycobacterial species gave equally single species and genus level identifications (
n
= 30). No cross-reactivity with non-mycobacterial species was observed (
n
= 22). In a separate
in silico
analysis of 2016–2022 HUS area (Finland) register data (
n
= 2,573), the FluoroType assay was estimated to produce 18.8% (
n
= 471) inadequate identifications (genus/false species) if used as the primary identification method compared to 14.2% (
n
= 366) with the GenoType CM assay. The FluoroType assay was significantly more convenient in terms of assay workflow and result interpretation compared to the entirely manual and subjective GenoType CM assay. However, the feasibility of the assay should be critically assessed with respect to the local NTM species distribution.

IMPORTANCE

This study is the first clinical evaluation report of the novel FluoroType Mycobacteria assay. The assay has the potential to replace the established GenoType NTM product family in identification of culture-enriched mycobacteria. However, our research results suggest that the assay performs suboptimally and may not be feasible for use in all clinical settings.
Hyperacetylated microtubules assist porcine deltacoronavirus nsp8 to degrade MDA5 via SQSTM1/p62-dependent selective autophagy
Authors: Li Zhuang , Lai Yinan , Qiu Runhui , Tang Wenbing , Ren Jie , Xiao Shaobo , Fang Puxian , Fang Liurong
Published: February 2024

The microtubule (MT) is a highly dynamic polymer that functions in various cellular processes through MT hyperacetylation. Thus, many viruses have evolved mechanisms to hijack the MT network of the cytoskeleton to allow intracellular replication of viral genomic material. Coronavirus non-structural protein 8 (nsp8), a component of the viral replication transcriptional complex, is essential for viral survival. Here, we found that nsp8 of porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV), an emerging enteropathogenic coronavirus with a zoonotic potential, inhibits interferon (IFN)-β production by targeting melanoma differentiation gene 5 (MDA5), the main pattern recognition receptor for coronaviruses in the cytoplasm. Mechanistically, PDCoV nsp8 interacted with MDA5 and induced autophagy to degrade MDA5 in wild-type cells, but not in autophagy-related (ATG)5 or ATG7 knockout cells. Further screening for autophagic degradation receptors revealed that nsp8 interacts with sequestosome 1/p62 and promotes p62-mediated selective autophagy to degrade MDA5. Importantly, PDCoV nsp8 induced hyperacetylation of MTs, which in turn triggered selective autophagic degradation of MDA5 and subsequent inhibition of IFN-β production. Overall, our study uncovers a novel mechanism employed by PDCoV nsp8 to evade host innate immune defenses. These findings offer new insights into the interplay among viruses, IFNs, and MTs, providing a promising target to develop anti-viral drugs against PDCoV.

IMPORTANCE

Coronavirus nsp8, a component of the viral replication transcriptional complex, is well conserved and plays a crucial role in viral replication. Exploration of the role mechanism of nsp8 is conducive to the understanding of viral pathogenesis and development of anti-viral strategies against coronavirus. Here, we found that nsp8 of PDCoV, an emerging enteropathogenic coronavirus with a zoonotic potential, is an interferon antagonist. Further studies showed that PDCoV nsp8 interacted with MDA5 and sequestosome 1/p62, promoting p62-mediated selective autophagy to degrade MDA5. We further found that PDCoV nsp8 could induce hyperacetylation of MT, therefore triggering selective autophagic degradation of MDA5 and inhibiting IFN-β production. These findings reveal a novel immune evasion strategy used by PDCoV nsp8 and provide insights into potential therapeutic interventions.
Hydrological fluctuations in the Tarim Basin, northwest China, over the past millennium
Authors: Li Kangkang , Qin Xiaoguang , Plunkett Gill , Brown David , Xu Bing , Zhang Lei , Gu Zhaoyan , Mu Guijin , Jia Hongjuan , Yin Zhiqiang , Liu Jiaqi
Published: February 2024

Reconstruction of hydrological fluctuations in arid regions has proven challenging due to a lack of reliable chronologic constraints on sparse geological archives. The aim of this study was to establish an independent record of hydrologic changes in the hyper-arid Tarim Basin (TB; northwest China) with high spatiotemporal resolution. We present comprehensive radiocarbon and tree-ring data sets of subfossilized plant remains in the TB compiled from geomorphological investigations of the paleochannels of the Tarim River (TR), the longest endorheic river in China, crossing the world's second-largest shifting sand desert. Results show that the late medieval configuration of the TR basin was characterized by enhanced hydrological connectivity, as indicated by the formation of significant riparian forests in the desert regions at ca. 1170 CE. A distinct low-flow interval (ca. 1500–1650 CE) is identified for the first time, refining the period of a wetter-than-present TB. The present-day organization of streams in the lower TR was proto-formed after the dry period, possibly led by episodic flood-induced diversion. Our study describes the centennial-scale dynamics in the TR flow over the past millennium, offering a robust long-term context for hydrological assessment in the extensive drylands of the Asian interior.
Supplemental Material: Stratigraphy and depositional history of the Aguja Formation (Upper Cretaceous, Campanian) of West Texas, southwestern USA
Authors: Lehman T.M. , al. et
Published: February 2024

Item S1: Locality information and descriptions for 34 measured stratigraphic sections of the Aguja Formation. Table S1: Aguja Formation vertebrate fauna thus far known from biozones I to IV. Table S2: Aguja Formation wood types, megaflora, and palynomorphs thus far known from vertebrate biozones I to IV. 
Bilateral non-arteritic posterior ischaemic optic neuropathy following COVID-19 vaccination
Authors: Salh Dominique , Pinto Ashlyn , Freund Paul
Published: February 2024

We report a case of bilateral posterior ischaemic optic neuropathy, which followed vaccination with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 for COVID-19 prophylaxis. A man in his early 60s was initially assessed for bilateral acute vision loss following 3 days of frontal headaches. The patient denied any other preceding visual concerns or symptoms of giant cell arteritis. The patient received his first dose of the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccination 10 days before the onset of his symptoms.

At initial presentation, visual acuity was counting fingers bilaterally. Blood work found normal erythrocyte sedimentation rate (6 mm/hour) and C reactive protein (<5 mg/L) as well as a negative infectious and autoimmune serology. He was negative for COVID-19 with PCR testing. Diffusion-weighted MRI showed restricted diffusion along both optic nerves. After 5 months, the patient’s visual acuity remained counting fingers bilaterally with pale optic nerves. Isolated bilateral posterior ischaemic optic neuropathy has not been reported in association with the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine.
Large vulvar fibroepithelial polyp and review of differentials
Authors: Bahadur Anupama , Mundhra Rajlaxmi , Heda Ayush , Singh Ashok
Published: February 2024

Vulval fibroepithelial polyps (FEPs) are a rare type of vulval fibroblastic tumour commonly found in premenopausal women. It is important to obtain an accurate pathological diagnosis because, despite being benign, the condition shares some characteristics with malignant vulva lesions in its differential diagnosis. We present a case of young woman in her 20s with a giant FEP. After surgical excision, the patient did not manifest any signs of recurrence after 1-year follow-up. Our review focuses on the distinguishing characteristics of these rare neoplasms as we explore their differential diagnosis.
Association of vaginal oestradiol and the rate of breast cancer in Denmark: registry based, case-control study, nested in a nationwide cohort
Authors: Meaidi Amani , Pourhadi Nelsan , Løkkegaard Ellen Christine , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Mørch Lina Steinrud
Published: February 2024

Objective

To estimate the rate of breast cancer associated with use of vaginal oestradiol tablets according to duration and intensity of their use.

Design

Registry based, case-control study, nested in a nationwide cohort.

Setting

Based in Denmark using the civil registration system, the national registry of medicinal product statistics, the Danish cancer registry, the Danish birth registry, and statistics Denmark.

Participants

Women aged 50-60 years in year 2000 or turning 50 years during the study period of 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2018 were included. Exclusions were a history of cancer, mastectomy, use of systemic hormone treatment, use of the levonorgestrel releasing intrauterine system, or use of vaginal oestrogen treatments other than oestradiol tablets. To each woman who developed breast cancer during follow-up (18 997), five women in the control group (94 985) were incidence density matched by birth year.

Main outcome measure

The main outcome was pathology confirmed breast cancer diagnosis.

Results

2782 (14.6%) women with breast cancer (cases) and 14 999 (15.8%) women with no breast cancer diagnosis (controls) had been exposed to vaginal oestradiol tablets with 234 cases and 1232 controls having been in treatment for at least four years at a high intensity (>50 micrograms per week). Increasing durations and intensities of use (cumulative dose/cumulative duration) of vaginal oestradiol tablets was not associated with increasing rates of breast cancer.Compared withnever-use, cumulative use of vaginal oestradiol formore than nine yearswas associated with an adjusted hazard ratioof0.87 (95% confidence interval 0.69 to 1.11). Results were similar inwomen who hadlongterm use(≥four years)andwith high intensity of use (>50-70microgramsperweek) with anadjusted hazard ratio 0.93 (95% confidence interval 0.81 to 1.08).

Conclusions

Use of vaginal oestradiol tablets was not associated with increased breast cancer rate compared with never-use. Increasing duration and intensity of use was not associated with increased rates of breast cancer.
Tools for assessing quality of studies investigating health interventions using real-world data: a literature review and content analysis
Authors: Jiu Li , Hartog Michiel , Wang Junfeng , Vreman Rick A , Klungel Olaf H , Mantel-Teeuwisse Aukje K , Goettsch Wim G
Published: February 2024

Objectives

We aimed to identify existing appraisal tools for non-randomised studies of interventions (NRSIs) and to compare the criteria that the tools provide at the quality-item level.

Design

Literature review through three approaches: systematic search of journal articles, snowballing search of reviews on appraisal tools and grey literature search on websites of health technology assessment (HTA) agencies.

Data sources

Systematic search: Medline; Snowballing: starting from three articles (D’Andreaet al, Quigleyet aland Fariaet al); Grey literature: websites of European HTA agencies listed by the International Network of Agencies for Health Technology Assessment. Appraisal tools were searched through April 2022.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

We included a tool, if it addressed quality concerns of NRSIs and was published in English (unless from grey literature). A tool was excluded, if it was only for diagnostic, prognostic, qualitative or secondary studies.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two independent researchers searched, screened and reviewed all included studies and tools, summarised quality items and scored whether and to what extent a quality item was described by a tool, for either methodological quality or reporting.

Results

Forty-nine tools met inclusion criteria and were included for the content analysis. Concerns regarding the quality of NRSI were categorised into 4 domains and 26 items. The Research Triangle Institute Item Bank (RTI Item Bank) and STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) were the most comprehensive tools for methodological quality and reporting, respectively, as they addressed (n=20; 17) and sufficiently described (n=18; 13) the highest number of items. However, none of the tools covered all items.

Conclusion

Most of the tools have their own strengths, but none of them could address all quality concerns relevant to NRSIs. Even the most comprehensive tools can be complemented by several items. We suggest decision-makers, researchers and tool developers consider the quality-item level heterogeneity, when selecting a tool or identifying a research gap.

OSF registration number

OSF registration DOI (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/KCSGX).
Effect of acupuncture on ischaemic stroke in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a nationwide propensity score-matched study
Authors: Huang Chia-Yu , Huang Ming-Cheng , Liao Hou-Hsun , Lin Cheng-Li , Lee Yu-Chen , Zimmerman Gregory , Wu Mei-Yao , Yen Hung-Rong
Published: February 2024

Objective

To demonstrate that acupuncture is beneficial for decreasing the risk of ischaemic stroke in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Design

A propensity score-matched cohort study.

Setting

A nationwide population-based study.

Participants

Patients with RA diagnosed between 1 January 1997 and 31 December 2010, through the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan.

Interventions

Patients who were administered acupuncture therapy from the initial date of RA diagnosis to 31 December 2010 were included in the acupuncture cohort. Patients who did not receive acupuncture treatment during the same time interval constituted the no-acupuncture cohort.

Primary outcome measures

A Cox regression model was used to adjust for age, sex, comorbidities, and types of drugs used. We compared the subhazard ratios (SHRs) of ischaemic stroke between these two cohorts through competing-risks regression models.

Results

After 1:1 propensity score matching, a total of 23 226 patients with newly diagnosed RA were equally subgrouped into acupuncture cohort or no-acupuncture cohort according to their use of acupuncture. The basic characteristics of these patients were similar. A lower cumulative incidence of ischaemic stroke was found in the acupuncture cohort (log-rank test, p<0.001; immortal time (period from initial diagnosis of RA to index date) 1065 days; mean number of acupuncture visits 9.83. In the end, 341 patients in the acupuncture cohort (5.95 per 1000 person-years) and 605 patients in the no-acupuncture cohort (12.4 per 1000 person-years) experienced ischaemic stroke (adjusted SHR 0.57, 95% CI 0.50 to 0.65). The advantage of lowering ischaemic stroke incidence through acupuncture therapy in RA patients was independent of sex, age, types of drugs used, and comorbidities.

Conclusions

This study showed the beneficial effect of acupuncture in reducing the incidence of ischaemic stroke in patients with RA.
Sleep and motor learning in stroke (SMiLES): a longitudinal study investigating sleep-dependent consolidation of motor sequence learning in the context of recovery after stroke
Authors: Weightman Matthew , Robinson Barbara , Mitchell Morgan P , Garratt Emma , Teal Rachel , Rudgewick-Brown Andrew , Demeyere Nele , Fleming Melanie K , Johansen-Berg Heidi
Published: February 2024

Introduction

There is growing evidence that sleep is disrupted after stroke, with worse sleep relating to poorer motor outcomes. It is also widely acknowledged that consolidation of motor learning, a critical component of poststroke recovery, is sleep-dependent. However, whether the relationship between disrupted sleep and poor outcomes after stroke is related to direct interference of sleep-dependent motor consolidation processes, is currently unknown. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to understand whether measures of motor consolidation mediate the relationship between sleep and clinical motor outcomes post stroke.

Methods and analysis

We will conduct a longitudinal observational study of up to 150 participants diagnosed with stroke affecting the upper limb. Participants will be recruited and assessed within 7 days of their stroke and followed up at approximately 1 and 6 months. The primary objective of the study is to determine whether sleep in the subacute phase of recovery explains the variability in upper limb motor outcomes after stroke (over and above predicted recovery potential from the Predict Recovery Potential algorithm) and whether this relationship is dependent on consolidation of motor learning. We will also test whether motor consolidation mediates the relationship between sleep and whole-body clinical motor outcomes, whether motor consolidation is associated with specific electrophysiological sleep signals and sleep alterations during subacute recovery.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial has received both Health Research Authority, Health and Care Research Wales and National Research Ethics Service approval (IRAS: 304135; REC: 22/LO/0353). The results of this trial will help to enhance our understanding of the role of sleep in recovery of motor function after stroke and will be disseminated via presentations at scientific conferences, peer-reviewed publication, public engagement events, stakeholder organisations and other forms of media where appropriate.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT05746260, registered on 27 February 2023.
How do sepsis survivors experience life after sepsis? A Danish qualitative study exploring factors of importance
Authors: Schade Skov Camilla , Østervang Christina , Brabrand Mikkel , Lassen Annmarie Touborg , Nielsen Dorthe Susanne
Published: February 2024

Objective

Sepsis is a condition associated with high mortality and morbidity, and survivors often experience physical and psychological decline. Previous research has primarily focused on sepsis survivors discharged from the intensive care unit (ICU). We aimed to explore and understand the consequences of sepsis experienced by sepsis survivors in general.

Design

A qualitative study inspired by a phenomenological hermeneutical approach was conducted. Data were analysed using systematic text condensation.

Setting

Patients with sepsis were identified on admission to the emergency department and invited to an interview 3 months after discharge.

Participants

Sixteen sepsis survivors were purposively sampled and interviewed. Among these survivors, one patient was admitted to the ICU.

Results

Three main themes were derived from the analysis: new roles in life, cognitive impairment and anxiety. Although many survivors described a physical decline, they experienced psychological and cognitive impairments after sepsis as the most influential factors in daily life. The survivors frequently experienced fatigue, withdrawals from social activities and anxiety.

Conclusion

Sepsis survivors’ experiences appeared to overlap regardless of ICU admission or treatment at the general ward. Identifying patients with sepsis-related decline is important to understand and support overall patient processes and necessary in meeting specific needs of these patients after hospital discharge.
What are the factors that determine treatment choices in patients with kidney failure: a retrospective cohort study using data linkage of routinely collected data in Wales
Authors: Chess James , Roberts Gareth , McLaughlin Leah , Williams Gail , Noyes Jane
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To identify the factors that determine treatment choices following pre-dialysis education.

Design

Retrospective cohort study using data linkage with univariate and multivariate analyses using linked data.

Setting

Secondary care National Health Service Wales healthcare system.

Participants

All people in Wales over 18 years diagnosed with established kidney disease, who received pre-dialysis education between 1 January 2016 and 12 December 2018.

Main outcome measures

Patient choice of dialysis modality and any kidney replacement therapy started.

Results

Mean age was 67 years; n=1207 (60%) were male, n=878 (53%) had ≥3 comorbidities, n=805 (66%) had mobility problems, n=700 (57%) had pain symptoms, n=641 (52%) had anxiety or were depressed, n=1052 (61.6%) lived less than 30 min from their treatment centre, n=619 (50%) were on a spectrum of frail to extremely vulnerable. n=424 (25%) chose home dialysis, n=552 (32%) chose hospital-based dialysis, n=109 (6%) chose transplantation, n=231 (14%) chose maximum conservative management and n=391 (23%) were ‘undecided’. Main reasons for not choosing home dialysis were lack of motivation/low confidence in capacity to self-administer treatment, lack of home support and unsuitable housing. Patients who choose home dialysis were younger, had lower comorbidities, lower frailty and higher quality of life scores. Multivariate analysis found that age and frailty were predictors of choice, but we did not find any other demographic associations. Of patients who initially chose home dialysis, only n=150 (54%) started on home dialysis.

Conclusion

There is room for improvement in current pre-dialysis treatment pathways. Many patients remain undecided about dialysis choice, and others who may have chosen home dialysis are still likely to start on unit haemodialysis.
Prevalence of coeliac disease in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sotoodeh Adonis , Nguyen Hoang Madeleine , Hellgren Karin , Forss Anders
Published: February 2024

Background

There is some evidence of a higher prevalence of coeliac disease (CD) among patients with SLE than in the general population. However, the prevalence estimates vary substantially.

Objective

To investigate the prevalence of CD among patients with SLE through systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

We performed searches in the databases of Medline, Embase, Cochrane and Web of Science Core Collection between 1 January 1990 and 9 July 2023. A total of 2053 publications were rendered in the searches, of which 68 were reviewed in full text and 14 included in the analyses. Primary analysis estimated the pooled prevalence of biopsy-verified CD in patients with SLE. In the secondary analysis, the prevalence of serological markers indicative of CD was investigated. The quality of studies was appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tool. We conducted meta-regression analyses to investigate associations between the prevalence of CD in individuals with SLE and publication year, study population size, CD prevalence in the general population, proportion of females and quality assessment score.

Results

A total of 14 studies met the inclusion criteria, of which 11 were included in the primary analysis of biopsy-verified CD. Among 1238 patients with SLE, 14 had CD. The weighted pooled prevalence of CD was 0.7% (95% CI 0.0 to 1.8). The weighted pooled prevalence of CD serological markers in 1063 patients with SLE was 3.7% (95% CI 1.4 to 6.7). In meta-regression analyses, no associations between CD prevalence and study characteristics, demographics and quality assessment scores were found.

Conclusions

In this meta-analysis, we found a weighted pooled prevalence of biopsy-verified CD in patients with SLE comparable with the prevalence in the general population. Our findings do not support routine screening for CD in patients with SLE. However, individual screening could be considered in cases of clinical suspicion and additional risk factors for CD.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022339594.