bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Shape Optimization of a Threaded Plastic Bottle-Cap Connection by FEM Based on Measured Non-Linear Material Law
Authors: Elinger István , Váradi Károly 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
This paper presents an effort to minimise the mass of a threaded plastic cap of a plastic bottle while the load carrying capacity is kept on the same level or it is also reduced. Finite Element Analysis with axisymmetric and contact element is used to evaluate the weak points of the plastic bottle and plastic cap connection. To obtain more realistic results non-linear elastic material law, the friction coefficient and the loosening torque were determined through tests. By theoretical investigation the number of mated threads was reduced and the related outer geometric shape was also modified producing all together about 39% reduction in mass and parallel to it about 10% increase in the load carrying capacity. Results of this theoretical investigation are in close correlation with everyday experiences as the attached photo of a typically damaged cap testifies it.
“I Use Technologies Strategically With My Family Now”: Practices That Parents Value to Promote Physical Activity in Young Children
Authors: Zabatiero Juliana , Stone Laura , McCormack Derek , Zarb David , Nolan Andrea , Highfield Kate , Skouteris Helen , Edwards Susan , Straker Leon 
Published: September 2024

Background: Although widely accessible digital technology (DT) provided multiple opportunities for young children’s play, learning, and development, it also raised parents and professionals’ concerns regarding its impact on children’s physical activity. This study aimed to identify practices involving DT that were valued by parents in helping their young child to be physically active. Methods: Participants were parents of ambulatory young children (less than 5 y of age) engaged with a playgroup. The study involved representatives from 3 service organizations, who compiled a list of digital resources related to using DT to promote children’s physical activity that were suitable to be shared and trialed by parents and young children. During a pretrial workshop, researchers, participants, and organization representatives collaboratively developed the intervention, which involved the delivery of selected resources by weekly email, over a 12-week period. Participants provided weekly feedback about their experiences and participated in a postintervention semistructured qualitative interview. Results: Thirteen families, with children aged between 15 and 36 months, completed the trial. Participants reported several valued practices to promote their children’s physical activity, including those where the child was active while engaging with DT, where child engagement with DT acted as a prompt for later physical activity, where DT assisted parents in planning physical activity, where DT assisted parents in integrating movement with learning and play, and where DT was used to reinforce the child’s enthusiasm for physical activity. Conclusions: Parents reported several valued practices where children were physically active, rather than sedentary, while using digital technology.
mRNA localization and thylakoid protein biogenesis in the filamentous heterocyst-forming cyanobacterium
Anabaena
sp. PCC 7120
Authors: Wang Kexin , Mahbub Moontaha , Mastroianni Giulia , Valladares Ana , Mullineaux Conrad W. 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Heterocyst-forming cyanobacteria such as
Anabaena
(
Nostoc
) sp. PCC 7120 exhibit extensive remodeling of their thylakoid membranes during heterocyst differentiation. Here we investigate the sites of translation of thylakoid membrane proteins in
Anabaena
vegetative cells and developing heterocysts, using mRNA fluorescent
in situ
hybridization (FISH) to detect the location of specific mRNA species. We probed mRNAs encoding reaction center core components and the heterocyst-specific terminal oxidases Cox2 and Cox3. As in unicellular cyanobacteria, the mRNAs encoding membrane-integral thylakoid proteins are concentrated in patches at the inner face of the thylakoid membrane system, adjacent to the central cytoplasm. These patches mark the putative sites of translation and membrane insertion of these proteins. Oxidase activity in mature heterocysts is concentrated in the specialized “honeycomb” regions of the thylakoid membranes close to the cell poles. However,
cox2
and
cox3
mRNAs remain evenly distributed over the inner face of the thylakoids, implying that oxidase proteins migrate extensively after translation to reach their destination in the honeycomb membranes. The RNA-binding protein RbpG is the closest
Anabaena
homolog of Rbp3 in the unicellular cyanobacterium
Synechocystis
sp. PCC 6803, which we previously showed to be crucial for the correct location of photosynthetic mRNAs. An
rbpG
null mutant shows decreased cellular levels of photosynthetic mRNAs and photosynthetic complexes, coupled with perturbations to thylakoid membrane organization and lower efficiency of the Photosystem II repair cycle. This suggests that the chaperoning of photosynthetic mRNAs by RbpG is important for the correct coordination of thylakoid protein translation and assembly.

IMPORTANCE

Cyanobacteria have a complex thylakoid membrane system which is the site of the photosynthetic light reactions as well as most of the respiratory activity in the cell. Protein targeting to the thylakoids and the spatial organization of thylakoid protein biogenesis remain poorly understood. Further complexity is found in some filamentous cyanobacteria that produce heterocysts, specialized nitrogen-fixing cells in which the thylakoid membranes undergo extensive remodeling. Here we probe mRNA locations to reveal thylakoid translation sites in a heterocyst-forming cyanobacterium. We identify an RNA-binding protein important for the correct co-ordination of thylakoid protein translation and assembly, and we demonstrate the effectiveness of mRNA fluorescent
in situ
hybridization (FISH) as a way to probe cell-specific gene expression in multicellular cyanobacteria.
Architectural organization and
in situ
fusion protein structure of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus
Authors: Kang Joon S. , Zhou Kang , Wang Hui , Tang Sijia , Lyles Kristin Van Mouwerik , Luo Ming , Zhou Z. Hong 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Arenaviruses exist globally and can cause hemorrhagic fever and neurological diseases, exemplified by the zoonotic pathogen lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV). The structures of individual LCMV proteins or their fragments have been reported, but the architectural organization and the nucleocapsid assembly mechanism remain elusive. Importantly, the
in situ
structure of the arenavirus fusion protein complex (glycoprotein complex, GPC) as present on the virion prior to fusion, particularly with its integral stable signal peptide (SSP), has not been shown, hindering efforts such as structure-based vaccine design. Here, we have determined the
in situ
structure of LCMV proteins and their architectural organization in the virion by cryogenic electron tomography. The tomograms reveal the global distribution of GPC, matrix protein Z, and the contact points between the viral envelope and nucleocapsid. Subtomogram averaging yielded the
in situ
structure of the mature GPC with its transmembrane domain intact, revealing the GP2-SSP interface and the endodomain of GP2. The number of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase L molecules packaged within each virion varies, adding new perspectives to the infection mechanism. Together, these results delineate the structural organization of LCMV and offer new insights into its mechanism of LCMV maturation, egress, and cell entry.

IMPORTANCE

The impact of COVID-19 on public health has highlighted the importance of understanding zoonotic pathogens. Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) is a rodent-borne human pathogen that causes hemorrhagic fever. Herein, we describe the
in situ
structure of LCMV proteins and their architectural organization on the viral envelope and around the nucleocapsid. The virion structure reveals the distribution of the surface glycoprotein complex (GPC) and the contact points between the viral envelope and the underlying matrix protein, as well as the association with the nucleocapsid. The morphology and sizes of virions, as well as the number of RNA polymerase L inside each virion vary greatly, highlighting the fast-changing nature of LCMV. A comparison between the
in situ
GPC trimeric structure and prior ectodomain structures identifies the transmembrane and endo domains of GPC and key interactions among its subunits. The work provides new insights into LCMV assembly and informs future structure-guided vaccine design.
The GPI sidechain of
Toxoplasma gondii
inhibits parasite pathogenesis
Authors: Alvarez Julia A. , Gas-Pascual Elisabet , Malhi Sahil , Sánchez-Arcila Juan C. , Njume Ferdinand Ngale , van der Wel Hanke , Zhao Yanlin , García-López Laura , Ceron Gabriella , Posada Jasmine , Souza Scott P. , Yap George S. , West Christopher M. , Jensen Kirk D. C. 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Glycosylphosphatidylinositols (GPIs) are highly conserved anchors for eukaryotic cell surface proteins. The apicomplexan parasite,
Toxoplasma gondii
, is a widespread intracellular parasite of warm-blooded animals whose plasma membrane is covered with GPI-anchored proteins, and free GPIs called GIPLs. While the glycan portion is conserved, species differ in sidechains added to the triple mannose core. The functional significance of the Glcα1,4GalNAcβ1- sidechain reported in
Toxoplasma gondii
has remained largely unknown without understanding its biosynthesis. Here we identify and disrupt two glycosyltransferase genes and confirm their respective roles by serology and mass spectrometry. Parasites lacking the sidechain on account of deletion of the first glycosyltransferase, PIGJ, exhibit increased virulence during primary and secondary infections, suggesting it is an important pathogenesis factor. Cytokine responses, antibody recognition of GPI-anchored SAGs, and complement binding to PIGJ mutants are intact. By contrast, the scavenger receptor CD36 shows enhanced binding to PIGJ mutants, potentially explaining a subtle tropism for macrophages detected early in infection. Galectin-3, which binds GIPLs, exhibits an enhancement of binding to PIGJ mutants, and the protection of galectin-3 knockout mice from lethality suggests that Δ
pigj
parasite virulence in this context is sidechain dependent. Parasite numbers are not affected by Δ
pigj
early in the infection in wild-type mice, suggesting a breakdown of tolerance. However, increased tissue cysts in the brains of mice infected with Δ
pigj
parasites indicate an advantage over wild-type strains. Thus, the GPI sidechain of
T. gondii
plays a crucial and diverse role in regulating disease outcomes in the infected host.

IMPORTANCE

The functional significance of sidechain modifications to the glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor in parasites has yet to be determined because the glycosyltransferases responsible for these modifications have not been identified. Here we present identification and characterization of both
Toxoplasmsa gondii
GPI sidechain-modifying glycosyltransferases. Removal of the glycosyltransferase that adds the first GalNAc to the sidechain results in parasites without a sidechain on the GPI, and increased host susceptibility to infection. Loss of the second glycosyltransferase results in a sidechain with GalNAc alone, and no glucose added, and has negligible effect on disease outcomes. This indicates GPI sidechains are fundamental to host-parasite interactions.
Fine-scale genomic analysis of the tree endophyte
Annulohypoxylon
sp. FPYF3050 producing monoterpene 1,8-cineole
Authors: Zhou Shuang , Dou Guiming , Yan Dong-Hui 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

1,8-Cineole has a potential in control crop pests and biofuels. The endophytic fungus,
Annulohypoxylon
sp. FPYF3050 (
Neolitsea pulchella
), can produce over 90% 1,8-cineole of relative area in its natural volatiles, possessed nematicide properties. The annotated genome of this strain will provide insights into potential application in biofumigation and terpene-based advanced biofuel.
Polymicrobial methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
bloodstream infections
Authors: Escalona Angelica , Hayashi Emi , Evans Michelle , van Bakel Harm , Alburquerque Bremy , Dupper Amy C. , McBride Russell , Altman Deena R. 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) bloodstream infection (BSI) is a serious public health concern. At times, MRSA is isolated from the blood along with other pathogens, the significance and consequences of which are not well described. This study aims to outline the clinical characteristics and outcomes of those with polymicrobial MRSA BSI compared with those with monomicrobial MRSA BSI. We conducted a retrospective case-control study of those with and without polymicrobial MRSA BSI from 2014 to 2022 at a single quaternary care center in New York City. Risk factors and outcomes for polymicrobial MRSA BSI were assessed using logistic regression analyses. Of 559 patients with MRSA BSI during the study period, 49 (9%) had polymicrobial MRSA BSI. Gram-positive
Enterococcus
(23%) was the most common co-pathogen. The presence of urinary (
P
= 0.02) and gastrointestinal (
P
< 0.01) devices was significantly associated with polymicrobial MRSA BSI. Polymicrobial MRSA BSI was associated with intensive care unit (ICU) admission after BSI (
P
= 0.01). Mortality did not differ. While polymicrobial MRSA BSI is relatively uncommon, it complicates an already complex clinical scenario of MRSA BSI.

IMPORTANCE

Staphylococcus aureus
is a common human pathogen associated with severe disease and high mortality rates. Although clinically observed, little is known about the impact of polymicrobial staphylococcal bloodstream infection. This study evaluates polymicrobial methicillin-resistant
S. aureus
bloodstream infection (BSI), highlighting the increased risk of intensive care unit admission and impact on morbidity. Identifying risk factors for polymicrobial BSI, such as the presence of specific devices, can aid in early recognition and targeted interventions. Clarifying the risks and outcomes of polymicrobial infections can lead to strategies to minimize and manage these infections and explore the potential interactions between pathogens.
Appropriateness of antibiotic prescribing in paediatrics: retrospective controlled study assessing a multifaceted intervention in Northern Italy in a 7-year period
Authors: Corsini Romina , Manzotti Romano , Zini Annalisa , Mezzadri Sergio , Massari Marco , Formoso Giulio 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundAcademic detailing, audit and feedback, and peer comparison have been advocated as effective ways to promote appropriateness of prescribing and antimicrobial stewardship (AMS). This study explored the effectiveness of a multifaceted intervention aimed at supporting the appropriateness of antibiotic prescribing in paediatrics.MethodsOver the course of 7 years, all 89 paediatricians of the Local Health Authority (LHA) of Reggio Emilia (530 000 residents) were provided with scientific literature focused on antimicrobial resistance and the appropriateness of use of specific antibiotics, together with local data on antimicrobial resistance and prescribing reports comparing each paediatrician with colleagues in the same district and with local averages. Prescribing rates of specific target antibiotics/classes of antibiotics were evaluated by comparing Reggio-Emilia with the other seven LHAs of the Emilia-Romagna Region (control area), adjusting for prescriptions during a 2-year baseline period.ResultsA significant increase in the rate of amoxicillin prescriptions (91 more per 1000 children/year) was observed in the intervention area compared with the control area along with a significant reduction in the rate of amoxicillin+clavulanate prescriptions (70 fewer per 1000 children/year) and a significant increase in the ratio of their prescription rates. No differences were observed in cephalosporin and macrolide prescription rates and overall antibiotic prescriptions.ConclusionsImprovements in prescribing appropriateness were observed. This study confirms the importance of an audit and feedback approach through small group meetings supported by scientific literature, local resistance data and prescribing reports. Such approach should always be considered as part of multifaceted interventions to promote AMS.
General practice preconception care invitations: a qualitative study of women’s acceptability and preferences
Authors: Withanage Nishadi Nethmini , James Sharon , Botfield Jessica , Black Kirsten , Wong Jeana , Mazza Danielle 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundIn general practice, primary care providers can potentially use electronic medical records (EMRs) to identify and invite reproductive-aged women with preconception health risk factors to increase their engagement in preconception care (PCC). However, the acceptability of receiving PCC invitations and women’s preferences about the invitation process are poorly understood. This study aims to investigate women’s acceptability and preferences for receiving PCC invitations from general practice settings.MethodsParticipants were recruited via convenience, purposive and snowball sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted via Zoom from August until November 2023. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and inductive reflexive thematic analysis was undertaken.ResultsPCC invitations sent from general practice are acceptable if the language is sensitive and non-stigmatising. Text or email invitations detailing the importance and scope of the PCC consultation were preferred, after discussing reproductive intentions with a general practitioner or practice nurse. Women with preconception health risk factors or those actively trying to conceive were more likely to engage in PCC. Key strategies to enhance PCC engagement include advertising in waiting rooms, introducing PCC in new patient registration forms, and integrating PCC into holistic care.ConclusionUsing EMRs to identify and invite women with preconception health risk factors to increase their engagement in PCC is generally acceptable. Invitations sent via text messages or emails are preferred. It is crucial to use respectful and appropriate language to avoid stigmatising or offending women, particularly those with infertility issues, those who have completed their families, or those who do not wish to have children.
Professional development scheme: a tool to measure health research competencies in healthcare professionals
Authors: Bilardi Davide , Rapa Elizabeth , Shah Kehkashan , Zeeshan Salvia , Baker Bonny Louise , Lang Trudie 
Published: September 2024

Significant investments have been made in health research capacity development (HRCD) initiatives focusing on individual professionals and institutional frameworks. However, prevailing approaches often prioritise specific research projects over explicit strategies for strengthening the capacities of health research professionals (HRPs) particularly in low and middle-income countries. Despite recognition of its limitations, this implicit approach persists resulting in a lack of effective HRCD strategies. Additionally, the absence of globally standardised mechanisms for evaluating HRCD initiatives makes it more complex to define clear success benchmarks for these initiatives. Evaluations of HRCD strategies predominantly focus on pre-intervention and post-intervention assessments of specific interventions often neglecting the broader context of capacity development. Consequently, there is an imperative for a more systematic approach to measuring HRCD, particularly at the individual level.This paper describes the design and the scope of the Professional Development Scheme (PDS), a tool designed to quantify HRCD among HRPs. Structured across four core sections including professional experiences, qualifications and the self-evaluation of 325 key competencies, the PDS allows users to generate evidence of existing strengths and possible areas of improvement in their research skills. Profile submissions undergo rigorous moderation to ensure fidelity and uniformity in competency evaluation.The PDS can offer a structured approach to assessing and improving research capacities among HRPs. By focusing on specific skills and employing clear evaluation methods, the PDS aims to overcome the shortcomings of previous approaches and promote development in global health research capacity.
Quantum null-hypothesis device-independent Schmidt number witness
Authors: Batle Josep , Białecki Tomasz , Rybotycki Tomasz , Tworzydło Jakub , Bednorz Adam 
Published: September 2024

AbstractWe investigate the dimensionality of bipartite quantum systems by construction of a device-independent null witness test. This test assesses whether a given bipartite state conforms with the expected quantum dimension, Schmidt number, and distinguishes between real and complex spaces. By employing local measurements on each party, the proposed method aims to determine the minimal rank. By performing an experimental demonstration on IBM Quantum devices, we prove the exceptional accuracy of the test and its usefulness in diagnostics beyond routine calibrations. One of the tests shows agreement with theoretical expectations within statistical errors. However, the second test failed by more than 6 standard deviations, indicating unspecified parasitic entanglements, with no known simple origin.
Alpha-band fluctuations represent behaviorally relevant excitability
changes as a consequence of top–down guided spatial attention in a
probabilistic spatial cueing design
Authors: Gundlach Christopher , Forschack Norman , Müller Matthias M. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Spatial attention is a key function enabling the selection of relevant information and meaningful behavioral responses and is likely implemented by different neural mechanisms. In previous work, attention led to robust but uncorrelated modulations of Steady-State-Visual-Evoked-Potentials (SSVEPs) as a marker of early sensory gain and visual as well as motor alpha-band activity. We probed the behavioral relevance of attention-modulated trial-by-trial fluctuations of these measures. For this purpose, in an experiment with a classical probabilistic visuospatial attention cueing task, a to-be-discriminated target stimulus was validly, neutrally, or invalidly cued, while behavioral responses and EEG were recorded. Single-trial flicker-driven SSVEPs, visual and motor alpha-band activity were measured and the relationship between their amplitudes and reaction times was modeled via Bayesian regression models, respectively. We replicated previous findings that these neural measures and behavioral responses were overall modulated by the attentional cue. Beyond that, SSVEP amplitudes were not associated with behavior, while single-trial alpha-band amplitudes were predictive of reaction times: For trials with a valid or neutral cue, lower visual and motor alpha-band amplitudes measured contralateral to the target in the cue–target interval were associated with faster responses (and for valid cues also higher amplitudes ipsilateral to the target). For invalid cues, which required attentional reallocating to the uncued side, no such relationship was found. We argue that behavioral relevance of alpha-band modulations is a consequence but not a mechanism of top–down guided spatial attention, representing neural excitability in cortical areas activated by the attentional shift.