bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long Term Outcomes of Transplant Recipients Comparing Belatacept vs. Tacrolimus: A UNOS Database Analysis
Authors: Canizares Stalin , Montalvan Adriana , Eckhoff Devin , Sureshkumar Kalathil K. , Chopra Bhavna
Published: January 2025

Calcineurin inhibitors have been the choice for maintenance immunosuppression (IS) in kidney transplant recipients (KTR), but they are associated with nephrotoxicity and metabolic side effects. We aim to compare the long‐term outcomes of KTR on belatacept (bela) versus tacrolimus (tac) IS, in all KTRs and various subgroups. Using the UNOS‐STAR files, we identified adult first‐KTR from 2010 to 2022. Patients were categorized based on maintenance‐IS at index transplant admission by creating a propensity score matched cohort at 1:5 rate using several clinical characteristics. Primary outcomes included patient death, graft failure (GF), and death‐censored graft failure (DCGF). Secondary outcomes included delayed graft function (DGF), acute‐rejections (AR) within a year, and serum creatinine (Cr) at 1‐year. The propensity‐matched cohort included KTRs on bela (N = 2612) and tac (N = 12760). There was no significant difference in the hazard ratio of death (1.03 [0.92, 1.14]), GF (1.07 [0.97, 1.17]), or DCGF (1.11 [0.98, 1.25]). A sensitivity analysis comparing a propensity‐matched cohort of bela + tac (n = 2033) versus tac (n = 9004); demonstrated significantly reduced risks of death (0.87 [0.76–1.00], p = 0.043) and GF (0.73 [0.64–0.83] p < 0.001) compared to those on Tac alone. In conclusion, bela + tac seems to be a nephron‐sparing and rejection‐lowering IS regimen with overall improved graft and patient outcomes when compared to the current standard of tacrolimus. Larger Randomized Controlled studies are needed.
In vitro comparative analysis of metabolic capabilities and inhibitory profiles of selected CYP2D6 alleles on tramadol metabolism
Authors: Nahid Noor Ahmed , Kanumuri Siva Rama Raju , Sharma Abhisheak , Wang Danxin , Johnson Julie A.
Published: January 2025

Tramadol, the 41st most prescribed drug in the United States in 2021 is a prodrug activated by CYP2D6, which is highly polymorphic. Previous studies showed enzyme‐inhibitor affinity varied between different CYP2D6 allelic variants with dextromethorphan and atomoxetine metabolism. However, no study has compared tramadol metabolism in different CYP2D6 alleles with different CYP2D6 inhibitors. We hypothesize that the inhibitory effects of CYP2D6 inhibitors on CYP2D6‐mediated tramadol metabolism are inhibitor‐ and CYP2D6‐allele‐specific. We performed comparative analyses of CYP2D6*1, CYP2D6*2, CYP2D6*10, and CYP2D6*17 using recombinant enzymes to metabolize tramadol to O‐desmethyltramadol, measured via UPLC‐MS/MS. The Michaelis constant (Km) and maximum velocity (Vmax) for each CYP2D6 allele, and IC50 values for different inhibitors were determined by nonlinear regression analysis. Intrinsic clearance was calculated as Vmax/Km. The intrinsic clearance of tramadol was almost double for CYP2D6*2 (180%) but was much lower for CYP2D6*10 and *17 (20% and 10%, respectively) compared to CYP2D6*1. The inhibitor potencies (defined by Ki) for the various inhibitors for the CYP2D6*1 allele were quinidine > terbinafine > paroxetine ≈ duloxetine >>bupropion. CYP2D6*2 showed the next greatest inhibition, with Ki ratios compared to CYP2D6*1 ranging from 0.96 to 3.87. For each inhibitor tested, CYP2D6*10 and CYP2D6*17 were more resistant to inhibition than CYP2D6*1 or CYP2D6*2, with most Ki ratios in the 3–9 range. Three common CYP2D6 allelic variants showed different metabolic capacities toward tramadol and genotype‐dependent inhibition compared to CYP2D6*1. Further studies are warranted to understand the clinical consequences of inhibitor and CYP2D6 genotype‐dependent drug–drug interactions on tramadol bioactivation.
Integrated care for mental health in epilepsy: A systematic review and meta‐synthesis by the International League Against Epilepsy Integrated Mental Health Care Pathways Task Force
Authors: Gandy Milena , Wu Wendy , Woldhuis Thomas , Bennett Sophie D. , Baslet Gaston , Araujo‐Filho Gerardo , Modi Avani C. , Reuber Markus , Tang Venus , Umuziga M. Providence , Munger Clary Heidi M.
Published: January 2025

Mental health (MH) comorbidities are prevalent among people with epilepsy (PWE), but many experience challenges accessing care. To address this, suggestions have been made to integrate MH care into epilepsy care settings, yet the current approaches, benefits, and implementation determinants to MH care integration are unclear. This review aims to synthesize existing integrated MH care models for PWE to inform the development and planning of future initiatives. We searched Embase, Medline, PsycINFO, and Cochrane for articles that described any activity within a health care setting that addressed MH as routine care for PWE. Year of publication was restricted to 2000 onward. At least two authors reviewed articles and extracted data. Barriers, facilitators, and future recommendations were identified through thematic synthesis using NVivo. Study quality was assessed for articles reporting clinical outcomes. Following review of 7520 abstracts and 596 full‐text articles, 65 met eligibility criteria and were included. Most (k = 43, 66%) described routine MH screening, with 11 reporting on uptake and acceptability, which was generally high. Interventions included psychological interventions (k = 23, 35%), psychoeducation (k = 9, 14%), and pharmacotherapy (k = 6, 9%). Thirteen articles (20%) reported on changes in MH outcomes, all of which indicated some improvements in MH, but 33% were rated as poor quality. Thirty‐four (52%) articles reported on barriers and facilitators, and 34 (37%) articles provided recommendations for future initiatives. Overall, diverse approaches to integrated MH care for PWE were identified, with promising uptake, acceptability, and impacts on MH outcomes. Qualitative analysis informed a proposed framework for future integrated MH care initiatives. The framework outlines fundamental components of care activities, such as MH screening, psychoeducation, and care pathways, as well as key facilitators for their establishment (e.g., policies, infrastructure, staffing) and effective delivery (e.g., staff incentives, acceptability, evaluation).
Valproate discontinuation in girls and women of childbearing age with epilepsy: An Italian multicenter retrospective study on prescribing patterns and outcomes
Authors: Esposto Roberta , Falcicchio Giovanni , Zambrelli Elena , Cerulli Irelli Emanuele , Monti Giulia , Ranzato Federica , Giuliano Loretta , La Neve Angela , Galimberti Carlo Adrea , Belotti Laura Maria Beatrice , Turner Katherine , Catania Cecilia , Polo Diana , Todaro Valeria , Bisulli Francesca , Mostacci Barbara ,   Appendix A: Epilepsy and Gender Commission of the LICE (Italian chapter of the ILAE)
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aimed to identify prescribing behaviors in women of childbearing potential (WOCP) with epilepsy already taking valproate (VPA), and to investigate the relationship between VPA maintenance, substitution, reduction, or withdrawal as part of polytherapy, and seizure worsening or relapse.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the prescription behaviors and seizure outcomes in WOCP (16–50 years of age) with epilepsy, referred to eight Italian epilepsy centers, who were taking VPA for at least 1 year between 2014 and 2019.

Results

Among 750 women (~12% of all WOCP), 528 (70.4%) maintained VPA unchanged throughout the observation period, 103 (13.7%) replaced VPA with another antiseizure medication (ASM), 90 (12%) reduced VPA, and 29 (3.9%) discontinued VPA in polytherapy. Focal epilepsy was most strongly associated with VPA withdrawal (odds ratio [OR] 2.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.38–6.38), whereas generalized epilepsy was most associated with its non‐withdrawal (reduction/switch/maintenance) (OR .31, 95% CI .14–.68). Intellectual disability, higher seizure frequency, and higher VPA doses were linked to VPA continuation. VPA withdrawal from polytherapy was associated with a higher risk of tonic–clonic seizure worsening (OR 2.91, 95% CI 1.09–7.77) compared to non‐withdrawal.

Significance

VPA was rarely withdrawn or substituted in WOCP with epilepsy, in secondary and tertiary care settings following European regulatory restrictions. This likely reflects a population with severe epilepsies where VPA is difficult to replace; whereas women with milder epilepsies likely discontinued VPA earlier, as evidenced by its low overall prescription frequency. Withdrawal of VPA from a polytherapy regimen was associated with a threefold increased risk of seizure exacerbation.
Mindfulness protects relationship quality from stress: Roles of trait mindfulness and relationship mindfulness
Authors: Zheng Yunzhi , Marroquin Crystal G. , Kimmes Jonathan G.
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aimed to empirically test how trait mindfulness (i.e., one's general tendency to be mindful) and relationship mindfulness (i.e., being mindful in relationships) protect couple relationships from stress and the potential extra buffer perceived partner relationship mindfulness provides.

Background

Stress has harmful effects on couple relationships, but mindfulness may mitigate such effects. Yet, no study has empirically tested the distinct but complementary roles various forms of mindfulness play in this process.

Method

A sample of 249 individuals in romantic relationships completed a cross‐sectional survey that included measures of mindfulness, perceived stress, and relationship quality.

Results

(a) Trait mindfulness was associated with better relationship quality through reduced perceived stress. (b) Relationship mindfulness moderated the link between perceived stress and negative relationship quality and was a moderated mediator in the model. (c) Perceived partner relationship mindfulness served as an extra buffer on the link between perceived stress and negative relationship quality.

Conclusion

The results extended the theoretical model of mindfulness and romantic relationships by empirically demonstrating the various roles of mindfulness in protecting relationships from stress.

Implications

Practitioners should consider targeting both trait mindfulness and relationship mindfulness, as well as promoting perceived partner relationship mindfulness and joint participation in mindfulness‐based couple interventions.
Fully guided system for position‐predictable autotransplantation of teeth: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Li Yongqi , Lin Zhiyan , Liu Yudong , Chen Guangwei , Li Chengwei , Wu Huilin , Wang Xuelian , Liu Ye , Kuang Minyi , Zhou Libin
Published: January 2025

Aim

Autotransplantation of teeth (ATT) is a viable biological method for addressing dental defects. The objective was to achieve occlusal reconstruction‐orientated ATT to enhance functionality and obtain optimal location and adjacency. This study proposes a new concept of a guide (a fully guided system) to achieve position‐predictable ATT.

Methodology

This study included 30 transplants in 29 patients who were randomly divided into two groups during the initial examination using a single‐blind method. The experimental group comprised 15 transplants in 14 patients who underwent surgery using a fully guided system. Fifteen transplants were performed on 15 patients in the control group using only a replica.

Results

The mean number of repeated teeth autotransplantation attempts and mean preparation time exhibited no significant differences. The mean follow‐up period was 1 year. Twenty‐six transplants were followed up clinically, while four were only followed up by phone calls. The experimental group demonstrated a 100% success rate, whereas the control group exhibited a 70% success rate, with an overall 100% survival rate. 3D analysis: Deviation of both angle and distance was calculated for evaluation of accuracy. The mean centre deviation of teeth in experiment group was 0.79 mm (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.51–1.08) compared to 1.79 mm (95% CI, 1.10–2.47) in control group (p < .05). The mean of average index points distance deviation showed a significant difference. The mean angle deviation of long axis in experiment group was 3.87° (95% CI, 2.25–5.49) compared to 12.98° (95% CI, 8.64–17.31) in control group (p < .05). The angle deviation of long axis in mesio‐distal direction, buccal‐lingual direction and rotation showed a significant difference also.

Conclusions

The results of the analysis indicated that the fully guided system increased the predictability of achieving an ideal transplant position with intuitive data, establishing a solid foundation for optimal dental functional recovery and restoration. However, this study had limitations regarding the generalisability of the design of the optimal location for transplantation and the equipment requirements for clinical procedures. Therefore, further research on the screening of indications for guided systems and location planning is necessary.

Clinical Trial Registration

This study was registered on the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Registration Number: ChiCTR 2300074646).
Understanding the CMAS corrosion behavior of high‐entropy (La0.2Sm0.2Er0.2Y0.2Yb0.2)2Ce2O7
Authors: Xu Liang , Gao Hongfei , He Xin , Niu Min , Dai Zhiwei , Ni Haotian , Su Lei , Wang Hongjie
Published: January 2025

Ceramic thermal barrier coating (TBC) materials are used to protect the superalloys from the damage of harmful high‐temperature airflow and improve the efficiency of jet and gas turbine engines. However, the long‐term application of TBC materials and the robustness of these materials can be destroyed by aggressive calcium‐magnesium‐alumina‐silicate (CMAS) melt during high‐temperature service. Increasing the configuration entropy of material by doping multiple principal components has become a research hotspot in the design of corrosion‐resistant thermal barrier coating material and has opened an infinite space of chemical composition, structure, and material properties. In this study, high‐entropy (La0.2Sm0.2Er0.2Y0.2Yb0.2)2Ce2O7 was synthesized and its CMAS corrosion behavior was investigated by experimental investigation and first‐principles calculation. The effects of the increase of configurational entropy and the subsequent potential effects on the CMAS corrosion behavior of Ce‐based fluorite oxides have been sufficiently investigated. By compared with control samples, the high‐entropy (La0.2Sm0.2Er0.2Y0.2Yb0.2)2Ce2O7 possesses the minimum infiltration depth of CMAS melts and the denser corrosion reaction layer, indicating the best corrosion resistance. The corrosion resistance mechanism of high‐entropy (La0.2Sm0.2Er0.2Y0.2Yb0.2)2Ce2O7 was studied by first‐principles calculation. The greater stability and resistance to segregation of CMAS melt in the CMAS/(La0.2Sm0.2Er0.2Y0.2Yb0.2)2Ce2O7 system, the poor adsorption capacity for CMAS melt which leads to a weak infiltration ability of CMAS melt; the weakest interfacial chemical reaction at the interface indicated by the smallest value of Griffith rupture work and the least species migration of high‐entropy fluorite oxide can be responsible to the enhanced corrosion resistance. Our work reveals that increasing the configuration entropy can be an effective strategy for TBC material to enhance corrosion resistance.
Predictors of Arrhythmia Recurrence After Cryoballoon Ablation for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: A Sub‐Analysis of the Cryo Global Registry
Authors: Chun K. R. Julian , Stellbrink Christoph , Murakami Masato , Drephal Christian , Oh Il‐Young , van Bragt Kelly A. , Becker Daniel , Anselme Sylvain , Todd Derick , Kaczmarek Krzysztof , Nitta Junichi
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Freedom from recurrences of atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATA) is suboptimal after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (PsAF). This sub‐analysis from the Cryo Global Registry sought to investigate predictors of ablation success after PVI using cryoballoon ablation (CBA) for PsAF.

Methods and Results

ATA recurrence was defined as ≥ 30 s recurrence of atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter or atrial tachycardia after a 90‐day blanking period and through 12‐months. Univariate and multivariable Cox regression analysis (with ATA recurrence as an endpoint) was performed to identify CBA responders. PsAF patients (N = 882) were on average 63.9 ± 11.3 years old (69.2% male), and freedom from ATA recurrence was 79.7% (76.8%–82.2%). Longer elapsed time from PsAF diagnosis to ablation (hazard ratio [HR] 1.07 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03–1.11); p = 0.002) and a larger number of previously failed antiarrhythmic drugs (HR 1.39 (95% CI: 1.13–1.70); p < 0.002) were shown to be independent predictors of ATA recurrence in a multivariate model which included 703 evaluated patients.

Conclusion

These real‐world results provide important insights to guide referral of PsAF patients, including the benefits of earlier treatment via CBA.
Ethics Committees' Practices in Healthcare, Banking and Research: Key Requirements for Their Functionality
Authors: Arık Tuğba , Michl Susanne
Published: January 2025

Rationale

To meet concerns about ethical and unethical behavior in their work environments and workplaces, organizations began establishing ethics programs that contain ethics committees (ECs). There is now a tradition and diverse use of ECs for ethical decision‐making in many different organizational settings. In addition, ECs have been subject to many publications in books and articles in the scientific literature. Yet, until now no comparative analysis has been published that brings together ECs' practices in different sectors.

Aims and Objectives

This article aims to bridge this knowledge gap and illustrate which main requirements for ECs' practices need to be addressed to help ECs meet their anticipated functions.

Method

To do so, this paper lays out a study based on an exploratory, qualitative design using focus groups and individual expert interviews that compare ECs' practices in the healthcare, banking, and scientific research sectors (as far as dual use of research is concerned).

Results

Based on the results of this study we were able to make a distinction between two main categories: moral authority and trustworthiness. We were also able to identify three sub‐categories: legitimation, mode, and outreach.

Conclusion

Based on the exploratory analysis in this study, we conclude that there are the following three distinct main requirements for the functionality of ECs: (1) a dialog between EC members and other stakeholders, (2) an approach that considers various possible modes (reactive, screening, moderating, and preventive) to enhance the quality of ECs’ decision‐making processes and (3) an outreach to all relevant EC stakeholders for the further validation of the main requirements found for ECs functionality.
The challenge of managing and retaining risks: How a paradox perspective reduces harm, realizes opportunities and enriches performance
Authors: Soane Emma
Published: January 2025

Managers in many kinds of organizations encounter risks in their daily work. A key challenge involves finding ways to manage risks and prevent harm to individuals or organizations, while retaining risks to realize opportunities. These pressures create a tension between risk management and risk retention that prevails in many sectors and is especially consequential in organizations where failures to address it may be fatal. I use inductive analysis to explore qualitative data from 72 television production company managers whose work has potential for trauma, injury and death as well as success. I find the tension between risk management and risk retention can be understood in relation to perceptions and goals. I contribute to theorizing about organizational paradox by showing how perceptions of the tension differ at the individual level. Some managers perceive the tension as a trade‐off, focus on risk management and emphasize safety goals. Other managers perceive the tension as a paradox and emphasize wider performance goals that encompass safety and risk. These managers use their agency to foster empowerment and creativity. Doing so enhances to both risk management and risk retention, creating a dynamic equilibrium that reduces harm, realizes opportunities and enriches performance.
Ecology and Phylogenetic Position of the Spoon Worm, Ikeda pirotansis (Menon and DattaGupta, 1962), (Annelida: Echiura) in Kuwait, Northwestern Arabian Gulf
Authors: Nithyanandan Manickam , Tanaka Masaatsu , Al‐Yamani Faiza , Al‐Kandari Manal , Sanjeevi Prakash , Rethinaraj Chandran , Kumar Raja Dinesh , Kesavan Ratheesh
Published: January 2025

Ikeda pirotansis (Menon and DattaGupta 1962), previously known only from intertidal habitats, is now reported for the first time from subtidal habitats in Kuwait, northwestern Arabian Gulf. This finding eliminates its ecological separation from its congener Ikeda taenioides, which is endemic to Japan. The comparison of proboscis morphology (shape, length and colour pattern) between intertidal and subtidal I. pirotansis shows no significant differences. Furthermore, mtDNA extracted from proboscis samples and analysed for the COX1 gene revealed no genetic distance between intertidal and subtidal samples, confirming that I. pirotansis also colonises subtidal habitats. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the I. pirotansis from Kuwait and India clustered together, forming a monophyletic clade, and warrants more extensive regional sampling to study the detailed taxonomic and evolutionary history of the order Echiuroidea.
Modeling the collective behavior of pedestrians with the spontaneous loose leader–follower structure in public spaces
Authors: Xu Jie , Xu Dengyu , Wu Jing , Shi Xiaowei
Published: January 2025

Gaining insights into pedestrian flow patterns in public spaces can greatly benefit decision‐making processes related to infrastructure planning. Interestingly, even pedestrians are unfamiliar with one another, they often follow others, drawing on positive information and engaging in a spontaneous collective behavior of pedestrians. To model this collective behavior, this paper proposed a social force‐based technique characterized by a loosely defined leader–follower structure. First, a complex field‐based phase transfer entropy (PTE) method was applied to measure the difference in information flow between pedestrians. Setting the detecting threshold with the 3 sigma principle, the radial basis function (RBF) was utilized to identify the leader in the collective. Integrating the PTE, RBF, and social force model (SFM), a comprehensive model (PTE‐RBF‐SFM) was developed to simulate collective behavior. Some bidirectional pedestrian flow data, collected from Fairground Düsseldorf, were used to validate the model in a real‐world setting. The results showed that the proposed model provided more realistic trajectories than benchmark models, and the spontaneous leader–follower structure was found to change over time and stable with time interval prolonging.
From Teeth to Body: The Complex Role of Streptococcus mutans in Systemic Diseases
Authors: Xiao Haowen , Li Yuqing
Published: January 2025

Streptococcus mutans, the principal pathogen associated with dental caries, impacts individuals across all age groups and geographic regions. Beyond its role in compromising oral health, a growing body of research has established a link between S. mutans and various systemic diseases, including immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN), nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), infective endocarditis (IE), ulcerative colitis (UC), cerebral hemorrhage, and tumors. The pathogenic mechanisms associated with S. mutans frequently involve collagen‐binding proteins (CBPs) and protein antigens (PA) present on the bacterial surface. These components facilitate intricate interactions with the host immune system, thereby potentially contributing to various pathological processes. Specifically, CBP is implicated in the deposition of IgA and complement component C3, which exhibits characteristics reminiscent of IgAN‐like lesions through animal models, recent clinical studies suggest a potential involvement of S. mutans in IgAN. In addition, CBP binds to complement component C1q, effectively inhibiting the classical activation pathway of the complement system. In addition, CBP promotes the induction of host cells to produce interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ). Furthermore, CBP leads to direct inhibitory effects on platelets and the activation of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) at sites of vascular injury. Moreover, PA enhances the ability of S. mutans to invade hepatic tissue. Through utilization of its PAc, S. mutans excessively produces kynurenine (KYNA), which promotes the development and progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). This article synthesizes the latest advancements in understanding the mechanisms of intricate interactions between S. mutans and various systemic conditions in humans, expanding our perspective beyond the traditional focus on dental caries.
Concurrent Micra Leadless Pacemaker Implantation and AVN Ablation: Computer Modeling of Novel Risk Mitigation Strategy
Authors: Nelson Daniel Wetherbee , Erickson Lynn , Zilinski Jodi L. , Zhao Yanzhu , Karos Anna , Whitman Teresa , Niazi Imran K.
Published: January 2025

Background

Concurrent Micra leadless pacemaker (Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minnesota) implantation and atrioventricular node (AVN) ablation has been shown to be feasible and safe in patients with symptomatic, drug‐refractory atrial fibrillation (AF). However, major complications within the 30 days after concurrent Micra implantation and AVN ablation have been reported. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of the concurrent procedure at our institution.

Methods

We conducted a single‐center, retrospective case series of patients who underwent concurrent Micra implantation and radiofrequency (RF) AVN ablation from January 2019 to May 2023. A simulated computer model was created to characterize the interaction between the dissipated power at the Micra cathodal electrode as a function of the distance between the RF ablation catheter and the location of the return electrode.

Results

Fifteen patients were included. Most were elderly, White, female, and had persistent AF. One had transient, acute loss of ventricular capture that resulted in asystole and required emergent pacing from the ablation catheter. A proposed strategy of moving the RF return electrode to a cranial position from a caudal position was shown by computer modeling to direct more RF current away from the Micra and lower the dissipated power at the Micra cathodal electrode.

Conclusion

Concurrent Micra implantation and AVN ablation is feasible and safe and has high procedural success. An acute rise in pacing threshold can occur from RF energy, resulting in asystole. Computer modeling showed that placing the RF return electrode in the cranial position resulted in lower dissipated power at the Micra cathodal electrode.
OsCYP22 Interacts With OsCSN5 to Affect Rice Root Growth and Auxin Signalling
Authors: Ma Tao , Zhang Xiaofang , Jia Lihuiying , Hua Yunyan , Li Xu , Qiu Shiyou , Chen Yujie , Wang Xiaofei , Zhu Shihua , Mao Chuanzao , Xu Linying , Ding Wona
Published: January 2025

Beyond structural support, plant root systems play crucial roles in the absorption of water and nutrients, fertiliser efficiency and crop yield. However, the molecular mechanism regulating root architecture in rice remains largely unknown. In this study, a short‐root rice mutant was identified and named Oscyp22. Oscyp22 showed impairment in the growth of primary, adventitious and lateral roots. Histochemical and fluorescent staining analyses revealed reduced cell elongation and division activity in the root of Oscyp22. Further analysis showed that Oscyp22 displayed an impaired response to auxin treatment, indicating a disruption in the auxin signal transduction. Transcriptome analysis and auxin content measurement suggested that OsCYP22 might be involved in auxin synthesis and transport. Protein assays demonstrated that OsCYP22 could interact with OsCSN5 and induce its rapid degradation. Notably, Oscsn5 mutants also showed short root phenotypes and deficiencies in auxin response. These findings suggest that OsCYP22 plays a role in rice root growth potentially through auxin signalling and OsCSN5 stability.
AsGAD1 cloned from creeping bentgrass modulates cadmium tolerance of Arabidopsis thaliana by remodelling membrane lipids and cadmium uptake, transport and chelation
Authors: Di Yilin , Cao Yiqin , Peng Dandan , Liu Ying , Li Zhou
Published: January 2025

The gene GAD1 encodes a glutamate decarboxylase, which is a rate‐limiting enzyme for the biosynthesis of endogenous γ‐aminobutyrate acid (GABA), but a potential role of GAD1 in regulating cadmium (Cd) tolerance needs to be further elucidated in plants. The objective of this study was to investigate Cd tolerance of creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera) and transgenic yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) or Arabidopsis thaliana overexpressing AsGAD1. The Cd‐tolerant creeping bentgrass cultivar LOFTSL‐93 accumulated more endogenous GABA in relation to a significant upregulation of AsGAD1 in leaf and root than the Cd‐sensitive W66569 in response to Cd stress. The overexpression of AsGAD1 significantly enhanced Cd tolerance of yeast or A. thaliana associated with improved endogenous GABA content, low oxidative damage, and high cell membrane stability and photochemical efficiency. Compared with wild type, AsGAD1‐overexpressing plants or the atgad1 mutant maintained significantly lower or higher Cd content in leaf and root by down‐regulating or up‐regulating transcript levels of AtNRAMP1/2/3/4/5 and AtZIP1/2, respectively. Moreover, overexpression of AsGAD1 significantly up‐regulated transcript levels of AtHMA1/3, contributing to better Cd compartmentalization from chloroplast into cytoplasm and then into vacuoles. AsGAD1 overexpression also induced expressions of AsMT1A/1B/1C/2/3, AsGSH1/2, and AsPCS1/2, indicating better capacity of Cd chelation in cytosol and vacuoles for Cd detoxification. Hence, AsGAD1‐regulated detoxification mechanism of Cd could be related to Cd uptake, transport, and chelation. In addition, lipid contents (PC, PG, and DGDG) and the DGDG/MGDG and PC/PG ratios were improved by the AsGAD1 overexpression, which favors membrane stability and functionality under Cd stress. These findings provide new insight into the regulatory role of GAD1 in Cd tolerance in plants.
Development and validation of a nomogram for delirium in the old ischaemic stroke patients
Authors: Cai Xiaoyan , Yu Xuefen , Qin Jieying , Zhou Kebing , Li Zhiying , Zhang Jiahui , Zheng Dongxiang , Wang Peng , Yan Fengxia
Published: January 2025

Aim

To investigate the predictors of post‐stroke delirium (PSD) in the old ischaemic stroke patients, and develop a nomogram to predict the risk of PSD.

Methods

A cross‐observational study was conducted. The old ischaemic stroke patients in a tertiary hospital in South China were recruited and randomly divided into the train group and test group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed in the train group to screen out predictors of PSD, and develop a nomogram. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration curve, Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness‐of‐fit test (H‐L test) and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to evaluate the nomogram. The internal validation was performed in test group.

Results

The incidence of PSD was 21.1% (105/497). Coronary heart disease (CHD), indwelling catheter, physical restraint, and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were significantly associated with PSD. The area under the ROC curve of the nomogram was 0.885 in the train group, and 0.865 in the test group. The calibration curves of the two groups were close to the standardised line. The P‐values of H‐L test were over 0.05. The DCA presented some net benefits in the two groups.

Conclusion

CHD, indwelling catheter, restraint, and NLR were strongly associated with PSD in the old. A nomogram with good prediction effect and advisable clinical applicability was developed.
Body‐worn cameras, police arrests, and bureaucratic discretion: A large‐scale causal analysis across the United States
Authors: Headley Andrea M. , Baker Daniel B. , Kang Inkyu
Published: January 2025

Drawing on the literature on bureaucratic discretion, this study conducts a large‐scale, nationwide causal analysis of the effects of body‐worn cameras (BWC) in the United States (US). It employs a staggered difference‐in‐differences (DiD) approach using 12 years of panel data (2008–2019) covering 697 local police agencies. The findings indicate that BWC adoption had no significant effect on White arrests but led to an approximately 5.5% decrease in Black arrests. Importantly, the reduction in Black arrests was concentrated in alcohol‐related cases, which involve considerable officer discretion, but did not extend to cases categorized as more serious public safety threats, such as violent or property crimes, where officer discretion may be more limited. Meanwhile, there was also a 7.7% increase in White arrests related to weapon offenses, aligning with prior studies that suggest BWCs may serve as a tool for evidence collection. Our findings provide insight into how BWCs have influenced police arrests in the US, advancing beyond previous single‐case evaluations.
Attenuated, transformed and re‐inscribed sacra: Towards an ethnography of traditional land tenure in the Northern Territory now
Authors: Burke Paul
Published: January 2025

This paper identifies the probable features of contemporary traditional land tenure in the Northern Territory. The fragility of the intergenerational transmission of detailed knowledge of traditional country in current circumstances leads to a hollowing out of the previous concomitants of dreaming sites (stories, songs, rituals, designs). Concurrently, traditional ideas of the spirits of the Old People and associated rituals of announcement and introduction become ascendent, as does claimant archival research, processes of sacralising sites of previous quotidian human activity, strictly biological ideas of descent, and the inclusion of select individuals into traditional owner groups by means other than descent. All these developments seem to raise questions of what can be considered ‘traditional’ under the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976. Only some of these changes may be accommodated under the limited flexibility in the current definition of traditional owner. Does the definition need revision to prevent disenfranchising the younger generation?
Cerebellar control of targeted tongue movements
Authors: Bina Lorenzo , Ciapponi Camilla , Yu Si‐yang , Wang Xiang , Bosman Laurens W. J. , De Zeeuw Chris I.
Published: January 2025

The cerebellum is critical for coordinating movements related to eating, drinking and swallowing, all of which require proper control of the tongue. Cerebellar Purkinje cells can encode tongue movements, but it is unclear how their simple spikes and complex spikes induce changes in the shape of the tongue that contribute to goal‐directed movements. To study these relations, we recorded and stimulated Purkinje cells in the vermis and hemispheres of mice during spontaneous licking from a stationary or moving water spout. We found that Purkinje cells can encode rhythmic licking with both their simple spikes and complex spikes. Increased simple spike firing during tongue protrusion induces ipsiversive bending of the tongue. Unexpected changes in the target location trigger complex spikes that alter simple spike firing during subsequent licks, adjusting the tongue trajectory. Furthermore, we observed increased complex spike firing during behavioural state changes at both the start and the end of licking bouts. Using machine learning, we confirmed that alterations in Purkinje cell activity accompany licking, with different Purkinje cells often exerting heterogeneous encoding schemes. Our data highlight that directional movement control is paramount in cerebellar function and that modulation of the complex spikes and that of the simple spikes are complementary during acquisition and execution of sensorimotor coordination. These results bring us closer to understanding the clinical implications of cerebellar disorders during eating, drinking and swallowing.

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Key points

When drinking, mice make rhythmic tongue movements directed towards the water source.

Cerebellar Purkinje cells can fire rhythmically in tune with the tongue movements.

Purkinje cells encode changes in the position of the water source with complex spikes.

Purkinje cell simple spike firing affects the direction of tongue movements.

Purkinje cells that report changes in the position of the target can also adjust movements in the right direction.
We Know That We Are All Together: A Case Study of the Communal Coping Process in a Professional Ice Hockey Team
Authors: Mahot Kevin , Pété Emilie , Lienhart Noémie , Doron Julie
Published: January 2025

On the road to success, team members combine efforts to cope with stressful situations they face together. This case study explores communal coping in a professional ice hockey team during the COVID-19 crisis, involving 20 male players (Mage = 28.5). Using template thematic analysis of semistructured interviews, three shared stressors were identified: the suspension of competitions, uncertainty about logistics and career stability, and the loss of social opportunities. These stressors affected psychological well-being, interpersonal relationships, and team performance. Findings reveal various communal coping strategies including problem-focused efforts (e.g., effort expenditure), relationship-focused coping (e.g., team days), and communal emotional management (e.g., compassionate conversations). Leaders contribute to the communal coping process by fostering a positive social environment and initiating coping strategies. By introducing the concept of transactional space, this study highlights the importance of communication and group dynamics in coordinating efforts against adversity and suggests that training leaders could enhance team resilience.
A locally administered single-cycle influenza vaccine expressing a non-fusogenic stabilized hemagglutinin stimulates strong T-cell and neutralizing antibody immunity
Authors: Sadler Holly L. , Rijal Pramila , Tan Tiong Kit , Townsend Alain R. M.
Published: January 2025

Current influenza vaccination approaches protect against specific viral strains, but do not consistently induce broad and long-lasting protection to the diversity of circulating influenza viruses. Single-cycle viruses delivered to the respiratory tract may offer a promising solution as they safely express a diverse array of viral antigens by undergoing just one round of cell infection in their host and stimulate broadly protective resident memory T-cell responses in the lung. We have previously developed a vaccine candidate called S-FLU, which is limited to a single cycle of infection by inactivation of the hemagglutinin signal sequence and induces a broadly cross-reactive T-cell response and antibodies to neuraminidase, but fails to induce neutralizing antibodies to hemagglutinin after intranasal administration. This study describes the development of CLEARFLU, a derivative of S-FLU, which is designed to add a neutralizing antibody response to hemagglutinin. In contrast to S-FLU, which does not express a hemagglutinin molecule at the infected cell surface, CLEARFLU viruses express a stabilized non-fusogenic hemagglutinin. They are equally limited to a single cycle of infection, but induce a neutralizing antibody response to the expressed hemagglutinin in addition to the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) responses to internal proteins and antibodies to neuraminidase induced by S-FLU. This represents a notable advantage as CLEARFLU viruses may provide sterile immunity against strain-matched challenge as well as non-sterile protection against a broad range of influenza viruses.

IMPORTANCE

Influenza is a serious public health concern, causing seasonal epidemics as well as pandemics in people. Influenza can also cause severe agricultural losses due to its circulation in farmed poultry and swine. A major challenge in the control of influenza is the diversity of circulating viruses. Developing vaccines that stimulate immunity to a wide array of influenza viruses is therefore important for protecting human and animal populations from disease and death. In this study, we describe an approach for developing influenza vaccines that trigger immune mechanisms shown to induce broad protection against a diversity of viruses, while also conserving the strong protection against specific strains observed in existing vaccines.
APOBEC-1 cofactors regulate APOBEC3-induced mutations in hepatitis B virus
Authors: Chen Zhigang , Eggerman Thomas L. , Bocharov Alexander V. , Baranova Irina N. , Vishnyakova Tatyana G. , Patterson Amy P.
Published: January 2025

APOBEC3 proteins (A3s) play an important role in host innate immunity against viruses and DNA mutations in cancer. A3s-induced mutations in both viral and human DNA genomes vary significantly from non-lethal mutations in viruses to localized hypermutations, such as kataegis in cancer. How A3s are regulated remains largely unknown. Since A3s exist in complexes and belong to the same family as APOBEC-1 (A1), which requires cofactors to be functional, we investigated the role of A1 cofactors and other A3 potentially associated hnRNPs on A3 mutational activity using hepatitis B virus (HBV) cellular replication as a model. We found that A1-associated cofactors and other hnRNPs were involved in A3 mutational activity regulation, and their regulatory effect was dependent on the strength of A3 association with hnRNPs with an order of A3C > 3G>3B and A1 cofactors > other hnRNPs. A1 cofactors had a strong protein interaction with A3 and significantly increased A3 mutational activity by co-expression. Endogenous gene expression knockdown by siRNA had the opposite decrease effect. Disruption of the protein interactions between A3 and hnRNPs through A3G and A3B mutagenesis decreased A3 mutational activity significantly, even to a level of near total loss, indicating that A1 cofactors and hnRNPs are required for A3 mutational activity. HBV genome-wide mutation analyses showed that A1 cofactors significantly increased A3C accessibility to HBV (−)DNA and A3C-induced mutational efficiency to generate kataegis-like hypermutation. These data demonstrate that A1 cofactors and hnRNPs are closely associated with A3s and may play an important regulatory role under physiological conditions.

IMPORTANCE

As human host restriction factors, A3s play an important role against viral infections. A3s are also major mutagenic drivers of cancer. However, why A3-induced mutations vary significantly from non-lethal mutations in virus to localized hypermutations in cancer remains unknown. We found that A1 cofactor and other hnRNPs are not only associated with A3 complexes but also play important regulatory roles in A3-induced mutation activities. A1 cofactors like GRY-RBP significantly increased A3 accessibility and mutational efficiency to its single-strand DNA substrate during HBV reverse transcription to generate hypermutations. Disruption of the A3 protein association with hnRNPs by A3 mutagenesis diminished A3 mutational activity. This finding not only reveals a regulatory mechanism for A3-induced mutation but also indicates that A3-associated cellular factors can be a potential target for regulating A3-induced mutation for cancer therapeutics.
Description of the genome sequence of
Corynebacterium
species (Marseille-Q4381)
Authors: Boxberger Manon , Rivoire Stéphanie , Le Targa Lorlane , Cenizo Valérie , La Scola Bernard
Published: January 2025

In 2020, we isolated a
Corynebacterium
strain, Marseille-Q4381, from healthy skin. We describe herein its genome sequence and annotation characteristics.
Complete genome sequences of the
Paenibacillus kyungheensis
KACC 18744
T
,
Sphingomonas naphthae
KACC 18716
T
, and
Novosphingobium humi
KACC 19094
T
Authors: Choi Hyorim , Kim Seunghwan , Won Miyoung , Choi Yunhee , Lee Yonghoon , Kim Yiseul , Heo Jun
Published: January 2025

We report the whole genome sequences of
Paenibacillus kyungheensis
KACC 18744
T
,
Sphingomonas naphthae
KACC 18716
T
, and
Novosphingobium humi
KACC 19094
T
, to investigate the genomic diversity of bacterial type strains distributed in Korea.
Complete genome sequence of a polyhydroxyalkaonate-accumulating bacterium,
Schlegelella aquatica
HS-12-14, isolated from a Korean hot spring
Authors: Ganbat Dariimaa , Ganbat Sondor , Sung Jae-Yoon , Kim Seong-Bo , Lee Dong-Woo , Lee Sang-Jae
Published: January 2025

We present the complete genome sequence of polyhydroxyalkaonate-accumulating moderately thermophilic
Schlegelella aquatica
HS-12-14 strain, isolated from a Korean hot spring. These findings contribute to valuable insights into the biosynthesis of polyhydroxyalkaonates in thermophiles and enhance understanding of
Schlegelella
strains.
Environmental and population influences on mummichog (
Fundulus heteroclitus
) gut microbiomes
Authors: Ma Lei , Hahn Mark E. , Karchner Sibel I. , Nacci Diane , Clark Bryan W. , Apprill Amy
Published: January 2025

The mummichog,
Fundulus heteroclitus
, an abundant estuarine fish broadly distributed along the eastern coast of North America, has repeatedly evolved tolerance to otherwise lethal levels of aromatic hydrocarbon exposure. This tolerance is linked to reduced activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) signaling pathway. In other animals, the AHR has been shown to influence the gastrointestinal-associated microbial community, particularly when activated by the model toxic pollutant 3,3′,4,4′,5-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB-126) and other dioxin-like compounds. To understand host population and PCB-126 exposure effects on mummichog gut microbiota, we sampled two populations of wild fish, one from a PCB-contaminated environment (New Bedford Harbor, MA, USA) and the other from a much less polluted location (Scorton Creek, MA, USA), as well as laboratory-reared F2 generation fish originating from each of these populations. We examined the microbes associated with the gut of these fish using amplicon sequencing of bacterial and archaeal small subunit ribosomal RNA genes. Fish living in the PCB-polluted site had high microbial alpha and beta diversity compared to fish from the low PCB site. These differences between wild fish were not present in laboratory-reared F2 fish that originated from the same populations. Microbial compositional differences existed between wild and lab-reared fish, with the wild fish dominated by Vibrionaceae and the lab-reared fish by Enterococceae. These results suggest that mummichog habitat and/or environmental conditions have a stronger influence on the mummichog gut microbiome compared to population or hereditary-based influences. Mummichog are important eco-evolutionary model organisms; this work reveals their importance for exploring host-environmental-microbiome dynamics.

IMPORTANCE

The mummichog fish, a common resident of North America's east coast estuaries, has evolved the ability to survive in waters contaminated with toxic chemicals that would typically be deadly. Our study investigates how living in and adapting to these toxic environments may affect their gut microbiomes. We compared mummichogs from a polluted area in Massachusetts with those from a non-polluted site and found significant differences in their gut microbes. Interestingly, when we raised the next generation of these fish in a lab, these differences disappeared, suggesting that the environment plays a more crucial role in shaping the gut microbiome than genetics. Understanding these changes helps shed light on how animals and their associated microbiomes adapt to pollution, which can inform conservation efforts and our broader understanding of environmental impacts on host-microbe dynamics.