bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DNA-free CRISPR Genome Editing in Raspberry (Rubus idaeus) through RNP-mediated Protoplast Transfection and Comparison of Indel Analysis Techniques
Authors: Creeth Ryan , Thompson Andrew , Kevei Zoltan
Published: January 2025

Protoplast-based systems have been utilised in a wide variety of plant species to enable genome editing without chromosomal introgression of foreign DNA into plant genomes. This allows elite cultivars to be edited without further genetic segregation, preserving their unique genetic composition and their regulatory status as non-transgenic. This can be achieved by DNA-free genome editing in protoplasts, followed by regeneration. However, protoplast isolation presents a barrier to the development of advanced breeding technologies in raspberry and no protocol has been published for DNA-free genome editing in the species. Pre-assembled ribonucleoprotein complexes (RNPs) do not require cellular processing and the commercial availability of Cas9 proteins and synthetic guide RNAs has streamlined genome editing protocols. This study presents a novel high-yielding protoplast isolation protocol from raspberry stem cultures and RNP-mediated transfection of protoplast with CRISPR-Cas9. Targeted mutagenesis of the phytoene desaturase gene at two intragenic loci resulted in an editing efficiency of 19%, though estimated efficiency varied depending on the indel analysis technique. Only amplicon sequencing was sensitive enough to confirm genome editing in a low efficiency sample. To our knowledge, this study constitutes the first use of DNA-free genome editing in raspberry. This protocol provides a valuable platform for understanding gene function and facilitates the development of precision breeding in this important soft fruit crop.
Antibacterial, antibiofilm and anti-quorum sensing activities of 1,2,3,5-tetrazine derivatives linked to a benzothiazole moiety
Authors: Dzoyem Jean Paul , Tsemeugne Joseph , Pone Kamdem Boniface , Foyou Meupiap Rostand , Kuate Boris Arnaud , Mkounga Pierre , Fekam Boyom Fabrice , McGaw Lyndy Joy
Published: January 2025

A series of known tetrazine derivatives, containing benzothiazole scaffold, were prepared during the coupling reactions of selected diazotized 2-aminobenzo[d]thiazole derivatives with p-acetaminophen. The as-prepared compounds were characterized based on NMR and MS spectrometry. The antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities of the synthesized compounds were evaluated by microdilution method, whereas the anti-quorum sensing effect was carried out using assay for the inhibition of violacein formation. As a result, compounds4a, 4band4crevealed minimum inhibitory concentrations and minimum bactericidal concentrations ranging from 8 to 128 µg/mL and from 32 to 256 µg/mL, respectively. Compounds4a(52-86.5%),4b(57.7-79.4%) and4c(59.9-80.3%) prevented biofilm formation in all the four bacteria tested with percentages of inhibition more than 50%. The concentrations of4a, 4band4cthat inhibited 50% of violacein production were found to be 62.71, 28.56 and 107.45 µg/mL, respectively, thus attesting that these compounds possess anti-quorum sensing activity. Noteworthy, our previous investigation attested that these compounds are non-cytotoxic on the human mammalian cells Vero.

This novel contribution demonstrates the antibacterial, antibiofilm and anti-quorum sensing activities of tetrazine-based benzothiazoles, which might be prospected as scaffolds for the discovery of efficient antibiotics with decreased risk of microbial drug resistance.
Q-score as a reliability measure for protein, nucleic acid, and small molecule atomic coordinate models derived from 3DEM density maps
Authors: Pintilie Grigore , Shao Chenghua , Wang Zhe , Hudson Brian P. , Flatt Justin W. , Schmid Michael F. , Morris Kyle , Burley Stephen K. , Chiu Wah
Published: January 2025

Atomic coordinate models are important in the interpretation of 3D maps produced with cryoEM and sub-tomogram averaging in cryoET, or more generically, 3D electron microscopy (3DEM). In addition to visual inspection of such maps and models, quantitative metrics convey the reliability of the atomic coordinates, in particular how well the model is supported by the experimentally determined 3DEM map. A recently introduced metric, Q-score, was shown to correlate well with the reported resolution of the map for well-fitted models. Here we present new statistical analyses of Q-scores based on its application to ∼10,000 maps and models archived in EMDB and PDB. Further we introduce two new metrics based on Q-score: Q-relative-all and Q-relative-resolution to compare a map and model to all entries in the EMDB and those with similar resolution respectively. We also explore through illustrative examples of proteins, nucleic acids, and small molecules how Q-scores can indicate whether the atomic coordinates are well-fitted to 3DEM maps and whether some parts of a map may be poorly resolved due to factors such as molecular flexibility, radiation damage, and/or conformational heterogeneity. Lastly, we show examples of how Q-scores can effectively be converted to atomic B-factors. These analyses provide a basis for how Q-scores can be interpreted effectively to evaluate 3DEM maps and atomic coordinate models prior to publication and archiving.

Synopsis

Q-scores are calculated each atom in models fitted to 3DEM (3D electron microscopy) maps. They measure how well the model fits the map, and also reflect the quality of the map as they correlate to resolution. Here we develop a statistical model for Q-scores applied to many maps and models in the EMDB (Electron Microscopy Database) and PDB (Protein Data Bank) respectively, and show how it can be used to assess the reliability of entire models as well as their subcomponents.
APE1 active site residue Asn174 stabilizes the AP-site and is essential for catalysis
Authors: DeHart Kaitlin M. , Hoitsma Nicole M. , Thompson Spencer H. , Borin Veniamin A. , Agarwal Pratul K. , Freudenthal Bret D.
Published: January 2025

Apurinic/Apyrimidinic (AP)-sites are common and highly mutagenic DNA lesions that can arise spontaneously or as intermediates during Base Excision Repair (BER). The enzyme apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1 (APE1) initiates repair of AP-sites by cleaving the DNA backbone at the AP-site via its endonuclease activity. Here, we investigated the functional role of the APE1 active site residue N174 that contacts the AP-site during catalysis. We analyzed the effects of three rationally designed APE1 mutations that alter the hydrogen bonding potential, size, and charge of N174: N174A, N174D, and N174Q. We found impaired catalysis of the APE1N174Aand APE1N174Dmutants due to disruption of hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions between residue 174 and the AP-site. In comparison, the APE1N174Qmutant was less impaired due to retaining similar hydrogen bonding and electrostatic characteristics as N174 in wild-type APE1. Structures and computational simulations further revealed that the AP-site was destabilized within the active sites of the APE1N174Aand APE1N174Dmutants due to loss of hydrogen bonding between residue 174 and the AP-site. Cumulatively, we show that N174 stabilizes the AP-site within the APE1 active site through hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions to enable effective catalysis. These findings highlight the importance of N174 in APE1’s function and provide new insights into the molecular mechanism by which APE1 processes AP-sites during DNA repair.
‘Munger’ black raspberry: Insights into its role as a virus indicator for Rubus species
Authors: Sierra-Mejia Andrea , Tzanetakis Ioannis E.
Published: January 2025

‘Munger’ black raspberry (Rubus occidentalis) has been a preferred indicator forRubusviruses. The working hypothesis behind the ‘Munger’ elevated susceptibility to viruses is its ability to sustain elevated virus titers; however, no research has yet explored this concept. To address this, we utilized an infectious clone of blackberry chlorotic ringspot virus to study the differences in virus expression between twoRubusspecies:R. occidentalis(‘Munger’) andR. L. subgenus RubusWatson (blackberry, ‘Natchez’). Our data demonstrate that virus accumulation in ‘Munger’ is over 47,300 times higher compared to ‘Natchez,’ enhancing our understanding of virus-host dynamics and providing valuable insights into why ‘Munger’ is a preferred indicator species for virus detection inRubusspp.
Quorum sensing mediates morphology and motility transitions in the model archaeonHaloferax volcanii
Authors: Chatterjee Priyanka , Consoli Caroline E. , Schiller Heather , Winter Kiersten K. , McCallum Monica E. , Schulze Stefan , Pohlschroder Mechthild
Published: January 2025

Quorum sensing (QS) is a mechanism of intercellular communication that enables microbes to alter gene expression and adapt to the environment. This cell-cell signaling is necessary for intra- and interspecies behaviors such as virulence and biofilm formation. While QS has been extensively studied in bacteria, little is known about cell-cell communication in archaea. Here we established an archaeal model system to study QS. We showed that forHaloferax volcanii, the transition from motile rods to non-motile disks is dependent on a possibly novel, secreted small molecule present in cell-free conditioned medium (CM). Moreover, we determined that this putative QS molecule fails to induce the morphology transition in mutants lacking the regulatory factors, DdfA and CirA. Using quantitative proteomics of wild-type cells, we detected significant differential abundances of 236 proteins in the presence of CM. Conversely, in the ΔddfAmutant, addition of CM resulted in only 110 proteins of significant differential abundances. These results confirm that DdfA is involved in CM-dependent regulation. CirA, along with other proteins involved in morphology and swimming motility transitions, is among the proteins regulated by DdfA. These discoveries significantly advance our understanding of microbial communication within archaeal species.
The thin descending limb of the loop of Henle originates from proximal tubule cells during mouse kidney development
Authors: Chung Eunah , Nosrati Fariba , Adam Mike , Potter Andrew , Sayed Mohammed , Humphreys Benjamin D. , Lim Hee-Woong , Hu Yueh-Chiang , Potter S. Steve , Park Joo-Seop
Published: January 2025

Background

The thin descending limb (DTL) of the loop of Henle is crucial for urine concentration, as it facilitates passive water reabsorption. Despite its importance, little is known about how DTL cells form during kidney development. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) studies have not definitively identified DTL cells in the developing mouse kidney.

Methods

We assembled a large scRNA-seq dataset by integrating multiple datasets of non-mutant developing mouse kidneys to identify developing DTL cells. To test whether DTL cells originate from proximal tubule (PT) cells, we generated a PT-specific Cre line,Slc34a1eGFPCre, and conducted lineage tracing of PT cells. Additionally, given that the transcription factor Hnf4a directly binds to theAqp1gene, we examined whether the loss of Hnf4a affectsAqp1expression in DTL cells.

Results

From our scRNA-seq dataset, we identified a small cluster of cells distinct from both the proximal tubule and the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle. Those cells exhibited high expression of DTL marker genes, includingAqp1andBst1. Notably, a subset of PT cells also expressed DTL marker genes, suggesting that PT cells may give rise to DTL cells. Using lineage tracing with theSlc34a1eGFPCreline, we found that DTL cells were positive for the Rosa26 reporter, confirming that DTL cells are descendants of PT cells. Furthermore, the loss of Hnf4a, a transcription factor essential for mature PT cell formation, disrupted properAqp1expression in DTL cells, providing additional evidence of a developmental link between PT cells and DTL cells.

Conclusion

Our findings shed new light on the developmental origin of DTL cells and highlight the importance of Hnf4a in regulating their formation.

Key Points

Reference single cell RNA-seq dataset of the developing mouse kidney was assembled and used to identify the thin descending limb of the loop of Henle.

Lineage analysis of proximal tubules in the mouse kidney shows that proximal tubule cells give rise to the thin descending limb of the loop of Henle.

Deletion of Hnf4a disrupts the expression ofAqp1in the thin descending limb of the loop of Henle, highlighting a developmental link between proximal tubules and the loop of Henle.
Monitoring monomer-specific acyl-tRNA levels in cells with PARTI
Authors: Pressimone Meghan A. , Schissel Carly K. , Goss Isabella H. , Swenson Cameron V. , Schepartz Alanna
Published: January 2025

We describe a new assay that reports directly on the acylation state of a user-chosen tRNA in cells. We call this assay 3-Prime Adenosine-Retaining Aminoacyl-tRNA Isolation (PARTI). It relies on high-resolution mass spectrometry identification of the acyl-adenosine species released upon RNase A cleavage of isolated cellular tRNA. Here we develop the PARTI workflow and apply it to understand three recent observations related to the cellular incorporation of non-α-amino acid monomers into protein: (1) the origins of the apparent selectivity of translation with respect to β2-hydroxy acid enantiomers; (2) the activity of PylRS variants for benzyl derivatives of malonic acid; and (3) the apparent inability ofN-Me amino acids to function as ribosome substrates in living cells. Using the PARTI assay, we also provide direct evidence for the cellular production of 2’,3’-diacylated tRNA in certain cases. The ease and simplicity of the PARTI workflow should benefit ongoing efforts to study and improve the cellular incorporation of non-α-amino acid monomers into proteins.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
An evolutionarily conserved microRNA, miR-185, regulates key pathways that may contribute to implantation failure.
Authors: Smith William , Edge Jessica C , Tinning Haidee , Butt Zenab , Deligianni Fani , Morales Cintili , Muter Joanne , Brosens Jan , Mascarenhas Mariano , Bhandari Harish , O'Connell Mary J , Lucas Emma , Simpson Nigel , Forde Niamh
Published: January 2025

Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is defined after three or more good quality embryo transfers following in vitro fertilisation without a successful pregnancy outcome. Many factors contribute to RIF however, the endometrial contribution remains unclear. Previous work by our group has identified a micro-RNA (miRNA) miR-185-5p as conserved across placental mammal irrespective of implantation strategies. We tested the hypothesis that miR-185-5p and the pathways it regulates, may be disrupted in the endometria of women with RIF. A human endometrial epithelial cells line (Ishikawa cells) was transfected with mimics or inhibitors for miR-185-5p for 24 (for implantation assay) or 48 hr (for proteomic analysis) along with non-targeting controls. There was a significant different in percentage attachment of BeWoW spheroids to cells transfected with miR-185-5p mimic compared to inhibitor (P<0.05). Transfection of epithelial cells with miR-185-5p altered expression of 1450 (mimic alone) and 509 (inhibitor alone) proteins respective of which, 146 were modified by both. Comparison of predicted targets of miR-185-5p, proteins modified by this study, and key endometrial genes from the literature determined genes and proteins associated with CNP family were further investigated in biopsies from individuals with (n=10) and without RIF (n=9) with CSNK1D expression significantly lower (p<0.05) in individuals with RIF. Collectively these data demonstrate that miR-185-5p modifies pathways that are important for successful implantation in humans.
Standardized and calibrated light stimuli via head-mounted displays for investigating the non-visual effects of light
Authors: Fernandez-Alonso Maydel , Spitschan Manuel
Published: January 2025

Light influences human physiology profoundly, affecting the circadian clock and suppressing the endogenous hormone melatonin. Experimental studies often employ either homogenous full-field stimulation, or overhead illumination, which are hard to standardize across studies and laboratories. Here, we present a novel technique to examine non-visual responses to light using virtual-reality (VR) head-mounted displays (HMDs) for delivering standardized and calibrated light stimuli to observers in a reproducible and controlled fashion. We find that VR HMDs are well-suited for delivering standardized stimuli defined in luminance and across time, with excellent properties up to 20 Hz. We examine melatonin suppression to continuous luminance-defined light stimuli in a sample of healthy participants (n=31, mean±SD age: 27.4±5.6), and find robust melatonin suppression in 27 out of 31 participants (87% of the sample). Our findings demonstrate that VR HMDs are well-suited for studying the mechanisms underlying human non-visual photoreception in a reproducible and standardized fashion.
The rice ethylene receptor OsERS1 negatively regulates the shoot growth and salt tolerance in rice seedlings
Authors: Morita Shigeto , Tanaka Soma , Tani Yuzuki , Nakamura Jun’ichi , Sato Masa H. , Satoh Shigeru , Masumura Takehiro
Published: January 2025

Ethylene is a gaseous plant hormone that regulates various aspects of growth and development. It promotes shoot growth in etiolated rice seedlings, which is crucial for seedling establishment and has significant agricultural implications. Of the five ethylene receptors in rice,OsERS1is the most abundantly expressed in seedlings. Therefore, we investigated the localization and role of OsERS1 in shoot growth. When expressed in rice protoplasts, OsERS1 was localized in the endoplasmic reticulum. Knockout mutants ofOsERS1exhibited enhanced shoot growth in etiolated seedlings under normal and ethylene-treated conditions. Additionally, the induction of ethylene-responsive genes was increased in the mutants, indicating an elevated ethylene response due toOsERS1knockout. The mutants also showed increased salt tolerance. In conclusion, our findings suggest that OsERS1 negatively regulates shoot growth and salt tolerance in etiolated rice seedlings.
Autonomous demon exploiting heat and information at the trajectory level
Authors: Monsel Juliette , Acciai Matteo , Sánchez Rafael , Splettstoesser Janine
Published: January 2025

We propose an electronic bipartite system consisting of a working substance, in which a refrigeration process is implemented, and of a nonthermal resource region, containing a combination of different thermal baths. In the working substance, heat is extracted from the coldest of two electronic reservoirs (refrigeration) via heat transport and particle transport through a quantum dot. This quantum dot of the working substance is capacitively coupled to the resource region. In such a setup, a finite cooling power can be obtained in the working substance, while the energy exchange with the resource region exactly cancels out, on average. At the same time, is always exchanged, even on average, due to the capacitive coupling between the two parts of the bipartite system. The proposed system therefore implements an autonomous demon with fully vanishing heat extraction from the resource. Unlike macroscopic machines, nanoscale machines exhibit large fluctuations in performance, so precision becomes an important performance quantifier. We give a comprehensive description of the thermodynamic performance of the proposed autonomous demon in terms of stochastic trajectories and of full counting statistics and demonstrate that the precision of the cooling power strongly depends on the operation principle of the device. More specifically, the interplay of information flow and counterbalancing heat flows dramatically impacts the trade-off between cooling power, efficiency, and precision. We expect this insight to be of relevance for guiding the design of energy-conversion processes exploiting nonthermal resources.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Measurement of the electric field distribution in streamer discharges
Authors: Guo Yihao , Limburg Anne , Laarman Jesse , Teunissen Jannis , Nijdam Sander
Published: January 2025

Using electric field induced second harmonic generation (E-FISH), we performed direction-resolved absolute electric field measurements on single-channel streamer discharges in 70 mbar (7 kPa) air with 0.2 mm and 2 ns resolutions. In order to obtain the absolute (local) electric field, we developed a deconvolution method taking into account the phase variations of E-FISH. The acquired field distribution shows good agreement with the simulation results under the same conditions, in direction, magnitude, and shape. This is the first time that E-FISH is applied to streamers of this size (>0.5 cm radius), crossing a large gap. Achieving these high resolution electric field measurements benefits further understanding of streamer discharges and enables future use of E-FISH on cylindrically symmetric (transient) electric field distributions.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Serendipitous high-resolution structure of Escherichia coli carbonic anhydrase 2
Authors: Rankin Michael R. , Smith Janet L.
Published: January 2025

X-ray crystallography remains the dominant method of determining the three-dimensional structure of proteins. Nevertheless, this resource-intensive process may be hindered by the unintended crystallization of contaminant proteins from the expression source. Here, the serendipitous discovery of two novel crystal forms and one new, high-resolution structure of carbonic anhydrase 2 (CA2) from Escherichia coli that arose during a crystallization campaign for an unrelated target is reported. By comparing unit-cell parameters with those in the PDB, contaminants such as CA2 can be identified, preventing futile molecular-replacement attempts. Crystallographers can use these new lattice parameters to diagnose CA2 contamination in similar experiments.
Hotel digital intelligence capability: dimension exploration and scale development
Authors: Dong Yuelei , Wang Meng
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore the dimensional structure of hotel digital intelligence capability and develop a measurement scale.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts qualitative and quantitative approaches to conduct an exploratory inquiry into the structural dimensions of hotel digital intelligence capability with the help of grounded theory. Based on this, several questionnaires were developed to test the measurement scale and verify its validity.

Findings

The results reveal that hotel digital intelligence capability comprises four dimensions: data collection and processing capability, customer service personalization capability, digital intelligence decision support capability and sustainable development capability. The measurement scale consists of four factors and 13 items, with reliability and validity tests demonstrating ideal levels.

Originality/value

This study not only provides a new perspective to understand hotel digital intelligence capability but also develops a corresponding measurement scale, laying a solid theoretical basis for hotel managers to scientifically evaluate this capability to achieve sustainable competitive advantage.
Prediction of pipe-jacking forces using a physics-constrained neural network
Authors: Rayner-Philipson Malachi , Sheil Brian , Zhang Pin
Published: January 2025

Purpose

A common design driver for pipe-jacking projects is the jacking force required to advance the tunnel boring machine and pipe string. Empirical methods are popular in industry but are well known to lack accuracy, while there is a strong desire to supplement such approaches with robust data-driven techniques, typically small construction datasets present significant challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

To address this challenge, this paper develops a physics-constrained neural network predictive model for pipe-jacking forces. Information used as input into the model includes principal design information and soil type.

Findings

The physics constrained model was found to predict jacking force to a higher accuracy than current industry practice and better discern meaningful patterns in data than a purely data-driven artificial neural network. The results reveal promising performance for this initial dataset such that there is motivation, as a longer-term objective, to train the present approach on a more comprehensive drive database for more reliable and cost effective solutions for new projects.

Originality/value

Novel contributions include (a) a bespoke framework to constrain a neural network using a pipe-jacking mechanistic model which includes stoppage-induced friction increases, (b) built-in model uncertainty for greater confidence in model outputs, (c) new historical drive data for model training and (d) one-hot encoding of soil type as a model input. The model is calibrated and validated against 14 tunnel drives across four different sites with four distinctive ground types.
Toward learning recovery: challenges of international students in China during COVID-19 online learning experience
Authors: Castulo Nilo Jayoma
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the vulnerability of international students’ education in our V.U.C.A (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity) world. It has challenged higher education institutions to deliver quality and equitable education aligned with Sustainable Development Goal no. 4. However, studies indicate that this pandemic has significantly impacted international students in terms of both policy implementation and academic experiences in online learning. Therefore, this study aims to explore the lessons learned from the online learning experience of international students studying in China during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed an online survey to explore international students’ experiences with online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using Microsoft Forms, it collected 125 responses from international students studying at Project 211 universities. The survey included responses from 67 male and 58 female international students. Among these, 80 students studied online from locations outside China, while 45 participated in online learning from within China.

Findings

The study revealed that international students in China faced significant challenges during online learning, including academic disruptions, technological barriers, financial strain and psychological stress, exacerbated by time zone differences and isolation. Despite these obstacles, students demonstrated learning resilience by employing strategies such as self-regulation, peer collaboration and skill development in technology use.

Originality/value

This study addresses the existing gap in proper support for international students, particularly during times of crisis. It highlights lessons learned from the pandemic and presents mitigation strategies based on the participants’ perspectives. These strategies aim to address the learning poverty identified by the World Bank.
How the covid pandemic has impacted the Hong Kong sports ecosystem
Authors: Li Tak-Nang
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to look into how the sports ecosystem in Hong Kong was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic as the case of Hong Kong is unique from many other developed cities. Parallel to the attack of the pandemic, the period between 2019 and 2022 has also seen a major social unrest and an abrupt change of political landscape that could have unneglectable influence on the long-term development of sports in the city.

Design/methodology/approach

In view of the limitation in data and material that are available shortly after the period of study, the paper compares regular government statistics before and during the period to reflect the notable changes that were brought about by the anti-COVID measures and subsequently the demographic change resulting from the mixed impact of the global pandemic and local politics. Views of relevant stakeholders were also sought to formulate and verify the observations and conclusions of the paper.

Findings

This paper finds the sports ecosystem of Hong Kong recovered quickly and effectively from the hit of the COVID pandemic and reveals at the same time that the demographic change incurred mainly by the social unrest and its aftermath could have a longer impact on the city’s sports development.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the early works to study sports development in Hong Kong from a social-political perspective.
Improving quality of support and staff culture in a supported living service: a practice example of tier 1 positive behaviour support
Authors: Hardiman Rebecca Lyndsey , Harding Cathy
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the approach taken to identify areas for development and to enhance positive practice, in line with a preventative tier 1 positive behaviour support (PBS) approach. The work was conducted within a supported living service, where 10 individuals with a learning disability reside.

Design/methodology/approach

The intervention was provided through a dedicated behavioural clinical specialist role over nine months. An initial assessment included measures evaluating PBS, active support and staff culture. Narrative themes were also noted from discussions with staff to deepen the understanding of informal staff culture. Together, this informed a programme of work guided by the setting of both individual and service-wide goals. Input included practice leadership, staff training, review of PBS plans and delivery of case workshops. Assessments were then repeated to evaluate the work completed.

Findings

There were indications of improvements in staff culture and practice following the intervention.

Originality/value

This practice example may be useful for other organisations to consider when thinking about how to use resources effectively to improve people’s quality of life and implement tier 1 of PBS provision.
Characteristics of suitable cases for treatment with nemolizumab based on clinical findings and cutaneous adverse events
Authors: Sugiyama Akiko , Yano‐Takamori Atsuko , Kojima Kaoru , Nishie Haruko , Nishimura Miku , Hiramoto Tetsuya , Nakahara Takeshi
Published: January 2025

Nemolizumab is an effective treatment for pruritus in atopic dermatitis, but it has a relatively high incidence of cutaneous adverse events (cAEs). To optimize the use of nemolizumab, we investigated the relationship between baseline severity in specific body areas and the frequency of cAEs. Our findings revealed that cases who discontinued treatment with nemolizumab had more severe erythema and edema/papulation on the trunk than those who continued nemolizumab. We also found that the score of excoriation on the trunk tended to be higher. These results indicate that patients with mild severity of eruptions on the trunk at initiation could be suitable for nemolizumab therapy, with the potential for long‐term continuation with the control of cAEs.
Reintegrative Retributivism
Authors: Ross Lewis
Published: January 2025

Pessimistic empirical evidence about the reformatory and deterrent effects of punitive treatment poses a challenge for all justificatory theories of punishment. Yet, the dominant progressive view remains that punishment is required for the most serious crimes. This paper outlines an empirically sensitive prospectus for justifying punitive treatment through understanding the importance of reintegration. On this view, punishment can be viewed as a preferred alternative to the rigours of social ostracism, a common way of dealing with offenders in lieu of formal criminal justice. Adopting reintegration as a primary aim encourages taking a longer view which focuses on desistance from criminality rather than only on reform at the point of release from formal punishment. The view outlined in this paper enables a vindication of reintegrative punishment even when it is not the most immediately efficient means of reforming offenders. In making this argument, I develop the modern retributive platform in criminal justice theory, identify various overlooked yet key nuances in the relationship between reintegration and reform, and argue for greater theoretical and practical attention to how the state can make the communities they serve more receptive to reintegrating offenders.
Intrauterine Contraction Monitoring in Chorioamnionitis: A Secondary, Blinded Analysis of a Randomised Controlled Trial Cohort
Authors: Juhantalo Milla , Hautakangas Tuija , Palomäki Outi , Uotila Jukka
Published: January 2025

Objective

To study the effects of chorioamnionitis on uterine activity and to investigate associations between external and intrauterine monitoring methods and neonatal outcomes.

Design

Secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial cohort.

Setting

Two labour wards, in a university tertiary hospital and a central hospital.

Population

Parturients with singleton pregnancies, gestational age ≥ 37 weeks and fetus in cephalic position. Clinical chorioamnionitis developed in 8.6% of cases (n = 130/1504).

Methods

Analyses of uterine activity (contractions/10 min or intrauterine pressure in Montevideo units) during the 4 h before birth adjusted for maternal characteristics and intrapartum factors.

Main Outcome Measures

Uterine activity with or without chorioamnionitis and the intervention of external versus intrauterine monitoring in relation to fetal distress (admission to neonatal intensive care with umbilical artery pH ≤ 7.10 or 5‐min Apgar score < 7), stratified by chorioamnionitis status.

Results

Uterine contraction frequency/10 min decreased in labours with chorioamnionitis during the final hour preceding birth (4.2 [SD 1.1] vs. 3.9 [SD 1.2], adjusted regression coefficient −0.383, 95% CI −0.654 to −0.112, p = 0.006) compared to non‐infected labors. In chorioamnionitis cases, mean frequency/10 min during last 4 h was higher with external versus intrauterine monitoring (4.2 [SD 0.8] vs. 3.8 [SD 0.9], MD 0.39, 95% CI 0.02–0.76, p = 0.038), and the intrauterine monitoring group had a lower incidence of fetal distress (6.7% vs. 23.1%, OR 0.24, 95% CI 0.07–0.79, p = 0.013).

Conclusions

Chorioamnionitis impairs uterine activity. Intrauterine monitoring may provide more accurate contraction analysis than external tocodynamometry and help reduce fetal compromise during labours complicated by chorioamnionitis.
The more things change, the more they stay the same: A multi‐wave national assessment of police academy training curricula
Authors: Sloan John J. , Paoline Eugene A. , Nobles Matt R.
Published: January 2025

Research Summary

Using secondary data from a census of 421 police academies nationwide continuously operating between 2002 and 2018, we assessed continuity and change in core areas of basic law enforcement training (BLET) of new police hires. Despite decades of concerns expressed by national‐level commissions, scholars, and practitioners about the substance of police academy basic training, ours is the first study since the 1980s that examines the content of basic training at multiple police academies during an extended period that included two eras of policing: community oriented and evidence based. Results showed continuity throughout time in total required hours of BLET, including required hours of core curriculum training, and a disproportionate distribution of total training hours allotted to areas central to the crime fighter persona of the early 20th century professional era.

Policy Implications

This assessment revealed strong empirical evidence of long‐term resistance to change in police basic training based on continuing overemphasis of traditional aspects of basic training (e.g., use of lethal weapons) over other parts (e.g., community‐oriented policing). Our results, combined with recent qualitative analyses of police basic training revealing a primary “danger imperative” message broadcast to trainees by instructors along with more subtle racist and sexist messages about “bad guys” wanting to kill cops, reveal that decades of efforts to get the occupation to change what new police officers learn during basic training is apparently the equivalent of what Dorothy Guyot once termed “bending granite”—an effort doomed to fail. To weaken the granite, police practitioners and leaders involved with training must take steps toward a complete and comprehensive reorientation of police recruitment and basic training that stresses the importance of new hires acquiring a toolkit that has a guardian‐based foundation and emphasis but allows for the rare instances when officers need to use warrior tools.
Assessment of Exhaled Breath Condensate for ALK, RET, ROS1, and NTRK1 Fusion Transcript Detection in NSCLC: Comparison With Tissue and Liquid Biopsy Samples
Authors: Tetik Vardarlı Aslı , Karakus Haydar Soydaner , Korba Korcan , Boluk Burcu , Ozgur Su , Gunduz Cumhur , Pelit Fusun , Veral Ali , Goksel Tuncay
Published: January 2025

Background

Lung cancer continues to be the primary cause of cancer‐related deaths globally, with the majority of cases identified at advanced stages. Genetic alterations, including mutations and gene fusions, are central to its molecular pathogenesis. The discovery of therapeutically targetable gene fusions, such as ALK, RET, ROS1, and NTRK1, has significantly advanced lung cancer management. Conventional methods, such as tissue biopsies, are invasive and unsuitable for continuous molecular monitoring. Consequently, noninvasive approaches, such as liquid biopsies and exhaled breath condensate (EBC), offer promising options for real‐time molecular surveillance.

Methods

This study evaluates the feasibility of identifying fusion transcripts in 30 patients with lung adenocarcinoma by using next‐generation sequencing (NGS) on formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissue, plasma, and EBC samples.

Results

Clinically significant fusion transcripts, including KIF5B‐ALK, KIF5B‐RET, and SQSTM1‐ALK, were detected across different sample types. EBC samples showed strong concordance with tissue biopsy results, particularly in detecting ALK, ROS1, and RET fusions, and demonstrated greater sensitivity than plasma in detecting NTRK1 fusions. Additionally, 30 fusion transcripts of uncertain clinical significance were identified, highlighting the need for further research into their role in lung cancer pathogenesis.

Conclusion

In conclusion, EBC samples provide a valuable, noninvasive medium for detecting clinically relevant and previously uncharacterized fusion transcripts in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The high concordance between EBC and tissue biopsies suggests that EBC could complement tissue biopsy for effective diagnosis and monitoring of NSCLC. These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive molecular profiling using multiple sample types to enhance diagnostic precision and optimize therapeutic outcomes in lung cancer management.
“Accounting” in retrospect: A personal reflection about change, contribution, and opportunity following decades of immersion
Authors: Deegan Craig
Published: January 2025

This paper, based upon my Plenary Address at the 2024 Accounting and Finance Association of Australia and New Zealand Annual Conference, documents my reflection of the evolution in accounting that has occurred over the last 40 years. While the research and teaching of accounting has evolved, many gaps are evident. Applying a four‐step accountability model, opportunities for future research and teaching are identified. Factors influencing research and teaching agendas, and our propensity to address gaps, are explored. This paper is a useful resource for teachers and researchers of accounting, students and people seeking some tips about potential accounting research topics.
The effect of a brief intervention video on gambling advertising resistance: Results of a randomized, on‐line experimental study
Authors: Torrance Jamie , Russell Alex M. T. , Heath Conor , Newall Philip
Published: January 2025

Background and aims

Gambling advertising is nowadays prevalent in multiple jurisdictions and can take multiple forms, such as TV adverts and social media promotions. However, few independently designed interventions for gambling advertising have been empirically tested. We aimed to measure the effectiveness of an inoculative intervention video for gambling advertising, which was developed based on previous interventions for alcohol and tobacco, and which used input from academics and experts by experience.

Design

Between‐participants randomised online experiment.

Setting

UK.

Participants

UK‐based gamblers aged 18–29 years (n = 1200) were recruited via Prolific.

Intervention

Participants either saw a novel inoculative intervention video (7.2 mins) aimed at increasing resistance against gambling advertising strategies (n = 595) or a neutral control video (7.2 mins) on healthy eating (n = 605).

Measurements

Participants completed pre‐ and post‐test measures of gambling advertising scepticism and persuasion knowledge immediately before and after video exposure. They also answered the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) and reported their past‐month engagement with gambling promotional offers. A random subset of participants (n = 797) recompleted these measures at one‐month follow‐up.

Findings

The intervention group's post‐test scores were statistically significantly higher than control for scepticism [estimated marginal means (EMM) = 40.32 vs. EMM = 34.72; P < 0.001, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 4.90–6.29, ηp2 = 0.17] and persuasion knowledge (EMM = 20.77 vs. EMM = 16.71; P < 0.001, 95%CI = 3.61–4.50, ηp2 = 0.21). One‐month follow‐up scores also remained statistically significantly higher in the intervention group compared with control for both scepticism (EMM = 38.26 vs. EMM = 34.73; P < 0.001, 95%CI = 2.70–4.36, ηp2 = 0.08) and persuasion knowledge (EMM = 18.63 vs. EMM = 17.21; P < 0.001, 95%CI = 0.88–1.95, ηp2 = 0.03). Within the intervention group, 21% of participants had stopped engaging with gambling promotional offers at one‐month follow‐up, reflective of a statistically significant reduction compared with control (EMM = 0.48 vs. EMM = 0.87; P < 0.001, 95%CI = −0.53 to −0.26, ηp2 = 0.04). Overall, the control group showed no statistically significant changes in any of their scores throughout the study period.

Conclusions

An inoculative intervention video appears to increase young gamblers' resistance to gambling advertising and reduce their self‐reported engagement with promotional offers.
Embracing the mental health challenges of uterus transplant candidates
Authors: Rabbani Muhammad Umaid , Randolph Brittney , Fry Samantha , Boydston Emily A. , Porrett Paige M.
Published: January 2025

Uterus transplantation (UTx) has emerged from clinical trials and is expected to become the standard of care for uterine factor infertility. Uterus transplant candidates historically have had to meet strict eligibility criteria to participate in clinical trials. Continued application of psychologic selection criteria from clinical trial may hinder the expansion of UTx. UTx candidates come with unique mental health challenges, having a higher incidence of mental health problems than the general population. We posit in this commentary that broadening psychological inclusion criterion and provision of mental health support will enhance access to UTx. At the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), candidates are not required to mention mental health comorbidities at initial screening. Regardless of their mental health comorbidity status, all recipients at the UAB have had a successful uterus transplant. Outcome of a live birth has also not been affected. Perioperative mental health challenges are successfully managed with a support of psychologists and psychiatrists.
Lithic analysis in African archaeology: Advances and key themes
Authors: Olszewski Deborah I. , Beyin Amanuel , Pargeter Justin
Published: January 2025

Stone artifacts (lithics) preserve for extended periods; thus they are key evidence for probing the evolution of human technological behaviors. Africa boasts the oldest record of stone artifacts, spanning 3.3 Ma, rare instances of ethnographic stone tool‐making, and stone tool archives from diverse ecological settings, making it an anchor for research on the long‐term temporal and spatial trends in human evolution. This paper reviews the application of scientific methods for studying African stone artifacts and highlights several popular research themes on the continent, including the origins of flaked stone technology, hunter‐gatherer mobility and landscape use, technological variability, function, biocultural evolution, and ancient human cognition. We conclude by outlining some key challenges to future lithic research in Africa.
Funding, Publication Rate and Characteristics of Paediatric Sleep Apnea Clinical Trials: A Cross‐Sectional Analysis
Authors: Puyo Elizabeth M. , Carnino Jonathan M. , Rodriguez Lara Frances , Levi Jessica R.
Published: January 2025

Objective

The objective of this study is to characterise available clinical trial information for paediatric obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and identify opportunities for future research to better treat children with this condition.

Methods

A cross‐sectional analysis of paediatric OSA clinical trials was conducted using the International Clinical Trials Registry. Criteria for inclusion included sleep apnea trials with participants < 18 years old and an interventional design. We assessed the information available on the database to identify recent trends in research. We used PubMed to examine publication rate. NIH RePORTER was used to characterise funding patterns for trials conducted in the United States.

Results

Of 91 trials analysed, 54% of trials were conducted in the United States. The number of paediatric OSA clinical trials has been increasing since 2005. Patients aged 6, 7 and/or 8 were enrolled in 70% of trials, whereas infants under 12 months of age were only represented in approximately 9%. Overall, 31.9% had results reported directly on the registry, while 57% had results published. Median time to trial completion by sponsor for US trials was 3.04 years for NIH‐sponsored trials, 1.29 years for industry‐sponsored trials, and 1.96 years for non‐funded sources. The NIH funded 56% of US trials.

Conclusion

Despite a growing interest in paediatric OSA, continued focus on reporting and publishing results in a timely manner is essential to further advance the care of children with OSA. Future research should aim to address the gaps in age representation and focus on early intervention to treat age groups with higher prevalence.