bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
STT3B promotes porcine epidemic diarrhea virus replication by regulating N-glycosylation of PEDV S protein
Authors: Zhu Huixin , Lou Jinxiu , Yang Zhen , Bai Juan , Jiang Ping , Wang Xianwei , Liu Xing 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), a highly pathogenic enteric coronavirus, has caused significant economic losses worldwide in recent years. The PEDV spike (S) protein has been reported to undergo extensive N-glycosylation, suggesting that glycosylation plays a crucial role in PEDV replication. In this study, we demonstrated that the N-glycosylation pathway promotes PEDV replication by facilitating the glycosylation of the S protein. First, we observed that pharmacological inhibition of host N-glycosylation using specific inhibitors significantly reduces viral replication. Furthermore, genetic ablation of STT3A or STT3B, the catalytically active subunits of the oligosaccharyltransferase (OST) complex, revealed that the STT3B-OST complex, but not STT3A, is preferentially required for PEDV replication. Notably, we showed that the N-glycosylation of the PEDV S protein depends on the oligosaccharyltransferase activity of STT3B. Together, the study demonstrated the critical role of the N-glycosylation pathway in PEDV replication by elucidating the relationship between the N-glycosylation of the PEDV S protein and STT3B, thereby presenting a potential new target for the prevention and control of PEDV.

IMPORTANCE
The highly N-glycosylated spike protein of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) is a multifunctional protein that plays a crucial role in the viral replication cycle. In this study, using pharmacological inhibitors, we demonstrated the importance of the N-glycosylation pathway in PEDV replication. Genetic analysis revealed that STT3B, one of the catalytically active subunits of the oligosaccharyltransferase complex, promotes viral proliferation by regulating the N-glycosylation of the PEDV spike protein. Our findings enhance the understanding of the role of the N-glycosylation pathway in viral infection and identify STT3B as a potential therapeutic target for controlling PEDV infection.
Impact of the restrictive technique on outcomes in Baerveldt-350 implant surgery
Authors: Segura-Duch Gloria , Oliver-Gutierrez David , Duch Susana , Schilt Mar , Arciniegas-Perasso Carlos 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundDifferent aqueous restrictive manoeuvres in non-valved devices affect intraocular pressure (IOP) levels in the first postoperative month. This study compares tube ligature (TL) alone to TL plus rip cord stent (TLS) on the efficacy of the Baerveldt 350.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective consecutive case-series observational study to assess efficacy by measuring IOP, success rates and the reduction of antiglaucoma medication usage over 3 years.ResultsThe study included 43 eyes in the TL group and 29 in the TLS group. Initial IOPs were 26.67 mm Hg for TL and 28.21 mm Hg for TLS. After 1 year, IOP decreased to 13.03 mm Hg and 12.11 mm Hg, respectively. Over 3 years, TLS consistently achieved greater reductions in IOP compared with TL, with significant differences of 3.56 mm Hg in the second year (p=0.01) and 3.34 mm Hg in the third year (p=0.01). Mean antiglaucoma medication use decreased from 3.03 (SD 1.29) to 0.72 (SD 0.47) over 3 years, representing a 76.24% reduction, with no differences between the TL and TLS groups. Failure rate at 1 year was significantly lower for TLS under the success criteria of IOP=(6–18) mm Hg (TL: 33.33%, TLS: 7.14%, p=0.02). Rates of transient hypotension and hypertensive phase were higher in the TL group: 93.02% vs 34.48% (p<0.001) and 58.14% vs 32.14% (χ²=4.59, p=0.03), respectively.ConclusionAdding the rip cord stent to the Baerveldt implant significantly enhances long-term IOP control and reduces failure rates compared with TL alone. The lower incidence of hypertensive phases could be due to sequential tube opening. Small sample size, lack of randomisation and follow-up discrepancies may introduce bias and limit statistical power, highlighting the need for further research to confirm these conclusions.
Mortality and cancer incidence in the UK glass reinforced plastics manufacturing industry: a cohort study
Authors: Mueller William , Darnton Lucy , Christensen Mette Wulf , Brooker Finlay , Kolstad Henrik A , McElvenny Damien Martin 
Published: February 2025

Objectives
According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, styrene is probably carcinogenic for lymphohaematopoietic neoplasms, with insufficient evidence for other cancer sites. We compared mortality and cancer incidence (for the first time) in a UK cohort occupationally exposed to high levels of styrene to that of the general population of England and Wales.

Methods
The follow-up for mortality ran from 1969 to 2022, while the follow-up for cancer incidence ran from 1971 to 2020. Standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) and standardised incidence ratios (SIRs) were calculated for cancer and non-cancer outcomes. Additional analyses compared mortality and cancer incidence with respect to the median age at and time since first exposure.

Results
A total of 1319 males contributed 53 687 person-years of follow-up in the all-cause mortality analysis. Mortality analyses did not indicate any clear increased risks. There was an indication of higher mortality of cancers of the trachea, bronchus or lung (SMR=1.30 (95% CI 0.99 to 1.70)). Mortality from lymphatic and haematopoietic neoplasms was elevated in those first exposed younger than 25 years of age (SMR=2.20 (95% CI 1.12 to 3.92)). The SIR analysis suggested reduced cancer incidence for all malignant neoplasms combined (SIR=0.85 (95% CI 0.76 to 0.96)). The incidence of lymphatic and haematopoietic neoplasms, especially myeloid proliferations and neoplasms, was elevated in those first exposed before 25 years old.

Conclusions
This study provides some limited evidence in support of styrene being a cause of lymphohaematopoietic, particularly myeloid neoplasms and lung cancers. This cohort is contributing to an ongoing international study to help clarify these associations.
GSDMD Deficiency Attenuates the Development of Ascending Aortic Dissections in a Novel Mouse Model
Authors: Javed Muhammad J. , Howard Rachael M. , Li Hua , Carrasco Laura , Dirain Marvin L.S. , Su Gang , Cai Guoshuai , Upchurch Gilbert R. , Jiang Zhihua 
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:
Mechanisms driving the development of type A aortic dissection (TAD) are currently poorly understood, and animal models of spontaneous TAD are limited. In the present study, we developed a novel mouse TAD model and evaluated the role of GSDMD (gasdermin D) in TAD development.

METHODS:
TADs were created by treating the ascending aorta of adult C57BL/6J mice with Act E (active elastase) and β-aminopropionitrile. The temporal progress of the TAD pathology was rigorously characterized by histological evaluation and scanning electron microscopy, while potential mechanisms were explored using bulk RNA sequencing of specimens collected at multiple time points. With this novel TAD model, we conducted additional experiments to investigate the impact of GSDMD deficiency on TAD formation.

RESULTS:
Ascending aortas challenged with Act E and β-aminopropionitrile developed pathology featuring the early onset of intimomedial tears (complete penetration) and intramural hematomas, followed by progressive medial loss and aortic dilation. Ingenuity pathway analysis and functional annotation of differentially expressed genes suggested that a unique inflammatory microenvironment, rather than general inflammation, promotes the onset of TADs by specifically recruiting neutrophils to the aortic wall. At later stages, T cell–mediated immune injury emerged as the primary driver of pathology. Gsdmd deficiency attenuated medial loss, adventitial fibrosis, and dilation of TADs. This protective effect correlated with a reduced cell death and decreased T-cell infiltration in TADs. Notably, cleaved GSDMD was detected in human TADs but was absent in healthy aortas.

CONCLUSIONS:
A novel mouse TAD model was developed, specifically targeting the ascending aorta. This model generates a unique microenvironment that activates specific immune cell subsets, driving the onset and subsequent remodeling of TADs. Consistently, Gsdmd deficiency mitigates TAD development, likely by modulating cell death and T-cell responses. This model provides a valuable tool for studying immune injury mechanisms in TAD pathogenesis.
‘I’m Born Nxde, and You Are the Pervert’
Authors: Francistyová Bianka , Šašalová Veronika 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
This paper analyses the music video Nxde by (G)I-DLE, exploring its portrayal of femininity in the Korean music industry. It addresses the perpetuation of the beauty myth and objectification, symbolised by Marilyn Monroe as the ideal of beauty and innocence. Despite little change in media practices, the video challenges narrow perceptions of women beyond pure or vulgar binaries. It partially compares Nxde to the empowering video Tomboy emphasising the critique of the music industry’s perpetuation of beauty myths and sexualisation of artists. The video also highlights the impact on employment and education of discrimination based on appearance, contributing to societal inequality. Nxde confronts media audiences, exposing their objectifying tendencies and the commodification of desires. It acknowledges the need for systemic change and questions the authenticity of feminist voices within a commercialised industry that reproduces criticised symbols. While navigating the complexities of the Korean music industry, the video aims to shed light on social and gender issues within its constraints.
Astragalus Polysaccharide Regulates Epithelial-mesenchymal Transition in HepG2 Liver Cancer Cells by Inhibiting NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation
Authors: Sui Hongtao , Yang Hai , Huang Zongyuan , Zhang Caihua 
Published: February 2025

Background Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is crucial in liver cancer progression. Developing novel medicines to disrupt the progression of EMT might be a novel approach in managing liver cancer. Purpose This study investigates the protective role of Astragalus polysaccharide (APS), a bioactive compound derived from Astragalus membranaceus, in modulating EMT in HepG2 liver cancer cells. Methods The effects of APS on EMT progression were evaluated by assessing cell viability, proliferation, invasion, migration, cell cycle, and apoptosis in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, the involvement of the NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in this process was explored. Results Results: APS treatment significantly inhibited the viability, proliferation, invasion, and migration of HepG2 cells while promoting cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Notably, APS reduced the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome components, including NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein, and caspase-1, while decreasing the levels of inflammatory cytokines. In addition, the activator Nigericin dampened the effect of APS by partially rescuing the activity of NLRP3. Specifically, Nigericin promoted the development of EMT inhibited by APS and exacerbated the malignant transformation of HepG2 cells improved by APS. Conclusion Our findings demonstrated the function of APS in liver cancer and the process by which APS inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome activation to protect the EMT of HepG2 cells. Our results showed that by targeting NLRP3, the application of APS appears to be a viable tactic for preventing the progression of liver cancer.
Early versus delayed inguinal hernia repair in preterm infants: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Provinciatto Henrique , Barbosa Moreira Marcus Vinicius , de Freitas Lucas Rezende , Araujo Júnior Edward 
Published: February 2025

Background We aimed to perform a systematic review and updated meta-analysis evaluating the optimal timing for repairing inguinal hernia in preterm infants. Methods Cochrane Central, Embase, and PubMed were searched from inception to April 2024 for studies comparing early versus delayed repair of inguinal hernia in preterm infants, without applying filters or language limitations. We utilized the RStudio version 4.2.2 to compute risk ratios with random effects for our prespecified outcomes. Results In our study, which encompassed 1207 patients from eight studies, 676 (56%) preterm patients underwent early repair for inguinal hernia. Although we found no significant association between early repair and incarceration (risk ratio, 1.14; 95% Confidence Intervals, 0.76–1.70; p = 0.52; I2 = 19%), there was an increased risk of recurrence with early repair in comparison with delayed management (risk ratio, 3.11; 95% Confidence Intervals, 1.17–8.25; p = 0.02; I2 = 0%). Conclusion Our findings suggest postponing the repair of inguinal hernia in preterm infants until after hospitalization to avoid the potential increased risk of recurrence and respiratory complications associated with early repair.
Improving research transparency with individualized report cards: A feasibility study in clinical trials at a large university medical center
Authors: Franzen Delwen L. , Salholz-Hillel Maia , Müller-Ohlraun Stephanie , Strech Daniel 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Research transparency is crucial for ensuring the relevance, integrity, and reliability of scientific findings. However, previous work indicates room for improvement across transparency practices. The primary objective of this study was to develop an extensible tool to provide individualized feedback and guidance for improved transparency across phases of a study. Our secondary objective was to assess the feasibility of implementing this tool to improve transparency in clinical trials.

Methods
We developed study-level “report cards” that combine tailored feedback and guidance to investigators across several transparency practices, including prospective registration, availability of summary results, and open access publication. The report cards were generated through an automated pipeline for scalability. We also developed an infosheet to summarize relevant laws, guidelines, and resources relating to transparency. To assess the feasibility of using these tools to improve transparency, we conducted a single-arm intervention study at Berlin’s university medical center, the Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin. Investigators (n = 92) of 155 clinical trials were sent individualized report cards and the infosheet, and surveyed to assess their perceived usefulness. We also evaluated included trials for improvements in transparency following the intervention.

Results
Survey responses indicated general appreciation for the report cards and infosheet, with a majority of participants finding them helpful to build awareness of the transparency of their trial and transparency requirements. However, improvement on transparency practices was minimal and largely limited to linking publications in registries. Investigators also commented on various challenges associated with implementing transparency, including a lack of clarity around best practices and institutional hurdles.

Conclusions
This study demonstrates the potential of developing and using tools, such as report cards, to provide individualized feedback at scale to investigators on the transparency of their study. While these tools were positively received by investigators, the limited improvement in transparency practices suggests that awareness alone is likely not sufficient to drive improvement. Future research and implementation efforts may adapt the tools to further practices or research areas, and explore integrated approaches that combine the report cards with incentives and institutional support to effectively strengthen transparency in research.
Exploring effective patient feedback methods for eHealth in general practice
Authors: Nasori Mana , Vossen Marianne Mak-van der , Holtrop Marije , Bont Jettie 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
The use of patient feedback is essential for identifying areas for improvement and tailoring care to the needs of patients, particularly in the context of eHealth, which has increased in adoption due to the pandemic. However, challenges persist in collecting feedback from vulnerable groups, those with severe conditions, or language barriers. Furthermore, concerns exist about the credibility and validity of the feedback received. This study aims to explore various possible forms that general practitioners (GPs) could use to collect patient feedback on eHealth applications in their daily practice.

Methods
A Participatory Research (PR) was conducted involving an advisory group, patients, GPs and medical receptionists. The advisory group consisting of GPs, a board member, patient representatives and digital care manager affiliated with the primary care organisation ‘Regionale Organisatie Huisartsen Amsterdam’ (ROHA). The group provided input throughout the research process from the setup, data collection and interpretation to the finalization phase. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 patients, 8 GPs and 2 medical receptionists. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling. Interviews were coded using Thematic Analysis.

Results
Four themes were considered important. First, timing of feedback. Gathering instant feedback immediately after digital interactions was considered important. Secondly, the feedback procedure, whereby feedback should be given through the same communication channel as was used for the doctor-patient contact was valued. Also, participants preferred short and specific surveys, in which they can remain anonymous. Thirdly, for the feedback content some key feedback topics included general experiences, quality of care and technical aspects. The last theme was advertisement. Overall, patients do not want to burden their GP and thus tend to only give feedback if initiated by their GP. GPs themselves pointed out to have limited time for collecting feedback from patients due to their workload.

Conclusion
GPs can optimize the feedback collection process by selecting targeted questions and integrating them into existing eHealth applications, thereby investing minimal time from GPs and patients. It is recommended to include automatic selected questions at the end of e-consultations. This integrated approach allows efficient feedback collection without burdening GPs.
Norwegian kidney biopsy biobank (NorKiBB): organization, baseline characteristics, and generalizability of a low-cost national biobank
Authors: Øvrehus Marius Altern , Asbjørn Knut , Langlo Rise , Leh Sabine , Eikrem Øystein , Romundstad Solfrid , Aksnes Håvard , Manner Ingjerd Wangensteen , Aalborg Christian , Solbu Marit D. , Gøransson Lasse G. , Marti Hans-Peter , Shlipak Michael G. , Ix Joachim H. , Hallan Stein I. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Biobanks that hold blood, urine and kidney tissue are key for translational nephrology research but are few and have limited availability. We describe the organization, baseline characteristics, and generalizability of a low-cost national biobank.

Materials and methods
Eight Norwegian hospitals participated in this multi-center, prospective cohort study and biobank initiative. Patients referred for routine clinical native kidney biopsies were eligible for inclusion, starting September 2020. Extensive information on medical history and risk factors were collected into an encrypted on-line database by the treating nephrologist. A comprehensive standardized panel of blood and urine tests were analyzed in the clinical routine and registered along with the full histology report. Extra urine and blood samples were collected, aliquoted and prepared locally within two hours, frozen at -80 C, and later sent to a central government-funded biorepository together with remaining kidney biopsy material.

Results
By September 2023, a total of 633 patients were included out of 1050 eligible patients. Mean age was 52.6 years (SD 18.7), 384 (61%) were men, and participants displayed a wide spectrum of kidney disease with mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 53 mL/min/1.73m2. The most frequent biopsy indications were progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD) of unknown cause, acute kidney disease, and isolated hematuria/proteinuria. The most frequent diagnoses were IgA nephropathy (21%), arterionephrosclerosis (13%), and diabetes nephropathy (9%). Biopsy indications and diagnoses were similar to the spectrum typically seen in Norway and other western countries, and similar population level kidney health measures were demonstrated for Norway, United Kingdom, and USA.

Discussion
We demonstrate the feasibility of establishing a large national kidney biopsy biobank across a variety of clinical and histopathologic diagnoses. Blood and urine were stored, accompanied by kidney tissue, at a moderate cost due to a combination of a dedicated nephrology workforce, routine clinical care, and established biobank facilities.
Potential effect of the number and type of birth on udder, milk yield, milk composition, ovarian follicles, and certain blood parameters in Baladi goat
Authors: Ali Montaser Elsayed , Mohamed Ragab Hassan , Hussein Hassan A. , Mahmoud Abdellah Hassan , Rabee Alaa Emara , Zakaria Asem Mohammed 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Multifetal births are the most significant economic characteristic in goats. Therefore, physiologically, exploring the influence of their birth frequency on genital function and milk production is vital. The present study was carried out to monitor the potential effect of the number and type of birth on udder, milk yield, milk composition, ovarian follicles, and certain blood parameters in dam's Baladi goats during the postpartum period. On the birth day, fifty Baladi goat dams were separated into five equal groups based on the number of births: (G1) female kids and (G2) male kids. In addition to gender, there are three categories: (G3) single kids, (G4) twin kids, and (G5) triple kids. All of the offspring looked to be in good health, moving about regularly, and displaying no symptoms of peripartum pregnancy problems.

Results
The data revealed that the udder width of dams in G4 and G5 was significantly higher (p < 0.033) than G3, while the udder circumference was increased in the G5. Furthermore, no significant differences were observed in the udder measurements between G1 and G2. Gender of birth showed a significant higher in large follicle ≤ 5 mm (p < 0.005), medium follicle (p < 0.004), and small follicle ≥ 3 mm (p < 0.004) in the G2 compared to the G1. Also, the follicular population (p < 0.042) of the medium and the diameter follicle (p < 0.038) of the small ≥ 3 mm were significantly higher in the G5 compared to the G3. The Pearson correlation (r) was determined to increase the milk yield with an increase in udder length, udder width, and udder circumference. Also, there was a positive correlation among the udder length with protein, salt, solids not fat, and total solids. A negative correlation was found among udder width and udder circumference with fat, lactose, solids not fat, and total solids. There was a negative correlation between the ultrasonographic examination of ovarian follicles and milk yield.

Conclusions
This study may provide valuable information regarding the association of udder parameters and ovarian population with milk yield and its composition as an indicator of milk production in goat dams based on gender and number of births.