bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HACCP plan for microbiological hazards associated with fermented crab,Episesarma mederiH. Milne Edwards 1853
Authors: Boonprab Kangsadan , Donrung Nowwapan
Published: January 2023

Aims

To develop a model HACCP plan related to the microbiological hazards for the traditional fermented crab.

Methods and Results

The microbiological and chemical characteristics of commercial products were surveyed. Microbiological hazard analysis was performed for raw materials and during processing. Critical control points (CCPs) were determined using a decision tree, with CCP1 as saturated salt preparation and CCP2 as fermentation. The critical limit (CL) of CCP1 was at 100°C for 20 min applied to brining and of CCP2 was at 25% NaCl for the brine applied to fermented crab. Isolated microbial hazards and type strains were used for the validation of the CLs. Monitoring and verification of the proposed HACCP plan were carried out, and an effective HACCP plan was established.

Conclusions

The HACCP plan promoted the safe consumption of fermented crab with the provided CCPs at the saturated salt preparation and fermentation steps. The effective CLs to ensure microbiological hazards as safe at the CCPs provide the best support for an effective plan. The hazards were reduced significantly after the HACCP plan had been applied.
A novel Staphylococcus phage, vB_Sau-RP15, and its application in contaminated milk
Authors: Imklin Napakhwan , Chaengphaniad Phiraphat , Šimoliūnas Eugenijus , Nasanit Rujikan
Published: January 2023

The vB_Sau-RP15 phage, selected for its potential use as a phage treatment in milk, was isolated from raw milk using Staphylococcusaureus NP01 as the host. The host range test revealed that the phage was able to lyse 12 strains of Staph. aureus from raw milk. This phage was stable at 4–37°C and pH 6–9 for at least 1 h. The adsorption rate was ~78% within the first 3 min. A low frequency of phage-insensitive mutant induction (4.6 × 10−6) was observed. Genomic analyses revealed that the vB_Sau-RP15 represented a novel species in the genus Silviavirus. Even though no virulence or antibiotic resistance genes were detected, the phage genome carried lysogenic-associated genes. Phage treatments (108 PFU per ml) in pasteurized milk contaminated with low (104 CFU per ml) and high (107 CFU per ml) concentrations of Staph. aureus confirmed the proficiency of the phage in the diminishing of the number of bacterial cells at 4°C and ambient temperature. A Staphylococcus phage, vB_Sau-RP15, could be a promising agent for controlling Staph. aureus contamination in milk.
Evaluating the efficacy of hydrogen peroxide vapor against a retroviral vector in a gene therapy manufacturing facility
Authors: Law Roshanak , Ferrige Georgina , Perrett Kathryn , Langley Christopher , Chewins John
Published: January 2023

An evaluation of the efficacy of 35% hydrogen peroxide vapor (HPV) against a novel Simian Immunodeficiency retrovirus (SIV) was conducted in a 624m3 GMP grade C manufacturing facility. SIV biological indicators, with an average titre of 7.11×108 TU/mL [equivalent to 1.3×108 Reverse transcriptase (RT) nanounits when analysed by F-PERT], were produced on-site using virus presented within an anticipated worst-case support matrix based on the manufacturers commercially confidential virus support media. SIV biological indicators were distributed around the manufacturing facility, including locations identified as key contamination control points by the manufacturer, and exposed to a HPV cycle. Commercially available biological indicators of 6 log10  Geobacillus stearothermophilus were co-located with the SIV Biological Indicator (BIs). HPV was found to be efficacious in eliminating the SIV and commercial G. stearothermophilus BIs and offers a simple and robust method for biodecontamination of gene therapy facilities.
Microencapsulation of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG and L. plantarum 299 V by reverse spherification: a promising method to improve the survival of probiotics
Authors: Khajehie Nastaran , Niakousari Mehrdad , Eskandari Mohammad Hadi , Majdinasab Marjan , Shekarforoush Seyed Shahram
Published: January 2023

This research reports the first application of the reverse spherification (RVS) method for encapsulation of two probiotics (Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG and L. plantarum 299 V) compared to the basic spherification (BS). These probiotics were encapsulated in different solutions encompassing various contents of alginate, gelatin, and gellan gum. The RVS bead diameters was about 1.5 times bigger and hardness was 70%–80% lower than BS samples. As determined by Raman spectral mapping, the RVS beads had two calcium alginate walls but the BS beads had only one. The inner wall of the RVS beads was more than three times thicker than outer wall. The encapsulation yields of gelatin/gellan gum and gelatin beads prepared by both methods were >1.5% alginate beads. All the RVS-prepared beads were resistant to stomach acid and showed no significant reduction in the intestine. Furthermore, the incorporation of gelatin and gellan gum into alginate led to higher cell protection. For 1.5% alginate beads, <67% survival was achieved after acid exposure but in others, >77% survival was observed; RVS beads were about 1 log above than BS ones. The proposed novel microencapsulation method efficiently increased the viability of probiotic bacteria compared to the conventional approaches.
Characterization of selected species of Pichia and Candida for their growth capacity in apple and grape must and their biofilm parameters
Authors: Lorenzini Marilinda , Cappello Maria Stella , Andreolli Marco , Zapparoli Giacomo
Published: January 2023

Pichia and Candida species include biofilm-forming yeasts able to spoil foods and beverages. Strains belonging to 10 Pichia and Candida species isolated from apples, grape musts, and wines were analysed. They were subjected to molecular typing and characterized for their ability to grow and ferment must for cider and wine production, and for their biofilm properties. All strains grew similarly in apple and grape must. Glucose-fermenting strains displayed differentiated fermentation performances. Great variation in SO2 and ethanol sensitivity was observed among the strains. Pichia manshurica strains showed high tolerance to both molecules. Eleven and five surface-spreading biofilm (MAT) phenotypes were identified in solid and liquid media, respectively. Strains produced biofilms with variable thicknesses and widths in culture tubes. Cell adherence and aqueous-hydrocarbon biphasic hydrophobicity assays were carried out. Some Pichia manshurica and P. membranifaciens strains exhibited a high capacity to form a thick biofilm and had high cell adherence and hydrophobicity values. These strains could be more likely to colonize the internal surfaces of tanks. This study evidenced that some Pichia and Candida strains can proliferate during apple and grape must fermentation and may be detrimental the beverage quality, due to their specific biofilm properties.
A chromosome‐level genome assembly enables the identification of the follicule stimulating hormone receptor as the master sex‐determining gene in the flatfish Solea senegalensis
Authors: de la Herrán Roberto , Hermida Miguel , Rubiolo Juan Andres , Gómez‐Garrido Jèssica , Cruz Fernando , Robles Francisca , Navajas‐Pérez Rafael , Blanco Andres , Villamayor Paula Rodriguez , Torres Dorinda , Sánchez‐Quinteiro Pablo , Ramirez Daniel , Rodríguez Maria Esther , Arias‐Pérez Alberto , Cross Ismael , Duncan Neil , Martínez‐Peña Teresa , Riaza Ana , Millán Adrian , De Rosa M. Cristina , Pirolli Davide , Gut Marta , Bouza Carmen , Robledo Diego , Rebordinos Laureana , Alioto Tyler , Ruíz‐Rejón Carmelo , Martínez Paulino
Published: January 2023

Sex determination (SD) shows huge variation among fish and a high evolutionary rate, as illustrated by the Pleuronectiformes (flatfishes). This order is characterized by its adaptation to demersal life, compact genomes and diversity of SD mechanisms. Here, we assembled the Solea senegalensis genome, a flatfish of great commercial value, into 82 contigs (614 Mb) combining long‐ and short‐read sequencing, which were next scaffolded using a highly dense genetic map (28,838 markers, 21 linkage groups), representing 98.9% of the assembly. Further, we established the correspondence between the assembly and the 21 chromosomes by using BAC‐FISH. Whole genome resequencing of six males and six females enabled the identification of 41 single nucleotide polymorphism variants in the follicle stimulating hormone receptor (fshr) consistent with an XX/XY SD system. The observed sex association was validated in a broader independent sample, providing a novel molecular sexing tool. The fshr gene displayed differential expression between male and female gonads from 86 days post‐fertilization, when the gonad is still an undifferentiated primordium, concomitant with the activation of amh and cyp19a1a, testis and ovary marker genes, respectively, in males and females. The Y‐linked fshr allele, which included 24 nonsynonymous variants and showed a highly divergent 3D protein structure, was overexpressed in males compared to the X‐linked allele at all stages of gonadal differentiation. We hypothesize a mechanism hampering the action of the follicle stimulating hormone driving the undifferentiated gonad toward testis.
A compilation answering 50 questions on monkeypox virus and the current monkeypox outbreak
Authors: Cabanillas Beatriz , Murdaca Giuseppe , Guemari Amir , Torres Maria Jose , Azkur Ahmet Kursat , Aksoy Emel , Vitte Joana , de las Vecillas Leticia , Giovannini Mattia , Fernández‐Santamaria Ruben , Castagnoli Riccardo , Orsi Andrea , Amato Rosa , Giberti Irene , Català Alba , Ambrozej Dominika , Schaub Bianca , Tramper‐Stranders Gerdien A. , Novak Natalija , Nadeau Kari C. , Agache Ioana , Akdis Mubeccel , Akdis Cezmi A.
Published: January 2023

The current monkeypox disease (MPX) outbreak constitutes a new threat and challenge for our society. With more than 55,000 confirmed cases in 103 countries, World Health Organization declared the ongoing MPX outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on July 23, 2022. The current MPX outbreak is the largest, most widespread, and most serious since the diagnosis of the first case of MPX in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a country where MPX is an endemic disease. Throughout history, there have only been sporadic and self‐limiting outbreaks of MPX outside Africa, with a total of 58 cases described from 2003 to 2021. This figure contrasts with the current outbreak of 2022, in which more than 55,000 cases have been confirmed in just 4 months. MPX is, in most cases, self‐limiting; however, severe clinical manifestations and complications have been reported. Complications are usually related to the extent of virus exposure and patient health status, generally affecting children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised patients. The expansive nature of the current outbreak leaves many questions that the scientific community should investigate and answer in order to understand this phenomenon better and prevent new threats in the future. In this review, 50 questions regarding monkeypox virus (MPXV) and the current MPX outbreak were answered in order to provide the most updated scientific information and to explore the potential causes and consequences of this new health threat.
Perinatal risk factors for developmental coordination disorder in children born extremely preterm
Authors: Bolk Jenny , Källén Karin , Farooqi Aijaz , Hafström Maria , Fellman Vineta , Åden Ulrika , Serenius Fredrik
Published: January 2023

Aim

Children born extremely preterm frequently have developmental coordination disorder (DCD). We aimed to evaluate perinatal risk factors for DCD.

Methods

Swedish national cohort study including 226 children born before 27 gestational weeks without major neurodevelopmental disabilities at 6.5 years. Outcome was DCD, defined as ≤5th percentile on the Movement Assessment Battery for Children‐Second Edition. Perinatal risk factors were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

DCD was present in 84/226 (37.2%) children. Of the risk factors known at 40 weeks gestation, independent and significant risk factors for DCD were: mother's age at delivery (odds ratio [OR] 1.73, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07–2.80); pre‐eclampsia (2.79, 1.14–6.80); mother born in a non‐Nordic country (2.23, 1.00–4.99); gestational age per week increase (0.70, 0.50–0.99) and retinopathy of prematurity (2.48, 1.26–4.87). Of factors known at discharge, postnatal steroids exposure (2.24, 1.13–4.46) and mechanical ventilation (1.76, 1.06–2.09) were independent risk factors when added to the model in separate analyses.

Conclusion

The risk of DCD in children born extremely preterm was multifactorial and associated with gestational age largely mediated by ROP, maternal factors, pre‐eclampsia, administration of postnatal steroids and mechanical ventilation. These risk factors are common among children born extremely preterm, contributing to their high risk of DCD.
Characterising nationwide reasons for unplanned hospital readmission after colorectal cancer surgery
Authors: Xu William , Wells Cameron I. , McGuinness Matthew , Varghese Chris , Keane Celia , Liu Chen , O'Grady Gregory , Bissett Ian P. , Harmston Christopher
Published: January 2023

Background

Readmissions after colorectal cancer surgery are common, despite advancements in surgical care, and have a significant impact on both individual patients and overall healthcare costs. The aim of this study was to determine the 30‐and 90 days readmission rate after colorectal cancer surgery, and to investigate the risk factors and clinical reasons for unplanned readmissions.

Method

A multicenter, population‐based study including all patients discharged after index colorectal cancer resection from 2010 to 2020 in Aotearoa New Zealand (AoNZ) was completed. The Ministry of Health National Minimum Dataset was used. Rates of readmission at 30 days and 90 days were calculated. Mixed‐effect logistic regression models were built to investigate factors associated with unplanned readmission. Reasons for readmission were described.

Results

Data were obtained on 16,885 patients. Unplanned 30‐day and 90‐day hospital readmission rates were 15.1% and 23.7% respectively. The main readmission risk factors were comorbidities, advanced disease, and postoperative complications. Hospital level variation was not present. Despite risk adjustment, R2 value of models was low (30 days: 4.3%, 90 days: 5.2%). The most common reasons for readmission were gastrointestinal causes (32.1%) and wound complications (14.4%). Rates of readmission did not improve over the 11 years study period (p = 0.876).

Conclusion

Readmissions following colorectal resections in AoNZ are higher than other comparable healthcare systems and rates have remained constant over time. While patient comorbidities and postoperative complications are associated with readmission, the explanatory value of these variables is poor. To reduce unplanned readmissions, efforts should be focused on prevention and early detection of post‐discharge complications.
Influences of solid content of slurry on the microstructure of CaO crucible prepared by slip casting
Authors: Deng Zirong , Wei Yaowu , Zhou Hui , Tuo Kangan , Wang Yanping , Zhang Yi
Published: January 2023

CaO crucible was prepared from Ca(OH)2 slurry via a slip‐casting method in order to avoid hydration problem caused by free CaO during preparation process. The effect of solid content of Ca(OH)2 slurry on microstructure of CaO crucible was investigated. It was found that the rheological property of the slurry was significantly improved when the solid content of the slurry within a certain range. The change of solid content of slurry affects the microstructure of the final products. When the solid content of the slurry was 71 wt%, the manufactured CaO crucible was of smallest mean pore size (2.58 μm) after 1600°C heating treatment. The heated CaO sample was of lower apparent porosity (4.1%) and higher bulk density (2.93 g/cm3). And the size distributions of most CaO grains are between 10 and 40 μm.
Cost‐effective suspension formulation for flexible TiB2 tapes
Authors: Shirey Kaitlyn , Tallon Carolina
Published: January 2023

The manufacturing of ultra‐high temperature ceramic materials has significantly advanced over recent years, allowing for the development of new microstructures, architectures, shapes, and geometries to explore new properties and applications for these materials beyond aerospace. For example, titanium diboride (TiB2) exhibits high electrical and thermal conductivity that could satisfy the needs of battery applications by tailoring its geometry, microstructure, and architecture. In this work, aqueous tape casting of TiB2 has been investigated. Zeta potential measurements and suspension rheology were used to understand the role of dispersant, binder, and plasticizer in the suspension and their interaction with the surface chemistry of the TiB2 particles to develop a stable, homogenous suspension, with minimum additive amounts (0%–2 wt%). Homogeneous, flexible, and strong TiB2 tapes were prepared using suspensions with 30 vol% solids and characterized to compare different compositions, mixing methods, and thicknesses. The characterization shows the tailoring of the properties as a function of the controlled suspension formulation with a minimum amount of additives. Green tapes with 2 wt% dispersants, 1 wt% binder, and 2 wt% plasticizers had similar microstructure to those with half the plasticizer but quintuple Young's modulus (1.96 GPa). The effect on other relevant properties is also discussed.
New semi‐dwarfing alleles with increased coleoptile length by gene editing of gibberellin 3‐oxidase 1 using CRISPR‐Cas9 in barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)
Authors: Cheng Jingye , Hill Camilla , Han Yong , He Tianhua , Ye Xingguo , Shabala Sergey , Guo Ganggang , Zhou Meixue , Wang Ke , Li Chengdao
Published: January 2023

The green revolution was based on genetic modification of the gibberellin (GA) hormone system with “dwarfing” gene mutations that reduces GA signals, conferring shorter stature, thus enabling plant adaptation to modern farming conditions. Strong GA‐related mutants with shorter stature often have reduced coleoptile length, discounting yield gain due to their unsatisfactory seedling emergence under drought conditions. Here we present gibberellin (GA) 3‐oxidase1 (GA3ox1) as an alternative semi‐dwarfing gene in barley that combines an optimal reduction in plant height without restricting coleoptile and seedling growth. Using large‐scale field trials with an extensive collection of barley accessions, we showed that a natural GA3ox1 haplotype moderately reduced plant height by 5–10 cm. We used CRISPR/Cas9 technology, generated several novel GA3ox1 mutants and validated the function of GA3ox1. We showed that altered GA3ox1 activities changed the level of active GA isoforms and consequently increased coleoptile length by an average of 8.2 mm, which could provide essential adaptation to maintain yield under climate change. We revealed that CRISPR/Cas9‐induced GA3ox1 mutations increased seed dormancy to an ideal level that could benefit the malting industry. We conclude that selecting HvGA3ox1 alleles offers a new opportunity for developing barley varieties with optimal stature, longer coleoptile and additional agronomic traits.
Sympathetic activity is not a main cause of blood pressure reduction with exercise training in un‐medicated middle‐aged/older men
Authors: Ehlers Thomas S. , Møller Sophie , Hansen Camilla C. , Tamariz‐Ellemann Andrea S. , Vermeulen Tyler D. , Shoemaker J. Kevin , Gliemann Lasse , Hellsten Ylva
Published: January 2023

Background

This study tested the hypothesis that training reduces resting sympathetic activity and improves baroreflex control in both hypertensive and normotensive men but reduces blood pressure only in hypertensive men.

Methods

Middle‐aged/older un‐medicated stage‐1 hypertensive males (mean age 55 ± 3 years; n = 13) and normotensive controls (mean age 60 ± 5 years; n = 12) participated in 8 weeks of supervised high‐intensity interval spinning training. Before and after training, muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) and blood pressure were measured at rest and during a sympatho‐excitatory cold pressor test (CPT). Based on the measurements, baroreceptor sensitivity and baroreceptor threshold were calculated.

Results

Resting MSNA and baroreceptor sensitivity were similar for the hypertensive and the normotensive groups. Training lowered MSNA (p < 0.05), expressed as burst frequency (burst/min), overall, and to a similar extent, in both groups (17% and 27%, respectively, in hypertensive and normotensive group), whereas blood pressure was only significantly (p < 0.05) lowered (by 4 mmHg in both systolic and diastolic pressure) in the hypertensive group. Training did not (p > 0.05) alter the MSNA or blood pressure response to CPT or increase baroreceptor sensitivity but reduced (p < 0.05) the baroreceptor threshold with a main effect for both groups. Training adherence and intensity were similar in both groups yet absolute maximal oxygen uptake increased by 15% in the normotensive group only.

Conclusion

The dissociation between the training induced changes in resting MSNA, lack of change in baroreflex sensitivity and the change in blood pressure, suggests that MSNA is not a main cause of the blood pressure reduction with exercise training in un‐medicated middle‐aged/older men.
The Biology and Function of Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase 2 in the Lungs
Authors: Costanzo Louis , Soto Brian , Meier Richard , Geraghty Patrick
Published: January 2023

Tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMP) are a family of four endogenous proteins that primarily function to inhibit the activities of proteases such as the matrix metalloproteinases (MMP). Altered MMP/TIMP ratios are frequently observed in several human diseases. During aging and disease progression, the extracellular matrix (ECM) undergoes structural changes in which elastin and collagens serve an essential role. MMPs and TIMPs significantly influence the ECM. Classically, elevated levels of TIMPs are suggested to result in ECM accumulation leading to fibrosis, whereas loss of TIMP responses leads to enhanced matrix proteolysis. Here, we outline the known roles of the most abundant TIMP, TIMP2, in pulmonary diseases but also discuss future perspectives in TIMP2 research that could impact the lungs. TIMP2 directly inhibits MMPs, in particular MMP2, but TIMP2 is also required for the activation of MMP2 through its interaction with MMP14. The protease and antiprotease imbalance of MMPs and TIMPs are extensively studied in diseases but recent discoveries suggest that TIMPs, specifically, TIMP2 could play other roles in aging and inflammation processes.
Composite Scattering from a PEC Object above Two-Layered Rough Soil Surfaces Based on an Efficient Bi-Iterative Model
Authors: Li Ke , Guo Lixin , Li Juan
Published: January 2023

In the study, an efficient bi-iterative physical optics (PO) electromagnetic model is used to analyze the composite scattering from a PEC object above two-layered rough soil surfaces for the first time. The PO method is applied to calculate the direct scattered fields from the object and the upper layer rough surface and to deal with the mutual coupling effect between the object and the two-layered rough surfaces. During the mutual coupling process, a bi-iterative strategy is considered to solve the coupling interaction between the object and the upper rough surface and the coupling interaction between the upper and lower rough surfaces. We assume a 2-D scattering problem. The result is validated by comparing it with that obtained from the conventional method of moments (MoM). Comparison results from different object types show that the scattered curves calculated using the proposed method resemble the ones obtained from MoM. The comparison of computer resources also shows the efficiency of our method. Meanwhile, the normalized radar cross-section of the composite model is analyzed under different parameters.
Medication Adherence and Common Barriers for Caregivers of Preschool Children with Pediatric Glaucoma
Authors: Liu Zitian , Zhang Yuning , Liu Pingping , Yang Wenxin , Li Xinyan , Zhong Yimin , Yang Yangfan , Liu Xing , Xiao Huiming , Yu Minbin , Huang Wenmin
Published: January 2023

Purpose. To investigate the medication adherence among caregivers of preschool children with pediatric glaucoma and to elucidate common barriers leading to poor adherence. Methods. A cross-sectional study. Caregivers of preschool children with pediatric glaucoma completed a questionnaire on demographic information of caregivers, demographic and disease characteristics of children, caregivers-reported medication adherence (by an adapted Morisky Adherence Scale), and possible 13 barriers. Results. Overall 132 questionnaires were considered valid. Thirty-six percent of all reported poor medication adherence. Caregivers’ age and self-evaluated knowledge about pediatric glaucoma showed a significant difference between the adherent and nonadherent groups (

P
<
0.05

). Nineteen percent of all reported only one barrier as important, 65% cited multiple barriers, and 16% cited no barriers. Anxiety and depression were cited as important by most caregivers in both groups. Univariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that difficulty with the acquisition of medications (OR, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.1–5.7;

P
=
0.025

), difficulty with medication schedule (OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.0–5.0;

P
=
0.043

), and high expenses for medications (OR, 4.8; 95% CI, 1.4–15.9;

P
=
0.011

) were significantly associated with higher odds of poor adherence. Conclusions. Over one-third of caregivers of preschool children with pediatric glaucoma were in poor medication adherence. Nearly two-thirds of caregivers cited multiple barriers simultaneously as important hindrances to medication usage. Anxiety and depression, difficulty with the acquisition of medications, difficulty with the medication schedule, and high expenses for medications were prominent barriers. Individualized solutions should be provided according to reported barriers by each caregiver and the other most common barriers.
Variations of Soil Cyanobacteria Communities Accompanied by Different Habitat Types in Abandoned Ion-Absorbed Rare Earth Tailings
Authors: Liu Yan , Zhang Meng , Feng Bing , Chen Ming , Zhou Xiuxiu
Published: January 2023

Soil fertility declined, companied with the poor capacity of water holding, after rare earth mining for a long time, mine tailings remediation produced in conventional rare earth elements REEs exploitation are currently urgent issues. Cyanobacteria are prokaryotic oxygenic phototrophs, played a vital role in the biogeochemical cycling of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N), reducing soil loss, are the pioneer organisms of biological soil crusts BSCs. However, studies on cyanobacteria inoculation in abandoned ionic rare earth mines were still insufficient. The abundance and composition of microorganisms in the topsoil of abandoned ionic rare earth mines were analyzed using high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA V4 gene in this study. Fifteen samples were selected in and around rare earth mine tailings based on five different habitat types to assess the difference of main bacteria component and the dominant cyanobacteria caused by environmental factors. A total of 713,057 effective 16S rRNA genes were classified into 30 bacteria phyla, and 7 cyanobacterial genera were determined in phyla of Cyanobacteria. Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi, Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria, Planctomycetes, and Cyanobacteria were dominant groups in all samples (>5% of total effective sequences). Only Microcoleus, Leptolyngbya, Microcystis, Stigonema, Chroococcidiopsis, Phormidium, and Lyngbya were determined in rare earth mine tailings. Leptolyngbya was wildly distributed in rare earth tailings except for natural woodland, while Microcoleus was found in all of the studying areas in this study. Mining activities could cause the amount of unknown cyanobacteria specie pnr_Chloroplast abnormal. Additionally, results showed that cyanobacteria community composition was not correlated with soil organic matter SOM, but cyanobacteria richness and diversity were limited by the high content of ammonia nitrogen, and Leptolyngbya and Microcoleus could apply to abandoned ion-absorbed rare earth mining tailings repairment.
Cytological Study of Family Aeshnidae (Odonata: Anisoptera) From India: A Review
Authors: Somal Dalveer Singh , Walia Gurinder Kaur
Published: January 2023

ABSTRACT: Cytological review of 59 aeshnid species and cytogenetic investigations on Anax ephippiger, Anax immaculifrons, Anax indicus, Anax nigrofasciatus nigrolineatus, Anax parthenope, Gynacantha subinterrupta of the family Aeshnidae by carbol fuchsin staining and C - banding have been under taken. All the species posses 2n = 27m with X0 - XX sex determination except Anax ephippiger with 2n = 14 + neo XY, resulted by the 13 simultaneous fusions among the autosomes and between autosome and sex chromosome. The structure and behaviour of chromosomes, variation in size of m chromosomes and X chromosome and distribution of C - heterochromatin have been studied and compared among the species. C - bands are mostly present at the terminal regions of autosomal bivalents, while Anax ephippiger and Anax parthenope also possess C - bands at the interstitial and sub-terminal regions of the bivalents. Moreover, sex chromosome and m bivalent show variation in distribution of C-heterochromatin in the species. Out of these, chromosome complement of Anax indicus Lieftinck, 1942 and C - banding on Anax ephippiger and Anax indicus have been investigated for the first time. List of cytologically studied species of family Aeshnidae has been updated to 60 species.
Prognostic Potential of Argyrophillic Nucleolar Organizer Regions (Agnors) in Oral Lesions: A Systematic Review
Authors: Singh Shafali , Bhargava Deepak , Ali Sheeba , Mishra Richa , Chandavarkar Vidyadevi
Published: January 2023

Early detection of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD) is important for dental professionals to improve patient survival rates. More than half of patients with oral squamous cell cancer had advanced disease at the time of diagnosis, indicating a lack of early detection and risk assessment biomarkers. The development of new protein biomarkers will help in early diagnosis and treatment.The argyrophilic nucleolar organiser regions (AgNORs) staining technique is simple and cost-effective. These are replicatory markers that identify epithelial dysplasia. And it also plays a very important role in differentiating the benign, pre-malignant, and malignant lesions of the oral cavity. The number of AgNORs per cell has been considered an indicator of cellular proliferative activity. Microscopically, NORs can be identified as well-defined black dots located throughout the cell nucleus. The agNOR quantity is strictly proportional to the proliferative activity of the cell. AgNOR quantification helps in the determination of the degree of epithelial dysplasia and, consequently, in the analysis of its potential for malignant transformation. AgNOR qualitative characteristics help in differentiating hyperplastic, premalignant, and malignant oral lesions. The sliver staining technique is useful for studying the structure of the nucleolus as well as the variations in its activity. AgNORs are a valuable parameter in tumour pathology.
Pathophysiology of Multidrug Resistant Klebseilla pneumoniae Causing UTI Infection in Pregnant Women
Authors: Rao N. Sreenivasa , Munjam Srinivas
Published: January 2023

Increasing and indiscriminate use of antibiotics for human, veterinary, aquaculture and agriculture along with contamination of water and soil by pharmaceutical industries is the major of increased antimicrobial resistance in recent times. Among the microbes resistant to different drugs, urinary tract infections (UTI) are found to be the highest contributors to antibiotic resistance in microbes. The present study was intended to contribute towards the determination of prevalence of antibiotic resistance of Klebsiella pneumoniae, among patients suffering from urinary tract infections who visit hospitals for treatment. Among 2011 samples tested for UTI, 386 (19.34%) samples tested positive. Klebsiella accounted for 90 (23.23%) of the positive cases tested, and the isolates were extended-spectrum -lactamase (ESBL) producers with very high resistance to quinolones, aminoglycosides, carbapenems, and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim, but were susceptible to polymixins, Nitrofurantoin, and levofloxacin. The highest prevalence was found among women within the age group of 24-27 years. Of the 90 isolates, 42 isolates were multi drug resistant (MDR) and 48 isolates were non-MDR. Molecular identification using 16S rDNA analysis showed that the isolates were highly resistant organisms and possessed a similarity of more than 99% with UTI isolates reported to have antibiotic resistance.
In vitro Mycorrhization of Two Wild Edible Bolete Species with Pinus gerardiana - An Economically High Altitude Conifer
Authors: Sehgal Amit Kumar , Sagar Anand
Published: January 2023

This paper describes for the first time in vitro mycorrhization between the two wild edible boletes (Boletus edulis and Suillus sibiricus) with Pinus gerardiana. The synthesis was carried out in a controlled growth chamber using peat, vermiculite, fungal medium and mycelial inoculum of each fungi in test tubes. The test tubes were regularly observed for mycorrhization. The seedlings of P. gerardiana were picked after five months of inoculation to examine symbiotic association between its root system with B. edulis and S. sibiricus. The B. edulis formed dark reddish brown whereas S. sibiricus synthesized light brown orange coloured mycorrhizae. The transverse sections of synthesized mycorrhizae showed a well developed fungal mantle and Hartig net for both (B. edulis and S. sibiricus) ectomycorrhizal fungi tested. The mycorrhization has significant effect on the overall growth of seedlings as compared to control.
Repurposing Over-the-Counter Drugs and an Iron-Chelator as Antibacterial Agents
Authors: K Gokarn , Jadhav P Jadhav P , Sagar R Sagar R , p Pankar , S Odapalli S
Published: January 2023

The conventional drug discovery and development process takes a long time and is not financially viable at times. Repurposing or repositioning existing drugs for treating new diseases seems to be a feasible alternative to this problem. Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs such as Rantac (antacid), Draminate (antiemetic), Diclofenac (painkiller), Sinarest (for respiratory disorders), and Desifer (iron-chelator) were included in this study against eight laboratory cultures. Objective: Repurposing Desifer and the OTC drugs as antibacterial agents. Methods: Aqueous preparations of the OTC drugs and Desifer were checked for their antibacterial activity by the ditch plate method. The Agar cup diffusion method was used to determine the MIC of the individual drugs against gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. The synergistic activity of supernatants of OTC drugs with Desifer was determined using agar cup diffusion and micro broth dilution methods. MTT assay was performed with cell lines to determine anticancer and cytotoxic activity. Results and Discussion: Supernatants of drugs used showed antibacterial activity against at least one laboratory culture used. MIC of OTC drugs decreased to one-fourth of individual MIC when used in combination with Desifer, indicating that Desifer enhanced their inhibitory action. Desifer and Diclofenac exhibit anticancer activity, and low cytotoxicity, therefore could be good candidates as chemotherapeutic agents. Conclusion: A combination of the drugs such as Diclofenac and Desifer could be an effective alternative therapy to treat bacterial infections. With emerging drug resistance, Desifer with OTC drugs proves to be a good strategy to enhance the effectiveness of antibacterial drugs.
First-time revision knee arthroplasty using a hinged prosthesis
Authors: Clement Nick D. , Avery Peter , Mason James , Baker Paul N. , Deehan David J.
Published: January 2023

Aims

The aim of this study was to identify variables associated with time to revision, demographic details associated with revision indication, and type of prosthesis employed, and to describe the survival of hinge knee arthroplasty (HKA) when used for first-time knee revision surgery and factors that were associated with re-revision.

Methods

Patient demographic details, BMI, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade, indication for revision, surgical approach, surgeon grade, implant type (fixed and rotating), time of revision from primary implantation, and re-revision if undertaken were obtained from the National Joint Registry data for England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Isle of Man over an 18-year period (2003 to 2021).

Results

There were 3,855 patient episodes analyzed with a median age of 73 years (interquartile range (IQR) 66 to 80), and the majority were female (n = 2,480, 64.3%). The median time to revision from primary knee arthroplasty was 1,219 days (IQR 579 to 2,422). Younger age (p < 0.001), decreasing ASA grade (p < 0.001), and indications for revision of sepsis (p < 0.001), unexplained pain (p < 0.001), non-polyethylene wear (p < 0.001), and malalignment (p < 0.001) were all associated with an earlier time to revision from primary implantation. The median follow-up was 4.56 years (range 0.00 to 17.52), during which there were 410 re-revisions. The overall unadjusted probability of re-revision for all revision HKAs at one, five, and ten years after surgery were 2.7% (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.2 to 3.3), 10.7% (95% CI 9.6 to 11.9), and 16.2% (95% CI 14.5 to 17.9), respectively. Male sex (p < 0.001), younger age (p < 0.001), revision for septic indications (p < 0.001) or implant fracture (p = 0.010), a fixed hinge (p < 0.001), or surgery performed by a non-consultant grade (p = 0.023) were independently associated with an increased risk of re-revision.

Conclusion

There were several factors associated with time to first revision. The re-revision rate was 16.2% at ten years; however, the risk factors associated with an increased risk of re-revision could be used to counsel patients regarding their outcome. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(1):47–55.
A clinical and radiological matched-pair analysis of patients treated with the PRECICE and STRYDE magnetically driven motorized intramedullary lengthening nails
Authors: Vogt Bjoern , Rupp Carolin , Gosheger Georg , Eveslage Maria , Laufer Andrea , Toporowski Gregor , Roedl Robert , Frommer Adrien
Published: January 2023

Aims

Distraction osteogenesis with intramedullary lengthening devices has undergone rapid development in the past decade with implant enhancement. In this first single-centre matched-pair analysis we focus on the comparison of treatment with the PRECICE and STRYDE intramedullary lengthening devices and aim to clarify any clinical and radiological differences.

Methods

A single-centre 2:1 matched-pair retrospective analysis of 42 patients treated with the STRYDE and 82 patients treated with the PRECICE nail between May 2013 and November 2020 was conducted. Clinical and lengthening parameters were compared while focusing radiological assessment on osseous alterations related to the nail’s telescopic junction and locking bolts at four different stages.

Results

Osteolysis next to the telescopic junction was observed in 31/48 segments (65%) lengthened with the STRYDE nail before implant removal compared to 1/91 segment (1%) in the PRECICE cohort. In the STRYDE cohort, osteolysis initially increased, but decreased or resolved in almost all lengthened segments (86%) after implant removal. Implant failure was observed in 9/48 STRYDE (19%) and in 8/92 PRECICE nails (9%). Breakage of the distal locking bolts was found in 5/48 STRYDE nails (10%) compared to none in the PRECICE cohort. Treatment-associated pain was generally recorded as mild and found in 30/48 patients (63%) and 39/92 (42%) in the STRYDE and PRECICE cohorts, respectively. Temporary range of motion (ROM) limitations under distraction were registered in 17/48 (35%) segments treated with the STRYDE and 35/92 segments (38%) treated with the PRECICE nail.

Conclusion

Osteolysis and periosteal reaction, implant breakage, and pain during lengthening and consolidation is more likely in patients treated with the STRYDE nail compared to the PRECICE nail. Temporary ROM limitations during lengthening occurred independent of the applied device. Implant-related osseous alterations seem to remodel after implant removal. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(1):88–96.
Structurally intact and functionally incompetent foveal triangular fibrocartilage complex injuries
Authors: Crowe Christopher S. , Kakar Sanj
Published: January 2023

Injury to the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) may result in ulnar wrist pain with or without instability. One component of the TFCC, the radioulnar ligaments, serve as the primary soft-tissue stabilizer of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). Tears or avulsions of its proximal, foveal attachment are thought to be associated with instability of the DRUJ, most noticed during loaded pronosupination. In the absence of detectable instability, injury of the foveal insertion of the radioulnar ligaments may be overlooked. While advanced imaging techniques such as MRI and radiocarpal arthroscopy are well-suited for diagnosing central and distal TFCC tears, partial and complete foveal tears without instability may be missed without a high degree of suspicion. While technically challenging, DRUJ arthroscopy provides the most accurate method of detecting foveal abnormalities. In this annotation the spectrum of foveal injuries is discussed and a modified classification scheme is proposed.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(1):5–10.
Clinical effectiveness of the Ganga Hospital Open Injury Severity Score for limb salvage versus amputation in patients with complex limb injuries
Authors: Ndlovu Sebastian , Naqshband Mumraiz , Masunda Stanley , Ndlovu Kudzayi , Chettiar Krissen , Anugraha Anoop
Published: January 2023

Aims

Clinical management of open fractures is challenging and frequently requires complex reconstruction procedures. The Gustilo-Anderson classification lacks uniform interpretation, has poor interobserver reliability, and fails to account for injuries to musculotendinous units and bone. The Ganga Hospital Open Injury Severity Score (GHOISS) was designed to address these concerns. The major aim of this review was to ascertain the evidence available on accuracy of the GHOISS in predicting successful limb salvage in patients with mangled limbs.

Methods

We searched electronic data bases including PubMed, CENTRAL, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify studies that employed the GHOISS risk tool in managing complex limb injuries published from April 2006, when the score was introduced, until April 2021. Primary outcome was the measured sensitivity and specificity of the GHOISS risk tool for predicting amputation at a specified threshold score. Secondary outcomes included length of stay, need for plastic surgery, deep infection rate, time to fracture union, and functional outcome measures. Diagnostic test accuracy meta-analysis was performed using a random effects bivariate binomial model.

Results

We identified 1,304 records, of which six prospective cohort studies and two retrospective cohort studies evaluating a total of 788 patients were deemed eligible for inclusion. A diagnostic test meta-analysis conducted on five cohort studies, with 474 participants, showed that GHOISS at a threshold score of 14 has a pooled sensitivity of 93.4% (95% confidence interval (CI) 78.4 to 98.2) and a specificity of 95% (95% CI 88.7 to 97.9) for predicting primary or secondary amputations in people with complex lower limb injuries.

Conclusion

GHOISS is highly accurate in predicting success of limb salvage, and can inform management and predict secondary outcomes. However, there is a need for high-quality multicentre trials to confirm these findings and investigate the effectiveness of the score in children, and in predicting secondary amputations. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(1):21–28.
Metamaterial Loaded Compact Multiband Monopole Antenna for Wireless Applications
Authors: Thankachan Shiney , Paul Binu , Pradeep Anju , Mohanan Pezholil , Moolat Remsha
Published: January 2023

This paper proposes the design of a compact monopole antenna loaded with metamaterial (MTM), for multiband operation for wireless local area network (WLAN) and Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) applications. The monopole antenna is originally designed to operate in 2.8 GHz and 6 GHz The placement of MTM yields one additional band at 3.5 GHz corresponding to WiMAX with a shift in frequency of the original monopole to the WLAN frequencies of 2.4 GHz and 5.5 GHz with improved matching at the higher band. Dependencies of resonant frequencies on various parameters are formulated through regression analysis and a design equation for the proposed antenna is developed. The full-wave simulation and design equation of the three resonances show a negligible difference. A comparative study of the developed monopole with reported antennas shows that the developed structure is compact with an overall dimension of 19 x 31 mm2. The measured results of the antenna show good impedance bandwidth of 6.25%, 24.57%, and 16.54% for the three bands centered at 2.4, 3.5, and 5.5 GHz The antenna compactness is obtained due to metamaterial loading. All the simulated radiation characteristics of the proposed antenna are validated experimentally. The proposed antenna obtains a compact electrical size of 0.248x0.152 λ02 at 2.4 GHz. with multi-band operations at frequencies 2.4 GHz, 3.5 GHz and 5.5 GHz corresponding to WLAN and WiMAX.
Convolutional Neural Network for Coupling Matrix Extraction of Microwave Filters
Authors: Sallam Tarek , Attiya Ahmed M.
Published: January 2023

Tuning a microwave filter is a challenging problem due to its complexity. Extracting coupling matrix from given S-parameters is essential for ?lter tuning and design. In this paper, a deep-learning-based neural network namely, a convolutional neural network (CNN) is proposed to extract coupling matrix from S-parameters of microwave filters. The training of the proposed CNN is based on a circuit model. In order to exhibit the robustness of the new technique, it is applied on 5- and 8-pole filters and compared with a shallow neural network namely, radial basis function neural network (RBFNN). The results reveal that the CNN can extract the coupling matrix of target S-parameters with high accuracy and speed.
Obtaining Feasible Minimum Side Lobe Level for Narrow Beam Width Using Convex Optimization in Linear, Planar, and Random Antenna Arrays
Authors: Shaker Rana R. , Mohammed Jafar R.
Published: January 2023

In many applications, the radiating elements of the used antenna may be configured in the form of a one-dimensional linear array, or two-dimensional planar array or even random array. In such applications, a simple optimization algorithm is highly needed to optimally determine the excitation amplitudes and phases of the array elements to maximize the system’s performance. This paper uses a convex optimization instead of other complex global stochastic optimizations to synthesize a linear, planar, and random array patterns under pre-specified constraint conditions. These constraints could be either fixed beam width with the lowest possible sidelobe levels or fixed sidelobe level with narrower possible beam width. Two approaches for array pattern optimization have been considered. The first one deals with the problem of obtaining a feasible minimum sidelobe level for a given beam width, while the second one tries to obtain a feasible minimum beam width pattern for a given sidelobe level. Both optimization approaches were applied to the linear, planar, and random arrays. Simulation results verified the effectiveness of both optimization approaches and for all considered array configurations.