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Societal Impact Statement Summary The use of chemical plant protection products must be reduced to promote sustainability in food production. One possible alternative is biological control agents (BCAs), but their efficacy under commercial conditions does not always reach the standard of chemical control agents. Previously, light has been found to induce mechanisms in bacterial BCAs that can affect their distribution and establishment. This could promote BCA efficacy. We looked into how monochromatic and polychromatic (which is what growers use) light treatments affected the occurrence of three BCAs post‐application. By combining two non‐chemical methods: a biological (BCA) and a cultural (light) control method, this offers a new integrated pest control strategy. The dynamics and functionality of beneficial and non‐beneficial, non‐phototrophic bacteria can be influenced by light quality. We investigated if light could aid the survival of three bacterial biological control agents (BCAs; Bacillus amyloliquefaciens DSM7, Pseudomonas chlororaphis 50083 and Streptomyces griseoviridis CBS904.68) in the canopy of greenhouse‐grown tomatoes at four light treatments. Tomato plants were exposed to 50 μmol m−2 s−1 of either polychromatic light (white) or monochromatic light (blue: 420 nm, green: 530 nm and red: 660 nm) using DYNA LED lamps for a total of 48 h post foliar application of the BCAs. Leaves were harvested from two levels in the canopy at the top and middle of each plant at 0, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24 and 48 h post inoculation. The occurrences of the BCAs were quantified by plate count and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). S. griseoviridis persisted under most treatments, whereas P. chlororaphis and B. amyloliquefaciens preferred the polychromatic and green light treatments as depicted by the viable count analyses. Significant differences between the DNA and cDNA concentrations were only noted for P. chlororaphis, with prominent wavelength effects. Light exposure dose, placement in the canopy and wavelength were found to be decisive factors for BCA re‐isolation, indicating that they have different optimal light environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have shown that the size of LNP depends on the molecular weight (Mw) of lignin. There is however need for deeper understanding on the role of molecular structure on LNP formation and its properties, in order to build a solid foundation on structure–property relationships. In this study, we show, for similar Mw lignins, that the size and morphology of LNPs depends on the molecular structure of the lignin macromolecule. More specifically, the molecular structure determined the molecular conformations, which in turn affects the inter-molecular assembly to yield size- and morphological-differences between LNPs. This was supported by density functional theory (DFT) modelling of representative structural motifs of three lignins sourced from Kraft and Organosolv processes. The obtained conformational differences are clearly explained by intra-molecular sandwich and/or T-shaped π–π stacking, the stacking type determined by the precise lignin structure. Moreover, the experimentally identified structures were detected in the superficial layer of LNPs in aqueous solution, confirming the theoretically predicted self-assembly patterns. The present work demonstrates that LNP properties can be molecularly tailored, consequently creating an avenue for tailored applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) is not routinely performed for Clostridioides difficile and data evaluating minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) are limited. We performed AST and whole genome sequencing (WGS) for 593 C. difficile isolates collected between 2012 and 2017 through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Emerging Infections Program. Methods MICs to 6 antimicrobial agents (ceftriaxone, clindamycin, meropenem, metronidazole, moxifloxacin, and vancomycin) were determined using the reference agar dilution method according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. Whole genome sequencing was performed on all isolates to detect the presence of genes or mutations previously associated with resistance. Results Among all isolates, 98.5% displayed a vancomycin MIC ≤2 μg/mL and 97.3% displayed a metronidazole MIC ≤2 μg/mL. Ribotype 027 (RT027) isolates displayed higher vancomycin MICs (MIC50: 2 μg/mL; MIC90: 2 μg/mL) than non-RT027 isolates (MIC50: 0.5 μg/mL; MIC90: 1 μg/mL) (P <.01). No vanA/B genes were detected. RT027 isolates also showed higher MICs to clindamycin and moxifloxacin and were more likely to harbor associated resistance genes or mutations. Conclusions Elevated MICs to antibiotics used for treatment of C. difficile infection were rare, and there was no increase in MICs over time. The lack of vanA/B genes or mutations consistently associated with elevated vancomycin MICs suggests there are multifactorial mechanisms of resistance. Ongoing surveillance of C. difficile using reference AST and WGS to monitor MIC trends and the presence of antibiotic resistance mechanisms is essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backround: During the last decades, outbreaks of foodborne illnesses have increasingly been linked to fresh and/or minimally processed fruit and vegetables. Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli was the causal agent for major outbreaks in Europe with leafy green vegetables and sprouts. To improve food safety, microbial antagonism has received attention during recent years and could be one of the solution to prevent contamination of food borne pathogens on fresh produce. Here we investigate the antagonistic effect of three bacterial strains (Pseudomonas orientalis, P. flavescens and Rhodococcus sp.) isolated from spinach leaves against E. coli O157:H7gfp + under laboratory and greenhouse conditions. Results: Our results shows that significantly less culturable E.coli O157:H7gfp + were retrieved from the spinach canopy subjected to antagonist seed treatment than canopy inoculation. Seeds inoculated with Rhodococcus sp. significantly reduced growth of E. coli O157:H7gfp + compared with the other antagonists. The result from the in vitro study shows a significant reduction of growth of E. coli O157:H7gfp+, but only after 44 h when E. coli O157:H7gfp + was propagated in a mixture of spent media from all three antagonists. Conclusions: The antagonistic effect on phyllospheric E.coli O157:H7gfp + observed after seed inoculation with Rhodococcus sp. might be an indication of induced resistance mechanism in the crop. In addition, there was a small reduction of culturable E.coli O157:H7gfp + when propagated in spent media from all three antagonists. Nutritional conditions rather than metabolites formed by the three chosen organisms appear to be critical for controlling E. coli O157:H7gfp+. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backround: During the last decades, outbreaks of foodborne illnesses have increasingly been linked to fresh and/or minimally processed fruit and vegetables. Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli was the causal agent for major outbreaks in Europe with leafy green vegetables and sprouts. To improve food safety, microbial antagonism has received attention during recent years and could be one of the solution to prevent contamination of food borne pathogens on fresh produce. Here we investigate the antagonistic effect of three bacterial strains (Pseudomonas orientalis, P. flavescens and Rhodococcus sp.) isolated from spinach leaves against E. coli O157:H7gfp + under laboratory and greenhouse conditions. Results: Our results shows that significantly less culturable E.coli O157:H7gfp + were retrieved from the spinach canopy subjected to antagonist seed treatment than canopy inoculation. Seeds inoculated with Rhodococcus sp. significantly reduced growth of E. coli O157:H7gfp + compared with the other antagonists. The result from the in vitro study shows a significant reduction of growth of E. coli O157:H7gfp+, but only after 44 h when E. coli O157:H7gfp + was propagated in a mixture of spent media from all three antagonists. Conclusions: The antagonistic effect on phyllospheric E.coli O157:H7gfp + observed after seed inoculation with Rhodococcus sp. might be an indication of induced resistance mechanism in the crop. In addition, there was a small reduction of culturable E.coli O157:H7gfp + when propagated in spent media from all three antagonists. Nutritional conditions rather than metabolites formed by the three chosen organisms appear to be critical for controlling E. coli O157:H7gfp+. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) are a growing public health concern due to resistance to multiple antibiotics and potential to cause health care-associated infections with high mortality. Carbapenemase-producing CRE are of particular concern given that carbapenemase-encoding genes often are located on mobile genetic elements that may spread between different organisms and species. In this study, we performed phenotypic and genotypic characterization of CRE collected at eight U.S. sites participating in active population- and laboratory-based surveillance of carbapenem-resistant organisms. Among 421 CRE tested, the majority were isolated from urine (n = 349, 83%). Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most common organism (n = 265, 63%), followed by Enterobacter cloacae complex (n = 77, 18%) and Escherichia coli (n = 50, 12%). Of 419 isolates analyzed by whole genome sequencing, 307 (73%) harbored a carbapenemase gene; variants of blaKPC predominated (n = 299, 97%). The occurrence of carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae, E. cloacae complex, and E. coli varied by region; the predominant sequence type within each genus was ST258, ST171, and ST131, respectively. None of the carbapenemase-producing CRE isolates displayed resistance to all antimicrobials tested; susceptibility to amikacin and tigecycline was generally retained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignin is a renewable source of aromatics with great potential as a substitute for fossil-based phenolic compounds that are used in several material applications. However, the available technical lignins are heterogenic and still structurally not fully understood. This presents hurdles for studies focused on gaining fundamental insights into how materials properties are related to the molecular structure of lignin. In the present study, a novel cyclic extraction process for lignin is more deeply studied to investigate the potential to tailor the chemical and physical properties of lignin. For this purpose, a design of experiment (DoE) approach was adopted as a tool to investigate the effect on the lignin properties of the selected parameters by including linear, quadratic and interaction effects in a multiple linear regression (MLR) model. Molecular characterization techniques included 1D and 2D NMR, SEC and DSC. It was clearly demonstrated that the chemical and physical properties of lignin could be tuned for the cyclic process using the DoE approach, while preserving 66–82% of the commonly known lignin inter-units, substantiating that the cyclic extraction approach offered a decent to excellent level of protection to inter-units when compared to benchmark organosolv and kraft lignin. By manipulation of the extraction conditions, the β-O-4′ content can be tuned between 20 and 35% simultaneously with the content of phenolic and aliphatic hydroxyls. Finally, DSC studies showed Tgs in the range of 150–185 °C which are discussed with respect to the molecular properties of the analysed lignin. Overall, to advance efforts in lignin valorization, a green process to produce a library of well-characterized lignins, tailored with respect to chemical and physical properties by process conditions, is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel pickling procedure for aluminium is elaborated for successful removal of corrosion products on aluminium embedded and exposed in concrete, allowing subsequent mass loss evaluation. The current recommended standard procedures for mass loss evaluation of aluminium are not sufficiently effective, either leaving significant amounts of concrete and corrosion products on the aluminium surfaces after pickling, or containing hazardous chemicals. Removal of both concrete and corrosion products from the aluminium surfaces require a stepwise combination of an aqueous glycine solution, nitric acid at elevated temperature and careful manual removal of adherent concrete. To enable successful removal of complex corrosion products from aluminium embedded in concrete a novel pickling method was elaborated to facilitate mass loss evaluation. In addition to weighing throughout the pickling procedure, efficient corrosion product removal was confirmed visually and through SEM investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The composition and properties of raw milk are of great importance for the quality and shelf life of the final dairy product, especially in products with a long shelf life [e.g., ultra-high-temperature (UHT)-treated milk]. The objective of this study was to investigate the compositional variation in raw milk samples before processing at the dairy plant. Moreover, we wanted to investigate the effect of the UHT process on this variation (i.e., if the same variation could be observed in the corresponding UHT milk). The quality traits analyzed included detailed milk composition, counts of total and psychrotrophic bacteria, proteolytic activity, and color, as well as predictive measures of stability (i.e., ethanol stability and heat coagulating time). Samples of raw milk and the corresponding produced UHT milk were collected and analyzed on a monthly basis during 1 yr. Principal component analysis was used to identify months showing similarities and differences with respect to total variation. In contrast to previous studies, we observed only small variations between months and no clear effect of season for the raw milk. For the UHT milk, July and the winter months (December, January, and February) tended to separate from the other months. Quality traits showing significant variation were only to some extent identical in raw milk and UHT-processed milk. A better understanding of the natural variation in raw milk quality will provide opportunities to improve the shelf life of UHT-treated milk products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Correction for 'Protected lignin biorefining through cyclic extraction: gaining fundamental insights into the tuneable properties of lignin by chemometrics' by Maria Karlsson et al., Green Chem., 2022, 24, 1211–1223, DOI: 10.1039/D1GC04171A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Common melanocytic naevi are considered early biomarkers associated with risk of cutaneous malignant melanoma. We sought to investigate if residing at different latitudes in Sweden influences the population’s anatomical distribution of naevi in children and melanoma in adults. Methods The nationwide Swedish Cancer Registry 1990–2012 gave cumulative number of invasive melanomas per body site, stratified by sex and age in northern (62–69 °N) ( n = 2823) and southern (55–58 °N) Sweden ( n = 24,115). A population-based cross-sectional study conducted in 2002 provided the allocation of naevi among 7-year-olds in northern (5695 naevi in 679 children) and southern Sweden (8392 naevi in 681 children). Results In 2012, northern Sweden had a two-fold lower melanoma incidence: 19.8/100.000 age-standardised population compared with 41.0/100.000 in the south. Similarly, a lower mean naevi density in children was demonstrated: 7.3 (standard deviation (SD) 5.4) in boys and 7.0 (4.7) in girls in the north versus 13.3 (8.4) in boys and 11.9 (8.5) in girls in the south. Across latitudes of residing, gender profiles and proportional body-site distributions of melanoma and naevi, respectively, were largely homogenous, but in southern Sweden slightly higher on the trunk; a body site associated with intermittent sun exposure. Childhood naevi distributions matched with melanomas in young and middle-aged adults. Conclusion This large population-based study demonstrated that latitude of residing similarly affects the number and anatomical distribution of naevi in children and melanoma in adults. It supports a role of childhood naevi as predictors of overall and subsite risk of melanoma among young adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An observational population-based study conducted among 2 sets of 7-year-old children in Sweden in 2002 and 2007 revealed evidence of improved sun protection, also reflected in a significant reduction in the total number of melanocytic naevi. Based on these data-sets, the aim of the current study was to determine whether the overall reduction in naevi had impacted differently on body sites based on their main pattern of sun exposure. In 2002, median naevi counts/m2 were highest on intermittently sun-exposed sites: 13.8 (95% CI 8.0–22.7) compared with chronically sun-exposed sites: 11.0 (95% CI 0.0–20.5). In 2007, median naevi counts/m2 on intermittently sun-exposed body sites were significantly lower: 8.7 (95% CI 4.7–15.2), p < 0.0001, while on chronically exposed sites median naevi counts/m2 were unaltered: 10.3 (95% CI 0.0–14.4), p = 0.9313. Changes were most evident among boys. Future research can evaluate whether this shift in naevi distribution in Swedish children translates into a reduction in cutaneous melanomas on intermittently sun-exposed body sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a linear regression model subject to left-truncation and right-censoring where the truncation and censoring points are known constants (or always observed if random), Karlsson and Laitila (Stat Probab Lett 78:2567-2571, ) proposed a semiparametric estimator which deals with left-truncation by trimming and right-censoring by 'winsorizing'. The estimator was motivated by a zero moment condition where a transformed error term appears with trimmed and winsorized tails. This paper takes the semiparametric estimator further by deriving the asymptotic distribution that was not shown in Karlsson and Laitila (Stat Probab Lett 78:2567-2571, ) and discusses its implementation aspects in practice, albeit brief. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of melanocytic naevi in children correlates with sun exposure and may serve as an objective population risk indicator of future melanoma incidence. The aim was to investigate if mobile teledermatology could offer a valid methodology compared with standard manual, face-to-face counting of naevi on the back of children. Ninety-seven children aged 7-16 years were enrolled. One dermatologist performed manual naevi counting and imaging of the child's back using an iPhone 4S comprising a safe-coded mobile application. Two other dermatologists independently counted naevi from the images. Cohen's weighted kappa (κw) coefficient demonstrated substantial agreement for both dermatologists: κw = 0.69 (0.57-0.81 [95% confidence intervals]) and κw = 0.78 (0.70-0.86), compared with the manual assessment. Inter-rater reliability was also substantial (κw = 0.80 [0.73-0.87]). Use of mobile teledermatology proved valid for estimating naevi prevalence on the back and could provide a more feasible methodology following trends in sun exposure in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The MHC (Major Histocompatibility Complex) plays an important role in the immune system of vertebrates. MHC genes are extremely polymorphic and this variation is considered to be maintained by selection from pathogens. We investigate whether MHC diversity (number of different alleles per individual) affects the survival and recruitment of nestling house sparrows. We hypothesize that individuals with higher MHC diversity can recognize and combat a wider range of pathogens, and therefore are more likely to survive and recruit into the breeding population. Additionally, we hypothesize that specific MHC class I alleles (MHC-I) could be associated with survival and recruitment. We screened MHC-I genotypes in 518 house sparrow chicks hatched on Lundy Island but we found no evidence for a relationship between nestling survival, post-fledging survival or recruitment success with MHC diversity. Then we investigated effects of specific MHC-I alleles in 195 individuals from a single cohort. Twenty-one MHC-I alleles were tested for relationships with nestling survival, post-fledging survival and recruitment, and we detected associations with survival for three different alleles. This pattern was, however, not different to what would be expected from random, so we could not conclude that particular MHC-I alleles are associated with survival in house sparrows on Lundy Island. Nonetheless, one of these alleles (1105) showed both a tendency for a higher probability of surviving in nestlings, and a significant association with survival in fledglings. We envision that allele 1105 could be an interesting candidate gene for testing associations with survival in house sparrows in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stainless steel is widely used in biological environments, for example as implant material or in food applications, where adsorption-controlled ligand-induced metal release is of importance from a corrosion, health, and food safety perspective. The objective of this study was to elucidate potential correlations between surface energy and wettability of stainless steel surfaces and the release of iron in complexing biological media. This was accomplished by studying changes in surface energies calculated from contact angle measurements, surface oxide composition (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy), and released iron (graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy) for stainless steel grade AISI 304 immersed in fluids containing bovine serum albumin or citric acid, and non-complexing fluids such as NaCl, NaOH, and HNO 3 . It was shown that the surface wettability and polar surface energy components were all influenced by adventitious atmospheric carbon (surface contamination of low molecular weight), rather than differences in surface oxide composition in non-complexing solutions. Adsorption of both BSA and citrate, which resulted in ligand-induced metal release, strongly influenced the wettability and the surface energy, and correlated well with the measured released amount of iron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In birds the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) organization differs both among and within orders; chickens Gallus gallus of the order Galliformes have a simple arrangement, while many songbirds of the order Passeriformes have a more complex arrangement with larger numbers of MHC class I and II genes. Chicken MHC genes are found at two independent loci, classical MHC- B and non-classical MHC- Y, whereas non-classical MHC genes are yet to be verified in passerines. Here we characterize MHC class I transcripts (α1 to α3 domain) and perform amplicon sequencing using a next-generation sequencing technique on exon 3 from house sparrow Passer domesticus (a passerine) families. Then we use phylogenetic, selection, and segregation analyses to gain a better understanding of the MHC class I organization. Trees based on the α1 and α2 domain revealed a distinct cluster with short terminal branches for transcripts with a 6-bp deletion. Interestingly, this cluster was not seen in the tree based on the α3 domain. 21 exon 3 sequences were verified in a single individual and the average numbers within an individual were nine and five for sequences with and without a 6-bp deletion, respectively. All individuals had exon 3 sequences with and without a 6-bp deletion. The sequences with a 6-bp deletion have many characteristics in common with non-classical MHC, e.g., highly conserved amino acid positions were substituted compared with the other alleles, low nucleotide diversity and just a single site was subject to positive selection. However, these alleles also have characteristics that suggest they could be classical, e.g., complete linkage and absence of a distinct cluster in a tree based on the α3 domain. Thus, we cannot determine for certain whether or not the alleles with a 6-bp deletion are non-classical based on our present data. Further analyses on segregation patterns of these alleles in combination with dating the 6-bp deletion through MHC characterization across the genus Passer may solve this matter in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to explore mental health staffs' experiences of assisting people with psychotic disorders to implement lifestyle changes in an effort to prevent metabolic syndrome. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 12 health care professionals working in psychosis outpatient care in Sweden. Data were analysed using a qualitative content analysis. The results illustrate that implementation of lifestyle changes among people with psychotic disorders was experienced as difficult, but possible. The greatest obstacles experienced in this work were difficulties due to the reduction of cognitive functions associated with the disease. Guidelines available to staff in order to help them identify and prevent physical health problems in the group were not always followed and the content was not always relevant. Staff further described feelings of uncertainty about having to motivate people to take anti-psychotic medication while simultaneously being aware of the risks of metabolic deviations. Nursing interventions focusing on organising daily routines before conducting a more active prevention of metabolic syndrome, including information and practical support, were experienced as necessary. The importance of healthy eating and physical activity needs to be communicated in such a way that it is adjusted to the person's cognitive ability, and should be repeated over time, both verbally and in writing. Such efforts, in combination with empathic and seriously committed community-based social support, were experienced as having the best effect over time. Permanent lifestyle changes were experienced as having to be carried out on the patient's terms and in his or her home environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes are the most polymorphic genes found in the vertebrate genome, and they encode proteins that play an essential role in the adaptive immune response. Many songbirds (passerines) have been shown to have a large number of transcribed MHC class I genes compared to most mammals. To elucidate the reason for this large number of genes, we compared 14 MHC class I alleles (α1-α3 domains), from great reed warbler, house sparrow and tree sparrow, via phylogenetic analysis, homology modelling and in silico peptide-binding predictions to investigate their functional and genetic relationships. We found more pronounced clustering of the MHC class I allomorphs (allele specific proteins) in regards to their function (peptide-binding specificities) compared to their genetic relationships (amino acid sequences), indicating that the high number of alleles is of functional significance. The MHC class I allomorphs from house sparrow and tree sparrow, species that diverged 10 million years ago (MYA), had overlapping peptide-binding specificities, and these similarities across species were also confirmed in phylogenetic analyses based on amino acid sequences. Notably, there were also overlapping peptide-binding specificities in the allomorphs from house sparrow and great reed warbler, although these species diverged 30 MYA. This overlap was not found in a tree based on amino acid sequences. Our interpretation is that convergent evolution on the level of the protein function, possibly driven by selection from shared pathogens, has resulted in allomorphs with similar peptide-binding repertoires, although trans-species evolution in combination with gene conversion cannot be ruled out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The field of synthetic biology is rapidly expanding and has over the past years evolved from the development of simple gene networks to complex treatment-oriented circuits. The reprogramming of cell fate with open-loop or closed-loop synthetic control circuits along with biologically implemented logical functions have fostered applications spanning over a wide range of disciplines, including artificial insemination, personalized medicine and the treatment of cancer and metabolic disorders. In this review we describe several applications of interactive gene networks, a synthetic biology-based approach for future gene therapy, as well as the utilization of synthetic gene circuits as blueprints for the design of stimuli-responsive biohybrid materials. The recent progress in synthetic biology, including the rewiring of biosensing devices with the body''s endogenous network as well as novel therapeutic approaches originating from interdisciplinary work, generates numerous opportunities for future biomedical applications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In Libellulidae, oocyte production has been assumed to be continuous, with periods of egg-laying interspersed with periods of resting/eating; however, recent work suggests that two types of oocyte production are common: either (a) continuous or (b) step-wise. These are mirrored in the arrangement of the ovarioles in the ovaries. Likewise, two types of mate-guarding behavior have been observed in Libellulidae: (1) non-contact guarding and (2) tandem guarding in which the male either hovers above the female or is physically attached to her during oviposition. Using molecular (mitochondrial and nuclear) data we explored the evolution of female reproductive traits, focusing on ovariole morphology, as well as guarding behavior, in Libellulidae. Continuous egg production appears to have evolved more than once, as have tandem and non-contact guarding. We discuss how the evolution of different ovariole types and guarding behavior may have been influenced by habitat instability, dispersal and crowded oviposition sites; thus, migratory behavior or habitat availability may have been the driving force of ovariole evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To increase understanding of drug-resistant Vibrio cholerae, we studied selected molecular mechanisms of antimicrobial drug resistance in the 2010 Haiti V. cholerae outbreak strain. Most resistance resulted from acquired genes located on an integrating conjugative element showing high homology to an integrating conjugative element identified in a V. cholerae isolate from India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report 9 ciprofloxacin-resistant Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi isolates submitted to the US National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System during 1999-2008. The first 2 had indistinguishable pulsed-field gel electrophoresis patterns and identical gyrA and parC mutations. Eight of the 9 patients had traveled to India within 30 days before illness onset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Inducer-dependent prokaryotic transcriptional repressor proteins that originally evolved to orchestrate the transcriptome with intracellular and extracellular metabolite pools, have become universal tools in synthetic biology, drug discovery, diagnostics and functional genomics. Production of the repressor proteins is often limited due to inhibiting effects on the production host and requires iterative process optimization for each individual repressor. At the example of the Streptomyces pristinaespiralis-derived streptogramin-dependent repressor PIP, the expression of which was shown to inhibit growth of Escherichia coli BL21*, we demonstrate that the addition of the PIP-specific streptogramin antibiotic pristinamycin I neutralizes the growth-inhibiting effect and results in >100-fold increased PIP titers. The yield of PIP was further increased 2.5-fold by the engineering of a new E. coli host suitable for the production of growth-inhibiting proteins encoded by an unfavorable codon usage. PIP produced in the presence of pristinamycin I was purified and was shown to retain the antibiotic-dependent binding to its operator pir as demonstrated by a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based approach. At the example of the macrolide-, tetracycline- and arsenic-dependent repressors MphR(A), TetR and ArsR, we further demonstrate that the production yields can be increased 2- to 3-fold by the addition of the cognate inducer molecules erythromycin, tetracycline and As3+, respectively. Therefore, the addition of inducer molecules specific to the target repressor protein seems to be a general strategy to increase the yield of this interesting protein class. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We present a general discussion of what constitutes a market-oriented approach to optimization. We demonstrate how a general framework can be used to conceptually improve two well-known approaches from the literature, and discuss computational properties of the different approaches. We also show how existing theory could be adjusted to be directly applicable to the theory of the two approaches, thus proving special theory unnecessary. We want to bring out the pedagogical aspects of market mechanisms, to take full advantage of its potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Expression of the gene encoding the MKP-3/Pyst1 protein phosphatase, which inactivates ERK MAPK, is induced by FGF. However, which intracellular signalling pathway mediates this expression is unclear, with essential roles proposed for both ERK and PI(3)K in chick embryonic limb. Here, we report that MKP-3/Pyst1 expression is sensitive to inhibition of ERK or MAPKK, that endogenous MKP-3/Pyst1 co-localizes with activated ERK, and expression of MKP-3/Pyst1 in mice lacking PDK1, an essential mediator of PI(3)K signalling. We conclude that MKP-3/Pyst1 expression is mediated by ERK activation and that negative feedback control predominates in limiting the extent of FGF-induced ERK activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

MAP kinase phosphatase (MKP)-3 is a cytoplasmic dual specificity protein phosphatase that specifically binds to and inactivates the ERK1/2 MAP kinases in mammalian cells. However, the molecular basis of the cytoplasmic localization of MKP-3 or its physiological significance is unknown. We have used MKP-3-green fluorescent protein fusions in conjunction with leptomycin B to show that the cytoplasmic localization of MKP-3 is mediated by a chromosome region maintenance-1 (CRM1)-dependent nuclear export pathway. Furthermore, the nuclear translocation of MKP-3 seen in the presence of leptomycin B is mediated by an active process, indicating that MKP-3 shuttles between the nucleus and cytoplasm. The amino-terminal noncatalytic domain of MKP-3 is both necessary and sufficient for nuclear export of the phosphatase and contains a single functional leucine-rich nuclear export signal (NES). Even though this domain of the protein also mediates the binding of MKP-3 to MAP kinase, we show that mutations of the kinase interaction motif which abrogate ERK2 binding do not affect MKP-3 localization. Conversely, mutation of the NES does not affect either the binding or phosphatase activity of MKP-3 toward ERK2, indicating that the kinase interaction motif and NES function independently. Finally, we demonstrate that the ability of MKP-3 to cause the cytoplasmic retention of ERK2 requires both a functional kinase interaction motif and NES. We conclude that in addition to its established function in the regulated dephosphorylation and inactivation of MAP kinase, MKP-3 may also play a role in determining the subcellular localization of its substrate. Our results reinforce the idea that regulatory proteins such as MKP-3 may play a key role in the spatio-temporal regulation of MAP kinase activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bias and MSE of the QME are studied by means of simulation. A bootstrap estimator of the QME covariance matrix is also included in the study. The simulation is based on travel distances reported in the Swedish Travel Habit Survey. The results are in accordance with the asymptotic properties of the QME. For example, the QME is better than other suggested estimators under asymmetric distributions of the error term. The results also suggest that the bootstrap technique is potentially useful for estimation of the QME covariance matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aquaporin PM28A is one of the major integral proteins in spinach leaf plasma membranes. Phosphorylation/dephosphorylation of Ser274 at the C-terminus and of Ser115 in the first cytoplasmic loop has been shown to regulate the water channel activity of PM28A when expressed in Xenopus oocytes. To understand the mechanisms of the phosphorylation-mediated gating of the channel the structure of PM28A is required. In a first step we have used the methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris for expression of the pm28a gene. The expressed protein has a molecular mass of 32462 Da as determined by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-mass spectrometry, forms tetramers as revealed by electron microscopy and is functionally active when reconstituted in proteoliposomes. PM28A was efficiently solubilized from urea- and alkali-stripped Pichia membranes by octyl-β-D-thioglucopyranoside resulting in a final yield of 25 mg of purified protein per liter of cell culture. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Examines the influence of net radiation, cold-air advection and sheltering on the air temperature pattern in a coniferous forest during clear nights in Vastra Gotaland, Southwestern Sweden. Comparison of air temperature patterns; Negative net radiation due to elevated sky view factor; Lower air temperature of forested areas due to turbulence reduction; Cold temperatures of clearings within forests.

Examines the expression of tonoplast intrinsic proteins (TIP) in mature vacuolated plant cells. Presence of aquaporins in water channel proteins found in vacuolar and plasma membranes; Subcellular and tissue distribution of TIP in plants; Characterization of meristematic cells by small vacuoles.

Investigates nocturnal air temperature structure development in a complex terrain, with focus on studies conducted on clear nights, as it relates to meteorology. Comparison of the cooling rate in different topographical areas with a variety of land cover; Factors controlling the accumulation of cold in small valleys; Influence of geographical parameters on the temperature variation each valley.

The caging of small molecules has revolutionized biological research by providing a means to regulate a wide range of processes. Here we report on a generic pharmacological method to cage proteins in a similar fashion. The present approach is of value in both fundamental and applied research, e.g. in tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CTX-M-type β-lactamases are increasing among US Enterobacteriaceae isolates. Of 2,165 non-Typhi Salmonella isolates submitted in 2007 to the National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System, 100 (4.6%) displayed elevated MICs (≥2 mg/L) of ceftriaxone or ceftiofur. Three isolates (serotypes Typhimurium, Concord, and I 4,5,12:i:--) contained blaCTX-M-5, blaCTX-M-15, and blaCTX-M-55/57, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We determined the prevalence of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance mechanisms among non-Typhi Salmonella spp. isolated from humans, food animals, and retail meat in the United States in 2007. Six isolates collected from humans harbored aac(6')lb-cr or a qnr gene. Most prevalent was qnrS1. No animal or retail meat isolates harbored a plasmid-mediated mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorescently labeled cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) were used to evaluate CNF leaching from paper according to standard safety assays for food contact materials. Enzymatically pretreated pulp was first labeled with 5-([4,6-Dichlorotriazin-2-yl]amino)fluorescein hydrochloride (DTAF), followed by homogenization to produce fluorescent CNFs of varying degrees of fibrillation. Labeling at the μmolar DTAF/g cellulose level imparted quantitative ppb fluorescence detection of CNFs (LOD of approximately 20 ppb), without significantly altering other material properties, suggesting that DTAF-labeled CNFs are an appropriate mimic for native CNFs and that this approach can be used to detect low CNF concentrations. Cold and hot-water extractions of laboratory papers (100 % CNFs and CNF-fiber blended papers) showed loss values below 3 wt% CNFs, with the finest CNF quality showing the least loss overall and with greater loss experienced under hot water conditions compared with cold water. DTAF-labeled CNFs can be used to address questions related to CNF distribution, localization, and loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA) is a rare but serious public health concern. We describe a VRSA case in North Carolina, USA. The isolate from the case belonged to the USA600 lineage and clonal complex 45. No transmission was identified. Confirmed VRSA cases should include a thorough investigation and public health response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses cases of Shigella infection with decreased susceptibility to azithromycin among men who have sex with men in the U.S. from 2002 to 2013. According to the authors, the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NAMS) has routinely measures the azithromycin minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for every 20th Shigella isolate submitted from public health laboratories to the CDC.

Bacteria of the genus Shigella cause approximately 500,000 illnesses each year in the United States. Diarrhea (sometimes bloody), fever, and stomach cramps typically start 1-2 days after exposure and usually resolve in 5-7 days. For patients with severe disease, bloody diarrhea, or compromised immune systems, antibiotic treatment is recommended, but resistance to traditional first-line antibiotics (e.g., ampicillin and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole) is common. For multidrugresistant cases, azithromycin, the most frequently prescribed antibiotic in the United States, is recommended for both children and adults. However, not all Shigellae are susceptible to azithromycin. Nonsusceptible isolates exist but are not usually identified because there are no clinical laboratory guidelines for azithromycin susceptibility testing. However, to monitor susceptibility of Shigellae in the United States, CDC's National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS) has, since 2011, routinely measured the azithromycin minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for every 20th Shigella isolate submitted from public health laboratories to CDC, as well as outbreak-associated isolates. All known U.S. Shigella isolates with decreased susceptibility to azithromycin (DSA-Shigella), and the illnesses caused by them, are described in this report. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on cow's milk have mainly focused on analyzing specific chemical groups and natural components. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated if effect-based in vitro methods could be used as a screening tool to monitor chemical hazards in milk. In total, 32 milk samples were collected from a Swedish dairy company throughout one year. These samples included conventional and organic semi-skimmed as well as raw milk. The milk samples were tested in five in vitro methods covering eight endpoints. These endpoints included cytotoxicity, endocrine disruption (estrogen/androgen induction/inhibition), aryl hydrocarbon receptor activity, oxidative stress and DNA damage. Estrogen and androgen receptor inhibition, in addition to aryl hydrocarbon receptor activity, were the most responsive endpoints, where 10 to 13 out of the 32 milk samples were bioactive. Organic and conventional milk showed no major differences. Overall, no or only low activities were observed in milk samples in the remaining in vitro assays, which is a promising result with regard to applying effect-based methods as a screening tool. Concerning the most responsive assays, more research is needed to understand the normal background variations before they can be used as a screening tool for chemical hazards in milk. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To explore experiences of what it means to be a young, female Sami reindeer herder in Sweden, a group occupying a unique position in Swedish Sami life, with special focus on intersectionality and exposure to risk factors regarding mental (ill) health. Methods: A qualitative content analysis of semi-structured interviews with 13 strategically selected female reindeer herders (18-35 years old). Results: The participants described a reindeer-herding lifestyle that they find joyful and vital, but is also conflictual and harsh. Genderspecific issues were raised, for example that they unfortunately and unnecessarily have a place other than the heart of reindeer herding reserved for them. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that the position of women reindeer herders is paradoxical. This position implies not only a pride in Sami culture but also a risk of developing mental health problems which should be addressed in relation to gender, the reindeer-herding lifestyle and ethnicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From an increased use of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) as an antibacterial in consumer products follows a need to assess the environmental interaction and fate of their possible dispersion and release of silver. This study aims to elucidate an exposure scenario of the Ag NPs potentially released from, for example, impregnated clothing by assessing the release of silver and changes in particle properties in sequential contact with synthetic sweat, laundry detergent solutions, and freshwater, simulating a possible transport path through different aquatic media. The release of ionic silver is addressed from a water chemical perspective, compared with important particle and surface characteristics. Released amounts of silver in the sequential exposures were significantly lower, approximately a factor of 2, than the sum of each separate exposure. Particle characteristics such as speciation (both of Ag ionic species and at the Ag NP surface) influenced the release of soluble silver species present on the surface, thereby increasing the total silver release in the separate exposures compared with sequential immersions. The particle stability had no drastic impact on the silver release as most of the Ag NPs were unstable in solution. The silver release was also influenced by a lower pH (increased release of silver), and cotransported zeolites (reduced silver in solution). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Healthcare-associated carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) infections are a serious threat associated with global epidemic clones and a variety of carbapenemase gene classes. In this study, we describe the molecular epidemiology, including whole-genome sequencing analysis and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of 92 selected, nonredundant CRAB collected through public health efforts in the United States from 2013 to 2017. Among the 92 isolates, the Oxford (OX) multilocus sequence typing scheme identified 30 sequence types (STs); the majority of isolates (n = 59, 64%) represented STs belonging to the international clonal complex 92 (CC92OX). Among these, ST208OX (n = 21) and ST281OX (n = 20) were the most common. All isolates carried an OXA-type carbapenemase gene, comprising 20 alleles. Ninety isolates (98%) encoded an intrinsic OXA-51-like enzyme; 67 (73%) harbored an additional acquired blaOXA gene, most commonly blaOXA-23 (n = 45; 49%). Compared with isolates harboring only intrinsic oxacillinase genes, acquired blaOXA gene presence was associated with higher prevalence of resistance and a higher median minimum inhibitory concentration to the carbapenem imipenem (64 μg/mL vs. 8 μg/mL), and antibiotics from other drug classes, including penicillin, aminoglycosides, cephalosporins, and polymyxins. These data illustrate the wide distribution of CC92OX and high prevalence of acquired blaOXA carbapenemase genes among CRAB in the United States. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Most Campylobacter infections are self-limiting but antimicrobial treatment (e.g., macrolides, fluoroquinolones) is necessary in severe or prolonged cases. Susceptibility testing continues to play a critical role in guiding therapy and epidemiological monitoring of resistance. The methods of choice for Campylobacter recommended by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) are agar dilution and broth microdilution, while a disk diffusion method was recently standardized by the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST). Macrolides, quinolones, and tetracyclines are among the common antimicrobials recommended for testing. Molecular determination of Campylobacter resistance via DNA sequencing or PCR-based methods has been performed. High levels of resistance to tetracycline and ciprofloxacin are frequently reported by many national surveillance programs, but resistance to erythromycin and gentamicin in Campylobacter jejuni remains low. Nonetheless, variations in susceptibility observed over time underscore the need for continued public health monitoring of Campylobacter resistance from humans, animals, and food. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Skin infections are frequently caused by Staphylococcus aureus and can lead to a fatal sepsis. The microbial mechanisms controlling the initiation and progression from mild skin infection to a severe disseminated infection remain poorly understood. Using a combination of clinical data and in vitro and ex vivo assays, we show that staphylokinase, secreted by S. aureus, promoted the establishment of skin infections in humans and increased bacterial penetration through skin barriers by activating plasminogen. However, when infection was established, the interaction between staphylokinase and plasminogen did not promote systemic dissemination but induced the opening and draining of abscesses and decreased disease severity in neutropenic mice. Also, increased staphylokinase production was associated with noninvasive S. aureus infections in patients. Our results point out the dual roles of staphylokinase in S. aureus skin infections as promoting the establishment of infections while decreasing disease severity. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objective. The Reflux Symptom Questionnaire 7-day recall (RESQ-7) was developed, in line with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines, to address the need for a patient-reported outcome (PRO) instrument assessing symptoms specifically in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) who are only partially responsive to proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy. Materials and methods. The RESQ-7 was constructed using patient interviews and expert consensus. The instrument was psychometrically validated in a clinical trial setting in patients with persistent GERD symptoms despite PPI therapy. Results. Evaluation of content validity yielded a 13-item structure for the RESQ-7, incorporating symptoms overlooked by existing GERD questionnaires, such as hoarseness, cough, difficulty swallowing and burping. Principal component analysis suggested a four-domain structure. All domains had a high inter-item correlation (Cronbach's α lower 95% confidence limits: 0.77-0.87 for intensity; 0.72-0.82 for frequency). Test-retest reliability was fair-to-good or excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient lower 95% confidence limits: 0.70-0.78 for intensity; 0.65-0.75 for frequency). Convergent and discriminant validity were confirmed by correlation comparisons with the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale. Discussion. The RESQ-7 demonstrated good content validity and psychometric properties in patients with GERD and a partial response to PPIs. The weekly recall makes the RESQ-7 appropriate for use in routine clinical care. The authors believe that it is the first instrument to be developed specifically for patients with a partial response to PPI therapy in line with FDA guidelines on PROs (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00703534). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]