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Objectives We performed a retrospective analysis of MRSA isolates collected at the university equine clinic including clinical isolates from 2008 to 2021 and screening environmental, equine and personnel isolates from 2016. Methods Screening and clinical samples were cultured on Brilliance MRSA 2 and Columbia agar (Oxoid), respectively, with enrichment for environmental samples. Antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed by disc diffusion. All the isolates were characterized by spa typing. Eighteen selected isolates were subjected to WGS with subsequent wgMLST clonal analysis. Results Among 75 MRSA isolates, five spa types were identified, the majority (n  = 67; 89.33%) was t011. All isolates were resistant to cefoxitin and ampicillin and carried the mecA gene. In addition, the isolates were resistant to tetracycline (n  = 74; 98.67%), gentamicin (n  = 70; 93.33%), enrofloxacin (n  = 54; 72.00%), sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (n  = 5; 6.67%) and lincomycin (n  = 3; 4.00%) with corresponding genetic markers for the resistance detected in the sequenced isolates. All 18 sequenced isolates belonged to ST398, 16 carried SCC mec type IVa and two carried SCC mec type Vc (5C2&5). Further, isolates carried aur , hlgA , hlgB and hlgC virulence genes, and five isolates carried sak and scn genes, which are part of the immune evasion cluster. Close genetic relatedness was found between isolates from the staff of the clinic and clinical samples of horses. Conclusions Repeated introduction and long-term persistence of the equine LA-MRSA subclone (ST398-MRSA-IVa/Vc(5C2&5), t011) among the infected horses at the equine clinic with the colonization of personnel, and the environment contamination that might contribute to transmission were observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral biotherapeutics hold significant promise, but their lack of controllability and targeting poses a major challenge, particularly for intestinal bacterial biotherapeutics. In response, we have developed a nanoencapsulation approach that responds to the release of enzyme activity in the organism and activates the enzyme in situ, allowing for controlled colonization of microbes in the gut. The nano-coating comprises a two-layer structure: an inner layer of polydopamine with photothermal and adhesive properties, and an outer layer of gelatin–sodium carboxymethylcellulose, which is hydrolyzed by cellulases in the gut following photothermal interaction with dopamine. We have successfully achieved controlled colonization of a wide range of microorganisms. Furthermore, in a diabetes model, this approach has had a profound impact on regulating glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) production, β-cell physiology, and promoting insulin secretion. This nanocoating is achieved by in situ activation of cellulase without the need for genetic or targeted molecular modification, representing a new paradigm and alternative strategy for microbial therapy. It not only enables precise and controlled colonization of probiotics but also demonstrates great potential for broader application in the field of oral biotherapy. We have developed a nano-encapsulation method that triggers enzyme activity in response to enzymatic activity, resulting in the controlled release and adhesion of a wide range of microorganisms in the gut. The nano coating comprises two layers: an inner layer of polydopamine with photothermal and adhesion properties, and an outer layer of a gelatin-sodium carboxymethylcellulose polymer, which can be hydrolyzed by cellulases in the intestine. Additionally, this method allows for the preparation of various microbial coatings. This approach holds significant promise for regulating GLP-1 production, the physiological function of pancreatic β-cells, and promoting insulin secretion in diabetes models. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Childhood is considered crucial in the establishment of future oral microbiota. However, the precise period of oral microbiota development remains unclear. This study aimed to identify the progression of oral microbiota formation in children. We longitudinally investigated the salivary microbiota of 54 children across 13 time points from 1 wk to 60 mo (5 y) old and their parents at 2 time points as a representative sample of the adult microbiota. Using next-generation sequencing, we obtained 10,000 gene sequences of the 16s rRNA V1-V2 region for each sample. The detection rate in children of 110 operational taxonomic units commonly detected in more than 85% of mothers and fathers, defined as the main constituent bacteria, was 25% at 1 wk old, increased to 80% between 6 and 18 mo old, and reached approximately 90% by 36 mo old. Early main constituent bacteria detected at 1 wk old were limited to Streptococcus, Rothia, and Gemella. At 6 to 18 mo old, the detection rates of various main constituent bacteria, including Neisseria, Haemophilus, and Fusobacterium, increased. UniFrac distance analysis showed that the oral microbiota of children approached that of adults at 6 to 18 mo old. In the weighted UniFrac distance index, unlike the unweighted index, there were no significant changes in children between 36 and 60 mo old from adults, and microbiota formation at 60 mo old was sufficiently advanced to be included within the range of adult individual differences. Our findings suggest that the initial 36 mo, particularly the period from 6 to 18 mo old, consists of a time window for oral microbiota maturation. In addition, the development of microbiota during this period may be critical for future oral disease prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To analyse the biliary pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) of continuous infusion (CI) meropenem-vaborbactam (MEM-VBM) in a case series of orthotopic liver transplant (OLT) recipients being treated for Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (KPC-Kp) related biliary tract infections (BTIs) or as preemptive therapy of KPC-Kp rectal colonization. Methods Critical OLT recipients receiving CI MEM-VBM (2 g/2 g q8h over 8 h) because of KPC-Kp related BTIs or as preemptive therapy of KPC-Kp rectal colonization, having Kehr's tube positioned and undergoing simultaneous therapeutic drug monitoring of MEM and VBM in plasma and bile were retrospectively assessed. Bile-to-plasma ratio of free steady-state concentrations (f Css) of MEM and VBM was used for assessing biliary penetration. Optimal joint MEM-VBM PK/PD target attainment was defined as MEM f Css/MIC ratio >4 coupled with VBM free area under time–concentration curve (f AUC)/threshold concentration (CT) ratio >24. Results Overall, four critical OLT recipients were included. Median bile-to-plasma ratio was 0.32 for MEM (range 0.21–0.79) and 0.40 for VBM (range 0.20–0.77). Biliary MEM-VBM joint PK/PD target attainment was optimal in 3/4 OLT recipients and quasi-optimal in the other one. Conclusions The 1:1 proportion between MEM and VBM concentrations was maintained unchanged in the bile, allowing us to assume that the efficacy of MEM-VBM may be appropriate even in the treatment of BTIs. CI administration was an effective strategy for attaining aggressive biliary joint PK/PD targets against pathogens with an MIC up to 2 mg/L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) bloodstream infections (BSIs) are a major threat to patients. To date, data on risk factors have been limited, with low internal and external validity. In this multicentre study, risk factors for CRE BSI were determined by comparison with two control groups: patients with carbapenem-susceptible Enterobacterales (CSE) BSI, and patients without Enterobacterales infection (uninfected patients). Methods A multicentre, case-control-control study was nested in a European prospective cohort study on CRE (EURECA). CRE BSI:CSE BSI matching was 1:1, CRE BSI:Uninfected patients matching was 1:3, based on hospital, ward and length of stay. Conditional logistic regression was applied. Results From March 2016 to November 2018, 73 CRE BSIs, 73 CSE BSIs and 219 uninfected patients were included from 18 European hospitals. For CRE versus CSE BSI, previous CRE colonization/infection [incidence rate ratio (IRR) 7.32; 95% CI 1.65–32.38) increased the risk. For CRE versus uninfected controls, independent risk factors included: older age (IRR 1.03; 95% CI 1.01–1.06), patient referral (long-term care facility: IRR 7.19; 95% CI 1.51–34.24; acute care hospital: IRR 5.26; 95% CI 1.61–17.11), previous colonization/infection with other MDR organisms (MDROs) (IRR 9.71; 95% CI 2.33–40.56), haemodialysis (IRR 8.59; 95% CI 1.82–40.53), invasive procedures (IRR 5.66; 95% CI 2.11–15.16), and β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor combinations (IRR 3.92; 95% CI 1.68–9.13) or third/fourth generation cephalosporin (IRR 2.75; 95% CI 1.06–7.11) exposure within 3 months before enrolment. Conclusions Evidence of previous CRE colonization/infection was a major risk factor for carbapenem resistance among Enterobacterales BSI. Compared with uninfected patients, evidence of previous MDRO colonization/infection and healthcare exposure were important risk factors for CRE BSI. Targeted screening, infection prevention and antimicrobial stewardship should focus on these high-risk patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Bacteria, as the major component of the human microbiome, have been shown to play important physiological roles in human health and disease development. However, a growing body of research suggests that fungi, which make up less than 1% of the human microbiome, also have a significant impact on human health, particularly in early life. Fungal colonization is strongly associated with the onset of future childhood diseases such as infectious diseases, allergic diseases, and intestinal diseases. Factors influencing early life, such as mode of birth and use of antibiotics, may be involved in the development of related diseases by affecting fungal colonization, but more research is needed to summarize this. This article reviews the characteristics of the fungal composition in the first 1 000 days of life, the related factors influencing the colonization of the early life fungal community, and the association between fungal dysbiosis and childhood diseases, providing a reference for the prevention and control of related childhood diseases.

Abnormal microbial colonization of the gut from birth in newborns affects growth, development, and health, leading to short- and long-term adverse effects. The microbiota of preterm infants differs from that of term infants. This is because preterm infants and their mothers have more complicated prenatal and postnatal health conditions and anatomically- functional immaturity of organs and systems depending on gestational age. Maternal conditions, antibiotics, type of feeding, and use of probiotics can significantly affect the gut microbiota of preterm infants in the early neonatal period; however, these effects decrease with age. Although some factors and processes are difficult to intervene or avoid, understanding the potential factors and determinants will help to develop timely strategies to promote a healthy gut microbiota in preterm infants. This review discusses potential determinants of gut microbial colonization in preterm infants, the underlying mechanisms, and recommendations for addressing adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tracheostomy is a surgical procedure in an emergency setting to relieve the upper airway obstruction by creating an opening in the anterior part of trachea. It can also be done electively to wean off from a ventilator, during an elective surgery and clearance of pulmonary secretions. This study was a retrospective analysis of microbiological profile, antibiotic sensitivity & resistance pattern in patients with a tracheostomized wound. A retrospective review of the microbiological profiles of all adult patients who underwent a tracheostomy was conducted between May 2022 and May 2023 at our hospital. Based on the tracheostomy indications, patients were allocated under obstructed and non-obstructed group. Any patient with at least one positive sample was followed up quarterly for a year. The first culture result obtained was recorded at least one month following the last antibiotic dose in each quarter. Out of the 65 tracheal aspirate results obtained from 58 patients (mean age, 57.5 ± 16.48 years), the most common procedure and indications were surgical tracheostomy (72.4%) and non-obstructed causes (74.1%), respectively. Moreover, 47.7% of the culture results indicated Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which showed significantly different proportions across the quarters (p = 0.006). Among obstructed patients, P. aeruginosa was the most common (35%), followed by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA; 23.5%). The colonization was predominantly by gram negative bacteria Acinetobacter species, P. aeruginosa & Klebsiella pneumoniae and fungal species like Candida albicans followed by Aspergillus niger and non-Albicans candida. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While some streams have dense populations of aquatic detritivorous isopods, research on the colonization of leaf packs typically focuses on aquatic insects. To determine whether shifts in dominant local forest species might impact isopod populations, we placed leaf packs of red/sugar maple, American beech, and red oak on the substratum of riffles and pools in Cedar Creek (Allentown, PA, USA) in April 2019. We retrieved the packs after one week, re-deployed them, and re-collected them after two weeks of submersion, enumerating the number of isopods (Lirceus sp.) upon each retrieval. Surprisingly, neither the species of leaf nor the stream microhabitat significantly affected the number of isopods. However, the duration of leaf conditioning was important; significantly more isopods inhabited leaves after two weeks of submersion than after only one week. Maple and oak leaves displayed significantly more skeletonization after two weeks than the beech leaves, which remained intact. However, the similar numbers of isopods across leaf species suggest either the presence of acceptable, consumable microbial communities on all three species of leaves or that a tradeoff exists between the value of food and the importance of refuge provided by intact leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To assess risk factors for carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CR) and extended-β-lactam-resistant P. aeruginosa (EBR) infection/colonization, and to develop and compare tools for predicting isolation of CR and EBR from clinical cultures. Methods This retrospective study analysed hospitalized patients with positive P. aeruginosa cultures between 2015 and 2021. Two case–control analyses were performed to identify risk factors and develop scoring tools for distinguishing patients with CR versus carbapenem-susceptible (CS) P. aeruginosa and EBR versus CS P. aeruginosa. The performance of institutionally derived scores, externally derived scores and the presence/absence of key risk factors to predict CR and EBR were then compared. Results A total of 2379 patients were included. Of these, 8.3% had a positive culture for CR, 5.0% for EBR and 86.7% for CS P. aeruginosa. There was substantial overlap in risk factors for CR and EBR. Institutional risk scores demonstrated modestly higher area under the ROC curve values than external scores for predicting CR (0.67 versus 0.58) and EBR (0.76 versus 0.70). Assessing the presence/absence of ≥1 of the two strongest predictors (prior carbapenem use or CR isolation within 90 days) was slightly inferior to scoring tools for predicting CR, and comparable for predicting EBR. Conclusions Clinicians concerned about CR in P. aeruginosa should consider the likelihood of EBR when making treatment decisions. A simple approach of assessing recent history of CR isolation or carbapenem usage performed similarly to more complex scoring tools and offers a more pragmatic way of identifying patients who require coverage for resistant P. aeruginosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionPatients with otitis media (OM) encounter significant functional hearing impairment with conductive, or a combined hearing loss and long-term sequelae involving impaired speech/language development in children, reduced academic achievement and irreversible disorders of middle and inner ear requiring a long time therapy and/or multiple surgeries. In its persistent chronic form, Otitis media (COM) can often only be treated by undergoing ear surgery for hearing restoration. The persistent inflammatory reaction plays a major role, often caused by multi-resistant pathogens in the ear. Herein, we present outcomes of patients implanted with currently the only FDA approved active Middle Ear Implant Vibrant Soundbridge (VSB), suffering from persistent COM.MethodsThe study enrolled 42 patients, treated by performing middle ear (ME) surgery to different extents and implanted with the VSB to various structures in the ME. Included were 17 children and 25 adults that had recurrent and/or persisting OM and significant hearing loss. Preoperative and postoperative patients' audiometric data were evaluated and the benefit with VSB assessed using the Glasgow Benefit Inventory for adults and pediatric cohorts. The microbial spectrum of pathogens was assessed before and after surgery, exploring the colonization of the otopathogens, as well as the intestinal microbiome from individually burdened patients.ResultsThe mean functional gain is 29.7 dB HL (range from 10 to 56.2 dB HL) with a significant improvement in speech intelligibility in quiet. Following VSB implantation, no significant differences in coupling were observed at low complication rates. Postoperatively patients showed significantly increased benefit with VSB compared to the untreated situation, including less otorrhea, pain, medical visits, and medication intake, with no recurrent OM and significant bacterial shift in otopathogens. The analysis of the intestinal microbiome displayed a high abundance of bacterial strains that might be linked to chronic and persistent inflammation.ConclusionsFunctional ear surgery including rehabilitation with a VSB in patients suffering from COM present to be safe and effective. The successful acceptance accompanied by the improved audiological performance resulted in significant benefit with VSB, with a shift in the ear pathogens and altered microbiome and thus is a great opportunity to be treated.

It is indisputable that microplastics (MPs) can profoundly alter nitrogen transformation in soil. However, it remains poorly understood how MPs impact soil nitrogen processes. This review systematically analyzed literature published in recent years related to the impact of MPs on nitrogen transformation. After reviewing the environmental behavior of MPs in soil media, the mechanisms of action and key factors of MPs’ effects on soil nitrogen transformation are elucidated. The size, shape, concentration, and type of MPs significantly alter nitrogen transformation. When MPs enter the soil, they can significantly affect the habitat and diversity of soil microorganisms and the transformation of soil nitrogen by adsorbing pollutants, releasing additives, and altering the physicochemical characteristics of the soil. As organic substrates, MPs can directly affect microbial community structure by promoting microbial colonization. Besides, MPs can also be toxic to soil microorganisms by coming into direct contact with cell surfaces. Microorganisms, key enzymes, and functional genes associated with nitrogen transformation respond to the presence of MPs, thereby affecting the nitrogen conversion process. At the last, measures to mitigate soil MPs contamination are suggested. The article highlights the effects of MPs on soil nitrogen transformation factors, leading to valuable insights into microbially-mediated nitrogen transformation processes in MP-contaminated soils. It offers useful information for determining nitrogen regulation and assessing ecological risks in soils contaminated by MPs.

While some streams have dense populations of aquatic detritivorous isopods, research on the colonization of leaf packs typically focuses on aquatic insects. To determine whether shifts in dominant local forest species might impact isopod populations, we placed leaf packs of red/sugar maple, American beech, and red oak on the substratum of riffles and pools in Cedar Creek (Allentown, PA, USA) in April 2019. We retrieved the packs after one week, re-deployed them, and re-collected them after two weeks of submersion, enumerating the number of isopods (Lirceus sp.) upon each retrieval. Surprisingly, neither the species of leaf nor the stream microhabitat significantly affected the number of isopods. However, the duration of leaf conditioning was important; significantly more isopods inhabited leaves after two weeks of submersion than after only one week. Maple and oak leaves displayed significantly more skeletonization after two weeks than the beech leaves, which remained intact. However, the similar numbers of isopods across leaf species suggest either the presence of acceptable, consumable microbial communities on all three species of leaves or that a tradeoff exists between the value of food and the importance of refuge provided by intact leaves.

Abnormal microbial colonization of the gut from birth in newborns affects growth, development, and health, leading to short- and long-term adverse effects. The microbiota of preterm infants differs from that of term infants. This is because preterm infants and their mothers have more complicated prenatal and postnatal health conditions and anatomically-functional immaturity of organs and systems depending on gestational age. Maternal conditions, antibiotics, type of feeding, and use of probiotics can significantly affect the gut microbiota of preterm infants in the early neonatal period; however, these effects decrease with age. Although some factors and processes are difficult to intervene or avoid, understanding the potential factors and determinants will help to develop timely strategies to promote a healthy gut microbiota in preterm infants. This review discusses potential determinants of gut microbial colonization in preterm infants, the underlying mechanisms, and recommendations for addressing adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This comprehensive review delves into the forefront of research on the human oral microbiome, exploring recent advancements that span microbial colonization, state-of-the-art detection methodologies, and the complex interplay involved in disease progression. Through an exhaustive analysis of the contemporary literature, we illuminate the dynamic orchestration of microbial communities within the oral cavity, underscoring their pivotal role in health and disease. Cutting-edge detection techniques, including metagenomics and high-throughput sequencing, are discussed regarding their transformative impact on understanding the intricacies of oral microbial ecosystems. As we stand on the cusp of a new decade, this review anticipates a paradigm shift in the field, emphasizing the potential for rapid identification and targeted management of detrimental oral microorganisms. Insights gained from this exploration not only contribute to our fundamental understanding of the oral microbiome but also hold promise for the development of innovative therapeutic strategies to maintain oral health. This article aims to serve as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and public health professionals engaged in unraveling the mysteries of the microbial symphony within the human oral cavity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early life microbial colonizers shape and support the immature vertebrate immune system. Microbial colonization relies on the vertical route via parental provisioning and the horizontal route via environmental contribution. Vertical transmission is mostly a maternal trait making it hard to determine the source of microbial colonization in order to gain insight into the establishment of the microbial community during crucial development stages. The evolution of unique male pregnancy in pipefishes and seahorses enables the disentanglement of both horizontal and vertical transmission, but also facilitates the differentiation of maternal versus paternal provisioning ranging from egg development, to male pregnancy and early juvenile development. Using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and source-tracker analyses, we revealed how the distinct origins of transmission (maternal, paternal and horizontal) shaped the juvenile internal and external microbiome establishment in the broad-nosed pipefish Syngnathus typhle. Our data suggest that transovarial maternal microbial contribution influences the establishment of the juvenile gut microbiome whereas paternal provisioning mainly shapes the juvenile external microbiome. The identification of juvenile key microbes reveals crucial temporal shifts in microbial development and enhances our understanding of microbial transmission routes, colonization dynamics and their impact on lifestyle evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) are an urgent public health threat in the United States. Objective Describe the clinical and molecular epidemiology of CRE in a multicenter pediatric cohort. Methods CRACKLE-1 and CRACKLE-2 are prospective cohort studies with consecutive enrollment of hospitalized patients with CRE infection or colonization between 24 December 2011 and 31 August 2017. Patients younger than age 18 years and enrolled in the CRACKLE studies were included in this analysis. Clinical data were obtained from the electronic health record. Carbapenemase genes were detected using polymerase chain reaction and whole-genome sequencing. Results Fifty-one children were identified at 18 healthcare system study sites representing all U.S. census regions. The median age was 8 months, with 67% younger than age 2 years. Median number of days from admission to culture collection was 11. Seventy-three percent of patients had required intensive care and 41% had a history of mechanical ventilation. More than half of children had no documented comorbidities (Q1, Q3 0, 2). Sixty-seven percent previously received antibiotics during their hospitalization. The most common species isolated were Enterobacter species (41%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (27%), and Escherichia coli (20%). Carbapenemase genes were detected in 29% of isolates tested, which was lower than previously described in adults from this cohort (61%). Thirty-four patients were empirically treated on the date of culture collection, but only 6 received an antibiotic to which the CRE isolate was confirmed susceptible in vitro. Thirty-day mortality was 13.7%. Conclusions CRE infection or colonization in U.S. children was geographically widespread, predominantly affected children younger than age 2 years, associated with significant mortality, and less commonly caused by carbapenemase-producing strains than in adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diagnosis of nontuberculous mycobacterial infections is challenging in pediatric solid organ transplant and hematopoietic cell transplant recipients due to the absence of specific clinical manifestations, limitations of sampling, prolonged times for culture and identification, and difficulty discerning colonization from clinical disease. Treatment is dependent on the nontuberculous mycobacterial species, disease type, and pattern of drug resistance. Treatment of nontuberculous mycobacterial infections involves prolonged durations of therapy using multiple medications, which are limited by toxicities and drug–drug interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Many hospitals caring for adult patients have discontinued the requirement for contact precautions (CP) for patients with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection or colonization without reported negative effects. It is not clear whether this experience can be extrapolated to pediatric facilities. Methods CP for MRSA were discontinued in all locations except the neonatal intensive care unit at a 3-hospital pediatric healthcare system in September 2019. All hospitalized patients underwent surveillance for LabID healthcare facility-onset MRSA infections. Analysis was done using interrupted time series (ITS) from September 2017 through August 2023 and aggregate before-and-after rate ratios. Results There were 234 incident healthcare facility-onset MRSA infections during 766 020 patient days of surveillance. After discontinuation of CP for MRSA there was no change in the ITS slope (0.06, 95% CI: −0.35 to 0.47, P  = .78) or intercept (0.21, 95% CI: −0.36 to 0.78, P  = .47) of the LabID healthcare facility-onset MRSA infection incidence density rate. Additionally, there was no change in the aggregate incidence density rate of these MRSA LabID events (aggregate rate ratio = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.74 to 1.28). MRSA nasal colonization among patients being screened before cardiac surgery did not change (aggregate rate ratio = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.60 to 1.48). The prevalence rate of contact isolation days decreased by 14.0%. Conclusions Discontinuation of CP for pediatric patients with MRSA was not associated with increased MRSA infection over 4 years. Our experience supports considering discontinuation of CP for MRSA in similar pediatric healthcare settings in the context of good adherence to horizontal infection prevention measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infections with Scedosporium spp. are emerging in the past two decades and are associated with a high mortality rate. Microbiological detection can be associated with either colonization or infection. Evolution from colonization into infection is difficult to predict and clinical management upon microbiological detection is complex. Microbiological samples from 2015 to 2021 were retrospectively analyzed in a single tertiary care center. Classification into colonization or infection was performed upon first microbiological detection. Clinical evolution was observed until July 2023. Further diagnostic procedures after initial detection were analyzed. Among 38 patients with microbiological detection of Scedosporium spp. 10 were diagnosed with an infection at the initial detection and two progressed from colonization to infection during the observation time. The main sites of infection were lung (5/12; 41.6%) followed by ocular sites (4/12; 33.3%). Imaging, bronchoscopy or biopsies upon detection were performed in a minority of patients. Overall mortality rate was similar in both groups initially classified as colonization or infection [30.7% and 33.3%, respectively (P  = 1.0)]. In all patients where surgical debridement of site of infection was performed (5/12; 42%); no death was observed. Although death occurred more often in the group without eradication (3/4; 75%) compared with the group with successful eradication (1/8; 12.5%), statistical significance could not be reached (P  = 0.053). As therapeutic management directly impacts patients' outcome, a multidisciplinary approach upon microbiological detection of Scedosporium spp. should be encouraged. Data from larger cohorts are warranted in order to analyze contributing factors favoring the evolution from colonization into infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Abnormal microbial colonization in the gut at an early stage of life affects growth, development, and health, resulting in short- and long-term adverse effects. Microbial colonization patterns of preterm infants differ from those of full-term infants in that preterm babies and their mothers have more complicated prenatal and postnatal medical conditions. Maternal complications, antibiotic exposure, delivery mode, feeding type, and the use of probiotics may significantly shape the gut microbiota of preterm infants at an early stage of life; however, these influences subside with age. Although some factors and processes are difficult to intervene in or avoid, understanding the potential factors and determinants will help in developing timely strategies for a healthy gut microbiota in preterm infants. This review discusses potential determinants of gut microbial colonization in preterm infants and their underlying mechanisms.

Treating anaerobic digestion (AD) slurry as industrial wastewater not only consumes a significant amount of energy but also wastes its inherent abundant nutrients, particularly the high ammonium content. Ammonia recovery from AD slurry has attracted attention in recent years and biochar has tentatively been used to adsorb ammonia nitrogen. However, most of the previous studies used pure ammonium chloride solution to simulate ammonia-rich wastewater and ignored the influence of other components. Furthermore, how the physico-chemical properties of biochar influence the adsorption performance of ammonia in AD slurry remains unknown. Therefore, this study focused on the investigation of the adsorption behavior of different types of biochar to ammonia nitrogen in AD slurry. Biochar generated from rice straw, coconut shell, and wood shaving under pyrolysis temperatures of 300 °C, 500 °C, and 700 °C were used to adsorb ammonia from food waste (FW) AD slurry, and five different particle sizes of biochar were also tested. The results showed that biochar derived from rice straw (up to 9.44 mg/g) and coconut shell (up to 8.86 mg/g) had higher ammonium adsorption capacity than biochar derived from wood shaving (up to 5.13 mg/g). Moreover, low pyrolysis temperature resulted in high adsorption capacity, while particle size and surface area of the biochar were not the critical factors determining the adsorption capacity. The correlation results demonstrated that the H/C (aromaticity), O/C (hydrophilicity), pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and ash content influenced the adsorption significantly. Based on the kinetics model results, it seems that physical adsorption was the main adsorption mechanism, while ion exchange and reaction with function groups also contributed to the adsorption. Moreover, the lower adsorption capacity was observed in this study where the real FW AD slurry was used as compared to other studies where pure ammonium chloride solution was used, which implied that microorganisms in FW AD slurry may colonize on the surface or pores of biochar, resulting in a negative effect on the adsorption capacity of biochar. The results derived from this study provided technical support for ammonia recovery of AD slurry.

Biopolymers (BP) are the unexploited eco–friendly microbial derivatives which regulate soil moisture and nutrient mobility. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted for two years (2017–18 and 2018–19) to determine the beneficial effects of BP in reducing nutrient stress and yield enhancement in turmeric. The study was laid out in a split-plot design with each of four levels of nutrients (control, 50%, 75%, and 100% of Recommended Dose of Nutrients; RDN) and BP (0, 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 kg ha–1). Results indicated that BP application (7.5 kg ha–1) significantly improved the soil moisture content (40.31%) and microbial colonization (total microbes, N fixers, and P solubilizers). As a result, combined application BP with either 75% or 100% of RDN enhanced the photosynthesis (22.95–24.50 μmol m−2 s−1) and lowered the canopy temperature (24.47–24.67°C) of turmeric. Thus, higher yield (7.05–7.82 t ha−1) and partial factor productivity were achieved. Supplementing BP with 100% RDN enhances the turmeric yield by up to 29–49% over 100% RDN alone. Therefore, biopolymer maintains the equivalent turmeric yield of 100% RDN even at 25–50% less nutrients in the nutrient-poor soils of semi-arid Tropics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neonatal calves have a limited capacity to initiate immune responses due to a relatively immature adaptive immune system, which renders them susceptible to many on-farm diseases. At birth, the mucosal surfaces of the intestine are rapidly colonized by microbes in a process that promotes mucosal immunity and primes the development of the adaptive immune system. In a companion study, our group demonstrated that supplementation of a live yeast probiotic, Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii (SCB) CNCM I-1079, to calves from birth to 1week of age stimulates secretory IgA (sIgA) production in the intestine. The objective of the study was to evaluate how SCB supplementation impacts the intestinal microbiota of one-week-old male calves, and how changes in the bacterial community in the intestine relate to the increase in secretory IgA. A total of 20 calves were randomly allocated to one of two treatments at birth: Control (CON, n=10) fed at 5g/d of carrier with no live yeast; and SCB (n=10) fed at 5g of live SCB per day (10×109CFU/d). Our study revealed that supplementing calves with SCB from birth to 1week of age had its most marked effects in the ileum, increasing species richness and phylogenetic diversity in addition to expediting the transition to a more interconnected bacterial community. Furthermore, LEfSe analysis revealed that there were several differentially abundant taxa between treatments and that SCB increased the relative abundance the family Eubacteriaceae, Corynebacteriaceae, Eggerthellaceae, Bacillaceae, and Ruminococcaceae. Furthermore, network analysis suggests that SCB promoted a more stable bacterial community and appears to reduce colonization with Shigella. Lastly, we observed that the probiotic-driven increase in microbial diversity was highly correlated with the enhanced secretory IgA capacity of the ileum, suggesting that the calf’s gut mucosal immune system relies on the development of a stable and highly diverse microbial community to provide the necessary cues to train and promote its proper function. In summary, this data shows that supplementation of SCB promoted establishment of a diverse and interconnected microbiota, prevented colonization of Escherichia Shigella and indicates a possible role in stimulating humoral mucosal immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Horses rely on specific functional groups in the microbial community in their gastrointestinal tract to digest fiber-rich feedstuffs such as hay and pasture. The microbial community is not fully functional at birth but changes and develops with age. The factors directing the development of the microbial community in the foal are not well understood. The consumption of maternal feces, coprophagy, is part of the normal behavior in the foal and may contribute to microbial colonization. To investigate coprophagy in foals, mares were fed an indigestible marker that was excreted in their feces. When the foals consumed maternal feces, the marker was detected in the foal's feces. The results suggest that coprophagy is important for the establishment of fibrolytic bacteria in the foals' gastrointestinal tract. Maternal feces are rich in fiber and live microbes, providing both a prebiotic and a probiotic to the foal. The consumption of maternal feces (coprophagy) is commonly observed in healthy foals and is a proposed contributor to microbial colonization of the foal's gastrointestinal tract (GIT). This study investigated the role of coprophagy in the establishment of fibrolytic bacteria in the foal GIT. Nine thoroughbred mares were dosed with chromic oxide, an indigestible marker, as a method to detect the occurrence of coprophagy by their foals. Foal fecal samples were collected from 12 h to 21 d after birth to measure chromic oxide and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and to enumerate cellulolytic bacteria using culture-based techniques. Milk yield was estimated at 7 and 14 d postpartum. Coprophagy was detected as early as 3 d after birth and detected in all foals by 7 d of age. There were strong relationships between coprophagy and cellulolytic bacteria and NDF in foal feces at 7 d of age (r = 0.9703 and r = 0.7878, respectively; p < 0.05). Fecal NDF and chromic oxide concentrations were negatively related to milk yield (r = –0.8144 and r = –0.6966, respectively; p < 0.05), suggesting milk availability affected the incidence of coprophagy. Based on the relationships identified, maternal feces are an important source of fiber and live microbes for the foal, contributing to the development of the microbial community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Changes in microbial community composition as a function of human health and disease states have sparked remarkable interest in the human gut microbiome. However, establishing reproducible insights into the determinants of microbial succession in disease has been a formidable challenge. Results Here we use fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) as an in natura experimental model to investigate the association between metabolic independence and resilience in stressed gut environments. Our genome-resolved metagenomics survey suggests that FMT serves as an environmental filter that favors populations with higher metabolic independence, the genomes of which encode complete metabolic modules to synthesize critical metabolites, including amino acids, nucleotides, and vitamins. Interestingly, we observe higher completion of the same biosynthetic pathways in microbes enriched in IBD patients. Conclusions These observations suggest a general mechanism that underlies changes in diversity in perturbed gut environments and reveal taxon-independent markers of “dysbiosis” that may explain why widespread yet typically low-abundance members of healthy gut microbiomes can dominate under inflammatory conditions without any causal association with disease.

Abstract Rationale Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a complicated chronic inflammatory disease. It is important to investigate the characteristics of acute exacerbation of COPD to develop new therapeutic strategies. Objective This study aimed to determine the relationship between the human beta-defensin-2 (hBD-2) levels and aggravation of COPD. Methods We detected the sputum hBD-2 level of 254 patients from Guangzhou, China, for 2 years. The study participants were categorized into the COPD group (n = 203, GOLD 0–4) and the control group (n = 51, 40–79 years old). At baseline, 12th month, and 24th month, we detected the sputum hBD-2 level and levels of cytokines, such as CXCL10, CXCL11, and IFN. Results At baseline, there were no significant differences in the sputum and serum hBD-2 levels between the patients and the controls. However, the sputum hBD-2 levels of patients who had at least one symptom aggravation over the next 2 years were significantly lower than those of patients without any exacerbations (1130.9 ± 858.4 pg/mL vs. 2103.7 ± 1294.2 pg/mL, respectively; p = 0.001). Nevertheless, there were no statistically significant differences in the sputum hBD-2 levels between patients (no aggravation history) and controls (2084.9 ± 1317.6 pg/mL vs. 2152.5 ± 1251.6 pg/mL, respectively; p = 0.626). We used a logistic regression model to assess the relationship between aggravation and sputum hBD-2 levels. Interestingly, we found that low hBD-2 level (

This study investigates the effect of yeast cell wall (YCW) supplementation and multispecies probiotics as alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) on the gut microbiota, immune function, and growth performance in weaned piglets. We utilized a randomized complete block design involving 160 piglets across four treatments during the nursery phase. The treatments administered throughout the experimental period were as follows: CONT+ = basal diet with Halquinol (AGP); YCW = basal diet with Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast cell wall at 1 kg/MT; SIM+ = basal diet with YCW at 0.5 kg/ MT + multispecies probiotic (Bacillus subtilis 2.0 x 10^9 CFU/g, Bacillus coagulans 5.0 x 10^8 CFU/g, Clostridium butyricum 5.0 x 10^7 CFU/g, and Bacillus licheniformis 2.0 x 10^9 CFU/g) at 0.6 kg/MT; SIM- = basal diet with YCW at 0.5 kg/MT + multispecies probiotic at 0.3 kg/MT. Methodologies include daily feed intake, body weight gain measurement, feed conversion ratio (FCR), diarrhea scoring, serum cytokine and chemokine concentration, and microbiome analysis. Throughout the study period (21 to 63 d), only FCR showed differences (P = 0.0076). CONT+ and YCW demonstrated better FCRs, at 1.543 and 1.585 respectively, without significant variation between them, while SIM- lagged with the least favorable outcome at 1.654 (Table 1). At 35 d, IL-10 concentrations were greatest in the SIM- group, showing a 271.25% increase compared with other treatments (Figure 2). At 49 d, IL-8 was least in the YCW group, with a 247% reduction compared with CONT+, while SIM+ and SIMshowed no significant differences compared with other treatments (Figure 1). The Firmicutes/Bacteroidota (F/B) ratio shows that the CONT+ treatment was inferior compared with the YCW, SIM+, and SIM- treatments (Figure 3). The Lactobacillaceae family differed between CONT+ and the YCW, SIM+, and SIMtreatments, with the greatest abundance in the SIM+ treatment, followed by SIM- and YCW (Figure 4). The genera Lactobacillus differed between the CONT+ treatment compared with the YCW, SIM+, and SIMtreatments. Prebiotics, whether used alone or combined with probiotics, serve as effective substitutes for AGPs, boosting the health and performance of piglets throughout the nursery phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This comprehensive review delves into the forefront of research on the human oral microbiome, exploring recent advancements that span microbial colonization, state-of-the-art detection methodologies, and the complex interplay involved in disease progression. Through an exhaustive analysis of the contemporary literature, we illuminate the dynamic orchestration of microbial communities within the oral cavity, underscoring their pivotal role in health and disease. Cutting-edge detection techniques, including metagenomics and high-throughput sequencing, are discussed regarding their transformative impact on understanding the intricacies of oral microbial ecosystems. As we stand on the cusp of a new decade, this review anticipates a paradigm shift in the field, emphasizing the potential for rapid identification and targeted management of detrimental oral microorganisms. Insights gained from this exploration not only contribute to our fundamental understanding of the oral microbiome but also hold promise for the development of innovative therapeutic strategies to maintain oral health. This article aims to serve as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and public health professionals engaged in unraveling the mysteries of the microbial symphony within the human oral cavity.

Neonatal calves have a limited capacity to initiate immune responses due to a relatively immature adaptive immune system, which renders them susceptible to many on-farm diseases. At birth, the mucosal surfaces of the intestine are rapidly colonized by microbes in a process that promotes mucosal immunity and primes the development of the adaptive immune system. In a companion study, our group demonstrated that supplementation of a live yeast probiotic, Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii (SCB) CNCM I-1079, to calves from birth to 1 week of age stimulates secretory IgA (sIgA) production in the intestine. The objective of the study was to evaluate how SCB supplementation impacts the intestinal microbiota of one-week-old male calves, and how changes in the bacterial community in the intestine relate to the increase in secretory IgA. A total of 20 calves were randomly allocated to one of two treatments at birth: Control (CON, n = 10) fed at 5 g/d of carrier with no live yeast; and SCB (n = 10) fed at 5 g of live SCB per day (10 × 109 CFU/d). Our study revealed that supplementing calves with SCB from birth to 1 week of age had its most marked effects in the ileum, increasing species richness and phylogenetic diversity in addition to expediting the transition to a more interconnected bacterial community. Furthermore, LEfSe analysis revealed that there were several differentially abundant taxa between treatments and that SCB increased the relative abundance the family Eubacteriaceae, Corynebacteriaceae, Eggerthellaceae, Bacillaceae, and Ruminococcaceae. Furthermore, network analysis suggests that SCB promoted a more stable bacterial community and appears to reduce colonization with Shigella. Lastly, we observed that the probiotic-driven increase in microbial diversity was highly correlated with the enhanced secretory IgA capacity of the ileum, suggesting that the calf’s gut mucosal immune system relies on the development of a stable and highly diverse microbial community to provide the necessary cues to train and promote its proper function. In summary, this data shows that supplementation of SCB promoted establishment of a diverse and interconnected microbiota, prevented colonization of Escherichia Shigella and indicates a possible role in stimulating humoral mucosal immunity.

Simple Summary: The collection of feces has several advantages when studying the development of the gut microbiome in piglets as feces are easy to collect and can be collected from the same animal several times. Sow milk is the major food for the piglet and microbes during the suckling phase. The introduction of creep feed during the suckling phase may modify age-related microbial development. Moreover, feces from healthy piglets can differ in consistency and color. Moreover, it can be difficult to always collect feces from very young piglets, in which cases rectal swab samples are often collected. These factors may be behind the variation in microbiome composition and total abundances among animals. We followed the developing microbiome in feces from day 2 to 34 of life in piglets that drank only sow milk or had additional access to creep feed during the suckling phase. Weaning took place on day 28. Results supported that age and nutrition during the suckling phase were major factors influencing total and relative microbial abundances. However, results also indicated that color, consistency and sample type should be considered as additional factors when studying the fecal microbiome in suckling and newly weaned piglets. Feces enable frequent samplings for the same animal, which is valuable in studies investigating the development of the gut microbiome in piglets. Creep feed should prepare the piglet's gut for the postweaning period and shape the microbiome accordingly. Little is known about the variation that is caused by differences in fecal color and consistency and different sample types (feces versus swab samples). Therefore, this study evaluated the age-related alterations in the microbiome composition (16S rRNA gene) in feces of suckling and newly weaned piglets in the context of nutrition and fecal consistency, color and sample type from day 2 to 34 of life. Feces from 40 healthy piglets (2 each from 20 litters) were collected on days 2, 6, 13, 20, 27, 30 and 34. Weaning occurred on day 28. Half of the litters only drank sow milk during the suckling phase, whereas the other half had access to creep feed from day 10. Creep feeding during the suckling phase influenced the age-related total bacterial and archaeal abundances but had less of an influence on the relative bacterial composition. Results further showed different taxonomic compositions in feces of different consistency, color and sample type, emphasizing the need to consider these characteristics in comprehensive microbiome studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abnormal microbial colonization in the gut at an early stage of life affects growth, development, and health, resulting in short- and long-term adverse effects. Microbial colonization patterns of preterm infants differ from those of full-term infants in that preterm babies and their mothers have more complicated prenatal and postnatal medical conditions. Maternal complications, antibiotic exposure, delivery mode, feeding type, and the use of probiotics may significantly shape the gut microbiota of preterm infants at an early stage of life; however, these influences subside with age. Although some factors and processes are difficult to intervene in or avoid, understanding the potential factors and determinants will help in developing timely strategies for a healthy gut microbiota in preterm infants. This review discusses potential determinants of gut microbial colonization in preterm infants and their underlying mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: An inadequate perinatal nutritional environment can alter the maturation of the intestinal barrier and promote long-term pathologies such as metabolic syndrome or chronic intestinal diseases. The intestinal microbiota seems to play a determining role in the development of the intestinal barrier. In the present study, we investigated the impact of consuming an early postnatal prebiotic fiber (PF) on growth, intestinal morphology and the microbiota at weaning in postnatal-growth-restricted mice (PNGR). Methods: Large litters (15 pups/mother) were generated from FVB/NRj mice to induce PNGR at postnatal day 4 (PN4) and compared to control litters (CTRL, 8 pups/mother). PF (a resistant dextrin) or water was orally administered once daily to the pups from PN8 to PN20 (3.5 g/kg/day). Intestinal morphology was evaluated at weaning (PN21) using the ileum and colon. Microbial colonization and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production were investigated using fecal and cecal contents. Results: At weaning, the PNGR mice showed decreased body weight and ileal crypt depth compared to the CTRL. The PNGR microbiota was associated with decreased proportions of the Lachnospiraceae and Oscillospiraceae families and the presence of the Akkermansia family and Enterococcus genus compared to the CTRL pups. The propionate concentrations were also increased with PNGR. While PF supplementation did not impact intestinal morphology in the PNGR pups, the proportions of the Bacteroides and Parabacteroides genera were enriched, but the proportion of the Proteobacteria phylum was reduced. In the CTRL pups, the Akkermansia genus (Verrucomicrobiota phylum) was present in the PF-supplemented CTRL pups compared to the water-supplemented ones. Conclusions: PNGR alters intestinal crypt maturation in the ileum at weaning and gut microbiota colonization. Our data support the notion that PF supplementation might improve gut microbiota establishment during the early postnatal period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofouling, the biological process leading to the accumulation of microorganisms, has been promoted for over a decade in aquaculture, particularly in biofloc technology, biofilm‐based systems and recently aquamimicry. However, the science behind biofouling is largely unknown in aquaculture. This document brings the science behind the biofouling process, reviews and analyses available information about the different phases of such a unique natural process. In aquatic or high humidity environments, substrata rapidly become colonized by microbes. After molecules form a thin film on any surface, bacterial adhesions occur and bacteria–bacteria, bacteria–eukaryotes and bacteria–substrate interactions take place; bacterial adhesion entails the production of adhesins and polysaccharides production. Coaggregation continues after irreversible adhesion, but the activated genes during the adhesion process associated with flagella and pili are suppressed in this stage. Throughout the process, bacteria communicate by excreting signalling or self‐inducing molecules, and other bacteria recognize these molecules that serve as a sort of checkpoint associated with their accumulation. Thereafter, the maturation phase is achieved and usually characterized by a colony equilibrium; some bacteria and other microorganisms achieve prominence in the colony, and many of the members have their functions and contributions to the microbial community. Finally, the detachment involves a complex but coordinated process involving several environmental signals, signal transduction pathways and effectors, promoting biofilm or biofloc split and dispersal to start the process again. In conclusion, biofouling is a complex, multifaceted process, but a deeper understanding of it and its consequent regulation would benefit microorganism‐based aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A common practice in hip arthroscopic surgery is the utilization of capsular traction sutures that can be incorporated into the capsular repair site at the end of the procedure, potentially seeding the hip joint with colonized suture material. Purpose: To investigate the rate of the microbial colonization of capsular traction sutures used during hip arthroscopic surgery and to identify patient-associated risk factors for this microbial colonization. Study Design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: A total of 50 consecutive patients who underwent hip arthroscopic surgery with a single surgeon were enrolled. There were 4 braided nonabsorbable sutures utilized for capsular traction during each hip arthroscopic procedure. These 4 traction sutures and 1 control suture were submitted for aerobic and nonaerobic cultures. Cultures were held for 21 days. Demographic information was collected, such as age, sex, and body mass index. All variables underwent bivariate analysis, and variables with a P value <.1 underwent further analysis in a multivariate logistic regression model. Results: One of 200 experimental traction sutures and 1 of 50 control sutures had a positive culture. Proteus mirabilis and Citrobacter koseri were isolated in both these positive experimental and control cultures from the same patient. Age and traction time were not significantly associated with positive cultures. The rate of microbial colonization was 0.5%. Conclusion: The rate of the microbial colonization of capsular traction sutures used in hip arthroscopic surgery was low, and no patient-associated risk factors were identified for microbial colonization. Capsular traction sutures used in hip arthroscopic surgery were not a significant potential source of microbial contamination. Based on these results, capsular traction sutures can be incorporated in capsular closure with a low risk of seeding the hip joint with microbial contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a complicated chronic inflammatory disease. It is important to investigate the characteristics of acute exacerbation of COPD to develop new therapeutic strategies. Objective: This study aimed to determine the relationship between the human beta-defensin-2 (hBD-2) levels and aggravation of COPD. Methods: We detected the sputum hBD-2 level of 254 patients from Guangzhou, China, for 2 years. The study participants were categorized into the COPD group (n = 203, GOLD 0–4) and the control group (n = 51, 40–79 years old). At baseline, 12th month, and 24th month, we detected the sputum hBD-2 level and levels of cytokines, such as CXCL10, CXCL11, and IFN. Results: At baseline, there were no significant differences in the sputum and serum hBD-2 levels between the patients and the controls. However, the sputum hBD-2 levels of patients who had at least one symptom aggravation over the next 2 years were significantly lower than those of patients without any exacerbations (1130.9 ± 858.4 pg/mL vs. 2103.7 ± 1294.2 pg/mL, respectively; p = 0.001). Nevertheless, there were no statistically significant differences in the sputum hBD-2 levels between patients (no aggravation history) and controls (2084.9 ± 1317.6 pg/mL vs. 2152.5 ± 1251.6 pg/mL, respectively; p = 0.626). We used a logistic regression model to assess the relationship between aggravation and sputum hBD-2 levels. Interestingly, we found that low hBD-2 level (< 1000 pg/mL) was significantly associated with exacerbations. Specifically, patients with low hBD-2 levels were more likely to experience exacerbations in the next 12 months (0.333 vs. 0.117; p = 0.001). Moreover, we compared the hBD-2 levels between controls and patients with GOLD 3–4 and found that participants with bacteria (+) and/or viruses (+) had an association between hBD-2 level and disease severity (p = 0.02). Conclusion: Patients at risk of exacerbations are more likely to have lower sputum hBD-2 levels. These results have important implications for future therapies for COPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro/nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) are a growing threat to environmental health as these particles are dispersed to remote locations. However, the migration process of NPs differs from MPs due to their differences in sizes and physicochemical properties, thereby inducing different environmental behaviours and fates. While MPs provide surfaces to host microorganisms to form a plastisphere, NPs are smaller than microorganisms, which are often encapsulated by protein or organic matter to form unique eco-corona. Both plastisphere and eco-corona alter the physiochemical property of MPs/NPs, thereby changing their environmental toxicity. To fully understand the toxicity of MPs/NPs after forming plastisphere or eco-corona, this review aims to evaluate the roles and toxicities of MPs/NPs in the environment. Specifically, this review discusses the formation of plastisphere on MPs and eco-corona on NPs, summarizes the biochemical mechanisms of toxicity of MPs/NPs, and assesses their potential health threats to humans. Finally, perspectives are provided to better manage plastic pollution to protect the environment and human health.

Plants are colonized by myriads of microbes across kingdoms, which affect host development, fitness, and reproduction. Hence, plant microbiomes have been explored across a broad range of host species, including model organisms, crops, and trees under controlled and natural conditions. Tomato is one of the world's most important vegetable crops; however, little is known about the microbiota of wild tomato species. To obtain insights into the tomato microbiota occurring in natural environments, we sampled epiphytic microbes from leaves of four tomato species, Solanum habrochaites, S. corneliomulleri, S. peruvianum, and S. pimpinellifolium, from two geographical locations within the Lima region of Peru over 2 consecutive years. Here, a high-throughput sequencing approach was applied to investigate microbial compositions including bacteria, fungi, and eukaryotes across tomato species and geographical locations. The phyllosphere microbiome composition varies between hosts and location. Yet, we identified persistent microbes across tomato species that form the tomato microbial core community. In addition, we phenotypically defined healthy and dysbiotic samples and performed a downstream analysis to reveal the impact on microbial community structures. To do so, we compared microbial diversities, unique OTUs, relative abundances of core taxa, and microbial hub taxa, as well as co-occurrence network characteristics in healthy and dysbiotic tomato leaves and found that dysbiosis affects the phyllosphere microbial composition in a host species-dependent manner. Yet, overall, the present data suggests an enrichment of plant-promoting microbial taxa in healthy leaves, whereas numerous microbial taxa containing plant pathogens occurred in dysbiotic leaves. Concluding, we identify the core phyllosphere microbiome of wild tomato species, and show that the overall phyllosphere microbiome can be impacted by sampling time point, geographical location, host genotype, and plant health. Future studies in these components will help understand the microbial contribution to plant health in natural systems and can be of use in cultivated tomatoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bronchial asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide and affects more than 300 million patients. Allergic asthma affects the majority of asthmatic children as well as approximately 50% of adult asthmatics. It is characterized by a Th2-mediated immune response against aeroallergens. Many aspects of the overall pathophysiology are known, while the underlying mechanisms and predisposing factors remain largely elusive today. Over the last decade, respiratory colonization with Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), a Gram-positive facultative bacterial pathogen, came into focus as a risk factor for the development of atopic respiratory diseases. More than 30% of the world's population is constantly colonized with S. aureus in their nasopharynx. This colonization is mostly asymptomatic, but in immunocompromised patients, it can lead to serious complications including pneumonia, sepsis, or even death. S. aureus is known for its ability to produce a wide range of proteins including toxins, serine-protease-like proteins, and protein A. In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge about the pathophysiology of allergic asthma and to what extent it can be affected by different toxins produced by S. aureus. Intensifying this knowledge might lead to new preventive strategies for atopic respiratory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infections in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) remain one of the major causes for morbidity and mortality, and it is still unclear whether knowledge of microbial colonization is important. In this single-center study, we collected weekly surveillance cultures in pediatric recipients of allogenic HSCT from five different body regions and tested for bacteria and fungi. Between January 2010 and December 2021, we collected 1095 swabs from 57 recipients of allogeneic HSCTs (median age: 7.5 years, IQR 1–3: 2.5–11.9). The incidence of positive microbiological cultures (n = 220; 20.1%) differed according to the anatomic localization (p < 0.001) and was most frequent in the anal region (n = 98), followed by the genital, pharyngeal and nasal regions (n = 55, n = 37 and n = 16, respectively). Gram-positive bacteria (70.4%) were the most commonly isolated organisms, followed by fungi (18.6%), Gram-negative (5.5%), non-fermenting bacteria (1.4%), and other flora (4.1%). No association with increased risk of infection (n = 32) or septicemia (n = 7) was noted. Over time, we did not observe any increase in bacterial resistance. We conclude that there is no benefit to surveillance of microbial colonization by culture-based techniques in pediatric HSCT. Sequencing methods might enhance the detection of pathogens, but its role is still to be defined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Early-onset sepsis is an important cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality in the preterm population. Infants perceived to be at increased risk for early-onset sepsis are often treated empirically with broad-spectrum antibiotics while awaiting confirmatory blood cultures, despite an overall incidence of early-onset sepsis of 2–3% among extremely-low-birthweight (ELBW) infants. Recent observational studies associate perinatal antibiotic use with an increased incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis, late-onset sepsis, and mortality among ELBW infants. Given currently available data and variability in clinical practice, we designed a prospective multi-institutional randomized controlled trial to determine the safety of early antibiotic use in ELBW infants. Methods The NICU Antibiotics and Outcomes (NANO) trial is a multicenter, double-blinded, randomized controlled trial. A sample of 802 ELBW preterm infants will undergo web-based stratified block randomization to receive empiric antibiotics (EA; ampicillin and gentamicin) or placebo during routine evaluation for early-onset sepsis. Participating sites will use preexisting institutional protocols for antibiotic dosage and duration. Infants born at participating sites with a gestational age of 29 weeks or less are eligible for enrollment. Exclusion criteria include maternal intrauterine infection, hemodynamic or respiratory instability, delivery by caesarean section for maternal indications without labor or prolonged rupture of membranes, and prior administration of antibiotics. The primary outcome is the composite incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis, late-onset sepsis, or death during participants’ index hospitalization. Maternal and infant samples will be collected longitudinally and assessed for differences in microbiome composition and diversity. Discussion The NANO trial is designed to compare the rate of adverse outcomes of EA use at birth versus placebo in ELBW preterm infants. If EA at birth worsens clinical outcomes, then the results of the trial may help providers decrease antibiotic utilization in the NICU and subsequently decrease the incidence of complications associated with early antibiotic use in ELBW infants. If we instead find that EA improve outcomes, then the trial will validate a longstanding clinical practice that has not previously been supported by high-quality data. Future studies will assess long-term clinical and microbial outcomes in infants who received empiric antibiotics following delivery. Trial registration Trial registration data: June 25, 2019 NCT03997266 .