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Logistics today has been an integral part of the world, responsible for major trades of goods, medicines, products, and services. However, logistics face a big problem when it comes to goods that require a constant or a near about temperature to be maintained while being on the road. Using a temperature control system can help largely reduce the problem, thus saving time, money, and resources. The proposed container can be used to store temperature sensitive items such as medicines or general purpose/day to day items or food and beverages. In this paper, we discuss a temperature-controlled container that can be used to transport such temperature sensitive items. The main technology being used in the container would be thermoelectric Peltier (TEC). The container shall be user controlled via a keypad accompanied with several safety features such as over temperature protection, emergency shutdown button, display to view the current/set temperatures and have a docked/portable power supply system. The power supply and power converter for the board has been made completely in-house using detailed PCB's. Calculations for the power requirement and its efficiency have been discussed in depth. Such a product shall provide great help to logistics and medical industry. Material of the box (HDPE) could sustain wide temperature changes and the efficiency of the overall system was 70 percent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constructivism serves as a basic theory in education, and plays an important role, because this perspective views learning as a dynamic process in which students actively participate in constructing their knowledge. So, this research aims to produce a virtual laboratory that is valid and effective in developing constructivist thinking. This research and development use the Ploom approach which consists of initial investigation, design, construction/realization, testing, evaluation, revision, and implementation. Thirty-two electrical engineering students from Padang State University participated in this research. The instruments used are validity instruments and constructivism assessment tools. The research results show that the Proteus-based virtual laboratory developed is valid and effective in fostering constructivist thinking in electrical measurement practice. This study contributes to the advancement of virtual laboratories in educational settings, emphasizing the importance of constructivist pedagogy for meaningful and engaging learning experiences in the field of electrical engineering. The results of this research open opportunities for further research regarding the exploration of artificial intelligence to improve constructivism through virtual laboratories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avian cellulitis is one of the most important field problems facing the poultry sector. Sever financial losses resulted from the condemnation of the broiler carcasses infected with cellulitis lesions. In light of this, the current study was aimed to isolation and identification of the bacterial species causing cellulitis in broiler chickens in Dakahlia and Sharkia Governorates, Egypt. The bacterial isolates were tested for their antimicrobial susceptibility and molecular detection of some virulence and antimicrobial resistance genes. In addition to evaluate the antibacterial activity of quaternary ammonium compounds and glutaraldehyde (TH4 ®) against the bacterial isolates. Four bacterial species were isolated; E. coli, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa and Proteus mirabilis with percentages of (75%), (20%), (6%) and (5%) respectively. E. coli was recorded as the most predominant isolated bacteria in this study with12 different sero- groups (O1, O2, O26, O55, O78, O91, O121, O125, O126, O128, O153 and O158). E. coli O78 and O91 were the most prevalent identified sero- groups. The antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed higher resistances against doxycycline and ampicillin (95.6%), amoxicillin (90.7%), norfloxacin (84%), oxytetracycline (79.1%) and amikacin (71.6%) in E. coli, doxycycline (73.3%), oxytetracycline (80%),ampicillin(75%), streptomycin (80%), erythromycin (73.3%), and oxacillin (86.7%) in S. aureus, doxycycline (83.3%), oxytetracycline (77.8%), ampicillin (83.3%), amoxicillin (88.9%), neomycin (72.2%) and erythromycin (77.8%) in P. aeruginosa and doxycycline, oxytetracycline, ampicillin, amoxicillin, streptomycin and erythromycin (100% for each of them) in Proteus mirabilis. All isolated bacterial species were multidrug resistance (MDR). The molecular identification showed the detection of virulence genes: iutA in E. coli, nuc in S. aureus, toxA in P. aeruginosa and rsbA in Proteus mirabilis., with percentage of (100%). blaTEM, tetA (A), qnrA, tetK, mecA, aac(6') aph (2"), ereA and aada1 resistance genes were reported in this study. Quaternary ammonium compounds in combination glutaraldehyde (TH4 ®) with 2% concentration showed the highest antibacterial activity against the examined multidrug resistant bacterial isolates. These results suggested for application of 2% TH4 ® to achieve effective disinfectant programs in poultry farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: An increasing number of drugs are used each year in the treatment of small pets (cats and dogs), including medicines (cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones) used in human therapy. Aim: The purpose of this study was to isolate and explore the antibiotic resistance of opportunistic Enterobacteriaceae (E. coli, Klebsiella, Proteus, Citrobacter, Enterobacter) from cats and dogs, and to isolate resistance genes in the microorganisms. Methods: During 2021, 808 samples of biological material from small domestic animals were collected in veterinary clinics in Kostanay. From these, 210 microorganisms were isolated and identified. Results: A large majority of the strains sampled belonged to E. coli – 149 (70.9%), Enterobacter – 11 (5.2%), Klebsiella – 28 (13.3%), Proteus – 12 (5.7%) and 10 Citrobacter isolates (4.8%). In all isolates identified, antibiotic resistance/sensitivity was determined by disc-diffusion method to ampicillin, cefoxitin, gentamicin, levomycetin, tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, ofloxacin, cefoperazone, cefpodoxime, streptomycin, kanamycin, doxycycline, gemifloxacin, nalidixic acid, furazolidone, furadonine, amoxicillin and enrofloxacin. Conclusion: Study has demonstrated that the greatest number of Enterobacteriaceae were sensitive to the action of meropenem, which belongs to the group of beta-lactam antibiotics; resistance was demonstrated against tetracycline, doxycycline, ampicillin, amoxicillin, ofloxacin and cefpodoxime. The most common genes encoding antimicrobial resistance were as follows: BlaTEM and OXA in 41 and 28 isolates, respectively, encoding resistance to beta-lactams; StrA and StrB in 45 and 48 isolates encoding aminoglycosides; and tetA and tetB in 43 and 28 isolates encoding tetracyclines. Obtained data demonstrate that uncontrolled and frequent use of beta-lactam and tetracycline antibacterials, in cats and dogs, results in the spread of genotypic resistance among micro-organisms of the family Enterobacteriaceae. [Open Vet J 2024; 14(2.000): 604-616]

Objective: The gene cloning, protein expression, purification and activity analysis of a new type of Proteus vulgaris bacteriophage lyase Lys66 were performed. Methods: The whole gene sequence of bacteriophage was compared in the Genbank database. The gene sequence of lysase was excavated and cloned. The protein was expressed in Escherichia coli and was further purified to explore its antibacterial effect. Results: A gene sequence with high similarity to lyase was discovered through comparison, with a size of 393 bp. By using ExPAsy Bioinformatics Resource Portal, the lyase was predicted that its molecular weight was 15.20 kDa, the isoelectric point was 9.40, and it was composed of 130 amino acids. The whole optimized synthetic gene was constructed onto vector pET-32α to obtain the recombinant plasmid pET-32α-Lys66. The recombinant plasmid was transferred into competent cells of E. coli BL21 (DE3) to induce its expression. After purification and validation, 1.86 mg/mL Lys66 protein was obtained. The diameter of the bacteriostatic ring of Lys66 lyase on the plate was 19.30 mm. Thirteen Gram-negative bacteria out of 15 tested strains treated with chloroform showed lytic activity, with a wide host spectrum. When Lys66 (1.89 mg/mL) was used in combination with ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (1 mmol/L), the OD600 nm decreased by 0.61 after 2 h, indicating a good antibacterial effect. Conclusion: The recombinant lysase Lys66 expressed in this study had good antibacterial effects and could be used as a potential antibacterial agent.

Copyright of Science & Technology of Food Industry is the property of Science & Technology of Food Industry Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: An increasing number of drugs are used each year in the treatment of small pets (cats and dogs), including medicines (cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones) used in human therapy. Aim: The purpose of this study was to isolate and explore the antibiotic resistance of opportunistic Enterobacteriaceae (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, Proteus, Ci trobacter, Enterobacter) from cats and dogs, and to isolate resistance genes in the microorganisms. Methods: In 2021, 808 samples of biological material from small domestic animals were collected in veterinary clinics in Kostanay. From these, 210 microorganisms were isolated and identified. Results: A large majority of the strains sampled belonged to E. coli-149 (70.9%), Enterobacter-11 (5.2%), Klebsiella-28 (13.3%), Proteus-12 (5.7%) and 10 Citrobacter isolates (4.8%). In all isolates identified, antibiotic resistance/sensitivity was determined by disc-diffusion method to ampicillin, cefoxitin, gentamicin, levomycetin, tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, ofloxacin, cefoperazone, cefpodoxime, streptomycin, kanamycin, doxycycline, gemifloxacin, nalidixic acid, furazolidone, furadonine, amoxicillin, and enrofloxacin. Conclusion: The study has demonstrated that the greatest number of Enterobacteriaceae were sensitive to the action of meropenem, which belongs to the group of beta-lactam antibiotics; resistance was demonstrated against tetracycline, doxycycline, ampicillin, amoxicillin, ofloxacin, and cefpodoxime. The most common genes encoding antimicrobial resistance were as follows: BlaTEM and OXA in 41 and 28 isolates, respectively, encoding resistance to beta-lactams; StrA and StrB in 45 and 48 isolates encoding aminoglycosides; and tetA and tetB in 43 and 28 isolates encoding tetracyclines. Obtained data demonstrate that uncontrolled and frequent use of beta-lactam and tetracycline antibacterials, in cats and dogs, results in the spread of genotypic resistance among micro-organisms of the family Enterobacteriaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) presents a promising solution for achieving sustainable transportation and reducing carbon emissions. To keep pace with technological advancements in the vehicular industry, this paper proposes the development of a hybrid energy storage system (HESS) and an energy management strategy (EMS) for EVs, implemented using Proteus Spice Ver 8. The HESS consists of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) as the primary source and a supercapacitor (SC) as the secondary source. The EMS, integrated into an electronic board based on the STM32, utilizes a low-pass filter algorithm to distribute energy between the sources. The accuracy of the proposed PEMFC and SC models is validated by comparing Proteus simulation results with experimental tests conducted on the Bahia didactic bench and Maxwell SC bench, respectively. To optimize energy efficiency, simulations of the HESS system involve adjusting the hybridization rate through changes in the cutoff frequency. The analysis compares the state-of-charge (SOC) of the SC and the voltage efficiency of the fuel cell (FC), across different frequencies to optimize overall system performance. The results highlight that the chosen strategy satisfies the energy demand while preserving the FC's dynamic performance and optimizing its utilization to the maximum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bronchiectasis is irreversible bronchial dilation that can be congenital or acquired secondary to chronic airway obstruction. Feline bronchiectasis is rare and, to our knowledge, has not been reported previously in a non-domestic felid. An ~10-y-old female jungle cat (Felis chaus) was presented for evaluation of an abdominal mass and suspected pulmonary metastasis. The animal died during exploratory laparotomy and was submitted for postmortem examination. Gross examination revealed consolidation of the left caudal lung lobe and hila of the cranial lung lobes. Elsewhere in the lungs were several pale-yellow pleural foci of endogenous lipid pneumonia. On cut section, there was severe distension of bronchi with abundant white mucoid fluid. The remaining lung lobes were multifocally expanded by marginal emphysema. Histologically, ectatic bronchi, bronchioles, and fewer alveoli contained degenerate neutrophils, fibrin, and mucin (suppurative bronchopneumonia) with rare gram-negative bacteria. Aerobic culture yielded low growth of Proteus mirabilis and Escherichia coli. There was chronic bronchitis, marked by moderate bronchial gland hyperplasia, lymphoplasmacytic inflammation, and lymphoid hyperplasia. The palpated abdominal mass was a uterine endometrial polyp, which was considered an incidental, but novel, finding. Chronic bronchitis and bronchopneumonia should be considered as a cause of bronchiectasis and a differential diagnosis for respiratory disease in non-domestic felids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avian cellulitis is one of the most important field problems facing the poultry sector. Sever financial losses resulted from the condemnation of the broiler carcasses infected with cellulitis lesions. In light of this, the current study was aimed to isolation and identification of the bacterial species causing cellulitis in broiler chickens in Dakahlia and Sharkia Governorates, Egypt. The bacterial isolates were tested for their antimicrobial susceptibility and molecular detection of some virulence and antimicrobial resistance genes. In addition to evaluate the antibacterial activity of quaternary ammonium compounds and glutaraldehyde (TH4 ®) against the bacterial isolates. Four bacterial species were isolated; E. coli, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa and Proteus mirabilis with percentages of (75%), (20%), (6%) and (5%) respectively. E. coli was recorded as the most predominant isolated bacteria in this study with12 different sero- groups (O1, O2, O26, O55, O78, O91, O121, O125, O126, O128, O153 and O158). E. coli O78 and O91 were the most prevalent identified sero- groups. The antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed higher resistances against doxycycline and ampicillin (95.6%), amoxicillin (90.7%), norfloxacin (84%), oxytetracycline (79.1%) and amikacin (71.6%) in E. coli, doxycycline (73.3%), oxytetracycline (80%) ,ampicillin(75%), streptomycin (80%), erythromycin (73.3%), and oxacillin (86.7%) in S. aureus, doxycycline (83.3%), oxytetracycline (77.8%), ampicillin (83.3%), amoxicillin (88.9%), neomycin (72.2%) and erythromycin (77.8%) in P. aeruginosa and doxycycline, oxytetracycline, ampicillin, amoxicillin, streptomycin and erythromycin (100% for each of them) in Proteus mirabilis. All isolated bacterial species were multidrug resistance (MDR). The molecular identification showed the detection of virulence genes: iutA in E. coli, nuc in S. aureus, toxA in P.aeruginosa and rsbA in Proteus mirabilis., with percentage of (100%). blaTEM, tetA (A), qnrA, tetK, mecA, aac(6')aph (2''), ereA and aada1 resistance genes were reported in this study. Quaternary ammonium compounds in combination glutaraldehyde (TH4 ®) with 2% concentration showed the highest antibacterial activity against the examined multidrug resistant bacterial isolates. These results suggested for application of 2% TH4 ® to achieve effective disinfectant programs in poultry farms.

ABSTRAK Pencemaran air oleh logam berat terjadi akibat perkembangan industri seperti tekstil, electroplating, dan penyamakan kulit. Kromium (Cr) merupakan salah satu logam berat yang dihasilkan dengan tingkat toksisitas tinggi bagi makhluk hidup bahkan dalam konsentrasi rendah. Upaya penanggulangan yang ramah lingkungan dilakukan dengan metode bioremediasi dapat memanfaatkan kemampuan bakteri resisten logam berat. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengisolasi, mengidentifikasi, dan melakukan uji potensi reduksi logam berat kromium oleh bakteri laut resisten kromium. Penelitian ini menggunakan bahan sampel air laut, pasir Pantai Samas dan Pantai Pandansimo, media kultur Zobell marine broth 2216, serta logam berat K2Cr2O7. Langkah awal penelitian dilakukan dengan pengambilan sampel air laut dan pasir pantai. Selanjutnya dilakukan isolasi, seleksi, karakterisasi morfologi sel dan biokimia serta identifikasi bakteri resisten kromium untuk diuji potensi reduksinya. Hasil tiga isolat terseleksi memiliki kemampuan resistensi tertinggi terhadap kromium. Proses identifikasi menunjukkan bahwa dua isolat, yaitu PSAA1 dan SMCS21 diduga merupakan anggota genus Proteus, sedangkan satu isolat PSAA8 diduga merupakan anggota genus Micrococcus. Ketiga isolat bakteri PSAA8, SMCS21, dan PSAA1 menunjukkan kemampuan reduksi kromium dengan efisiensi reduksi secara berurutan sebesar 22.54%, 21.54%, dan 18.44%. Sehingga ketiga isolat bakteri laut disimpulkan memiliki potensi sebagai agen bioremediasi untuk mengurangi konsentrasi logam berat kromium dari lingkungan perairan. Kata kunci: Bakteri Laut, bioremediasi, kromium, Micrococcus, Proteus ABSTRACT Water pollution by heavy metals occurs as a result of industrial developments such as textiles, electroplating and leather tanning. Chromium (Cr) is one of the heavy metals that is produced with a high level of toxicity to living things even in low concentrations. Environmentally friendly countermeasures carried out by the bioremediation method can utilize the ability of heavy metal resistant bacteria. This study aims to isolate, identify, and test the potential reduction of chromium heavy metal by chromium-resistant marine bacteria. This study used seawater samples, sand from Samas Beach and Pandansimo Beach, culture media Zobell marine broth 2216, and heavy metal K2Cr2O7 solution. The initial step of the research was carried out by taking samples of seawater and beach sand. Furthermore, isolation, selection, morphological, cell and biochemical characterization were carried out as well as identification of chromium resistant bacteria to test their reduction potential. The results of the three selected isolates had the highest resistance ability to chromium. The identification process showed that two isolates, namely PSAA1 and SMCS21 were suspected to be members of the genus Proteus, while one isolate PSAA8 was suspected to be a member of the genus Micrococcus. The three bacterial isolates PSAA8, SMCS21, and PSAA1 showed the ability to reduce chromium with reduction efficiencies of 22.54%, 21.54%, and 18.44% respectively. So that the three marine bacterial isolates were concluded to have potential as bioremediation agents to reduce the concentration of the heavy metal chromium from the aquatic environment. Keywords: Bioremediation, chromium, marine Bacteria, Micrococcus, Proteus

Abstract Background Orthokeratology (OK) lens wear increases the risk of bacterial infection, but little is known about the microbiota of the conjunctival sac in myopic children wearing OK lenses. This study aimed to investigate the changes of conjunctival microbiota in children after treatment with OK lenses using 16 S rDNA sequencing. Methods Twenty-eight myopic children who had been continuously wearing OK lenses for 12 to 13 months were enrolled in this prospective study. Twenty-two gender- and age-matched myopic children who had not worn OK lenses or discontinued OK lens wear at least 1 year ago were recruited as controls. Conjunctival swabs from each participant were collected for exploration of the microbiota profiles, targeting the V3–V4 regions of the 16 S rRNA gene by MiSeq sequencing. The differences in the microbial community structure and diversity were also compared between groups. Results The bacterial alpha diversity indices in the OK lens group were not different from those in the non-wearer group (P > 0.05, Wilcoxon test), while beta diversity examined using principle coordinate analysis of unweighted UniFrac divided the two groups into different clusters. Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes were the abundant phyla in the conjunctival sac microbiota in both groups (P 0.7500) or in combination (the area under the curve was 0.9058) were revealed to discriminate OK lens wearers from controls. Conclusions The relative abundance of the microbial community in the conjunctival sac of myopic children can alter after OK lens wear. Brevundimonas, Acinetobacter, Proteus, and Agathobacter may be candidate biomarkers to distinguish between OK lens wearers and non-wearers.

Background: Orthokeratology (OK) lens wear increases the risk of bacterial infection, but little is known about the microbiota of the conjunctival sac in myopic children wearing OK lenses. This study aimed to investigate the changes of conjunctival microbiota in children after treatment with OK lenses using 16 S rDNA sequencing. Methods: Twenty-eight myopic children who had been continuously wearing OK lenses for 12 to 13 months were enrolled in this prospective study. Twenty-two gender- and age-matched myopic children who had not worn OK lenses or discontinued OK lens wear at least 1 year ago were recruited as controls. Conjunctival swabs from each participant were collected for exploration of the microbiota profiles, targeting the V3–V4 regions of the 16 S rRNA gene by MiSeq sequencing. The differences in the microbial community structure and diversity were also compared between groups. Results: The bacterial alpha diversity indices in the OK lens group were not different from those in the non-wearer group (P > 0.05, Wilcoxon test), while beta diversity examined using principle coordinate analysis of unweighted UniFrac divided the two groups into different clusters. Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes were the abundant phyla in the conjunctival sac microbiota in both groups (P < 0.05, Mann–Whitney U test). Among children in the OK lens group, the Linear discriminant analysis Effect Size identified the compositional changes in OK lens-associated bacteria. Key functional genera such as Blautia, Parasutterella, and Muribaculum were enriched, whereas Brevundimonas, Acinetobacter, Proteus, and Agathobacter decreased significantly (P < 0.05, Mann–Whitney U test). Phylogenetic investigation of communities by reconstruction of unobserved states also showed altered bacterial metabolic pathways in OK lens-associated microbiota. Moreover, using receiver operating characteristic curves, Brevundimonas, Acinetobacter, Proteus, and Agathobacter alone (the area under the curve was all > 0.7500) or in combination (the area under the curve was 0.9058) were revealed to discriminate OK lens wearers from controls. Conclusions: The relative abundance of the microbial community in the conjunctival sac of myopic children can alter after OK lens wear. Brevundimonas, Acinetobacter, Proteus, and Agathobacter may be candidate biomarkers to distinguish between OK lens wearers and non-wearers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Cahiers Elisabethains: A Biannual Journal of English Renaissance Studies is the property of Sage Publications Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

To investigate the acquisition and relatedness of New Delhi Metallo-beta-lactamase among multiple separate species from one patient. Five isolates from three species (Pseudomonas aeruginosa; Pa, Acinetobacter baumannii; Ab and Proteus mirabilis; Pm) suspected of harbouring a carbapenemase were investigated by phenotype (antimicrobial susceptibilities) and whole genome sequencing. Epidemiological data was collected on this patient. Three different carbapenemase genes were detected; blaVIM-1 (Pa; ST773), blaOXA-23 (Ab, ST499) and blaNDM-1 identified in all isolates. NDM regions were found chromosomally integrated in all isolates. Data showed no evidence of NDM-1 transfer within this patient suggesting the enzyme was acquired in three separate events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extensively drug-resistant (XDR), multidrug-resistant (MDR) and pandrug-resistant (PDR) Gram-negative microorganisms (GNBs) are considered a significant global threat. β-lactam and aminoglycoside combinations and imipenem:cyclodextrin inclusion complexes were studied for the treatment of lethal GNBs. This is because of the broad empiric coverage of the two drugs and their possession of different spectra of activity. Two cyclodextrins (β- and hydroxy propyl β-cyclodextrins) were utilized for inclusion complex formation with imipenem using the physical and kneading methods. In silico investigation using the molecular docking and Fourier-infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were employed to estimate binding constant and confirm complex formation, respectively. The in vitro effects of amikacin and imipenem combination in comparison to the effect of imipenem-β- and hydroxy propyl β-cyclodextrin (CD) complexes against Klebsiella spp. and Acinetobacter baumannii were studied. The isolated microorganisms' antimicrobial responsiveness to various antibiotics (19 antibiotics) was evaluated. It was found that piperacillin/tazobactam and gentamycin (resistance rates were 33.3% and 34%, respectively) were the most effective antimicrobials. The in vitro studies have been performed by the checkerboard technique and time-killing assay. The studied combination of amikacin and imipenem showed a substantial drop in bacterial count (p < 0.05). The in vitro studies demonstrated a synergism for the investigated combination. Conventional PCR was used in molecular studies to identify the resistance genes bla IMP and aac (6′)-Ib. The blaIMP and aac (6′)-Ib were recorded in 38.2% and 3.6% of the studied isolates, respectively. The in vitro studies showed synergistic effects among the tested antibiotics with FICIs of ≤0.5. Finally, the study compared the reduction in bacterial count between the tested antibiotic combinations and imipenem:CD physical and kneaded mixtures. Imipenem:CD inclusion complexes demonstrated a significant bacterial count reduction over the antibiotic combination. These results highlight the emerging role of CDs as safe biofunctional excipients in the combat against superbug bacterial resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To isolate, identify and characterize a new Proteus phage and analyze its genome. Methods: The strains isolated from yak slaughtering in the laboratory were cultured, their DNA was extracted and subjected to 16S rRNA sequencing, and the host bacteria were identified and used for bacteriophage separation from the environmental sewage of a yak slaughterhouse in Chengdu, Sichuan. The bacteriophage was separated and purified by the double-layer agar plate method, and its optimal multiplicity of infection (MOI), one-step growth curve and tolerance were determined. Its morphology was observed by negative staining with phosphoric acid and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The whole genomic DNA of the phage was extracted using a commercial kit, sequenced on the Illumina MiSeq sequencing platform, assembled, annotated, and genomically analyzed. Results: Totally 10 Proteus strains were identified from the 67 isolates, and one phage with strong lytic activity, named Proteus phage PV66, was isolated from the sewage. PV66 could lyse Proteus and Enterococcus faecalis. The optimal MOI was 0.1. The results of one-step growth curve showed that the incubation period of bacteria infected with PV66 was about 10 min, the lytic period was about 80 min, and the average lytic amount was 321 PFU/cell. The tolerance pH range was 3–12, and the tolerance temperature was 65 ℃. The bacteriophage had a C3 morphotype under electron microscopy, with a head length of (140 ± 1) nm, a width of (54 ± 2) nm, and a tail length of (36 ± 1) nm. The genome sequencing results showed that the whole sequence length of PV66 was 90 492 bp. The phylogenetic tree analysis showed that the phage had high homology with Proteus mirabilis phage and Cronobacter phage and was in the same branch as non-Kuravirus. Conclusion: The Proteus phage has good application potential. This study provides a basis for future development of new bacteriophages, and enriches the database of Proteus phages.

Abstract We introduce a new flexible one-dimensional photochemical model named Photochemical and RadiatiOn Transport model for Extensive USe (PROTEUS), which consists of a Python graphical user interface (GUI) program and Fortran 90 modules. PROTEUS is designed for adaptability to many planetary atmospheres, for flexibility to deal with thousands of or more chemical reactions with high efficiency, and for intuitive operation with GUI. Chemical reactions can be easily implemented into the Python GUI program in a simple string format, and users can intuitively select a planet and chemical reactions on GUI. Chemical reactions selected on GUI are automatically analyzed by string parsing functions in the Python GUI program, then applied to the Fortran 90 modules to simulate with the selected chemical reactions on a selected planet. We performed a benchmark test of PROTEUS to confirm its validity, by applying it to the Martian atmosphere and the Jovian ionosphere. PROTEUS can significantly save the time for those who need to develop a new photochemical model; users just need to write chemical reactions in the Python GUI program and just select them on GUI to run a new photochemical model. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Pericarditis means inflammation in the pericardial sac. Pericarditis is divided into three categories based on morphology, including fibrinous, purulent, and constrictive. In the present study, a 7‐month‐old male Ghezel breed sheep was examined for low weighting rate for three months. Tachypnea, tachycardia, heart friction sound, absence of fever and normal appetite were recorded in the clinical examination. In the patient's history, there was a history of perforated chest trauma behind the left scapula about three months ago. After the echocardiography examination and bacteriology procedures, purulent pericarditis caused by Proteus mirabilis was diagnosed. The bacterium was analysed using genome sequencing and new strain called Abhar114 was diagnosed. This is the first report of pericarditis caused by Proteus mirabilis in sheep.

Objective: This study was outlined for the isolation and identification of some zoonotic bacte¬ria present in broiler meat, along with the investigation of antimicrobial resistance patterns and determination of antibiotic residue. Materials and Methods: 45 raw meat samples were collected from different restaurants in Mymensingh. Staphylococcus spp., Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Proteus spp., and Citrobacter spp. were detected through cultural, morphological, and biochemical tests. The E. coli were identified by amplification of malB gene, and Staphylococcus aureus was identified by targeting 16r- RNA gene. The disc diffusion method was applied for the antibiogram investigation. Thin layer chromatography was performed to determine the antibiotic residue within the broiler meat. Results: Staphylococcus spp., E. coli, Salmonella spp., Proteus spp., and Citrobacter spp. were detected with a prevalence of 93.33% (42/45), 35.56% (16/45), 2.22% (1/45), 8.89% (4/45), and 13.33% (6/45), respectively. Antibiogram study revealed that Staphylococcus spp. showed the highest resistance to Trimethoprim and Oxytetracycline (75%), and the highest sensitivity was observed toward Gentamycin. The antibiogram profile of E. coli revealed 100% resistance to Oxytetracycline and 100% sensitivity to Gentamycin. Salmonella spp. showed resistance to Ciprofloxacin, Enrofloxacin, and Levofloxacin and was sensitive to Florfenicol and Gentamycin. The antibiotic profile of Proteus spp. exhibited 66.7% resistance to Trimethoprim, Ciprofloxacin, and Enrofloxacin. Citrobacter spp. showed 100% resistance to Trimethoprim, 66.7% resistance to Levofloxacin, and 100% sensitivity was observed to Florfenicol, Gentamycin, and Norfloxacin. The antibiotic residue of Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin, Oxytetracycline, and Enrofloxacin was also determined. In the case of antibiotic residue determination, the residue of Levofloxacin, Oxytetracycline, and Ciprofloxacin was found to be 6.67%, 6.67%, and 13.33%, respectively. Conclusion: This study revealed the existence of some multidrug-resistant pathogenic bacteria and higher limits of antibiotic residue in broiler meat and liver which may affect human health. [Vet. Res. Notes 2023; 3(5.000): 43-49]

Формулювання проблеми. Проблема проведення якісного фізичного експерименту у закладах освіти на сьогодні є надзвичайно актуальною. Сучасна система освіти неможлива без активного використання цифрових технологій, онлайн-сервісів і платформ. Тому в освітній діяльності активно використовується нова форма наочності – віртуальна, яка є ефективною у випадку доповнення реального фізичного експерименту. Використання віртуального фізичного експерименту активізує пізнавально-пошукову діяльність здобувачів освіти, але лише поєднання віртуального та реального експерименту забезпечує якісний результат під час навчання фізики. Тому одним із основних завдань у процесі підготовки майбутніх учителів фізики є пошук оптимальних форм і методів інтегрування реального та віртуального експериментів, що сприятимуть удосконаленню фахових компетентностей здобувачів освіти. Матеріали і методи. З метою з’ясування стану дослідженості проблеми в педагогічній теорії та практиці використано: теоретичні методи – аналіз, порівняння, систематизація та узагальнення навчально-методичних, наукових та прикладних джерел, електронних ресурсів з проблеми дослідження. Результати. Розглянуто дидактичні та методичні можливості віртуального фізичного експерименту як засобу удосконалення фахових компетентностей здобувачів освіти. У дослідженні запропоновано виконання лабораторної роботи «Визначення індуктивності котушки методом використання явища самоіндукції при замиканні кола». В якості середовища для моделювання електричних схем використано програмне забезпечення Proteus від Labcenter Electronics. Представлено результати опитування студентів щодо ефективності використання віртуального експерименту в освітній діяльності. Висновки. Використання віртуального фізичного експерименту в освітньому процес забезпечує реалізацію експериментального методу навчання фізики в умовах дистанційного навчання, формування дослідницьких умінь та навичок, застосування набутих знань у практичній діяльності, значно розширює можливості залучення здобувачів освіти до пізнавально-пошукової діяльності, активізує їх самостійну діяльність. Віртуальний фізичний експеримент сприяє формуванню та удосконаленню загальних та фахових компетентностей здобувачів освіти.

ABSTRACTFood additives have been linked to the pro-inflammatory microbial dysbiosis associated with Crohn’s disease (CD) but the underlying ecological dynamics are unknown. Here, we examine how selection of food additives affects the growth of multiple strains of a key beneficial bacterium (Faecalibacterium prausnitzii), axenic clinical isolates of proinflammatory bacteria from CD patients (Proteus, Morganella, and Klebsiella spp.), and the consortia of mucosa-associated microbiota recovered from multiple Crohn’s disease patients. Bacterial growth of the axenic isolates was evaluated using a habitat-simulating medium supplemented with either sodium sulfite, aluminum silicate, carrageenan, carboxymethylcellulose, polysorbate 80, saccharin, sucralose, or aspartame, intended to approximate concentrations found in food. The microbial consortia recovered from post-operative CD patient mucosal biopsy samples were challenged with either carboxymethylcellulose and/or polysorbate 80, and the bacterial communities compared to unchallenged consortia by 16S rRNA gene amplicon profiling. Growth of all F. prausnitzii strains was arrested when either sodium sulfite or polysorbate 80 was added to cultures at baseline or mid-exponential phase of growth, and the inhibitory effects on the Gram-negative bacteria by sodium sulfite were conditional on oxygen availability. The effects from polysorbate 80, saccharin, carrageenan, and/or carboxymethylcellulose on these bacteria were strain-specific. In addition to their direct effects on bacterial growth, polysorbate 80 and/or carboxymethylcellulose can drive profound changes in the CD mucosa-associated microbiota via niche expansion of Proteus and/or Veillonellaceae – both implicated in early Crohn’s disease recurrence. These studies on the interaction of food additives with the enteric microbiota provide a basis for dietary management in Crohn’s disease.

We introduce a new flexible one-dimensional photochemical model named Photochemical and RadiatiOn Transport model for Extensive USe (PROTEUS), which consists of a Python graphical user interface (GUI) program and Fortran 90 modules. PROTEUS is designed for adaptability to many planetary atmospheres, for flexibility to deal with thousands of or more chemical reactions with high efficiency, and for intuitive operation with GUI. Chemical reactions can be easily implemented into the Python GUI program in a simple string format, and users can intuitively select a planet and chemical reactions on GUI. Chemical reactions selected on GUI are automatically analyzed by string parsing functions in the Python GUI program, then applied to the Fortran 90 modules to simulate with the selected chemical reactions on a selected planet. We performed a benchmark test of PROTEUS to confirm its validity, by applying it to the Martian atmosphere and the Jovian ionosphere. PROTEUS can significantly save the time for those who need to develop a new photochemical model; users just need to write chemical reactions in the Python GUI program and just select them on GUI to run a new photochemical model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Bovine mastitis is a polymicrobial disease characterised by inflammation of the udders of dairy and beef cattle. The infection has huge implications to health and welfare of animals, impacting milk and beef production and costing up to EUR 32 billion annually to the dairy industry, globally. Bacterial communities associated with the disease include representative species from Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Enterococcus, Actinomyces, Aerococcus, Escherichia, Klebsiella and Proteus. Conventional treatment relies on antibiotics, but antimicrobial resistance, declining antibiotic innovations and biofilm production negatively impact therapeutic efficacy. Bacteriophages (phages) are viruses which effectively target and lyse bacteria with extreme specificity and can be a valuable supplement or replacement to antibiotics for bovine mastitis. In this review, we provide an overview of the etiology of bovine mastitis, the advantages of phage therapy over chemical antibiotics for the strains and research work conducted in the area in various model systems to support phage deployment in the dairy industry. We emphasise work on phage isolation procedures from samples obtained from mastitic and non-mastitic sources, characterisation and efficacy testing of single and multiple phages as standalone treatments or adjuncts to probiotics in various in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo bovine mastitis infection models. Furthermore, we highlight the areas where improvements can be made with focus on phage cocktail optimisation, formulation, and genetic engineering to improve delivery, stability, efficacy, and safety in cattle. Phage therapy is becoming more attractive in clinical medicine and agriculture and thus, could mitigate the impending catastrophe of antimicrobial resistance in the dairy sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Integrative conjugative elements (ICEs) are important mobile elements that are associated with the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in Proteus. Recent studies demonstrated that the tigecycline resistance gene cluster tmexCD-toprJ has emerged in ICEs of Proteus. However, the prevalence of tmexCD-toprJ positive Proteus from animal sources is unclear. To cover the gap, a total of 762 Proteus spp. were isolated from animal source from six provinces of China to identify the tmexCD-toprJ positive isolates. Eight tmexCD-toprJ positive isolates were identified, with the tmexCD-toprJ positive rate of 1.05% against all Proteus spp. and 2.79% against ICE-bearing Proteus spp. The tmexCD-toprJ gene cluster in these Proteus spp. were tmexCD3-toprJ1b and all of them were carried by ICEs. Genetic structure analysis showed that tmexCD3-toprJ1b-bearing ICEs were complicated and plastic, but the tmexCD3-toprJ1b was specifically integrated into variable region III (VRIII) of ICEs with the help of integrases. Furthermore, we found that the umuC gene, which is presented in VRIII of ICEs and other genetic structures of many other bacterial genomes, was a hotspot for the integration of tmexCD-toprJ-bearing potential mobile elements. In summary, our results suggested that Proteus were important reservoirs for tmexCD-toprJ due to the high prevalence of ICEs. Therefore, continuous surveillance of ICEs-associated ARGs in Proteus is necessary and significant for controlling their future transmission. IMPORTANCE The emergence and spread of tmexCD-toprJ have greatly weakened the function of tigecycline. Although studies have demonstrated the significance of Proteus as carriers for tmexCD-toprJ, the epidemic mechanism and characteristics of tmexCD-toprJ in Proteus remain unclear. Herein, we deciphered that the umuC gene in VRIII of SXT/R391 ICEs was a hotspot for the integration of tmexCD3-toprJ1b-bearing mobile genetic elements by genomic analysis. The mobilization and dissemination of tmexCD3-toprJ1b in Proteus were mediated by highly prevalent ICEs. Furthermore, the co-occurrence of tmexCD3-toprJ1b-bearing ICEs with other chromosomally encoded multidrug resistance gene islands warned that the chromosomes of Proteus are significant reservoirs of ARGs. Overall, our results provide significant insights for the prevention and control of tmexCD3-toprJ1b in Proteus.

Pericarditis means inflammation in the pericardial sac. Pericarditis is divided into three categories based on morphology, including fibrinous, purulent, and constrictive. In the present study, a 7‐month‐old male Ghezel breed sheep was examined for low weighting rate for three months. Tachypnea, tachycardia, heart friction sound, absence of fever and normal appetite were recorded in the clinical examination. In the patient's history, there was a history of perforated chest trauma behind the left scapula about three months ago. After the echocardiography examination and bacteriology procedures, purulent pericarditis caused by Proteus mirabilis was diagnosed. The bacterium was analysed using genome sequencing and new strain called Abhar114 was diagnosed. This is the first report of pericarditis caused by Proteus mirabilis in sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Among Gram-negative bacteria, the presence of beta-lactamases is a defined modality of resistance to antibiotics of the beta-lactam group. Proteus species also has been showing various degrees of resistance to these groups of antibiotics and thereby appearing multidrug resistant. The aim of our study was to know the occurrence of Proteus species from different clinical samples their antibiotic susceptibility, extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) production, and the associated patient risk factors. Materials and Methods: This observational descriptive study was done from December 2020 to December 2021. All Proteus isolates obtained from various clinical samples, were biochemically identified, antibiogram, and screening for ESBL production was done using a combination of cefotaxime and cefotaxime clavulanic acid antibiotic discs. Results: Seventy-nine Proteus isolates were obtained from hospitalized patients. In that, Proteus mirabilis was the most common isolate followed by Proteus vulgaris. Proteus infections were common in the age groups of 41–60 years and males were affected more than females. Out of the 79 Proteus isolates 12 were ESBL producers. Among these, 25% of ESBL producers were P. mirabilis and 75% of them were P. vulgaris. Conclusion: The most common isolate was P. mirabilis among hospitalized patients and P. vulgaris was the main ESBL producers when compared to P. mirabilis. These pathogens mainly caused wound and urinary tract infections. The patient age groups ranged mainly from 49–60 years. Diabetes mellitus was the most significant risk factor in these Proteus infections.

The present study was carried out in October 2021 to March 2022 to determine the prevalence of pathogenic bacteria in the middle ear effusions of patients with OM by way of direct culture, as well as to determine the resistance of these bacteria to antibiotics, represent patients referred to the Al-Haboby Teaching Hospital at Thi-Qar province. their bacterial culture were performed according to standard techniques. This study was conducted on 30 ear swab. The prevalence of otitis media infection in this study was 90% as indicated by positive ear swab culture, the infections were distributed as the following: females 93.8% were higher than males 85.7%. with no significant differences (P≤0.01). The present study revealed four type of positive and negative gram stain bacteria were infect otitis media patient,the highest percentage of infection was with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (48.14%) followed by Proteus (25.92%), Staphylococcus aureus(18.51%) and the lowest percentage of infection was with E . coli (7.40%) . Children are more likely to suffer from otitis media than adults are. Adult infections were caused by tobacco smoke exposure, seasonal variations in respiratory infections, and allergies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most common causes of urinary tract infections (UTIs) is Proteus species. Because there is little information on the pathogenicity of Proteus species isolated from Iran, we assessed their virulence characteristics and antibiotic resistance in this study. In Shahrekord, Iran, 260 isolates of Proteus causing UTIs were identified from patients. Polymerase chain reaction for gene amplification was used to determine virulence features and antibiotic resistance gene distribution in uropathogenic Proteus spp. After biochemical and molecular analysis, 72 (27.69%) of the 260 collected samples were recognized as Proteus mirabilis , and 127 (48.84%) specimens were Pr. vulgaris in both male and female forms. A significant interaction effect between Pr. mirabilis and Pr. vulgaris infections and the sex of patients was seen in both the male and female groups. No statistically significant difference was observed between Pr. mirabilis infection and season in different year seasons. However, in different seasons of the year, a statistically significant difference was observed between infection with Pr. vulgaris in autumn and other seasons. There was a considerable difference between Pr. mirabilis and Pr. vulgaris infections at different ages in various age groups. As people aged, infections occurred more frequently. Fim,pap,kspMT , and set1 genes had the highest expression in both Pr. vulgaris and Pr. mirabilis. Also, the highest rate of antibiotic resistance of Pr. vulgaris and Pr. mirabilis is attributed to the high expression of aac(3)-IV,tet(A) , and blaSHV genes. In conclusion, identifying these genes as the key controllers of Proteus virulence factors might help with better infection management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Among Gram-negative bacteria, the presence of beta-lactamases is a defined modality of resistance to antibiotics of the beta-lactam group. Proteus species also has been showing various degrees of resistance to these groups of antibiotics and thereby appearing multidrug resistant. The aim of our study was to know the occurrence of Proteus species from different clinical samples their antibiotic susceptibility, extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) production, and the associated patient risk factors. Materials and Methods: This observational descriptive study was done from December 2020 to December 2021. All Proteus isolates obtained from various clinical samples, were biochemically identified, antibiogram, and screening for ESBL production was done using a combination of cefotaxime and cefotaxime clavulanic acid antibiotic discs. Results: Seventy-nine Proteus isolates were obtained from hospitalized patients. In that, Proteus mirabilis was the most common isolate followed by Proteus vulgaris. Proteus infections were common in the age groups of 41--60 years and males were affected more than females. Out of the 79 Proteus isolates 12 were ESBL producers. Among these, 25% of ESBL producers were P. mirabilis and 75% of them were P. vulgaris. Conclusion: The most common isolate was P. mirabilis among hospitalized patients and P. vulgaris was the main ESBL producers when compared to P. mirabilis. These pathogens mainly caused wound and urinary tract infections. The patient age groups ranged mainly from 49--60 years. Diabetes mellitus was the most significant risk factor in these Proteus infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]