Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 2052-0492 14 1 2026 Sequence and timing of organ donation discussions in brain-dead donors: a subanalysis of the J-RESPECT study 76 EN Tetsuya Yumoto Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Hiromichi Naito Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Mineji Hayakawa Department of Emergency Medicine, Hokkaido University Hospital Shoji Yokobori Department of Emergency Medicine, Hokkaido University Hospital Kei Nishiyama Division of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science Takahiro Atsumi Department of Emergency and Disaster Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine Osamu Tasaki Acute and Critical Care Center, Nagasaki University Hospital Junya Tsurukiri Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center Mariko Hayamizu Department of Emergency Medicine, Hokkaido University Hospital Shimon Murahashi Acute and Critical Care Center, Nagasaki University Hospital Munehiro Hayashi Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Japanese Red Cross Medical Center Takeshi Nishimura Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo Emergency Medical Center Yukari Goto Department of Emergency Medicine, Nagoya Ekisaikai Hospital Hiromichi Narumiya Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Japanese Red Cross Kyoto Daini Hospital Atsushi Mizutani Department of Emergency Medicine, Hamamatsu Medical Center Mamoru Miyajima Emergency and Critical Care Center, Nagaoka Red Cross Hospital Junya Shimazaki Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Kansai Medical University Medical Center Takeshi Miura Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba Hospital Nozomu Shima Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Wakayama Medical University Kazuki Deuchi Division of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science Hitomi Nakayasu Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Seirei Hamamatsu General Hospital Hitoshi Kano Department of Emergency Medicine, Hokkaido University Hospital Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Atsunori Nakao Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University J-RESPECT study group Background The optimal timing of organ donation discussions in patients with catastrophic brain injury remains unclear. In Japan, national guidance recommends providing information after recognition of a state compatible with brain death; however, real-world practice has not been well characterized. This study aimed to evaluate the sequence of organ donation option presentation relative to clinical determination of a brain death-compatible state and to assess option presentation timing. Methods We conducted a multicenter retrospective cohort study using data from the J-RESPECT study, including adult brain-dead donors from 16 institutions in Japan between 2010 and 2023. Donors were classified as brain death-first (option presented after clinical determination of a brain death-compatible state) or option-first (option presented before such determination). Mixed-effects logistic and linear regression models with random intercepts for institution were used to examine factors associated with presentation sequence and timing. Results Among 190 donors, 76 (40%) were classified as brain death-first and 114 (60%) as option-first. In mixed-effects logistic regression, age was the only independent factor associated with presentation sequence (adjusted OR 1.03 per year, 95% CI 1.00–1.07), while substantial between-institution variability was observed (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.32). Institutional timing policy was not significantly associated with presentation sequence. The median interval from admission to option presentation was 5 days in the brain death-first group and 2 days in the option-first group (p < 0.001). Conclusions Substantial inter-institutional variability exists in the sequence and timing of organ donation discussions in Japan. Further studies are needed to determine optimal approaches to organ donation communication and timing in clinical practice. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 1471-244X 26 1 2026 Timing of emergency department presentation and psychiatric consultation after self-harm or suicide attempts: a registry-based study in Japan 674 EN Shunta Jinno Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Tetsuya Yumoto Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takashi Hongo Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Hiromasa Yakushiji Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takafumi Obara Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Tsuyoshi Nojima Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Hiromichi Naito Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Atsunori Nakao Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Background Self-harm and suicide attempts are frequent causes of emergency department (ED) visits and are strongly associated with an elevated suicide risk. Early psychiatric evaluation in the ED can help reduce repeated self-harm; however, the relationship between presentation timing and psychiatric consultations remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the association between ED visit timing and the likelihood of psychiatric referrals among patients presenting with self-harm or suicide attempts in Japan. Methods This multicenter, registry-based cohort study analyzed data from the JAPAN Registry of Self-Harm and Suicide Attempt from December 1, 2022, to December 31, 2023. Patients presenting to EDs with intentional self-harm or suicide attempts were included. The primary outcome was psychiatric consultation within one day of presentation, analyzed by day and time of presentation using multiple logistic regression, adjusting for potential confounders. Results Of the 1,721 patients analyzed, the median age was 33 years, and 1,127 (65.5%) were female. A total of 1,199 patients (69.7%) received psychiatric consultations, while 522 (30.3%) did not receive a consultation within the next day after presentation. Hospital presentations on Saturdays (adjusted OR, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.20–0.75) and during 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. (adjusted OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.24–0.91) were associated with lower likelihoods of psychiatric consultations, using Monday and the 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. period as the reference, respectively. Conclusions Hospital presentations on Saturdays or evening hours were associated with reduced likelihoods of psychiatric consultations, highlighting disparities in access to care during off-hours. These findings may help inform efforts to improve resource allocation and flexible staffing to ensure timely and consistent psychiatric care in ED settings. Clinical trial number Not applicable. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. Acta Medica Okayama 1530-0293 54 6 2026 Institutional Variability in Brain-Dead Organ Donation Processes and Practices: A Multicenter Cohort Study 1319 1328 EN Tetsuya Yumoto Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Hiromichi Naito Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Mineji Hayakawa Department of Emergency Medicine, Hokkaido University Hospital Shoji Yokobori Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Nippon Medical School Kei Nishiyama Division of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science Takahiro Atsumi Department of Emergency and Disaster Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine Osamu Tasaki Acute and Critical Care Center, Nagasaki University Hospital Junya Tsurukiri Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center Mariko Hayamizu Department of Emergency Medicine, Hokkaido University Hospital Shimon Murahashi Acute and Critical Care Center, Nagasaki University Hospital Munehiro Hayashi Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Japanese Red Cross Medical Center Takeshi Nishimura Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo Emergency Medical Center Yukari Goto Department of Emergency Medicine, Nagoya Ekisaikai Hospital Hiromichi Narumiya Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Japanese Red Cross Kyoto Daini Hospital Atsushi Mizutani Department of Emergency Medicine, Hamamatsu Medical Center Mamoru Miyajima Emergency and Critical Care Center, Nagaoka Red Cross Hospital Junya Shimazaki Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Kansai Medical University Medical Center Takeshi Miura Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba Hospital Nozomu Shima Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Wakayama Medical University Kazuki Deuchi Division of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science Hitomi Nakayasu Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Seirei Hamamatsu General Hospital Hitoshi Kano Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Nippon Medical School Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Atsunori Nakao Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Japan Comprehensive Process for End-of-Life Care and Organ Donation after Brain Death (J-RESPECT) study group OBJECTIVES: To determine whether key institutional and clinical differences exist between highly and moderately active hospitals in Japan with respect to brain-dead organ donation practices. DESIGN: Retrospective multicenter cohort study. SETTING: Sixteen tertiary emergency and critical care centers across Japan. PATIENTS: All brain-dead organ donors from participating institutions who had at least one organ procured and transplanted between July 17, 2010, and December 31, 2023. Hospitals were categorized as highly active (≥ 14 donations) or moderately active (≤ 13 donations) during the study period. INTERVENTIONS: None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Institutional donation practices were compared, including donor management strategies, use of vasopressors and corticosteroids, time intervals in the donation process, and frequency of multidisciplinary team meetings. A total of 204 donors were included; the median age was 47 years (interquartile range, 37–56), and 92 (45.1%) were female. Donor characteristics were similar between groups. Vasopressin was used in nearly all donors, though dosing protocols varied. Corticosteroid use was significantly higher in highly active hospitals compared with moderately active ones (58.3% vs. 38.0%; p = 0.004). Time from admission to coordinator notification was similar; however, time to family consent (median, 8 vs. 5 d; p < 0.001) and time to organ procurement (median, 12 vs. 9 d; p = 0.006) were longer in highly active hospitals. These hospitals also conducted more multidisciplinary meetings during donor management (median, 2 vs. 0; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Highly active hospitals demonstrated more intensive donor management practices, longer timeframes for key donation steps, and greater multidisciplinary engagement. Standardization of donation practices may enhance efficiency and support broader dissemination of effective institutional strategies to improve brain-dead organ donation rates in Japan. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier B.V. Acta Medica Okayama 0300-9572 225 2026 Decline in rescue breathing and its impact on outcomes in pediatric out-of-hospital cardiac arrest due to drowning: a nationwide study, 2012–2023 111049 EN Takafumi Obara Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Tsuyoshi Nojima Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Naomi Matsumoto Kohei Tsukahara Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takashi Hongo Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Tetsuya Yumoto Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Atsunori Nakao Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Hiromichi Naito Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Background: Rescue breathing is considered essential in pediatric out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) due to drowning, a type of asphyxial arrest where hypoxia precedes circulatory collapse. However, the increasing promotion of compression-only CPR (CO-CPR) may have contributed to changes in bystander CPR practices, including a decline in rescue-breathing CPR (RB-CPR). Whether such temporal changes have influenced outcomes in pediatric drowning OHCA remains unclear. Methods: We analyzed nationwide data from the All-Japan Utstein Registry (2012–2023), including pediatric OHCA patients (≤17 years old) whose arrests were caused by drowning and received bystander CPR from laypersons. Patients were categorized into RB-CPR and CO-CPR groups. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality; secondary outcomes included prehospital absence of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and 30-day unfavorable neurological survival, defined as Cerebral Performance Category score 3–5. We used multivariable Poisson regression to estimate adjusted risk ratio (aRR) and conducted analyses by age and witnessed status. Results: Among 740 eligible patients, 41.6% received RB-CPR and 58.4% received CO-CPR. The proportion of RB-CPR declined over the study period. CO-CPR was associated with higher 30-day mortality (aRR 1.38, 95% CI 1.14–1.67), higher prehospital absence of ROSC, and worse neurological outcomes compared with RB-CPR. The adverse association of CO-CPR was most pronounced in unwitnessed arrests, where ventilation may be particularly important. Conclusions: In pediatric drowning OHCA, CO-CPR was associated with worse survival and neurological outcomes than RB-CPR. These findings underscore the necessity for rescue breathing and the importance of ventilation-focused bystander CPR training in pediatric and drowning-related scenarios. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 2304-8158 15 20 2026 Regional and Vintage-Associated Differences in Commercial Chardonnay Wines from the Shandong Peninsula and the Chugoku Region: Physicochemical, Volatile, and Sensory Profiles with Exploratory Associations with Growing-Season Climate 3627 EN Dongyue Yang Winegrape and Wine Technological Innovation Center of Shandong Province, Shandong Academy of Grape Yang Yang Winegrape and Wine Technological Innovation Center of Shandong Province, Shandong Academy of Grape Ruirui Li Winegrape and Wine Technological Innovation Center of Shandong Province, Shandong Academy of Grape Xiaohong Tang Winegrape and Wine Technological Innovation Center of Shandong Province, Shandong Academy of Grape Ke Zhong Winegrape and Wine Technological Innovation Center of Shandong Province, Shandong Academy of Grape Yoshiyuki Murata Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Fumio Fukuda Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Zhiyu Li Winegrape and Wine Technological Innovation Center of Shandong Province, Shandong Academy of Grape Yuxia Sun Winegrape and Wine Technological Innovation Center of Shandong Province, Shandong Academy of Grape Integrated assessments of commercial Chardonnay wines from East Asia remain limited. This study compared wines from eight wineries―four in the Shandong Peninsula (China) and four in the Chugoku region (Japan)―across two vintages (2022–2023), with one bottle analyzed per winery–vintage combination, yielding 16 commercial wine observations. Physicochemical, HS-SPME-GC-MS volatile, sensory, and growing-season climate data were integrated. Among the sampled commercial wines, Chugoku wines generally showed higher acid retention and stronger floral–citrus characteristics, whereas Shandong wines were more fruit-forward, with higher fruity ester contributions in several 2023 samples. Exploratory climate–composition analysis identified a negative association between GDD and total terpenoids after FDR correction, whereas other associations did not remain significant after multiple-testing correction. These results indicate regional and vintage-associated differences among the sampled commercial wines. Because vinification practices and post-bottling factors were not fully controlled, climate–composition relationships should be interpreted as exploratory rather than causal. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

公益社団法人日本都市計画学会 Acta Medica Okayama 0916-0647 61 3 2026 CIDパイロットプロジェクトとSpecial Rate型BIDおよび寄付金型BIDの比較分析 -オーストラリア・ニューサウスウェールズ州を対象として- 895 902 EN Hirofumi Hori Okayama University Tatsuya Kitano Okayama University 日本のエリアマネジメント負担金制度は、合意形成に要する高い同意要件が原因で停滞している。本研究は、オーストラリア・ニューサウスウェールズ州における三類型のBID（Business　Improvement District）を調査し、日本のエリアマネジメント活動の改善に資する提案を行うことを目的とする。調査の結果、制度は都市規模に応じて活用されていることが明らかとなった。地方都市では行政が主な権限を要する「Special Rate型BID」が展開されている一方、都市部では民間側が主な権限を要する「CIDパイロットプロジェクト」や「寄付金型BID」が展開されている。これらの知見に基づき、本論文は、地域の組織能力の成熟度に合わせて行政主導から民間主体へと体制を移行させる「段階的移行モデル」を提案する。柔軟かつ都市規模に適した制度選択を可能にすることは、導入障壁を下げ、日本の都市におけるエリアマネジメント活動を活性化させる上で不可欠である。 No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Okayama University Medical School Acta Medica Okayama 0386-300X 80 5 2026 Diabetes Mellitus as a Risk Factor for Severe COVID-19 and Pneumonia: A Comparison Between the Pre-Omicron and Omicron-Dominant Periods in Okayama City, Japan 279 288 EN Satoshi Miyamoto Department of Epidemiology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Naomi Matsumoto Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Toshiharu Mitsuhashi Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Medical Development Field, Okayama University Soshi Takao Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Original Article 10.18926/AMO/71337 Diabetes mellitus is a well-established risk factor for severe COVID-19; however, few studies have examined this association during the Omicron-dominant period. We conducted a population-based study using surveillance data from the Okayama City Public Health Center in Japan to compare the risk of severe COVID-19 and pneumonia among patients with diabetes mellitus between the pre-Omicron (March 2020–December 2021) and Omicron-dominant (January–September 2022) periods. Among 98,905 COVID-19 patients aged 10 years or older, we calculated adjusted odds ratios (aORs) controlling for age, sex, smoking status, comorbidities, obesity, and the number of COVID-19 vaccine doses received. In the pre-Omicron period, diabetes mellitus was significantly associated with severe COVID-19 (aOR: 1.36; 95% CI: 1.03-1.78), and this association persisted in the Omicron-dominant period (aOR: 1.54; 95% CI: 1.10-2.17). Similar findings were observed for pneumonia. The association was more pronounced among patients aged 40-69 years than among those aged 70 years or older. These findings suggest that diabetes mellitus remains an important risk factor for severe COVID-19 even during the Omicron-dominant period, highlighting the need for continued clinical vigilance and early intervention in patients with diabetes mellitus. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

IOP Publishing Acta Medica Okayama 0021-4922 65 7 2026 Study of preload mechanism for small piezoelectric transducers with hollow structure for cryogenic environments 07SP13 EN Souta Mimura Graduate School of Environment, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Takefumi Kanda Graduate School of Environment, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Daisuke Yamaguchi Graduate School of Environment, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kazuki Kubo Graduate School of Environment, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Shuichi Wakimoto Graduate School of Environment, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University In various industrial fields, cryogenic fluids such as liquid hydrogen and liquid nitrogen are increasingly used as fuels and refrigerants. To control the flow rate of those fluids, valves that can be operated in cryogenic environments are needed. In general, the miniaturization of the valve can be achieved by using a piezoelectric ceramic as an actuator to drive the mechanism. Additionally, the properties degradation can be suppressed by applying a preload to the piezoelectric ceramic. To miniaturize the piezoelectric actuator applying preload at low temperature conditions, we use differences in thermal expansion coefficients to apply preload to the piezoelectric ceramics. In this study, we have designed and fabricated a small piezoelectric transducer with a hollow structure for cryogenic environments by using this proposed structure. To evaluate the fabricated transducer, we have measured vibration velocity and estimated the acceleration in cryogenic environments. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 0289-0771 2026 Temporally structured plasticity in death-feigning behavior in response to nutritional conditions in Tribolium castaneum EN Kohjiro Shibuya Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kentarou Matsumura Department of General Systems Studies, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo Takahisa Miyatake Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Investment in antipredator behavior and foraging both directly influence fitness, yet these investments are often subject to trade-offs. In income-breeding species, individuals may initially prioritize foraging after adult emergence and subsequently increase investment in antipredator behavior as their nutritional condition improves. In this study, we investigated temporal changes in death-feigning behavior, an antipredator response, in the red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum from immediately after adult emergence. Both fed and starved individuals exhibited an increase in death-feigning duration with time after emergence. However, in starved individuals, this trend reversed after approximately 15 days, with a marked decline in duration. These results suggest that the increase in investment in death-feigning behavior early in adulthood is relatively inflexible, whereas behavioral responses become highly plastic in response to environmental conditions around day 15. Furthermore, individuals that were fed until day 18 before starvation showed a less pronounced behavioral change than those subjected to starvation from the beginning of the experimental period, suggesting that the timing of environmental exposure may influence subsequent behavioral responses. Together, these findings suggest that behavioral plasticity is not constant over time but is instead structured across developmental stages. We propose a novel conceptual framework, termed temporally structured plasticity (TSP), to describe this pattern. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 0289-0771 2026 Experimental evolution of female mating responses to infertile males in Tribolium castaneum EN Yui Fujii Faculty of Environmental, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yui Asano Faculty of Environmental, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kenta Kori Faculty of Environmental, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kentarou Matsumura Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo Yukio Yasui Faculty of Agriculture, Kagawa University Chihiro Himuro Okinawa Prefectural Plant Protection Center Yutaka Nakamoto Okinawa Prefectural Plant Protection Center Yoshitaka Sokei Okinawa Prefectural Plant Protection Center Takahisa Miyatake Faculty of Environmental, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University In many animal populations, infertile males―those unable to reproduce―are commonly present. If females mate exclusively with such males, they fail to produce offspring. How, then, do females deal with this situation? Distinguishing infertile from fertile males both before and after copulation is difficult for females. Here, we tested the hypothesis of bet-hedging polyandry, in which females mitigate the risk of reproductive failure by mating with multiple males, using experimental evolution in the red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum). Females were cohabited with males artificially sterilized by sublethal radiation and with untreated males at a 1:1 ratio (sterile:untreated). After more than 15 generations, females from the treatment strains did not avoid mating with infertile males, leading to reduced reproductive success. However, compared with the control strains, females from the treated strains tended to mate with a greater number of males. The results raise the possibility that increased polyandry (mating with multiple males) may evolve rather than relying on pre- or post-copulatory discrimination to mitigate the risk posed by infertile males. Bet-hedging is a strategy that spreads or minimizes risk under uncertainty, and these results are consistent with the hypothesis that polyandry can function as a bet-hedging strategy against uncertain male fertility. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 0340-5443 80 11 2026 No evidence for differential allocation or sex ratio adjustment in response to male attractiveness in the broad-horned flour beetle 132 EN Kensuke Okada Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Katsuya Kiyose Seibukasei Co., Ltd Masako Katsuki Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University Sexual selection theory predicts that females can enhance the benefits of mate choice by increasing reproductive investment (differential allocation) or by biasing offspring sex ratios toward sons (sex ratio adjustment) when mating with attractive males. Clear empirical support for these hypotheses has been documented in many vertebrate taxa, whereas relatively few studies have tested them in invertebrates. Here, we investigated whether females adjust reproductive investment and offspring sex ratio in response to male attractiveness in the beetle Gnatocerus cornutus. We assessed male attractiveness using copulation latency and examined its associations with female lifetime reproductive success, egg size, and offspring sex ratio under single-mating conditions. Our results, however, provide no support for either the differential allocation or sex ratio adjustment hypotheses: females did not alter reproductive investment or offspring sex ratio according to mate quality. In this species, male sexual phenotypes are strongly influenced by environmental conditions. Such phenotype–genotype mismatches may reduce the reliability of male traits as indicators of genetic quality and increase the likelihood of assessment errors by females. This may explain the absence of maternal allocation in relation to mate attractiveness in G. cornutus. Instead, previous work on this beetle indicates that females can secure genetic benefits by remating with more attractive males and biasing fertilization toward their sperm. Our findings therefore suggest that postcopulatory mechanisms, rather than differential maternal allocation, provide a more effective route for females to secure the benefits of mate choice in G. cornutus. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 1718-7729 33 6 2026 Limited Immune-Mediated Efficacy of Anti-PD-L1/VEGF in EGFR-TKI-Naïve Egfr-Mutant Lung Cancer with Non-Inflamed Tumor Microenvironment 315 EN Atsuko Hirabae Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Tadahiro Kuribayashi Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Shuta Tomida Center for Comprehensive Genomic Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Sachi Okawa Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takamasa Nakasuka Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Kazuya Nishii Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Jun Nishimura Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Go Makimoto Department of Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Kiichiro Ninomiya Center for Comprehensive Genomic Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Hisao Higo Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Kammei Rai Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Eiki Ichihara Center for Clinical Oncology, Okayama University Hospital Katsuyuki Hotta Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Masamichi Sugimoto Product Research Department, Kamakura Research Laboratories, Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Yosuke Togashi Department of Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Yoshinobu Maeda Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Katsuyuki Kiura Department of Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Kadoaki Ohashi Department of Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) show limited efficacy in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutant lung adenocarcinoma due to its non-inflamed tumor microenvironment (TME). While quadruple therapy combining chemotherapy, anti-programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) antibodies has shown inconsistent results in EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI)-pretreated patients, whether anti-VEGF therapy can modulate the intrinsic non-inflamed TME remains unknown. We employed an EGFR-TKI-naïve syngeneic Egfr-mutant mouse model and evaluated effects of anti-VEGF, anti-PD-L1, carboplatin, and paclitaxel as monotherapies and combinations, with TME analysis via immunohistochemistry (IHC), flow cytometry, and RNA sequencing. Anti-PD-L1 showed no antitumor effect, and adding anti-VEGF failed to convert the TME to an inflamed status. Although paclitaxel―but not carboplatin―combined with low-dose anti-VEGF inhibited tumor growth, adding anti-PD-L1 provided no benefit, indicating the anti-VEGF-A antibody evaluated here has a limited role in sensitizing tumors to anti-PD-L1 regardless of chemotherapy. CD8+ T-cell depletion did not attenuate the effect of paclitaxel plus low-dose anti-VEGF, and IHC and RNA sequencing revealed increased natural killer cell infiltration, suggesting a CD8+ T-cell-independent, innate immune mechanism. These findings provide preclinical evidence that the evaluated anti-VEGF has limited immunomodulatory activity in EGFR-TKI-naïve Egfr-mutant tumors with a non-inflamed TME, and suggest immunotherapeutic strategies beyond CD8+ T-cell-mediated immunity warrant investigation. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 0140-7791 2026 Natural Variation in Brachypodium distachyon Primarily Links Lignin Reinforcement to Rhizoctonia solani Resistance EN Rozi Fernanda Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Niranjan Mahadevan Tea Research Institute of Sri Lanka Megumi Watanabe Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Nanami Sakata Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Hidenori Matsui Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kazuhiro Toyoda Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yuki Ichinose Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yoshiteru Noutoshi Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 1012-2443 94 1 2025 An XAI-based meta-parameter tuning for time-series forecasting 1 18 EN Hiroyuki Nakagawa Okayama University Shimon Sumita Osaka University Ryuichi Iida Okayama University Tatsuhiro Tsuchiya Osaka University How can we efficiently determine meta-parameter values for deep learning-based time-series forecasting given a time-series dataset? This paper introduces Xtune, an efficient and novel meta-parameter tuning method for deep learning-based time-series forecasting, leveraging explainable AI techniques. In particular, this study focuses on optimizing the window size for time-series forecasting. Xtune determines the optimal meta-parameter value for these methods and can also be applied to tune the window size for anomaly detection methods that utilize deep learning-based time-series forecasting. Extensive experiments on real-world datasets and forecasting methods demonstrate that Xtune efficiently identifies the optimal meta-parameter value and consistently outperforms the existing methods in terms of execution speed. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Oxford University Press (OUP) Acta Medica Okayama 0032-0781 2026 Disrupted FLOWERING LOCUS C alleles from weedy radish enhance the florigenic potential of rootstocks for graft-mediated floral induction in Brassicaceae pcag119 EN Ko Motoki Graduate School of Environmental, Life and Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Saki Kobayashi Graduate School of Environmental, Life and Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kazusa Nishimura Graduate School of Environmental, Life and Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yu Kinoshita Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University Makoto Kashima Faculty of Science, Department of Biomolecular Science, Toho University Koichiro Ushijima Graduate School of Environmental, Life and Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Tanjuro Goto Graduate School of Environmental, Life and Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Ken-ichiro Yasuba Graduate School of Environmental, Life and Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Munetaka Hosokawa Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University Graft-mediated floral induction is a classical yet promising breeding technique that accelerates seed production and shortens generation time in crops. However, its application remains limited to a few species because floral induction is often unstable. Even among florally induced rootstocks, grafted scions can differ in their flowering response depending on rootstock genotype, but the genetic basis of this variation remains unclear. Here, using a Brassicaceae grafting model, we investigated two early-bolting radish (Raphanus sativus) accessions differing in their ability to induce flowering. We focused on a significant difference in FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) expression between these accessions and identified two quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with FT levels. Transcriptomic and genomic analyses revealed that both QTLs harbored previously unreported disrupted alleles of FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC) homologs, key floral repressors involved in vernalization, which showed reduced expression and produced defective transcripts. Grafting experiments demonstrated that these disrupted FLC alleles enhanced floral induction, with RsFLC1 having a major effect. Our results indicate that the FT expression threshold required for graft-mediated floral induction is higher than that for rootstock flowering itself and that this threshold is reached when FLC-mediated repression is substantially reduced. These alleles were inferred to have originated from weedy radish (Raphanus raphanistrum), likely contributing to early flowering in disturbed environments. This study suggests that exploring genetic variations in FT expression is an effective strategy to develop highly florigenic rootstocks, thereby broadening the application of graft-mediated floral induction in crop breeding. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 2751-1219 5 9 2026 Proton‐Radiation‐Tolerant Silicon Photonic Charge Sensor for Spacecraft Applications e70208 EN Wataru Takahama Department of Physics and Electronics, Osaka Metropolitan University Kosei Otsuka Department of Physics and Electronics, Osaka Metropolitan University Ayumi Ishihara Department of Physics and Electronics, Osaka Metropolitan University Rikuto Hojo Department of Space Systems Engineering, Kyushu Institute of Technology Tomofumi Mogami ElectrostaticEngineering DEPT, Kasuga Denki INC Kazuhiro Toyoda Department of Space Systems Engineering, Kyushu Institute of Technology Kohtaku Suzuki Research and Development, The Wakasa Wan Energy Research Center Yasushi Takahashi Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology,Okayama University Silicon waveguides are promising platforms for spacecraft potential sensing owing to their compactness and immunity to electromagnetic interference. However, proton-induced optical absorption in operating silicon waveguides has not been quantitatively clarified, despite their direct exposure to the space radiation environment during spacecraft operation. Here, we present a systematic elucidation of proton-radiation effects on a photonic charge sensor based on silicon photonic crystal waveguides. During proton irradiation at 20 keV, we quantitatively evaluate the increase in optical absorption under device operation and find that a fluence of 1.0 ×1014 cm－ 2 induces an additional absorption coefficient of approximately 0.41 cm－ 1 . We further demonstrate that the sensor retains its ability to measure spacecraft potential even after exposure to a high proton fluence of 1.0 ×1015 cm－ 2 , confirming its intrinsic radiation tolerance. These results establish the radiation robustness of silicon-waveguide- based sensing mechanisms and provide the first quantitative basis for implementing photonic charge sensors in radiation-rich spacecraft environments. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 2311-5521 11 9 2026 First-Order Wall-Slip-Induced Departure from Inverse-Cubic Scaling of Levitation-Pressure RMS in a Push–Pull Levitation Stage 218 EN Eisuke Umesaki Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Hiroki Suzuki Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Junji Sakamoto Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Toshinori Kouchi Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University This study clarifies how rarefaction-induced wall slip in a thin gas film affects the established inverse-cubic scaling law for the spatial nonuniformity of levitation pressure in a push–pull levitation stage. The levitation force in this stage is generated by the combined action of blowing and suction. The continuum-based stress description is retained, and only the wall boundary condition is changed from the no-slip condition to a first-order slip condition. Three-dimensional incompressible unsteady Stokes simulations in a thin-gap unit-cell model are combined with a lubrication-theory scaling analysis. The effects of levitation height, blowing-velocity distribution, port-radius ratio, and computational-domain width are examined systematically. The results show that wall slip has only a minor influence at relatively large levitation heights. As the levitation height decreases, however, rarefaction-induced slip increases the flow-rate conductance. Consequently, the intensity of the spatial variation in levitation pressure is systematically reduced below that predicted by the no-slip inverse-cubic scaling law. This departure is well described by a correction relation derived from the lubrication approximation and remains robust against changes in the prescribed blowing-velocity distribution and geometric conditions. These findings provide an incompressible baseline for predicting levitation-pressure nonuniformity within the nominal gap-based Knudsen-number range examined here. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 2666-5204 22 2025 Prevalence, characteristics, and outcomes of suicide-related out-of-hospital cardiac arrest among patients committing self-harm and suicide-attempts in Japan: A nationwide registry study 100923 EN Takashi Hongo Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine Tetsuya Yumoto Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine Shunta Jinno Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine Yuka Yamamura Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Epidemiology Takafumi Obara Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine Tsuyoshi Nojima Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine Kohei Tsukahara Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine Hiromichi Naito Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine Takashi Yorifuji Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Epidemiology Atsunori Nakao Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine Background: Suicide-related out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is characterized by extremely low survival rates and represents a considerable global public health concern. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, characteristics, and outcomes of suicide-related OHCA. Methods: This multicenter, retrospective cohort study is an analysis of data collected from the JAPAN Registry of Self-harm and Suicide Attempts. Patients were divided into two groups, the OHCA group and the non-OHCA group. The primary outcome was death at 30 days. Results: Among 1,960 self-harm and suicide attempts patients, 213 patients (10.9 %) were assigned to the OHCA group and 1,747 (89.1%) were in the non-OHCA group. Patients in the OHCA group were older (44 vs. 33 years old, p < 0.001), and the OHCA group had a higher proportion of males compared to the non-OHCA group (122 [57.3%] vs. 604 [34.6%], p < 0.001). Despite missing and unknown data, lower proportions of psychiatric consultation history (54 [30.8%] vs. 1177 [70.5%], p < 0.001), psychiatric hospitalization history (9 [5.1%] vs. 386 [23.1%], p < 0.001), and previous suicide attempts (16 [9.2%] vs. 807 [48.4%], p < 0.001) were observed in the OHCA group. Risk of death at 30 days was significantly higher in the OHCA group (200 [93.9%] vs. 31 [1.8%], p < 0.001). Conclusion: Suicide-related OHCA was rare and associated with poorer prognosis compared to patients without OHCA. It was more common in middle-aged men without a history of psychiatric care or prior suicide attempts, although the study was limited by missing data. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 1345-2630 2026 Macroscopic and microscopic visualization of Pseudomonas syringae pv. tabaci infection using complementary bioluminescent and fluorescent reporter systems EN Kana Kuroe Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Nanami Sakata Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yasuhiro Ishiga Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba Yoshiteru Noutoshi Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kazuhiro Toyoda Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yuki Ichinose Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Hidenori Matsui Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University The development of bioluminescent and fluorescent reporter systems has enabled visualization of plant-pathogenic bacterial infection dynamics, providing insights into detailed mechanisms of infection and potential applications for disease control. Pseudomonas syringae pv. tabaci 6605 (Pta) possesses quorum sensing systems and produces fluorescent pigments, which make it difficult to directly apply commonly used reporter systems. In this study, we first constructed a homologous recombination-based genomic insertion system for stable chromosomal integration of reporter genes in Pta. Using this system, we established a LuxCDABE bioluminescent system driven by the nptII promoter, which successfully enabled macroscale tracking of bacterial populations during infection. We then attempted to construct an sGFP fluorescent reporter using the same nptII promoter. However, the endogenous autofluorescence of Pta masked the sGFP signal, making quantitative detection difficult. To overcome this autofluorescence problem, we screened constitutively highly expression promoters based on transcriptome data and identified two effective promoters suitable for fluorescent monitoring of Pta infection. Together with the LuxCDABE system, this integrated platform provides comprehensive spatiotemporal analysis of virulence mechanisms and plant defense responses in the Pta pathosystem, with potential applicability to other plant-pathogenic bacteria. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

American Society for Microbiology Acta Medica Okayama 2576-098X 2026 Complete genome sequence of Helicobacter pylori strain NY43 harboring bacteriophage KHP30 e00747-26 EN Michiko Takahashi Department of Surgery, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University Hiromichi Maeda Department of Surgery, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University Satoru Seo Department of Surgery, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University Hiroaki Takeuchi Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Health and Science, International University of Health and Welfare Graduate School Jumpei Uchiyama Department of Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, Density and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Shigenobu Matsuzaki Department of Surgery, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University The Helicobacter pylori NY43 strain spontaneously releases the bacteriophage (phage) KHP30. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of H. pylori NY43. In addition to the chromosome of H. pylori NY43, we successfully obtained the complete sequence of the episomal prophage KHP30. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 0031-3998 2026 Long-term association between the COVID-19 pandemic and language development at 3 years of age EN Rumi Matsuo Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Naomi Matsumoto Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Kazue Nakamura Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Toshiharu Mitsuhashi Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Background: Few studies have examined the long-term association between the COVID-19 pandemic and language development in preschoolers or its effect modifiers. We therefore examined this association during health checkups of 3-year-olds in Japan. Methods: This repeated cross-sectional study included 40,898 3-year-olds who underwent checkups in Okayama City, Japan. We compared children examined before (2017–2019) and during the pandemic (2020–2023). The primary outcome was physician-determined risk of language difficulties. The secondary outcome was children’s infrequent questions using words such as “what,” “who,” and “where.” Modified Poisson regression estimated RRs adjusted for confounders. Subgroup analyses examined effect modification by sex, childcare setting, and family size. Results: The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with increased risk of language difficulties (RR 1.52, 95% CI 1.35–1.72). The association peaked in fiscal year 2021 and remained elevated throughout the pandemic. Secondary outcome showed elevated risk (RR 1.16, 95% CI 1.05–1.29). Girls and home-care children showed higher RRs than boys and preschool attendees. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with risk of language difficulties among 3-year-old children, with associations varying by sex and childcare setting. These findings suggest the importance of maintaining social interaction opportunities for young children during public health crises. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

The Korean Geriatrics Society Acta Medica Okayama 2508-4798 30 2 2026 Variation in the Association between Frailty and Disability over 10 Years: A Cohort Study 143 150 EN Akikazu Hagiyama Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Toshiharu Mitsuhashi Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Soshi Takao Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Background: Although frailty is associated with disability, its long-term persistence and changes over time remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the long-term association between frailty and the incidence of disability over a 10-year follow-up period, evaluating how this association changed over time. Methods: This cohort study was conducted in Okayama City, Japan. Community-dwelling older adults aged ≥65 years were included. Frailty was assessed using the Kihon Checklist, and disability was defined as a new certification for long-term care insurance. The association between frailty and disability was examined across five time periods (years 1–2, 3–4, 5–6, 7–8, and 9–10) using a marginal structural model with inverse probability of treatment weighting and inverse probability of censoring weighting. Results: The final analysis included 45,291 participants, with 17.3% classified as frail. The adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for the association between frailty and the incidence of disability gradually decreased over time but remained throughout the 10-year follow-up period. The adjusted ORs and 95% confidence intervals were 2.90 (2.55–3.29) for years 1–2, 2.40 (2.09–2.75) for years 3–4, 2.03 (1.76–2.34) for years 5–6, 1.75 (1.52–2.01) for years 7–8, and 1.58 (1.38–1.82) for years 9–10. Conclusion: Frailty was consistently associated with the incidence of disability over a 10-year follow-up period, with a stronger association in the earlier years and a gradual decline over time. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 0005-2728 1868 1 2027 Structural and functional analysis of a photosystem II mutant PsbA3-S264V 149607 EN Songbo Fan Advanced Research Field, Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Science, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yoshiki Nakajima Advanced Research Field, Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Science, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Koji Kato Advanced Research Field, Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Science, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Haowei Jiang Advanced Research Field, Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Science, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Pi-Cheng Tsai Advanced Research Field, Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Science, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Anqi Jia Advanced Research Field, Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Science, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Miwa Sugiura Proteo-Science Research Center, Ehime University Jian-Ren Shen Advanced Research Field, Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Science, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Photosystem II (PSII) catalyzes water oxidation and oxygen evolution by a light-induced electron transfer chain, leading to the generation of electrons, protons and dioxygen. D1-S264 is a residue located close to the QB-binding site, and mutation of this residue has been shown to bring significant effects on the electron transfer and oxygen-evolving activities. Here we analyzed the structure of a Thermosynechococcus elongatus mutant PsbA3-S264V by cryo-electron microscopy at 1.96 Å resolution, which showed significant changes in the structure surrounding the bicarbonate and QB-binding region. Due to change of Ser to Val, the hydrogen-bond between the QB carbonyl oxygen and S264 is altered, which changed the protonation pathway of QB from the original route of D1-H252 through D1-S264 to QB, to a new, longer and less efficient route of D1-H252 through D1-F265 to QB. Two residues, D1-E244 and D2-E242, changed their side chain orientations significantly. Among them, D2-E242 adopted two conformations, and both are largely deviated from the original structure. All these changes led to alterations in hydrogen-bonding networks of two channels, channel A and channel B, that connect the stromal surface to QB and may function to transport protons to protonate QB. Furthermore, isothermal titration calorimetry experiments showed a diminished 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1, 1-dimethylurea (DCMU) binding affinity of the mutated PSII, which may be explained by a structural rotation of D1-F255 in the mutant based on structural analysis of DCMU-bound PSII. These findings offer valuable insights into the functions of D1-S264 in QB protonation and function, as well as in the DCMU-binding. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Oxford University Press (OUP) Acta Medica Okayama 0366-7022 54 6 2025 Vesicle-combined PtBi/C catalyst for base-free conversion of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid upaf104 EN Toshinori Shimanouchi Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Koji Deguchi Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kazuma Yasuhara Division of Materials Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST) Yukitaka Kimura Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University A conversion of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5-frandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) was catalyzed by using a catalyst of PtBi-activated carbon (PtBi/C) combined with vesicles made of phospholipid. No alteration of the electron state of the PtBi/C by vesicles was observed. However, FDCA was obtained under mild-temperature and base-free conditions. The yield of FDCA depended on the hydration nature of vesicles. It was therefore suggested that vesicles gave bound water as a novel driving force for the reaction. The present finding would explore an application of vesicles to new catalytic reactions that are different from conventional biochemical reactions. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

American Geophysical Union (AGU) Acta Medica Okayama 0094-8276 53 13 2026 Limits of Water Storage in Stishovite at Deep Mantle Conditions e2025GL120078 EN Fei Wang Bayerisches Geoinstitut, University of Bayreuth Artem Chanyshev Bayerisches Geoinstitut, University of Bayreuth Lianjie Man Bayerisches Geoinstitut, University of Bayreuth Yunke Song Bayerisches Geoinstitut, University of Bayreuth Lin Wang Bayerisches Geoinstitut, University of Bayreuth Takayuki Ishii Institute for Planetary Materials, Okayama University Noriyoshi Tsujino Japan Synchrotron Radiation Research Institute Shrikant Bhat Deutsches Elektronen‐Synchrotron DESY Robert Farla Deutsches Elektronen‐Synchrotron DESY Tomoo Katsura Bayerisches Geoinstitut, University of Bayreuth The deep Earth water cycle is a key process in Earth's evolution. Stishovite has been proposed as a major carrier of water from the surface into the lower mantle. However, its role remains unclear because its water solubility is controversial. We investigated the water solubility of Al-free stishovite at pressures of 33–38 GPa and temperatures of 700–1200 K using in situ X-ray diffraction in an advanced multianvil apparatus. Water solubility is high, around 3 wt%, at 700 K but decreases rapidly with increasing temperature and becomes negligible (<1,000 ppm), at temperatures above 1000 K. These results suggest that pure stishovite is unlikely to transport significant amounts of water into Earth's lower mantle under comparable pressure-temperature conditions. Previously reported high water contents in pure stishovite under deep Earth conditions likely reflect the solubility of post-stishovite or experimental artifacts. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 2041-1723 17 1 2026 Water exchange process and bulk composition regulate slab dynamics and deep earthquakes 8291 EN Jintao Zhu Institute for Planetary Materials, Okayama University Renbiao Tao Center for High Pressure Science and Technology Advanced Research (HPSTAR) Lifei Zhang SKLab-DeepMinE, MOEKLab-OBCE, School of Earth and Space Sciences, Peking University Takayuki Ishii Institute for Planetary Materials, Okayama University Water strongly influences deep mantle processes, including geochemical cycles, slab dynamics, and deep-focus earthquakes. Yet the stability and interactions of hydrous minerals with nominally anhydrous minerals (NAMs) under the water-undersaturated conditions of subducting slabs remain unclear. Here we show, using high-pressure and high-temperature experiments on MgO–SiO2–H2O systems (~2 wt% H2O), that hydrous minerals progressively dehydrate in the mantle transition zone, transferring water to NAMs such as wadsleyite and ringwoodite, while the cold slab core stays nearly dry. Rapid dehydration near the top of the lower mantle may generate fluids linked to the deepest earthquakes. Our results indicate that dry olivine transformations, rather than dehydration embrittlement, likely trigger most deep-focus earthquakes, and that hydration variations in NAMs influence slab deformation and stagnation above 660 km. The bulk Mg/Si ratio controls hydrous mineral stability, suggesting harzburgite transports water more efficiently than peridotite. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 1612-9059 2026 Incidental detection of cancers during population-based endoscopic gastric cancer screening in Japan EN Kensuke Uraguchi Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine Kenta Hamada Department of Practical Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, Okayama University Naomi Matsumoto Department of Epidemiology, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine Toshiharu Mitsuhashi Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Mizuo Ando Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine Kenji Fujimoto Occupational Health Data Science Center, University of Occupational and Environmental Health Shunsaku Hayase Department of Epidemiology, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine Background Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy traverses the full upper aerodigestive tract, unlike radiography, potentially enabling incidental detection of non-gastric malignancies. However, its population-level incidental detection rate for non-gastric upper aerodigestive tract cancers has not been systematically quantified. The aim of this study was to compare endoscopic screening with radiography and quantify detection of non-gastric upper aerodigestive tract cancers in a population-based setting. Methods This population-based cohort study was conducted by linking the Okayama City municipal gastric cancer screening registry with the Kokuho Database (KDB) for fiscal years 2016–2021. Among 36,326 participants contributing 64,822 screening examinations (40,832 radiography; 23,990 endoscopy), diagnoses of oral cavity, pharyngeal, laryngeal, and esophageal cancer occurring within 2 months of screening were ascertained from the KDB. Generalized estimating equations with modified Poisson regression were used to estimate adjusted risk ratios (aRRs) comparing endoscopy with radiography. Results Endoscopic screening was significantly associated with higher composite incidental detection rates for non-gastric upper aerodigestive tract cancers (95.9 vs. 34.3 per 100,000 examinations; aRR 2.94, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.50–5.76; p = 0.002). Specifically, esophageal cancer detection was markedly higher with endoscopy (83.4 vs. 17.1 per 100,000; aRR 5.16, 95% CI 2.16–12.32; p < 0.001). No statistically significant differences were observed for oral cavity, pharyngeal, or laryngeal cancers. Conclusions Endoscopic gastric cancer screening is associated with substantially higher incidental detection of non-gastric upper aerodigestive tract cancers, particularly esophageal cancer. These findings suggest an additional detection value for endoscopy that extends beyond its primary gastric cancer target in organized screening programs. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 2673-9801 6 3 2026 The Antioxidant Activity of α-Tocopherol Metabolites in Comparison with the Parent Compound in Hepatocytes 26 EN Tomoka Nishio Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Kasumi Amako Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Daiki Moriya Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Shintaro Munemasa Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoshiyuki Murata Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoshimasa Nakamura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Toshiyuki Nakamura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University α-Tocopherol (αT) is the major form of vitamin E. Although it is metabolized in the liver when high levels of αT are present, the function of its metabolites has not yet been fully elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant activities of the αT metabolites, α-carboxyethyl hydroxychroman (αCEHC) and α-carboxymethylbutyl hydroxychroman (αCMBHC), in comparison with their parent compound. The pretreatment with αT and its metabolites showed a cytoprotective effect on the cytotoxicity induced by hydrogen peroxide in the mouse hepatoma Hepa1c1c7 cells. To elucidate the mechanism underlying the effect, in vitro assays and assessments of antioxidant-related genes and proteins were conducted. The in vitro assays showed that these compounds showed little scavenging activity against hydrogen peroxide but exhibited scavenging activity against DPPH radicals. On the other hand, assessments of antioxidant-related genes and proteins showed that αT and its metabolites significantly upregulated the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) possibly through activation of the transcript factor Nrf2. Moreover, the cytoprotective effects of αT and its metabolites against hydrogen peroxide were counteracted by HO-1 inhibitors. These results suggest that not only αT but also its metabolites are potential cytoprotective factors against oxidative stress-induced cytotoxicity, and that their effects are exerted not through a direct action of scavenging hydrogen peroxide in the body, but rather through the regulation of gene expression. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 1939-8425 19 1 2026 GWAS and Candidate Gene Prediction of Elemental Accumulation Traits in Rice Using a Multiparental Population 44 EN Qian Zhang Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Tomoyuki Furuta Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Kazunari Kashihara Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Daisuke Ogawa Institute of Crop Science, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization Junichi Yonemaru Research Center for Agricultural Information Technology, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization Jian Feng Ma Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Toshio Yamamoto Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Rice plants accumulate essential elements to sustain physiological processes during growth and development and to ensure the nutritional quality of the grain as a food source. However, the genetic basis of elemental accumulation and the interrelationships among elemental concentrations across different tissues remain poorly understood. To conduct breeding aimed at improving the absorption characteristics of multiple interrelated elements, genetic analysis using experimental populations that retain diversity while sharing the genetic background of cultivated varieties is effective. Here we show genetic variations in the concentrations of 13 elements (P, K, Ca, Mg, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mo, Mn, Ni, and Zn) in rice straw at the flowering stage and grain at the mature stage using a multi-parent advanced generation inter-cross (MAGIC) population that derived from eight cultivars including both Japonica and Indica. Comprehensive evaluation of the correlation coefficients revealed divergences in the association between grain and straw for several combinations of elements. Haplotype-based genome-wide association studies (GWAS) identified 51 and 53 quantitative trait loci (QTLs) in straw and grain, respectively. In total, the 104 QTLs were grouped into 19 clusters and 60 independent QTLs. By leveraging the haplotype information from the MAGIC population, 52 candidate genes associated with the accumulation of Ca, Mg, Cd, Cu, Fe, and Mo were efficiently predicted from these QTLs, including both previously reported and novel genes. Among them, OsMOT1;1 encoding a molybdenum transporter, was predicted to be within a QTL associated with Mo accumulation in grain on chromosome 8. OsACA9, a homolog of autoinhibited Ca²⁺-ATPases, was predicted within a QTL related to Ca accumulation in straw on chromosome 2. In addition, an unidentified gene, OsCML6, which is presumed to be involved in calcium signaling, was predicted to be a candidate for a Ca-accumulation QTL on chromosome 11. These findings offer insights into haplotypes and putative genes associated with element accumulation and trait interrelationships, providing valuable information for optimizing plant growth and enhancing grain nutritional quality in rice breeding programs. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

一般社団法人電気学会 Acta Medica Okayama 0385-4221 146 9 2026 多様な電力消費形態を考慮したスマートグリッド運用の最適化 864 876 EN Takaki Kawamoto Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yuriko Toda School of Creative Science and Engineering, Waseda University Takashi Hasuike School of Creative Science and Engineering, Waseda University 　This study examines an optimal operation model for a smart grid composed of multiple microgrids to promote renewable energy use in Japan. In Japan, about 70% of electricity is still supplied by fossil fuel power, while renewables account for only 18% despite a 36–38% target for 2030. Using demand and photovoltaic data from Setagaya Ward, we construct a system model with factory/office and residential microgrids and formulate a mathematical optimization model that considers power interchange, batteries and heat storage. Numerical experiments based on several case studies show the effectiveness of smart grid operation designed according to the proposed model in promoting renewable energy utilization and reducing total generation cost. In particular, the results show that increasing photovoltaic capacity, increasing the number of microgrids, and considering heat demand are all effective measures. However, these benefits depend on the season. Future work should extend the system model to account for seasonal variability and associated investment costs. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山大学大学院教育学研究科 Acta Medica Okayama 1883-2423 192 2026 ダンスを通じた共生社会の実現に向けた地域協働プロジェクト ― 岡山うらじゃ祭りにおけるインクルーシブダンス実践 ― 147 159 EN Risako YOSHIMURA The Joint Graduate School in Science of School Education, Hyogo University of Teacher Education Aito ODA Resorttrust, Inc. Wing In CHIU The Joint Graduate School in Science of School Education, Hyogo University of Teacher Education Sayaka TANIGAWA The Joint Graduate School in Science of School Education, Hyogo University of Teacher Education Haruko SAKO Faculty of Education, Okayama University 10.18926/bgeou/71151 　障がい者の文化芸術活動では，障がい者が創造や発信に主体的に関わることが重視されている。しかし，その一形態であるインクルーシブダンスを地域社会に開かれた文化活動へと展開する事例の分析は十分ではない。そこで本稿では，岡山県の「うらじゃ」祭りにおいて発足したインクルーシブ踊り連「一期一会～輪舞温羅」を対象に，インクルーシブうらじゃダンスの開発および実践過程を整理した。活動記録，映像記録，活動資料をもとに分析した結果，表現内容や実施方法，演舞環境が，参加者の心身の特性を踏まえて段階的に調整されていたことが明らかとなった。また，参加者の主観的運動強度は主に「楽」から「ややきつい」の範囲に分布し，活動満足度も高い傾向を示した。以上より，本プロジェクトは，地域文化を基盤としたインクルーシブな身体表現活動に関する基礎的知見を提供するものであると考えられる。 No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 1422-0067 27 17 2026 Assessment of the Association of Periodontitis and Diabetes Mellitus with Alzheimer’s Disease in a Mouse Model 7542 EN Momoko Nakahara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Kota Kataoka Department of Preventive Dentistry, Division of Dentistry, Medical Development Field, Okayama University Takayuki Maruyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Mohammad Nurhamim Department of Preventive Dentistry, Graduate School of Medicine Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Yixuan Zhang Department of Preventive Dentistry, Graduate School of Medicine Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Daiki Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Dental School, Okayama University Yoko Uchida-Fukuhara Laboratory of Biological Anthropology, Research Center for Integrative Evolutionary Science, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI Md Monirul Islam Centre for Policy Studies, University College Cork Manabu Morita Department of Oral Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Care Sciences, Takarazuka University of Medical and Health Care Takashi Saito Department of Neuropathology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University The purpose of the present study was to investigate how periodontitis and diabetes mellitus (DM) are associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) through microRNA (miRNA) using AD model mice. The experimental period was 8 weeks. Twenty-four male knock-in mice (B6-AppNL-G-F/NL-G-F/J) were divided into four groups: control group fed a normal diet (C), DM group fed a high-fat/sucrose diet (DM), periodontitis (P) group, and DM + periodontitis (DM+P) group. Memory performance was compared using the Y-maze test. Next-generation sequencing was performed on brain samples, and fold changes in miRNA expression were calculated by comparing the DM+P and C groups. Integrated miRNA–mRNA analysis identified putative miRNA-targeted mRNAs, and protein expression of the top candidate gene was assessed. Memory function in the DM+P group was significantly lower than in the C group. Among the seven mRNAs identified by the integrated analysis, Neurod1 showed the greatest decrease in expression, and it was predicted to be regulated by miR-693-3p. Neurod1 protein expression in the hippocampus was significantly lower in the DM+P group than the C group. Our results suggest that the combined exposure to periodontitis and DM was associated with AD-like pathological changes and identified the miR-693-3p/Neurod1 pair as a candidate regulatory axis. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 2076-2615 16 15 2026 The Impact of Cold Storage and Seasonality on Raw Cow Milk Microbiota, Assessed by Conventional and Viability PCR 2302 EN Phong Dinh Tran Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Takeshi Tsuruta Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Naoki Nishino Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University The microbiota of healthy Holstein cow’s milk was analyzed to evaluate the effects of immediate (freezing at the farm: on-site workflow) and delayed processing (freezing after cool transport: laboratory workflow) and to investigate seasonal changes in September, November, and January. Propidium monoazide (PMA) was also used to distinguish between viable and non-viable cells. Microbiota composition differed between the laboratory and the on-site workflow. After cool transport, the abundances of Lactobacillus and Turicibacter increased, while those of Streptococcus, Bradyrhizobium, and Acinetobacter decreased. Based on the β-diversity assessment, the difference between viable and non-viable cells was marginal compared with the difference between on-site and laboratory workflows. In the subsequent on-site workflow experiment, seasonal variation was clearly demonstrated. The relative abundances of Lactobacillus, Turicibacter, and Bacillus were high in September; Staphylococcus, Phenylobacterium, and Bradyrhizobium in November; and Phyllobacterium in January. The seasonal effect was greater than the PMA treatment effect. Despite the study’s limitations, such as a limited number of milk samples and data from only one farm with a single management system, our findings indicate that storage and transport at low temperatures could lead to inaccurate assessments, particularly of opportunistic environmental microbiota. Viability PCR could help improve our understanding of the factors involved but would not substantially alter the raw milk microbiota. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 1356-9597 31 5 2026 Transforming Life Science Through Chromosome‐Level Genome Assemblies e70145 EN Tetsuo Kon Department of Neurosciences and Developmental Biology, University of Vienna Kosuke Kataoka Graduate School of Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology Yi‐Jyun Luo Biodiversity Research Center, Academia Sinica Johannes Nicolaus Wibisana Genomics and Regulatory Systems Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University Kouhei Toga Laboratory of BioDX, PtBio Co‐Creation Research Center, Genome Editing Innovation Center, Hiroshima University Narumi Uno Laboratory of Bioengineering, School of Life Sciences, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences Yuki Monden Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science, and Technology, Okayama University Mayuko Hamada Ushimado Marine Institute, Okayama University Advances in long-read sequencing and Hi–C scaffolding have made chromosome-level genome assembly increasingly accessible to individual laboratories, shifting genome research from large consortium-led projects toward investigator-driven studies across diverse taxa. This transition allows researchers to select organisms based on biological questions rather than the prior availability of genomic resources. In this review, we summarize the core experimental and computational steps for generating, evaluating, and annotating chromosome-level assemblies, and examine how they have advanced research in non-model organisms and genetically complex systems. Representative case studies illustrate four major contributions: resolving structural variation and lineage-specific genome architecture, linking genome organization to phenotypic innovation and plasticity, reconstructing deep chromosome evolution and macrosynteny, and distinguishing homologous and homoeologous chromosomes in polyploid genomes. These examples show that chromosome-level assemblies provide more than complete reference sequences. They establish a continuous genomic coordinate system through which genes, regulatory elements, transposable element insertions, sequence variants, and cellular states can be interpreted within broader chromosomal, population, and evolutionary contexts. We describe this integrative perspective as “glocal biology.” Future progress will require pangenomic, population-scale, and haplotype-resolved resources integrated with multi-omics and functional analyses. Collectively, chromosome-level genomics is reshaping life science by embedding molecular functions within chromosomal and evolutionary contexts. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 2399-3642 8 1 2025 Structural insights into tRNA recognition of the human FTSJ1-THADA complex 893 EN Kensuke Ishiguro Laboratory for Protein Functional and Structural Biology, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research Atsushi Fujimura Department of Cellular Physiology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences Mikako Shirouzu Laboratory for Protein Functional and Structural Biology, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research tRNA undergoes various post-transcriptional modifications in the anticodon loop. FTSJ1, a protein conserved among most eukaryotes, mediates 2’-O-methylations at position 32 (Nm32) or position 34 (Nm34), complexed with THADA or WDR6, respectively. These methylations are crucial for accurate translation and cellular growth. FTSJ1 mutations are associated with non-syndromic X-linked intellectual disability. Although the structure of the FTSJ1-WDR6 complex in yeast has been solved, the structural details of the FTSJ1-THADA complex formation and substrate recognition remain unclear. Herein, using cryo-electron microscopy, we solve the high-resolution structure of FTSJ1-THADA with or without a tRNA substrate. FTSJ1 binds to THADA via its C-terminal region, with a unique interaction mode distinct from the FTSJ1-WDR6 complex. The tRNA substrate is anchored inside THADA, and key THADA residues for THADA-tRNA interaction are identified via structural and biochemical analyses. These findings demonstrate how FTSJ1 and THADA form a complex to mediate Nm32 modification in various tRNAs. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 2045-2322 15 1 2025 Amyloid-forming property of the N-terminal 1－70 residues of human apolipoprotein A-IV 13203 EN Norihiro Namba Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University Tokiko Danjo Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University Yuichiro Kitagawa Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University Yoshito Naito Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University Takashi Ohgita Center for Instrumental Analysis, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University Toshinori Shimanouchi Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Hiroyuki Saito Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University Apolipoprotein A-IV (apoA-IV), the largest member of the exchangeable apolipoprotein family, is a common constituent of amyloid deposits in renal and cardiac amyloidosis. In this study, we characterized the aggregation propensity of the apoA-IV N-terminal fragment to form amyloid fibrils using a variety of biophysical techniques. Thioflavin T fluorescence assay, circular dichroism measurement, and microscopic observations revealed that the N-terminal 1－70 amino acid fragment of apoA-IV readily forms amyloid fibrils by a transition from a random coil to a β-sheet-rich structure. Sequence-based analysis indicated that residues 7－16 and 38－42 are the major aggregation-prone segments within the N-terminal 1－70 residues of apoA-IV. Consistent with this, deletion of these residues strongly inhibited the β-transition and fibril formation of apoA-IV 1－70. Kinetic and thermodynamic analyses of fibril formation by the apoA-IV 1－70 fragment demonstrated that primary nucleation is the dominant step in fibril formation, for which the activation energy barrier is entirely entropic. In addition, we found that the presence of heparin, a representative glycosaminoglycan, accelerated fibril formation kinetics and enhanced the yield of apoA-IV 1－70 fibrils, and the positively charged residues K58-K59 play a critical role in heparin interaction. Overall, our results suggest that the strong amyloid-forming propensity of the N-terminal fragment of apoA-IV may play a key role in amyloid deposition associated with apoA-IV amyloidosis. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 1467-7644 2026 Identification of Critical Amino Acid Residues Required for the Polar Localization of a Rice Manganese Transporter EN Noriyuki Konishi Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Jian Feng Ma Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Rice has developed an efficient system for manganese (Mn) uptake, mediated by two distinct transporters, OsNramp5 and OsMTP9. These transporters exhibit polar localization at the root exodermis and endodermis; however, the mechanisms underlying their polar localization and their role in Mn uptake remain unclear. Here, we identified key amino acid residues critical for the polar localization of OsNramp5 at the distal side. Through analysis of chimeric proteins between OsNramp5 and its non-polar homologues, we found that the C-terminal cytosolic region of OsNramp5 is essential for its polar localization. Site-directed mutagenesis further revealed that aspartate 500 and four valine residues at positions 494, 495, 498 and 506 are crucial for polarity. Substitution of these valine residues with isoleucine, leucine, phenylalanine, or threonine partially or fully maintained polar localization, whereas substitution with alanine, serine, or asparagine resulted in loss of polarity. These findings suggest that β-branching and high hydrophobicity of amino acid side chains are likely required for OsNramp5 polarity. Furthermore, we found that adaptor protein 2-dependent clathrin-mediated endocytosis is not involved in the polar localization of OsNramp5. Finally, we provided experimental evidence showing the significant role of OsNramp5 polarity in efficient Mn uptake in rice; plants expressing non-polarly localized OsNramp5 exhibited reduced Mn uptake compared to those with polarly localized OsNramp5. In addition, we found that cadmium accumulation in shoots could be reduced by manipulating OsNramp5 polarity in combination with its overexpression, without a growth penalty. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Public Library of Science (PLoS) Acta Medica Okayama 1932-6203 21 8 2026 Study protocol: Effect of inulin supplementation on gut microbiota in patients with oral lichen planus ― A double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled parallel-group trial e0356180 EN Koki Nambu Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Division of Maxillofacial Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University Naoki Kaneko Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Division of Maxillofacial Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University Shiho Yokomizo Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Oncology, Division of Maxillofacial Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University Hu Chen Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Division of Maxillofacial Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University Lijing Yan Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Oncology, Division of Maxillofacial Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University Wang Shiyao Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Division of Maxillofacial Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University Ryusei Shizuma Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Division of Maxillofacial Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University Eiji Iwata Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Yukiko Ohyama Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Division of Maxillofacial Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University Shohei Akagawa Department of Pediatrics, Kansai Medical University Soichiro Ibaragi Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Shintaro Kawano Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Oncology, Division of Maxillofacial Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University Masafumi Moriyama Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Division of Maxillofacial Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University Oral lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory disease of the oral mucosa characterised by immune dysregulation, but its pathogenesis remains incompletely understood and no curative treatment has been established. Our previous work showed that patients with oral lichen planus exhibit gut dysbiosis, including reduced microbial diversity and depletion of butyrate-producing bacteria. Because butyrate promotes regulatory T-cell differentiation and supports immune homeostasis, targeting this dysbiosis may represent a microbiota-directed approach for immune modulation in oral lichen planus. This study aims to investigate the effects of inulin supplementation on the gut microbiota and related immune markers in patients with oral lichen planus. This multicentre, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled parallel-group trial will enrol 80 patients with oral lichen planus. Participants will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either inulin (8 g/day) or a maltose placebo for 4 weeks, in addition to standard care. The primary outcome is the change in the relative abundance of prespecified butyrate-producing gut bacteria from baseline to the end of intervention at Week 6. Secondary outcomes include changes in gut microbiota diversity, salivary microbiota composition, faecal short-chain fatty acid concentrations, peripheral blood regulatory T-cell counts, blood test parameters, and clinical symptoms of oral lichen planus. Analyses will follow the intention-to-treat principle, and between-group differences will be assessed using appropriate statistical methods. This trial is designed to evaluate, in a randomised placebo-controlled setting, whether a microbiota-directed intervention can modify gut microbial profiles and related immune markers in patients with oral lichen planus. The findings are expected to clarify whether inulin supplementation can modify gut microbial profiles and related immunological markers in patients with oral lichen planus. Trial registration: UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR), UMIN000060840, registered on 1 April 2026 (https://rctportal.mhlw.go.jp/detail/um?trial_id=UMIN000060840#). No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 2168-8184 17 1 2025 Association Between Dinner-to-Bed Time and Gastroesophageal Reflux-Related Diseases in Children e77709 EN Kensuke Uraguchi Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Naomi Matsumoto Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Toshiharu Mitsuhashi Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Soshi Takao Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Seiichiro Makihara Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Mizuo Ando Department of Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Introduction: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is characterized by esophageal mucosal injury due to the reflux of gastroduodenal contents. Typical symptoms include heartburn and acid regurgitation. In addition, gastroesophageal reflux (GER) can influence conditions such as otitis media, rhinitis, and asthma. This study aimed to examine the association between dinner-to-bed time and GER-related diseases, such as otitis media, allergic rhinitis, and asthma. Methods: This was a longitudinal cohort study using secondary data. Data were collected from a large-scale birth cohort study conducted in Japan including babies born in 2001 and 2010. Dinner-to-bed time was categorized as “longer dinner-to-bed time" (>120 minutes), “shorter dinner-to-bed time" (≤120 minutes or less), and “irregular dinner-to-bed time.” Modified Poisson regression with robust variance was used to estimate risk ratios (RRs). Results: A total of 60,392 children were included in this study. Children with shorter dinner-to-bed time had a higher risk of asthma (adjusted RR (aRR) = 1.10; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.03-1.18) than those with longer dinner-to-bed time. However, no significant association was observed between shorter dinner-to-bed time and otitis media or allergic rhinitis. Furthermore, supplementary analyses revealed that the risk of asthma was significantly higher in children born in 2001 (aRR = 1.13; 95% CI, 1.04-1.22). Conclusion: This study showed that dinner-to-bed time within 120 minutes after dinner increases the risk of developing asthma. This underscores the importance of considering lifestyle modifications, as certain pediatric asthma cases may be influenced by behaviors that promote GER. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Oxford University Press (OUP) Acta Medica Okayama 0032-0781 66 12 2025 ABA receptor isoforms differently regulate stomatal movements and generation of reactive oxygen species in ABA signaling in Arabidopsis guard cells 1811 1822 EN Ye Yin Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yuki Hayashi Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University Monira Sirajam Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Oumayma Shaiek Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Shintaro Munemasa Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoshimasa Nakamura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Toshinori Kinoshita Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University Yoshiyuki Murata Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Izumi C Mori Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University ABA signaling in stomatal guard cells is crucial for plants to cope with abiotic stress condition. Pyrabactin is a synthetic agonist of ABA that has a selective affinity to limited isoforms of ABA receptors. Here, we investigated the differential utilization of downstream signaling events in guard cell ABA signaling under specific receptor isoforms taking advantage of pyrabactin affinity. Pyrabactin-induced stomatal closure as well as ABA, while it did not inhibit stomatal opening. Plasma membrane inwardly rectifying K+ channel was not regulated by pyrabactin, while H+-ATPase activation was negatively regulated by pyrabactin. Pharmacological and molecular genetic evidence supported that reactive oxygen species production occurred differentially between the closure-inducing and opening-inhibiting signals in guard cells. These findings offer a previously unidentified mechanism for ABA signaling events promoting closure induction and opening inhibition of stomata, which were distinct from each other and governed by different ABA receptor isoforms discriminable by their affinity for pyrabactin. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

American Society for Horticultural Science Acta Medica Okayama 0018-5345 61 8 2024 Shoot-to-Root Ratio Serves as an Early Practical Indicator of Tipburn Risk in Lisianthus [Eustoma grandiflorum (Raf.) Shinn.] Seedlings 1884 1891 EN Nethone Samba Faculty of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Fukushima University Kureha Iki Fukushima Prefectural Iwaki Agriculture and Forestry Office Tanjuro Goto Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Minori Hikawa-Endo Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Ken-ichiro Yasuba Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yoko Miyama Faculty of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Fukushima University, Fukushima, 960-1296, Japan; and The United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Iwate University Tipburn is a calcium-related physiological disorder that reduces lisianthus seedling quality, yet the factors underlying cultivar differences remain unclear. This study evaluated 10 lisianthus cultivars to determine whether the shoot-to-root (S/R) ratio and key physiological traits influence tipburn susceptibility. Seedlings were grown in a closed production system with restricted root volume and once-daily irrigation to enhance symptom expression. The S/R ratio varied significantly among cultivars (2.82–4.02) and was strongly correlated with tipburn incidence (r = 0.744, P < 0.05) and severity (r = 0.706, P < 0.05). Cultivars with higher S/R ratios exhibited greater tipburn, whereas those with lower ratios showed little to no symptoms. Diurnal measurements of transpiration, stomatal conductance, leaf temperature, and electron transport rate revealed cultivar-specific physiological patterns; however, midday transpiration showed only a weak association with tipburn. These results indicate that biomass allocation, rather than physiological activity alone, is the primary factor governing tipburn susceptibility. The S/R ratio represents a simple and practical indicator for identifying high-risk cultivars in nursery production. Future studies should investigate the roles of calcium transport, developmental stage, and irrigation management in mitigating tipburn occurrence. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Frontiers Media SA Acta Medica Okayama 1664-462X 17 2026 Quantitative resistance to Rhizoctonia solani AG-4 develops independently in leaves and roots of Brachypodium distachyon 1875734 EN Rozi Fernanda Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Niranjan Mahadevan Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Natsuka Kohno School of Agriculture, Okayama University Reiko Nagao School of Agriculture, Okayama University Megumi Watanabe Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Nanami Sakata Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Hidenori Matsui Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kazuhiro Toyoda Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yuki Ichinose Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yusuke Kouzai Crop Stress Management Group, Division of Plant Molecular Regulation Research, Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO) Keiichi Mochida RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science Yoshiteru Noutoshi Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Rhizoctonia solani is a soil-borne phytopathogen with a broad host range, classified into multiple anastomosis groups (AGs). While the rice sheath blight pathogen AG-1 IA is well-studied, defense mechanisms against AG-4, which infects diverse monocots and dicots, remain unclear. Here, we screened 153 Brachypodium distachyon accessions for resistance to AG-4 HG-I+II using both leaf and soil inoculation assays. The accessions exhibited a quantitative resistance spectrum in both assays. Some accessions were resistant to both methods, while others showed resistance in only one, indicating that leaf and root defenses operate independently. Unlike the salicylic acid (SA)-dependent resistance observed in several accessions against AG-1 IA, AG-4 leaf resistance appears to be largely SA-independent. Among 22 resistant accessions, only eight induced the SA marker BdWRKY38, whereas twelve induced the jasmonic acid (JA) marker BdAOS. Additionally, resistance in Bd3–1 was unaffected by expression of the SA hydroxylase NahG. These results are consistent with previous findings that exogenous application of SA, JA, or ethylene fails to confer AG-4 resistance. Instead, most AG-4-resistant accessions showed common upregulation of cell wall biosynthesis-related genes following leaf infection, suggesting that cell wall fortification may contribute to defense against AG-4. These findings establish B. distachyon as a valuable model for dissecting resistance mechanisms against R. solani AG-4. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 0289-0771 2026 Sex differences and contest experience shape walking patterns in the broad-horned flour beetle EN Kentarou Matsumura Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo Sora Hashioka Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Naohisa Nagaya Faculty of Information Science and Engineering, Kyoto Sangyo University Ryusuke Fujisawa Faculty of Environmental Engineering, University of Kitakyushu, Takahisa Miyatake Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Animal movement patterns vary widely across species, and sex differences are often expected because males typically need to encounter multiple females and acquire resources. In species where males engage in male–male combat using exaggerated weapons, variation in weapon size and contest outcomes is known to influence male reproductive strategies, and may therefore also affect movement behavior. However, sex-specific and male-specific differences in locomotor behavior, particularly in relation to weapon size and social interactions, remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated walking trajectories in the broad-horned flour beetle (Gnatocerus cornutus) to test for (1) sex differences, (2) associations between male weapon size and movement behavior, and (3) the effects of male–male combat. Males exhibited more tortuous and localized movement, whereas females showed straighter and more spatially extensive trajectories. Following contests, all males showed a reduction in activity regardless of contest outcome; however, winners and losers exhibited divergent changes in movement patterns, with winners showing straighter and more spatially extensive trajectories and losers showing more tortuous and localized trajectories. In contrast, body-size-corrected weapon size was not associated with any aspect of walking behavior. These results indicate that locomotor behavior in G. cornutus varies with sex and contest experience, and that variation in walking behavior is more closely associated with social experience than with weapon morphology. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Oxford University Press (OUP) Acta Medica Okayama 0032-0781 2026 NIMA-related kinases redundantly regulate vegetative and reproductive development in Arabidopsis thaliana pcag056 EN Shogo Takatani Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Mai Kanazawa Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Okayama University Kotaro Sakamoto Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Okayama University Yuki Tomita Graduate School of Biostudies, Division of Integrated Life Science, Kyoto University Nozomi Kawamoto Graduate School of Biostudies, Division of Integrated Life Science, Kyoto University Tatsuya Sakai Graduate School of Science and Technology, Niigata University Takashi Araki Graduate School of Biostudies, Division of Integrated Life Science, Kyoto University Hiroyasu Motose Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Never-in-mitosis A-related kinases (NEKs) are conserved protein kinases in eukaryotes that regulate cell division and elongation. In Arabidopsis thaliana, NEK6 has been shown to control anisotropic growth through cortical microtubule depolymerization, but the functions of other NEK family members remain largely unknown. Here, we show that Arabidopsis NEKs redundantly regulate organ growth and flowering through phosphorylation-dependent mechanisms. Expression analyses revealed overlapping promoter activities of NEK genes in meristems, vascular tissues, and floral organs. While most single mutants showed no obvious phenotype, multiple mutants exhibited defects in root growth direction, leaf elongation, vascular formation, and floral transition. Biochemical analysis showed that NEK3 and NEK6 phosphorylate both β-tubulin and γ-tubulin, indicating a conserved role in microtubule regulation. In addition, several NEKs interacted with the florigen FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT), and NEK3 phosphorylated FT in vitro and inhibited the FT–FD interaction in transient assays, suggesting a role in flowering regulation. These findings show that Arabidopsis NEKs redundantly coordinate vegetative and reproductive development through phosphorylation-dependent regulation of microtubules and the flowering pathway. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 0300-9572 225 2026 Decline in rescue breathing and its impact on outcomes in pediatric out-of-hospital cardiac arrest due to drowning: a nationwide study, 2012–2023 111049 EN Takafumi Obara Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Tsuyoshi Nojima Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Naomi Matsumoto Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Kohei Tsukahara Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takashi Hongo Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Tetsuya Yumoto Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Atsunori Nakao Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Hiromichi Naito Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Background: Rescue breathing is considered essential in pediatric out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) due to drowning, a type of asphyxial arrest where hypoxia precedes circulatory collapse. However, the increasing promotion of compression-only CPR (CO-CPR) may have contributed to changes in bystander CPR practices, including a decline in rescue-breathing CPR (RB-CPR). Whether such temporal changes have influenced outcomes in pediatric drowning OHCA remains unclear. Methods: We analyzed nationwide data from the All-Japan Utstein Registry (2012–2023), including pediatric OHCA patients (≤17 years old) whose arrests were caused by drowning and received bystander CPR from laypersons. Patients were categorized into RB-CPR and CO-CPR groups. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality; secondary outcomes included prehospital absence of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and 30-day unfavorable neurological survival, defined as Cerebral Performance Category score 3–5. We used multivariable Poisson regression to estimate adjusted risk ratio (aRR) and conducted analyses by age and witnessed status. Results: Among 740 eligible patients, 41.6% received RB-CPR and 58.4% received CO-CPR. The proportion of RB-CPR declined over the study period. CO-CPR was associated with higher 30-day mortality (aRR 1.38, 95% CI 1.14–1.67), higher prehospital absence of ROSC, and worse neurological outcomes compared with RB-CPR. The adverse association of CO-CPR was most pronounced in unwitnessed arrests, where ventilation may be particularly important. Conclusions: In pediatric drowning OHCA, CO-CPR was associated with worse survival and neurological outcomes than RB-CPR. These findings underscore the necessity for rescue breathing and the importance of ventilation-focused bystander CPR training in pediatric and drowning-related scenarios. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 2045-2322 16 1 2026 Dual-calibration RT-qPCR reveals distinct dnaK1/2/3 and groEL1/2 expression dynamics under heat and acid stress in the sinefungin producer Streptomyces incarnatus 19282 EN Zhao Xiao-Hui Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Mao Kubo Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Haruka Yamagata Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yuriko Nakashima Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Tomohisa Hasunuma Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Tadayoshi Kanao Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Takashi Tamura Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Streptomyces incarnatus NRRL8089 produces sinefungin, a nucleoside antibiotic whose yield is enhanced under defined environmental stresses. Here, dual-calibration RT-qPCR was used to resolve paralogue-specific expression dynamics of the dnaK and groE chaperone systems under heat and acid stress conditions that increase sinefungin titres. The canonical dnaK1–dnaJ1 and groES–groEL1 operons exhibited moderate induction, whereas monocistronic paralogues (dnaK2, dnaK3 and groEL2) showed markedly higher inducibility, with up to ~ 125-fold increases relative to baseline expression. Promoter analyses revealed conserved inverted repeats and differences in predicted secondary-structure stability, suggesting that promoter architecture contributes to paralogue-specific responsiveness. Structural modelling indicated divergence among DnaK paralogues in regions associated with substrate interaction, whereas GroEL paralogues retained a conserved overall scaffold, consistent with kinetic rather than structural differentiation. Together, these findings indicate that duplicated paralogues are not functionally redundant but are differentially regulated to partition proteostasis capacity under stress. This paralogue-specific regulation may provide a framework linking environmental perturbation to secondary-metabolite production in actinomycetes. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 2045-2322 16 1 2026 Metastatic promoting role of mesenchymal stem cells in oral squamous cell carcinoma revealed by an improved bone marrow chimeric model 20445 EN Htoo Shwe Eain Department of Oral Pathology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University Hotaka Kawai Department of Oral Pathology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University Sho Sanou Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University Yamin Soe Department of Oral Pathology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University May Wathone Oo Department of Oral Pathology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University Tianyan Piao Department of Oral Pathology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University Zin Zin Min Department of Oral Pathology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University Kiyofumi Takabatake Department of Oral Pathology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University Keisuke Nakano Department of Oral Pathology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University Soichiro Ibaragi Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University Hitoshi Nagatsuka Department of Oral Pathology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are essential stromal regulators that coordinate tissue repair, angiogenesis, and immune balance. Within tumours, MSCs remodel the microenvironment and influence disease progression, yet their systemic contribution remains unclear due to the limited recovery of functional MSCs in conventional bone marrow transplantation models. Here, we developed an improved bone marrow collection (iBMC) method using enzymatic digestion, which markedly increases MSC yield while preserving their native phenotype. GFP bone marrow chimeric mice generated by iBMC and conventional transplantation displayed comparable hematopoietic reconstitution but differed in MSC abundance, enabling direct analysis of MSC-specific effects under physiological conditions. In mouse models of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), MSCs profoundly affected tumour development. MSC-deficient tumours exhibited necrosis and infiltration of immature myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), whereas MSC-rich tumours showed enhanced vascularisation, adaptive immune infiltration, and stromal remodelling. Notably, lung metastasis occurred only in MSC-rich mice, accompanied by bone marrow–derived endothelial activation and TNF-α–driven inflammation. Pharmacological inhibition of LepR signalling using SHU9119 unexpectedly increased metastasis, underscoring the dual, context-dependent functions of MSCs. These findings establish iBMC as a reproducible and physiologically relevant model to study MSC-mediated regulation of tumour immunity, angiogenesis, and metastasis. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

American Society for Microbiology Acta Medica Okayama 0066-4804 69 1 2025 Genomic epidemiology and genetic characteristics of clinical Campylobacter species cocirculating in West Bengal, India, 2019, using whole genome analysis e01108-24 EN Daichi Morita Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University Asish Kumar Mukhopadhyay Division of Bacteriology, ICMR - National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases Goutam Chowdhury Division of Bacteriology, ICMR - National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases Fumito Maruyama Section of Microbial Genomics and Ecology, The IDEC Institute, Hiroshima University Miyuki Kanda Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University Yuki Yamamoto Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University Hidetoshi Tahara Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University Piyali Mukherjee Division of Bacteriology, ICMR - National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases Mainak Bardhan Division of Bacteriology, ICMR - National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases Takanori Kumagai Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University Kei Kitahara Collaborative Research Centre of Okayama University for Infectious Diseases at ICMR-NICED Shin-Ichi Miyoshi Collaborative Research Centre of Okayama University for Infectious Diseases at ICMR-NICED Shanta Dutta Division of Bacteriology, ICMR - National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases Teruo Kuroda Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University Campylobacter species are the most common pathogens responsible for foodborne gastroenteritis worldwide. India is a region with frequent diarrheal infections and a high level of Campylobacter infection incidence, but the detailed genomic information is limited. This study aimed to characterize 112 isolates of Campylobacter from diarrhea patients at two hospitals in Kolkata, West Bengal, by whole genome analysis. The Campylobacter isolates consisted of 90 C. jejuni, 20 C. coli, and 2 C. lari isolates. Multilocus sequence typing analysis revealed that the largest sequence type (ST) populations were ST-2131 in C. jejuni and ST-830 in C. coli and seven novel STs were found in C. jejuni and one in C. coli. Notably, ST-2131, which is rarely seen elsewhere, was positive for a sialylated LOS-related gene (wlaN +neuA + cstIII) associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome. Antibiotic resistance factors predicted from the genome sequence included blaOXA variants (58.9%), tet(O) (54.5%), tet(W) (0.9%), ant(6)-Ia (0.9%), mutation in GyrA (T86I, T86I+D90N, T86I+P104S, T86I+D90N+P104S) (79.5%), and mutation in 23S rRNA (A2075G) (12.5%). In addition to the high drug resistance of Campylobacter in Kolkata, Campylobacter pathogens were circulating that may be associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome. This study indicates the importance of genomic analysis in the surveillance of pathogens, which provides genomic information on genetic diversity, virulence mechanisms, and determinants of antimicrobial resistance. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Oxford University Press (OUP) Acta Medica Okayama 1347-6947 88 10 2024 Evaluation of quercetin as a potential cytoprotector against acetaldehyde using the cultured hepatocyte model with aldehyde dehydrogenase isozyme deficiency 1199 1202 EN Yuhang Xu Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Takeshi Sawamoto Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Ruitong Sun Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Aki Ishikura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Shintaro Munemasa Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoshiyuki Murata Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Ayano Satoh Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University Akiko Matsumoto Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Saga University Toshiyuki Nakamura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoshimasa Nakamura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Protective effect of quercetin against acetaldehyde was evaluated using the cultured hepatocyte models with aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) isozyme deficiency (aldh2-kd and aldh1a1-kd). The quercetin-induced cytoprotection against acetaldehyde in the ALDH1A1-deficient mutant (aldh1a1-kd) was weaker than that in the wild type. Furthermore, quercetin did not enhance the ALDH activity in aldh1a1-kd cells, suggesting that ALDH1A1 is involved in quercetin-induced cytoprotection. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Oxford University Press (OUP) Acta Medica Okayama 1347-6947 88 8 2024 Negative regulation of chitosan-induced stomatal closure by glutathione in Arabidopsis thaliana 918 922 EN Israt Jahan Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Shintaro Munemasa Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Toshiyuki Nakamura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoshimasa Nakamura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoshiyuki Murata Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Chitosan (CHT) is a deacylated derivative of chitin and improves growth and yield performance, activates defensive genes, and also induces stomatal closure in plants. Glutathione (GSH) has significant functions in the growth, development, defense systems, signaling, and gene expression. GSH negatively regulates abscisic acid-, methyl jasmonate-, and salicylic acid-induced stomatal closure. However, the negative regulation by GSH of CHT-induced stomatal closure is still unknown. Regulation of CHT-induced stomatal closure by GSH in guard cells was investigated using two GSH-deficient mutants, cad2-1 and chlorina 1-1 (ch1-1), and a GSH-decreasing chemical, 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB). The cad2-1 and ch1-1 mutations and CDNB treatment enhanced CHT-induced stomatal closure. Treatment with glutathione monoethyl ester restored the GSH level in the guard cells of cad2-1 and ch1-1 and complemented the stomatal phenotype of the mutants. These results indicate that GSH negatively regulates CHT-induced stomatal closure in Arabidopsis thaliana. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 0803-5253 114 2 2024 Outdoor playing during preschool was associated with a reduced risk of school-age obesity in Japan 303 309 EN Takahiro Tsuge Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Naomi Matsumoto Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Soshi Takao Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Aim: This study investigated the association between outdoor play habits during preschool and school-age obesity. Methods: We conducted a longitudinal cohort study of all children born in Japan during 2 weeks in January and July 2001. We defined outdoor play habits at age 2.5 years (third survey) as exposure, while parent-reported height and weight at age 7 years (seventh survey) were defined as overweight and obesity status using the WHO reference. Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) for associations between preschool outdoor play habits and school-age obesity, adjusting for parental and child factors. Results: Of 53 575 children born, 42 812 had data on outdoor play habits at age 2.5 years, with 91% (38 970) having such habits. At age 7 years, 31 743/42 812 (74%) children had height and weight data, with 3249/31 743 (10%) classified as overweight or obesity (BMI SD score ≥1.0). Outdoor play habits were negatively associated with obesity (adjusted OR 0.85, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.74–0.97). Conclusion: Outdoor play habits in early preschool years are associated with a reduced risk of school-age obesity. Parents and caregivers may consider encouraging their children to outdoor play habits at an early age to help prevent obesity later in life. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Society for Human Environmental Studies Acta Medica Okayama 1348-5253 24 1 2026 Relationships between awareness of age-related change, subjective well-being, and psychological stress 69 77 EN Natsue Shiraishi Graduate School of Social and Cultural Sciences, Okayama University Allyson Brothers Human Development and Family Studies, Colorado State University Yasuhiro Yamamoto Faculty of Education, Okayama University Takeshi Nakagawa Graduate School of Human Sciences, University of Osaka Takashi Horiuchi Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Okayama University 本研究は、加齢に伴う変化の認識（Awareness of Age-Related Change: AARC）、主観的幸福感（Subjective Well-Being:SWB）、および心理的ストレスの縦断的関係の検討を行った。AARC は、ライフスパン発達理論に基づき、心理的適応に重要な役割を果たすとされる。先行研究ではAARC と幸福感の関連が報告されているが、多くは横断研究であり、時間的方向性を考慮した検討は不十分である。そこで本研究では、日本の40 歳以上の成人585 名を対象に、AARC 短縮版（AARC-10 SF）、人生満足度尺度（SWLS）、心理的ストレス尺度（K6）を用いて、2 時点（2022 年7 月、2023 年10 月）でオンライン調査を実施した。交差遅延効果モデルの分析の結果、AARC-gains とSWLS の間に双方向の関連が認められ、AARC-gains が高い人ほど後の主観的幸福感が高く、その逆も成立することが示された。一方、心理的ストレスはAARC-losses に対して一方向の関連が確認され、ストレスが高い人ほど後のAARC-losses が高いことが示された。これらの結果は、ライフスパン発達理論の枠組みと整合し、加齢に伴う適応過程の理解を深めるものである。介入においては、AARC-gains を促進し幸福感を高めることが高齢者のサクセスフル・エイジングに寄与する可能性がある。 No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 1756-4646 126 2025 Proteome analysis reveals the molecular mechanisms of fucoxanthin-induced apoptosis in glial cells PC12 after nanoencapsulation 106710 EN Chunyan Wang School of Food Science, Henan Institute of Science and Technology Xinxin Ma School of Food Science, Henan Institute of Science and Technology Yoshimasa Nakamura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Hang Qi SKL of Marine Food Processing & Safety Control, National Engineering Research Center of Seafood, Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, School of Food Science and Technology, Dalian Polytechnic University Fucoxanthin (FX) is a natural pigment belonging to the xanthophyll carotenoid, which has been proven to have inhibitory effects on glioblastoma. In our previous study, nano-FX was fabricated through whey protein and flaxseed gum co-encapsulated for improved stability and glial cell (PC12) inhibitory activity of FX. To investigate the molecular mechanisms of FX-induced apoptosis in PC12 after nanoencapsulation, proteomics analysis based on TMT technology was performed. Protein profiles in PC12 were determined after 0 (Control), 8 (L_Treat), and 24 (H_Treat) μg/mL nano-FX intervention. Results indicated 78 differential abundant proteins (DAPs) linked to the cytotoxicity of nano-FX could be potential biomarkers. GO and KEGG analysis revealed altered proteasome and NF-kappa B/MAPK/TNF. Proteins involved in cell proliferation were downregulated, while proteins response to autophagy and apoptosis were upregulated. The multiple mechanisms involved in the anti-tumor activity of nano-FX will provide a reference for the development of FX high value-added functional foods. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 2075-1729 16 6 2026 Disease-Suppressive Activity of Lecithin Against Foliar Infection by Rhizoctonia solani Isolates in Cabbage, Rice, and Brachypodium distachyon 998 EN Tran Xuan Cuong Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Misaki Asano School of Agriculture, Okayama University Daiki Honma School of Agriculture, Okayama University Moeko Soeda Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Megumi Watanabe Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Nanami Sakata Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Hidenori Matsui Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kazuhiro Toyoda Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan Yuki Ichinose Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kentaro Ikeda Faculty of Bioscience and Applied Chemistry, Hosei University Yoshiteru Noutoshi Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Rhizoctonia solani is a necrotrophic phytopathogenic fungus that causes disease in various crops. In agriculture, many crops suffer from root or seedling rot caused by this soil-borne pathogen, whereas cabbage and rice develop lesion-like symptoms on aboveground tissues. Diseases caused by R. solani are generally controlled using chemical fungicides; however, environmentally friendly alternatives are needed for sustainable agriculture. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of lecithin, a mixture of phospholipids previously registered in Japan as an agrochemical for controlling cucumber powdery mildew, against Rhizoctonia diseases. In cabbage, foliar spraying of 0.2–1.0% soybean lecithin effectively suppressed leaf symptoms caused by R. solani isolate RhiCa-2, which was identified as AG-1 IB. In rice and Brachypodium distachyon, 0.2–1.0% lecithin significantly suppressed leaf symptoms induced by R. solani AG-1 IA. Hyphal staining of inoculated leaves revealed reduced hyphal density on lecithin-treated leaves. Consistently, hyphal growth of R. solani on cellophane placed on water agar was retarded by lecithin treatment. However, 5.0% lecithin induced phytotoxicity in B. distachyon. Egg yolk-derived lecithin also exhibited disease-suppressive activity in cabbage and B. distachyon, with efficacy comparable to that of soybean lecithin under the conditions tested. These results suggest that lecithin suppresses foliar infection by R. solani, at least in part, through direct inhibitory effects on fungal hyphae, and may serve as a potential alternative material for disease control in sustainable crop production. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 2075-1729 16 6 2026 UGT76B1 and 41 Additional Arabidopsis UDP-Glycosyltransferases Show No Detectable In Vitro Glycosylation Activity Toward N-Hydroxypipecolic Acid 992 EN Jiyuan Bao Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Taiga Uchiyama Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kazuki Kusunoki Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yuka Shinohara Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yurika Tanigawa School of Agriculture, Okayama University Megumi Watanabe Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Nanami Sakata Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Hidenori Matsui Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kazuhiro Toyoda Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yuki Ichinose Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yoshiteru Noutoshi Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University N-hydroxypipecolic acid (NHP) is a key mobile signal in systemic acquired resistance in plants, and its glycosylation has been proposed to regulate immune signaling. Previous studies have demonstrated that the UDP-glycosyltransferase UGT76B1, known as an SA glycosyltransferase in Arabidopsis thaliana, also catalyzes NHP glycosylation. In this study, we re-evaluated NHP glycosylation activity of UGT76B1 using an in vitro enzyme-coupled fluorescence assay that quantitatively detects UDP released during UDP-sugar-dependent glycosylation. Unexpectedly, our biochemical analyses demonstrated that UGT76B1 lacks genuine glycosylation activity toward NHP under the in vitro assay conditions tested, although this system clearly detected UGT76B1 activity toward salicylic acid (SA), as well as the activities of UGT74F1 and UGT72B1 toward SA and hydroquinone, respectively. To explore potential UGTs responsible for NHP glycosylation, we evaluated the enzymatic activities of 41 UGT candidates successfully expressed in Escherichia coli, which are selected based on transcriptomic responses to tenoxicam treatment, molecular docking simulations using AlphaFold3/AutoDock Vina, phylogenetic criteria, and previous reports. Within this selected and successfully expressed UGT panel, none exhibited authentic NHP glycosylation activity, although this does not preclude the possibility that other members of the Arabidopsis UGT family possess NHP glycosyltransferase activity. Our findings challenge the prevailing view that UGT76B1 is the primary glycosyltransferase for NHP in A. thaliana and indicate that NHP metabolism may rely on undiscovered non-canonical enzymes or distinct metabolic pathways that warrant further investigation. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 1574-7891 2026 Stimulator of interferon genes agonist augmented antitumor immunity of osimertinib in Egfr ‐mutated lung cancer EN Jun Nishimura Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Tadahiro Kuribayashi Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Johannes Brägelmann Department of Translational Genomics Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne Germany Sachi Okawa Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Masataka Taoka Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Shunta Mori Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Tomoka Nishimura Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Takaaki Tanaka Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Go Makimoto Department of Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Kiichiro Ninomiya Center for Comprehensive Genomic Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Kammei Rai Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Eiki Ichihara Center for Clinical Oncology, Okayama University Hospital Ryohei Katayama Division of Experimental Chemotherapy, Cancer Chemotherapy Centre, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research Katsuyuki Hotta Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Masahiro Tabata Center for Clinical Oncology, Okayama University Hospital Yosuke Togashi Department of Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Yoshinobu Maeda Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Martin L. Sos Department of Translational Genomics Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne Germany Katsuyuki Kiura Department of Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Kadoaki Ohashi Department of Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutant non-small-cell lung cancers (NSCLCs) lack effective immunotherapy due to a noninflamed tumor microenvironment (TME). We previously reported that EGFR tyrosine-kinase-inhibitor (TKI) induced CD8+ T-cell immunity, which was insufficient for tumor eradication. We evaluated the potential of combining EGFR-TKI with stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists in activating a systemic antitumor response. Using a syngeneic mouse model of genetically engineered Egfr-mutant NSCLC, we evaluated the antitumor effects of STING agonist ADU-S100, alone and combined with osimertinib. Immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry were used to assess the TME. Osimertinib alone enhanced CD8+ T-cell infiltration but not Natural Killer (NK) cell infiltration. ADU-S100 injection alone modestly suppressed tumor growth with increasing CD8+/NK cell infiltration in the TME, but lacked an abscopal effect. Combining ADU-S100 with osimertinib significantly enhanced the antitumor effects and CD8+/NK cell infiltration. Depletion of either CD8+ or NK cells reduced the combination effect. Crucially, the combination induced an abscopal effect accompanied by PD-1+/CD8+ cell infiltration. Combining osimertinib with a STING agonist augmented innate and adaptive immunity, inducing systemic antitumor responses in EGFR-mutant NSCLC. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 1347-9032 2026 Afatinib Overcomes Osimertinib Resistance via Egfr V804F Mutation in a Syngeneic Egfr-Mutant Lung Cancer Mouse Model 1 17 EN Takaaki Tanaka Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Masato Fujitani Division of Experimental Chemotherapy, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research Masataka Taoka Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Iwao Shimomura Division of Experimental Chemotherapy, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research Sachi Okawa Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Shunta Mori Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Tadahiro Kuribayashi Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Jun Nishimura Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Tomoka Nishimura Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Ayako Morita Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Naofumi Hara Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Kiichiro Ninomiya Center for Comprehensive Genomic Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Go Makimoto Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Hisao Higo Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Kammei Rai Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Eiki Ichihara Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Shuta Tomida Center for Comprehensive Genomic Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Katsuyuki Hotta Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Yosuke Togashi Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Yoshinobu Maeda Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Katsuyuki Kiura Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Ryohei Katayama Division of Experimental Chemotherapy, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research Kadoaki Ohashi Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Osimertinib is the standard first-line treatment for advanced EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer. However, acquired resistance invariably develops, and identifying novel resistance pathways is clinically important as a substantial portion remains undefined. We used an immunocompetent syngeneic lung cancer mouse model harboring an Egfr exon 19 deletion (mDEL tumors) to establish acquired resistance. Osimertinib-resistant tumors were generated in vivo using a drug-holiday/re-challenge protocol. The resistance mechanism was identified using Sanger sequencing, receptor tyrosine kinase arrays, and western blotting. Egfr V804F knock-in cells were generated using CRISPR/Cas9, and their sensitivity to osimertinib and afatinib was assessed in vitro and in vivo. We established two distinct osimertinib-resistant tumor lines in a syngeneic lung cancer mouse model (mDEL OsiR #1/#3). The analysis revealed an on-target secondary Egfr V804F mutation (corresponding to human EGFR V802F) in both tumor lines. Importantly, Egfr V804F knock-in cells demonstrated significant osimertinib resistance, with a 5.7–10.5-fold increase in in vitro IC50 (mean, 8.2-fold), but remained highly sensitive to afatinib. Furthermore, afatinib effectively overcame osimertinib resistance in the V804F knock-in cell-derived mouse model. Consistently, afatinib treatment resulted in marked tumor shrinkage and suppression of EGFR signaling in the established mDEL OsiR #1/#3 in vivo. These findings establish secondary Egfr V804F/EGFR V802F as an on-target osimertinib resistance mechanism, providing a preclinical rationale for evaluating afatinib in biomarker-selected patients harboring this alteration. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 1422-0067 27 11 2026 Rice Genotype-Dependent Phyllosphere Microbiome Assembly and Isolation of Antagonistic Burkholderia for Sheath Blight Biocontrol 4879 EN Andrews Danso Ofori State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University Zohreh Nasimi State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University Muhammad Irfan Ahmed State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University Yaoting Yan State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University Wang Li State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University Abdul Ghani Kandro State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University Kazunori Okada Agro-Biotechnology Research Center, The University of Tokyo Keiichi Mochida Bioproductivity Informatics Research Team, RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science Yoshiteru Noutoshi Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Aiping Zheng State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University Rice sheath blight (RSB), caused by Rhizoctonia solani, causes 10–50% yield losses globally. Using 16S rRNA sequencing of 100 rice cultivars, we found that resistant varieties harbor significantly more diverse bacterial communities (3230 OTUs; 2064 unique) than susceptible cultivars (599 OTUs; 36 unique). Resistant varieties were enriched in beneficial Burkholderiaceae, Bacillaceae, and Pseudomonadaceae, while Sphingobacteriaceae and Enterobacteriaceae were predominant in the susceptible rice varieties. From the 260 bacterial isolates, Burkholderia vietnamiensis J14EPLEAF2 presented potent antifungal activity (77% inhibition), suppressed lesion development, and abolished sclerotia formation. This strain displayed multiple plant growth-promoting traits, enhanced seed germination, and primed defense responses by upregulating PR5 and PR10. Hypersensitive response assays confirmed B. vietnamiensis as non-pathogenic, unlike B. gladioli and B. cepacia. This study identifies B. vietnamiensis J14EPLEAF2 as a promising, safe biocontrol agent for sustainable rice disease management. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 1422-0067 27 11 2026 Genomic Basis of Lifestyle Divergence in Rice-Associated Burkholderia: From Pathogenesis to Plant Growth Promotion 4730 EN Andrews Danso Ofori State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University Zohreh Nasimi State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University Frank Kwekucher Ackah Department of Crop Science, School of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, University of Cape Coast Muhammad Irfan Ahmed State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University Yaoting Yan State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University Wang Li State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University Abdul Ghani Kandro State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University Kazunori Okada Agro-Biotechnology Research Center, The University of Tokyo Keiichi Mochida Bioproductivity Informatics Research Team, RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science Yoshiteru Noutoshi Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Aiping Zheng State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University The genus Burkholderia encompasses both plant pathogenic and beneficial species, yet the genomic determinants underlying this lifestyle divergence remain poorly understood. Using 16S rRNA sequencing of 100 rice cultivars, our companion study demonstrated that resistant varieties are enriched in beneficial Burkholderiaceae, leading to the isolation of three phenotypically contrasting strains. Here, we present comparative genomic analyses of non-pathogenic biocontrol strain Burkholderia vietnamiensis J14EpLeaf2 and pathogenic strains Burkholderia gladioli A1EpSeed5 and Burkholderia cepacia J14Eple. Pathogenic strains possess significantly larger genomes (8.36–8.46 Mb) enriched in mobile genetic elements compared to the streamlined 6.95 Mb genome of B. vietnamiensis. CAZyme analysis revealed broader repertoires of glycoside hydrolases and polysaccharide lyases in pathogens, consistent with enhanced plant cell wall degradation. B. gladioli possesses a complete T3SS and expanded T6SS with 301 predicted effectors, while B. cepacia lacks structural T3SS genes but harbors 271 candidate effectors predicted to be secreted via alternative secretion pathways, compared to 180 in B. vietnamiensis. Notably, B. cepacia harbors cystic fibrosis-associated markers (cable pili, ZmpA/ZmpB), raising significant biosafety concerns that preclude its agricultural application. LC-MS validated IAA, ornibactin, and AHL production in B. vietnamiensis, supporting its plant growth-promoting and biocontrol functions. Computational PPI networks predicted distinct interaction landscapes requiring experimental validation. This study provides a genomic framework for distinguishing pathogenic from beneficial Burkholderia and supports B. vietnamiensis as a safe biocontrol agent while cautioning against B. cepacia J14Eple. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Oxford University Press (OUP) Acta Medica Okayama 0032-0781 2026 Cytokinin receptor AHK3 influences leaf size by modulating trans-zeatin-type cytokinin levels in xylem pcag052 EN Kota Monden Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Takamasa Suzuki College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chubu University Mikiko Kojima RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science Yumiko Takebayashi RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science Takehiro Kamiya Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Tokyo University Takatoshi Kiba Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Hitoshi Sakakibara RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science Tsuyoshi Nakagawa Department of Molecular and Functional Genomics, Interdisciplinary Centerfor Science Research, Shimane University Takushi Hachiya Department of Molecular and Functional Genomics, Interdisciplinary Centerfor Science Research, Shimane University Trans-zeatin (tZ)-type cytokinins (CKs) are predominantly synthesized in roots, transported to the shoot via the xylem, and coordinate diverse physiological processes in aerial organs. Within this process, the regulation of CK biosynthesis by nitrate signaling via nodule inception-like protein 7, as well as the loading of tZ-type CKs into the xylem by ATP-binding cassette transporter G14, have been well studied. However, the roles of other components remain unclear. Here, we show that CK perception and degradation in roots, as mediated by Arabidopsis histidine kinase 3 (AHK3) and CK oxidase/dehydrogenase 4 (CKX4), modulate root-to-shoot tZ-type cytokinin transport in response to nitrate. Grafting experiments demonstrate that root-specific AHK3 deficiency systemically increases the leaf blade area through long-distance signals of root-derived tZ-type CKs, perceived by shoot-expressed AHK3. Transcriptome and hormonome analyses reveal that root-specific AHK3 deficiency reduces CKX4 expression in roots, elevating tZ-type CK levels in roots and xylem sap and thereby enhancing the leaf CK response. Transfer experiments manipulating root nitrate levels show that root-specific AHK3 deficiency promotes the leaf blade area in a manner dependent on both nitrate and root-derived tZ-type CK signaling. Moreover, both nitrate signals and root-expressed AHK3 are required for maximal CKX4 induction in roots, and root-specific CKX4 deficiency enhances the leaf blade area in a nitrate-dependent manner. These findings reveal a novel mechanism in which an AHK3–CKX4 module governs xylem transport of tZ-type CKs, fine-tuning leaf size according to root nitrate status. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 1422-0067 27 6 2026 Minimal Association Between Immunoglobulin A Coating and Gut Microbiota Alterations Induced by High-Fat Diets with Distinct Fatty Acid Compositions 2645 EN Mao Teraoka Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Naoki Nishino Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Tianyang Wang Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kuiyi Chen Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Takeshi Tsuruta Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University High-fat diets (HFDs) containing dietary fats with different fatty acid (FA) compositions alter gut microbiota composition in a fat-source-dependent manner. Immunoglobulin A (IgA) and unabsorbed lipids in the distal gut are potential regulators of the gut microbiota. However, their roles in mediating gut microbiota alterations induced by dietary fats with different FA compositions remain unclear. This study aims to examine the associations of these two factors with fat-source-dependent gut microbiota alterations. BALB/c mice were fed a normal diet, a high-lard diet, a high-olive oil diet, or a high-soybean oil diet for 27 weeks. Fecal samples were collected to assess microbiota composition, the IgA coating index (ICI)―which quantifies the extent of IgA coating on gut microbiota―and fecal fatty acid concentrations. At the phylum level, the concentration of fecal total long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs) was positively correlated with the relative abundance (RA) of Bacillota and negatively correlated with that of Bacteroidota. In addition, a trend toward a positive association between the RA and the ICI was observed for Bacillota but not for Bacteroidota. At the genus level, the RAs of 12 taxa were positively correlated with fecal LCFA concentrations, whereas those of 6 taxa were negatively correlated. Although the RAs of most taxa appeared to be influenced by unabsorbed lipids and additional factors, only four Bacillota genera exhibited a positive correlation between the RA and the ICI. Our observations suggest that IgA coating of the gut microbiota may have a minimal association with fat-source-specific alterations in gut microbiota composition during HFD intake. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health) Acta Medica Okayama 0090-3493 54 6 2026 Institutional Variability in Brain-Dead Organ Donation Processes and Practices: A Multicenter Cohort Study 1319 1328 EN Tetsuya Yumoto Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Hiromichi Naito Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Mineji Hayakawa Department of Emergency Medicine, Hokkaido University Hospital Shoji Yokobori Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Nippon Medical School Kei Nishiyama Division of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science Takahiro Atsumi Department of Emergency and Disaster Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine Osamu Tasaki Acute and Critical Care Center, Nagasaki University Hospital Junya Tsurukiri Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center Mariko Hayamizu Department of Emergency Medicine, Hokkaido University Hospital Shimon Murahashi Acute and Critical Care Center, Nagasaki University Hospital Munehiro Hayashi Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Japanese Red Cross Medical Center Takeshi Nishimura Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo Emergency Medical Center Yukari Goto Department of Emergency Medicine, Nagoya Ekisaikai Hospital Hiromichi Narumiya Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Japanese Red Cross Kyoto Daini Hospital Atsushi Mizutani Department of Emergency Medicine, Hamamatsu Medical Center Mamoru Miyajima Emergency and Critical Care Center, Nagaoka Red Cross Hospital Junya Shimazaki Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Kansai Medical University Medical Center Takeshi Miura Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba Hospital Nozomu Shima Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Wakayama Medical University Kazuki Deuchi Division of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science Hitomi Nakayasu Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Seirei Hamamatsu General Hospital Hitoshi Kano Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Nippon Medical School Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Atsunori Nakao Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Japan Comprehensive Process for End-of-Life Care and Organ Donation after Brain Death (J-RESPECT) study group OBJECTIVES: To determine whether key institutional and clinical differences exist between highly and moderately active hospitals in Japan with respect to brain-dead organ donation practices. DESIGN: Retrospective multicenter cohort study. SETTING: Sixteen tertiary emergency and critical care centers across Japan. PATIENTS: All brain-dead organ donors from participating institutions who had at least one organ procured and transplanted between July 17, 2010, and December 31, 2023. Hospitals were categorized as highly active (≥ 14 donations) or moderately active (≤ 13 donations) during the study period. INTERVENTIONS: None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Institutional donation practices were compared, including donor management strategies, use of vasopressors and corticosteroids, time intervals in the donation process, and frequency of multidisciplinary team meetings. A total of 204 donors were included; the median age was 47 years (interquartile range, 37–56), and 92 (45.1%) were female. Donor characteristics were similar between groups. Vasopressin was used in nearly all donors, though dosing protocols varied. Corticosteroid use was significantly higher in highly active hospitals compared with moderately active ones (58.3% vs. 38.0%; p = 0.004). Time from admission to coordinator notification was similar; however, time to family consent (median, 8 vs. 5 d; p < 0.001) and time to organ procurement (median, 12 vs. 9 d; p = 0.006) were longer in highly active hospitals. These hospitals also conducted more multidisciplinary meetings during donor management (median, 2 vs. 0; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Highly active hospitals demonstrated more intensive donor management practices, longer timeframes for key donation steps, and greater multidisciplinary engagement. Standardization of donation practices may enhance efficiency and support broader dissemination of effective institutional strategies to improve brain-dead organ donation rates in Japan. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Japan Medical Association Acta Medica Okayama 2433-3298 9 3 2026 Post Hoc Analysis of Frailty and Tracheostomy Risk in Older Patients Intubated and in an Intensive Care Unit in Japan: An Inverse Association in Older Patients with Advanced Age 643 650 EN Takehide Umeda Takashi Hongo Mototaka Inaba Hiromichi Naito Yoshinori Ariyasu Takashi Yorifuji Introduction: This post hoc analysis of a prospectively collected intensive care unit (ICU) cohort examined the association between frailty and the likelihood of tracheostomy in older Japanese patients (aged ≥65 years). Frailty, a condition of increased vulnerability to stressors, is common among older patients in the ICU and may influence clinical decision-making and outcomes. We aimed to explore whether baseline frailty is associated with the likelihood of receiving tracheostomy in older patients in the ICUs. Methods: We analyzed data from a multicenter prospective study conducted from November 2019 to April 2020 at 17 hospitals in Japan. Patients aged ≥65 years, admitted directly from the emergency department, and requiring mechanical ventilation, were included. After excluding early deaths (≤5 days) or treatment-limit cases, 363 patients with intubation remained. Frailty was assessed using the Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS), with primary cutoff CFS ≥4. The primary outcome was the occurrence of tracheostomy during ICU stay. Risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using generalized linear models with a Poisson distribution, adjusted for age, sex, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score. Results: Among 363 patients, patients with frailty (CFS ≥4) had a significantly lower adjusted risk of having tracheostomy than did those with less frailty (CFS <4) (adjusted RR: 0.40; 95% CI: 0.27-0.61). In patients aged ≥75 years, the adjusted RR for CFS ≥4 was 0.32 (95% CI: 0.20-0.50), indicating a pronounced reduction in tracheostomy use among patients with frailty. Conclusions: Frailty (CFS ≥4) was independently associated with a lower likelihood of tracheostomy, particularly in patients aged ≥75 years. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 1347-9032 117 5 2026 TGF-β Inhibitor Potentiates Osimertinib-Induced Anti-Tumor Immunity in Egfr-Mutant Lung Cancer 1260 1272 EN Tadahiro Kuribayashi Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Jun Nishimura Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Sachi Okawa Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Masataka Taoka Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Shunta Mori Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Takaaki Tanaka Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Tomoka Nishimura Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Ayako Morita Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Naofumi Hara Department of Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Kiichiro Ninomiya Center for Comprehensive Genomic Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Go Makimoto Department of Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Kammei Rai Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Eiki Ichihara Center for Clinical Oncology, Okayama University Hospital Katsuyuki Hotta Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Yosuke Togashi Department of Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Yoshinobu Maeda Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Katsuyuki Kiura Department of Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Kadoaki Ohashi Department of Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Immunotherapy for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains challenging. We previously found that EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors induced antitumor immunity but also triggered immunosuppressive cytokines, including transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), in Egfr-mutant lung cancer. Here, we investigate whether TGF-β inhibition potentiates osimertinib-induced antitumor immunity using a syngeneic mouse model of Egfr-mutated lung cancer, with cancer cells subcutaneously transplanted into wild-type C57BL/6J mice. We evaluated the antitumor effect of the combination therapy with osimertinib and either nintedanib (an indirect TGF-β inhibitor) or vactosertib (a specific TGF-β type I receptor kinase inhibitor). Changes in the tumor microenvironment during treatment were assessed using immunohistochemical staining, western blot analysis, and flow cytometry. We found that TGF-β expression was upregulated in the tumor treated with osimertinib. Nintedanib monotherapy showed no significant antitumor effect, whereas osimertinib combined with nintedanib significantly potentiates the antitumor effect compared with osimertinib monotherapy in vivo. Crucially, no additive effect of nintedanib on osimertinib monotherapy was observed in vitro. Combination therapy with osimertinib and nintedanib significantly increased effector T cells (CD8+CD44+CD62L－) and Granzyme B+ areas and decreased CD206+ cells, while significantly decreasing TGF-β and SMAD2/3 expression. Similar effects were observed with vactosertib but not with a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 inhibitor. In conclusion, combination therapy with osimertinib and TGF-β inhibitors potentiates osimertinib-induced antitumor immunity. These findings highlight a novel therapeutic strategy for EGFR-mutated NSCLC and warrant further clinical investigation. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 1471-2407 26 1 2026 High-risk soft-tissue sarcomas in elderly patients: does perioperative radiotherapy improve local control and prognosis? 329 EN Tomohiro Fujiwara Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences Toshiharu Mitsuhashi Centre for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Medical Development Field, Okayama University Yutaka Nezu Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yokohama City University Takashi Tajima Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyorin University Faculty of Medicine Shinji Miwa Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University Toshio Kojima Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nihon University School of Medicine Shuichi Fujiwara Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine Akira Kawai Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, National Cancer Centre Hospital Kazuhiro Tanaka Department of Advanced Medical Sciences, Oita University Faculty of Medicine Toshifumi Ozaki Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences Aims Accumulating evidence suggests that advanced age is associated with poor local control and prognosis in patients with soft-tissue sarcomas (STSs), highlighting the need to optimise treatment for this age group. However, real-world data on treatment details and outcomes in elderly patients are limited. This study aimed to clarify the role of perioperative radiotherapy (RT) for treating high-risk STSs in elderly patients. Methods Patients aged ≥ 70 years who underwent surgery for localised, high-grade, deep-seated non-small round cell STSs measuring ≥ 5 cm were included in the Bone and Soft Tissue Tumour Registry in Japan. Patients with small-round cell STSs or myxoid liposarcomas, or those who received perioperative chemotherapy or intraoperative RT, were excluded. Results Among the 1,214 patients who met the criteria, 47 (4%), 219 (18%), and 2 (0.2%) received neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and both neoadjuvant and adjuvant RT, respectively. The 5- and 10-year disease-specific survival (DSS) rates were 72.7% and 64.7%, respectively. Tumour size ≥ 10 cm, intralesional margin, and local recurrence were associated with poorer DSS; however, perioperative RT did not affect DSS. The 5- and 10-year cumulative probabilities of local recurrence (LR) were 14.6% and 19.5%, respectively. Trunk wall tumours, dedifferentiated liposarcomas, marginal margins, and intralesional margins were associated with a higher probability of LR. Adjuvant RT was associated with a reduced LR probability in patients with intralesional (p = 0.005) or marginal margins (p = 0.044); however, no such benefit was observed in patients with wide margins, who constituted the majority of the cohort, resulting in no significant association between perioperative RT and LR in overall analyses. In the propensity score-matched cohort, no significant differences in DSS or cumulative probability of LR were observed between patients with and without perioperative RT. Conclusion Adjuvant RT was associated with reduced LR rates in elderly patients with high-risk STSs who had intralesional or marginal margins. However, because most patients achieved wide margins and no benefit of perioperative RT was observed in this group, RT was not associated with reduced LR or improved survival in the overall or propensity score–matched analyses. Prospective trials are warranted to define the role of perioperative RT in elderly patients with high-risk STSs. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

The Company of Biologists Acta Medica Okayama 0022-0949 229 2 2026 Insulin-like peptide has antagonistic pleiotropic effects on male combat traits and survival traits in an armed beetle jeb251318 EN Takumi Kato Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University Chiho Yoshimine Graduate School of Science, Tokyo Metropolitan University Haruna Fujioka Graduate School of Environmental, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Masako Katsuki Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University Kensuke Okada Graduate School of Environmental, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yasukazu Okada Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University The expression of sexually selected traits, such as exaggerated weapons and ornaments, often entails trade-offs against life-history traits. While phenotypic trade-offs are well documented, the underlying molecular physiological mechanisms remain largely unexplored. In this study, we investigated the potential role of an insulin-like peptide, ILP2, in mediating the trade-off between sexually selected combat traits and survival traits in the broad-horned flour beetle, Gnatocerus cornutus. RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated knockdown (KD) of ILP2 during larval stages resulted in a reduction in the development of mandibular horns and overall body size. Interestingly, ILP2 KD males had increased lipid storage and enhanced starvation tolerance, indicating a shift in resource allocation from sexually selected traits to survival traits. Behaviorally, ILP2 KD males showed decreased locomotor activity and reduced aggression, leading to lower combat success. These findings suggest that ILP2 functions as a key mediator in the allocation of resources between combat and survival traits, highlighting its pleiotropic effects on morphology, metabolism and behavior. Our study provides novel insights into the molecular physiological mechanisms underlying life-history trade-offs associated with sexually selected traits. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 1055-7903 223 2026 Reticulate evolution, introgression, and recent diversification in Epimedium sect. Macroceras 108646 EN Emi Kusatake Department of Biology, Okayama University Momoka Konishi Department of Biology, Okayama University Shuto Tomokuni Department of Biology, Okayama University Yosuke Yanagi Department of Biology, Okayama University Shungo Kariyama Society of Kurashiki Museum of Natural History Takehito Itoh School of Life Science and Technology, Institute of Science Tokyo Atsushi Toyoda Department of Genomics and Evolutionary Biology, National Institute of Genetics Seung-Chul Kim Department of Biological Sciences, Sungkyunkwan University Makiko Mimura Department of Biology, Okayama University Hybridization can hinder or promote diversification, and growing genomic evidence suggests that it can facilitate adaptation and speciation. Despite recent progress, however, the quantitative contribution and temporal scope of hybridization to diversification remain poorly understood. The genus Epimedium is a recently diverged lineage, and sect. Macroceras largely consists of endemic species in Japan that are distributed across diverse environments, including limestone, serpentine, coastal habitats, heavy-snow regions, and regions with mild winters. Although natural hybridization and hybrid species have been reported in this section, molecular evidence demonstrating the contribution of hybridization to lineage diversification is limited. We reconstructed phylogenetic relationships using genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data from Epimedium sect. Macroceras and tested for genomic signatures consistent with hybridization. Phylogenetic analyses suggest that E. koreanum from Korea is sister to Japanese Epimedium lineages, consistent with an initial colonization of Japan from the Korean Peninsula. The analyses also revealed complex relationships among Japanese species and frequent signals of historical interspecific introgression. Our results are consistent with a history of recent diversification in sect. Macroceras accompanied by introgressive hybridization, which may have contributed to diversification across heterogeneous environments in Japan. This study provides the first genome-wide insights into the evolutionary history of Epimedium sect. Macroceras and reveals complex reticulate relationships among the lineages. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 0924-4247 408 2026 A flexible PVDF-based galloping flow sensor 117978 EN Mitsuki Kurose Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Takefumi Kanda Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yuya Sato Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Shuichi Wakimoto Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Daisuke Yamaguchi Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Shinji Hiejima Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Takeji Ueda Hydro-VENUS Co., Ltd., Okayama University Effective monitoring of low flow velocities in small rivers and irrigation channels is hindered by the power requirements and maintenance costs of existing technologies. This study proposes a novel flexible piezoelectric polymer flow sensor utilizing galloping vibration to detect flow velocity in the low range (≤ 0.1 m/s). The sensor features a flexible cantilever structure composed of a silicone rubber beam embedded with a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) film and a tip pillar. Unlike conventional devices based on flow-induced vibration, the use of low-stiffness materials enables the induction of self-excited vibration even under weak fluid forces. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis has been conducted to optimize the tip shape; a D-shaped semicylinder is selected over a cylinder and a square prism because the geometry maximizes the lift force per unit mass, ensuring efficient energy conversion. To predict sensor behavior, a coupled mechanical-fluid-electrical model was developed. Specifically, the model accounts for the static deflection angle caused by fluid drag. Water channel experiments demonstrated that sensors with beam thicknesses under 4 mm successfully generated stable periodic outputs at 0.1 m/s, a regime previously difficult for galloping-based devices. Conversely, thicker beam which has a thickness of 8 mm achieved higher outputs at higher velocities but failed to actuate at low speeds. Furthermore, the study showed a vibration suppression phenomenon in flexible beams at high flow velocities due to excessive static deflection, which was accurately reproduced by the analytical model. These findings establish structural stiffness as the critical design parameter for optimizing the operable velocity range of flow sensors. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Hrvatski Sumarski Institut (Croatian Forest Research) Acta Medica Okayama 1849-0891 17 1 2026 Understory Vegetation Structure in Remnant Natural Forests and Acacia Plantations on Coastal Sand Dunes in North Central Vietnam 26007 EN Tuan Quoc Doan Okayama University, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology Tetsuya K. Matsumoto Ibaraki University, Graduate School of Science and Engineering Tai Tien Dinh Hue Union of Science and Technology Associations (HUSTA) Hung Thai Le Hue University, University of Agriculture and Forestry Tuan Ngoc Anh Ho Hue Union of Science and Technology Associations (HUSTA) Naoko H. Miki Okayama University, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology Hoang Thai Dac Ho Hue Union of Science and Technology Associations (HUSTA) Muneto Hirobe Okayama University, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology In the coastal sand dune forests of North Central Vietnam, vegetation has been seriously damaged by war and overexploitation. To recover ecosystem functions, including sand stabilisation under harsh environments, exotic species like Acacia spp. have been planted as a monoculture. However, the long-term sustainability of this practice remains unclear. To assess the long-term effectiveness of revegetation with Acacia spp., this study aims to understand the differences and similarities in ecological characteristics of remnant natural forests and Acacia plantations on the coastal sand dune of North Central Vietnam by comparing understory vegetation structure and environmental conditions. We investigated the understory vegetation (height < 130 cm) in a total of 54 quadrants (1 m × 1 m), including nine natural forests and nine Acacia plantations. We compared diversity indices by mixed ANOVA and examined the differences in the understory vegetation structure between the two forest types through PERMANOVA. We also determined some abiotic environmental factors (e.g. light and soil water availability, and soil pH). We identified 951 individuals, with 792 found in natural forests and 159 in plantations. The species found in natural forests were well-distributed among Liana phanerophytes (Lp), Microphanerophytes (Mi), Mega-Mesophanerophytes (MM), and Cryptophytes (Cr). In contrast, species found in plantations were predominantly Cr, Hemicryptophytes (Hm), and MM. All diversity indices were significantly higher in natural forests (P < 0.05), and the NMDS analysis confirmed significant differences in the understory vegetation structure between natural forests and plantations. Only soil pH was significantly lower in natural forests (P < 0.05), while none of the environmental factors had a statistically significant impact on the variations in understory vegetation structure. Our results indicate that succession by native tree species does not seem to occur naturally in Acacia plantations. Hence, to restore and sustainably develop coastal sand dune forests in North Central Vietnam, it is essential to establish a scientifically based strategy for managing and protecting the remaining natural remnant forest areas. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 1860-1871 2026 Effects of Juniperus sabina coverage on plant community structure in semiarid areas of China EN Long Qin Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Ayaka Yamabayashi Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Tetsuya K. Matsumoto Faculty of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Guosheng Zhang College of Ecology and Environment, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University Norikazu Yamanaka Arid Land Research Center, Tottori University Muneto Hirobe Faculty of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Naoko H. Miki Faculty of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Plant interactions are one of the fundamental processes shaping the structure and function of plant communities and help create species diversity. Species diversity affects the current functioning of ecosystems and their resistance and resilience to future climate change. In harsh environments such as drylands, positive plant–plant interactions are important in promoting species diversity. Juniperus sabina is an evergreen shrub that is native to the semiarid areas of northern China. Because J. sabina can modify some harsh environmental conditions in its role as a nurse plant, it is expected to facilitate species diversity, although it may exhibit allelopathic inhibition. Previous research has only examined effects of J. sabina coverage onα-diversity in a single-year, and its effects on the β-diversity of the plant community structure in the local ecosystem are still unclear. We compared environmental conditions and plant species composition inside and outside of 11 J. sabina patches to evaluate the effects of its coverage on the species diversity of the understory community structure through modifying microhabitat conditions. Water and nutrient conditions were higher inside the patches, whereas light conditions were higher outside. More perennial herbs and C3 plants were found inside and more annual herbs and C4 plants were found outside. There were different trends in α-diversity each year, while β-diversity was consistently greater inside the patches. This research suggests that the coverage of J. sabina can drive different community structures by providing heterogeneous environmental conditions, and would increase plant species diversity in the local ecosystem. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 1471-2431 26 1 2026 Hypernatremia during the first week of life in very preterm infants and neurodevelopmental outcomes at 3 to 4 years of age: a cohort study 181 EN Michiko Murakami Division of Neonatology, NHO Okayama Medical Center Kei Tamai Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Naomi Matsumoto Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Akihito Takeuchi Division of Neonatology, NHO Okayama Medical Center Makoto Nakamura Division of Neonatology, NHO Okayama Medical Center Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Misao Kageyama Division of Neonatology, NHO Okayama Medical Center Background Hypernatremia is a common electrolyte disorder in both term and preterm infants. Previous studies have suggested a correlation between hypernatremia and short-term complications in preterm infants, such as intraventricular hemorrhage and chronic lung disease. However, the relationship between hypernatremia and neurodevelopmental outcomes is less well understood. This study aimed to assess the association between hypernatremia during the first week of life and neurodevelopmental outcomes at 3–4 years of age in very preterm infants. Methods This single-center, retrospective cohort study analyzed data from preterm infants born at less than 32 weeks of gestation between 2010 and 2020. Infants with peak whole blood sodium levels > 145 mEq/L during the first week of life were included in the hypernatremia group and those with ≤ 145 mEq/L in the non-hypernatremia group. The primary outcome was neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI) at 3–4 years of age, defined as developmental impairment (developmental quotient < 70), cerebral palsy, hearing impairment, or visual impairment. Secondary outcomes were the components of the primary outcome. We conducted Poisson regression analyses with robust variance, adjusting for perinatal confounders. Results Of 272 infants with neurodevelopmental data, 82 and 190 infants were in the hypernatremia and non-hypernatremia groups, respectively. The median (interquartile range) gestational age and birth weight were 26.4 (25.1–28.0) and 28.7 (26.6–30.3) weeks and 860 (670–1062) and 997 (778–1264) g for infants in the hypernatremia and non-hypernatremia groups, respectively. Infants in the hypernatremia group had a greater incidence of NDI (29.3% vs. 14.7%, adjusted risk ratio [RR] 1.75, 95% CI 1.08–2.84) and cerebral palsy (8.5% vs. 1.6%, adjusted RR 5.5, 95% CI 1.72–17.63) than those in the non-hypernatremia group. Conclusions Hypernatremia during the first week of life was associated with an increased risk of NDI at 3–4 years of age in very preterm infants. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

American Geophysical Union (AGU) Acta Medica Okayama 0094-8276 53 10 2026 Spin Transition of Fe3+ in δ-(Al,Fe)OOH and Implication for Mid-Lower Mantle Seismic Heterogeneities e2025GL121007 EN Chaoshuai Zhao State Key Laboratory of Precision Geodesy, University of Science and Technology of China Zhu Mao State Key Laboratory of Precision Geodesy, University of Science and Technology of China Xinyue Zhang State Key Laboratory of Precision Geodesy, University of Science and Technology of China Yingxin Yu State Key Laboratory of Precision Geodesy, University of Science and Technology of China Ningyu Sun State Key Laboratory of Precision Geodesy, University of Science and Technology of China Jianbo Zhang Center for High Pressure Science and Technology Advanced Research Yuzhu Wang Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences Takayuki Ishii Institute for Planetary Materials, Okayama University δ-(Al,Fe)OOH is an important water carrier and plays a critical role on Earth's deep water cycle. Lattice parameters of δ-(Al0.89Fe0.11)OOH were measured by synchrotron single-crystal X-ray diffraction at simultaneously high temperature and pressure up to 65 GPa and 800 K in diamond anvil cells. The results reveal that the spin crossover increases from 30 to 37 GPa at 300 K to 36–48 GPa at 700 K. Moreover, at the spin crossover, the KT and VΦ of δ-(Al0.89Fe0.11)OOH occur significant elastic softening, with maximum reductions of 50% on KT and 29% on VΦ at 33 GPa and 300 K to 37% on KT and 23% on VΦ at 41 GPa and 700 K. The anomalous elastic properties of δ-(Al,Fe)OOH at the spin crossover enhance our understanding of local seismic observations anomalies and help identify potential water-rich regions in the mid-lower mantle. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

American Geophysical Union (AGU) Acta Medica Okayama 0094-8276 53 3 2026 Sound Velocities of FeO‐Bearing Ringwoodite and Majorite: Implication for Martian Mantle Seismic Profiles e2025GL118991 EN Luo Li Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Jackson School of Geosciences, The University of Texas at Austin Takayuki Ishii Institute for Planetary Materials, Okayama University Young Jay Ryu GeoSoilEnviroCARS, University of Chicago Dongzhou Zhang GeoSoilEnviroCARS, University of Chicago Stella Chariton GeoSoilEnviroCARS, University of Chicago Vitali B. Prakapenka GeoSoilEnviroCARS, University of Chicago Jung‐Fu Lin Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Jackson School of Geosciences, The University of Texas at Austin Compressional and shear wave velocities (Vp, Vs) of candidate Martian deep-mantle minerals, FeO-rich ringwoodite ((Mg0.66Fe0.34)2SiO4) and majorite (Mg0.75Fe0.10Al0.26Ca0.07Si0.84O3), were measured up to 25 GPa and 700 K using Brillouin light scattering coupled with externally-heated diamond anvil cells. Thermoelastic modeling of our results and literature data along a representative areotherm showed that Vp and Vs of FeO-bearing ringwoodite are approximately 7.5% and 11.0% higher than that of the majorite. Our results reveal that velocity profiles of these Martian deep-mantle minerals are more sensitive to variations in the ringwoodite/majorite (Mg/Si) ratio than to thermal and FeO chemical perturbations. Our best-fit velocity model to a recent seismic model by Samuel et al. (2023, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06601-8) indicates the Martian mantle contains approximately 67 vol.% ringwoodite and 33 vol.% majorite, suggesting a ringwoodite-rich aggregate in the Martian lowermost solid mantle. The ringwoodite-majorite mantle likely co-evolved with the FeO and other incompatible elements in the molten silicate layer above the Martian core-mantle boundary. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 0892-0362 115 2026 Long-term neurological and neurocognitive deficits in adults prenatally exposed to methylmercury: Minamata disease 107590 EN Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Yuka Yamamura Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Itsuka Nagano Non-Profit Organization Hamachidori Mariko Yasuda Clinical Psychology Center, Kawasaki Medical School Hospital Teruko Morooka Division of Medical Support, Okayama University Hospital Yoko Kado Department of Psychology, Faculty of Letters, Kansai University Minamata disease, officially recognized in 1956, is a well-known food poisoning event that was caused by the consumption of fish and seafood contaminated with methylmercury. Although patients with congenital Minamata disease (CMD) with severe neurological impairments after birth are widely recognized, few studies have examined the effects of prenatal methylmercury exposure among residents, which is likely at lower levels than in CMD patients. We aimed to investigate the relationship between prenatal methylmercury exposure and subsequent neurological and neurocognitive outcomes. We conducted a cross-sectional study during 2024–2025 among 51 individuals aged approximately 70 years, 27 residents from an existing cohort established in 1970 in Minamata and 24 age-matched individuals who had lived in less-exposed regions. We performed a battery of neurological and neurocognitive tests in both groups and compared the results using multiple linear regression analyses. We also examined the association between intelligence scores obtained in 1970, and intelligence scores obtained in the present investigation, only among exposed participants. We found that exposed individuals had unfavorable neurological and neurocognitive test scores, in comparison with less-exposed controls. Scores on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Japanese Edition were 5.91 points lower (95% confidence interval: 3.09 to 8.73) for exposed residents than for the less-exposed group. Moreover, intelligence scores evaluated during exposed participants' adolescence were correlated with their neurocognitive scores in adulthood. Our findings showed that prenatal methylmercury exposure affected subsequent neurological and neurocognitive functions, including among individuals with lower exposure than in CMD patients, and even approximately 70 years after the initial exposure. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 0020-7128 70 3 2026 Immediate and delayed effects of thermal stress on fever-associated seizures in children: A time-stratified case-crossover study in Japan 86 EN Naomi Matsumoto Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Yuka Yamamura Department of Epidemiology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kensuke Uraguchi Department of Epidemiology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Takafumi Obara Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences Hiromichi Naito Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University This study aimed to examine the non-linear and delayed effects of thermal stress, measured by the hourly Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI), on the risk of pediatric fever-associated seizures (FAS). We conducted a time-stratified case-crossover study in Okayama, Japan (May 2015–March 2023), analyzing 3,201 ambulance-attended FAS cases in children younger than 7 years. Using a distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) with a 144-h lag, we estimated the association between UTCI and FAS. The analysis revealed a bimodal exposure–response relationship. Moderate Cold Stress (10th percentile, –1.6 °C) was associated with a significant cumulative odds ratio (OR) of 2.22 (95% CI: 1.22–4.06). Risk also increased at the upper range of No Thermal Stress (24.2 °C; cumulative OR 2.74, 95% CI: 1.63–4.63), extending into Moderate Heat Stress (28.7 °C; cumulative OR 2.26, 95% CI: 1.33–3.84). These effects were primarily delayed to 72–96 h for Moderate Cold and reached a peak around 100 h for Moderate Heat. Strong Heat Stress showed immediate but non-significant risk patterns. These findings suggest that infection-mediated pathways likely drive the observed bimodal risk pattern, demonstrate the utility of high-resolution bioclimatic indices, and can inform the development of temperature-specific public health alerts. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Bone marrow microenvironment disruption and sustained inflammation with prolonged haematologic toxicity after CAR T-cell therapy EN Wataru KITAMURA Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Evolution of fruit shape diversity in polyploid cultivated persimmon EN Ayano HORIUCHI Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 The role of TFAM-mediated mitochondrial DNA replication in mouse oocytes EN DO QUANG SON Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Study on the mechanisms regulating bovine oviductal tonus during peri-ovulatory period EN Sayaka KUBOTA Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Molecular and Functional Characterization of Ion Transporters in Rice and Barley: Roles in Salinity Stress Tolerance EN SHAHIN IMRAN Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 ゴミムシダマシ類におけるオス間闘争が繫殖生態に及ぼす影響 EN Teruhisa MATSUURA Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 外来種タイリクシロフチタナゴの対策に向けた基礎生態学的研究 EN Rintaro TANIGUCHI Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Scale-invariant patterning and sequential digit formation via Shh/Fgf8 spatiotemporal dynamics in axolotl limb regeneration EN Saya FURUKAWA Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Mechanisms of Dermal Type I Collagen Formation in the Axolotl Skin EN Ayaka OHASHI Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Identification and functional characterization of novel suppressor genes for thermospermine-deficient mutants in Arabidopsis thaliana EN Yuichi NISHII Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Translational research on neural mechanisms of male sexual function and antioxidant intervention in mammals EN Takashi ITO Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Electroreductive Organic Transformations with a Catalytic Amount of Electricity EN Mayu FUJII Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 マイクロ波による結晶性炭素の合成と物性評価 EN Miyu KANEDA Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Studies on Synthesis and Photophysical Properties of Highly-Functionalized Phenacenes and Helicenes EN Keito NOSE Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Development of a Hydrodynamic-Simulation-Informed Random Forest Method for Efficient Spatiotemporal Flood Prediction EN KEXIN LIU Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Development of a low-cost crack displacement monitoring system for concrete structures EN AFIA SARAH BONEY Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 地域防災計画における「災害予防」「災害応急対策」の課題と解決策に関する研究 EN Junko KANETO Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Non-Interactive and Dynamic Secret Sharing Schemes for Threshold Cryptography EN YIXUAN HE Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 リングオシレータ型乱数生成回路における確率統計を用いた特徴分析に関する研究 EN Ryoichi SATO Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Hardware-Oriented Security Framework for Enhancing Side-Channel Attack Resistance in Embedded Cryptographic Systems EN Masaki HIMURO Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 A Study of SQL Programming Learning Assistant System for Novice Learners EN NI WAYAN WARDANI Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 A Study of Flutter Programming Learning Assistant System with User Interface Validation and Home Garden Monitoring Application EN SOE THANDAR AUNG Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 A Study of Audio-to-Text Conversion Software and Its Applications to Meeting Minutes and Slide Annotation Generation Tools EN AMMA LIESVARASTRANTA HAZ Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Comprehensive Studies of Nearby Core-Collapse Supernovae with Neutrinos in Super-Kamiokande EN Fumi NAKANISHI Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Study on thylakoid membrane homeostasis: Proteins interacting with VIPP1 involved in membrane remodeling EN Di Li Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 オオムギ由来微生物資源の分離・同定とビオラセイン産生Duganella属細菌の生態 EN Katsumoto KISHIRO Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 イネのミネラル吸収における根の形態と構造の役割 EN Toshiki FUJII Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 イネアクアポリンOsPIP2;4の水輸送とオオムギアクアポリンHvPIP2のリン酸化による活性制御の研究 EN Aya ONISHI Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 A role of apoplastic flow in salt stress mitigation by salicylic acid and chitosan EN Md. ASADULLA AL GALIB Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 Reactive carbonyl species involvement in isothiocyanate-induced stomatal closure EN FARZANA SUMAIYA Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 代謝機能障害関連脂肪肝炎に関連する生体内の鉄過剰環境が Streptococcus mutans の性状に及ぼす影響 EN Sodai NAKANO Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2026 環境依存的に可塑性を示すCAR細胞　-in vitroでの特性消失とin vivoでの再誘導- EN Shinnosuke KUBOKI Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 1445-5781 25 2026 TFAM-Mediated mtDNA Replication is Essential for Developmental Competence of In Vitro Grown Oocytes e70031 EN Son Quang Do Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Hidetaka Tasaki Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Hiroaki Funahashi Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Takuya Wakai Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Purpose Mitochondria are essential for oocyte maturation and early embryonic development, supplying ATP and maintaining mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) integrity. During oogenesis, mtDNA undergoes dramatic amplification, but the mechanisms and functional significance of this process remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the role of mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) in mouse oocytes using an in vitro growth (IVG) system. Methods Oocytes at different growth stages were analyzed for mtDNA copy number and expression of mitochondrial biogenesis genes. To assess TFAM function, siRNA targeting Tfam was microinjected into secondary follicles, which were then cultured for 12 days under IVG conditions. Following culture, oocyte growth, mtDNA content, mitochondrial membrane potential, and developmental competence after in vitro fertilization (IVF) were evaluated. Results mtDNA copy number increased nonlinearly during oocyte growth, with a pronounced rise at the secondary follicle stage accompanied by TFAM upregulation. TFAM knockdown reduced mtDNA copy number and mitochondrial function without affecting oocyte size or meiotic maturation, but significantly decreased blastocyst formation and total cell numbers per blastocyst. Conclusions TFAM-mediated mtDNA replication is crucial for mitochondrial function and developmental competence of IVG-derived oocytes, underscoring its importance in early embryonic development. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Acta Medica Okayama 1078-0432 2026 Incidence of B-cell Malignancies in Patients with Lung Cancer Receiving PD-1 Blockade Therapy EN Toshifumi Ninomiya Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Caiyang Fang Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Hirofumi Hamano Department of Pharmacy, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama University Teruya Morinaga Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Wenhao Zhou Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Toshihiro Koyama Department of Pharmaceutical Data Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Sakura Miki Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Li Zhu Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Yusuke Naoi Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Daisuke Ennishi Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Tomoya Katsuta Department of Respiratory Medicine, Ehime Prefectural Central Hospital Kadoaki Ohashi Department of Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama University Shin Morizane Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Tomoka Ohki-Ikeda Department of Pathology, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama University Tatsuya Nishi Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Youki Ueda Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takamasa Ishino Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Yoshinobu Maeda Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Isamu Okamoto Department of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University Yoshito Zamami Department of Pharmacy, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama University Joji Nagasaki Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Yosuke Togashi Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Purpose: Many patients with various cancer types have received immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) worldwide since their approval, and novel unexpected complications from their long-term use are apparent. We identified some cases of B-cell lymphoma occurring during PD-1 blockade therapy as such unexpected complications. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the incidence of hematologic malignancies in patients with lung cancer receiving PD-1 blockade therapy and to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the progression of these malignancies. Experimental Design: We performed IHC staining on the clinical samples from patients with B-cell lymphoma that developed during PD-1 blockade therapy and analyzed large-scale real-world datasets. We further investigated the underlying mechanisms through in vitro and in vivo experiments. Results: A higher incidence of B-cell malignancies has been observed in patients with lung cancer treated with PD-1 blockade therapies based on large-scale real-world data analyses (n = 15,670). The identified lymphomas had a large amount of CD4+ T follicular helper (TFH) cell infiltration. In addition, PD-1 blockade activated PD-1+ TFH cells, which promoted lymphoma proliferation via the IL4/IL4R, IL21/IL21R, and CD40L/CD40 axes. Notably, the lymphomas exhibited high expression of IL4R, IL21R, and CD40. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the need for careful monitoring and consideration of the potential B-cell malignancy complications in clinical settings in which ICIs are used. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 2575-6265 7 2 2026 Exogenous Glutathione and Nitric Oxide Improve Waterlogging Stress Tolerance in Maize e70136 EN Prodipto Bishnu Angon Applied Plant Biology and Bioinformatics Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bangladesh Agricultural University Md. Tahjib‐Ul‐Arif Applied Plant Biology and Bioinformatics Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bangladesh Agricultural University Md. Sarwar Jahan Applied Plant Biology and Bioinformatics Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bangladesh Agricultural University Md. Mahadi Hasan Basic and Applied Scientific Research Centre, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University Yoshiyuki Murata Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the major grain crops worldwide that is particularly vulnerable to waterlogging (WL) stress. Glutathione (GSH) and nitric oxide (NO) are known to protect plants from a variety of abiotic stresses; however, their potential for improving WL tolerance in maize remains unexplored. The present study examined the impact of exogenously applied GSH and NO on maize plants exposed to WL-stress. Our findings revealed that GSH + NO-treated waterlogged maize plants grew better and produced more biomass than only WL-stressed plants. The improved performance of GSH + NO-sprayed WL-stressed maize seedlings was supported by the increased root dry and fresh weight, shoot length, shoot dry and fresh weight, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoid content. Exogenous GSH and NO treatments significantly enhanced the amounts of leaf proline, leaf soluble sugars, and total protein in maize seedlings, suggesting adaptive metabolic reprogramming under stress. The increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and accumulation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in maize leaves and roots revealed that WL caused significant oxidative damage. Exogenous GSH, NO individually, and combinedly significantly decreased total H2O2 and MDA contents in both leaves and roots. Exogenous GSH and NO reduced oxidative stress by increasing peroxidase activity, ascorbic acid, and anthocyanin content in maize leaf and root tissues. Our findings emphasize the possible relevance of GSH and NO, simultaneously and individually, in enhancing adaptive mechanisms in maize seedlings for reducing WL-induced damage. Although the GSH + NO-mediated approach shows promise for mitigating WL-stress in maize under controlled conditions, further field-based investigations are required to validate its practical applicability. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 0003-6862 2026 Effect of caffeine on life-history traits on the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) EN Shine Shane Naing Okayama University (Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology) Teruhisa Matsuura Okayama University (Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology) Takahisa Miyatake Okayama University (Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology) Nowadays, addressing insect pest infestation effectively requires environmentally sound and sustainable pest control methods that minimize environmental pollution. Caffeine (1, 3, 7-trimethylxanthine), a plant-derived secondary metabolite, has insecticidal, hormonal and antifeedant properties, making it a promising and more sustainable alternative for pest management. In this study, the red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum Herbst (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), a serious stored pest, was used to investigate the effects of different caffeine concentrations on life-history traits. We applied two delivery methods: 1) oral exposure through a caffeine–sucrose solution for adults, and 2) dietary incorporation of caffeine powder mixed with wheat flour and brewer’s yeast for adults and their larvae. To evaluate the effect of caffeine on life-history traits, adult longevity, pupation rate, larval period, pupal weight, adult body size and food consumption were examined. Results revealed higher caffeine concentrations (> 1%) significantly reduced longevity, delayed pupation, decreased pupal number, pupal weight and adult body size in both males and females. Lower caffeine concentration (0.01%) increased pupal number but resulted in lower offspring quality, such as smaller pupal weight and adult size. The results show that caffeine has negative effects on life-history traits of T. castaneum, suggesting its potential use as a natural pesticide in caffeine-based sustainable pest-management programs and integrated pest management (IPM). No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山医学会 Acta Medica Okayama 0030-1558 138 1 2026 令和６年度岡山医学会賞　がん研究奨励賞（林原賞・山田賞） 7 9 EN Fumiaki Mukohara Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Japan Poultry Science Association Acta Medica Okayama 1346-7395 63 2026 Supplementation of 5-Aminolevulinic Acid Suppressed Body Weight Loss and Reduced Disease Severity During Eimeria tenella Infection in Broiler Chickens 2026010 EN Taqi Ahmad Hanif Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Makoto Matsubayashi Department of Veterinary Science, Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Osaka Metropolitan University Toshimitsu Hatabu Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University This study aimed to evaluate the effects of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) supplementation in broiler chickens infected with Eimeria tenella. To assess these effects, chickens supplemented with 20 ppm 5-ALA (5-ALA group) were compared with non-supplemented controls (control group). Sporulated E. tenella oocysts (2.0 × 103 oocysts per animal) were administered orally to 2-week-old broiler chickens. Body weight was measured weekly, and fecal samples were collected daily from 4 to 15 days post-infection (dpi). Fecal oocyst shedding was quantified using the sucrose flotation method. Cecal tissues were collected at 5 dpi for histopathological analysis and lesion scoring. The animals in the 5-ALA group exhibited significantly greater weight gain and milder clinical signs than those in the control group. Fecal oocyst shedding was highest at 7 dpi in both groups; however, the 5-ALA group exhibited significantly lower oocyst output than the control group. The total number of fecal oocysts shed during the acute infection period was significantly lower in the 5-ALA group than in the control group. Histopathological analysis revealed that although both groups exhibited epithelial hyperplasia and E. tenella schizonts in the cecal submucosa, inflammatory cell infiltration, cecal tissue damage, and histological lesion scores were significantly lower in the 5-ALA group than in the control group. These results suggest that 5-ALA supplementation may mitigate the clinical, parasitological, and histological effects of E. tenella infection in broiler chickens. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 2948-216X 3 1 2026 Compact potential sensor for spacecraft based on a silicon photonic waveguide 10 EN Kosei Otsuka Department of Physics and Electronics, Osaka Metropolitan University Wataru Takahama Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Rikuto Hojo Department of Space Systems Engineering, Kyushu Institute of Technology Takeki Higashiguchi Department of Physics and Electronics, Osaka Metropolitan University Kazuya Kikunaga Sensing Technology Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology Tomofumi Mogami Electrostatic Engineering DEPT, Kasuga Denki INC Kazuhiro Toyoda Department of Space Systems Engineering, Kyushu Institute of Technology Yasushi Takahashi Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Satellites charge up due to incoming electrons and ions, resulting in an electrical potential difference (ΔV) between the satellite and outer space. This can cause electrostatic discharge (ESD) events, damaging electronic devices. To reduce failures due to ESD, sensors monitoring the ΔV can be helpful. Due to spacecraft’s restrictions, the sensors should be as small as possible. While small potential sensors in terrestrial applications are often based on electrical conduction in semiconductors, such sensors are not suitable for space application due to a weak resistance to cosmic radiation and ESD. Here, we report a compact sensor based on another sensing method: the utilization of light absorption in a silicon photonic waveguide. We performed experiments in a vacuum chamber simulating the space plasma environment to demonstrate that the light attenuation in the waveguide depends on the ΔV. Our results further indicate that our sensor exhibits a high resistance to ESD. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 0341-8162 269 2026 Aeolian dust provenance across the Eurasian Asian steppe from grain-size dependent quartz δ18O in surface soils 110109 EN Geer Teni Graduate School of Science and Technology, University of Tsukuba Ryoji Tanaka The Pheasant Memorial Laboratory for Geochemistry and Cosmochemistry, Institute for Planetary Materials, Okayama University Maki Asano Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba Kenji Tamura Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba Aeolian dust from the Eurasian interior significantly impacts climate, ecosystems, and soil formation, but the role of the Eurasian steppe as a dust source remains uncertain. We present grain-size-sorted quartz δ18O values in topsoil at 24 sites across the Eurasian steppe, from Ukraine and Kazakhstan to Xinjiang, Mongolia, and Inner Mongolia. Quartz fractions were separated from four fine soil classes (<2, 2–10, 10–20, 20–50 μm) at all sites, with additional coarse classes (50–200, 200–500, 500–2000 μm) at lithologically distinct locations. Coarse quartz grains in the Mongolian–Inner Mongolian Highlands show a relatively low and narrow δ18O range (7.6–9.0‰) over plutonic bedrocks and more variable higher values (8.9–17.8‰) over sedimentary bedrocks, indicating dependence on local lithology. In contrast, fine quartz grains (2–50 μm) exhibit a δ18O trend independent of bedrock lithology, indicating the values of regionally homogenized dust components. The δ18O values of the finest quartz fractions, exhibiting the highest at each site, decreased from the Western Steppe Plain (19.0 ± 0.8‰) through the Central Upland Steppe (18.0 ± 0.7‰) to the Mongolian–Inner Mongolian Highlands (13.8 ± 1.0‰), reflecting the distal dust input. Comparison with published quartz δ18O values for Mongolian and Northern China deserts and East Asian soils suggests that variable mixtures of these steppe end-members with Gobi and northern Chinese desert sources, along different atmospheric pathways of the East Asian winter monsoon, mid-latitude westerlies, and subtropical jets, can explain the aerosol-sized quartz in Japan and Korea. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Acta Medica Okayama 0027-8424 123 17 2026 A magnesium efflux transporter required for seed development and eating quality in rice e2536813123 EN Sheng Huang Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Kiyosumi Hori National Institute of Crop Science, National Agriculture Research Organization Naoki Yamaji Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Yuma Yoshioka Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Min Ning Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Yu Nagaya Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takaaki Miyaji Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Namiki Mitani-Ueno Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Shin-ichiro Inoue Department of Regulatory Biology, Saitama University June-Sik Kim Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Miho Kashino Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Jian Feng Ma Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University As a staple food for half the world’s population, rice is an important dietary source of magnesium (Mg), an essential mineral for human health. Enhanced Mg accumulation in rice grains has also been linked to eating quality. However, the mechanisms underlying Mg transport to the grains remains poorly understood. Here, we report that OsMGR2, a member belonging to Magnesium Release (MGR) family, is required for Mg accumulation in rice grains. OsMGR2 encodes a plasma membrane-localized transporter that mediates Mg efflux. OsMGR2 is constitutively and highly expressed in the stele tissues of roots, the phloem region of both enlarged and diffused vascular bundles in nodes, and the ovular vascular trace of caryopses. Knockout of this gene results in decreased root-to-shoot translocation and altered distribution of Mg to different organs; less Mg is allocated to the second newest leaf with high Mg requirement for active photosynthesis. The osmgr2 mutants exhibit decreased Mg accumulation in the grain, which are smaller, lighter, and shriveled, but show increased accumulation in the husk. The eating quality of the mutant grains is significantly decreased compared with the wild-type rice. These results indicate that OsMGR2 plays multiple roles within the rice; facilitating the root-to-shoot Mg translocation, mediating phloem-to-xylem Mg transfer at nodes for preferential distribution to the most active leaf, and exporting Mg from maternal vascular tissues of the caryopsis to the grains, processes essential for grain development and eating quality in rice. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 0304-4238 361 2026 Far-red-enriched ultra-long-day conditions induce constitutive FT expression and rapid flowering in radish rootstocks, promoting graft-mediated floral induction in Brassicaceae crops 114818 EN Ko Motoki Graduate School of Environmental, Life and Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Nami Kakita School of agriculture, Okayama University Tanjuro Goto Graduate School of Environmental, Life and Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Ken-ichiro Yasuba Graduate School of Environmental, Life and Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Efficient floral induction is essential for breeding and seed production in Brassicaceae crops, particularly for late-bolting cultivars and plant-vernalization–type species such as cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.), which require substantial time and labor for artificial flower induction. A graft-mediated floral induction method was recently developed for cabbage, enabling flowering without vernalization treatment by grafting cabbage scions onto radish (Raphanus sativus L.) rootstocks. Although high expression of florigen gene FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) in the rootstocks is a key determinant of success, environmental conditions capable of inducing strong FT expression in radish have remained unclear. Here, we demonstrate that a far-red-enriched ultra-long-day photoperiod (ULD-FR) markedly upregulates expression of radish FT homolog RsFTa and greatly enhances graft-mediated floral induction in cabbage. Under the ULD-FR condition, RsFTa expression remained constitutively high throughout the day, with daily transcript abundance increasing more than tenfold compared with standard high red/far-red (R/FR) ratio long-day conditions that employed fluorescent lamps. FT protein accumulation in cabbage scions grafted onto radish rootstocks was also strongly elevated, resulting in rapid flowering approximately 30 days after grafting. ULD-FR also promoted flowering in rapid-cycling Brassica rapa and B. oleracea accessions, and induced flowering in a vernalization-requiring R. sativus cultivar without low temperature treatment, suggesting that the response may be broadly conserved across Brassicaceae. Because ULD-FR can be implemented using standard lighting equipment by adding an FR light source, it presents potential utility as a versatile tool for breeding-related applications, including generation advancement and flowering synchronization among divergent accessions. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 2950-3299 34 2 2026 Mitochondrial inhibition enhances the sensitivity of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells to oncolytic adenovirus 201180 EN Ryohei Shoji Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Hiroshi Tazawa Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Shinji Kuroda Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Takeyoshi Nishiyama Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yoshinori Kajiwara Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Motohiko Yamada Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yasuo Nagai Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Hiroaki Inoue Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Naoyuki Hashimoto Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Satoru Kikuchi Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Ryuichi Yoshida Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yuzo Umeda Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yasuo Urata Oncolys BioPharma, Inc. Shunsuke Kagawa Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Toshiyoshi Fujiwara Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences The metabolism of cancer cells is associated with resistance to anticancer therapies. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells exhibit glycolytic and non-glycolytic subtypes. Although oncolytic virotherapy is a novel antitumor modality, the relationship between metabolism and virus sensitivity remains unclear. We demonstrated the cytopathic activity of telomerase-specific, replication-competent oncolytic adenoviruses OBP-301 and p53-armed OBP-702 against PDAC cells. Here, we show the role of metabolism in the virus sensitivity of PDAC cells. The virus sensitivity of human PDAC cells of glycolytic (MIA PaCa-2, PK-45H) and non-glycolytic (PK-59, Capan-2) subtypes was assessed by evaluating replication, glycolysis, and glutamine metabolism through exposure to hypoxia and glucose deprivation or treatment with the mitochondrial metabolism inhibitor CPI-613. Glycolytic PDAC cells were sensitive, and non-glycolytic cells were resistant to oncolytic adenoviruses, which was improved by hypoxia and glucose deprivation or CPI-613 treatment to induce glycolytic activation. OBP-702-mediated p53 activation modulated glutamine metabolism to promote virus sensitivity. In vivo experiments demonstrated the antitumor efficacy of combination therapy with CPI-613 and OBP-702, and the utility of positron emission tomography/computed tomography metabolic parameters for assessing glycolytic activity. Our results suggest that non-glycolytic PDAC cells are refractory to oncolytic adenoviruses. CPI-613 is a promising reagent for overcoming virotherapy resistance in PDAC tumors. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 1366-5545 211 2026 Lease or sale: When a durable goods monopolist can choose supply chain openness 104882 EN Hiroshi Kitamura Faculty of Economics, Kyoto Sangyo University Noriaki Matsushima Osaka School of International Public Policy, University of Osaka Misato Sato Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Okayama University We construct a two-period model of supply chain openness in a durable goods market with two marketing modes: leasing and selling. For a given marketing mode, at the beginning of the first period, an incumbent supplier and the downstream monopolist choose one of two trading modes: (i) a two-period exclusive supply chain, or (ii) an open supply chain, allowing the downstream monopolist to trade with an efficient supplier in the second period. We show that in the selling mode, the exclusive supply chain can arise if the incumbent supplier is highly efficient. In contrast, under the leasing mode, the exclusive supply chain never arises; instead, the open supply chain is always selected. Furthermore, when the downstream monopolist is allowed to endogenously choose the marketing mode before the first period, it opts for the selling mode if the incumbent supplier is relatively inefficient; otherwise, it selects the leasing mode. Regardless of the chosen marketing mode, the open supply chain always arises on the equilibrium path, implying that the recent advancement of ICT to enhance leasing may discourage the adoption of exclusive supply chains. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 2079-6447 5 2 2026 Solution-Processable Near-Infrared-Absorbing Dye: Thiophene-Substituted N-Phenylphenothiazine Radical Cations for Stable Thin Films 14 EN Masafumi Yano Faculty of Chemistry, Material and Bioengineering, Kansai University Kengo Sakai Faculty of Chemistry, Material and Bioengineering, Kansai University Minami Ueda Faculty of Chemistry, Material and Bioengineering, Kansai University Koichi Mitsudo Division of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yukiyasu Kashiwagi Osaka Research Institute of Industrial Science and Technology We report a π-extended N-phenylphenothiazine dye bearing thiophene substituents, designed to address the practical compromise between long-wavelength near-infrared (NIR) absorption and the isolability of a stable radical cation state. The target compound was synthesized via Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling and exhibited good solubility in common organic solvents. Cyclic voltammetry in dichloromethane showed a reversible one-electron oxidation at E0 = 0.19 V vs. Fc/Fc+. Chemical oxidation afforded the corresponding radical cation, which showed an intense NIR absorption maximum at 910 nm. DFT calculations support thiophene-induced narrowing of the HOMO–SOMO gap and predict a pronounced bathochromic shift of the main absorption band. The radical cation was isolated as a stable PF6－ salt and readily processed into spin-coated films, which retained strong NIR absorption and remained stable for months under ambient conditions. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) Acta Medica Okayama 1359-7345 2026 Synthesis of sulfur- and oxygen-bridged cationic [4]-helicenes mediated by Friedel–Crafts-S N Ar tandem reactions for red-light-driven organophotoredox catalysis EN Ryoga Hasebe Graduate School of Environment and Information Sciences, Yokohama National University Rumi Hanada Graduate School of Environment and Information Sciences, Yokohama National University Yuta Tanaka Graduate School of Environment and Information Sciences, Yokohama National University Yuta Goto Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Mio Takeuchi Graduate School of Environment and Information Sciences, Yokohama National University Hiroyoshi Takamura Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Isao Kadota Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kenta Tanaka Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Science, Okayama University Yujiro Hoshino Graduate School of Environment and Information Sciences, Yokohama National University The synthesis of sulfur- and oxygen-bridged cationic [4]-helicenes via a tandem Friedel–Crafts–SNAr reaction of a diaryl sulfide or a diaryl ether with a (thio)salicylic acid has been developed. The sulfur-bridged cationic [4]-helicenes are suitable as catalysts for photoredox reactions under low-energy light sources such as red LED light. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

International Institute of Anticancer Research Acta Medica Okayama 0250-7005 46 4 2026 P53-armed Oncolytic Adenovirus Enhances the Efficacy of PD-1 Blockade in Neuroblastoma by Inducing Immunogenic Cell Death 1769 1784 EN MORIMICHI TANI Department of Pediatric Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences HIROSHI TAZAWA Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences TERUTAKA TANIMOTO Department of Pediatric Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences HIROSHI NOUSO Department of Pediatric Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences HINAKO WATANABE Department of Pediatric Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences TAKANORI OYAMA Department of Pediatric Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences YASUO URATA Oncolys BioPharma, Inc. SHUNSUKE KAGAWA Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences TAKUO NODA Department of Pediatric Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences SHINJI KURODA Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences TOSHIYOSHI FUJIWARA Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Background/Aim: Neuroblastoma (NB) is a primary malignant tumor of the peripheral sympathetic nervous system. Although immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting programmed cell death 1 (PD-1)/PD ligand 1 (PD-L1) has emerged as novel antitumor therapy, high-risk NB tumors are refractory to ICI therapy. Oncolytic virotherapy is expected to potentiate the antitumor immune response by inducing immunogenic cell death (ICD). In the present study, we assessed the therapeutic potential of OBP-301 and OBP-702, telomerase-specific oncolytic adenoviruses, for the induction of ICD and combined effect with PD-1 blockade against NB cells. Materials and Methods: The cytopathic activity of OBP-301 and OBP-702 was assessed using three human MYCN-amplified NB cell lines (IMR-32, LA-N-5, and NB-1) and a murine non-MYCN-amplified NB cell line (Neuro-2a). Virus-mediated antitumor effect was assessed by analyzing cell viability, secretion of extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and high-mobility group box protein B1 (HMGB1), apoptosis, autophagy, and PD-L1 levels. A subcutaneous Neuro-2a tumor model was used to evaluate the in vivo antitumor effect of combination therapy with OBP-702 and anti-PD-1 antibody. Results: OBP-702 exhibited stronger cytopathic activity, inducing ICD with secretion of ATP and HMGB1, compared to OBP-301 in human and murine NB cells. OBP-301 and OBP-702 increased apoptosis, autophagy, and PD-L1 expression in murine NB cells. Moreover, OBP-702 significantly prolonged the survival of tumor-bearing mice compared to monotherapy with PD-1 blockade. Conclusion: OBP-702 is a promising antitumor strategy to promote the antitumor effect of ICIs by inducing ICD against NB tumors. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山大学埋蔵文化財調査研究センター Acta Medica Okayama 2004 遺跡出士の種子集成図録 EN 10.18926/70430 No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 0971-5894 2026 Suppression of salt-enhanced apoplastic flow by salicylic acid in rice EN Md. Asadulla Al Galib Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Maoxiang Zhao Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Toshiyuki Nakamura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoshimasa Nakamura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoshihiko Hirai Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoshitaka Nakashima Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Shintaro Munemasa Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Izumi C. Mori Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Yoshiyuki Murata Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Salinity enhances apoplastic flow, resulting in an increment of Na+ uptake and a lower K+/Na+ ratio. Salicylic acid (SA) plays an important role in improving salinity tolerance in plants. The effect of exogenous SA on apoplastic flow in salt-treated rice seedlings was studied using an apoplastic tracer, 8-hydroxy-1,3,6-pyrenetrisulphonic acid (PTS) in light. Application of NaCl at 25 mM to the hydroponic solution significantly increased PTS uptake, while 25 mM NaCl did not affect seedling growth. Application of 25 mM NaNO3 increased PTS uptake to the same degree. Salinity significantly increased sodium (Na+) content but had no significant effect on potassium (K+) content, resulting in a lower K+/Na+ ratio. The application of SA at 0.05 mM and 0.1 mM to the hydroponic solution reduced Na-enhanced PTS uptake. Salicylic acid at 0.05 mM and 0.1 mM significantly reduced Na+ content and slightly increased K+ content in the shoots of rice seedlings, resulting in a higher K+/Na+ ratio. However, SA at up to 0.1 mM did not increase SA contents in shoots under salt stress. These results suggest that exogenous SA reduces Na+ uptake by suppressing Na+-enhanced apoplastic flow in rice seedlings. These findings provide insight into modulation of Na+ transport pathways from roots to shoots by SA and may allow us to utilize brackish water for rice cultivation and to improve salt-tolerant rice through suppression of salt-enhanced apoplastic flow by chemicals such as salicylic acid. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Acta Medica Okayama 2169-3536 14 2026 A Self-Adaptive Framework for Deploying Machine Learning Systems Without Ground-Truth Data at Runtime 30309 30326 EN Kento Furukawa Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, Osaka University Hiroyuki Nakagawa Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Tatsuhiro Tsuchiya Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, Osaka University In recent years, the practical application of machine learning technology has rapidly progressed, accelerating its adoption across various fields. In this context, studies into the effective operation of machine learning systems in real-world environments have become essential. In actual operational settings, the distribution of input data often changes over time, leading to a significant decline in the predictive performance of models. Additionally, the lack of ground-truth data for test data during operation can sometimes make adaptation through retraining difficult. This study proposes a framework that autonomously adapts to changes in input data distribution, even in environments where ground-truth data for test data is unavailable during operation. This framework analyzes the distribution of input data and selects the appropriate predictive model based on the state of the distribution. To ensure optimal model selection, the framework employs two complementary approaches: 1) dynamically switching between multiple pre-trained models with different feature sets according to environmental changes and 2) building ensemble models based on the distribution of the test data. These approaches enable the framework to autonomously adapt to shifts in data distribution, even in operational settings where ground-truth data is unavailable. Evaluation experiments using both simulated and real-world data assessed the predictive performance of the proposed method through metrics such as R2, RMSE, and MAE. Compared to conventional single model predictions, the proposed method consistently demonstrated higher accuracy. These results indicate that the proposed approach effectively adapts to data distribution shifts in operational environments where ground-truth data is unavailable. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山大学教育推進機構教師教育開発センター Acta Medica Okayama 2186-1323 16 2026 大学院共通科目『リーダーシップとSDGs』の教育モデル構築と成果分析理論学習・ピアレビュー・省察活動によるリーダーシップ教育の新展開 221 235 EN Mamoru ISHIDA Faculty of General Education and Global Studies, Okayama University Shinichi OTSUNE Graduate student, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Takuya NAKAZAWA Graduate student, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University 10.18926/CTED/70371 　岡山大学大学院では、博士課程人材のリーダーシップ育成に向け、共通科目『リーダーシップとSDGs』を設計・実践している。本科目はSDGsに貢献するリーダー育成に主眼を置き、理論学習・ピアレビュー・省察・グループディスカッション等の手法を組み合わせ、学生同士の学び合い・自己成長の促進を目的としている。本稿では、学部・研究科ごとに学習成果を分析し、理論に基づく省察的学びと協働的な批評活動がリーダーシップ理解や成長に有用であることを明らかにした。本研究は、学術的理論と実践的活動を織り交ぜたモデル構築と、その継続的改善の意義を示している。 No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山大学教育推進機構教師教育開発センター Acta Medica Okayama 2186-1323 16 2026 ドイツ付近の夏の気候とシューベルトの歌曲《春に》異質な他者との出会いを促す大学での学際的授業の報告 75 89 EN Kuranoshin KATO Faculty of Education, Okayama University Isao NAGAOKA Faculty of Education, Okayama University Haruko KATO Faculty of Education, Gufu Shotoku Gakuen University (Former affiliation) 10.18926/CTED/70361 　「異質な他者」への出会いを促す授業例の更なる蓄積のため，ドイツ付近の「夏」の気候と季節感に注目した教科横断的な授業を大学で実践した。授業では，ドイツ付近の気候と季節サイクルの中での「夏」の特徴を把握すると共に，シューベルトの歌曲《春に》を鑑賞した。《春に》の3 番の「夏の間じゅう，ずっと」という歌詞で歌われている情景や情感が，ドイツ付近と日本付近を想定した場合にどう違い得るか，に関する受講生の記述を分析した。その結果，日本の夏の高温多湿な環境からは原詩の情感そのものが成立し難いと感じた学生もいるなど，本実践は，自分たちの「当たり前」とは異なる気候や季節感にも目を向ける機会になり得たといえる。一方，日本とはかなり違う気候背景の中でシューベルトが思い描いたであろう情景・心情に授業で深く迫るための，音楽表現自体への踏み込み方についても，今後検討する必要性が示唆された。 No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

一般社団法人粉体粉末冶金協会 Acta Medica Okayama 0532-8799 73 3 2026 熱間静水圧加圧法を用いたイットリア安定化ジルコニア緻密層の低温形成 55 59 EN Kyohei MANABE Osaka Gas Co. Ltd. Mitsuaki ECHIGO Osaka Gas Co. Ltd. Akira KISHIMOTO Institute of Academic and Research, Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University The sintering conditions using hot isostatic press (HIP) of yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) were investigated to obtain a dense YSZ layer at low sintering temperature such as 1000°C for an electrolyte of metal-supported solid oxide fuel cell. It was found that a dense YSZ pellet with relative density of 93% could be obtained under a sintering condition of 1000°C-10 hours with HIP in 195 MPa. On the other hand, in X-ray diffraction analysis of the dense YSZ pellet, peaks of the monoclinic phase were slightly detected in addition to peaks of the cubic phase. From energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis, a small amount of boron was detected in the dense YSZ pellet. It is considered that the YSZ crystalline phase transformation of cubic to monoclinic phase was occurred by the boron diffusion from the diffusion barrier coating of metal foil capsule used for the HIP. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山大学農学部附属山陽圏フィールド科学センター Acta Medica Okayama 0910-8742 46 2024 序 i i EN No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Oxford University Press (OUP) Acta Medica Okayama 1467-5463 27 1 2026 SGCRNA: spectral clustering-guided co-expression network analysis without scale-free constraints for multi-omic data bbag021 EN Tatsunori Osone Department of Regenerative Science, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Tomoka Takao Department of Regenerative Science, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Shigeo Otake Department of Regenerative Science, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Takeshi Takarada Department of Regenerative Science, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) is among the most widely employed methods in bioinformatics. WGCNA enables the identification of gene clusters (modules) exhibiting correlated expression patterns, the association of these modules with traits, and the exploration of candidate biomarker genes by focusing on hub genes within the modules. WGCNA has been successfully applied in diverse biological contexts. However, conventional algorithms manifest three principal limitations: the assumption of scale-free topology, the requirement for parameter tuning, and the neglect of regression line slopes. These limitations are addressed by SGCRNA. SGCRNA provides Julia functions for the analysis of co-expression networks derived from various types of biological data, such as gene expression data. The Julia packages and their source code are freely available at https://github.com/C37H41N2O6/SGCRNAs.jl. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 2045-2322 16 1 2026 Tribolium castaneum with longer duration of tonic immobility have more variations corresponding to the human Parkinson’s disease genomic region 8840 EN Keisuke Tanaka NODAI Genome Research Center, Tokyo University of Agriculture Ken Sasaki Graduate School of Agriculture, Tamagawa University Shunsuke Yajima NODAI Genome Research Center, Tokyo University of Agriculture Takahisa Miyatake Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative syndrome characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons and is also a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that is characterized by dopamine deficiency. We established strains artificially selected for longer and shorter durations of tonic immobility, an antipredator behavior that has received much attention recently, in the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum, a model insect species for molecular analyses different from Drosophila melanogaster. Previous studies have shown that the long strains (L-strain) have significantly lower levels of dopamine expression in the brain than the short strains (S-strain) and that they have an abnormal pattern of locomotor activity. Furthermore, previous studies have shown that administering dopamine to L-strain beetles reduces the duration of tonic immobility. Transcriptome analysis of brain and thorax of the L- and S-strains also showed differences in mRNA expression of genes involved in dopamine synthesis and tyrosine metabolism. These results indicate that the phenotype and molecular basis of the L-strain are similar to those of Parkinson’s syndrome symptoms. In order to establish a link between T. castaneum and PD, we compared the DNA sequences of the L- and S-strains to human genes affecting dopaminergic pathways. The DNA comparison revealed many mutated regions in these genes in the L-strain. We discuss the relationship between dopaminergic pathway genes and PD-like phenotypes across humans, Drosophila, and the red flour beetle. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Asian Agricultural and Biological Engineering Association Acta Medica Okayama 1881-8366 19 1 2026 Biosensing method of growth diagnosis in the forced culture of strawberries ―Development of crop-identification algorithms― 42 50 EN Shogo TSUBOTA Institute of Agricultural Machinery, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization Kazuhiko NAMBA Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Shota KASEI Institute of Agricultural Machinery, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization Tokihiro FUKATSU Institute of Agricultural Machinery, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization An image-processing algorithm for identifying individual crops is developed for labor-savings and time-series biological information collection. Information including the leaf development frequency are diagnostic indicators of strawberry growth. The algorithm is designed for drones in greenhouses that cannot acquire location information using the global navigation satellite system (GNSS). Drones fly over crop rows and sequentially assign identification numbers (IDs) to crops. Object-detection artificial intelligence (AI) is used to estimate the crop zone, and the ID is based on the crops number difference between frames. The previous misdetection rate was 1.06 %, failing to identify crops, which decreases to 0.31 % using the proposed algorithm. Furthermore, because there are no failures in consecutive frames, IDs are assigned to all crops correctly. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 2211-7156 18 2025 Development of FTase inhibitors inspired by the structures of andrastins 102828 EN Fumino Kitamura Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama Masaru Tanioka Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama Ayano Kosaka Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama Nao Matsuzawa Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama Takayuki Obita Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama Yuko Sakajiri Tomokazu Shibata Department of Complex Systems Science, Graduate School of Informatics, Nagoya University Ryusuke Sawada Department of Pharmacology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Takeshi Yokoyama Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama Aki Kohyama Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama Tsuyoshi Yamada Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama Yoshihiro Yamanishi Department of Complex Systems Science, Graduate School of Informatics, Nagoya University Mineyuki Mizuguchi Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama Yuji Matsuya Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama We designed and synthesized structurally simple farnesyl transferase (FTase) inhibitors (1a–1d) by leveraging andrastin, a natural product with FTase inhibitory activity. 1a–1d possess a cyclopentane-1,3-dione core, which is critical for FTase recognition; a farnesyl moiety, which is a simplified motif of A to C rings of andrastin; and a carboxylic acid or methoxycarbonyl group, which enables multipoint hydrogen bonding interactions with FTase. Competitive inhibition experiments revealed that 1d has the most potent FTase inhibitory activity. Docking simulation analysis of 1a–1d with FTase suggested that the multipoint hydrogen bonding interactions between the cyclopentane-1,3-dione moiety and the carboxyl group play an important role in FTase recognition. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山大学理学部地球科学科 Acta Medica Okayama 1340-7414 32 1 2026 寒風古窯跡群須恵器の岩石学的研究 9 19 EN Taiji ANAMI Department of Earth Sciences, Okayama University Toshio NOZAKA Department of Earth Sciences, Okayama University Osamu KIMURA Department of Archaeology, Osaka University 10.18926/ESR/70295 　The Sabukaze kiln site, a representative ancient tunnel-kiln site in the Kibi region, worked during the Asuka period (from early 7th century to early 8th century) to produce Sue ware including jars, cups, coffins, and ornamental tiles. To determine the provenance of the materials used for the Sue ware, we carried out petrological analyses of 13 Sue sherds, including optical microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and electron-probe analysis. In spite of the difference of production time, all the Sue sherds show close similarities in modal proportion of mineral inclusions with dominant quartz and feldspar, and minor volcanic glass, in chemical compositions of feldspar and interstitial matrix, and in whole-sherd chemical composition. These similarities suggest that the paste materials of the Sabukaze Sue ware were commonly derived from weathered rhyolitic rocks and obtained from the same or neighboring mining site(s) located near the kiln site. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山大学理学部地球科学科 Acta Medica Okayama 1340-7414 32 1 2026 岡山平野児島湾岸部での微動アレイ探査 1 7 EN Nobuyuki YAMADA Faculty of Science and Technology, Kochi University Hiroshi TAKENAKA Department of Earth Sciences, Okayama University 10.18926/ESR/70294 　This report describes microtremor array observations conducted at two sites for deep exploration and three sites for shallow exploration around Kojima Bay area in the southern Okayama Plain. Based on these records, the ground velocity structures were estimated. The results yielded solutions indicating the depth of the top of the seismic base layer (equivalent to 3 km/s layer) ranges from 140 to 300 m, while the depth of the top of the engineering basement layer (equivalent to 0.6 km/s layer) is approximately about 13–14 m. The shallow exploration results also suggested the possible presence of an inversion layer. These estimated velocity structure models provided a reasonable explanation for the observed phase velocities. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山大学大学院社会文化科学研究科 Acta Medica Okayama 1881-1671 61 2026 環境支出は企業リスクを軽減するのか？日本企業の実証分析 155 174 EN YUSRA NAZIR 10.18926/70283 　This study examines how environmental conservation costs (ECC) affects firm risk, using changes in leverage ratios and earnings volatility as stand-ins for risk. This study evaluates the direct impact of ECC and its relationship to profitability (ROA) using panel data of Japanese companies from 2010 to 2022 and Pooled OLS regression models. The results demonstrate the risk-mitigating function of sustainability investments by showing that, although independent ECC have little direct significance, their interaction with firm profitability dramatically lowers earnings volatility and leverage instability. These findings underscore the economic value of environmental strategies, suggesting that incorporating profitability considerations into sustainability practices enhances operational stability and reduces risk exposure. To help policymakers, investors, and corporate managers strike a balance between sustainability and financial performance, this study contributes to the growing body of research on the relationship between the environment and finance. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山大学考古学研究室 Acta Medica Okayama 2026 岡山市向場・黒住丘陵の遺跡測量調査概要報告 EN 10.18926/70272 No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山大学経済学会 Acta Medica Okayama 2433-4146 57 3 2026 AI 共生時代における消費者行動の再理論化―AIBCBM フレームワーク― 41 91 EN Sawut Shazadigul Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Okayama University 10.18926/OER/70263 　本研究は，AIが意思決定の前段階から介入する環境において，企業・消費者・AIの三者相互作用を体系的に説明する理論枠組みとして，Artificial Intelligence-Based Consumer Behavior Model（AIBCBM）を構築し，提示することを目的とする。まず，既存の消費者行動モデルが，アルゴリズム露出，再帰的学習ループ，AI媒介型社会的影響（Algorithmic Social Influence）といった現代的現象を十分に扱えないという決定的な理論的限界を明らかにする。そのうえで，AI共生時代における消費者行動を，「企業－AI－消費者」の三者循環構造として捉えるAIBCBMを提示する。 　モデル構築に際しては，複雑な現実を過度に単純化するのではなく，三者共進化構造モデル（図２），行動生成の動態を示す行動プロセスモデル（表３），概念構造モデル（図３），行動類型モデル（図４）に分離することで，理論的明瞭性と分析可能性を確保した。本研究の理論的貢献は，①System １を行動生成メカニズムとして再定義した点，②意思決定主体と権力構造を再定義した点，③消費者行動における非線形・高速フィードバックループを理論化した点，④非消費やJOMOを，幸福と主体性に根ざした戦略的行動として理論的に再定義した点，⑤消費者行動を「意思決定モデル」から「行動生成モデル」へ理論的に転換した点に集約される。さらに，本研究が提示する，アルゴリズムによる効用の向上と自律性の毀損が併存しうるという二面性は，AI時代におけるマーケティング戦略および政策設計に対して，規範的かつ理論的な新たな評価軸を提供する。AIBCBMは，これらの視座を統合する理論的プラットフォームとして，今後の実証研究に向けた基盤として機能する。とりわけ， AIBCBMは，JOMOや非消費行動を，アルゴリズム環境からの受動的撤退ではなく，AIによって構築された選択環境との距離を意図的に調整し，人間らしさ（人間としての主体性やウェルビーイング）を保持するための戦略的行動として位置づける点に独自性を有する。さらに本モデルは，AI設計（企業側）・アルゴリズム動態（AI側）・主体性とウェルビーイング（Well-being）（消費者側）を同一枠組みで接続することで，AI共生時代の実証研究と規範設計を架橋する理論的座標軸を確立する。 No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 1478-811X 24 1 2026 MMP-3 cleavage of Lamin A induces pro-migratory nuclear deformity, nucleophagy, and their autophagic secretion with extracellular vesicles in metastatic cancer 146 EN Takanori Eguchi Department of Dental Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Eman A. Taha Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University Keisuke Nakano Department of Oral Pathology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Vikas Tiwari Council of Scientific & Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Toxicological Research Katsuki Takebe Department of Dental Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Tomohiro Inoue Department of Dental Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Lizi Xing Department of Dental Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Chiharu Sogawa Department of Food and Health Sciences, Faculty of Environmental Studies, Hiroshima Institute of Technology Kuniaki Okamoto Department of Dental Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Stuart K. Calderwood Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of zinc-dependent proteinases that cleave a plethora of substrates, including components of the extracellular matrix and cell-surface-associated proteins, as well as intracellular targets. MMPs have also been found in extracellular vesicles (EVs), such as exosomes. MMP-3 promotes tumor growth, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, genome instability, migration, invasion, and metastasis of cancer cells, and nuclear MMP-3 controls gene transcription. Intranuclear proteolysis by MMPs may significantly alter cancer progression. However, the nuclear substrates of MMP-3 have not been well investigated. In this study, we performed proteomic analyses to identify the nuclear substrates and EV proteins regulated by MMP-3. While rabidly metastatic colon cancer (LuM1) three-dimensionally cultured tumoroids secreted EVs containing 30 protein types, including Lamin A (LMNA), MMP-3, fibronectin (FN1), HSPA8 (Hsc70), β-actin (ACTB), and vimentin (VIM), CRISPR/Cas9-based knockout of MMP-3 reduced the secretion of these proteins in EVs. Notably, EV-bound cleaved Lamin secretion was confirmed by immunoelectron microscopy. Also, MMP-3 formed proteolytic dimers via its hemopexin-like repeat domains in nuclei. Many nuclear MMP-3-binding proteins, including Lamin A/C, histones, topoisomerases, and hnRNPs, were screened by co-immunoprecipitation followed by proteomics. Proteolytic MMP-3 overexpression generated a C-terminal 30-kDa fragment of Lamin A, whose cleavage site was defined via structural analysis. MMP-3 digestion of Lamin A induced nuclear deformity (atypia) required for cell migration in confined space. The cleaved Lamin A and MMP-3 were transported with autophagosomes (LC3B+), nucleophagosomes, and amphisomes (CD63 + LC3B+) and co-secreted with EVs. Proteolytic MMP-3 also induced nuclear speckles of Lamin A, suggesting their roles in transcription and splicing. Clinical analysis revealed that high expressions of MMP3 and LMNA were significantly seen in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) than in the other 16 cancer types, and predicted poor prognosis of patients suffering from HNSC, pancreatic, rectum and lung adenocarcinomas at specific stages. Immunohistochemistry revealed that nuclear MMP-3 and cleaved Lamin were significantly higher expressed in stage IV metastatic HNSC cases than in stage I non-metastatic cases. Taken together, MMP3-cleavage of Lamin A induces nuclear deformity, nucleophagy, and their autophagic co-secretion with EVs in metastatic cancer. Also, high expression of MMP-3 and secretion of Lamin A can predict poor prognosis in multiple cancer types at specific stages. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 0145-305X 165 2025 Local immune response induced by intra-fin antigen injection in Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes) is a useful model for immunological studies 105344 EN Tsukasa Ryu Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Laboratory of Marine Biochemistry, Kyushu University Mizuki Yoshino Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Laboratory of Marine Biology, Kyushu University William Ka Fai Tse Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Laboratory of Developmental Disorders and Toxicology, Kyushu University Satoshi Ansai Ushimado Marine Institute, Faculty of Science, Okayama University Taisen Iguchi Graduate School of Nanobioscience, Yokohama City University Anu Kumar Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, CSIRO Environment Tomonori Somamoto Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Laboratory of Marine Biochemistry, Kyushu University Miki Nakao Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Laboratory of Marine Biochemistry, Kyushu University Yukiko Ogino Center for Promotion of International Education and Research, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University Teleost fishes play a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of immune system evolution because they retain the ancient characteristics of vertebrate immunity, encompassing both innate and adaptive immune systems. Among these, innate immunity plays a critical role in fish as the first line of defense, coordinating rapid responses to pathogen infections. However, the lack of fish-specific immunological methodologies has limited progress in elucidating fish immune mechanisms. To better understand how the innate immune response develops and resolves in fish, detailed observation and integrative analysis of leukocytes at multiple time points is necessary. In the present study, an intra-fin injection method for observing local immune responses in Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes) was tested and optimized to analyze the progression of zymosan-induced innate immune responses. Zymosan-injected medaka showed a rapid immune response characterized by leukocyte recruitment and phagocytosis. Using TG(FmpxP:mCherry) transgenic medaka with mCherry fluorescence driven by myeloperoxidase (mpx) promoter, granulocyte chemotaxis towards the site of zymosan entry was successfully visualized. The rapid increase in tumor necrosis factor α (tnfa), interleukin-1β (il1b), interleukin-6 (il6), and CXC motif chemokine ligand 8 (cxcl8) expressions in zymosan-injected anal fins provided a molecular basis for the visualized tissue-specific cellular response. Our study underscores the dynamic orchestration of immune components during the innate immune response in Japanese medaka and highlights their potential as a promising model for immunological research. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山大学大学院教育学研究科 Acta Medica Okayama 1883-2423 191 2026 インドの小・中学校理科における気候変動に関する内容の取り扱い ― NCERT 発行の教科書に注目して ― 119 130 EN Ken KAWAI Okayama University Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences Science Doctoral Course Hiroki FUJII Faculty of Education, Okayama University 10.18926/bgeou/70201 　本研究は，インドの国家教育政策2020および国家カリキュラム・フレームワーク2023に基づいて作成された NCERT 発行の学校教科書（第3～8 学年）を対象に，理科的内容を扱う教科の気候変動に関する内容の取り扱いの現状を分析した。分析では UNESCO による SDGs のための教育と Kagawa & Selby の「理解・緩和・適応」の考え方をもとに観点を設け，記述を抽出・分類した。その結果，初等教育段階の「The World Around Us」では生活世界に根ざした環境配慮の態度と行動の基礎形成が重視され，前期中等教育段階の「Science」では科学的な因果関係や気候変動対策の国際的枠組みが導入されており段階的深化が確認された。一方で，概念導入の遅れ，因果連鎖の不統一，行動変容に至る仕組みの弱さ，学際性の不足や語彙や概念の習得のスパイラルな学習の不足が明らかになった。現行教科書は，体系的かつ実効的な気候変動教育には未だ不十分であり，今後の改善が求められることを指摘した。 No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers Acta Medica Okayama 2187-9745 12 5 2025 Examining OpenFOAM-based LES analysis in terms of inviscid energy conservation and viscous turbulence decay 25-00095 EN Hiroki SUZUKI Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kento TANAKA Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Toshinori KOUCHI Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University The present study examines an OpenFOAM-based LES analysis from the viewpoints of inviscid energy conservation and viscous turbulence decay. The Smagorinsky model is employed as the sub-grid scale (SGS) model, and a two-dimensional periodic analytical solution and a three-dimensional periodic Taylor-Green vortex (TGV) are employed to represent inviscid flows. The analytical relationship for the kinetic energy K, dK/dt = 0, with t as the dimensionless time, is utilized to validate the OpenFOAM results. For the viscous flow case, the TGV flow in a three-dimensional periodic cubic domain is adopted, and its turbulence kinetic energy distribution is compared with that obtained by a spectral method to examine the analysis. The OpenFOAM-based analysis exhibits energy conservation error in flows that should ideally conserve energy. For the two-dimensional flow, this error decreases with increasing grid resolution N. However, in the three-dimensional flow, the error does not improve even with higher N. In the three-dimensional TGV flow, the turbulence kinetic energy predicted by OpenFOAM exhibits a strong agreement with that from the spectral method when a standard constant value of the Smagorinsky model is employed and the mesh is sufficiently refined. Conversely, for a condition of relatively coarse mesh, the decay characteristics of turbulent kinetic energy deviate from those of the spectral method, and a higher constant value of the Smagorinsky model than the default value becomes necessary to reproduce comparable results. These results suggests that even in LES simulations where highly accurate conservation laws are not satisfied, adjusting the model constants so that the predicted values match experimental or numerical reference data can improve the apparent reliability of the turbulent kinetic energy in the decaying turbulence. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 1345-2630 2026 Tabtoxin biosynthetic gene cluster in Pseudomonas syringae pv. tabaci 6605 genomic island 1 (GI-1Pta6605) is required for severe disease symptoms EN Kotomi Kunishi The Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Norika Fujisawa The Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Hidenori Matsui The Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Nanami Sakata The Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yoshiteru Noutoshi The Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kazuhiro Toyoda The Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yuki Ichinose The Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University One of the genomic islands in Pseudomonas syringae pv. tabaci 6605 (GI-1Pta6605) has been identified as a pathogenicity island required for virulence because the deletion almost completely eliminated disease symptoms in inoculation tests at 4 × 105 CFU/ml. GI-1Pta6605 contains four cargo regions (CRs) named CR-1 to CR-4. The ∆CR-4 mutant did not produce tabtoxin like ∆GI-1 and disease symptoms did not develop in tobacco. However, it grew, although to a lesser extent than the wild-type strain. These results indicate that the tabtoxin biosynthetic gene cluster in GI-1 is required for virulence but not for establishment of compatibility. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 0956-7135 183 2026 Monitoring postharvest water loss in eggplants (Solanum melongena L.) using UV-induced fluorescence imaging and multivariate analysis 111902 EN Vincent Rotich Laboratory of Biosensing Engineering, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University Tianqi Gao Laboratory of Biosensing Engineering, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University Panintorn Prempree Laboratory of Biosensing Engineering, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University Takahiro Hayashi Laboratory of Biosensing Engineering, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University Kazuhiko Namba Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Mitsuji Monta Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Motomi Nishimoto Technology and Innovation Center, Daikin Industries, Ltd. Naoshi Kondo Laboratory of Biosensing Engineering, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is susceptible to significant postharvest losses primarily due to water loss during storage, which affects market quality by causing texture and glossiness degradation. We investigated whether UV-induced fluorescence imaging and EEM (Excitation-Emission Matrix) fluorescence spectroscopy can non-destructively monitor WL under four storage regimes (10 °C/95 % RH, 20 °C/95 % RH, 20 °C/75 % RH, 10 °C/75 % RH). EEMs exhibited three regions; a 365/420 nm blue emission increased most under warm, low-humidity storage and is consistent with phenolic/lignin-related fluorescence. Side-view fluorescence (FL) images showed progressive blue-white emission and surface textural changes that tracked gravimetric water loss (WL). A PLSR model using combined color and texture features from FL and reflectance (CL) images achieved R2CV = 0.88 (RMSECV = 3.47 %) with only six features. To test a minimal predictor, we fit an Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) using Day-1 FL MeanBlue as a covariate and storage category as a factor with Leave One Out Cross-validation (LOOCV); this forecasted cumulative WL with R2LOOCV = 0.92 and MAE = 1.88 %. Importantly, this ANCOVA model using Day-1 blue-band fluorescence as a covariate was predictive only under 20 °C/75 % RH; under the other conditions, its contribution was weak. Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) and Support Vector Machine (SVM) models achieved accuracies of 94.4 % and 85.2 %, respectively, in differentiating storage conditions. These results support low-cost FL imaging as a practical tool to monitor WL and storage stress. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

大阪府保険医協会 Acta Medica Okayama 54 713 2026 『光が見える』人工網膜の可能性 ― 有機色素分子を部材とする世界初の医療機器「光電変換色素薄膜型人工網膜OUReP」 13 21 EN Toshihiko Matsuo Tetsuya Uchida Hiroshi Ishikane 　網膜色素変性や加齢黄斑変性では、光を細胞膜電位に変換する網膜視細胞が死んでいるが、視神経として脳に連絡する神経節細胞は生き残っている。人工網膜は視細胞を代替する人工物で、光を受け電流を出力する電極アレイ型が主流であるが、電流は拡散するため解像度向上が難しい。そこで人工網膜の解像度向上を目指して、光を電位差に変換する光電変換色素分子を絶縁体のポリエチレン薄膜表面に共有結合した光電変換色素薄膜型の人工網膜OURePを開発してきた。この人工網膜OURePは光受容と電位出力の一体型で外部起電力は不要、手術では薄膜を鋏で切って眼内に植込む大きさを自由に選べる。使い捨てインジェクタを使って薄膜を丸め眼球の網膜下に硝子体手術で植込み、網膜下に植込んだ人工網膜OURePは光を受けて電位差を出力し隣接する網膜組織の神経細胞の活動電位を誘発する。クリーンルームで製造品質管理を行い、安全性と有効性を証明して、医師主導治験を準備している。今後、日本の国民皆保険が維持できるよう比較安価な適正価格の人工網膜治療を提供したい。 No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Oxford University Press (OUP) Acta Medica Okayama 2752-6542 5 1 2025 Chloroplast heat shock protein cpHsc70-1 interacts with thylakoid membrane remodeling protein VIPP1 C-terminal tail and controls VIPP1 oligomer assembly pgaf393 EN Di Li Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Sarah Wanjiru Gachie Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Shin-ichiro Ozawa Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Martin Scholz Institute of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, University of Münster Michael Hippler Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Wataru Sakamoto Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Oxygenic photosynthetic organisms depend on the thylakoid membranes (TMs) for light-driven energy conversion. Recent studies on TM homeostasis (thylakostasis) have highlighted the essential role of the TM remodeling protein vesicle-inducing protein in plastid 1 (VIPP1). As a member of the endosomal sorting complexes required for transport-III (ESCRT-III)/phage shock protein A (PspA)/VIPP1 superfamily, VIPP1 forms large ring- and filament-like homo-oligomeric structures that exhibit a membrane remodeling activity. The oligomerization status was proposed to be modulated by the intrinsically disordered C-terminal tail (Vc), whereas its functional role remained unclear. Notably, this Vc region is conserved not only in photosynthetic VIPP1 but also in the PspA proteins of extremophilic species, implicating its role in membrane stress responses. To investigate the role of the Vc region in VIPP1 assembly, we performed coimmunoprecipitation assays in Arabidopsis chloroplasts and identified chloroplast-localized HSP70 proteins (cpHsc70) as major interactors. Among the two isoforms, cpHsc70-1 was found to be specifically required for modulating VIPP1 oligomeric assembly and dynamics in response to heat stress. Genetic analyses revealed that cpHsc70-1 facilitates the disassembly of VIPP1 oligomers, similarly to Vps4 ATPase in ESCRT-III; loss of either the Vc region or cpHsc70-1-impaired VIPP1 disassembly, resulting in more static oligomeric structures. Furthermore, cpHsc70-1 exhibited a broader role in chloroplast proteostasis, as the cphsc70-1 mutant showed impaired accumulation of green fluorescent protein (GFP)-fusion proteins. Together, our findings uncover a crucial crosstalk between proteostasis and thylakostasis in chloroplasts, coordinated by cpHsc70-1 and VIPP1 in response to membrane stress. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

American Society for Horticultural Science Acta Medica Okayama 0018-5345 61 2 2026 Interactive Effects of Maximum Daytime and Minimum Nighttime Temperatures on Spinach Growth and Physiological Characteristics 444 451 EN Nethone Samba Faculty of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Fukushima University Hisao Akasaka The United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Iwate University, Iwate, 020-8550, Japan; and Iwate Agricultural Research Center, Kenpoku Agricultural Research Institute Ken-ichiro Yasuba Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Tanjuro Goto Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Minori Hikawa-Endo Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoko Miyama Faculty of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Fukushima University, Fukushima, 960-1296, Japan; and The United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Iwate University High temperatures restrict spinach growth, and the plant’s growth and physiological responses to heat remain poorly understood. It remains unclear whether high daytime or elevated nighttime temperatures have a more negative impact on spinach growth. In addition, the interaction effect of maximum daytime and minimum nighttime temperatures on spinach growth remains unknown. This study was conducted to address these issues. Spinach was grown in controlled environments under four temperature treatments: 30 and 20 °C (T30/20), 30 and 25 °C (T30/25), 35 and 20 °C (T35/20), and 35 and 25 °C (T35/25). These treatments represent the maximum daytime temperature and minimum nighttime temperature, respectively, and were maintained for 45 days. Plant growth characteristics were monitored, and the physiological responses to temperature regimes were assessed. The results show that compared with T30/20, dry matter production decreased by 15.4% with increased nighttime temperature (T30/25), decreased by 42.3% with increased daytime temperature (T35/20), and decreased by 57.7% when both daytime and nighttime temperatures were increased (T35/25). However, there was no statistically significant interaction effect (P > 0.05) between daytime maximum and nighttime minimum temperatures on plant biomass production variables. In comparison with T30/20, the T35/25 treatment increased significantly plant stomatal conductance, stomatal apertures, transpiration rate, and leaf temperature during heat waves. The T35/25 treatment also decreased the quantum efficiency in light compared with the other treatments. Plant biomass production did not improve with the T35/20 and T35/25 treatments, likely as a result of a decoupling of photosynthesis and stomatal conductance during heat waves. Overall, these results reveal that maximum daytime and minimum nighttime temperatures exert additive effects on spinach growth. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Japanese Society for Horticultural Science Acta Medica Okayama 2189-0102 94 4 2025 Effects of Intermittent Low-temperature Storage Duration and Cycle on the Bolting and Flowering of Delphinium elatum in Summer 522 529 EN Mika Kawai Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Miwa Fukuyasu Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yoshiyuki Tanaka Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University Yoshikuni Kitamura Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Ken-ichiro Yasuba Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yuichi Yoshida Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Tanjuro Goto Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Early-bolting in summer is a major problem when growing delphinium seedlings in summer to produce cut flowers that will be shipped in autumn and winter. In this study, an intermittent low-temperature storage (ILTS) treatment that induces flower bud differentiation in strawberry and prevents rosette formation in Eustoma significantly increased the Delphinium elatum cut flower length. Moreover, ILTS was as effective as growing seedlings under cool conditions at preventing early-bolting. We analyzed the effects of six ILTS treatments that differed regarding the treatment temperature (5 and 10°C) and treatment cycle (3 days/3 days, 6 days/6 days, and 12 days/12 days; ambient conditions/cool and dark). Cut flowers were significantly longer with the 6 days/6 days treatment at 10°C than for the control treatment. Furthermore, repeating the ILTS treatment cycle (6 days ambient conditions/6 days at 10°C) a total of four times produced high-quality cut flowers regardless of the cultivar. Therefore, this ILTS treatment may be ideal for preventing early-bolting in D. elatum. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Japanese Society for Horticultural Science Acta Medica Okayama 2189-0102 95 1 2026 Comparison of Fruit Development, Ripening, and Transcriptome Dynamics in Taiwanese and Japanese Cultivars of Japanese Apricot (Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc.) 10 20 EN Tomoaki Kashiwamoto Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Takashi Kawai Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Takaaki Oe Japanese Apricot Laboratory, Wakayama Fruit Tree Experiment Station Koji Numaguchi Japanese Apricot Laboratory, Wakayama Fruit Tree Experiment Station Yuto Kitamura Faculty of Agriculture, Setsunan University Yasutaka Kubo Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Fumio Fukuda Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Koichiro Ushijima Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University In this study, we compared changes in traits associated with fruit development and ripening in Taiwanese and Japanese cultivars of Japanese apricot (Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc.). We also analyzed transcriptome profiles to comprehensively examine different fruit development and ripening patterns between the two groups in terms of fruit characteristics and gene expression. Early fruit development in Taiwanese cultivars ‘ST’ and ‘Ellching’ and the Japanese cultivar ‘Hakuo’ was ahead of that in other three Japanese cultivars (P1). From late April to early May, around the stone-hardening stage, the developmental differences decreased to the same level. Thereafter, Japanese cultivars showed rapid growth, whereas Taiwanese cultivars showed slower growth, reversing the developmental differences between these lines (P2). Ethylene production was not detected until the full ripening stage and was detected for the first time at this stage in five cultivars, except for ‘Ellching’ (P3). In contrast, no ethylene production was observed during the entire duration of fruit development in ‘Ellching’. A multidimensional scaling plot showed that the overall transcriptome profile changed according to the three stages (P1–P3) of fruit development and ripening. At P1, gene ontologies (GOs) related to cell division, such as the cell cycle and regulation of cyclin-dependent protein serine/threonine kinase activity, were enriched for differentially expressed genes downregulated in Taiwanese cultivars as compared with their expression in Japanese cultivars. At P2, GOs related to fruit development were not enriched, but some genes related to phytohormones, such as auxin, abscisic acid, and cytokinin, which are associated with fruit development and ripening, were differentially expressed. At P3, the expression of genes such as ACS, ACO, and PG, which are involved in ethylene biosynthesis, increased in response to increased ethylene production, but not in ‘Ellching’, which showed no ethylene production. Expression analysis of 115 NAC (NAM-ATAF1/2-CUC2) family genes, which are related to fruit ripening and ripening date in other fruit species, in the ‘Ellching’ genome revealed changes in expression of NAC056 and NAC073 corresponding to fruit development and ripening in Taiwanese and Japanese cultivars. We discuss the differences in fruit development and ripening behaviors between Taiwanese and Japanese cultivars in terms of physiological and transcriptome changes. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山大学農学部 Acta Medica Okayama 2186-7755 115 2026 北海道東部の森林において林冠木の細根が土壌窒素動態に与える影響 9 12 EN Masataka Nakayama Course of Environmental Ecology 　Plants release mixtures of labile organic matter from their fine roots (root exudates) into the surrounding soil (rhizosphere). Partly due to the release of root exudates, microbial community structures and their activities within the rhizosphere differ significantly from those in other soil areas (bulk soil). Consequently, nutrient cycling processes, including nitrogen mineralization, are accelerated in the rhizosphere, facilitating nutrient acquisition by plants. This phenomenon, known as the rhizosphere effect, has been repeatedly reported in studies of herbaceous plants; however, the impact of canopy tree fine roots on soil nitrogen dynamics through the effect in forest ecosystems remains largely unknown. Here, I introduce our research investigating the root exudates and rhizosphere effects of the fine roots of canopy trees, Quercus crispula, and how these fine roots affect soil nitrogen dynamics. The quantity of root exudates varied daily rather than seasonally, with solar radiation having a strong and positive effect on the amounts. However, even after leaf fall, root exudation was observed. In the rhizosphere, specific bacterial communities were present regardless of season, while ectomycorrhizal fungal populations were higher than in the bulk soil only in summer. Extracellular enzymatic activity relating to nitrogen cycling was higher in the rhizosphere than in the bulk soil across seasons. Nitrogen uptake by the tree was likely lower in winter and spring, leading to labile nitrogen accumulation in the rhizosphere during these periods. On an annual basis, however, the impact of fine roots on apparent inorganic nitrogen dynamics was minor. These results suggest that the canopy tree, Q. crispula, accelerates soil nitrogen cycling through root exudation and rhizosphere effects, regardless of season, while the acceleration of the cycle and the utilization of available nitrogen are well-balanced annually, thereby avoiding unnecessary carbon investment. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山大学教育推進機構 Acta Medica Okayama 1881-5952 3 2026 「知の探研」× 多文化共修 ―オンライン授業再構築の試み― 145 154 EN Yumiko YAMAMOTO Faculty of General and Global Studies (GDP), Okayama University Kha Manh NGUYEN Discovery Program for Global Learners, Okayama University 10.18926/70118 岡山大学では2025年4月入学生から新カリキュラムがスタートした。学士課程改革の一環として導入されたのが全学共通・課題探究科目「知の探研」である。本稿では，新入生対象科目である「知の探研」を，海外生を含むグローバル・ディスカバリー・プログラム生向けに英語で “Inquiries of Knowledge” として開講した初年度の取り組みを報告する。とりわけオンデマンド型オンライン授業を, 本学が推進する多文化共修の視点で再構築するにあたり，教材を単に英訳するのではなく, オンライン環境においても協働学習を実現する工夫や，言語的・文化的配慮の統合が不可欠であることを明らかにする。 No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 0003-9861 779 2026 Comparison of bioavailability of quercetin and its structural analogs in mice 110775 EN Nozomi Maeda Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Atsushi Hashimoto Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Ryosei Morita Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Shintaro Munemasa Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoshiyuki Murata Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoshimasa Nakamura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Toshiyuki Nakamura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Flavonoids are thought to provide beneficial effects on health. However, there are still uncertainties regarding their bioavailability. In this study, we investigated the bioavailability of 6 flavonoids, galangin, kaempferol, quercetin, myricetin, fisetin, and luteolin, by oral administration to mice. Analysis of plasma concentrations of free flavonoids after deconjugation by LC-MS/MS revealed that all flavonoids were rapidly absorbed after administration. Among 6 flavonoids, kaempferol and fisetin showed high absorbed amounts in blood plasma. With the LogP value of the two flavonoids as the maximum value, the amount absorbed decreased for both lower and higher LogP values. The results of the tissue distribution of galangin, kaempferol, and quercetin suggested that the order of fastest movement from the stomach to the small intestine was kaempferol > quercetin > galangin. In addition, the amount of kaempferol and quercetin distributed in the liver was greater than that of galangin. These results suggest that the bioavailability of flavonoids varies with the slight structural differences, possibly due to differences in their rapid accessibility to the small intestine that is the primary site of absorption and metabolism within the body. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 1865-1380 19 1 2026 Association of Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature with heat-related illness hospitalizations in Japan: a time-stratified, case-crossover study 11 EN Yuka Yamamura Department of Epidemiology, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences Takashi Hongo Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences Tetsuya Yumoto Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences Fumiya Sasai Department of Epidemiology, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kohei Tokioka Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences Takafumi Obara Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences Tsuyoshi Nojima Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences Jun Kanda Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Nippon Medical School Musashikosugi Hospital Shoji Yokobori Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Nippon Medical School Hiromichi Naito Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences Atsunori Nakao Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences Background Heat-related illnesses are a serious public health concern and are exacerbated by global warming. Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) is widely used as a heat stress indicator, but its clinical impact remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association between hourly variations in WBGT and the incidence of hospitalizations for heat-related illness in Japan using a nationwide database. By incorporating individual-level clinical data and performing stratified analyses, we sought to provide a more granular understanding of how heat exposure affects the risk of heat-related illness requiring hospitalization. Methods We conducted a time-stratified, case-crossover study using data collected from July to September in 2020 and 2021 in the Heatstroke STUDY registry. The inclusion criteria were patients registered in the Heatstroke STUDY registry, specifically hospitalized patients with heat-related illness who were transported to participating hospitals during the study period. Hourly WBGT values were assigned based on the nearest monitoring station to each hospital. Conditional logistic regression and distributed lag models were used to estimate associations between WBGT and the risk of hospitalization. Results A total of 1,653 heat-related illness hospitalizations were analyzed. The mean patient age was 67.9 years; 67.6% were male. Each 1 °C increase in WBGT at onset (hospital arrival) was associated with a significantly increased risk of hospitalization (OR 1.10, 95% CI: 1.05–1.15). The cumulative effect over the prior six hours was also significant (OR 1.56, 95% CI: 1.50–1.62). Compared with WBGT < 25 °C, adjusted ORs were 3.39 (25–27 °C), 8.81 (28–30 °C), and 22.10 (≥ 31 °C). Stratified analyses suggested stronger associations among several subgroups; however, only patients with mental disorders showed statistically significant effect modification, whereas elevated WBGT posed a risk across all groups. Conclusions Higher WBGT levels were associated with an increased risk of heat-related hospitalization. Although the effect appeared greater in some subgroups, only patients with mental disorders demonstrated statistically significant effect modification, suggesting elevated WBGT confers risk broadly. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 0007-1188 2026 Induction of IL-9-producing CD8+ T cells by ascochlorin derivatives EN Natsumi Imano Department of Immunology, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Mikako Nishida Department of Metabolic Immune Regulation, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Miho Tokumasu Department of Immunology, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Weiyang Zhao Department of Immunology, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Nahoko Yamashita Department of Metabolic Immune Regulation, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Heiichiro Udono Department of Metabolic Immune Regulation, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Background and Purpose: Ascochlorin (ASC) is an antiviral antibiotic from the fermented broth of Ascochyta viciae which exerts an inhibitory effect to cancers. Its impact on immune cells has not been examined. In this study, we obtained ASC derivatives with less cytotoxicity and determined whether they affected T cells, indicating possible immune-mediated antitumour effects. Experimental Approach: Newly synthesised ASC derivatives were screened for inhibitory effects on T-cell antigen receptor (TCR)-stimulated proliferative responses using murine CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Two compounds were identified that exhibited >10-fold less toxicity compared with ASC. N184, the less toxic of the two, was analysed for its in vivo antitumour effects, and in vitro effects on CD8+ T-cell proliferation, survival, cytokine production and exhaustion, using microscopy, qPCR and flow cytometry. Key Results: N184 induced limited IL-9 production in CD8+ T cells following TCR stimulation, thereby improving cell survival. It also enhanced cytokine production in the late phase of proliferation and suppressed the induction of exhaustion. N184 suppressed tumour growth in mice in a CD8+ T cell-dependent manner. The effect was partially prevented by an IL-9-neutralising antibody. Conclusion and Implications: N184 induces differentiation of IL-9-producing CD8+ T cells in vitro and elicits antitumour immunity in an IL-9-dependent manner. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

眼科臨床紀要会 Acta Medica Okayama 1882-5176 19 02 2026 斜視の遺伝子研究 113 125 EN Toshihiko Matsuo Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University 共同性斜視は遺伝要因と環境要因からなる多因子疾患で、内斜視と外斜視に大別される。遺伝要因は家族歴、一卵性双生児の表現型一致率から推定され、環境要因には妊娠・分娩時の低酸素状態がある。一方、遺伝要因がある非共同性（麻痺性）斜視として上斜筋腱低形成を呈する特発性上斜筋麻痺がある。遺伝統計学の連鎖解析を使って、内斜視と外斜視の小家系群で4番染色体MGST2を疾患感受性遺伝子候補と同定し、MGST2ノックアウトマウスを作成した。小動物用MRIで解析すると、そのホモ接合体では野生型と比べて眼球形状が有意に横長で体積が大きいことを見出した。次いで遺伝統計学別法の全ゲノム関連解析を内斜視、外斜視、特発性上斜筋麻痺を対象として行った。Infinium Asian Screening Array-24 v1.0でSNPを決めた内斜視253検体、外斜視356検体、上斜筋麻痺102検体を疾患群とした。対照集団としては、バイオバンクジャパン (BBJ) の疾患群とは違うアレイ(OmniExpress)でSNPを決めた182,476検体「BBJ (180K)」、疾患群と同じアレイでSNPを決めたBBJの53409検体「BBJ (ASA)」および長浜コホート3570検体を使った。３対照集団との比較で共通して検出された遺伝子は、上斜筋麻痺群で神経細胞移動に関与するDAB1であった。最も大きい対照集団「BBJ (180K)」との比較では内斜視、外斜視、上斜筋麻痺を含む疾患群全体で眼発生に関与するRARB (retinoic acid receptor β) が検出された。斜視関連遺伝子は眼球形態に関与する可能性がある。特発性上斜筋麻痺は共同性斜視とは独立した疾患と理解されるが、共通の遺伝基盤もあるかもしれない。 No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 2950-3299 33 4 2025 Collagen depletion by pirfenidone enhances antitumor effect of oncolytic adenovirus against peritoneal metastases of gastric cancer 201045 EN Tomohiro Okura Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Satoru Kikuchi Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Hiroshi Tazawa Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yu Mikane Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Nobuhiko Kanaya Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Ema Mitsui Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yuta Une Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kunitoshi Shigeyasu Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Toshiaki Ohara Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Shinji Kuroda Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kazuhiro Noma Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Junko Ohtsuka Laboratory of Fundamental Oncology, National Cancer Center Research Institute Rieko Ohki Laboratory of Fundamental Oncology, National Cancer Center Research Institute Shunsuke Kagawa Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yasuo Urata Oncolys BioPharma, Inc. Toshiyoshi Fujiwara Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a crucial role in collagen accumulation, which develops and promotes peritoneal metastasis (PM) in gastric cancer (GC). In addition, the abundant stromal collagens in the tumor microenvironment function as a physical barrier against penetration of antitumor drugs and oncolytic viruses. This study investigated whether collagen depletion by pirfenidone (PFD), an antifibrotic drug, enhances the antitumor effects of oncolytic adenoviruses. Analysis of the clinical samples revealed a significant association of high expression of collagen 1 and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) with PM development and poor prognosis of advanced GC. Human and murine GC cells enhanced collagen production by fibroblasts, which was suppressed by PFD. Abundant fibroblasts and collagen inhibited the penetration of OBP-702, which reduced the antitumor effects of OBP-702 in the spheroid model. Intraperitoneal co-injection of GC cells and fibroblasts promoted the development of collagen-rich PM and reduced the antitumor effects of OBP-702 in vivo model. PFD suppressed collagen production in PM and improved viral penetration into the tumors, which enhanced the antitumor effects of OBP-702 against PM of GC. Collagen depletion by PFD enhances the penetration of OBP-702 into PM of GC, in turn enhancing the antitumor effects of OBP-702 against PM of GC. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 0031-9317 178 1 2026 Reactive Carbonyl Species Mediate Isothiocyanate Signaling Pathway in Arabidopsis thaliana Guard Cells e70775 EN Sumaiya Farzana Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Md. Moshiul Islam Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Toshiyuki Nakamura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoshimasa Nakamura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Shintaro Munemasa Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Jun'ichi Mano Science Research Center, Yamaguchi University Yoshiyuki Murata Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Our previous results demonstrated that depletion of glutathione (GSH) rather than elevation of levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is highly correlated with the decrease in stomatal aperture induced by isothiocyanates (ITCs), although ROS is considered a key second messenger in stomatal closure, suggesting that another signal component regulates stomatal apertures along with GSH depletion. This study, using Arabidopsis, clarified that reactive carbonyl species (RCS), especially acrolein and 4-hydroxy-(E)-2-nonenal, are determinants of stomatal aperture responses to ITCs. All tested ITCs, allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), sulforaphane (SFN), benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC), and phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC), significantly induced stomatal closure, which was inhibited by the RCS scavengers, carnosine and pyridoxamine. The RCS scavengers suppressed ITC-induced depletion of GSH but not elevation of ROS levels. All tested ITCs (AITC, SFN, BITC, and PEITC) increased levels of RCS and non-RCS aldehydes in the epidermal tissues. However, acrolein, 4-hydroxy-(E)-2-nonenal, crotonaldehyde, and (E)-2-pentenal induced stomatal closure at 10 and 100 μM, whereas propionaldehyde, butyraldehyde, and n-pentanal did not at concentrations up to 100 μM. Acrolein and 4-hydroxy-(E)-2-nonenal more effectively induced stomatal closure and GSH depletion than crotonaldehyde and (E)-2-pentenal did. The contents of RCS were more strongly correlated with GSH levels and stomatal closure than with ROS levels. These results suggest that RCS, especially acrolein and 4-hydroxy-(E)-2-nonenal, acts as key regulators of stomatal closure in guard cells in response to ITCs. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 1422-0067 26 12 2025 Specific Heat-Killed Lactic Acid Bacteria Enhance Mucosal Aminopeptidase N Activity in the Small Intestine of Aged Mice 5742 EN Takeshi Tsuruta Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Mami Wakisaka Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Takumi Watanabe Bio-Lab Co., Ltd. Aoi Nishijima Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Akihito Ikeda Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Mao Teraoka Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Tianyang Wang Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kuiyi Chen Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Naoki Nishino Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Aminopeptidase N (APN), an enzyme expressed in the small intestinal mucosa, is involved in dietary protein digestion. Previous studies have shown that oral administration of fermented milk containing lactic acid bacteria (LAB) enhances mucosal APN activity in young mice. This study aimed to investigate whether LAB strains stimulate mucosal APN activity in aged mice and to evaluate its relevance to age-related changes in body composition. The underlying molecular mechanisms were also explored in vitro. Experiment 1: Aged C57BL/6J mice were fed diets supplemented with heat-killed LAB strains―Enterococcus faecalis OU-23 (EF), Leuconostoc mesenteroides OU-03 (LM), or Lactiplantibacillus plantarum SNK12 (LP). Compared to the aged Control group, the ileal APN activity was significantly higher in the LP group. LP administration also elevated serum Gla-osteocalcin levels and decreased serum CTX-1 levels. Experiment 2: IEC-6 cells were co-cultured with LP that had been treated with RNase, DNase, or lysozyme. APN activity was significantly lower in cells co-cultured with DNase- or lysozyme-treated LP compared to those co-cultured with untreated LP. A specific LAB strain may enhance mucosal APN activity in the aged intestine, potentially contributing to improved bone metabolism. This effect may be mediated by bacterial DNA and peptidoglycan. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Acta Medica Okayama 0027-8424 123 6 2026 A nuclear CobW/WW-domain factor represses the CO2-concentrating mechanism in the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii e2518136123 EN Daisuke Shimamura Graduate School of Biostudies, Division of Integrated Life Science, Kyoto University Junko Yasuda Graduate School of Biostudies, Division of Integrated Life Science, Kyoto University Yosuke Yamahara Graduate School of Biostudies, Division of Integrated Life Science, Kyoto University Hirobumi Nakano Graduate School of Biostudies, Division of Integrated Life Science, Kyoto University Shin-Ichiro Ozawa Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Ryutaro Tokutsu Graduate School of Science, Division of Biological Sciences, Kyoto University Ayumi Yamagami Graduate School of Biostudies, Division of Integrated Life Science, Kyoto University Tomonao Matsushita Graduate School of Science, Division of Biological Sciences, Kyoto University Yuichiro Takahashi Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Science, Okayama University Takeshi Nakano Graduate School of Biostudies, Division of Integrated Life Science, Kyoto University Hideya Fukuzawa Graduate School of Biostudies, Division of Integrated Life Science, Kyoto University Takashi Yamano Graduate School of Biostudies, Division of Integrated Life Science, Kyoto University Microalgae induce a CO2-concentrating mechanism (CCM) to maintain photosynthesis when CO2 is limited. Because this system consumes a substantial portion of photosynthetically generated ATP, its suppression when CO2 levels rise is critical for energy balance, yet the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we identify a nuclear repressor of the CCM in the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. A pull-down screen for interacting partners of the master activator CCM1/CIA5 revealed an uncharacterized protein that tightly associates with CCM1. This protein, CCM1-binding protein 1 (CBP1), combines a CobW/CobW_C GTP-binding metallochaperone module with a WW-domain characteristic of protein–protein interactions. CBP1 colocalizes and interacts with CCM1 in the nucleus regardless of CO2 conditions. Disruption of CBP1 does not affect growth or CCM induction under CO2 limitation but derepresses 27 of 41 CCM1-dependent low-CO2 inducible genes under high-CO2 conditions. These include the periplasmic and intracellular carbonic anhydrases (CAH1 and LCIB) and inorganic carbon transporters/channels (LCIA, LCI1, BST1, and BST3). Consistently, cbp1 mutants accumulate CAH1 and LCIB proteins and exhibit 40% higher inorganic carbon affinity under high-CO2 conditions; this phenotype is rescued by CBP1 complementation or by acetazolamide treatment. Crucially, cbp1 mutants exhibit significant growth delays under high-CO2 conditions, especially when light is limiting, providing direct evidence that CBP1-mediated repression is essential for energy conservation. Thus, CBP1 prevents unnecessary CCM activity when CO2 is abundant, acting upstream of both transporter/channel and carbonic anhydrase modules. Our findings suggest a regulatory mechanism potentially linking zinc-dependent protein chemistry to CCM gene repression, providing insights into energy-efficient CO2 sensing in aquatic photosynthetic organisms. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 2076-2615 16 3 2026 Impact of the July 2018 Heavy Rain Disaster on the Endangered Nagoya Daruma Pond Frog (Pelophylax porosus brevipodus) in Rice Fields of Mabi Town, Kurashiki City, Western Japan: Changes in Population Structure over Five Years 369 EN Ryo Nakajima Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Daisuke Azumi Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Masakazu Tada Okayama Prefectural Public Interest Incorporated Foundation for Environmental Conservation Junya Nakaichi Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Koki R. Katsuhara Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kazuyoshi Nakata Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Rice paddy fields (referred to below as rice fields) are important not only for food production, but also as habitats for various species. The Nagoya Daruma Pond Frog (Pelophylax porosus brevipodus) is an endangered frog species endemic to Japan, mainly living in and around rice field areas. In July 2018, heavy rainfall caused severe flooding in Mabi Town of Okayama Prefecture, western Japan, submerging numerous rice fields and affecting local frog populations, including P. porosus brevipodus. To clarify whether the population structure of P. porosus brevipodus changed following the flood disaster in the rice fields of Mabi Town, we conducted quantitative field surveys in a rice fallow field in mid-October before (2017) and after (2018, 2020–2022, excluding 2019) the flood. The number of frogs declined sharply after the 2018 flood, reaching only a few individuals by 2020, but showed a substantial recovery in 2021 following the resumption of rice cultivation, although numbers decreased again in 2022. This recovery, despite fluctuations, indicates that habitat restoration through rice farming played a key role in enabling the population to rebound. Our findings underscore the importance of maintaining and restoring rice field environments after natural disasters for the survival and long-term recovery of P. porosus brevipodus. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 2211-1247 45 1 2026 Immunopeptidomics combined with full-length transcriptomics uncovers diverse neoantigens 116781 EN Takamasa Ishino Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Okayama University, Graduate School of Medicine Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Tomofumi Watanabe Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Okayama University, Graduate School of Medicine Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Serina Tokita Division of Cancer Immunology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University Youki Ueda Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Okayama University, Graduate School of Medicine Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Katsushige Kawase Division of Cell Therapy, Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute Yuka Takano Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Okayama University, Graduate School of Medicine Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yin Min Thu Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Okayama University, Graduate School of Medicine Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yuta Suzuki Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo Chie Owa Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo Takashi Inozume Department of Dermatology, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine Wenhao Zhou Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Okayama University, Graduate School of Medicine Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Joji Nagasaki Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Okayama University, Graduate School of Medicine Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Vitaly Kochin Department of Immunology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine Toshihide Ueno Division of Cellular Signaling, National Cancer Center Research Institute Shinya Kojima Division of Cellular Signaling, National Cancer Center Research Institute Akiko Honobe-Tabuchi Department of Dermatology, University of Yamanashi Tatsuyoshi Kawamura Department of Dermatology, University of Yamanashi Takehiro Ohnuma Department of Dermatology, Kumamoto Kenhoku Hospital Takamitsu Matsuzawa Department of Dermatology, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine Yu Kawahara Department of Dermatology, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine Kazuo Yamashita KOTAI Biotechnologies, Inc Jason Lin Division of Cell Therapy, Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute Jun Koseki Division of Systems Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine Hiroyoshi Nishikawa Department of Immunology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine Motoo Araki Department of Urology, Okayama University, Graduate School of Medicine Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Naoya Kato Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University Teppei Shimamura Division of Systems Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine Shinichi Morishita Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo Yutaka Suzuki Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo Hiroyuki Mano Division of Cellular Signaling, National Cancer Center Research Institute Toshihiko Torigoe Takayuki Kanaseki Division of Cancer Immunology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University Masahito Kawazu Division of Cell Therapy, Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute Yosuke Togashi Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Okayama University, Graduate School of Medicine Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Neoantigens are crucial for antitumor immunity and immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) efficacy by triggering strong immune responses. However, conventional methods for identifying neoantigens, such as whole-exon sequencing and short-read RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), appear to be insufficient, and the tumor mutational burden cannot sufficiently predict ICI efficacy. In this study, we employed a proteogenomic approach using long-read RNA-seq with Pacific Biosciences Single-Molecule Real-Time Sequencing technology to analyze full-length transcripts in combination with the human leukocyte antigen ligandome. As a result, many neoantigen candidates were identified, which were unregistered in a comprehensive database, including those from non-coding regions. Additionally, we validated the responses of specific T cell receptors (TCRs) to these candidates and identified several pairs of TCRs and neoantigens. These findings highlight the presence of more diverse neoantigens than expected that cannot be identified by conventional methods. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

International Union of Crystallography (IUCr) Acta Medica Okayama 2056-9890 82 2 2026 Crystal structure of tris[4-(3,4-dimethoxythiophen-2-yl)phenyl]amine E82 EN Masafumi Yano Kansai University Yukiyasu Kashiwagi Osaka Research Institute of Industrial Science and Technology Koki Oishi Kansai University Minori Yano Kansai University Koichi Mitsudo Okayama University In the title compound tris[4-(3,4-dimethoxythiophen-2-yl)phenyl]amine (DMOT-TPA), C36H33NO6S3, the central nitrogen atom shows no pyramidalization, with the three para-phenylene rings arranged in a propeller-like geometry. Each thiophene ring is twisted by about 25–29° relative to the adjacent phenylene ring, giving a distorted π-conjugated framework. In the crystal, molecules are linked through multiple C―H⋯π interactions into two-dimensional sheets, which extend into a three-dimensional network. A Cambridge Structural Database survey revealed no prior examples of triphenylamines bearing 3,4-dimethoxythiophen units at the para positions. This unique structure provides new insights into the design of redox-active organic materials. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 0919-8172 2025 Daytime Bladder Control Status in Toddlerhood Is Associated With Subsequent Bedwetting in Preschool Years: A Nationwide Cohort Study of Over 30 000 Japanese Children EN Takatoshi Moriwake Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Naomi Matsumoto Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Yusuke Tominaga Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Kensuke Uraguchi Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Tomoko Kobayashi Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Ichiro Tsuboi Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Kasumi Yoshinaga Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Tomoaki Yamanoi Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Tatsushi Kawada Department of Urology Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Okayama Japan Takuya Sadahira Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Satoshi Katayama Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takehiro Iwata Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Shingo Nishimura Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Kensuke Bekku Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Kohei Edamura Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Soshi Takao Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Motoo Araki Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Objectives: Nocturnal enuresis is common in early childhood. While daytime bladder control typically precedes nighttime continence, the temporal relationship between early daytime bladder control and subsequent bedwetting remains unclear. We investigated whether daytime bladder control status at age 2.5 years―as indicated by diaper use―is associated with bedwetting at age 4.5 years in a Japanese nationwide cohort. Methods: We analyzed data from the Japanese Longitudinal Survey of Newborns in the 21st Century (2010 cohort). Daytime bladder control was assessed at age 2.5 years through caregiver-reported diaper use, and bedwetting frequency at age 4.5 years through parental questionnaires. Modified Poisson regression estimated risk ratios (RRs), adjusting for birth-related factors, socioeconomic status, daycare attendance, and developmental milestones. Results: Among 32 168 children, 26 651 (82.8%) still used diapers at 2.5 years. Bedwetting prevalence at 4.5 years was 42.2%: 34.5% in children who achieved daytime bladder control at 2.5 years versus 43.9% in those still using diapers. After multivariable adjustment, incomplete daytime bladder control at 2.5 years was associated with higher bedwetting risk (adjusted RR 1.25; 95% CI, 1.20–1.31). Multinomial regression revealed dose–response relationships: odds ratios 1.41 (95% CI, 1.30–1.52) for “sometimes” and 1.58 (95% CI, 1.42–1.77) for “often” bedwetting. Conclusions: Daytime bladder control status at 2.5 years was associated with a 25% increased bedwetting risk at 4.5 years. This association likely reflects individual differences in bladder control maturation rather than causal effects. While daytime bladder control may serve as a developmental marker, its validity as an intervention target remains unestablished. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 2077-0383 15 1 2026 Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Self-Reported Oral Health Status Are Associated with Change in Self-Reported Depression Status: A Cohort Study 376 EN Noriko Takeuchi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Division of Dentistry, Medical Development Field, Okayama University Takayuki Maruyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Naoki Toyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Yuzuki Katsube Dental School, Okayama University Takahiro Tabuchi Division of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Background/Objectives: Oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) may influence mental health outcomes, yet longitudinal evidence on its association with depression remains limited. This study aimed to examine whether oral health status and OHRQoL are associated with a change in self-reported depression status among adults in Japan. Methods: We analyzed data from the Japan COVID-19 and Society Internet Survey (JACSIS), conducted in 2022 and 2023. A total of 15,068 participants aged ≥20 years without depression at baseline were included. Depression status was identified by self-reported measures between the two survey waves. Logistic regression models estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for change in self-reported depression status in relation to OHRQoL and oral health status, adjusting for sociodemographic and behavioral factors. Results: During follow-up, 218 participants (1.45%) reported a change in self-reported depression status. Poorer OHRQoL was significantly associated with a change in self-reported depression status (OR: 1.018; 95% CI: 1.001–1.036; p = 0.039). Additional risk factors included younger age (OR: 0.974; 95% CI: 0.964–0.985), participation in hobbies and cultural activities (OR: 2.224; 95% CI: 1.498–3.302), habitual use of sleeping pills or anxiolytics (current use OR: 3.512; 95% CI: 2.267–5.442), increased loneliness (OR: 1.217; 95% CI: 1.140–1.299), lower life satisfaction (OR: 0.900; 95% CI: 0.836–0.969), and poor self-rated health (OR: 2.921; 95% CI: 1.810–4.715). Conclusions: Impaired OHRQoL was associated with a change in self-reported depression status, potentially through psychosocial mechanisms. These findings suggest that oral health and OHRQoL may be relevant factors to consider in integrated oral and mental health approaches in clinical practice. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 2575-6265 6 5 2025 Seaweed Extracts Improve Salinity Tolerance in Cereal Crops―A Meta‐Analysis e70094 EN Md. Nuruzzaman Department of Plant Resources, College of Industrial Sciences, Kongju National University Md. Tahjib‐Ul‐Arif Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bangladesh Agricultural University Md. Abdul Hannan Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bangladesh Agricultural University Yoshiyuki Murata Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University M. Afzal Hossain Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bangladesh Agricultural University Seaweeds are considered an essential component of the blue economy. Because seaweed extracts are rich in bioactive compounds that enhance plant stress resilience, exploiting this resource could offer a sustainable solution for crop production. Salinity is a major abiotic challenge that significantly impacts crop yield and food security. Through meta-analysis, we explored whether the exogenous application of seaweed extracts improves the salt tolerance of cereal crops. All the studies chosen for this study utilized aqueous seaweed extracts as foliar sprays. A multi-level meta-analysis with a mixed effects model was performed to determine the effect size. This meta-analysis demonstrated that applying aqueous seaweed extracts enhanced the shoot and root biomass under normal and salinity stress conditions, suggesting that seaweed extract can help improve crop stress tolerance. The seaweeds studied belonged to three classes: Phaeophyceae, Rhodophyta, and Chlorophyta, with extracts from Chlorophyta and Phaeophyceae significantly enhancing biomass production under salinity conditions. Applying aqueous seaweed extracts effectively improved salinity tolerance at both 34.2–100 mM and 101–400 mM NaCl equivalent salinity stress. Moreover, exogenous foliar application of ≤ 25% aqueous seaweed extracts was most effective for improving salinity tolerance in cereals. The impact of seaweed extracts on cereal crop yields has not been extensively reported; therefore, further studies should focus on this aspect. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山医学会 Acta Medica Okayama 0030-1558 137 3 2025 備前市における新型コロナウイルス感染症の抗体検査に関する研究の成果報告 118 125 EN Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University Ayako Sasaki Kurashiki City Public Health Center Naomi Matsumoto Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University Tomoka Kadowaki Center for Public Health Action in Applied Epidemiology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases Toshiharu Mitsuhashi Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Soshi Takao Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University 　We conducted two prospective cohort studies (June 2022–March 2023 and Nov 2023–Jan 2024) of 1,899 and 445 residents and other individuals who are affiliated with institutions in the city of Bizen in Japan's Okayama prefecture (population 32,320 as of 2020). We measured the subjects' titers of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, evaluated changes in their antibody titers, and assessed the associations of the titers with the subjects' vaccination status, infection, and COVID-19 status/severity. This report summarizes the two studies' findings. These prospective studies based on a wide age range in a general population provide information that can be used to determine the appropriate timing of vaccination during a pandemic. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Japanese Society of Breeding Acta Medica Okayama 1344-7610 75 3 2025 Polyphyletic domestication and inter-lineage hybridization magnified genetic diversity of cultivated melon, Cucumis melo L. 168 178 EN Katsunori Tanaka Faculty of Agriculture and Life Science, Hirosaki University Gentaro Shigita Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Tran Phuong Dung Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Phan Thi Phuong Nhi University of Agriculture and Forestry, Hue University Mami Takahashi Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yuki Monden Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Hidetaka Nishida Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Ryuji Ishikawa Faculty of Agriculture and Life Science, Hirosaki University Kenji Kato Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Melon accessions with diverse geographical origins were classified into large and small seed-types by length of seed at the boundary of 9 mm, and into five populations based on polymorphisms in the nuclear genome. They were further divided into three maternal lineages, Ia, Ib, and Ic, by polymorphisms in the chloroplast genome. By combining these three classifications, the Europe/US subsp. melo and the East Asian subsp. agrestis were characterized as [large seed, Ib, PopA1 or A2] and [small seed, Ia, PopB1 or B2], respectively, indicating nearly perfect divergence. In South Asia, in addition to the Europe/US and East Asian types, recombinant types between the two types were detected and accounted for 34.8% of South Asian melon. The finding of such an intermixed structure of genetic variation supported the Indian origin of Ia and Ib types. As to Momordica popular in South Asia, seed length was intermediate between the large and small seed-types, and chloroplast type was a mixture of Ia and Ib, suggesting its origin from the recombinant type. In Africa, three lineages of melon were distributed allopatrically and showed distinct divergence. Subsp. agrestis of the Ic type proved to be endemic to Africa, indicating its African origin. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

International Institute of Anticancer Research Acta Medica Okayama 0250-7005 46 1 2025 P53-Armed Oncolytic Virotherapy Promotes the Efficacy of PD1 Blockade in Murine Osteosarcoma Tumors 69 84 EN MIHO KURE Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences HIROSHI TAZAWA Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences KOJI DEMIYA Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences HIROYA KONDO Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences YUSUKE MOCHIZUKI Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences TADASHI KOMATSUBARA Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences AKI YOSHIDA Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences KOJI UOTANI Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences JOE HASEI Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences TOMOHIRO FUJIWARA Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences TOSHIYUKI KUNISADA Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences YASUO URATA Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences SHUNSUKE KAGAWA Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences TOSHIFUMI OZAKI Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences TOSHIYOSHI FUJIWARA Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Background/Aim: Osteosarcoma (OS) is refractory to immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting programmed cell death 1 (PD1)/PD ligand 1 (PD-L1) due to poor immune response. We previously developed telomerase-specific, replication-competent oncolytic adenoviruses non-armed OBP-301 and P53-armed OBP-702 that exert antitumor efficacy against human OS cells. Recently, we demonstrated that P53-armed OBP-702 induces more profound immunogenic cell death and antitumor immune response against human and murine OS cells than does non-armed OBP-301. In the present study, we assessed the combined efficacy of PD1 blockade and P53-armed OBP-702 against murine OS cells. Materials and Methods: Three murine OS cell lines (K7M2, NHOS, NHOS-LM4) were used to assess the cytopathic effect of non-armed OBP-301 and P53-armed OBP-702 by XTT assay. Virus-induced immunogenic cell death was assessed by analyzing the levels of extracellular adenosine triphosphate and high-mobility group box protein B1. The expression of PD-L1 and PD-L2 was analyzed by flow cytometry. The malignant potential of NHOS-LM4 cells was analyzed by a migration and invasion assay. An orthotopic NHOS-LM4 tumor model was used to evaluate the antitumor efficacy of combination therapy with P53-armed OBP-702 and anti-PD1. Results: P53-armed OBP-702 exhibited antitumor potential for the induction of immunogenic cell death, apoptosis, autophagy, and PD-L1/2 upregulation in K7M2 and NHOS cells. NHOS-LM4 cells showed increased migratory and invasive ability compared to NHOS cells. P53-armed OBP-702 significantly suppressed the malignant potential of NHOS-LM4 cells. Combination dosing showed that P53-armed OBP-702 significantly promoted the antitumor effect of PD1 blockade against NHOS-LM4 tumors. Conclusion: Our results suggest that P53-armed OBP-702 is a promising agent for improving the antitumor effect of PD1 blockade in treating invasive OS. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 0718-9508 2025 Suppression of Na+ Uptake Via Apoplastic Flow by Chitosan in Rice EN Maoxiang Zhao Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Md. Asadulla Al Galib Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Toshiyuki Nakamura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoshimasa Nakamura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoshihiko Hirai Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Yoshitaka Nakashima Shintaro Munemasa Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Izumi C. Mori Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Yoshiyuki Murata Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Purpose: Chitosan enhances tolerance to salinity in rice. Apoplastic flow plays a crucial role in the accumulation of sodium (Na+) in rice under salinity. This study investigated the effects of exogenous chitosan on apoplastic flow and Na+ uptake in NaCl-treated rice seedlings. Methods: We employed an apoplastic tracer, trisodium salt of 8-hydroxy-1,3,6-pyrenetrisulphonic acid (PTS), in order to evaluate apoplastic flow in rice (Oryza sativa L., cv. Nipponbare) seedlings that were hydroponically grown in the solution containing NaCl (0 and 25 mM), and chitosan (0 mg L－ 1, 10 mg L－ 1, and 50 mg L－ 1). Results: Application of 25 mM NaCl significantly increased PTS uptake and Na+ content in shoots but did not affect K+ content, resulting in a lower K+/Na+ ratio although 25 mM NaCl did not affect the seedling growth. The application of chitosan suppressed Na+-enhanced PTS uptake and Na+ accumulation in shoots without affecting the K+ content, which led to a higher K+/Na+ ratio. Moreover, chitosan did not affect the reducing sugar content or electrical conductivity in the solution containing NaCl. Conclusions: These results suggest that application of chitosan suppressed Na+-enhanced apoplastic flow to reduce Na+ uptake in rice seedlings. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 2405-8440 11 11 2025 Suppression of defect in plated film on AMed metal products by electron beam polishing e43440 EN Togo Shinonaga Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yuki Matsuda Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Akira Okada Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Additively manufactured (AMed) metal products with high shape accuracy can be produced by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). However, the AMed metal products have large surface roughness due to the arrangement of bead shape. Surface irregularities such as spatter and small cavity are also generated on the surface. Furthermore, elemental composition of AMed metal products may be changed from that of original metal powder due to oxidation of surface. On the other hand, electroless plating has been applied to improvement of surface functions. However, defect is often generated in the plated film due to surface irregularities and oxidation of base material. Therefore, surface smoothing methods are required for suppression of defect in plated film. In this study, surface smoothing and surface repairing of AMed aluminum (Al) alloy were performed by electron beam (EB) polishing with large-area EB. After the EB polishing, electroless plating was conducted on the AMed Al alloy, and suppression of defect in plated film was proposed. Experimental results show that surface smoothing, surface repairing and removal of oxidization layer of AMed Al alloy can be done simultaneously by the EB polishing. Furthermore, the plated film without defect can be successfully formed on the EB polished Al alloy. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

eLife Sciences Publications, Ltd Acta Medica Okayama 2050-084X 13 2025 Redistribution of fragmented mitochondria ensures symmetric organelle partitioning and faithful chromosome segregation in mitotic mouse zygotes RP99936 EN Haruna Gekko Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Environment and Life Science, Okayama University Ruri Nomura Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Environment and Life Science, Okayama University Daiki Kuzuhara Reproductive Centre, Mio Fertility Clinic Masato Kaneyasu Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Environment and Life Science, Okayama University Genpei Koseki Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Environment and Life Science, Okayama University Deepak Adhikari Development and Stem Cell Program and Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University Yasuyuki Mio Reproductive Centre, Mio Fertility Clinic John Carroll Development and Stem Cell Program and Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University Tomohiro Kono Department of Bioscience, Tokyo University of Agriculture Hiroaki Funahashi Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Environment and Life Science, Okayama University Takuya Wakai Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Environment and Life Science, Okayama University In cleavage-stage embryos, preexisting organelles partition evenly into daughter blastomeres without signiﬁcant cell growth after symmetric cell division. The presence of mitochondrial DNA within mitochondria and its restricted replication during preimplantation development makes their inheritance particularly important. While chromosomes are precisely segregated by the mitotic spindle, the mechanisms controlling mitochondrial partitioning remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigate the mechanism by which Dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) controls the mitochondrial redistribution and partitioning during embryonic cleavage. Depletion of Drp1 in mouse zygotes causes marked mitochondrial aggregation, and the majority of embryos arrest at the 2 cell stage. Clumped mitochondria are located in the center of mitotic Drp1-depleted zygotes with less uniform distribution, thereby preventing their symmetric partitioning. Asymmetric mitochondrial inheritance is accompanied by functionally inequivalent blastomeres with biased ATP and endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ levels. We also find that marked mitochondrial centration in Drp1-depleted zygotes prevents the assembly of parental chromosomes, resulting in chromosome segregation defects and binucleation. Thus, mitochondrial fragmentation mediated by Drp1 ensures proper organelle positioning and partitioning into functional daughters during the first embryonic cleavage. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

American Society for Clinical Investigation Acta Medica Okayama 2379-3708 10 24 2025 Enhancement of drug delivery through fibroblast activation protein–targeted near-infrared photoimmunotherapy e195776 EN Seitaro Nishimura Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Kazuhiro Noma Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Tasuku Matsumoto Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Yasushige Takeda Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Tatsuya Takahashi Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Hijiri Matsumoto Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Kento Kawasaki Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Hotaka Kawai Department of Oral Pathology and Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Tomoyoshi Kunitomo Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Masaaki Akai Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Teruki Kobayashi Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Noriyuki Nishiwaki Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Hajime Kashima Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Takuya Kato Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Satoru Kikuchi Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Shunsuke Tanabe Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Toshiaki Ohara Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Hiroshi Tazawa Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Yasuhiro Shirakawa Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science Peter L. Choyke Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH Hisataka Kobayashi Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH Toshiyoshi Fujiwara Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science The tumor microenvironment plays a key role in cancer progression and therapy resistance, with cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) contributing to desmoplasia, extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, and elevated interstitial fluid pressure, all of which hinder drug delivery. We investigated fibroblast activation protein–targeted (FAP-targeted) near-infrared photoimmunotherapy (NIR-PIT) as a strategy to improve drug penetration in CAF-rich tumors. In clinical esophageal cancer samples, FAP expression strongly correlated with increased collagen I, hyaluronic acid, and microvascular collapse. CAF-rich 3D spheroids demonstrated elevated ECM deposition and significantly impaired drug uptake compared with CAF-poor models. FAP-targeted NIR-PIT selectively reduced CAFs, reduced ECM components, and restored drug permeability. In vivo, FAP-targeted NIR-PIT enhanced the accumulation of panitumumab and Abraxane in CAF-rich tumors and improved antitumor efficacy when combined with chemotherapy. These findings highlight FAP-targeted NIR-PIT as a promising therapeutic approach to remodel the tumor stroma and overcome drug resistance in desmoplastic solid tumors. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Oxford University Press (OUP) Acta Medica Okayama 1347-6947 89 6 2025 PNGase activity and free N-glycans in phloem fluid prepared from Nerium oleander (oleander tree) 872 875 EN Fuki Otaguro Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yoshinobu Kimura Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Megumi Maeda Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Free N-glycans (FNGs) occur ubiquitously in growing plants. Recently, it was reported that these FNGs interact with auxin. In this study, we investigated whether PNGase activity responsible for producing the FNGs occurs in the extracellular fluid, where auxin is present during its polar transfer. Here, we report the occurrences of PNGase activity and FNGs in the phloem fluid. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 0969-806X 237 2025 Impact of different X-ray tube positions on actual dose measurements during CT examinations -An effect of patient physique- 113001 EN Hiroaki Hayashi College of Transdisciplinary Sciences for Innovation, Kanazawa University Tatsuya Maeda Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University Kazuki Takegami Department of Radiological Technology, Yamaguchi University Hospital Sota Goto Faculty of Health Sciences, Kobe Tokiwa University Takashi Asahara Department of Radiological Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Okayama University Natsumi Kimoto Department of Radiological Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Junshin Gakuen University Rina Nishigami Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University Daiki Kobayashi Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University Yuki Kanazawa Faculty of Life Science, Kumamoto University Kazuta Yamashita Department of Orthopedics, School of Medicine, Tokushima University Takeshi Konishi MEDITEC JAPAN Co., Ltd. Motochika Maki MEDITEC JAPAN Co., Ltd. Dose management of patients is very important during X-ray Computed Tomography (CT) examinations, but because the patient's surface dose is inhomogeneous, it is difficult to measure the most probable value using a small passive-type dosimeter, lent to the patient. To solve this problem, our research group developed a precise dose analysis procedure in which a systematic uncertainty related to the X-ray incident direction (θin) is reduced. θin information was analyzed from CT images. However, the applicability of our procedure to actual patients with various physiques has not been examined. This study aims to propose a dose analysis procedure that can be applied to patients with various physiques, and to show its impact on dose measurement. Clinical data of 198 patients with Body Mass Index (BMI) values between 15 and 40 kg/m2 (mean value: 23.1 ± 3.8 kg/m2) who underwent chest CT scans were analyzed after dividing them into three groups based on BMI values. The absorbed dose was measured with a small-type Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) dosimeter. To derive correction factors related to θin, the dependence of the actually-measured dose values of various patients on θin was analyzed. The correction coefficients were determined independently for the three groups classified by BMI values. By correcting the effect of θin, the systematic uncertainty element could be reduced, resulting in 30 % reduction of the uncertainty. Furthermore, it was found that our analysis procedure makes it possible to visualize outliers. In comparison with the expected dose values based on Computed Tomography Dose Index (CTDI) values, most of the data fell within the range of ±1.34 mGy (=1σ). However, 7 % of the data showed large deviations larger than 2σ. In conclusion, our research group has developed a procedure for measuring patient surface doses that can be applied to patients having various physiques, in which the effects of X-ray incident direction were accurately corrected. The procedure could be one solution to the problems with actual dose measurements during CT examinations, and will be useful for dose management based on the small-type dosimeter. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Japanese Society for Horticultural Science Acta Medica Okayama 2189-0102 94 3 2025 Effect of Storage Temperature and a Sugar-ester Edible Coating on Postharvest Quality and Storage Life of ‘Fuyu’ Persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) 401 407 EN Maqsood Muqadas Graduate School of Environmental, Life Science, Natural Science and Technology Okayama University Oscar W. Mitalo Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba Kyohei Ohashi Graduate School of Environmental, Life Science, Natural Science and Technology Okayama University Takumi Otsuki Graduate School of Environmental, Life Science, Natural Science and Technology Okayama University Chikara Yano Graduate School of Environmental, Life Science, Natural Science and Technology Okayama University Ziaurrahman Hejazi Graduate School of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki Natsuki Hira Shiga R&D Center, Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation Koichiro Ushijima Graduate School of Environmental, Life Science, Natural Science and Technology Okayama University Yasutaka Kubo Graduate School of Environmental, Life Science, Natural Science and Technology Okayama University In ‘Fuyu’ persimmons (Diospyros kaki Thunb.), crunchiness is a preferred postharvest attribute among both distributors and consumers. The present study first examined softening characteristics during storage at 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25°C. Fruit stored at 0°C remained firm for 84 d, while that stored at 5°C had a 100% softening rate within 35 d. At 10 and 15°C, over 70% of fruit softened within 49 d and 63 d, respectively. The softening rate was relatively slower at 20 and 25°C, with only 27% softened fruit after 56 d at 25°C. The potential of a newly developed sugar-ester (SE) edible coating to delay fruit softening and maintain postharvest quality was then assessed during storage at 0 and 25°C. Uncoated fruit stored at 0°C for 56 d developed chilling injury (CI) symptoms (rapid fruit softening and peel browning) within 2 d of rewarming at 20°C. These CI symptoms were notably mitigated in SE-coated fruit. At 25°C, SE coating also delayed fruit softening and peel color change in addition to reducing fruit shrinkage. In conclusion, in ‘Fuyu’ persimmons ambient temperature (20–25°C) storage in combination with an edible SE coating is recommended for the high demand Christmas and new year seasons and 0°C storage with an edible SE coating is suitable for longer storage and distribution. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 2772-4271 21 2026 Assessing water resources availability and crop performance under climate change in Kenya's Bura irrigation scheme using SWAT and AquaCrop 100624 EN Daniel Mwendwa Wambua Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Hiroaki Somura Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Toshitsugu Moroizumi Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Morihiro Maeda Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University The current study focused on Tana River Basin in Kenya, home to the Bura irrigation scheme (BIS). The BIS faces water supply shortages during critical months of crop development. This study aimed to evaluate the available water resources and crop performance using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and AquaCrop, respectively, under historical and future shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs) at the BIS. SWAT estimated the total available flows (TAF) at the BIS intake, whereas AquaCrop estimated crop water requirements (CWR), yields, and water productivity (Wpet) of rice and maize at various carbon (IV) oxide (CO2) levels. The study suggested that the TAF will remain relatively low during the early critical crop development stages in the main cropping season, August-October. Maize yields remained steady over the two cropping seasons under both constant and elevated CO2 levels in the historical and future periods, as opposed to those of rice. Elevated CO2 levels led to diminishing CWR. Moreover, rice showed a stronger response to elevated CO2 than maize. As a result, maize which is less affected by variations in CO2 and temperatures and has less crop water requirements will be better suited than rice for cultivation in the BIS under climate change. To ensure a sustainable water supply in the scheme, the government should increase rainwater harvesting during periods of high TAF. Moreover, there should be a focus on introducing crops that are tolerant to water and temperature stresses and that can reap the most from the elevated CO2 levels. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 0960-7412 120 1 2024 OsHAK4 functions in retrieving sodium from the phloem at the reproductive stage of rice 76 90 EN Jing Che Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Naoki Yamaji Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Shao Fei Wang Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences Yue Xia Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences Shun Ying Yang Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences Yan Hua Su Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences Ren Fang Shen Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences Jian Feng Ma Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Soil salinity significantly limits rice productivity, but it is poorly understood how excess sodium (Na+) is delivered to the grains at the reproductive stage. Here, we functionally characterized OsHAK4, a member of the clade IV HAK/KUP/KT transporter subfamily in rice. OsHAK4 was localized to the plasma membrane and exhibited influx transport activity for Na+, but not for K+. Analysis of organ- and growth stage-dependent expression patterns showed that very low expression levels of OsHAK4 were detected at the vegetative growth stage, but its high expression in uppermost node I, peduncle, and rachis was found at the reproductive stage. Immunostaining indicated OsHAK4 localization in the phloem region of node I, peduncle, and rachis. Knockout of OsHAK4 did not affect the growth and Na+ accumulation at the vegetative stage. However, at the reproductive stage, the hak4 mutants accumulated higher Na+ in the peduncle, rachis, husk, and brown rice compared to the wild-type rice. Element imaging revealed higher Na+ accumulation at the phloem region of the peduncle in the mutants. These results indicate that OsHAK4 plays a crucial role in retrieving Na+ from the phloem in the upper nodes, peduncle, and rachis, thereby preventing Na+ distribution to the grains at the reproductive stage of rice. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 2399-3642 8 1 2025 Single-cell and spatial transcriptomic characterization of pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma 1773 EN Atsushi Matsuoka Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kazuhiko Shien Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Shuta Tomida Masayoshi Ohki Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kazuya Hisamatsu Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Ryota Fujiwara Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kosei Ishimura Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Ryunosuke Fujii Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Tomoaki Higashihara Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Naohiro Hayashi Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kazuhiro Okada Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Ryo Yoshichika Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Fumiaki Mukohara Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Mao Yoshikawa Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yuma Fukumoto Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Ken Suzawa Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yasuaki Tomioka Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Shin Tanaka Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kentaroh Miyoshi Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Mikio Okazaki Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Seiichiro Sugimoto Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yusuke Otani Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Atsushi Tanaka Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Hirofumi Inoue Center for Comprehensive Genomic Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Yosuke Togashi Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Hidetaka Yamamoto Department of Pathology and Oncology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Daisuke Ennishi Center for Comprehensive Genomic Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Shinichi Toyooka Department of General Thoracic Surgery and Breast and Endocrinological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma (PPC) is a rare subtype of lung cancer that comprises both epithelial and sarcomatoid components. The molecular basis of PPC, including the cellular dynamics of its components, remains largely unknown. To elucidate potential therapeutic targets for PPC, we perform a multi-omics analysis incorporating digital spatial profiling and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). PPC exhibits diverse driver gene alterations, including MET exon 14 skipping mutation (METex14) and ALK fusion. In spatial transcriptomics, MET gene and protein are overexpressed exclusively within the epithelial component and not in the sarcomatoid component, even in patients harboring METex14. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related transcriptional changes, along with extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling between the epithelial and sarcomatoid components, are observed. scRNA-seq identifies cell populations within the epithelial component that contribute to the malignant transformation and differentiation of the sarcomatoid component. They are characterized by an intermediate EMT state with ECM remodeling signature, suggesting their potential as novel therapeutic targets for PPC. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 0361-5995 89 3 2025 Autoclaved lightweight aerated concrete suppressed N2O and CO2 emissions from paddy soil e70091 EN Nagoda R. R. W. S. Rathnayake Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna Morihiro Maeda Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Dewpura A. L. Leelamanie Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna Atsushi Yatagai Clion Co. Ltd Autoclaved lightweight aerated concrete (AAC), a construction waste that is utilized as a soil amendment, can influence terrestrial carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Still, no evidence exists regarding its impact on the emission of nitrous oxide (N2O), which has a higher global warming potential. This study examined effects of AAC on CO2 and N2O emissions from paddy soil under compacted and non-compacted conditions, under 60% and 100% water-holding capacity (WHC). Samples were incubated in glass vials (25°C) for 21 days. Emissions of CO2 and N2O were measured on days 0, 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21 using gas chromatography. The results revealed that AAC significantly (p < 0.05) lowered N2O emission rate during the whole period of incubation, while it suppressed CO2 emission rate only at the early stages (∼7 days) of incubation. In compacted soil, the emissions of CO2 were significantly lower, while N2O was significantly higher than that in non-compacted soil, showing the influence of soil physical conditions. The emissions of CO2 and N2O were significantly lower at 100% WHC than those at 60% WHC. AAC suppressed both CO2 and N2O emissions under both compaction and WHC levels. The results confirm that AAC supports suppressing terrestrial emission of both CO2 and N2O, indicating that AAC has a potential as a sustainable soil amendment that enhances the climate change resilience. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Biophysical Society of Japan Acta Medica Okayama 2189-4779 22 3 2025 Origin of the unique topology of the triangular water cluster in Rubrobacter xylanophilus rhodopsin e220018 EN Tomoyasu Noji Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo Masaki Tsujimura Department of Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, The University of Tokyo Keisuke Saito Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo Keiichi Kojima Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Yuki Sudo Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Hiroshi Ishikita Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo The crystal structure of Rubrobacter xylanophilus rhodopsin (RxR) reveals a triangular cluster of three water molecules (W413, W415, and W419) at the extracellular proton-release site, near Glu187 and Glu197. Using a quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical approach, we identified the structural nature of this unique water cluster. The triangular shape is best reproduced when all three water molecules are neutral H2O with protonated Glu187 and deprotonated Glu197. Attempts to place H3O+ at any of these water molecules result in spontaneous proton transfer to one of the acidic residues and significant distortion from the crystal structure. The plane defined by the triangular water cluster extends into the guanidinium plane of Arg71, with both aligned along the W413...W419 axis. This extended plane lies nearly perpendicular to a five-membered, ring-like H-bond network involving two carboxyl oxygen atoms from Glu187 and one from Glu197. The resulting bipartite planar architecture, defined by the water triangle, Arg71, and the Glu187/Glu197 network may reflect the exceptional thermal stability in RxR. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 0883-2927 187 2025 Nitrogen distribution and nitrogen isotope fractionation in synthetic 2:1 phyllosilicates under hydrothermal conditions at 200 °C and saturated vapor pressure 106403 EN Jaeguk Jo Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Toshiro Yamanaka Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Youko Miyoshi Research Institute for Geo-Resources and Environment, Geological Survey of Japan, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) Masaya Suzuki Research Institute for Geo-Resources and Environment, Geological Survey of Japan, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) Yoshihiro Kuwahara Department of Environmental Changes, Faculty of Social and Cultural Studies, Kyushu University Isao Kadota Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Hitoshi Chiba Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Bum Han Lee Critical Minerals Research Center, Korea Institute of Geoscience & Mineral Resources (KIGAM) This study investigates nitrogen distribution and isotope fractionation within synthetic 2:1 phyllosilicates, simulating submarine hydrothermal environments at 200 °C and saturated vapor pressure. XRD and EDS results revealed the potential coexistence of multiple cations in the interlayer of synthetic 2:1 phyllosilicate, concurrently suggesting cation substitution in the tetrahedral and/or octahedral sheets. Meanwhile, the iron-enriched 25-5 sample exhibited restricted interlayer expansibility. NH4+ absorptions were identified in the NH4-stretching (3200–2800 cm－1) and NH4-bending (1450–1400 cm－1) regions, with wavenumber shifts indicating the influence of interlayer water removal. At pH 10.56, over 95% of nitrogen was released into the gas phase, while at pH 8.88, nitrogen proportions in the liquid and gas phases were comparable (average 48–49%). Experiments with iron at pH ∼8.80 showed that the nitrogen proportion in the gas phase (average 28%) was more than twofold lower than that in the liquid phase (average 68%). Equilibrium isotope fractionation factors indicated discernible preference for heavier nitrogen isotopes in the solid phase (αsolid-liquid = 1.009–1.021 and αsolid-gas = 1.011–1.027). The αliquid-gas range for sample 25–2 was 1.001–1.008, while that for the iron-enriched composite 25–5 was 0.997–1.010. Our experimental studies have confirmed that, in the absence of exchange interactions with external substances possessing different nitrogen isotope ratios, nitrogen isotope fractionation between ammonium and ammonia, controlled by variations in temperature and pH during mineralization, plays a crucial role in the variation of nitrogen isotope ratios. Additionally, we confirmed that metal-amines influence nitrogen isotope fractionation by modulating ammonia gas emission. These findings enhance our understanding of nitrogen cycling across the gas, liquid, and solid phases in submarine hydrothermal systems. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 1433-7851 64 13 2025 Conduction Band and Defect Engineering for the Prominent Visible‐Light Responsive Photocatalysts e202419624 EN Akira Yamakata Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kosaku Kato Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Takafumi Ogawa Nanostructures Research Laboratory, Japan Fine Ceramics Center Kanta Ogawa Department of Energy and Hydrocarbon Chemistry Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University Makoto Ogawa Department of Energy and Hydrocarbon Chemistry Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University Daichi Kato Department of Energy and Hydrocarbon Chemistry Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University Chengchao Zhong Department of Energy and Hydrocarbon Chemistry Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University Akihide Kuwabara Nanostructures Research Laboratory, Japan Fine Ceramics Center Ryu Abe Department of Energy and Hydrocarbon Chemistry Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University Hiroshi Kageyama Department of Energy and Hydrocarbon Chemistry Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University Controlling trap depth is crucial to improve photocatalytic activity, but designing such crystal structures has been challenging. In this study, we discovered that in 2D materials like BiOCl and Bi4NbO8Cl, composed of interleaved [Bi2O2]2+ and Cl- slabs, the trap depth can be controlled by manipulating the slab stacking structure. In BiOCl, oxygen vacancies (VO) create deep electron traps, while chlorine vacancies (VCl) produce shallow traps. The depth is determined by the coordination around anion vacancies: VO forms strong σ bonds with Bi-6p dangling bonds below the conduction band minimum (CBM), while those around Cl are parallel, forming weak π-bonding. The strong re-hybridization makes the trap depth deeper. In Bi4NbO8Cl, VCl also creates shallow traps, but VO does not produce deep traps although Bi-6p orbitals are also forming strong σ bonding. This difference is attributed to the difference of the energy level of CBM. In both cases, the CBM consists of Bi-6p orbitals extending into the Cl layers. However, these orbitals are isolated in BiOCl, but those in Bi4NbO8Cl are bonded with each other between neighboring [Bi2O2]2+ layers. This unique bonding-based CBM prevents the formation of deep electron traps, and significantly enhances H2 evolution activity by prolonging the lifetime of highly reactive free electrons. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) Acta Medica Okayama 1463-9262 27 18 2025 Deoxygenative dual CO2 conversions: methylenation and switchable N-formylation/N-methylation of tryptamines 5359 5365 EN Kazuto Takaishi Division of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Hajime Morishita Division of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kosuke Iwaki Division of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Tadashi Ema Division of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University The unprecedented one-pot synthesis of N-formyl/N-methyltryptolines from tryptamines was achieved via phenylsilane-assisted deoxygenative dual CO2 conversions. Two CO2 molecules acted as different synthons and were converted into methylene and N-formyl/N-methyl groups. The CO2 reduction step was catalyzed by a pentanuclear zinc complex at atmospheric pressure under solvent-free conditions. The N-formyl/N-methyl products could be switched by changing the amount of phenylsilane, and the amounts of in situ generated bis(silyl)acetals and silyl formates were key to the chemoselectivity. Methylenation, N-formylation, and N-methylation proceeded via the Pictet–Spengler reaction, amine–acid condensation, and the Eschweiler–Clarke reaction, respectively. The CO2 reduction with phenylsilane could also be applied to the one-pot three-step synthesis of spiro[oxindole-pyrrolidine]s. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 2504-3129 6 4 2025 Drip Fertigation in Greenhouse Eggplant Cultivation: Reducing N2O Emissions and Nitrate Leaching 116 EN Wataru Shiraishi Kochi Prefectural Agricultural Research Center Shion Nishimura Department of Bioresource Production Science, United Graduate School of Agriculture, Ehime University Morihiro Maeda Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Hideto Ueno Department of Bioresource Production Science, United Graduate School of Agriculture, Ehime University Drip fertigation (DF) is a sustainable agricultural management technique that optimizes water and nutrient usage, enhances crop productivity, and reduces environmental impact. Herein, we compared the effects of DF and conventional fertilization (CF) with a basal fertilizer on yield, soil inorganic nitrogen dynamics, N2O emissions, and nitrogen leaching during facility-grown eggplant cultivation. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse from September 2023 to May 2024, with treatments arranged in three rows and three replicates. Soil, gas, and water samples were collected and analyzed throughout the growing season. The results revealed that the DF treatment produced yields comparable to those obtained with the CF treatment while significantly reducing nitrogen and phosphorus inputs. DF effectively prevented excessive nitrogen accumulation in the soil and reduced nitrogen loss through leaching and gas emissions. N2O emissions were significantly lower by more than 60% under DF than under CF. Precise nutrient management in DF suppressed nitrification and denitrification processes, mitigating N2O emissions. DF also significantly reduced nitrogen leaching by more than 70% compared with that in CF. These findings demonstrate that DF effectively enhances agricultural sustainability by improving nutrient use efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and minimizing nitrogen leaching during the cultivation of facility-grown eggplant. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 1479-5876 23 1 2025 Tumor marker–guided precision BNCT for CA19-9–positive cancers: a new paradigm in molecularly targeted chemoradiation therapy 1387 EN Noriyuki Kanehira Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Fuminori Teraishi Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Tomoyuki Tajima Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Tatsunori Osone Department of Regenerative Science, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kazuyoshi Gotoh Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Okayama University Graduate School of Health Sciences Takuya Fujimoto Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yoshinori Sakurai Institute for Integrated Radiation and Nuclear Science, Kyoto University Natsuko Kondo Institute for Integrated Radiation and Nuclear Science, Kyoto University Narikazu Nagahisa Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kaoru Kamei Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Taiga Fujita Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Akira Morihara Graduate School of Environmental, Life Science, Okayama University Yutaka Takaguchi Faculty of Sustainable Design, Department of Material Design and Engineering, University of Toyama Mizuki Kitamatsu Department of Applied Chemistry, Kindai University Takeshi Takarada Department of Regenerative Science, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kunitoshi Shigeyasu Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Minoru Suzuki Institute for Integrated Radiation and Nuclear Science, Kyoto University Toshiyoshi Fujiwara Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Hiroyuki Michiue Neutron Therapy Research Center, Okayama University Background: Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is a molecularly targeted chemoradiation modality that relies on boron delivery agents such as p-borophenylalanine (BPA), which require LAT1 (L-type amino acid transporter 1) for tumor uptake. However, the limited efficacy of BPA in LAT1-low tumors restricts its therapeutic scope. To address this limitation, we developed a tumor marker–guided BNCT strategy targeting cancers overexpressing the clinically validated glycan biomarker CA19-9. Methods: We conducted transcriptomic analyses using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets to identify LAT1-low cancers with high CA19-9 expression. These analyses revealed elevated expression of fucosyltransferase 3 (FUT3), which underlies CA19-9 biosynthesis, in pancreatic, biliary, and ovarian malignancies. Based on this, we synthesized a novel boron compound, fucose-BSH, designed to selectively accumulate in CA19-9–positive tumors. We evaluated its physicochemical properties, pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, and antitumor efficacy in cell lines and xenograft models, comparing its performance to that of BPA. Results: Fucose-BSH demonstrated significantly greater boron uptake in CA19-9–positive cell lines (AsPC-1, Panc 04.03, HuCCT-1, HSKTC, OVISE) compared to CA19-9–negative PANC-1. In HuCCT-1 xenografts, boron accumulation reached 36.2 ppm with a tumor/normal tissue ratio of 2.1, outperforming BPA. Upon neutron irradiation, fucose-BSH–mediated BNCT achieved > 80% tumor growth inhibition. Notably, fucose-BSH retained therapeutic efficacy in LAT1-deficient models where BPA was ineffective, confirming LAT1-independent targeting. Conclusions: This study establishes a novel precision BNCT approach by leveraging CA19-9 as a tumor-selective glycan marker for boron delivery. Fucose-BSH offers a promising platform for expanding BNCT to previously inaccessible LAT1-low malignancies, including pancreatic, biliary, and ovarian cancers. These findings provide a clinically actionable strategy for tumor marker–driven chemoradiation and lay the foundation for translational application in BNCT. This strategy has the potential to support companion diagnostic development and precision stratification in ongoing and future BNCT clinical trials. Translational Relevance: Malignancies with elevated CA19-9 expression, such as pancreatic, biliary, and ovarian cancers, are associated with poor prognosis and limited response to current therapies. This study presents a tumor marker–guided strategy for boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) by leveraging CA19-9 glycan biology to enable selective tumor targeting via fucose-BSH, a novel boron compound. Through transcriptomic data mining and preclinical validation, fucose-BSH demonstrated LAT1-independent boron delivery, potent BNCT-mediated cytotoxicity, and tumor-specific accumulation in CA19-9–positive models. These findings support a precision chemoradiation approach that addresses a critical gap in BNCT applicability, offering a clinically actionable pathway for patient stratification and therapeutic development in CA19-9–expressing cancers. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 2211-5463 15 10 2025 Osmotic pressure‐induced calcium response states 1714 1722 EN Zidan Gao Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Okayama University, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Keiji Naruse Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Okayama Japan Masatoshi Morimatsu Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Okayama Japan Osmotic pressure is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis; however, the mechanisms by which cells sense and respond to acute osmotic stress remain incompletely understood. Here, we applied rapid osmotic pressure stimulation to cultured HEK293T cells and observed dynamic intracellular calcium responses. Acute hypotonic stimulation evoked calcium response patterns, whereas hypertonic and isotonic stress did not elicit similar effects. Mechanistically, these calcium signals originated from the endoplasmic reticulum via ryanodine receptor 2 and propagated to neighboring cells through Connexin 43-mediated gap junctions. These findings reveal a previously unrecognized role for calcium signaling in the acute cellular response to osmotic stress, providing new insights into the mechanisms of intercellular communication during osmotic adaptation. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Ceramic Society of Japan Acta Medica Okayama 1348-6535 133 7 2025 Underwater superoleophobic NaNbO3-based photocatalyst thin films prepared on bare soda-lime glass by sol–gel process 393 399 EN Shunsuke Nishimoto Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Kazuya Kageyama Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Shusuke Egusa Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University Yoshikazu Kameshima Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University A self-cleaning flat transparent thin photocatalyst film was prepared on a bare soda-lime glass by a simple method using niobium alkoxide solution, which is a common coating solution for the sol–gel method. The film consisted of crystalline NaNbO3 and Na2Nb2O6·H2O phases. It was suggested that NaNbO3 and Na2Nb2O6·H2O were directly formed between the soda-lime glass and the niobium alkoxide coating solution during the heat treatment. Under UV irradiation, the film surface exhibited low photocatalytic oxidation activity and excellent photo-induced hydrophilicity. The hydrophilic state of the sample was maintained for 1 month in the dark, while the hydrophilicity of TiO2 sample prepared by a sol–gel method was decreased within 5 days in the dark. Additionally, the surface demonstrated excellent underwater oil repellency toward n-hexadecane and oleic acid and the ability to remove the adsorbed oily contaminant in water. These properties were also superior to those of the TiO2 surface. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 1470-160X 177 2025 Long-term effects of forest growth dynamics and climate change on groundwater recharge and evapotranspiration in a steep catchment of western Japan 113652 EN Rendilicha Halake Guyo Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Kunyang Wang Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University Shin-ichi Onodera Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University Mitsuyo Saito Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University Toshitsugu Moroizumi Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Growing water demand for human and environmental needs has led to increased reliance on groundwater resources. However, groundwater is a finite resource, and its sustainability is closely linked to recharge processes, which are influenced by forest growth dynamics as well as climate change. Evapotranspiration, largely driven by vegetation cover and climatic conditions, represents a major component of terrestrial water loss that can reduce groundwater recharge. In this study, forest growth trends, reflecting the complete developmental stages from juvenile to post-maturity of a representative species, were reconstructed using remote sensing data, forest inventories, and field studies, and incorporated into the SWAT model to evaluate their impacts on groundwater recharge and evapotranspiration as indicators of forest hydrological function and ecosystem health. The model’s vegetation growth simulation was enhanced and uncertainty reduced by dynamically updating it with MODIS-derived leaf area index (LAI) at 5-year intervals. Groundwater recharge estimates were further improved through multi-variable calibration using Penman–Monteith–Leuning evapotranspiration (V2) and streamflow data to ensure water budget closure. Results showed that evergreen conifer growth from planting to maturity significantly reduced groundwater recharge (–4.7 mm/year) and increased evapotranspiration (+7.6 mm/year). In contrast, natural and mature deciduous broadleaf forests showed more stable recharge and evapotranspiration trends. Rising temperatures were identified as a key climatic driver of reduced recharge and increased evapotranspiration, reflecting broader global warming impacts. This study demonstrates that forest growth dynamics, especially during the critical transition from planting to maturity, alongside climate change, play a crucial role in shaping the catchment’s water balance and offer valuable insights for sustainable groundwater management, particularly in transitional forest ecosystems. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

AIP Publishing Acta Medica Okayama 0021-9606 163 19 2025 Interplay of coil–globule transitions and aggregation in homopolymer aqueous solutions: Simulation and topological insights 191101 EN Junichi Komatsu Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Okayama University Kenichiro Koga Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Okayama University Jonas Berx Niels Bohr International Academy, Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen We investigate the structural and topological properties of hydrophobic homopolymer chains in aqueous solutions using molecular dynamics simulations and circuit topology (CT) analysis. By combining geometric observables, such as the radius of gyration and the degree of aggregation, with CT data, we capture the relationship between coil–globule and aggregation transitions, resolving the system’s structural changes with temperature. Our results reveal a temperature-driven collective transition from isolated coiled chains to globular aggregates. At a characteristic transition temperature Tc, each chain in multichain systems undergoes a rapid coil–globule collapse, coinciding with aggregation, in contrast to the gradual collapse observed in single-chain systems at infinite dilution. This collective transition is reflected in geometric descriptors and a reorganization of CT motifs, shifting from intrachain-dominated motifs at low temperatures to a diverse ensemble of multichain motifs at higher temperatures. CT motif enumeration provides contact statistics while offering a topologically detailed view of polymer organization. These findings highlight CT’s utility as a structural descriptor for polymer systems and suggest applications for biopolymer aggregation and folding. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Oxford University Press (OUP) Acta Medica Okayama 2730-6151 5 1 2025 Proliferation of a bloom-forming phytoplankton via uptake of polyphosphate-accumulating bacteria under phosphate-limiting conditions ycaf192 EN Seiya Fukuyama Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Fumiko Usami Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Ryuichi Hirota Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University Ayano Satoh Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University Shizuka Ohara Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University Ken Kondo Research Institute of Environment, Agriculture and Fisheries , Osaka Prefecture Yuki Gomibuchi Department of Physics and Information Technology, Faculty of Computer Science and Systems Engineering, Kyushu Institute of Technology Takuo Yasunaga Department of Physics and Information Technology, Faculty of Computer Science and Systems Engineering, Kyushu Institute of Technology Toshimitsu Onduka Hatsukaichi Branch, Fisheries Technology Institute , Fisheries Research and Education Agency Akio Kuroda Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University Kazuhiko Koike Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University Shoko Ueki Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University Harmful algal blooms negatively impact the ecosystem and fisheries in affected areas. Eutrophication is a major factor contributing to bloom occurrence, and phosphorus is particularly important in limiting the growth of bloom-forming algae. Although algae efficiently utilize orthophosphate (Pi) as a phosphorous source over other molecular forms, Pi is often limited in the marine environment. While uptake and utilization of soluble inorganic and organic phosphorous by bloom-forming algae has been extensively studied, the details of geochemical and biological phosphorous cycling remain to be elucidated. Here, we report for the first time that the bloom-forming alga Heterosigma akashiwo can phagocytose bacteria and grow under phosphate-depleted conditions. The addition of Vibrio comitans to Pi-depleted H. akashiwo enabled the alga propagate to high cell densities, whereas other bacterial strains had only a minor effect. Importantly, V. comitans accumulates polyphosphate―a linear polymer of Pi―at high levels. The extent of algal proliferation induced by the addition of Vibrio species and polyphosphate-accumulating Escherichia coli correlated strongly with their polyphosphate content, indicating that bacterial polyphosphate served as an alternative PO43－ source for H. akashiwo. The direct uptake of polyphosphate-accumulating bacteria through algal phagocytosis may represent a novel biological phosphorous-cycling pathway in marine ecosystems. The role of polyphosphate-accumulating marine bacteria as a hidden phosphorous source required for bloom formation warrants further investigation. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 2666-5204 26 2025 Characteristics of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest due to cerebrovascular disorders: a nationwide, retrospective, observational study 101145 EN Yoshiyuki Ueda Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine Tsuyoshi Nojima Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine Takafumi Obara Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine Takashi Hongo Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine Tetsuya Yumoto Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine Kohei Tsukahara Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine Takashi Yorifuji Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Epidemiology Atsunori Nakao Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine Hiromichi Naito Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Emergency, Critical Care, and Disaster Medicine Background: Data on out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) due to cerebrovascular disorders is limited. This study aimed to describe the characteristics, outcomes, and annual trends of outcomes for OHCA originating from cerebrovascular disorders. Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis using an Utstein-style Japanese National Registry. Adult patients with OHCA due to cerebrovascular disorders and transported to the hospital between 2005 and 2021 were included. The primary outcome was a favorable neurological outcome at 30-day. We analyzed factors associated with outcomes using a multivariable logistic regression model, then evaluated annual trends of outcomes for cerebrovascular-induced OHCA. Results: Among 2,081,023 OHCA patients, 52,969 had cerebrovascular-induced cardiac arrest. Of these, 1903 (3.5 %) achieved a favorable neurological outcome. In the multivariable logistic regression model, male sex (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.41, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.20–1.61), initial shockable rhythm (aOR 3.10, 95 % CI 2.18–4.40), witnessed cardiac arrest (aOR 1.92, 95 % CI: 1.57–2.34), and prehospital return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) (aOR 11.1, 95 % CI: 9.09–13.5) were associated with favorable neurological outcomes. Prehospital adrenaline administration was negatively associated with favorable neurological outcomes (aOR 0.22, 95 % CI: 0.16–0.30). The proportion of patients with favorable neurological outcomes increased over time, rising from 3.14 % in 2005 to 4.12 % in 2021. Conclusions: Although OHCA due to cerebrovascular disorders is generally associated with poor neurological outcomes, 3.5 % of the patients with cerebrovascular-induced OHCA in this study had favorable neurological outcomes, with a yearly trend improving over decades. Patient characteristics associated with a higher likelihood of a favorable neurological outcome included prehospital ROSC, initial shockable rhythm, and witnessed cardiac arrest. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 1616-301X 2025 A Biologically-Architected Wear and Damage-Resistant Nanoparticle Coating From the Radular Teeth of Cryptochiton stelleri e21664 EN Taifeng Wang Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California Yu Chen Lyles School of Civil and Construction Engineering, Purdue University Ezra Sarmiento Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California Taige Hao Materials and Manufacturing Technologies Program, University of California Atsushi Arakaki Division of Biotechnology and Life Science, Institute of Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology Michiko Nemoto Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University Pablo Zavattieri Lyles School of Civil and Construction Engineering, Purdue University David Kisailus Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California Nature utilizes simple building blocks to construct mechanically robust materials that demonstrate superior performance under extreme conditions. These exquisite structures result from the controlled synthesis and hierarchical assembly of nanoscale organic and mineral components that have provided critical evolutionary advantages to ensure survival. One such example is the ultrahard radular teeth found in mollusks, which are used to scrape against rock to feed on algae. Here, it is reported that the leading edges of these teeth consist of a wear-resistant coating that is comprised of densely packed ≈65 nm magnetic nanoparticles integrated within an organic matrix of chitin and protein. These mesocrystalline magnetite-based structures are assembled from smaller, highly aligned nanocrystals with inter/intracrystalline organics introduced during the crystallization process. Nanomechanical testing reveals that this multi-scale, nano-architected coating has a combination of increased hardness and a slight decrease in modulus versus geologic magnetite provides the surface of the chiton tooth with superior abrasion resistance. The mesocrystalline structures fracture at primary domain interfaces, corroborated by computational models, providing significant toughening to the tooth under extreme contact stresses. The design features revealed provide insight for the design and fabrication of next-generation advanced wear- and impact-resistant coatings for tooling, machinery, wind turbines, armor, etc. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 2045-2322 15 1 2025 Association between gestational age and child health and neurodevelopment in twins from a nationwide longitudinal survey in Japan 40608 EN Kei Tamai Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Naomi Matsumoto Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Akihito Takeuchi Division of Neonatology, NHO Okayama Medical Center Makoto Nakamura Division of Neonatology, NHO Okayama Medical Center Misao Kageyama Division of Neonatology, NHO Okayama Medical Center Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Despite previous research, evidence on the relationship between gestational age and long-term health and neurodevelopmental outcomes among twins remains limited. Using data from the Longitudinal Survey of Babies in the 21st Century, we analyzed 549 twins born in Japan in 2010. The twins were grouped by gestational age: <32 weeks (very preterm), 32–36 weeks (moderately and late preterm), and 37–38 weeks (early term). The health status was evaluated by hospitalization between 0.5 and 5.5 years, and behavioral development was assessed using questionnaires at 2.5 and 5.5 years. Binomial log-linear regression with generalized estimating equations accounted for within-pair correlations and adjusted for child and parental variables. Moderately and late preterm children showed a higher risk of all-cause hospitalization during infancy than early-term children (adjusted risk ratio, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.0–2.6). Very preterm children showed a higher point estimate of the risk ratio, but a wide CI (risk ratio, 2.3; 95% CI, 0.8–6.8). Behavioral delays were more common in preterm groups at 2.5 years but not at 5.5 years. Preterm twins have a higher risk of hospitalization during infancy and developmental delay at 2.5 years than early-term twins. These risks show an increasing trend as gestational age decreases. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 2168-8184 17 10 2025 Association of Use of GRADE, Protocol Registration, and Journal Impact Factor With Reporting and Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews Published in Rehabilitation Journals: A Meta-Epidemiological Study e95695 EN Takahiro Tsuge Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Norio Yamamoto Systematic Reviewers, Scientific Research WorkS Peer Support Group (SRWS-PSG) Yosuke Tomita Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Care, Takasaki University of Health and Welfare Akikazu Hagiyama Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Daijo Shiratsuchi Physical Therapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kagoshima University Masatsugu Okamura Systematic Reviewers, Scientific Research WorkS Peer Support Group (SRWS-PSG) Takao Kaneko Rehabilitation, Yamagata Prefectural Central Hospital Kosuke Suzuki Rehabilitation, Yamagata Saisei Hospital Yuki Nakashima Systematic Reviewers, Scientific Research WorkS Peer Support Group (SRWS-PSG) Shunsuke Taito Systematic Reviewers, Scientific Research WorkS Peer Support Group (SRWS-PSG) Takashi Yorifuji Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University This study aimed to identify factors associated with the reporting and methodological quality of systematic reviews (SRs) published in rehabilitation journals. We conducted a meta-epidemiological study as a secondary analysis of a previous study. The study protocol was registered in the Open Science Framework. We analyzed 219 SRs from rehabilitation journals published since 2020. We assessed reporting quality using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) 2020 and methodological quality using A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) 2. Multiple linear regression and Spearman's correlation were used to identify factors associated with quality, including Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach and the Journal Impact Factor (JIF). Multivariate analysis revealed PRISMA 2020 adherence was significantly associated with use of GRADE (β = 4.33; 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.24-5.42), protocol registration (β = 3.40; 95% CI: 2.32-4.47), and the JIF (2023) (β = 0.69; 95% CI: 0.42-0.95). AMSTAR 2 adherence was also significantly associated with use of GRADE (β = 2.52; 95% CI: 1.88-3.17), protocol registration (β = 2.07; 95% CI: 1.44-2.70), and the JIF (2023) (β = 0.29; 95% CI: 0.14-0.45). Weak positive correlations were observed between the JIF (2023) and both PRISMA 2020 and AMSTAR 2 adherence (ρ = 0.27 and ρ = 0.22, respectively; both P < 0.01). It should be noted that these findings reflect associations and do not imply causality. To enhance the quality of SRs in rehabilitation, researchers should prioritize adherence to PRISMA 2020, particularly the use of GRADE and protocol registration, which this study identified as key associated factors. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Elsevier BV Acta Medica Okayama 1349-0079 68 1 2026 Dynamin 2 is involved in osteoblast migration by regulating the organization of F-actin 100720 EN Takumi Moriya Department of Oral Morphology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University A. Surong Department of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Nanami Tatsumi Department of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Hiroshi Yamada Department of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Fumiko Takemoto Department of Orthodontics, Okayama University Hospital Hiroshi Kamioka Department of Orthodontics, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Hirohiko Okamura Department of Oral Morphology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Mika Ikegame Department of Oral Morphology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Objectives: Dynamin, a GTPase that regulates membrane dynamics, has recently been implicated in actin cytoskeletal remodeling. This study aimed to elucidate the role of dynamin in osteoblast migration by examining the effects of dynamin inhibition on the localization and organization of F-actin and dynamin 2 in MC3T3-E1 cells. Methods: MC3T3-E1 cells were treated with dynamin inhibitors (Dyngo 4a and Dynole 34-2), and cell migration was assessed using a wound-healing assay. Fluorescent staining was performed to analyze the intracellular localization of F-actin and dynamin 2. Results: Dynamin inhibition significantly reduced the migration of MC3T3-E1 cells. Fluorescence analysis revealed a marked decrease in the accumulation and colocalization of F-actin and dynamin 2 at the protrusion edge. Additionally, dynamin inhibition suppressed the formation of lamellipodia and stress fibers while promoting the appearance of abnormal F-actin clusters in the cytoplasm. Conclusions: These findings suggest that dynamin plays an essential role in osteoblast migration by regulating actin cytoskeletal remodeling, particularly through the formation of lamellipodia and stress fibers. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2025 Research on antiyeast effect of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 3121M0s EN Md. Bakhtiar Lijon Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2025 Studies on the functional roles of γδ T cells in the early phase of acute avian coccidiosis EN LE VIET QUAN Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2025 Morphological/developmental characteristics and oxidative stress resilience of porcine oocytes derived from antral follicles with various diameters and classified by brilliant cresyl blue staining EN VAN NGOC PHONG Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2025 山口県育成小輪系ユリ切花の安定的周年供給体系の確立に関する研究 EN Yuko FUKUMITSU Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2025 A capsidless (+)RNA yadokarivirus hosted by a dsRNA victorivirus is infectious as particles, cDNA, and dsRNA EN MUHAMMAD FADLI Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.