bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HLA‐DQA1*01:03 and DQB1*06:01 are risk factors for severe COVID‐19 pneumonia
Authors: Tanaka Katsushi , Meguro Akira , Hara Yu , Endo Lisa , Izawa Ami , Muraoka Suguru , Kaneko Ayami , Somekawa Kohei , Hirata Momo , Otsu Yukiko , Matsumoto Hiromi , Nagasawa Ryo , Kubo Sosuke , Murohashi Kota , Aoki Ayako , Fujii Hiroaki , Watanabe Keisuke , Horita Nobuyuki , Kato Hideaki , Kobayashi Nobuaki , Takeuchi Ichiro , Nakajima Atsushi , Inoko Hidetoshi , Mizuki Nobuhisa , Kaneko Takeshi
Published: July 2024

The clinical spectrum of COVID‐19 includes a wide range of manifestations, from mild symptoms to severe pneumonia. HLA system plays a pivotal role in immune responses to infectious diseases. The purpose of our study was to investigate the association between HLA and COVID‐19 severity in a Japanese population. The study included 209 Japanese COVID‐19 patients aged ≥20 years. Saliva samples were collected and used to determine the HLA genotype by HLA imputation through genome‐wide association analyses. The association between HLA genotype and COVID‐19 severity was then evaluated. The allele frequency was compared between patients with respiratory failure (severe group: 91 cases) and those without respiratory failure (non‐severe group: 118 cases), categorising the data into three time periods: pre‐Omicron epidemic period, Omicron epidemic period, and total period of this study (from January 2021 to May 2023). In comparing the severe and non‐severe groups, the frequencies of the HLA‐DQA1*01:03 (35.1% vs. 10.5%, odds ratio [OR] = 4.57, corrected p [pc] = 0.041) and ‐DQB1*06:01 (32.4% vs. 7.9%, OR = 5.54, pc = 0.030) alleles were significantly higher in the severe group during the pre‐Omicron epidemic period. During the Omicron epidemic period, HLA‐DQB1*06 (32.4% vs. 7.9%, OR = 5.54, pc = 0.030) was significantly higher in the severe group. During total period of this study, HLA‐DQA1*01:03 (30.2% vs. 14.4%, OR = 2.57, corrected pc = 0.0013) and ‐DQB1*06:01 (44.5% vs. 26.7%, OR = 2.20, pc = 0.013) alleles were significantly higher in the severe group. HLA‐DQB1*06:01 and ‐DQA1*01:03 were in strong linkage disequilibrium with each other (r2 = 0.91) during total period of this study, indicating that these two alleles form a haplotype. The frequency of the HLA‐DQA1*01:03–DQB1*06:01 in the severe group was significantly higher than in the non‐severe group during pre‐Omicron epidemic period (32.4% vs. 7.9%, OR = 5.59, pc = 0.00072), and total period of this study (28.6% vs. 13.1%, OR = 2.63, pc = 0.0013). During Omicron epidemic period, the haplotype did not demonstrate statistical significance, although the odds ratio indicated a value greater 1. Frequencies of the HLA‐DQA1*01:03 and ‐DQB1*06:01 alleles were significantly higher in severe COVID‐19 patients, suggesting that these alleles are risk factors for severe COVID‐19 pneumonia in the Japanese population.
Identification of the new allele HLA‐A*24:632 in a Greek individual using next generation sequencing
Authors: Mantzios Petros , Athanassiades Theofilos , Mantziou Panagiota , Kitsiou Vasiliki , Tsirogianni Alexandra
Published: July 2024

The HLA‐Α*24:632 allele differs from HLA‐A*24:02:01:01 by a single nucleotide substitution in exon 2.
Spatial prediction of poverty in Gauteng province (South Africa) in‐between Censuses using land use datasets
Authors: Katumba Samy , Coetzee Serena , Stein Alfred , Fabris‐Rotelli Inger
Published: July 2024

To realize the first sustainable development goal of ending “poverty in all its forms everywhere,” local governments in South Africa need to implement informed targeted policy interventions based on up‐to‐date data and sound analytics. Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) Censuses reveal the socioeconomic circumstances of people living in South Africa but are only conducted every 10 years. As a result, most analytical studies done in‐between Censuses rely on outdated socioeconomic data. This study demonstrates how poverty levels in one of the provinces of South Africa, Gauteng, can be predicted when up‐to‐date Census datasets are not available. The spatial lag model is used to explain the relationship between the South African Multidimensional Poverty Index (SAMPI) and statistically significant variables extracted from land use datasets (i.e., land areas classified as built‐up, informal, residential, township, and non‐urban), and to ultimately predict the levels of poverty. Out‐of‐sample predicted poverty levels obtained based on the spatial lag model correlate with the actual levels of poverty thereby reflecting known spatial patterns of the levels of poverty in Gauteng province.
Determining the strength of evidence for an association between sexual indicators and risk of acquiring HIV and sexually transmitted infections: Providing evidence for blood donation policy change
Authors: Flannagan Joe , Davison Katy L. , Reynolds Claire , Brailsford Susan R.
Published: July 2024

In 2019 the For The Assessment Of Individualised Risk (FAIR) project began a review of UK blood donor selection policy to determine if a more individualised approach to donor selection could be safely implemented. An evidence base was required to inform selection policy to move from a population to a more individual based policy, specifically what sexual behaviours/indicators should be considered as screening questions to maintain the safety of the blood supply. Eight sexual behaviours/indicators were reviewed: history of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs), chemsex, number of recent partners, condom use, type of sex, sexual health service (SHS) attendance, new sexual partner and exclusivity. We conducted searches in multiple databases to identify literature looking at the association between these behaviours/indicators and HIV/STI acquisition risk. A scoring system to determine strength of evidence was devised and applied to papers that passed screening. Key studies were identified which achieved the maximum score and more in‐depth reviews were conducted for these. We identified 58 studies, including 17 key studies. Strong evidence was found linking a previous bacterial STI, chemsex and increasing numbers of sexual partners to acquisition risk. Condom use, type of sex and new partners were found to have some strength of evidence for this link. SHS attendance and exclusivity had minimal evidence. We recommended that the behaviours/indicators viewed as having strong or some strength of evidence should be considered as screening questions in a more individualised approach to donor selection criteria.
Cutaneous infection due to Mycobacterium marinum: A series of four cases from Kerala, India
Authors: Jagadeesan Soumya , Panicker Vinitha , Kumar Anil , Eapen Malini , Biswas Lalitha , Pillai Jyothish R. , Vijaykumar Divya , Sajini Lekshmi , Venugopal Anjana , Suresh Parasmal , Biswas Raja
Published: July 2024

Mycobacterium marinum is a non‐tuberculous mycobacterium which can be found in naturally occurring, non‐chlorinated water sources and is a known pathogen that affects fish. In humans, M. marinum typically results in cutaneous lesions, it can occasionally lead to more invasive disorders. We discuss four cases of M. marinum‐related cutaneous infections examined in a tertiary care facility. We want to draw attention to the challenges of accurately diagnosing this infection, stress the significance of having a high level of clinical suspicion in order to identify it, and discuss the available treatment choices.
The genome of Vicia sativa ssp. amphicarpa provides insights into the role of terpenoids in antimicrobial resistance within subterranean fruits
Authors: Li Mingyu , Pu Jun , Jia Chenglin , Luo Dong , Zhou Qiang , Fang Xiangling , Nie Bin , Liu Wenxian , Nan Zhibiao , Searle Iain Robert , Fang Longfa , Liu Zhipeng
Published: July 2024

Vicia sativa ssp. amphicarpa is a unique forage crop capable of simultaneously producing fruits above and below ground, representing a typical amphicarpic plant. In this study, we sequenced and assembled seven pseudo‐chromosomes of the genome of V. sativa ssp. amphicarpa (n = 7) yielding a genome size of 1.59 Gb, with a total annotation of 48 932 protein‐coding genes. Long terminal repeat (LTR) elements constituted 62.28% of the genome, significantly contributing to the expansion of genome size. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the divergence between V. sativa ssp. amphicarpa and V. sativa was around 0.88 million years ago (MYA). Comparative transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis of aerial and subterranean pod shells showed biosynthesis of terpenoids in the subterranean pod shells indicating a correlation between the antimicrobial activity of subterranean pod shells and the biosynthesis of terpenoids. Furthermore, functional validation indicates that overexpression of VsTPS5 and VsTPS16 enhances terpenoid biosynthesis for antibacterial activity. Metabolomic analysis suggests the involvement of terpenoids in the antimicrobial properties of subterranean pod shells. Deciphering the genome of V. sativa ssp. amphicarpa elucidated the molecular mechanisms behind the antimicrobial properties of subterranean fruits in amphicarpic plants, providing valuable insights for the study of amphicarpic plant biology.
Blowup algebras of determinantal ideals in prime characteristic
Authors: De Stefani Alessandro , Montaño Jonathan , Núñez‐Betancourt Luis
Published: July 2024

We study when blowup algebras are ‐split or strongly ‐regular. Our main focus is on algebras given by symbolic and ordinary powers of ideals of minors of a generic matrix, a symmetric matrix, and a Hankel matrix. We also study ideals of Pfaffians of a skew‐symmetric matrix. We use these results to obtain bounds on the degrees of the defining equations for these algebras. We also prove that the limit of the normalized regularity of the symbolic powers of these ideals exists and that their depth stabilizes. Finally, we show that, for determinantal ideals, there exists a monomial order for which taking initial ideals commutes with taking symbolic powers. To obtain these results, we develop the notion of ‐split filtrations and symbolic ‐split ideals.
Experiences of parents of teenagers with life-threatening food allergies: a qualitative systematic review protocol
Authors: Dobbin-Williams Karen , Crossman Renee , Swab Michelle
Published: July 2024

Objective:

The objective of this review is to synthesize the experiences of parents of teenagers with life-threatening food allergies.

Introduction:

Life-threatening food allergies are increasing globally, with a significant effect on families, particularly parents. The teenage years are a time of increasing autonomy for young people; however, for parents living with and caring for a teenager with a life-threatening food allergy, this responsibility can have a considerable impact.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will include qualitative studies on the experiences of parents of teenagers with life-threatening food allergies, including, but not limited to, caregiving, parenting, and psychosocial experiences; any day-to-day activities, happenings, thoughts, or feelings related to parenting a teenager with life-threatening food allergies; and the handing over of responsibility for the allergy to the teenager. The review will include studies on participants in the community and in health care settings such as inpatient hospitalizations, outpatient visits, school and sports events, family dinners, restaurants, and travel. Participants from all cultural backgrounds, socio-economic backgrounds, and countries will be included.

Methods:

The review will follow the JBI methodology for systematic reviews of qualitative evidence. The search for published studies will include CINAHL, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO (EBSCOhost); Embase (Ovid); LILACS, IBSS, and Sociological Abstracts (ProQuest). The search for unpublished studies will include ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, Open Access Theses and Dissertations (OATD), Bielefeld Academic Search Engine (BASE), Google, and Google Scholar. Databases will be searched from inception until the present. JBI tools and guidelines will be used to conduct critical appraisal, data extraction, data synthesis, and assessment of confidence in the findings.

Review registration:

PROSPERO CRD42024503698
Association analysis of indel variants and gene expression identifies MDM4 as a novel locus for skeletal muscle hypertrophy and power athlete status
Authors: Kazan Hasan H. , Kasakolu Anıl , Koncagul Seyrani , Ergun Mehmet A. , John George , Sultanov Rinat I. , Zhelankin Andrey V. , Semenova Ekaterina A. , Yusupov Rinat A. , Kulemin Nikolay A. , Larin Andrey K. , Generozov Edward V. , Bulgay Celal , Ahmetov Ildus I.
Published: July 2024

Insertions and deletions (indels) are the second most common type of variation in the human genome. However, limited data on their associations with exercise‐related phenotypes have been documented. The aim of the present study was to examine the association between 18,370 indel variants and power athlete status, followed by additional studies in 357,246 individuals. In the discovery phase, the D allele of the MDM4 gene rs35493922 I/D polymorphism was over‐represented in power athletes compared with control subjects (P = 7.8 × 10−9) and endurance athletes (P = 0.0012). These findings were replicated in independent cohorts, showing a higher D allele frequency in power athletes compared with control subjects (P = 0.016) and endurance athletes (P = 0.031). Furthermore, the D allele was positively associated (P = 0.0013) with greater fat‐free mass in the UK Biobank. MDM4 encodes a protein that inhibits the activity of p53, which induces muscle fibre atrophy. Accordingly, we found that MDM4 expression was significantly higher in the vastus lateralis of power athletes compared with endurance athletes (P = 0.0009) and was positively correlated with the percentage of fast‐twitch muscle fibres (P = 0.0062) and the relative area occupied by fast‐twitch muscle fibres (P = 0.0086). The association between MDM4 gene expression and an increased proportion of fast‐twitch muscle fibres was confirmed in two additional cohorts. Finally, we found that the MDM4 DD genotype was associated with increased MDM4 gene expression in vastus lateralis and greater cross‐sectional area of fast‐twitch muscle fibres. In conclusion, MDM4 is suggested to be a potential regulator of muscle fibre specification and size, with its indel variant being associated with power athlete status.
Development and Analysis of a Novel Bio-Syncretic Parallel Hip Exoskeleton Based on Torque Requirements
Authors: Xu Jilong , Niu Yunzhan , Liu Fucai
Published: July 2024

This study has developed a bio-syncretic parallel hip exoskeleton (BsPH-Exo) to address the misalignment between the rotational center of the hip joint and that of the mechanical joint. BsPH-Exo uses the hip joint as its sole motion constraint to ensure precise alignment with the hip joint center (HJC). To tackle the high costs and technical limitations of traditional methods for measuring HJC coordinates, we propose a new solution: using sensors embedded in BsPH-Exo to gather motion data from both the motors and the human leg, then processing this data through a formula to calculate the exact HJC coordinates. This approach not only simplifies the measurement process but also significantly reduces costs. Through analysis of the workspace, singularity, and maximum torque index, it was found that BsPH-Exo provides a wide range of leg motion while avoiding singularities within the rehabilitation scope. Additionally, the torque law from BsPH-Exo aligns with the torque requirements for human leg movement. In a series of wearable experiments, BsPH-Exo demonstrated its ability to meet rehabilitation training needs and showed excellent controllability in flexion/extension and adduction/abduction directions.
Montañas que danzan: Laboratorios maseual para el mantenimiento del mundo, de Alessandro Questa
Authors: Zamora Corona Alonso Rodrigo
Published: July 2024

La renovación conceptual de la antropología de los pueblos indígenas de México, una labor que ha sido anunciada demasiadas veces pero emprendida muchas menos de lo necesario, ha llegado al punto en el que ya no son suficientes los llamados para introducir a nuestra tradición antropológica paradigmas como la antropología de las ontologías y la cosmopolítica, sino que resulta indispensable la elaboración, desde cero, de monografías etnográficas que den sustento real a dichos llamados y pongan suficientemente en escena dichas ideas, ya sea para sustentarlas, transformarlas o cuestionarlas a través de la experiencia de campo, fundamento inevitable de toda antropología seria. Dentro de la antropología ambiental, una rama de la disciplina que tendrá cada vez más relevancia debido a nuestra presente crisis climática y ecológica, la obra de Alessandro Questa Rebolledo, Montañas que danzan: Laboratorios maseual para el mantenimiento del mundo, se presenta como un referente pionero para el estudio de las consecuencias del llamado Antropoceno en la vida de los pueblos indígenas de México.
The role of the Silberstein/Thomas/Wigner-rotation in the rod and slit paradox
Authors: Schmidt Mads Vestergaard , Schoedl Erich
Published: July 2024

The rod and slit paradox, as first proposed by Shaw, is revisited. In this paradox, a rod of rest length l0 moves parallel to the horizontal x-axis. Simultaneously, a thin sheet parallel to the horizontal xz-plane with a rod-shaped slit of rest length d<l0 moves along the vertical y-axis. The rod passes through the slit due to relativistic effects. Earlier papers do not link the thought experiment to the Silberstein/Thomas/Wigner-rotation (STW-rotation), which is essential to its outcome. In this paper, the role of the STW-rotation is discussed, and additional clarifying figures are provided. Some misleading aspects of earlier treatments are pointed out and corrected.
Athletic Training Students’ Use of Evidence-Based Practice Professional Behaviors During Clinical Experiences: A Report From the Association for Athletic Training Education Research Network
Authors: Welch Bacon Cailee E. , Cavallario Julie M. , Walker Stacy E. , Bay R. Curtis , Van Lunen Bonnie L.
Published: July 2024

With the incorporation of evidence-based practice (EBP) during patient care as a curricular content standard, professional programs must prepare athletic training students (ATSs) for the application of EBP during the delivery of patient care. We aimed to examine ATSs’ implementation of professional behaviors associated with EBP during patient encounters (PEs). Through a multisite panel design, we tracked numerous factors associated with PEs experienced by 363 ATSs of 12 professional athletic training programs. Generalized estimating equation models were used to analyze the likelihood that students included EBP behaviors during 30,522 PEs. Clinical site type (p < .001), student role (p < .001), and encounter length (p < .001) were associated with all three EBP professional behaviors while clinical site type (p < .001) was also associated with whether the ATS asked a question of a clinician, including their preceptor. Program administrators seeking to promote the greatest opportunities for ATSs to implement EBP during patient care should seek clinic-based or other nonacademic site types that promote longer PEs in which students can perform or assist their preceptor.
Kinetics, Kinematics, and Muscle Activity Patterns During Back Squat With Different Contributions of Elastic Resistance
Authors: Shi Lin , Lyons Mark , Duncan Michael , Chen Sitong , Han Dong , Yang Chengbo
Published: July 2024

Purpose: Performing back squats with elastic bands has been widely used in resistance training. Although research demonstrated greater training effects obtained from adding elastic bands to the back squat, little is known regarding the optimal elastic resistance and how it affects neuromuscular performance. This study aimed to compare the force, velocity, power, and muscle activity during back squats with different contributions of elastic resistance. Methods: Thirteen basketball players performed 3 repetitions of the back squat at 85% of 1-repetition maximum across 4 conditions: (1) total load from free weight and (2) 20%, (3) 30%, and (4) 40% of the total load from elastic band and the remaining load from free weight. The eccentric and concentric phases of the back squat were divided into upper, middle, and bottom phases. Results: In the eccentric phase, mean velocity progressively increased with increasing elastic resistance, and muscle activity of the vastus medialis and rectus femoris significantly increased with the largest elastic resistance in the upper phase (P ≤ .036). In the concentric phase, mean power (P ≤ .021) and rate of force development (P ≤ .002) significantly increased with increasing elastic resistance. Furthermore, muscle activity of the vastus lateralis and vastus medialis significantly improved with the largest elastic resistance in the upper phases (P ≤ .021). Conclusion: Velocity, power, rate of force development, and selective muscle activity increased as the elastic resistance increased in different phases during the back-squat exercise.
How to Equalize High- and Low-Intensity Endurance Exercise Dose
Authors: Matomäki Pekka , Nuuttila Olli-Pekka , Heinonen Olli J. , Kyröläinen Heikki , Nummela Ari
Published: July 2024

Purpose: Without appropriate standardization of exercise doses, comparing high- (HI) and low-intensity (LI) training outcomes might become a matter of speculation. In athletic preparation, proper quantification ensures an optimized stress-to-recovery ratio. This review aims to compare HI and LI doses by estimating theoretically the conversion ratio, 1:x, between HI and LI: How many minutes, x, of LI are equivalent to 1 minute of HI using various quantification methods? A scrutinized analysis on how the dose increases in relation to duration and intensity was also made. Analysis: An estimation was conducted across 4 categories encompassing 10 different approaches: (1) “arbitrary” methods, (2) physiological and perceptual measurements during exercise, (3) postexercise measurements, and comparison to (4a) acute and (4b) chronic intensity-related maximum dose. The first 2 categories provide the most conservative estimation for the HI:LI ratio (1:1.5–1:10), and the third, slightly higher (1:4–1:11). The category (4a) provides the highest estimation (1:52+) and (4b) suggests 1:10 to 1:20. The exercise dose in the majority of the approaches increase linearly in relation to duration and exponentially in relation to intensity. Conclusions: As dose estimations provide divergent evaluations of the HI:LI ratio, the choice of metric will have a large impact on the research designs, results, and interpretations. Therefore, researchers should familiarize themselves with the foundations and weaknesses of their metrics and justify their choice. Last, the linear relationship between duration and exercise dose is in many cases assumed rather than thoroughly tested, and its use should be subjected to closer scrutiny.
Coaches’ Provision of Structure for Players’ Competence Development: Perspectives of Professional Soccer Coaches and Players in Norway
Authors: Nicol Kevin , Allen Justine B.
Published: July 2024

Developing athletes’ actual and perceived competence is critical to enhancing performance and considered central to coaching. According to self-determination theory, the provision of competence-supportive structure is critical for psychological need satisfaction, optimal motivation, and well-being. Coaches use of structure such as providing clear expectations, instructional guidance, and feedback are well-established coaching practices; however, little is known about how, and to what extent, these types of structure support or thwart players’ perceptions of competence, particularly in high-performance contexts. Five head coaches working in the highest soccer league in Norway, and three players from each of the participating head coach’s squads (N = 15) participated in semistructured interviews. Through abductive analysis, we generated five themes: structure to promote competence; coaching for competence development; relatedness support as a foundation for effective structure; freedom within structure is useful; and shared ownership of, and with, structure. The findings provide evidence that professional soccer coaches and players in this study desire and deliver structure. It is provided in an autonomy-supportive way and built on a relatedness supportive foundation. This study contributes new insight into the importance of competence-supportive structure in coaching, which coaches and those supporting the development of coaches may find useful.
A Conceptual Primer on the Potential of Adaptive Policies to Reduce Physical Inactivity
Authors: Milton Karen , Rutter Harry , Koorts Harriet , Garcia Leandro
Published: July 2024

Background: Despite the existence of physical activity policies across many countries, insufficient physical activity remains a major global public health problem. Physical inactivity is an emergent feature of complex systems; it results from a wide range of factors at multiple levels that interact to influence behavior. Traditional approaches to public policy often fail within complex systems, largely due to unpredictability in how the system will respond. Adaptive policies, which are designed to allow for uncertainty about future system behavior and to change over time, may offer a promising solution. In this paper, we introduce the concept of adaptive policies and illustrate how this innovative approach to policy making may be beneficial for reducing physical inactivity. Design: Drawing on existing literature and guiding principles for policy making, we provide 3 examples to illustrate how the concept of adaptive policies can be applied to address physical inactivity. Discussion: The examples illustrate how changes to the way policies and interventions are developed, implemented, and evaluated could help to overcome some of the limitations in existing practices. A key challenge will be engaging policymakers to take a broader perspective of the physical activity system, develop policies that are designed to be adaptable across a range of different future scenarios, and embrace uncertainty and long-term adaptability. Conclusion: Adaptive policies may support decision makers globally to achieve the widespread and sustained changes necessary to increase population levels of physical activity.
A Proposal for Improving Student-Athletes’ Mental Health Through Leadership Training
Authors: Gregg Elizabeth A. , Ohlson Matthew , Dominguez Ana Roman , Steele Sydnie
Published: July 2024

Student-athletes face a variety of stressors and are at risk for mental health issues, particularly with “name, image, and likeness” issues creating new pressures and distractions. This article outlines a leadership development program geared toward student-athletes and the enrichment of their mental health. The courricular content described within includes self-development material delivered by faculty in a team context. Early findings indicate that the Positive Leadership Program appears to make impactful improvements in mental health outcomes and can be introduced into sport management curricula.
Neisserial adhesin A (NadA) binds human Siglec-5 and Siglec-14 with high affinity and promotes bacterial adhesion/invasion
Authors: Benucci Barbara , Spinello Zaira , Calvaresi Valeria , Viviani Viola , Perrotta Andrea , Faleri Agnese , Utrio Lanfaloni Sabrina , Pansegrau Werner , d’Alterio Liana , Bartolini Erika , Pinzuti Irene , Sampieri Katia , Giordano Anna , Rappuoli Rino , Pizza Mariagrazia , Masignani Vega , Norais Nathalie , Maione Domenico , Merola Marcello
Published: July 2024

Neisserial adhesin A (NadA) is a meningococcal surface protein included as recombinant antigen in 4CMenB, a protein-based vaccine able to induce protective immune responses against
Neisseria meningitidis
serogroup B (MenB). Although NadA is involved in the adhesion/invasion of epithelial cells and human myeloid cells, its function in meningococcal physiology is still poorly understood. To clarify the role played by NadA in the host-pathogen interaction, we sought to identify its cellular receptors. We screened a protein microarray encompassing 2,846 human and 297 mouse surface/secreted recombinant proteins using recombinant NadA as probe. Efficient NadA binding was revealed on the paired sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-type lectins receptors 5 and 14 (Siglec-5 and Siglec-14), but not on Siglec-9 therein used as control. The interaction was confirmed by biochemical tools with the determination of the
K

D

value in the order of nanomolar and the identification of the NadA binding site by hydrogen-deuterium exchange coupled to mass spectrometry. The N-terminal domain of the Siglec-5 that recognizes the sialic acid was identified as the NadA binding domain. Intriguingly, exogenously added recombinant soluble Siglecs, including Siglec-9, were found to decorate
N. meningitidis
surface in a NadA-dependent manner. However, Siglec-5 and Siglec-14 transiently expressed in CHO-K1 cells endorsed NadA binding and increased
N. meningitidis
adhesion/invasion while Siglec-9 did not. Taken together, Siglec-5 and Siglec-14 satisfy all features of NadA receptors suggesting a possible role of NadA in the acute meningococcal infection.

IMPORTANCE

Bacteria have developed several strategies for cell colonization and immune evasion. Knowledge of the host and pathogen factors involved in these mechanisms is crucial to build efficacious countermoves. Neisserial adhesin A (NadA) is a meningococcal surface protein included in the anti-meningococcus B vaccine 4CMenB, which mediates adhesion to and invasion of epithelial cells. Although NadA has been shown to bind to other cell types, like myeloid and endothelial cells, it still remains orphan of a defined host receptor. We have identified two strong NadA interactors, Siglec-5 and Siglec-14, which are mainly expressed on myeloid cells. This showcases that NadA is an additional and key player among the
Neisseria meningitidis
factors targeting immune cells. We thus provide novel insights on the strategies exploited by
N. meningitidis
during the infection process, which can progress to a severe illness and death.
Chlamydia
-containing spheres are a novel and predominant form of egress by the pathogen
Chlamydia psittaci
Authors: Scholz Jana , Holland Gudrun , Laue Michael , Banhart Sebastian , Heuer Dagmar
Published: July 2024

The egress of intracellular bacteria from host cells and cellular tissues is a critical process during the infection cycle. This process is essential for bacteria to spread inside the host and can influence the outcome of an infection. For the obligate intracellular Gram-negative zoonotic bacterium
Chlamydia psittaci,
little is known about the mechanisms resulting in bacterial egress from the infected epithelium. Here, we describe and characterize
Chlamydia
-containing spheres (CCSs), a novel and predominant type of non-lytic egress utilized by
Chlamydia
spp. CCSs are spherical, low-phase contrast structures surrounded by a phosphatidylserine-exposing membrane with specific barrier functions. They contain infectious progeny and morphologically impaired cellular organelles. CCS formation is a sequential process starting with the proteolytic cleavage of a DEVD tetrapeptide-containing substrate that can be detected inside the chlamydial inclusions, followed by an increase in the intracellular calcium concentration of the infected cell. Subsequently, blebbing of the plasma membrane begins, the inclusion membrane destabilizes, and the proteolytic cleavage of a DEVD-containing substrate increases rapidly within the whole infected cell. Finally, infected, blebbing cells detach and leave the monolayer, thereby forming CCS. This sequence of events is unique for chlamydial CCS formation and fundamentally different from previously described
Chlamydia
egress pathways. Thus, CCS formation represents a major, previously uncharacterized egress pathway for intracellular pathogens that could be linked to
Chlamydia
biology in general and might influence the infection outcome
in vivo
.

IMPORTANCE

Host cell egress is essential for intracellular pathogens to spread within an organism and for host-to-host transmission. Here, we characterize
Chlamydia
-containing sphere (CCS) formation as a novel and predominant non-lytic egress pathway of the intracellular pathogens
Chlamydia psittaci
and
Chlamydia trachomatis
. CCS formation is fundamentally different from extrusion formation, the previously described non-lytic egress pathway of
C. trachomatis
. CCS formation is a unique sequential process, including proteolytic activity, followed by an increase in intracellular calcium concentration, inclusion membrane destabilization, plasma membrane blebbing, and the final detachment of a whole phosphatidylserine-exposing former host cell. Thus, CCS formation represents an important and previously uncharacterized egress pathway for intracellular pathogens that could possibly be linked to
Chlamydia
biology, including host tropism, protection from host cell defense mechanisms, or bacterial pathogenicity.
Membrane potential dynamics unveil the promise of bioelectrical antimicrobial susceptibility Testing (BeAST) for anti-fungal screening
Authors: de Souza-Guerreiro Tailise Carolina , Huan Bacellar Letícia , da Costa Thyerre Santana , Edwards Conor L. A. , Tasic Ljubica , Asally Munehiro
Published: July 2024

Membrane potential is a useful marker for antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) due to its fundamental roles in cell function. However, the difficulties associated with measuring the membrane potential in microbes restrict its broad application. In this study, we present bioelectrical AST (BeAST) using the model fungus
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
. Using fluorescent indicators [DiBAC4(3), ThT, and TMRM], we measured plasma and mitochondrial membrane-potential dynamics upon electric stimulation. We find that a 2.5 second electric stimulation induces hyperpolarization of plasma membrane lasting 20 minutes in vital
S. cerevisiae
, but depolarization in inhibited cells. The numerical simulation of FitzHugh-Nagumo model successfully recapitulates vitality-dependent dynamics. The model also suggests that the magnitude of plasma-membrane potential dynamics (PMD) correlates with the degree of inhibition. To test this prediction and to examine if BeAST can be used for assessing novel anti-fungal compounds, we treat cells with biogenic silver nanoparticles (bioAgNPs) synthesized using orange fruit flavonoids and Fusarium oxysporum. Comparing BeAST with optical density assay alongside various stressors, we show that PMD correlates with the magnitude of growth inhibitions. These results suggest that BeAST holds promise for screening anti-fungal compounds, offering a valuable approach to tackling antimicrobial resistance.

IMPORTANCE

Rapid assessment of the efficacy of antimicrobials is important for optimizing treatments, avoiding misuse and facilitating the screening of new antimicrobials. The need for rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) is growing with the rise of antimicrobial resistance. Here, we present bioelectrical AST (BeAST). Combining time-lapse microscopy and mathematical modeling, we show that electrically induced membrane potential dynamics of yeast cells correspond to the strength of growth inhibition. Furthermore, we demonstrate the utility of BeAST for assessing antimicrobial activities of novel compounds using biogenic silver nanoparticles.
Role of the antiparallel double-stranded filament form of FtsA in activating the
Escherichia coli
divisome
Authors: Perkins Abbigale , Mounange-Badimi Mwidy Sava , Margolin William
Published: July 2024

The actin-like FtsA protein is essential for function of the cell division machinery, or divisome, in many bacteria including
Escherichia coli
. Previous
in vitro
studies demonstrated that purified wild-type FtsA assembles into closed mini-rings on lipid membranes, but oligomeric variants of FtsA such as FtsA
R286W
and FtsA
G50E
can bypass certain divisome defects and form arc and double-stranded (DS) oligomeric states, respectively, which may reflect conversion of an inactive to an active form of FtsA. However, it remains unproven which oligomeric forms of FtsA are responsible for assembling and activating the divisome. Here, we used an
in vivo
crosslinking assay for FtsA DS filaments to show that they largely depend on proper divisome assembly and are prevalent at later stages of cell division. We also used a previously reported variant that fails to assemble DS filaments, FtsA
M96E R153D
, to investigate the roles of FtsA oligomeric states in divisome assembly and activation. We show that FtsA
M96E R153D
cannot form DS filaments
in vivo
, fails to replace native FtsA, and confers a dominant negative phenotype, underscoring the importance of the DS filament stage for FtsA function. Surprisingly, however, activation of the divisome through the
ftsL
* or
ftsW
* superfission alleles suppressed the dominant negative phenotype and rescued the functionality of FtsA
M96E R153D
. Our results suggest that FtsA DS filaments are needed for divisome activation once it is assembled, but they are not essential for divisome assembly or guiding septum synthesis.

IMPORTANCE

Cell division is fundamental for cellular duplication. In simple cells like
Escherichia coli
bacteria, the actin homolog FtsA is essential for cell division and assembles into a variety of protein filaments at the cytoplasmic membrane. These filaments not only help tether polymers of the tubulin-like FtsZ to the membrane at early stages of cell division but also play crucial roles in recruiting other cell division proteins to a complex called the divisome. Once assembled, the
E. coli
divisome subsequently activates synthesis of the division septum that splits the cell in two. One recently discovered oligomeric conformation of FtsA is an antiparallel double-stranded filament. Using a combination of
in vivo
crosslinking and genetics, we provide evidence suggesting that these FtsA double filaments have a crucial role in activating the septum synthesis enzymes.
Versatile roles of protein flavinylation in bacterial extracyotosolic electron transfer
Authors: Huang Shuo , Méheust Raphaël , Barquera Blanca , Light Samuel H.
Published: July 2024

Bacteria perform diverse redox chemistries in the periplasm, cell wall, and extracellular space. Electron transfer for these extracytosolic activities is frequently mediated by proteins with covalently bound flavins, which are attached through post-translational flavinylation by the enzyme ApbE. Despite the significance of protein flavinylation to bacterial physiology, the basis and function of this modification remain unresolved. Here we apply genomic context analyses, computational structural biology, and biochemical studies to address the role of ApbE flavinylation throughout bacterial life. We identify ApbE flavinylation sites within structurally diverse protein domains and show that multi-flavinylated proteins, which may mediate longer distance electron transfer via multiple flavinylation sites, exhibit substantial structural heterogeneity. We identify two novel classes of flavinylation substrates that are related to characterized proteins with non-covalently bound flavins, providing evidence that protein flavinylation can evolve from a non-covalent flavoprotein precursor. We further find a group of structurally related flavinylation-associated cytochromes, including those with the domain of unknown function DUF4405, that presumably mediate electron transfer in the cytoplasmic membrane. DUF4405 homologs are widespread in bacteria and related to ferrosome iron storage organelle proteins that may facilitate iron redox cycling within ferrosomes. These studies reveal a complex basis for flavinylated electron transfer and highlight the discovery power of coupling comparative genomic analyses with high-quality structural models.

IMPORTANCE

This study explores the mechanisms bacteria use to transfer electrons outside the cytosol, a fundamental process involved in energy metabolism and environmental interactions. Central to this process is a phenomenon known as flavinylation, where a flavin molecule—a compound related to vitamin B2—is covalently attached to proteins, to enable electron transfer. We employed advanced genomic analysis and computational modeling to explore how this modification occurs across different bacterial species. Our findings uncover new types of proteins that undergo this modification and highlight the diversity and complexity of bacterial electron transfer mechanisms. This research broadens our understanding of bacterial physiology and informs potential biotechnological applications that rely on microbial electron transfer, including bioenergy production and bioremediation.
Swampland program for hypergeometric inflation scenarios in rescaled gravity
Authors: Baddis Saad Eddine , Belhaj Adil
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we investigate hypergeometric stringy corrections in the swampland program for rescaled gravity. Precisely, we study inflationary models from Gauss–Bonnet hypergeometric scalar couplings via the falsification scenario. We first derive generalized exponential potentials from such hypergeometric behaviors. Then, we examine certain selected scalar potentials by computing the relevant cosmological quantities using the slow-roll mechanism. Choosing specific points in the corresponding moduli space, we provide viable findings corroborated by Planck observational data and checked by the swampland criteria.
Quintessential f(G) gravity with statistically fitting of H(z)
Authors: Shekh S. H. , Husain A. , Chaudhary H. , Samdurkar S. W. , Myrzakulov N.
Published: July 2024

Inspired by high-energy physics and by considering standard gravity theory as the low-energy limit of quantum theory, the modification of general relativity as [Formula: see text] has been proposed. This paper is dedicated to investigating the cosmological model of modified Gauss–Bonnet gravity in four dimensions. General field equations for the four-dimensional Friedmann– Robertson–Walker metric are given in detail. Also, it is well known that Hubble parameter [Formula: see text] measurements are helpful for the inference of cosmological model parameters. We try to explain the MCMC statistical approach used to calculate Hubble’s parameter. The resulting form of [Formula: see text] was limited using Cosmic Chronometric data, Standard Candles SN Ia from Pantheon, and Baryon Acoustic Oscillations to obtain the best match values by using the regression equation. Finally, to examine the late-time dynamics of our Universe, the behavior of physical and kinematic variables like the deceleration parameter [Formula: see text], State-finder parameters [Formula: see text], diagnostic parameter ([Formula: see text]), equation of state parameter as well as the behavior of energy conditions versus redshift with the parameter values are presented.
Reconsidering bulk viscosity in Brans–Dicke theory
Authors: Devi Kanchan , Kumar Pankaj
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we reconsider the concept of bulk viscosity in Brans–Dicke theory to study accelerated expansion of the universe in a flat Friedmann–Robertson–Walker metric. In recent works on bulk viscosity in Brans–Dicke theory, the power-law form of Brans–Dicke scalar field has been taken to explain recent phase transition of the universe, however, power-law form confronts constant deceleration parameter problem. Therefore, we consider recently proposed well-motivated logarithmic form of Brans–Dicke scalar field to discuss bulk viscous model in Brans–Dicke theory. We obtain the values of deceleration parameter and equation of state parameter for the model, and plot their graphs against the redshift parameter z. The plots show that the model is able to explain the recent phase transition of the universe and equation of state parameter shows the behavior of dark energy. Further, we apply two important analysis, namely, [Formula: see text] analysis and thermodynamic analysis to examine our model. The [Formula: see text] analysis shows that our model belong to thawing region and shows similarities with quintessence model. All the trajectories start from the point [Formula: see text] with different negative values of w having quintessence behavior. The thermodynamic analysis shows that the model satisfies generalized second law of thermodynamics.
Effect of magnetic field and slip velocity on the performance of bearings lubricated by couple stress fluid on long cylinder and infinite plate — A theoretical analysis
Authors: Vinutha R. , Hanumagowda B. N. , Vasanth K. R.
Published: July 2024

In this research, the combined effect of magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) and slip velocity on squeeze film lubrication of long cylinders and infinite plates with couple stress fluid has been studied. Combining the Stokes couple stress theory and the Lorentz force theory yields analytical solutions for the modified Reynolds equation. Using the Reynolds equation, the mathematical expressions for squeeze film pressure, load-carrying capacity and squeeze film time are obtained. The pressure, load carrying capacity and squeeze film time increase with the combined effect of MHD, couple stress fluids and slip velocity.
Upper body posture changes during sitting in female office workers with lower crossed syndrome
Authors: Puagprakong Pailin , Kanjanasilanont Aris , Brady Wannaporn S. , Sornkaew Kanphajee
Published: July 2024

Background/Objective: Office workers are exposed to high levels of sedentary time. This sedentary time may have impacts on office workers which affect the normal movement patterns of sitting position caused by muscle tightness and weakness. The aims of this study were to investigate postural changes in lower crossed syndrome (LCS) on a head tilt angle (HTA), craniovertebral angle (CVA), sagittal shoulder angle (SSA), and trunk flexion angle (TFA) during 30 min sitting in female office workers.

Methods: Fifty-four office workers who use computer for at least 4 h/day, work for at least 5 years were recruited. All subjects were evaluated their posture, muscle length and power and assigned into three groups: healty group ([Formula: see text]), LCS type A ([Formula: see text]), and LCS type B ([Formula: see text]). Testing posture was 30[Formula: see text]min sitting at computer workstation and typing on standardized with video record. Then three pictures were captured at four points of time from VDO records. All angles were measured two-way mixed ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey test was used to analyse the data.

Results: Subjects with LCS type B have less CVA, SSA, and TFA than healthy and participants with LCS type A significantly during sitting at 0, 10, 20 and 30[Formula: see text]min. There was no significant difference in HTA among the three groups.

Conclusion: Subjects with LCS type B showed significant the upper body posture changes compared with other groups.
New malacostracan crustaceans from the Lower Coal Measures (Langsettian, Carboniferous) north Lanarkshire, Scotland
Authors: Clark Neil D. L.
Published: July 2024

Two malacostracan crustacean genera are described from the Langsettian (upper part of the Bashkirian, Lower Pennsylvanian) of the Scottish coal fields in the Midland Valley of Scotland. One is the youngest occurrence of
Tealliocaris
Peach, 1908
and was found at Polkemmet Colliery near Whitburn, West Lothian. It is recognized as a new species,
Tealliocaris elliotti
, based on the presence of eight spines on its scaphocerites and lateral convergent carinae of the telson. The other crustacean is a unique specimen from the Ardenrigg Colliery at Wester Bracco, North Lanarkshire in similar shales of Langsettian age. There are no distinguishing characters preserved that would identify it as a new species, but it can be placed in
Palaeocaris
Meek and Worthen, 1865
based on the well-preserved features of the tail fan. This is the first record of this genus in Scotland, although specimens of
Minicaris brandi
Schram, 1979
from the Namurian (Serpukhovian, Upper Mississippian) shales of Bearsden are now here also considered to be a species of
Palaeocaris
.
Science Needs You: Mobilizing for Diversity in Award Recognition
Authors: Novoa-Monsalve Elizabeth , Patterson David , Ludi Stephanie , Acuna Daniel E.
Published: July 2024

Examining the examiners.