bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motor behaviors in children with autism spectrum disorder with a neurotypical sibling
Authors: Lu Yuemei , Hauck Janet L.
Published: June 2024

Background

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can experience issues in motor development and fall short of physical activity (PA) recommendations. Family members, especially parents and siblings, play important roles in influencing their motor behaviors.

Objective

This study investigated motor behaviors (i.e., levels of PA, parent‐perceived motor competence, and related family dynamics) in children with ASD during a historical event—the COVID‐19 pandemic—during which most service approaches were not being used, and children with ASD were staying at home with their parents and neurotypical (NT) siblings.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study recruited 17 ASD–NT–parent triads (51 participants in total). Motor behaviors were all measured by questionnaires and surveys, with levels of PA also measured objectively using ActiGraph GT3X. Descriptive analyses were conducted.

Results

Children with ASD participated in more types of sedentary activities than leisure‐time and sports activities. Parents perceived a low level of motor competence in their children with ASD, and compared with siblings, they perceived more interactions and higher self‐efficacy in supporting PA in children with ASD.

Conclusion

The findings of this study can be helpful to us as we evolve our understanding and strategies to influence motor behaviors in children with ASD, ultimately to advance our service‐delivery model to include family‐based approaches.

Implications

This study should inform future ASD studies of the importance of providing quality family‐based PA/education programs for children with ASD and boosting parents' and NT siblings' self‐efficacy in supporting PA in children with ASD.
The role of Black men in protecting Black girls' sexual development
Authors: Crooks Natasha , Sosina Wuraola , Debra Alyssa , Coleman Diamond , Barrie Rabiatu , Singer Randi
Published: June 2024

Background

Black girls in the United States are at increased risk for HIV and sexually transmitted infections due to early sexual development, stereotyping, adultification, and lack of protection. The Becoming a Sexual Black Woman framework highlights protection, or lack thereof, as a critical component of Black girls' sexual development.

Objective

The purpose of this study was twofold. First, we sought to understand how girls protect their bodies within the societal context of the COVID‐19 pandemic and social injustice. Second, we aimed to explore how Black men can better protect Black girls' sexual development.

Method

We conducted 25 in‐depth interviews with Black girls aged 9 to 18 years, primarily across the Midwestern United States. We performed a directed content analysis by reviewing transcripts, coding data, and developing themes.

Results

Findings revealed four themes: (a) feeling unsafe, (b) adultification of Black girls' bodies and increased vulnerability to harm, (c) desire for more protection by Black male caregivers, and (d) needing Black men to speak up.

Conclusion

Black men's engagement in girls' sexual development may significantly influence the health outcomes of Black girls and women throughout their life course.

Implications

Findings may inform future family‐based interventions that better protect and promote the sexual health and development of Black girls.
Neo‐extractivism, (de)growth and resurgent pink tide governments in Latin America
Authors: Hawkins Mark
Published: June 2024

The 21st century in Latin America began with a widespread shift to the left politically, a phenomenon called the ‘pink tide’. Following a period of right‐wing re‐ascendancy, left wing governments are again gaining traction across the continent. This article analyses the end of the last pink tide via a dialogue between the post‐extractivism and degrowth literature by examining Bolivia, Ecuador, and Brazil. This is done through a look at the impacts of both economic growth as a normative policy aim and extractivism as the engine to produce this growth on political developments in these countries. In the tradition of Gramsci this is interpreted as a hegemonic force, recast here as growth‐through‐extraction, that serves to perpetuate the interests of wealthy classes despite political changes. This article concludes with a brief analysis of how academic debates and political processes have moved on since Escobar 2015 and what this might mean for the new left‐wing governments of Latin America.
Effect of different thawing methods on the quality of yellowtail (Seriola quinqueradiata) fillets
Authors: Shen Xinjie , Gu Jinhui , Jiang Xin , Liang Qianqian , Wang Dajun , Zhang Shumin , Shi Wenzheng
Published: June 2024

The effects of hydrostatic thawing (HT), flowing water thawing (FT), ultrasonic thawing (UT), microwave thawing (MT), and microwave‐combined ultrasonic thawing (MUT) on the quality of yellowtail fillets were investigated via thawing time, physicochemical quality, water retention, microstructure and water migration distribution. The results showed that MUT had a shorter thawing time, second only to microwave thawing (MT) and significantly shorter than other thawing methods. Moreover, MUT could retain a better performance of the samples, such as colour, texture, water retention and moisture distribution, and prevent damage to the microstructure. In addition, freshness analysis showed that pH, total volatile saline nitrogen and K values were optimal for MUT. Therefore, MUT could be a viable thawing method that increases the thawing rate of yellowtail fillets while maintaining their quality characteristics.
Managers’ staging of earnings conference calls around actual share repurchases
Authors: Duong Hong Kim , Do Chuong , Do Huy N.
Published: June 2024

We use earnings call transcripts to examine whether managers strategically change their disclosure behaviors before an actual share repurchase. Our findings suggest that managers use tone management to strategically portray a more negative outlook for the firm in the earnings call before an actual repurchase. In addition, we find that managers of repurchasing firms “cast” the call with more unfavorable analysts even when more favorable analysts are available. These disclosure strategies aim to influence the information flows to the market and allow repurchasing firms to repurchase their shares at a discounted price. We further show that insiders of repurchasing firms adjust their subsequent stock trading accordingly. Following more negative conference calls, insiders exhibit a tendency to increase share repurchases or reduce sales of company shares. Our findings underscore the increasingly sophisticated disclosure strategies employed by managers to wield influence over information dynamics in the market leading up to share repurchases.
Profiles of quality of outpatient care among individuals with mental disorders based on survey and administrative data
Authors: Fleury Marie‐Josée , Cao Zhirong , Grenier Guy , Rahme Elham
Published: June 2024

Rationale

Though it is crucial to contribute to patient recovery through access, diversity, continuity and regularity of outpatient care, still today most of these are deemed nonoptimal. Identifying patient profiles based on outpatient service use and quality of care indicators might help formulate more personalized interventions and reduce adverse outcomes.

Aims and Objectives

This study aimed to identify profiles of individuals with mental disorders (MDs) patterned after their outpatient care use and quality of care received, and to link those profiles to individual characteristics and subsequent outcomes.

Methods

A cohort of 5669 individuals with MDs was considered based on data from the 2013–2014 and 2015–2016 Canadian Community Health Survey, which were linked to administrative data from the Quebec health insurance registry. Latent class analysis generated profiles based on service use over the 12 months preceding each respondent's interview, and comparative analyses were used to associate profiles with sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, and health outcomes over the three following months.

Results

Four profiles were identified. Profile 1 (P‐1) was labelled ‘Low service use’; P‐2 ‘Moderate general practitioner (GP) care and continuity and regularity of care’; P‐3 ‘High GP care, continuity and regularity of care, and low psychiatrist care’; and P‐4 ‘High psychiatrist care and regularity of care, and low GP care’. Profiles 3 and 4 (~50% of the cohort) were provided with better care, but showed worse outcomes, mainly acute care use due to more complex conditions and unmet needs. Profiles 1 and 2 had better outcomes as they showed fewer risk factors such as being younger and having better social conditions.

Conclusion

Intensity, diversity and regularity of care were higher in profiles with more complex MDs, chronic physical illnesses, and worse perceived health conditions. Adapting specific interventions for each profile, such as assertive community treatment or intensive case management for Profile 4, is recommended.
Experiences and preliminary effects of the Comprehensive chrOnic caRe outpatiEnt (CORE) clinic for patients with multimorbidity in the hospital setting
Authors: Remers Toine E. P. , Jeurissen Patrick P. T. , Coremans Annemiek , Olde Rikkert Marcel G. M. , van Dulmen Simone A.
Published: June 2024

Rationale

Healthcare systems remain disease oriented despite growing sustainability concerns caused by inadequate management of patients with multimorbidity. Comprehensive care programmes (CCPs) can play an important role in streamlining care delivery, but large differences in setup and results hinder firm conclusions on their effectiveness. Many elements for successful implementation of CCPs are identified, but strategies to overcome barriers and embed programmes within health systems remain unknown.

Aims and Objectives

To address this knowledge gap through a detailed study of implementing a CCP in a Dutch hospital setting, including patient experiences, facilitators, barriers and ways to overcome those barriers. Additionally, this study aims to explore effects on patient satisfaction and healthcare use.

Methods

A qualitative study design with 39 semistructured interviews and focus groups between July 2020 and February 2023 with 16 patients and 17 involved professionals. Additionally, effects on quantitative outcomes for patient satisfaction (PACIC‐20) and healthcare use were explored.

Results

Professionals expressed a wide range of topics related to implementation and ways to overcome barriers at hospital and system level. Alterations in the design to accommodate varying care demands, focus on inclusions through referrals, and lack of long‐term support and appropriate financing were key topics. Patients expressed varying experiences, stated a strong desire for comprehensive information, and emphasised the importance of trust in caregivers. Patient satisfaction showed no effects, while healthcare use showed slight decreases in trends, but patient numbers were limited.

Conclusion

The introduction of a CCP is feasible, and exploratory analysis on effectiveness shows lower hospital care use without decreasing patient satisfaction. However, this is accompanied by several challenges that show current fragmented systems still do not support implementation of integrated care initiatives. Overcoming those comes with substantial costs and may require a strong bottom‐up implementation within a motivated team and actions on all levels of healthcare systems.
The Hanks‐like serine/threonine protein kinase YihE is crucial for Aeromonas veronii virulence and adhesion
Authors: Shi Dongjie , Yang Bintong , Zhao Tong , Sun Wenchao , Cui Haiying , Kang Yuanhuan
Published: June 2024

Aeromonas veronii is an important pathogen found in various aquatic environments and products, posing a threat to public health. The Hanks‐like serine/threonine protein kinase is closely linked to the pathogenesis of pathogenic bacteria, but the exact role of YihE in A. veronii remains still unknown. To study the specific function of the YihE kinase, we constructed a knockout mutant of the yihE gene in A. veronii. The deletion of the yihE gene resulted in changes to the metabolism of L‐arginine‐AMC and acetic acid, as well as enhanced resistance to ampicillin and kanamycin in A. veronii. Additionally, the ΔyihE strain demonstrated a 1.4‐fold increase in biofilm formation ability and a 1.8‐fold decrease in adhesion and invasion to EPCs when compared to the wild‐type strain. A significant decrease in cytotoxicity was observed at 2 and 3 h post‐infection with EPCs compared to the wild‐type strain. Additionally, the deletion of the yihE gene was associated with a significant decrease in motility of the strain. Furthermore, the deletion of the yihE gene resulted in a 1.44‐fold increase in the LD50 of A. veronii in zebrafish. These findings offer valuable insights into the pathogenic mechanisms of A. veronii.
From Boundary Objects to Boundary Infrastructure: A Process Study of Collaboration between Big Science and Big Business
Authors: Hummel Jochem T. , Berends Hans , Tuertscher Philipp
Published: June 2024

The development of a novel boundary infrastructure for large‐scale interorganizational collaboration presents a challenge that is ill‐understood: how can individual boundary objects, which do not suffice for large‐scale collaboration and might even engender conflict, be developed into a coherent boundary infrastructure that facilitates the crossing of multiple boundaries? In a longitudinal study, we investigated how Helix Nebula – a collaboration among Europe's big science and big business organizations – developed a cloud computing infrastructure for scientific research. Our findings show that the process involves two recursive mechanisms. The scaffolding of boundary objects helps organizations to iteratively create various technical and organizational objects that support each other's development. The reconfiguring of coalitions involves organizations constantly rearranging into subgroups, which enables them to accommodate their differences and common needs. Our study contributes a process model of how organizations develop boundary objects into a coherent boundary infrastructure and shines light on the role of scaffolding and the political dynamics of coalitions as a driving force for large‐scale interorganizational collaboration.
Multi‐functional application of octacosanol as a feed additive in animal and aquaculture: A review
Authors: Shehata Akram Ismael , Rasheed Majeeda , Rafiq Hajirah , Khalid Nimra , Rafique Ayesha , Alhoshy Mayada , Habib Yusuf Jibril , El Basuini Mohammed F.
Published: June 2024

Demand for sustainable animal and aquaculture production drives the exploration of novel feed additives. We highlight octacosanol, a long‐chain alcohol from plant sources, as a promising multifunctional feed additive. The review comprehensively evaluates octacosanol's applications in animal and aquaculture nutrition, including its molecular properties and mechanisms of action. It elucidates how octacosanol affects lipid metabolism, energy utilization and immune modulation. Octacosanol enhances livestock growth, efficiency, carcass quality and stress resilience. We thoroughly discuss how it enhances feed utilization, disease resistance and overall performance in finfish and shellfish in aquaculture. The review also addresses the ecological and sustainability aspects of octacosanol utilization. We identify challenges and knowledge gaps in octacosanol research, prompting suggestions for future investigations. We address regulatory considerations, dosage optimization and potential interactions with other feed additives to ensure the safe and effective use of octacosanol. In conclusion, the review highlights octacosanol's potential as a versatile feed additive in the animal and aquaculture industries and urges further research to uncover its benefits and sustainability contributions, proposing a prospective research plan for this purpose. This thorough analysis is a valuable resource for researchers, nutritionists and industry professionals looking to find innovative methods to improve production practices and advance sustainable food systems.
How Therborn's Theory of Ideology Enhances Bourdieus's Theory of Fields
Authors: Kearney Matthew
Published: June 2024

Pierre Bourdieu's theory of subjectivity is perhaps the most elaborate within the broad constructivist tradition, and Göran Therborn's is perhaps the most elaborate within the Marxist tradition. These traditions emphasize opposite components and tend to produce different explanations on micro‐cognitive levels. But this article demonstrates a striking complementarity and ventures elements of synthesis. The two theorists are contrasted on four broad areas of social science: consciousness versus unconsciousness, identity formation, class, and discourse. Bourdieu emphasizes unconscious dispositions generally unamenable to individual control, whereas Therborn emphasizes formation of conscious beliefs. By bracketing the unconscious processes that Bourdieu captures, Therborn omits key mechanisms of social reproduction. Yet the mechanisms he does capture fit almost seamlessly into Bourdieuian theory on the mutual constitution of individual‐level subjectivity and societal‐level reproduction. Each theorist supplies what the other is missing for a theory of subjectivity with greater explanatory power than either offers alone.
Population profile of haemocytes in the subcastes of the leaf‐cutter ant Atta sexdens (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) unveiled by flow cytometry
Authors: Dourado Lídia Aparecida , Oliviera Leandro Licursi , Raimundo Ana Paula Pereira , Serrão José Eduardo
Published: June 2024

The leaf‐cutter ant Atta sexdens is crucial in ecological balance and economic activities, due to its contribution to the aeration and accumulation of organic matter in the soil, but it may also be an agricultural pest when it defoliates plants for the fungus growth used as a food source. This leaf‐cutter ant exhibits a polymorphic worker caste system with distinct activities in the colony. These functions are performed by workers classified into subcastes, including gardeners, which are responsible for the fungus and brood care; cleaners (waste removers), which remove wastes; foragers, which collect and transport plant parts to the nest; and soldiers, which are responsible for colony defence and the support of foraging activities. In our previous work, we showed that A. sexdens has five types of circulating haemocytes in the haemolymph, which play a vital role in immune defence. Herein, we further investigated the population profile of circulating haemocytes in the haemolymph of different worker subcastes of A. sexdens using flow cytometry. Each subcaste exhibited a single population of haemocytes in the haemolymph. However, a detailed 3D dispersion analysis uncovered five distinct haemocyte subpopulations, two of which presented higher quantities. The soldier displayed haemocytes with high fluorescence intensity, compared with the gardener, waste remover, and forager, along with increased complexity, compared with the gardener subcaste. These results suggest that these cells may be granulocytes and plasmatocytes, which are known for their role in insect immune defence.
Seeking financial and practical support in an abortion‐hostile state: Analysis of abortion fund data in Kentucky, 2014–2021
Authors: Smith Mikaela H. , Eggen Melissa B. , Prestrud Ann Alexis , Lafferty‐Danner Kathryn , Gyuras Hillary , Bessett Danielle , Perkins Lizz
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Philanthropic abortion funds are integral to accessing care in the United States, providing both financial and practical assistance. Yet relatively little is known about those who seek these essential services. In this study, we analyzed data from a Kentucky abortion fund to assess characteristics of abortion fund callers.

Methods

We analyzed 2014–2021 administrative data from the Kentucky Health Justice Network's (KHJN) Abortion Support Fund and compared them to abortion data from the Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH). We analyzed age, race, and pregnancy gestation at calling (KHJN) and abortion (KDPH), and calculated Z‐scores and p‐values to compare proportions in each category between the two data sources.

Results

The fund supported 6162 people from 2014 to 2021, when 28,741 people had abortions in Kentucky. Compared with KDPH data, KHJN had a higher percentage of callers who were under age 30, a higher percentage of callers who were Black or another race, and a higher percentage of callers at 14 weeks' gestation or higher.

Conclusions

Compared with state data, KHJN supported a higher percentage of young people, people of color, and people at later gestations. These findings support evidence that structurally vulnerable groups are more likely to face barriers to care and that abortion funds provide essential support necessary for reproductive equity.
WE…WITH ANNA: THE INCLUSORY PLURAL PRONOMINAL CONSTRUCTION IN FINNISH AND FENNO‐SWEDISH*
Authors: Kurki Klaus
Published: June 2024

This article provides a syntactic analysis of the inclusory plural pronominal construction in Fenno‐Swedish and Finnish. In this construction, a plural pronoun has a singular reading: vi …med Anna (literally “we …with Anna”) means ‘Anna and I’. In addition to the plural pronoun, the construction includes a comitative PP. Similar constructions can be found in several other languages, especially in the eastern parts of Europe which suggests it is an areal feature. The structural diversity of the construction in Fenno‐Swedish and Finnish seems to require an analysis that differs from previous analyses of other languages. Instead of a derivation involving movements, the study suggests that the analysis must employ an unvalued feature. In some well‐formed examples, the necessary movements would be far too complex for an appealing explanation. Additionally, the Fenno‐Swedish construction seems to allow an insight into a degree of development where the construction has not necessarily been fully grammaticalised.
Intraday Variation of Ankle Dorsiflexion in Short-Track Speed Skaters
Authors: Claudel Jules , Turner Émilie , Clément Julien
Published: June 2024

Purpose: Optimal ankle dorsiflexion range of motion plays a vital role in attaining the essential crouched posture necessary for excelling in speed skating. The purpose of this study was to determine how the ankle dorsiflexion angle evolves throughout a day of training and to identify the factors that influence this angle. Methods: Thirty short-track speed skaters, from 2 teams, participated in this study. The maximum ankle dorsiflexion angle was obtained in a lunge position facing a wall, using a digital inclinometer. All measures were obtained 3 times per side, 6 times per day, on 2 training days separated by at least a week. We conducted multiple tests to study the impact of repetition, day, side, team level, sex, and moment on the ankle dorsiflexion angle. Results: The 3 times repeated measures and the 2 days of training did not have a significant influence on the results. There was a statistically significant difference between the first time point of the day and the 5 other time points for both ankles. Moreover, the influence of sex and team level was not statistically significant. Conclusions: The results indicate that there are significant changes in ankle dorsiflexion range of motion but only after the first warm-up of the day. Such findings could enable team staff to enhance athletes’ precompetition preparation and tailor ankle mobility training regimens more effectively.
Resistance to freezing conditions of endemic Antarctic polychaetes is enhanced by cryoprotective proteins produced by their microbiome
Authors: Buschi Emanuela , Dell’Anno Antonio , Tangherlini Michael , Candela Marco , Rampelli Simone , Turroni Silvia , Palladino Giorgia , Esposito Erika , Martire Marco Lo , Musco Luigi , Stefanni Sergio , Munari Cristina , Fiori Jessica , Danovaro Roberto , Corinaldesi Cinzia
Published: June 2024

The microbiome plays a key role in the health of all metazoans. Whether and how the microbiome favors the adaptation processes of organisms to extreme conditions, such as those of Antarctica, which are incompatible with most metazoans, is still unknown. We investigated the microbiome of three endemic and widespread species of Antarctic polychaetes:
Leitoscoloplos geminus
,
Aphelochaeta palmeri
, and
Aglaophamus trissophyllus
. We report here that these invertebrates contain a stable bacterial core dominated by
Meiothermus
and
Anoxybacillus
, equipped with a versatile genetic makeup and a unique portfolio of proteins useful for coping with extremely cold conditions as revealed by pangenomic and metaproteomic analyses. The close phylosymbiosis between
Meiothermus
and
Anoxybacillus
and these Antarctic polychaetes indicates a connection with their hosts that started in the past to support holobiont adaptation to the Antarctic Ocean. The wide suite of bacterial cryoprotective proteins found in Antarctic polychaetes may be useful for the development of nature-based biotechnological applications.
MOXD1
is a lineage-specific gene and a tumor suppressor in neuroblastoma
Authors: Fredlund Elina , Andersson Stina , Hilgert Elien , Monferrer Ezequiel , Álvarez-Hernán Guadalupe , Karakaya Sinan , Loontiens Siebe , Bek Jan Willem , Gregor Tomas , Lecomte Estelle , Magnusson Emma , Miltenyte Enrika , Cabirol Marie , Kyknas Michail , Engström Niklas , Henriksson Marie Arsenian , Hammarlund Emma , Rosenblum Jared S. , Noguera Rosa , Speleman Frank , van Nes Johan , Mohlin Sofie
Published: June 2024

Neuroblastoma is a childhood developmental cancer; however, its embryonic origins remain poorly understood. Moreover, in-depth studies of early tumor-driving events are limited because of the lack of appropriate models. Herein, we analyzed RNA sequencing data obtained from human neuroblastoma samples and found that loss of expression of trunk neural crest–enriched gene
MOXD1
associates with advanced disease and worse outcome. Further, by using single-cell RNA sequencing data of human neuroblastoma cells and fetal adrenal glands and creating in vivo models of zebrafish, chick, and mouse, we show that MOXD1 is a determinate of tumor development. In addition, we found that
MOXD1
expression is highly conserved and restricted to mesenchymal neuroblastoma cells and Schwann cell precursors during healthy development. Our findings identify
MOXD1
as a lineage-restricted tumor-suppressor gene in neuroblastoma, potentiating further stratification of these tumors and development of novel therapeutic interventions.
Freestanding bilayer microscope for single-molecule imaging of membrane proteins
Authors: Pérez-Mitta Gonzalo , Sezgin Yeliz , Wang Weiwei , MacKinnon Roderick
Published: June 2024

Integral membrane proteins (IMPs) constitute a large fraction of organismal proteomes, playing fundamental roles in physiology and disease. Despite their importance, the mechanisms underlying dynamic features of IMPs, such as anomalous diffusion, protein-protein interactions, and protein clustering, remain largely unknown due to the high complexity of cell membrane environments. Available methods for in vitro studies are insufficient to study IMP dynamics systematically. This publication introduces the freestanding bilayer microscope (FBM), which combines the advantages of freestanding bilayers with single-particle tracking. The FBM, based on planar lipid bilayers, enables the study of IMP dynamics with single-molecule resolution and unconstrained diffusion. This paper benchmarks the FBM against total internal reflection fluorescence imaging on supported bilayers and is used here to estimate ion channel open probability and to examine the diffusion behavior of an ion channel in phase-separated bilayers. The FBM emerges as a powerful tool to examine membrane protein/lipid organization and dynamics to understand cell membrane processes.
Gongronella
sp. w5 hydrolyzes plant sucrose and releases fructose to recruit phosphate-solubilizing bacteria to provide plants with phosphorus
Authors: Wang Xiaojie , Fang Junnan , Li Li , Li Xing , Liu Pu , Song Bin , Adams Jonathan , Xiao Yazhong , Fang Zemin
Published: June 2024

The mechanisms of how plant-beneficial rhizospheric fungi interact with the soil microbial community to promote plant growth by facilitating their phosphorus acquisition are poorly understood. This work supported that a Mucoromycotina fungus,
Gongronella
sp. w5 (w5), could promote phosphorus uptake of
Medicago truncatula
by increasing the available phosphorus (P) in the soil. The abundance of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and the activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in alfalfa rhizosphere soil increased after w5 inoculation. Further analysis showed that w5 donated a portion of ALP activity and also stimulated the PSB to secrete ALP during plant-w5-PSB interaction to help release more available P in the rhizosphere of
M. truncatula
. Unlike most plant-beneficial rhizospheric fungi that mainly acquire hexoses from plants, w5 gained sucrose directly from the host plant and then recruited PSB to aid P acquisition by hydrolyzing sucrose and releasing mainly fructose to induce PSB to secrete ALP.

IMPORTANCE

This work supported that after absorbing plant sucrose,
Gongronella
sp. w5 mainly releases sucrose hydrolysis product fructose into the environment. Fructose was used as a carbon source and signaling molecules to induce PSB to co-produce higher alkaline phosphatase activity, releasing soil-available phosphorus and promoting
M. truncatula
growth. This is the first report that plant-beneficial fungi could directly metabolize sucrose from plants and then recruit PSB to aid P acquisition by providing fructose. Our findings revealed the diversity in pathways of plant-fungi-PSB interactions on soil P acquisition and deepened our understanding of the cooperation of growth-promoting microorganisms in plant rhizosphere.
Genetic modification of
Streptococcus dysgalactiae
by natural transformation
Authors: Mårli Marita Torrissen , Oppegaard Oddvar , Porcellato Davide , Straume Daniel , Kjos Morten
Published: June 2024

Streptococcus dysgalactiae
is an emerging human and animal pathogen. Functional studies of genes involved in virulence of
S. dysgalactiae
and other pyogenic group streptococci are often hampered by limited genetic tractability. It is known that pyogenic streptococci carry genes required for competence for natural transformation; however, in contrast to other streptococcal subgroups, there is limited evidence for gene transfer by natural transformation in these bacteria. In this study, we systematically assessed the genomes of 179
S
.
dysgalactiae
strains of both human and animal origins (subsp.
equisimilis
and
dysgalactiae,
respectively) for the presence of genes required for natural transformation. While a considerable fraction of the strains contained inactive genes, the majority (64.2%) of the strains had an intact gene set. In selected strains, we examined the dynamics of competence activation after addition of competence-inducing pheromones using transcriptional reporter assays and exploratory RNA-seq. Based on these findings, we were able to establish a protocol allowing us to utilize natural transformation to construct deletion mutants by allelic exchange in several
S. dysgalactiae
strains of both subspecies. As part of the work, we deleted putative lactose utilization genes to study their role in growth on lactose. The data presented here provide new knowledge on the potential of horizonal gene transfer by natural transformation in
S. dysgalactiae
and, importantly, demonstrates the possibility to exploit natural transformation for genetic engineering in these bacteria.

IMPORTANCE

Numerous
Streptococcus
spp. exchange genes horizontally through natural transformation, which also facilitates efficient genetic engineering in these organisms. However, for the pyogenic group of streptococci, including the emerging pathogen
Streptococcus dysgalactiae
, there is limited experimental evidence for natural transformation. In this study, we demonstrate that natural transformation
in vitro
indeed is possible in
S. dysgalactiae
strains under optimal conditions. We utilized this method to perform gene deletion through allelic exchange in several strains, thereby paving the way for more efficient gene engineering methods in pyogenic streptococci.
Gemykibivirus detection in acute encephalitis patients from Nepal
Authors: Tuladhar Eans Tara , Shrestha Smita , Vernon Susan , Droit Lindsay , Mihindukulasuriya Kathie A. , Tamang Mamta , Karki Lata , Elong Ngono Annie , Jha Bimlesh , Awal Bal Krishna , Chalise Bimal Sharma , Jha Runa , Shresta Sujan , Wang David , Manandhar Krishna Das
Published: June 2024

Acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) causes significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. In Nepal, Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) accounts for ~5-20% of AES cases, but ~75% of AES cases are of unknown etiology. We identified a gemykibivirus in CSF collected in 2020 from an 8-year-old male patient with AES using metagenomic next-generation sequencing. Gemykibiviruses are single stranded, circular DNA viruses in the family
Genomoviridae
. The complete genome of 2,211 nucleotides was sequenced, which shared 98.69% nucleotide identity to its closest relative, Human associated gemykibivirus 2 isolate SAfia-449D. Two real-time PCR assays were designed, and screening of 337 cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and 164 serum samples from AES patients in Nepal collected in 2020 and 2022 yielded 11 CSF and 1 serum sample that were positive in both PCR assays. Complete genomes of seven of the positives were sequenced. These results identify a potential candidate etiologic agent of encephalitis in Nepal.

IMPORTANCE

Viral encephalitis is a devastating disease, but unfortunately, worldwide, the causative virus in many cases is unknown. Therefore, it is important to identify viruses that could be responsible for cases of human encephalitis. Here, using metagenomic sequencing of CSF, we identified a gemykibivirus in a male child from Nepal with acute encephalitis syndrome (AES). We subsequently detected gemykibivirus DNA in CSF or serum of 12 more encephalitis patients by real-time PCR. The virus genomes we identified are highly similar to gemykibiviruses previously detected in CSF of three encephalitis patients from Sri Lanka. These results raise the possibility that gemykibivirus could be an underrecognized human pathogen.
The potential of
Pseudomonas fluorescens
SBW25 to produce viscosin enhances wheat root colonization and shapes root-associated microbial communities in a plant genotype-dependent manner in soil systems
Authors: Guan Ying , Bak Frederik , Hennessy Rosanna Catherine , Horn Herms Courtney , Elberg Christine Lorenzen , Dresbøll Dorte Bodin , Winding Anne , Sapkota Rumakanta , Nicolaisen Mette Haubjerg
Published: June 2024

Microorganisms interact with plant roots through colonization of the root surface, i.e., the rhizoplane or the surrounding soil, i.e., the rhizosphere. Beneficial rhizosphere bacteria such as
Pseudomonas
spp. can promote plant growth and protect against pathogens by producing a range of bioactive compounds, including specialized metabolites like cyclic lipopeptides (CLPs) known for their biosurfactant and antimicrobial activities. However, the role of CLPs in natural soil systems during bacteria-plant interactions is underexplored. Here,
Pseudomonas fluorescens
SBW25, producing the CLP viscosin, was used to study the impact of viscosin on bacterial root colonization and microbiome assembly in two cultivars of winter wheat (Heerup and Sheriff). We inoculated germinated wheat seeds with SBW25 wild type or a viscosin-deficient mutant and grew the plants in agricultural soil. After 2 weeks, enhanced root colonization of SBW25 wild type compared to the viscosin-deficient mutant was observed, while no differences were observed between wheat cultivars. In contrast, the impact on root-associated microbial community structure was plant-genotype-specific, and SBW25 wild type specifically reduced the relative abundance of an unclassified oomycete and
Phytophthora
in Sheriff and Heerup, respectively. This study provides new insights into the natural role of viscosin and specifically highlights the importance of viscosin in wheat root colonization under natural soil conditions and in shaping the root microbial communities associated with different wheat cultivars. Furthermore, it pinpoints the significance of microbial microdiversity, plant genotype, and microbe-microbe interactions when studying colonization of plant roots.

IMPORTANCE

Understanding parameters governing microbiome assembly on plant roots is critical for successfully exploiting beneficial plant-microbe interactions for improved plant growth under low-input conditions. While it is well-known from
in vitro
studies that specialized metabolites are important for plant-microbe interactions, e.g., root colonization, studies on the ecological role under natural soil conditions are limited. This might explain the often-low translational power from laboratory testing to field performance of microbial inoculants. Here, we showed that viscosin synthesis potential results in a differential impact on the microbiome assembly dependent on wheat cultivar, unlinked to colonization potential. Overall, our study provides novel insights into factors governing microbial assembly on plant roots, and how this has a derived but differential effect on the bacterial and protist communities.
Top 10 research priorities for congenital diaphragmatic hernia in Australia: James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership
Authors: Chiletti Roberto , Vodopic Courtney , Hunt Emiko , Lawer Jess , Bertinetti Monique , Malarbi Stephanie , Kyritsis Valerie , Petersen Scott , Stewart David , Hellstern Jean , Stewart Michael , Hickey Leah , Tingay David G , Prentice Trisha M
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The Gaps in the Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) Journey Priority Setting Partnership (PSP) was developed in collaboration with CDH Australia, James Lind Alliance (JLA) and the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute to identify research priorities for people with CDH, their families and healthcare workers in Australasia.

Design

Research PSP in accordance with the JLA standardised methodology.

Setting

Australian community and institutions caring for patients with CDH and their families.

Patients

CDH survivors, families of children born with CDH (including bereaved) and healthcare professionals including critical care physicians and nurses (neonatal and paediatric), obstetric, surgical, allied health professionals (physiotherapists, speech pathologists and speech therapists) and general practitioners.

Main outcome measure

Top 10 research priorities for CDH.

Results

377 questions, from a community-based online survey, were categorised and collated into 50 research questions. Through a further prioritisation process, 21 questions were then discussed at a prioritisation workshop where they were ranked by 21 participants (CDH survivors, parents of children born with CDH (bereaved and not) and 11 multidisciplinary healthcare professionals) into their top 10 research priorities.

Conclusion

Stakeholders’ involvement identified the top 10 CDH-related research questions, spanning from antenatal care to long-term functional outcomes, that should be prioritised for future research to maximise meaningful outcomes for people with CDH and their families.
Glaucoma: what the neurologist needs to know
Authors: Reynolds Gavin L , Plant Gordon , Epps Simon , Sebastian Rani , Bennetto Luke
Published: June 2024

Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy resulting from pathological changes at the optic disc due to elevated intraocular pressure. Its diagnosis, treatment and follow-up are almost entirely conducted in ophthalmology clinics, with screening conducted by community optometrists. Despite this, neurologists may encounter glaucoma in both its acute presentation (as angle closure, presenting as acute headache) and its chronic forms (often as optic neuropathy of unknown cause). An awareness of the underlying pathological process, and the key distinguishing signs and symptoms, will allow neurologists to identify the glaucomatous process rapidly. Timely referral is essential as glaucoma invariably results in progressive visual loss without treatment. This review therefore condenses the wide field of glaucoma into a practical summary, aimed at practitioners with limited clinical experience of this ophthalmic condition.
Chemical-mediated virulence: the effects of host chemicals on microbial virulence and potential new antivirulence strategies
Authors: Moulding Peri B. , El-Halfawy Omar M.
Published: June 2024

The rising antimicrobial resistance rates and declining antimicrobial discovery necessitate alternative strategies to combat multidrug-resistant pathogens. Targeting microbial virulence is an emerging area of interest. Traditionally, virulence factors were largely restricted to bacteria-derived toxins, adhesins, capsules, quorum sensing systems, secretion systems, factors required to sense, respond to, acquire, or synthesize, and utilize trace elements (such as iron and other metals) and micronutrients (such as vitamins), and other factors bacteria use to establish infection, form biofilms, or damage the host tissues and regulatory elements thereof. However, this traditional definition overlooks bacterial virulence that may be induced or influenced by host-produced metabolites or other chemicals that bacteria may encounter at the infection site. This review will discuss virulence from a non-traditional perspective, shedding light on chemical-mediated host–pathogen interactions and outlining currently available mechanistic insight into increased bacterial virulence in response to host factors. This review aims to define a possibly underestimated theme of chemically mediated host–pathogen interactions and encourage future validation and characterization of the contribution of host chemicals to microbial virulence in vivo. From this perspective, we discuss proposed antivirulence compounds and suggest new potential targets for antimicrobials that prevent chemical-mediated virulence. We also explore proposed host-targeting therapeutics reducing the level of host chemicals that induce microbial virulence, serving as virulence attenuators. Understanding the host chemical-mediated virulence may enable new antimicrobial solutions to fight multidrug-resistant pathogens.
A Review of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Triple Negative Breast Cancer and the Pharmacological Mechanisms
Authors: Wu Qinhang , Yan Hongkai , Kang Ziyi
Published: June 2024

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer. Conventional treatment options for TNBC often have limited efficacy and significant side effects. In recent years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has shown promising results in the treatment of TNBC. TCMs include herb combinations that have synergistic effects to regulate homeostasis in the body, reduce tumor resistance, and improve patient quality of life. At present, three main TCM methods are used to treat TNBC in the clinic: strengthening the body’s resistance, dispelling phlegm, and removing cancer toxins. This paper reviews the theories and mechanisms of each in TNBC treatment. The method of strengthening the body’s resistance emphasizes enhancing the body’s original Qi to fight against pathogenic factors; the method of dispelling phlegm seeks to eliminate phlegm stagnation and alleviate the burden on affected organs; the method of removing cancer toxins focuses on detoxification and detumescence to remove the toxic elements associated with TNBC. Although these methods treat TNBC from different etiologies, they have achieved good therapeutic effects and represent an important academic approach: That is, to cure the disease with a comprehensive view of the body and restore the balance of Yin and Yang. This knowledge lays a foundation for the future development and reasonable application of TCM in the clinic.
Operational experience and R&D results using the Google Cloud for High-Energy Physics in the ATLAS experiment
Authors: Megino Fernando Barreiro , De Kaushik , Elmsheuser Johannes , Klimentov Alexei , Lassnig Mario , Euell Miles , Hartmann Nikolai , Maeno Tadashi , Outschoorn Verena Martinez , Sandesara Jay Ajitbhai , Sell Dustin
Published: June 2024

The ATLAS experiment at CERN relies on a Worldwide Distributed Computing Grid infrastructure to support its physics program at the Large Hadron Collider. ATLAS has integrated cloud computing resources to complement its Grid infrastructure and conducted an R&D program on Google Cloud Platform. These initiatives leverage key features of commercial cloud providers: lightweight configuration and operation, elasticity and availability of diverse infrastructures. This paper examines the seamless integration of cloud computing services as a conventional Grid site within the ATLAS workflow management and data management systems, while also offering new setups for interactive, parallel analysis. It underscores pivotal results that enhance the on-site computing model and outlines several R&D projects that have benefited from large-scale, elastic resource provisioning models. Furthermore, this study discusses the impact of cloud-enabled R&D projects in three domains: accelerators and AI/ML, ARM CPUs and columnar data analysis techniques.
Theoretical and experimental study of rigid rapier weft insertion vibration
Authors: Yang Youdong , Zhong Lingfeng , Guo Yuanjing , Sun Yaxin , Fang Gan , Shen Hongbo
Published: June 2024

In this study, vibration equations and models were established utilizing D’Alembert’s principle to address the resonance challenge of a rigid rapier loom operating in high-speed reciprocating motion, and the equations were subsequently solved using Galyokin’s methodology. A laboratory apparatus was constructed to evaluate the findings of the first-order vibration frequency under various rapier extension lengths to validate the precision of the theoretical model, which necessitated recalibration. The accuracy of the theoretical model is confirmed by comparing its predicted results with those of the experiments. In this report, the rigid rapier is further examined in order to correct the trapezoidal acceleration within the perspective of the vibration of the rigid rapier influenced by varied rapier head masses. The results demonstrate that as the mass of the rapier head increases, the maximum apex deviation of the rigid rapier during the weft-induced process also escalates. To enhance the stability of the rigid rapier gravitating process and to provide theoretical guidance and design implications in engineering, the theoretical model of this research can also examine the influence of gravity, rapier material, rapier dimension, and other variables on the oscillation of the rigid rapier gravitation process.