Optimized methods for the targeted surveillance of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing in human stool.

Understanding transmission pathways of important opportunistic, drug-resistant pathogens, such as extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing , is essential to implementing targeted prevention strategies to interrupt transmission and reduce the number of infections. To link transmission of ESBL-producing (ESBL-EC) between two sources, single-nucleotide resolution of strains, as well as diversity within and between samples, is required. However, the microbiological methods to best track these pathogens are unclear.

Artificial intelligence-based data extraction for next generation risk assessment: Is fine-tuning of a large language model worth the effort?

To underpin scientific evaluations of chemical risks, agencies such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) heavily rely on the outcome of systematic reviews, which currently require extensive manual effort. One specific challenge constitutes the meaningful use of vast amounts of valuable data from new approach methodologies (NAMs) which are mostly reported in an unstructured way in the scientific literature. In the EFSA-initiated project 'AI4NAMS', the potential of large language models (LLMs) was explored.

Robust Detection of Critical Events in the Context of Railway Security Based on Multimodal Sensor Data Fusion.

Effective security surveillance is crucial in the railway sector to prevent security incidents, including vandalism, trespassing, and sabotage. This paper discusses the challenges of maintaining seamless surveillance over extensive railway infrastructure, considering both technological advances and the growing risks posed by terrorist attacks. Based on previous research, this paper discusses the limitations of current surveillance methods, particularly in managing information overload and false alarms that result from integrating multiple sensor technologies.

β-lactamase expression induces collateral sensitivity in Escherichia coli.

Major antibiotic groups are losing effectiveness due to the uncontrollable spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes. Among these, β-lactam resistance genes -encoding β-lactamases- stand as the most common resistance mechanism in Enterobacterales due to their frequent association with mobile genetic elements. In this context, novel approaches that counter mobile AMR are urgently needed.