bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behavioral activity patterns but not hair cortisol concentrations explain steers’ transition-related stress in the first 6 wk in the feedlot
Authors: Mijar Sanjaya , van der Meer Frank , Hodder Abigail , Pajor Ed , Orsel Karin
Published: August 2024

Stress during the transition of beef steers from ranch to feedlot may depend on steer source and preconditioning. The interplay between physiological and behavioral patterns of preconditioned (PC) and auction-derived (AD) steers, particularly after commingling, is poorly understood. Our objective was to evaluate whether hair cortisol (HC) concentrations were related to the health and performance of PC and AD steers and study behavioral activities after commingling over 6 wk in a feedlot. Steers, sourced either from ranch (PC, n = 250) or local auction (AD, n = 250), were assigned into 1 of 5 pens, 100% PC (100PC); 75% PC 25% AD (75PC); 50% PC 50% AD (50PC); 25% PC 75% AD (25PC), and 100% AD (0PC), each pen containing 100 steers. Pen was the experimental unit and individual steers were the observational unit where physiological and behavioral changes were measured. The study subsampled 225 steers (PC = 113 and AD = 112) which were equipped with CowManager ear tags to record behaviors. On day 40, hair samples from each steer were collected by clipping hair close to the skin. Data were analyzed using multiple linear, logistic regression, or multilevel negative binomial regression models depending on the outcomes. There was no difference in HC concentrations (day 40) between PC and AD steers (P = 0.66), and no association with Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD)-related morbidity (P = 0.08) or average daily gain (ADG) (P = 0.44). After adjusting for source and commingling effects, HC concentrations did not affect time spent eating (P = 0.83), ruminating (P = 0.20), active (P = 0.89), or non-active (P = 0.32). PC steers spent more time eating and ruminating over weeks 1 to 4 (P < 0.01) and weeks 1 to 3, respectively (P < 0.05), and more time being active over weeks 1 and 2 compared to AD steers (P < 0.001), but less time being non-active than AD steers on weeks 1 to 3 (P < 0.001). Steers in 100PC and 50PC pens spent more time eating than steers in 0PC (P < 0.001), whereas steers in 25PC spent less time eating than steers in 0PC (P < 0.001). Steers in 0PC spent the most time being not active (P < 0.01). In conclusion, preconditioned steers spent more time eating, ruminating, and being active and less time being not active over the first 3 wk in the feedlot, regardless of commingling. The HC concentrations did not identify potentially lower stress related to ranch transfer and were neither associated with BRD-related morbidity nor ADG.
Phytopathological management through bacteriophages: enhancing food security amidst climate change
Authors: Ul Haq Ihtisham , Khan Mehtab , Khan Imran
Published: August 2024

The increasing global population and climate change pose significant challenges to agriculture, particularly in managing plant diseases caused by phytopathogens. Traditional methods, including chemical pesticides and antibiotics, have become less effective due to pathogen resistance and environmental concerns. Phage therapy emerges as a promising alternative, offering a sustainable and precise approach to controlling plant bacterial diseases without harming beneficial soil microorganisms. This review explores the potential of bacteriophages as biocontrol agents, highlighting their specificity, rapid multiplication, and minimal environmental impact. We discuss the historical context, current applications, and prospects of phage therapy in agriculture, emphasizing its role in enhancing crop yield and quality. Additionally, the paper examines the integration of phage therapy with modern agricultural practices and the development phage cocktails and genetically engineered phages to combat resistant pathogens. The findings suggest that phage therapy could revolutionize phytopathological management, contributing to global food security and sustainable agricultural practices.

One-Sentence Summary

The burden of plant diseases and phage-based phytopathological treatment.
Tiny silver bullets: silver nanoparticles are insecticidal to Culicoides sonorensis (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) biting midge larvae
Authors: Osborne Cameron J , Norton Amie E , Whitworth R Jeff , Silver Kristopher S , Cohnstaedt Lee W
Published: August 2024

Insecticide formulations with safer environmental profiles and limited off-target effects are desirable to manage medical and veterinary pests. Silver nanoparticles are insecticidal against mosquitos, nonbiting midges, and other insects. The biting midge, Culicoides sonorensis Wirth and Jones, is a vector of agriculturally important pathogens in much of the United States, and this study aimed to examine the insecticidal properties of silver nanoparticles in larvae of this species. Mortality of third-instar larvae was assessed daily for 7 days after exposure to concentrations of silver nanoparticles, sorghum polymer particles, and hybrid silver–sorghum polymer particles. Both silver nanoparticles and silver–sorghum polymer particles were insecticidal, but sorghum polymer particles alone did not significantly contribute to larval mortality. Concentrations of 100 mg/liter of silver nanoparticles achieved >50% mortality at day 7, and 200 mg/liter treatments achieved >75% larval mortality within 24 h. The antimicrobial properties of silver nanoparticles were also examined, and culturable bacteria were recovered from larval-rearing media at 200 mg/liter but not at 400 mg/liter of silver nanoparticles. These data suggest that C. sonorensis larval mortality is primarily caused by silver nanoparticle toxicity and not by the reduction of bacteria (i.e., a larval food source). This work describes the first use of silver nanoparticles in C. sonorensis and shows the potential insecticide applications of these nanoparticles against this agricultural pest. The grain-polymer particles also successfully carried insecticidal silver nanoparticles, and their utility in loading diverse compounds could be a novel toxin delivery system for biting midges and similar pests.
Laparoscopic management of bowel perforation secondary to levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device migration: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Han Jeong Hee , Yu Eun Hee , Joo Jong Kil , Kim Min Ju , Choi Jung Bum , Jung Hyuk Jae , Jo Hong Jae , Lee Byoung Chul
Published: August 2024

Bowel perforation secondary to a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device is exceptionally rare. We present the case of a woman who exhibited abnormal findings during a colonoscopy examination. Despite undergoing an intrauterine device (IUD) insertion procedure for contraception in 2000, attempts for its removal in 2007 were unsuccessful due to the inability to locate the IUD. In 2022, she presented with intermittent hematochezia and lower left abdominal pain. Subsequent colonoscopy and abdominal computed tomography confirmed the presence of the IUD penetrating the uterine wall and entering the colon. Laparoscopic anterior resection was performed, and the patient’s postoperative recovery was uneventful, indicating the viability of laparoscopic treatment as a valuable option.
Thermal imaging for monitoring the treatment of hemangioma in pediatric patient: case report
Authors: Guerrero Marco E , Lacouture Natalia A , Manzur Ayala Ricardo
Published: August 2024

Pediatric hemangiomas are benign vascular malformations or angiodysplasias characterized by the proliferation of endothelial cells in blood vessels. Their incidence is 4%–10% in children under 1 year of age, and they most frequently occur on the head and neck [1, 2]. In addition to causing facial deformities, facial hemangiomas can lead to both functional and aesthetic issues, often resulting in significant complications. These complications negatively impact the quality of life for patients and can also affect the psychological well-being and self-esteem of their families [3]. With the expected global smartphone penetration reaching 70% [4], this case report explores the use of smartphones integrated with thermographic cameras to monitor the involution of hemangiomas during sclerosing treatment. This approach represents a promising advancement in managing and assessing hemangioma treatment through accessible, real-time monitoring technology.
Revising non-monotonic theories with sufficient and necessary conditions: the case of Defeasible Logic
Authors: Olivieri Francesco , Cristani Matteo , Governatori Guido , Pasetto Luca , Rotolo Antonino , Scannapieco Simone , Tomazzoli Claudio , Chekole Workneh Tewabe
Published: August 2024

In the setting of Defeasible Logic, we deal with the problem of revising and contracting a non-monotonic theory while minimizing the number of rules to be removed from the theory itself. The process is based on the notions of a set of rules being necessary and sufficient in order to prove a claim. The substantial difference among classical and non-monotonic reasoning processes makes this issue significant in order to achieve the correct revision processes. We show that the process is however computationally hard, and can be solved in polynomial time on non-deterministic machines.
Rebound Hyperthermia in Exertional Heat Stroke
Authors: DeHan Preston J , Flores Shelley A , Rhodehouse Blair B , Kaplan Joseph J , DeGroot David W
Published: August 2024

Exertional heat stroke (EHS) is a life-threatening condition requiring rapid reversal of hyperthermia to prevent poor health outcomes. Current treatment protocols aim for a cooling rate of 0.15 C/min using various modalities. This case report details a 22-year-old male who, despite initial successful cooling measures, experienced rebound hyperthermia, necessitating the use of endovascular cooling (EVC). The patient collapsed during a 19.3 km (12-mile) ruck march in Fort Moore, Georgia, with an initial core temperature of 41.6ºC. Conventional cooling methods, including ice sheets and chilled intravenous saline, adequately cooled the patient to target temperatures; however, discontinuation of cooling methods resulted in rebound hyperthermia. Endovascular cooling was eventually initiated, resulting in euthermia after 36 hours of continued use. During his hospital admission, the patient was evaluated thoroughly for underlying etiologies contributing to his rebound hyperthermia. This workup did not yield any concerning pathology, except for bilateral foot cellulitis noted on physical examination, which was subsequently managed with antibiotics. Despite initial complications, the patient recovered within 5 days and returned to duty after 2 months. Several case reports have been published regarding the use of EVC in the management of EHS. These reports, however, describe its use in initial management of EHS or in cases where hyperthermia was refractory to other conventional cooling methods. To our knowledge, this is the first report of its kind highlighting its successful implementation in rebound hyperthermia. Early recognition and initiation of cooling measures are critical in EHS cases. Future directions include developing EHS-specific EVC protocols for patients experiencing refractory or rebound hyperthermia.
The Clinical Impact of Time-restricted Eating on Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Stringer Eleah J , Cloke Rob W G , Van der Meer Lindsay , Murphy Rachel A , Macpherson Nicol A , Lum Julian J
Published: August 2024

Context

In the face of the growing global burden of cancer, there is increasing interest in dietary interventions to mitigate its impacts. Pre-clinical evidence suggests that time-restricted eating (TRE), a type of intermittent fasting, induces metabolic effects and alterations in the gut microbiome that may impede carcinogenesis. Research on TRE in cancer has progressed to human studies, but the evidence has yet to be synthesized.

Objective

The objective of this study was to systematically evaluate the clinical and/or metabolomic effects of TRE compared with ad libitum eating or alternative diets in people with cancer.

Data Sources

Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, CINAHL, Ovid Cochrane Central Register of Control Trials (CENTRAL), Web of Science Core Collection (ESCI, CPCI-SSH, CPCI-S), and SCOPUS were searched up to January 4, 2023, using the core concepts of “intermittent fasting” and “cancer.” Original study designs, protocols, and clinical trial registries were included.

Data Extraction

After evaluating 13 900 results, 24 entries were included, consisting of 8 full articles, 2 abstracts, 1 published protocol and 13 trial registries. All data were extracted, compared, and critically analyzed.

Data Analysis

There was heterogeneity in the patient population (eg, in tumor sites), TRE regimens (eg, degree of restriction, duration), and clinical end points. A high rate (67–98%) of TRE adherence was observed, alongside improvements in quality of life. Four articles assessed cancer markers and found a reduction in tumor marker carcinoembryonic antigen, reduced rates of recurrence, and a sustained major molecular response, following TRE. Five articles demonstrated modified cancer risk factors, including beneficial effects on body mass index, adiposity, glucoregulation, and inflammation in as short a period as 8 weeks. None of the completed studies assessed the effect of TRE on the microbiome, but analysis of the microbiome is a planned outcome in 2 clinical trials.

Conclusions

Preliminary findings suggest that TRE is feasible and acceptable by people with cancer, may have oncological benefits, and improves quality of life.

Registration

PROSPERO registration No. CRD42023386885.
AAV‐mouse DNase I sustains long‐term DNase I expression in vivo and suppresses breast cancer metastasis
Authors: Herre Melanie , Vemuri Kalyani , Cedervall Jessica , Nissl Stefanie , Saupe Falk , Micallef Jacob , Lindman Henrik , Maguire Casey A. , Tetz George , Tetz Victor , Olsson Anna‐Karin
Published: August 2024

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have been implicated in the pathology of various inflammatory conditions. In cancer, NETs have been demonstrated to induce systemic inflammation, impair peripheral vessel and organ function and promote metastasis. Here we show that the plasma level of NETs is significantly higher in patients with metastatic breast cancer compared to those with local disease, or those that were considered cured at a 5‐year follow‐up, confirming NETs as interesting therapeutic targets in metastatic breast cancer. Administration of DNase I is one strategy to eliminate NETs but long‐term treatment requires repeated injections and species‐specific versions of the enzyme. To enhance administration and therapeutic efficacy, we have developed an adeno‐associated virus (AAV) vector system for delivery of murine DNase I and addressed its potential to counteract cancer‐associated pathology in the murine MMTV‐PyMT model for metastatic mammary carcinoma. The AAV vector is comprised of capsid KP1 and an expression cassette encoding hyperactive murine DNase I (AAV‐mDNase I) under the control of a liver‐specific promotor. This AAV‐mDNase I vector could support elevated expression and serum activity of murine DNase I over at least 8 months. Neutrophil Gelatinase‐Associated Lipocalin (NGAL), a biomarker for kidney hypoperfusion that is upregulated in urine from MMTV‐PyMT mice, was suppressed in mice receiving AAV‐mDNase I compared to an AAV‐null control group. Furthermore, the proportion of mice that developed lung metastasis was reduced in the AAV‐mDNase I group. Altogether, our data indicate that AAV‐mDNase I has the potential to reduce cancer‐associated impairment of renal function and development of metastasis. We conclude that AAV‐mDNase I could represent a promising therapeutic strategy in metastatic breast cancer.
Using Assigned Peer Discussants to Enhance Engagement and Feedback for Student Presentations
Authors: Sharpe Elizabeth Li , Teall Alice M. , King Tara Spalla
Published: August 2024

Nursing students are frequently assigned to provide case or topical presentations in class. They are often nervous about presenting, which can distract them from learning from peers. Faculty introduced the role of the assigned discussant to enhance engagement and enable peer feedback in real time. After students presented a brief elevator-pitch style speech, peer discussants were instructed to respond following specific prompts to reflect on key takeaways and remaining questions. Faculty coached students to demonstrate focused, active listening skills and to provide quality feedback using this teaching-learning innovation. Students were enthusiastic about providing and receiving immediate, constructive collegial peer support.
Idiopathic Fusarium Sclerouveitis: A Case Report
Authors: Shetty Akaanksh , Baeza Drew , Amescua Guillermo , Galor Anat
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

To report a successfully managed case of idiopathic Fusarium sclerouveitis in a healthy patient with no identifiable risk factors.

Methods:

We describe a case of a 79-year-old man who presented with right-sided eye, facial, and head pain. Initial examination revealed temporal scleral thinning, inflammation, and anterior chamber cell/flare. Cultures were positive for Fusarium species.

Results:

The patient was treated with sub-Tenon amphotericin, intrascleral voriconazole, surgical debridement, Rose Bengal photodynamic therapy, systemic voriconazole and posaconazole, and topical natamycin. The infection resolved and the patient's visual acuity improved to 20/40.

Conclusions:

Fusarium sclerouveitis can occur without clear risk factors. This case highlights the importance of an aggressive, multimodal treatment approach for successful management.
A Modified 270 Degree Closure Technique to Address the Prominent or Locked-Out Premaxilla in Bilateral Cleft Palate Repair
Authors: Vargo James D. , Thurston Todd T. , Buchman Steven R.
Published: August 2024

The bilateral cleft deformity with a prominent or ‘locked-out’ premaxilla presents one of the most challenging repairs in cleft surgery. Despite its relative frequency, traditional hard palate repair techniques fail to fully address this deformity and expose surgeons to the risk of development of a large anterior fistula when flaps cannot approximate the premaxilla. This greatly increases morbidity for the patient and creates unnecessary challenges during fistula repair or alveolar cleft bone graft later in childhood. The 270° closure technique extends the nasal closure 270° around the premaxilla, continuing the hard palate repair through the alveolar clefts. This technique has been performed on 41 patients with mean follow up of 10.8 years. The repair was successful in 93% of patients with 3 patients developing palatal fistulae, all posterior to the 270° closure. The 270° cleft palate repair around the prominent premaxilla fills a void in the literature for managing the immense challenge of this deformity. When presurgical orthopedics are not a viable option, this approach can minimize the risk of large or complex fistula formation posterior to the premaxilla.
Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter on Computed Tomography Scans Reflects Elevated Intracranial Pressure in Patients with Craniosynostosis
Authors: Romeo Dominic J. , Sussman Jonathan H. , Massenburg Benjamin B. , Halverson Mark , Ng Jinggang J. , Wu Meagan , Liu Grant T. , Bartlett Scott P. , Taylor Jesse A. , Swanson Jordan W.
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Assessment for elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) helps guide interventional decision-making to treat craniosynostosis. However, non-invasive techniques for measuring ICP are limited. This study assesses whether optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) on low-dose computed tomography (CT) scans is associated with ICP in patients with craniosynostosis.

Methods:

Pediatric patients treated between 2014 and 2023 with craniosynostosis, intraoperative ICP measurements by direct subdural catheterization, and spectral domain-optical coherent tomography (SD-OCT) data were included. ONSD was retrospectively assessed on pre-operative CT scans by a masked neuroradiologist and compared to measures and proxies of ICP.

Results:

Among 132 patients included, median age was 6.9 years (IQR 4.7-9.5) and 41 (31.1%) had a syndromic diagnosis. Maximum ONSD (ONSDmax) was increased in patients with ICP≥15mmHg (6.1mm vs. 5.5mm, p<0.01) and ICP≥20mmHg (6.3mm vs. 5.6mm, p<0.01). Maximum (r=0.32, p<0.001), minimum (r=0.26, p=0.003), and average (r=0.29, p<0.001) ONSD correlated with direct ICP measurements. ONSD and SD-OCT measurements were also correlated (RNFLmax: r=0.21, p=0.04; RTmax: r=0.24, p=0.02). An ONSDmax threshold of 5.75mm demonstrated 65% sensitivity and 64% specificity for detecting ICP≥15mmHg on optimized receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Multivariable logistic regression generated an algorithm incorporating ONSDmax and age to detect ICP≥20mmHg with 64% sensitivity and 80% specificity.

Conclusion:

Optic nerve sheath diameter measured in low-dose CT scans detects elevated intracranial pressure with moderate accuracy, and precision increases when patient age is taken into consideration. Given the ease of accessing CT scan data, this may be a helpful ICP proxy for clinical decision-making.
Situations and Risk Factors of Unplanned Extubation of Nasogastric Tubes in Inpatients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Chang Wen-Pei , Lin Yen-Kuang
Published: August 2024

Objective

The aim of the study is to understand whether the risk factors of the unplanned extubation (UE) of nasogastric (NG) tubes vary among different inpatient situations.

Methods

Inpatients who experienced UE between 2009 and 2022 at a medical center were selected, and electronic medical records were used to collect patient background data and their conditions during UE. A total of 302 patients were included in our analysis.

Results

Conscious patients were at greater risk of UE when coughing, scratching their nose, blowing their nose, or sneezing than those who were confused (odds ratio [OR] = 0.07, P < 0.001) and those who were drowsy or comatose (OR = 0.15, P = 0.026). During activity, repositioning, bathing, or changing incontinence pads, the risk of UE was higher in patients whose hands were not restrained at the time of UE than in those whose hands were restrained (OR = 0.05, P = 0.004), higher in those with companions than in those without companions (OR = 7.78, P = 0.002), and higher in those with longer NG tube placement time (OR = 1.05, P = 0.008). Accidental extubation (OR = 2.62, P = 0.007) occurred more frequently during activity, repositioning, bathing, or changing incontinence pads.

Conclusions

There is an increased risk of UE in conscious patients during activity, repositioning, bathing, or changing incontinence pads. Patients inserted with an NG tube for a longer period of time were at greater risk of accidental extubation during activity, repositioning, bathing, or changing incontinence pads irrespective of whether a companion could aid them if their hands were or were not restrained.
Unique intestinal microflora and metabolic profile in different stages of hypertension reveal potential biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognosis
Authors: Yu Yaren , Zhu Jiayi , Fu Ruixue , Guo Lina , Chen Tao , Xu Zhaoyan , Zhang Jianyu , Chen Wensheng , Chen Lushi , Yang Xili
Published: August 2024

Introduction. Hypertension is the most prevalent chronic disease and a major risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.

Gap statement. However, there has been no substantial breakthrough in aetiology, new drug targets, and drug development of hypertension in recent 50 years.

Research aim. Therefore, this study was to screen unique intestinal microbiome and serum metabolic biomarkers which can early diagnose and track the prognosis of hypertension patients in different periods, and analyse its underlying mechanisms and functions.

Methods. Four groups of stool and serum samples, including healthy controls (HCs), prehypertension (PHT), hypertension (HT), and hypertension-related complications (HTC), were collected. Microbial diversity assessed using 16S rRNA sequencing. The metabolites in serum samples were detected through LC-MS/MS analysis.

Results. The composition of gut microbiota in patients exhibited dissimilarities compared to that in healthy subjects, which was distinguished by Prevotella, Slackia, Enterococcus, Bifidobacterium, and Lactobacillales may be potential markers for tracking the progression of hypertension, and Bifidobacterium, Butyricimonas, Adlercreutzia, Faecalibacterium, Lactobacillus, Ruminococcus, Clostridium, and Acidaminococcus demonstrated diagnostic value. Meanwhile, tracking the dynamic changes of deoxycholic acid, 4-oxododecanedioic acid, and l-arginine can serve as biomarkers for early diagnosis, and investigation into the mechanism by which the intestinal microbiome influences the onset and progression of hypertension. In terms of pathogenesis, the findings revealed that Bifidobacterium may caused the changes of AST, indirect bilirubin, ALT, triglyceride and uric acid by affecting metabolites cis-7-hexadecenoic acid methyl ester and N1-acetylspermidine. Additionally, Coprococcus may cause changes in albumin through the influence of androsterone enanthate.

Conclusions. These findings highlight that the unique intestinal microbiome and serum metabolic profile in different periods of hypertension will provide valuable insight for timely diagnosis and prognosis tracking in hypertension patients with promising clinical applications.
Genomic oropharyngeal Neisseria surveillance detects MALDI-TOF MS species misidentifications and reveals a novel Neisseria cinerea clade
Authors: de Block Tessa , De Baetselier Irith , Van den Bossche Dorien , Abdellati Saïd , Gestels Zina , Laumen Jolein Gyonne Elise , Van Dijck Christophe , Vanbaelen Thibaut , Claes Nathalie , Vandelannoote Koen , Kenyon Chris , Harrison Odile , Santhini Manoharan-Basil Sheeba
Published: August 2024

Introduction. Commensal Neisseria spp. are highly prevalent in the oropharynx as part of the healthy microbiome. N. meningitidis can colonise the oropharynx too from where it can cause invasive meningococcal disease. To identify N. meningitidis, clinical microbiology laboratories often rely on Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionisation Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS).

Hypothesis/Gap statement.
N. meningitidis may be misidentified by MALDI-TOF MS.

Aim. To conduct genomic surveillance of oropharyngeal Neisseria spp. in order to: (i) verify MALDI-TOF MS species identification, and (ii) characterize commensal Neisseria spp. genomes.

Methodology. We analysed whole genome sequence (WGS) data from 119 Neisseria spp. isolates from a surveillance programme for oropharyngeal Neisseria spp. in Belgium. Different species identification methods were compared: (i) MALDI-TOF MS, (ii) Ribosomal Multilocus Sequence Typing (rMLST) and (iii) rplF gene species identification. WGS data were used to further characterize Neisseria species found with supplementary analyses of Neisseria cinerea genomes.

Results. Based on genomic species identification, isolates from the oropharyngeal Neisseria surveilence study were composed of the following species: N. meningitidis (n=23), N. subflava (n=61), N. mucosa (n=15), N. oralis (n=8), N. cinerea (n=5), N. elongata (n=3), N. lactamica (n=2), N. bacilliformis (n=1) and N. polysaccharea (n=1). Of these 119 isolates, four isolates identified as N. meningitidis (n=3) and N. subflava (n=1) by MALDI-TOF MS, were determined to be N. polysaccharea (n=1), N. cinerea (n=2) and N. mucosa (n=1) by rMLST. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that N. cinerea isolates from the general population (n=3, cluster one) were distinct from those obtained from men who have sex with men (MSM, n=2, cluster two). The latter contained genomes misidentified as N. meningitidis using MALDI-TOF MS. These two N. cinerea clusters persisted after the inclusion of published N. cinerea WGS (n=42). Both N. cinerea clusters were further defined through pangenome and Average Nucleotide Identity (ANI) analyses.

Conclusion. This study provides insights into the importance of genomic genus-wide Neisseria surveillance studies to improve the characterization and identification of the Neisseria genus.
Microbial Primer: The catalytic biofilm matrix
Authors: Goltermann Lise , Shahryari Shahab , Rybtke Morten , Tolker-Nielsen Tim
Published: August 2024

The extracellular matrix of microbial biofilms has traditionally been viewed as a structural scaffold that retains the resident bacteria in the biofilm. Moreover, a role of the matrix in the tolerance of biofilms to antimicrobials and environmental stressors was recognized early in biofilm research. However, as research progressed it became apparent that the biofilm matrix can also be involved in processes such as bacterial migration, genetic exchange, ion capture and signalling. More recently, evidence has accumulated that the biofilm matrix can also have catalytic functions. Here we review foundational research on this fascinating catalytic role of the biofilm matrix.
Root Anatomical Imaging and Phenotyping in Maize
Authors: Sidhu Jagdeep Singh , Schneider Hannah M.
Published: August 2024

Root anatomy plays a crucial role in regulating essential processes such as the absorption and movement of water and nutrients in plants. Root anatomy also impacts the energy costs of building and sustaining root tissues, tissue mechanics, and interactions with other organisms. Although several studies in maize have confirmed the functional utility of numerous root anatomical traits, such as that of cortical cell size and number for stress adaptation, there have been significant obstacles in measuring and analyzing root anatomical characteristics. This has resulted in gaps in our understanding of the genetic control and range of phenotypic variations among different cultivars, and how this diversity relates to overall fitness. Here, we review root anatomical phenotypes in maize and their function in stress adaptation, and briefly discuss phenotyping methods available for root anatomy. We further introduce a simple and accessible phenotyping approach that enables a comprehensive investigation of maize root anatomy. Detailed characterization of root traits and the implementation of robust methods for root anatomical phenotyping could have wide-ranging benefits across various areas of plant science, from fundamental research to enhancing crop breeding efforts.
Optimizing high-temperature geothermal extraction through THM coupling: insights from SC-CO2 enhanced modeling
Authors: Zhang GuoLong
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the coupling effects between temperature, permeability and stress fields during the development of geothermal reservoirs, comparing the impacts of inter-well pressure differentials, reservoir temperature and heat extraction fluid on geothermal extraction.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs theoretical analysis and numerical simulation to explore the coupling mechanisms of temperature, permeability and stress fields in a geothermal reservoir using a thermal-hydrological-mechanical (THM) three-field coupling model.

Findings

The results reveal that the pressure differential between wells significantly impacts geothermal extraction capacity, with SC-CO2 achieving 1.83 times the capacity of water. Increasing the aperture of hydraulic and natural fractures effectively enhances geothermal production, with a notable enhancement for natural fractures.

Originality/value

The research provides a critical theoretical foundation for understanding THM coupling mechanisms in geothermal extraction, supporting the optimization of geothermal resource development and utilization.
A mixed methods study of influences on perceived budgeting accuracy in UK universities
Authors: Cropper Paul , Cowton Christopher
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The accuracy of budgeting is important to fulfilling its various roles. The aim of this study is to examine perceptions of budgeting accuracy in UK universities and to identify and understand the factors that influence them.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed methods research design comprising a questionnaire survey (84 responses, = 51.5%) and 42 semi-structured, qualitative interviews is employed.

Findings

The findings reveal that universities tend to be conservative in their budgeting, although previous financial difficulties, the attitude of the governing body and the need to convince lenders that finances are being managed competently might lead to a greater emphasis on a “realistic” rather than cautious budget. Stepwise multiple regression identified four significantly negative influences on perceived budgeting accuracy: the difficulty of forecasting student numbers; difficulties associated with allowing unspent balances to be carried forward; taking a relatively long time to prepare the budget; and the institution’s level of financial surplus. The interviews are drawn upon to both explain and elaborate on the statistical findings. Forecasting student numbers and associated fee income emerges as a particularly challenging and complex issue.

Research limitations/implications

Our regression analysis is cross-sectional and therefore based on correlations. Furthermore, the research could be developed by investigating the views of other parties as well as repeating the study in both the UK and overseas.

Practical implications

Implications for university management follow from the four factors identified as significant influences upon budget accuracy. These include involving the finance department in estimating student numbers, removing or controlling the carry forward of unspent funds, and reducing the length of the budget cycle.

Originality/value

The first study to examine the factors that influence the perceived accuracy of universities’ budgeting, this paper also advances understanding of budgeting accuracy more generally.
Subjective well-being of public relations and communication professionals in the context of perceived organisational support
Authors: Anton Anca
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine and analyse subjective well-being among public relations (PR) and communication professionals by looking at several factors: employer and employee engagement, work culture and relationships, work–life balance and conflict, job satisfaction, well-being and networking and perceived gender discrimination and sexual harassment. Additionally, we examine and discuss them in the context of perceived organisational support (POS) and management-mediated well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper examines several dimensions of well-being in the PR/comms industry in Romania: employer and employee engagement, work culture and relationships, work–life balance and conflict, job satisfaction, well-being and networking and perceived gender discrimination and sexual harassment. 117 adult respondents (male and female, full-time employed and freelancers, professionals from PR, advertising and corporate communications) filled-in a questionnaire developed within the EUPRERA Women in PR Network, which brings together communication and human resource (HR) perspectives.

Findings

The study revealed a gap between perceived and practical organisational support related to well-being. While emotional support is acknowledged, actionable support is less present. Gender-specific challenges, such as networking stress and sexual harassment, were more prevalent among women. Age and experience influenced job satisfaction, with mature professionals reporting higher satisfaction but more work encroachment into personal time. The characteristics of the industry, including its feminisation at both executive and managerial levels and the predominance of small businesses as market actors, underscore the need for tailored well-being strategies based on gender and age conditioned by organisational capabilities and resources.

Practical implications

The results can be used by PR and communication managers in Romania to better understand the perception of their employees regarding well-being and to develop organisational support systems.

Originality/value

This is the first study addressing well-being and POS in the PR and communication industries in Romania.
Riparian forests shape trophic interactions in detrital stream food webs
Authors: Oester Rebecca , Altermatt Florian , Bruder Andreas
Published: August 2024

Freshwater and terrestrial biodiversity are linked through spatial resource flows. Key examples are detrital subsidies from the riparian vegetation that form the base of food webs in small streams. Despite the central role of detritivores in these food webs, the consequences of altered riparian vegetation type and resource availability on their trophic strategies are less known.

Therefore, we experimentally tested direct and indirect effects of riparian vegetation type (i.e. riparian forests present vs. absent) on trophic interactions and dietary imbalances of aquatic detritivores. To characterise trophic strategies, we used stoichiometric and isotopic differences between consumers and resources as functional measures of trophic link strength in leaf litter bags naturally colonised by stream decomposers and detritivores.

Our results show that an absence of riparian forests affected stoichiometric and isotopic properties in stream detrital food webs. Where local riparian forests were absent, leaf litter showed lower C:N ratios, which only trichopteran detritivores mirrored, whereas plecopteran and crustacean detritivores showed differences in their isotopic signatures. Diverging patterns between resources and consumers could lead to a rewiring of energy flow paths and weaken the coupling between aquatic detritivores and terrestrial detritus.

Consequently, our findings demonstrate that riparian forests are essential for aquatic food webs by not only influencing organisms themselves but also their trophic interactions and energy flow paths. Aquatic detritivores depending on terrestrial subsidies can be highly sensitive to local changes in their resource environment. Therefore, functionally divergent patterns between resources and consumers in recipient systems highlight how habitat properties of the donor system can affect food webs connected across ecosystem boundaries.

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Constraints and demands interact to affect prey dietary reaction to predation
Authors: Shamir Weller N. D. , Raubenheimer D. , Hawlena D.
Published: August 2024

Prey alter their foraging when threatened by predators. Two mutually inclusive hypotheses explain this response. The first entails that defence behaviours to minimise exposure to predators prevent prey from achieving their preferred diet, while the second postulates that prey deliberately change their diet to fulfil new stress‐induced nutritional demands.

We combined field observations and laboratory experiments to determine which hypothesis dictates snail dietary responses to risk of beetle predation.

Snails exposed to predation‐risk reduced activity, increased climbing, increased respiration, ate distinctively to achieve a certain nutrient target, and preferred eating on the cage floor at the costs of nutritional imbalance and elevated risk.

When only carbohydrates‐rich food was on the floor, stressed snails reduced activity and foraged less, but when only protein‐rich food was on the floor snails increased activity and consumed more carbohydrates than their no‐risk conspecifics.

This outcome suggests that nutrient accessibility may determine which hypothesis governs the prey dietary reaction to predation risk.

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Are we making the most of safe staffing research
Authors: Steven Alison , Bernardes Rafael A. , Bianchi Monica , Cornally Nicola , Costa Ana Inês , Pursio Katja , Di Nitto Marco , Zanini Milko , Luiking Marie‐Louise
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The uptake of research evidence on staffing issues in nursing by nursing leadership, management and into organizational policies seems to vary across Europe. This study wants to assess this uptake of research evidence.

Design

Scoping survey.

Method

The presidents of twelve country specific Sigma Chapters within the European Region answered written survey questions about work organisation, national staffing levels, national skill mix levels, staff characteristics, and education.

Results

Seven of the 12 chapters could not return complete data, reported that data was unavailable, there was no national policy or only guidance related to some settings.

Conclusion

Enhancing the awareness of nursing research and of nursing leaders and managers regarding staffing level evidence is not enough. It seems necessary to encourage nurse leaders to lobby for staffing policies.

Clinical relevance

Research evidence on staffing issues in nursing and how it benefits health care is available. In Europe this evidence should be used more to lobby for change in staffing policies.
Subcycle dynamics of excitons under strong laser fields
Authors: Molinero Eduardo B. , Amorim Bruno , Malakhov Mikhail , Cistaro Giovanni , Jiménez-Galán Álvaro , Picón Antonio , San-José Pablo , Ivanov Misha , Silva Rui E. F.
Published: August 2024

Excitons play a key role in the linear optical response of two-dimensional (2D) materials. However, their role in the nonlinear response to intense, nonresonant, low-frequency light is often overlooked as strong fields are expected to tear the electron-hole pair apart. Using high-harmonic generation as a spectroscopic tool, we theoretically study their formation and role in the nonlinear optical response. We show that the excitonic contribution is prominent and that excitons remain stable even when the driving laser field surpasses the strength of the Coulomb field binding the electron-hole pair. We demonstrate a parallel between the behavior of strongly laser-driven excitons in 2D solids and strongly driven Rydberg states in atoms, including the mechanisms of their formation and stability. Last, we show how the excitonic contribution can be singled out by encapsulating the 2D material in a dielectric, tuning the excitonic energy and its contribution to the high-harmonic spectrum.
Synaptic rearrangement of NMDA receptors controls memory engram formation and malleability in the cortex
Authors: Bessières Benjamin , Dupuis Julien , Groc Laurent , Bontempi Bruno , Nicole Olivier
Published: August 2024

Initially hippocampal dependent, memory representations rely on a broadly distributed cortical network as they mature over time. How these cortical engrams acquire stability during systems-level memory consolidation without compromising their dynamic nature remains unclear. We identified a highly responsive “consolidation switch” in the synaptic composition of
N
-methyl-
d
-aspartate receptors (NMDARs), which dictates the progressive embedding and persistence of enduring memories in the rat cortex. Cortical GluN2B subunit–containing NMDARs were preferentially recruited upon encoding of associative olfactory memory to support neuronal allocation of memory engrams. As consolidation proceeds, a learning-induced redistribution of GluN2B subunit–containing NMDARs outward synapses increased synaptic GluN2A subunit contribution and enabled stabilization of remote memories. In contrast, synaptic reincorporation of GluN2B subunits occurred during subsequent forgetting. By manipulating the surface distribution of GluN2A and GluN2B subunit–containing NMDARs at cortical synapses, we uncovered that the rearrangement of GluN2B-containing NMDARs constitutes an essential tuning mechanism that determines the fate of cortical memory engrams and controls their malleability.
Nitrite reductase–mimicking catalysis temporally regulating nitric oxide concentration gradient adaptive for antibacterial therapy
Authors: Feng Yonghai , Yu Yi , Shi Hui , Bai Jiaxiang , Wang Liangliang , Yang Tianke , Liu Lei
Published: August 2024

The unique bacterial infection microenvironment (IME) usually requires complicated design of nanomaterials to adapt to IME for enhancing antibacterial therapy. Here, an alternative IME adaptative nitrite reductase–mimicking nanozyme is constructed by in situ growth of ultrasmall copper sulfide clusters on the surface of a nanofibrillar lysozyme assembly (NFLA/CuS NHs), which can temporally regulate nitric oxide (NO) gradient concentration to kill bacteria initially and promote tissue regeneration subsequently. Benefiting from a copper nitrite reductase (CuNIR)–inspired structure with CuS cluster as active center and NFLA as skeleton, NFLA/CuS NHs efficiently boost the catalytic reduction of nitrite to NO. The inherent supramolecular fibrillar networks displays excellent bacterial capture capability, facilitating initial high-concentration NO attacks on the bacteria. The subsequent catalytic release of low-concentration NO by NFLA/CuS NHs–mediated nitrite reduction remarkably promotes cell migration and angiogenesis. This work paves the way for dynamically eliminating MDR bacterial infection and promoting tissue regeneration in a simple and smart way through CuNIR-mimicking catalysis.
Ultrafast Proteomics
Authors: Fedorov Ivan I. , Protasov Sergey A. , Tarasova Irina A. , Gorshkov Mikhail V.
Published: August 2024

Current stage of proteomic research in the field of biology, medicine, development of new drugs, population screening, or personalized approaches to therapy dictates the need to analyze large sets of samples within the reasonable experimental time. Until recently, mass spectrometry measurements in proteomics were characterized as unique in identifying and quantifying cellular protein composition, but low throughput, requiring many hours to analyze a single sample. This was in conflict with the dynamics of changes in biological systems at the whole cellular proteome level upon the influence of external and internal factors. Thus, low speed of the whole proteome analysis has become the main factor limiting developments in functional proteomics, where it is necessary to annotate intracellular processes not only in a wide range of conditions, but also over a long period of time. Enormous level of heterogeneity of tissue cells or tumors, even of the same type, dictates the need to analyze biological systems at the level of individual cells. These studies involve obtaining molecular characteristics for tens, if not hundreds of thousands of individual cells, including their whole proteome profiles. Development of mass spectrometry technologies providing high resolution and mass measurement accuracy, predictive chromatography, new methods for peptide separation by ion mobility and processing of proteomic data based on artificial intelligence algorithms have opened a way for significant, if not radical, increase in the throughput of whole proteome analysis and led to implementation of the novel concept of ultrafast proteomics. Work done just in the last few years has demonstrated the proteome-wide analysis throughput of several hundred samples per day at a depth of several thousand proteins, levels unimaginable three or four years ago. The review examines background of these developments, as well as modern methods and approaches that implement ultrafast analysis of the entire proteome.