bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Curvature-guided depletion stabilizes Kagome superlattices of nanocrystals
Authors: Wan Siyu , Xia Xiuyang , Gao Yutong , Zhang Heyang , Zhang Zhebin , Wu Fangyue , Wu Xuesong , Yang Dong , Li Tongtao , Li Jianfeng , Ni Ran , Dong Angang
Published: February 2025

Shape-anisotropic nanocrystals and patchy particles have been explored to construct complex superstructures, but most studies have focused on convex shapes. We report that nonconvex, dumbbell-shaped nanocrystals (nanodumbbells) exhibit globally interlocking self-assembly behaviors governed by curvature-guided depletion interactions. By tailoring the local curvature of nanodumbbells, we can precisely and flexibly adjust particle bonding directionality, a level of control rarely achievable with conventional convex building blocks. These nanodumbbells can undergo long-range ordered assembly into various intricate two-dimensional superlattices, including the chiral Kagome lattice. Theoretical calculations reveal that the Kagome lattice is a thermodynamically stable phase, with depletion interactions playing a crucial role in stabilizing these non–close-packed structures. The emergence of Kagome lattices and other unusual structures highlights the vast potential of nonconvex nanocrystals for creating sophisticated architectures.
Turning down the outrage
Outraged: Why We Fight About Morality and Politics and How to Find Common Ground
Kurt Gray
Pantheon, 2025. 368 pp.
Authors: Laurent Sean M.
Published: February 2025

A moral psychologist offers a framework for bridging divides
Hot and cold hydrogel with still water
Authors: Yu Zhaohan , Lin Shaoting
Published: February 2025

Carbon chains immobilize water molecules, making a hydrogel elastic across temperatures
In Other Journals
Authors: Simonti Corinne , Smith Jesse , Kelly Priscilla N. , Ash Caroline , Maroso Mattia , Stajic Jelena , Wible Brad
Published: February 2025

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
Fate of millions of research animals at stake in NIH lawsuit
Authors: Wadman Meredith
Published: February 2025

Rodent and monkey facilities imperiled by Trump plan to slash overhead payments to research institutions
Single-cell analysis of aplastic anemia reveals a convergence of NK and NK-like CD8
+
T cells with a disease-associated TCR signature
Authors: Lundgren Sofie , Huuhtanen Jani , Keränen Mikko , Feng Xingmin , Patel Bhavisha A. , Ryland Georgina L. , Fox Lucy C. , Bravo-Perez Carlos , Clemente Michael , Kerr Cassandra , Walldin Gunilla , Dufva Olli , Zaimoku Yoshitaka , Tuononen Tiina , Myllymäki Mikko , Ebeling Freja , Jokinen Emmi , Heinonen Markus , Kasanen Tiina , Klievink Jay , Lähteenmäki Hanna , Jaatinen Taina , Kytölä Sari , Siitonen Sanna , Dulau-Florea Alina , Braylan Raul , Heinäniemi Merja , Nakao Shinji , Hellström-Lindberg Eva , Maciejewski Jaroslaw P. , Blombery Piers , Young Neal S. , Lähdesmäki Harri , Mustjoki Satu
Published: February 2025

Immune aplastic anemia (AA) is a life-threatening bone marrow failure disorder driven by an autoimmune T cell attack against hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). However, the exact autoantigen targets and role of other immune cells in the pathogenesis of AA are unknown. Here, we analyzed a cohort of 218 patients with AA using single-cell RNA and T cell receptor (TCR) αβ sequencing, TCRβ sequencing, flow cytometry, and plasma cytokine profiling. We identified natural killer (NK) cells and CD8
+
terminally differentiated effector T (T
EMRA
) cells expressing NK receptors with AA-associated TCRβ motifs as the most dysregulated immune cell populations in AA bone marrow. Functional coculture experiments using primary HSPCs and immune cells showed that NK cells cannot kill HSPCs alone but may sensitize HSPCs to CD8
+
T cell–mediated killing through production of interferons. Furthermore, HSPCs induced activation of T cell clones with CD8
+
T
EMRA
NK-like phenotype in coculture. Our results reveal a convergent phenotype of innate and adaptive immune cells that may drive AA.
An electroadhesive hydrogel interface prolongs porcine gastrointestinal mucosal theranostics
Authors: Ying Binbin , Nan Kewang , Zhu Qing , Khuu Tom , Ro Hana , Qin Sophia , Wang Shubing , Jiang Karen , Chen Yonglin , Bao Guangyu , Jenkins Josh , Pettinari Andrew , Kuosmanen Johannes , Ishida Keiko , Fabian Niora , Lopes Aaron , Codreanu Flavia , Morimoto Joshua , Li Jason , Hayward Alison , Langer Robert , Traverso Giovanni
Published: February 2025

Establishing a robust and intimate mucosal interface that allows medical devices to remain within lumen-confined organs for extended periods has valuable applications, particularly for gastrointestinal theranostics. Here, we report the development of an electroadhesive hydrogel interface for robust and prolonged mucosal retention after electrical activation (e-GLUE). The e-GLUE device is composed of cationic polymers interpenetrated within a tough hydrogel matrix. An e-GLUE electrode design eliminated the need for invasive submucosal placement of ground electrodes for electrical stimulation during endoscopic delivery. With an electrical stimulation treatment of about 1 minute, the cationic polymers diffuse and interact with polyanionic proteins that have a relatively slow cellular turnover rate in the deep mucosal tissue. This mucosal adhesion mechanism increased the adhesion energy of hydrogels on the mucosa by up to 30-fold and enabled in vivo gastric retention of e-GLUE devices in a pig stomach for up to 30 days. The adhesion strength was modulated by polycationic chain length, electrical stimulation time, gel thickness, cross-linking density, voltage amplitude, polycation concentration, and perimeter-to-area ratio of the electrode assembly. In porcine studies, e-GLUE demonstrated rapid mucosal adhesion in the presence of luminal fluid and mucus exposure. In proof-of-concept studies, we demonstrated e-GLUE applications for mucosal hemostasis, sustained local delivery of therapeutics, and intimate biosensing in the gastrointestinal tract, which is an ongoing clinical challenge for commercially available alternatives, such as endoclips and mucoadhesive. The e-GLUE platform could enable theranostic applications across a range of digestive diseases, including recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding and inflammatory bowel disease.
A gut
Eggerthella lenta
–derived metabolite impairs neutrophil function to aggravate bacterial lung infection
Authors: Wang Le-Le , Shen Xiyue , Xie Yingzhou , Ge Ai , Lu Haiwen , Gu Shuyi , Kong Lingxin , Narayana Jayanth Kumar , Mattner Jochen , Chotirmall Sanjay H. , Xu Jin-Fu
Published: February 2025

The composition of the gut microbiota in patients with bronchiectasis has been proven to be distinct from that of healthy individuals, and this disrupted gut microbiota can exacerbate lung infections. However, the responsible microbes and mechanisms in the “gut-lung” axis in bronchiectasis remain unknown. Here, we report that
Eggerthella lenta
was enriched in the gut, and taurine ursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) was enriched in both the guts and sera of patients with bronchiectasis, with both being associated with disease severity. Fecal microbiota transfer from patients with bronchiectasis as well as administration of
E. lenta
independently exacerbated pulmonary
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
infections in murine models.
E. lenta
–associated TUDCA bound adenosine monophosphate–activated protein kinase (AMPK) within neutrophils and interfered with the interaction between liver kinase B1 and AMPK, with a consequential decrease in AMPK phosphorylation. This ultimately reduced ATP production in neutrophils, inhibited their function, and compromised
P. aeruginosa
elimination from the lung, aggravating tissue injury. Metformin treatment improved disease severity and outcome in the mouse models. In sum, the gut bacterium
E. lenta
raises the stakes of bacterial lung infection because it causes dysfunction of neutrophils circulated from serum to lung via the metabolite TUDCA. Interventions targeting
E. lenta
or AMPK phosphorylation may serve as adjunctive strategies to complement existing approaches for managing chronic pulmonary infection in bronchiectasis and other chronic respiratory disease states.
Inhibition of pneumococcal growth and biofilm formation by human isolates of
Streptococcus mitis
and
Streptococcus oralis
Authors: Borralho João , Handem Sara , Lança João , Ferreira Bárbara , Candeias Catarina , Henriques Adriano O. , Hiller N. Luisa , Valente Carina , Sá-Leão Raquel
Published: February 2025

In a world facing the unprecedented threat of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, targeted approaches to control colonization and prevent disease caused by common pathobionts offer a promising solution.
Streptococcus pneumoniae
(pneumococcus) is a leading cause of infections worldwide, affecting both children and adults despite available antimicrobials and vaccines. Colonization, which occurs in the form of a biofilm in the upper respiratory tract, is frequent and a prerequisite for disease and transmission. The use of live bacterial strains as biotherapeutics for infectious diseases is actively being explored. Here, we investigated the potential of commensal streptococci to control
S. pneumoniae
. Screening of over 300 human isolates led to the identification of seven strains (one
Streptococcus oralis
and six
Streptococcus mitis
, designated A22 to G22) with inhibitory activity against
S. pneumoniae
of multiple serotypes and genotypes. Characterization of A22 to G22 cell-free supernatants indicated the involvement of secreted proteins or peptides in the inhibitory effect of all
S. mitis
isolates. Genome analyses revealed the presence of 64 bacteriocin loci, encoding 70 putative bacteriocins, several of which are novel and absent or rare in over 7,000 publicly available pneumococcal genomes. Deletion mutants indicated that bacteriocins partially or completely explained the anti-pneumococcal activity of the commensal strains. Importantly, strains A22 to G22 were further able to prevent and disrupt pneumococcal biofilms, a proxy for nasopharyngeal colonization. These results highlight the intricacy of the interactions among nasopharyngeal colonizers and support the potential of strains A22 to G22 to be used as live biotherapeutics, alone or in combination, to control
S. pneumoniae
colonization.

IMPORTANCE

Streptococcus pneumoniae
(pneumococcus) infections remain a major public health issue despite the use of vaccines and antibiotics. Pneumococci asymptomatically colonize the human upper respiratory tract, a niche shared with several commensal
Streptococcus
species. Competition for space and nutrients among species sharing the same niche is well documented and tends to be more intense among closely related species. Based on this rationale, a screening of several commensal streptococci isolated from the human upper respiratory tract led to the identification of strains of
Streptococcus mitis
and
Streptococcus oralis
capable of inhibiting most pneumococcal strains, across diverse serotypes and genotypes. This inhibition was partially or wholly linked to the expression of novel bacteriocins. The selected
S. mitis
and
S. oralis
strains significantly disrupted pneumococcal biofilms, indicating a potential for using commensals as biotherapeutics to control pneumococcal colonization, a key step in preventing disease and transmission.
Shifts in surface microbiota after cleaning and disinfection in broiler processing plants: incomplete biofilm eradication revealed by robotic high-throughput screening
Authors: Reiche Thorben , Hageskal Gunhild , Mares Mihai , Hoel Sunniva , Tøndervik Anne , Heggeset Tonje Marita Bjerkan , Haugen Tone , Sperstad Sigri Bakken , Trøen Hanne Hein , Bjørkøy Solfrid , Jakobsen Anita Nordeng
Published: February 2025

Broiler processing environments are a source of spoilage bacteria and potential pathogens. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of cleaning and disinfection (C&D) on bacterial load and diversity in two broiler processing plants and to determine the efficacy of industry-standard disinfectants (DIs). C&D significantly reduced average bacterial loads on surfaces from 3.7 to 1.8 log CFU/cm
2
in Plant A and from 7.0 to 3.8 log CFU/cm
2
in Plant B (
P
< 0.001). Metataxonomics revealed that
Acinetobacter
and an unknown Enterobacteriaceae genus dominated before C&D in Plants A and B, respectively, while
Pseudomonas
was predominant after C&D in both plants. Bacterial diversity only declined significantly after C&D in Plant B. Bacterial loads also declined across hygienic zones along the broiler processing line in Plant A. During slaughter,
Staphylococcus
,
Lactobacillus
, and
Anoxybacillus
dominated, and bacterial loads were significantly higher compared with post-slaughter zones, which were dominated by
Pseudomonas
. Culture-dependent analyses confirmed the presence of
Pseudomonas
spp. and also bacteria affecting food safety, including
Listeria monocytogenes
,
Escherichia coli
,
Yersinia enterocolitica
,
Acinetobacter baumannii
, and
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
. A selection of these was tested against DIs using robotic high-throughput screening. At the recommended user concentrations, DIs effectively inhibited planktonic bacteria and significantly reduced mono-species biofilms. However, none of the DIs completely eradicated all biofilms at these concentrations, with survival rates ranging from 7% to 53%, depending on the DI. In conclusion, C&D effectively reduces the bacterial burden and reshapes the bacterial microbiota with incomplete biofilm eradication by commercial DIs.

IMPORTANCE

Broiler meat continues to be involved in bacterial disease outbreaks. The surface microbiota in broiler processing environments can be a source of contaminating bacteria. Our study highlights the importance of effective C&D routines since potential pathogens and spoilage bacteria are found in these environments. Furthermore, the study provides evidence of biofilms surviving high concentrations of industry-standard DIs. This emphasizes the importance of additional measures to facilitate biofilm removal, such as mechanical cleaning, but also suggests that there is a need for DIs with stronger biofilm eradication capabilities. Ultimately, it is important to understand and continuously improve the state of hygiene in broiler processing plants to mitigate the risk of foodborne disease outbreaks.
SFTSV NSs interacts with AGO2 to regulate the RNAi pathway for viral replication
Authors: Javaid Nasir , Jang Tae-Won , Fu Yuting , Choi Younho
Published: February 2025

RNA interference (RNAi) is a posttranscriptional gene silencing mechanism acting as an antiviral defense in eukaryotes. During viral replication, intermediate double-stranded RNAs are processed into virus-derived small interfering RNAs (vsiRNAs) by the host enzyme, DICER. These vsiRNAs are incorporated into the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC), where AGO2 cleaves viral genomic RNAs. However, viruses have evolved mechanisms to suppress this pathway. Here, we report that the nonstructural protein (NSs) of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) interacts with RISC to suppress the RNAi pathway. NSs forms a ternary complex by interacting with both DICER and AGO2 of the RNAi pathway. The interaction between NSs and DICER, facilitated by the two RNase III domains of DICER, is disrupted in the absence of AGO2 or the DICER-interacting domain (PIWI) of AGO2, indicating a direct interaction between NSs and AGO2. Functional assays using shRNA- and siRNA-mediated silencing of GFP signal, along with co-localization studies, demonstrated that NSs competes with siRNA to interact with AGO2, thereby abolishing RNAi activity. Mutational analysis identified an NSs-A26 mutant that no longer interacts with AGO2 and is unable to suppress RNAi activity, suggesting that NSs acts as a viral suppressor of RNAi (VSR) for SFTSV. Viral infection led to the generation of vsiRNA and showed higher replication in
AGO2
-/-
cells compared to wild-type (WT) cells, confirming the antiviral role of the RNAi pathway against SFTSV infection. These data suggest that the NSs–AGO2 interaction suppresses RNAi, counteracting the antiviral RNAi pathway, thereby facilitating SFTSV infection and pathogenesis.

IMPORTANCE

RNA interference (RNAi) is the main antiviral defense pathway in plants and insects but is not predominant in mammals. While RNAi’s role in countering severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) infection has been studied in ticks, its role in humans is unknown. The SFTSV nonstructural protein (NSs) forms inclusion bodies (IBs) in the host, sequestering multiple antiviral proteins and facilitating pathogenesis, contributing to SFTSV’s high mortality rate. Our study found that SFTSV NSs directly interacts with AGO2, a key RNAi protein, hindering its function. A novel NSs mutant failed to interact with AGO2 and lost its RNAi suppression ability, highlighting NSs as a viral suppressor of RNAi (VSR). Infection studies confirmed the RNAi pathway’s critical role in combating SFTSV infection. This study demonstrates NSs’s role in viral infection and suggests potential therapeutic approaches.
Draft genome sequences of five glacial fungi from Styx Glacier, Antarctica
Authors: Kim Ji Seon , Seo Chang Wan , Lim Young Woon
Published: February 2025

We generated four high-quality draft genomes of fungi isolated from Styx Glacier, Antarctica. The genome announcement of these fungal strains offers insights into their evolution and adaptation to extreme glacial environments, as well as their potential biotechnological applications.
Analysis of co-occurrence of type II toxin–antitoxin systems and antibiotic resistance determinants in
Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Bukowski Michał , Banasik Michał , Chlebicka Kinga , Bednarczyk Katarzyna , Bonar Emilia , Sokołowska Dominika , Żądło Tomasz , Dubin Grzegorz , Władyka Benedykt
Published: February 2025

Toxin–antitoxin (TA) systems consist of toxic proteins and their inhibitors, and were originally shown to ensure plasmid maintenance in bacterial populations. Over time, however, TA systems have also been identified on bacterial chromosomes, raising questions about their roles unrelated to plasmid stability. Among the eight currently recognized types of TA systems, type II has been the most extensively investigated. Type II systems are often found in pathogenic bacterial species, including staphylococci.
Staphylococcus aureus
, a notorious human pathogen, harbors multiple type II TA systems, both plasmid- and chromosome-encoded, while their potential relation to virulence remains to be addressed. Here, we investigate the co-occurrence of TA systems and antibiotic resistance (AR) determinants in
S. aureus
, focusing on the potential negative impact of type II toxin RNases on antibiotic resistance. We considered both well-characterized and newly characterized TA loci of
S. aureus
. Our findings demonstrate a relationship between TA systems and AR determinants, wherein TA systems negatively affect antibiotic resistance. Due to substantial selective pressure, the migration of TA systems from plasmids to chromosomes results in their inactivation. This observation may be an important factor shaping the spread and evolution of both TA systems and AR determinants in bacteria. We exemplify this phenomenon in detail using the well-known PemIK-Sa1 system and a newly identified SCCmec-related PemIK-Sa6 system characterized in this study.

IMPORTANCE

Toxin–antitoxin (TA) systems are entities unique to bacteria. They are involved in the maintenance of mobile genetic elements (MGEs), regulation of gene expression and bacterial virulence.
Staphylococcus aureus
is a dangerous human pathogen with increasing antibiotic resistance (AR). The maintenance and dissemination of AR determinants is often driven by MGEs, which link AR and TA systems. Our study identified a negative correlation between TA systems and AR determinants in
S. aureus
. Furthermore, we have shown that the expression of a toxic component of an exemplary TA system negatively affects antibiotic resistance. We argue that in particular strains, a selective pressure maintains either the TA system or AR determinant. Alternatively, TA systems are inactivated by mutations when present together with AR determinants to maintain the functionality of the latter. Our observations uncover an important factor shaping the spread and evolution of both TA systems and AR determinants in bacteria, which is especially relevant to pathogenic species.
Involvement of an orphan response regulator of the two-component regulatory system in the formation of physiologically mature sporangia in
Actinoplanes missouriensis
Authors: Akutsu Takuya , Tan Zhuwen , Hirata Aiko , Tezuka Takeaki , Ohnishi Yasuo
Published: February 2025

The actinomycete
Actinoplanes missouriensis
forms terminal sporangia that contain dormant sporangiospores. Upon contact with water, sporangia release zoospores through a process called sporangium dehiscence. In this study, we characterized
asfR
(
AMIS_76070
), which encodes an orphan response regulator receiver domain protein of the two-component regulatory system, as one of 136 genes whose transcription was highly activated during sporangium formation.

A

ctinoplanes
s
porangium
f
ormation
r
egulator (AsfR) homologs are conserved among
Actinoplanes
bacteria. An
asfR
null mutant (Δ
asfR
) strain formed normally shaped sporangia containing apparently normal dormant spores, but they exhibited defective sporangium dehiscence; the number of spores released from the sporangia of the Δ
asfR
strain was four orders of magnitude lower than that from the sporangia of the wild-type strain. This phenotypic change was recovered by introducing
asfR
with its own promoter into the Δ
asfR
strain. Based on the amino acid sequence and predicted structure, the function of AsfR appeared to be controlled by the phosphorylation of Asp-72. Consistently, the phenotypic change observed in the Δ
asfR
strain was not restored by introducing a mutated
asfR
(D72N) gene. Three orphan histidine kinases (HKs) in
A. missouriensis
were found to interact with AsfR by screening using a bacterial two-hybrid assay. However, gene disruption experiments revealed that these three HKs were not required for sporangium dehiscence in
A. missouriensis
. Although the molecular functions of AsfR remain to be elucidated, this study shows that AsfR is involved in the formation of physiologically mature sporangia that are fully prepared to release spores under sporangium dehiscence-inducing conditions.

IMPORTANCE

Actinoplanes missouriensis
undergoes a life cycle involving complex morphological development, including mycelial growth, sporangium formation and dehiscence, swimming as zoospores, germination, and outgrowth to mycelial growth. In this study, we revealed that a stand-alone response regulator receiver domain protein, AsfR, is required for the formation of physiologically mature sporangia that can release spores under sporangium dehiscence-inducing conditions.
A. missouriensis
seems to express genes that are involved in sporangium dehiscence during sporangium formation, considering that an
asfR
null mutant produced normally shaped sporangia, but these sporangia were deficient in sporangium dehiscence. Although the molecular functions of AsfR, as well as the histidine kinase(s) that phosphorylates AsfR, remain to be elucidated, identification of AsfR as a possible key regulator for the preparation of the onset and progression of sporangium dehiscence is significant, because almost no proteins involved in the early stages of sporangium dehiscence have been identified in
A. missouriensis
.
Fifteen-minute consultation: An approach to the child protection medical assessment—a focus on non-technical skills
Authors: Asiegbunam Nkiru , Morris Helen
Published: February 2025

Child protection medical assessments (CPMAs) are carried out to seek evidence of abuse or neglect and for this reason many paediatricians find them daunting. In this article we explore how CPMAs differ from routine clinical assessments of children. We describe how preparation can help ensure the assessment goes smoothly and provide tips for communication with the child and carer. We also highlight the importance of self-care for clinicians working in this emotive area of paediatrics. We conclude by sharing some pitfalls and how practitioners can overcome them.
Complete remodelling post-intralesional resection of an aggressive proximal humerus aneurysmal bone cyst mimicking telangiectatic osteosarcoma
Authors: Singh Harpreet , Aw Sze Jet , Mahadev Arjandas , Zainuddin Mohammad Ashik Bin , Wong Kenneth Pak Leung
Published: February 2025

We describe a case of an aggressive proximal humerus aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) mimicking telangiectatic osteosarcoma with complete remodelling and reconstitution of the bone. A boy in middle childhood presented with a pathological fracture preceded by progressive right shoulder pain and swelling. Imaging and open biopsy supported the diagnosis of primary ABC with positive ubiquitin-specific protease 6 gene fusion. Treatment was initially refused, leading to significant bone erosion. Subsequently, intralesional resection and grafting were performed, confirming the ABC diagnosis. Three years post-surgery, radiographs show excellent bone remodelling, with the child maintaining premorbid shoulder function. By performing an intralesional resection, there was no doubt of tissue representation, and it allows contamination to be minimised should a wide resection be necessary later. Interestingly, there was complete reconstitution and remodelling of the proximal humerus; likely from intact periosteum like that seen in the donor sites of fibula strut grafts.
Assessing the value-added contributions of community health workers and communities to early child development: a longitudinal study in a low-income setting
Authors: Hemlock Caitlin , Dieci Maria , Fernald Lia C H , Galasso Emanuela , Ratsifandrihamanana Lisy , Weber Ann M
Published: February 2025

Background

Early child development (ECD) programs in low-resource settings can be effective when delivered through community health workers (CHWs), but there are significant challenges when moving to scale. This analysis aimed to determine the value-added, or relative effectiveness, of CHWs and communities on ECD outcomes within a home-visiting trial and examine associations between observable characteristics of the CHW or community and value-added.

Methods

We analysed data from the four treatment arms of a cluster-randomised trial conducted in 100 communities in rural Madagascar from 2014 to 2016. CHWs (one per cluster) and enrolled children (0–12 months) were surveyed at baseline and 2 years later. Child development scores were assessed using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire-Inventory (ASQ-I) and were internally age-standardised. We determined value-added by estimating CHW/community-level fixed effects on ASQ-I Z-score trajectories (change from baseline to endline), conditional on baseline ASQ-I Z-score and child and household characteristics. We also assessed associations between value-added and observable CHW and community-level characteristics.

Results

We analysed data from 1456 children present at baseline and endline. CHW/community fixed effects explained 26% of ASQ-I trajectory variance and estimates ranged from −1.68 SD to 1.31 SD. CHWs who had another income-generating position were associated with a 0.54 SD (95% CI 0.22, 0.87) increase in ASQ-I Z-score from baseline to endline. Greater increases in children’s ASQ-I Z-scores were also associated with communities that had better healthcare, education and transportation infrastructure and were less geographically dispersed.

Conclusions

Children gained or lost over one standard deviation of ASQ-I Z-score depending on the community and CHW where they lived. Children’s development trajectories benefitted from CHWs involved in an external income-generating activity and communities with better access to healthcare, education, and transportation. Careful consideration of the contexts in which child development interventions are implemented and potential correlates of improved CHW performance are crucial for improved outcomes.
Efficacy of dynamic interpersonal therapy in improving mentalising in patients with major depressive disorder and the mediating effect of mentalising on changes in depressive symptoms
Authors: Jiang Wenhui , Yao Jiayu , Wang Yuan , Su Shanshan , Zheng Ziwei , Yang Yang , Qiu Jianyin
Published: February 2025

Background

Dynamic interpersonal therapy (DIT) is a short-term psychodynamic psychotherapy that has been shown to effectively reduce depressive symptoms in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). In DIT, the depressive symptoms are formulated as responses to impaired mentalisation. DIT aims to alleviate depressive symptoms by improving mentalising.

Aims

This study aimed to examine the effect of DIT on improving mentalising and the mediating effect of mentalising in changes in depressive symptoms.

Methods

Outpatients received either DIT combined with antidepressant medication treatment (DIT group) or antidepressant medication treatment alone (ADM group) for 16 weeks. The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) and Reflective Functioning Questionnaire (RFQ) were used. The intention-to-treat principle, mixed linear models, multiple imputation, Pearson’s correlation analysis and mediation analysis were conducted. The per-protocol principle was used as sensitivity analysis.

Results

The DIT group had significantly lower HAMD (least-squares (LS) mean difference=−3.756, p<0.001), PHQ (LS mean difference=−4.188, p<0.001), uncertainty about mental states in the RFQ (RFQ-U, LS mean difference=−2.116, p<0.001) and higher certainty about mental states in the RFQ (RFQ-C, LS mean difference=2.214, p=0.028) scores than the ADM group at post-treatment. The change in RFQ-C was marginally significantly correlated with the change in HAMD (r=−0.218, pcorrected=0.09). The change in RFQ-U was significantly correlated with the change in HAMD (r=0.269, pcorrected=0.024) and the change in PHQ (r=0.343, pcorrected<0.001). When using RFQ-U as the mediating variable and PHQ as the dependent variable, a significant mediating effect was found (p=0.043, 95% confidence interval 0.024 to 1.453).

Conclusions

The DIT group yielded better outcomes compared with the ADM group in reducing depressive symptoms and improving mentalising. Improvements in mentalising were associated with reductions in depressive symptoms. These findings support that mentalising may contribute to the therapeutic effects of DIT in MDD.
Fall-related mortality in Spain: trends and disparities by age and gender
Authors: Cayuela Lucía , García-Muñoz Cristina , Achaval Victoria , Ortega Calvo Manuel , Cayuela Aurelio
Published: February 2025

Background

Falls are a significant public health concern, particularly among older adults. This study aimed to analyse trends in fall-related mortality in Spain from 1999 to 2022, focusing on age and gender disparities.

Methods

Using a longitudinal ecological study, we analysed trends in fall mortality. Using data from the Spanish National Institute of Statistics, age-standardised mortality rates (ASMRs) were calculated for different age groups and genders. Joinpoint regression analysis was employed to identify significant trends and calculate annual percentage changes in mortality rates.

Results

Fall deaths in Spain surged from 1999 to 2022, with a significant increase in mortality rates. This increase was more pronounced among men than women, and the older adults aged 65 and older accounted for most fall-related deaths. Overall, ASMRs increased with age and were consistently higher for men across all age groups. Men experienced a 1.9% annual increase in ASMRs, with a significant rise starting in 2009. Women’s ASMRs increased by 1.8% per year, with a more pronounced increase from 2007 to 2013 before slowing. Among those aged 65 and over, rates increased significantly across most age groups, with the ASMR for men rising by 2.7% per year and for women by 2%.

Conclusions

Fall mortality in Spain has significantly increased, particularly among older adults and men. The findings underscore the need for targeted fall prevention strategies, especially for high-risk groups. Future interventions should address gender-specific risks and emerging issues in middle-aged adults to effectively reduce fall-related mortality across all age groups.
Human papillomavirus vaccination uptake among men who have sex with men living with HIV
Authors: Moran Conor , Garcia-Iglesias Jaime , Kerr Colm
Published: February 2025

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common sexually transmitted infection. Persistent infection with high-risk subtypes can lead to a variety of cancers. Men who have sex with men (MSM), particularly those who are living with HIV (MSMLWH), have a high prevalence of HPV infection and are at greatest risk of HPV-related diseases such as anal cancer. HPV vaccines are effective in preventing new infections, and many countries have implemented HPV vaccination for MSM.

Methods

This systematic review aimed to examine HPV vaccine uptake among MSM and MSMLWH. Quantitative studies published between 2010 and 2022 were screened and included if they detailed HPV vaccination uptake data for MSM and MSMLWH. Identified studies were screened using Covidence, data were extracted from the final included studies and narratively synthesised, and risk of bias of studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Checklist tool for prevalence studies.

Results

There were 19 studies all from high-income countries, included in the final review. This review showed a wide variety of HPV vaccine uptake, ranging from 2.7% to 91.5% for HIV-negative MSM and among MSMLWH ranging from 5.6% to 90%. Although limited by the heterogeneity of studies and settings, there was evidence of a consistent, steady increase in HPV vaccination particularly among younger men. MSMLWH generally had higher rates of HPV vaccination, but overall HPV vaccine uptake remained suboptimal.

Conclusion

MSMLWH are at high risk of HPV-related disease. Despite an available and efficacious vaccine in many countries, this review showed overall rates of HPV vaccination uptake remain inadequate. Further research and policy should aim to address and overcome barriers to HPV vaccination.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023382251.
Error propagation in spatial length-weight models with implications for stock assessments
Authors: McDonald Raphaël , Keith David , Mills Flemming Joanna
Published: February 2025

In ﬁsheries management, there has been a great deal of eﬀort focused on uncertainty quantiﬁcation, especially for biomass indices used in stock assessments. Notwithstanding, many models still treat total biomass in an observed tow as a single observation ignoring the impact of preliminary analyses and/or modelling required to estimate it. Our work aims to assess the impact of propagating uncertainties in these data through to the biomass index by way of transformation of variables and non-parametric bootstrapping. We assess our proposed approaches with six diﬀerent length-weight models for the sea scallop population of Georges Bank, as well as via simulation. Our ﬁndings conﬁrm that data aggregation without proper uncertainty quantiﬁcation and error propagation can substantially inﬂate conﬁdence intervals for biomass indices. We make available easily implementable approaches that can improve the statistical eﬃciency of indices for a wide range of ﬁsheries.
Morchella capensis sp. nov., the Fynbos morel—the first description of an endemic Morchella species from Africa
Authors: Van der Merwe B. , Williams J. , Le Roux E. , Van Staden A. , Lawrence G. , Jacobs K.
Published: February 2025

A species of Morchella was observed growing in spring, under a vulnerable member of the Proteaceae, in the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa. These fungi shared many of the cryptic characteristics common in the genus Morchella and displayed a wide range of phenotypic expression. The unique ecology of these fungi and the fact that no endemic Morchella species have been described from Africa lead to suspicions that this could be a novel species. Sequencing of key genetic regions, phylogenetics, and morphological studies confirmed that this was indeed a previously unknown species of Morchella. Roots collected underneath the fruiting bodies displayed a range of root-associated activities, alluding to a possible relationship. Further, this Morchella species has a history of traditional use on the Cape Peninsula of South Africa. The traditional use of fungi is rarely recorded in Africa. In this study, we introduce Morchella capensis sp. nov., the first endemic African morel.
Speech perception: a model of word recognition
Authors: Luck Jean-Marc , Mehta Anita
Published: February 2025

We present a model of speech perception which takes into account effects o correlations between sounds. Words in this model correspond to the attractors of a suitably chosen descent dynamics. The resulting lexicon is rich in short words, and much less so in longer ones, as befits a reasonable word length distribution. We separately examine the decryption of short and long words in the presence of mishearings. In the regime of short words, the algorithm either quickly retrieves a word, or proposes another valid word. In the regime of longer words, the behaviour is markedly different. While the successful decryption of words continues to be relatively fast, there is a finite probability of getting lost permanently, as the algorithm wanders round the landscape of suitable words without ever settling on one.

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Computer Science Under Trump
Authors: Kugler Logan
Published: February 2025

Experts say that computer science could look a lot different under the new administration.
An Empirical Investigation of the Effects of Economic Crisis on the Digital Transformation of Public Welfare ? Some Unexpected Findings
Authors: Loukis Euripidis , Kavallari Chryso
Published: February 2025

Economic crises are occurring with increasing frequency and duration in modern economies. They affect negatively both private and public sector organizations, but sometimes they can have some positive effects as well. However, the effects of economic crises with respect to the digitalization and digital transformation activities and aspects of organizations have been empirically investigated to a very limited extent, and only for private sector ones. This study contributes to filling this research gap by investigating empirically the effects of economic crisis on the digital transformation activities of the public organizations that perform one of the most critical functions of the modern state: public welfare. For this purpose, we have constructed a research model, based on the ‘Resource-based View’ (RBV) of the firm, and a comprehensive conceptualization of government digital transformation, as theoretical foundations. Our study has been conducted in Greece, a country hit by a strong economic crisis between 2010 and 2018. It has been concluded that the above economic crisis resulted in a serious decrease of the ICT-related investment and operating expenses of the examined public welfare organizations. However, at the same time the economic crisis has unexpectedly led to a significant increase of the digital transformation developments in these critical organizations, and a significant advancement in significant aspects of their digital transformation.
Forensic Analytical Chemistry for Minimizing Injustice: Advances and Challenges
Authors: Burks Raychelle , Sauzier Georgina , Kammrath Brooke W. , Houck Max M.
Published: February 2025

Forensic analytical chemistry has evolved significantly, embracing a myriad of methodological and technological advancements to expand the frontiers of evidence analysis. Beyond technology, modern forensic scientists face challenges working within the criminal justice system where scientific operational and research choices are directed by law enforcement agencies. This review examines issues surrounding the accuracy of presumptive tests, the use of portable instrumentation, and sample contamination, as exemplified by field drug testing. Data management and preservation are discussed, including the integration of machine learning into forensic workflows and the critical need for transparency to stakeholders. Finally, the operational interpretation and translation of analytical results and the role of forensic laboratories as high-reliability organizations are explored. Addressing the disparities and ensuring the credibility of forensic methods are essential for promoting reliability and equity within the justice system.
Macrophage Differentiation and Metabolic Adaptation in Mycobacterial Infections
Authors: Lösslein Anne Kathrin , Henneke Philipp
Published: February 2025

The adaptation of macrophages—the most common tissue-resident immune cells—to metabolic and microbial cues with high local variability is essential for the maintenance of organ integrity. In homeostasis, macrophages show largely predictable tissue-specific differentiation, as recently revealed by multidimensional methods. However, chronic infections with human-adapted pathogens substantially contribute to the differentiation complexity of tissue macrophages, which has been only partially resolved. Specifically, the response to mycobacterial species—which range from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (with highest specificity for humans, broad organ tropism, yet tissue-specific disease phenotypes) to environmental mycobacteria with humans as accidental hosts—may serve as a paradigm of tissue macrophage adaptation mechanisms. While mycobacterial species-specific tissue preferences are partially related to the mode of acquisition and pathogen characteristics, evolutionary convergence with macrophages driven by metabolic features of the target organ likely contributes to infection resistance and immunopathology. In this review, we unravel the mechanisms of tissue-specific macrophage differentiation and its limitations in mycobacterial infections.
Radiologist’s Guide to Lumbar Spine Pain Interventions: Indications, Techniques, and Complications
Authors: Gupta Rajul , Sriwastwa Aakanksha , Wang David , Hazenfield Michael J.
Published: February 2025

Knowledge of the pathophysiology of lumbar pain, appropriate patient selection, fluoroscopic anatomy, needle placement, and potential complications is crucial for successful lumbar spine pain interventions.
Cortical beta modulation during active movement is highly reproducible in healthy adults
Authors: Niemelä Linda , Lerche Lola , Illman Mia Johanna , Kirveskari Erika , Liljeström Mia , Pauls K. Amande M. , Renvall Hanna
Published: February 2025

The rolandic beta (13-30 Hz) rhythm recorded over the somatomotor cortices is known to be modified by movement execution and observation. Beta modulation has been considered as a biomarker of motor function in various neurological diseases, and active natural-like movements might offer a clinically feasible method to assess them. While the stability of movement-related beta modulation has been addressed during passive and highly controlled active movements, the test-retest reliability of natural-like movements has not been established. We used magnetoencephalography (MEG) to evaluate the reproducibility of movement-related sensorimotor beta modulation longitudinally over three months in a group of healthy adults (n = 22). We focused on the changes in beta activity both during active grasping movement (beta suppression) and after movement termination (beta rebound). The strengths of beta suppression and rebound were similar between the baseline and follow-up measurements; intraclass correlation coefficient values (0.76-0.96) demonstrated high reproducibility. Our results indicate that the beta modulation in response to an active hand-squeezing task has excellent test-retest reliability: the natural-like active movement paradigm is suitable for evaluating the functional state of the sensorimotor cortex and can be utilized as a biomarker in clinical follow-up studies.
Volumetric mesoscopic electrophysiology: a new imaging modality for the non-human primate
Authors: Teichert Tobias , Papp László , Vincze Ferenc , Burns Nioka , Goodell Baldwin , Ahmed Zabir , Holmes Andrew , Chamanzar Maysam , Gurnsey Kate
Published: February 2025

The primate brain is a densely interconnected organ whose function is best understood by recording from the entire structure in parallel, rather than parts of it in sequence. However, available methods either have limited temporal resolution (functional magnetic resonance imaging), limited spatial resolution (macroscopic electroencephalography), or a limited field of view (microscopic electrophysiology). To address this need, we developed a volumetric, mesoscopic recording approach (MePhys) by tessellating the volume of a monkey hemisphere with 992 electrode contacts that were distributed across 62 chronically implanted multi-electrode shafts. We showcase the scientific promise of MePhys by describing the functional interactions of local field potentials between the more than 300,000 simultaneously recorded pairs of electrodes. We find that a subanesthetic dose of ketamine —believed to mimic certain aspects of psychosis— can create a pronounced state of functional disconnection and prevent the formation of stable large-scale intrinsic states. We conclude that MePhys provides a new and fundamentally distinct window into brain function whose unique profile of strengths and weaknesses complements existing approaches in synergistic ways.