Implementation of a customised antimicrobial resistance laboratory scorecard in Cameroon, Ethiopia and Keny

Background: In low-resource settings, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is detected by traditional culture-based methods and ensuring the quality of such services is a challenge. The AMR Scorecard provides laboratories with a technical assessment tool for strengthening the quality of bacterial culture, identification, and antimicrobial testing procedures. Objective: To evaluate the performance of the AMR Scorecard in 11 pilot laboratory evaluations in three countries also assessed with the Stepwise Laboratory Quality Improvement Process Towards Accreditation (SLIPTA) checklist.Methods: Pilot laboratory evaluations were conducted in Cameroon, Ethiopia and Kenya between February 2019 and March 2019. Assessors with previous SLIPTA and microbiology experience were trained. Assessors performed the laboratory assessments using the SLIPTA and AMR Scorecard tools.Results: Weaknesses in technical procedures and the quality management systems were identified in all areas and all laboratories. Safety had the highest mean performance score (SLIPTA: 68%; AMR Scorecard: 73%) while management review had the lowest (SLIPTA: 32%; AMR Scorecard: 8%) across all laboratories. The AMR Scorecard scores were generally consistent with SLIPTA scores. The AMR Scorecard identified technical weaknesses in AMR testing, and SLIPTA identified weaknesses in the quality management systems in the laboratories.Conclusion: Since the AMR Scorecard identified important gaps in AMR testing not detected by SLIPTA, it is recommended that microbiology laboratories use SLIPTA and the AMR Scorecard in parallel when preparing for accreditation. Expanding the use of the AMR Scorecard is a priority to address the need for quality clinical microbiology laboratory services in support of optimal patient care and AMR surveillance.

Presença de RNA do SARS-CoV-2 em fezes de pacientes com COVID-19 / Presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in faeces of COVID-19 patients

A COVID-19, doença causada pelo novo Coronavírus, alastrou-se rapidamente por todos os continentes promovendo uma pandemia. Estudos relacionados à fisiopatologia da COVID-19 demonstraram que o vírus SARS-CoV-2 invade células da mucosa intestinal, sendo eliminado nas fezes, alertando para possibilidade da transmissão da doença por via fecal-oral. A presença do vírus nas fezes aventou também a expectativa de utilizar essa amostra biológica para fins diagnósticos. Nesta revisão, resumimos os estudos recentes relacionados à investigação da presença do RNA do SARS-CoV-2 nas fezes de pacientes com COVID-19.

Dried Pig Feces: Impacts on Growth, Haematology and Histology of Clarias gariepinus

Aims: Improper utilization and disposal of pig faeces in pig farms have been a great concern due to their hazards and risks they constitute to the environment. This situation calls for effective utilization of pig Feces for fish feed. This project was designed to provide information on safe level of Dried Pig Feces (DPF) on growth, histology and haematology of Clarias gariepinus. Study Design: A twelve week feeding trial experiment was conducted using one hundred and fifty samples of C. gariepinus juveniles. The fish meal was replaced at different graded levels of DPF (0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%) and was coded T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 respectively. Materials and Methods: Growth parameters, histology of vital organs and haematology of the fish samples were determined according to standard methods. Data obtained were analysed using ANOVA and Duncan multiple range test was used to separate the means. Results: The Mean Weight Gain (MWG) revealed a significant (P<0.05) value in T3 (69.40 g), while 100% inclusion exhibited lowest MWG (21.07%). The Packed Cell Volume, Haemoglobin and Red Blood Cell values obtained decreased with increase in DPF inclusions, while an increase was observed in T4 (26.50%). White Blood Cell count was significant (P<0.05) in T3 (16,150±2.07 g/l) and decreased in T4(15,800±1.01 g/l) and T5(12,650±0.85 g/l) respectively. Histological results confirmed the absence of lesions in the heart, gills and the intestine of fish samples. Lesions in the liver were severed in T4 and T5. Conclusions: The findings of this study revealed that 50% inclusion of DPF is the safe level for growth of C. gariepinus. Since the histological results revealed no lesions in all the vital organs, except the liver that had severe lesions, DPF can be recommended as an alternative feed ingredient.

Clinics in diagnostic imaging (198). Small bowel obstruction secondary to a bezoar

A 60-year-old man presented with abdominal pain. He was later diagnosed on imaging to have high-grade small bowel obstruction. The patient underwent surgery, and a hard, rounded bezoar resembling the endosperm of Nypa fruticans, colloquially known as attap chee, was found at the point of obstruction. Small bowel obstruction is a common acute surgical condition with multiple causes, including bezoars. We discuss the typical imaging features of bezoars causing small bowel obstruction as well as potential pitfalls that can mimic the appearance of a bezoar.

Diversity of microbiota composition of traditional Chinese medicine of Faeces Trogopterori from Shangluo, Shanxi province by sequence of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene / 药学学报

To obtain the microbial composition of traditional Chinese medicine of Faeces Trogopterori, ten samples were collected from the imitate wildness farmland in Shangluo City, Shaanxi Province. In this study, 16S rRNA gene was used as molecular marker to explore the microbiome and the sequences were analyzed by Usearch analysis platform. The COG and KEGG database is used to predict and analyze the function of the flora. A great number of 285 218 high quality clean reads with a length of 400-450 bp were obtained from 10 samples. Bacterial species detected in these samples covered 8 phyla, 25 families, 75 genera and 120 species. The dominant phylum microbial communities in these samples were Firmicutes (87.68% ± 2.68%) and the Bacteroidetes (7.62% ± 3.74%), all samples showed a high microbial diversity, the predicted functional metagenome was heavily involved in energy metabolism. This study provided that the beneficial bacteria in Faeces Trogopterori may be one of its active ingredients, and no pathogens are detected in the sample.

Colecistectomizados, litiasis vesicular y ácidos biliares totales elevados en heces como factores de riesgo para lesiones colónicas / Cholecystectomized patients, vesicular lithiasis and elevated total bile acids in faces as risk factors for colon lesions

Introducción: Evidencias científicas avalan que niveles elevados de ácidos biliares en la luz intestinal se asocian con lesiones inflamatorias, premalignas y malignas de colon. Objetivo: Argumentar científicamente la condición de niveles elevados de ácidos biliares totales en heces, litiasis vesicular y colecistectomizado como factores de riesgo para lesiones de colon. Método: Se realizó una investigación analítica en el Instituto de Gastroenterología y el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso desde 2002 hasta 2015. En el estudio se incluyeron adultos con sintomas digestivos bajos. Se desarrollaron dos momentos: la determinación del riesgo relativo de la presencia de lesiones colónicas diagnosticadas por endoscopía y la identificación por histología. Se utilizaron métodos estadísticos como la prueba chi cuadrado de Pearson, determinación del riesgo relativo, regresión logística, entre otros. Resultados: Se observó mayor probabilidad de presentar algún diagnóstico endoscópico e histológico positivo para todas las edades y sexo, en pacientes con niveles elevados de ácidos biliares totales en heces y los colecistectomizados. Los riesgos relativos comunes y más altos se relacionaron con adenomas tubulares de alto grado de displasia y tubulovellosos. Los diagnósticos más frecuentes fueron pólipos y adenomas. Conclusiones: Los resultados avalan que los niveles elevados de ácidos biliares totales en heces, la litiasis vesicular y estar colecistectomizado, constituyen factores de riesgo para lesiones de colon. Se recomienda incluir estas tres condiciones de riesgo en los programas de pesquisa para el cáncer colorrectal(AU)

Introduction: Scientific evidence supports that elevated levels of bile acids in the intestinal lumen are associated with inflammatory, premalignant and malignant lesions of the colon. Objective: To scientifically support the condition of elevated levels of total bile acids in faeces, vesicular and cholecystectomized lithiasis as risk factors for colonic lesions. Method: An analytical research was carried out in the Gastroenterology Institute and the National Center for Minimally-Invasive Surgery, from 2002 to 2015. The study included adults with low digestive symptoms. Two moments were developed: the determination of the relative risk for the presence of colonic lesions diagnosed by endoscopy and the identification by histologic study. Statistical methods were used, such as the Pearson chi-square test, the relative risk determination, logistic regression, among others. Results: Higher probability was observed for all ages and sexes to present a positive endoscopic and histological diagnosis, in patients with high levels of total bile acids in feces and in cholecystectomized patients. The common and higher relative risks were related to tubular adenomas of high degree of dysplasia and tubulovillous. The most frequent diagnoses were polyps and adenomas. Conclusions: The results support that high levels of total bile acids in faeces, vesicular lithiasis and being cholecystectomized constitute risk factors for colonic lesions. These three risk conditions are recommended to be included in screening programs for colorectal cancer(AU)

Analysis of gene and drug resistance of ESBL producing bacteria in neonatal feces / 临床儿科杂志

Objectives To explore the route of ESBL producing bacteria in neonatal faeces, and to investigate the gene and drug resistance of ESBL producing bacteria in intestinal tract of neonates. Methods Fecal samples of healthy newborns and their mothers were collected, and bacterial cultures were carried out using selective ESBL medium. The positive strains were identified by Time-of-flight mass spectrometry. ESBL genotyping and resistance gene detection were performed by whole genome sequencing technique. Results In 146 neonatal fecal specimens, the positive rate of ESBL producing bacteria was 8.90％,and the positive rate in the first time stool was 3.23％. Seventy-two hours after birth, the positive rate of fecal ESBL producing bacteria was 13.10％. Among the 13 ESBL producing strains, there were 9 strains of CTX type, 3 strains of TEM type and 1 strain of SHV type. Nine strains of CTX include five types such as CTX-M-24, CTX-M-18, CTX-M-27, CTX-M-42 and CTX-M-15. The positive rate of ESBL producing bacteria was 21.6％ in 167 mothers' fecal specimens. The ESBL genotype included 24 strains of CTX type, 6 strains of TEM type, 4 strains of SHV type and 2 strains of QnrS type. Twenty-four strains of CTX include CTX-M-24, CTX-M-14, CTX-M-18, CTX-M-27, CTX-M-42 and CTX-M-15. There were 2 or 3 ESBL genotypes in 12 maternal and neonatal specimens. It was detected to have 6 types of resistance gene such as aadA5, strA, strB, sul1, sul2 and dfrA17 in 49 strains of ESBL producing bacteria in maternal and neonatal strains. Resistance genes were exactly the same in the neonates as in mothers who were detected to have ESBL producing bacteria. A variety of resistance genes were detected in feces in 7 neonates and 23 mothers. Conclusions The neonates in hospital may be detected to have ESBL produing bacteria in the intestinal tract at the same time as their mothers or separately. However, there are many ways for neonates to have ESBL producing bacteria in intestinal tract. There are many genotypes and resistance genes of ESBL producing bacteria.

Estudo coproparasitológico da espécie Cebus libidinosus (macaco-prego) / Fecal study of the species Cebus libidinosus (capuchin monkey)

Os estudos sobre parasitos gastrintestinais em primatas mantidos em cativeiros são importantes para o manejo da população de macacos e para a manutenção da saúde das pessoas que trabalham com esses animais, pois muitos desses parasitos são potentes causadores de zoonoses. Este trabalho objetivou estudar os parasitas presentes nas fezes da espécie Cebus libidinosus, criada em cativeiro. Foram utilizados 22 animais apreendidos pelo Ibama-PI, Ibama-PB e Cipama (Companhia Independente de Policiamento Ambiental do Piauí), no período de 2007 a 2009, que faziam parte do Projeto de Soltura Experimental em Ilhas Lacustres de Espécies do Gênero Cebus sp., do Ibama-PI. Foram encontrados parasitas do gênero Ancylostoma em 45% (10/22) das amostras e do gênero Strongyloides em 23% (05/22). No método de Willis (1921) e no método de Hoffman, o Ancylostoma sp. estava presente em 41% (09/22) e o Strongyloides sp. em 18% (04/22) das amostras. A coprocultura revelou a presença de larva do gênero Ancylostoma em 50% dos grupos estudados. A espécie Cebus libidinosus revelou-se parasitada por helmintos gastrintestinais dos gêneros Ancylostoma e Strongyloide.(AU)

The studies of gastrointestinal parasites in primates kept in captivity are important for managing the population of monkeys and to maintain the health of people who work with these animals, as many of these parasites are potent causes of zoonosis. The study investigated the parasites present in the feces of Cebus libidinosus species bred in captivity. 22 animals were seized by IBAMA-PI, IBAMA-PB and CIPAMA (Independent Company of Piaui Environmental Policing) from 2007 to 2009. Hookworm parasites of the genus were found in 45% (10/22) of samples and gender Strongiloyde in 23% (22/05) in the Willis method (1921) and Hoffman method Ancylostoma sp. I was present in 41% (09/22) and Strongyloides sp. 18% (04/22) of the samples. A stool culture revealed the presence of hookworm larvae of the genus in 50% of the groups studied. The species Cebus libidinosus proved to be parasitized by gastrointestinal helminths of Ancylostoma and Strongyloides genres.(AU)

Determination of Residual Solvents in Faeces Bombycis Extract by GC / 中国药师

Objective:To establish a method for the determination of solvent residues in faeces bombycis extract by GC .Meth-ods: A GC-headspace injection method was adopted to detect the residual organic solvents in the extract of faeces bombycis .A DB-5MS (30 m ×0.25 mm ×0.25 μm) quartz capillary column was used as the chromatographic column;nitrogen was used as the carrier gas at a flow rate of 0.6 ml· min-1;the injector temperature was 200℃;the detector was a flame ionization detector( FID) with the temperature of 250℃;the temperature program included two phases:the initial temperature was set at 40℃for 10 min, and then risen to 200℃at a rate of 5℃· min-1 and maintained for 5 min;the equilibrium temperature of headspace was 95℃;the equilibrium time was 30 min;the capillary temperature was 110℃;the injection ring temperature was 125℃.Results:The linear range of acetone , 2, 3-dimethylpentane, 3-methylhexane, heptane, 2,2-dimethylhexane, p-xylene, m-xylene, O-xylene and 2,4,6-collidine was 101-3 034μg· ml-1 , 100-2 995 μg· ml-1 , 107-3 197 μg· ml-1 , 101-3 019 μg· ml-1 , 99-2 962 μg· ml-1 , 45-1 358 μg· ml-1 , 44-1 325μg· ml-1, 47-1 411 μg· ml-1 and 104-3 130 μg· ml-1, respectively, and the average r was all above 0.992.The recovery of the method met the requirement , and the blank solvent showed no interference .Eight samples were all accordance with the requirements after the examination .Conclusion:The headspace injection method for the determination of residual organic solvents in the extract of faeces bombycis is simple and reliable .

Leafy Vegetables Free Of Coliforms And Parasites After Washing In Chlorine Treated Water

The production and preparation of vegetables for consumption involve procedures that pose health risks to consumers. In this context the water plays an important role in the quality of minimally processed vegetables. We assessed the hygienic-sanitary quality of leafy vegetables and obtained data of interest to health surveillance agencies and public health. They were tested for the presence of total and faecal coliforms, and also parasitic protozoa and helminths. The vegetable samples were purchased in supermarkets of the Midwest of the State of Santa Catarina, Brazil. We performed bacteriological analyses of wash water samples using chromogenic substrates to obtain the most probable number of the coliform group at 35 °C and Escherichia coli. We used Hoffman's spontaneous sedimentation technique for the parasitological analysis in order to check the occurrence of heavy and light helminths eggs and protozoan cysts. The analyses indicated the presence of coliforms, nematodes and freeliving protozoa, except for the last wash. We concluded that the washing process using running water and no active chlorine was not efficient in reducing the load of microorganisms in the vegetables. Therefore, intensive educational programmes should be implemented by health authorities to encourage hygienic-sanitary practices and risk reduction of food-borne diseases.(AU)

A new laboratorial method for the diagnosis of gastrointestinal parasites in dogs / Um novo método laboratorial para diagnóstico de parasitos gastrointestinais em cães

In this study, we aimed to introduce a new technique called TF-Test Modified/Dog for the diagnosis of gastrointestinal parasites in dogs. Fecal samples from 106 dogs were processed by the technique TF-Test Modified/Dog and the techniques of centrifugation-flotation in zinc sulfate, simple-flotation by saturated solution of sodium chloride, direct microscopy exam and TF-Test Conventional. Sensitivity was higher in the TF-Test Modified/Dog (98.41%), followed by flotation in saturated zinc sulfate (77.78%), TF-Test Conventional (73.02%), flotation by saturated sodium chloride (55.55%), and direct microscopy exam (30.16%). The diagnostic efficiency varied from 58.49% to 99.06%, with the highest value also obtained by the new proposed technique. Efficiency level of 99.06% with kappa index 0.979 (almost perfect) was obtained with the TF-Test Modified/Dog. These results represent significant statistical gains (P < 0.05) of 20.63% in sensitivity and 12.27% in efficiency over the best among the other techniques ­ flotation by saturated zinc sulfate, whose kappa index was 0.738, much lower than that of the TF-Test Modified/Dog. All techniques presented 100% specificity. In this sense, the high sensitivity of the TF-Test Modified/Dog makes it suitable for epidemiological surveys of gastrointestinal parasitosis in dogs, zoonoses control and preventive surveillance programs.

O objetivo deste estudo foi introduzir a nova técnica TF-Test Modified/Dog para diagnóstico de parasitos gastrointestinais em cães. Amostras fecais de 106 cães foram processadas pela técnica de TF-Test Modified/Dog e também por técnicas de centrifugação-flutuação em sulfato de zinco, flutuação simples em solução saturada de cloreto de sódio, exame microscópico direto e TF-Test Convencional. A sensibilidade foi maior no TF-Test Modified/Dog (98,41%), seguido por centrífugo-flutuação em solução de sulfato de zinco (77,78%), TF-Test Convencional (73,02%), flutuação em solução saturada de cloreto de sódio (55,55%), e exame microscópico direto (30,16%). A eficiência diagnóstica variou de 58,49% a 99,06%, com maior valor obtido pela nova técnica. Foi obtido com o TF-Test Modified/Dog eficiência de 99,06%, com índice kappa de 0,979 (Quase perfeito). Estes resultados representam ganhos estatisticamente significativos (P < 0,05) de 20,63% de sensibilidade e 12,27% de eficiência sobre a melhor entre as outras técnicas empregadas, centrífugo-flutuação em solução de sulfato de zinco, cujo índice kappa foi 0,738, bem menor do que o TF-Test Modified/Dog. Todas as técnicas apresentaram especificidade de 100%. Nesse sentido, a sua alta sensibilidade o torna adequado para levantamentos epidemiológicos das parasitoses gastrointestinais em cães, bem como para programas de controle de zoonoses e de vigilância preventiva.

1H-NMR metabonomic study on fecal of chronic unpredicted mild stress model of depression in rats / 中草药

Objective: To obtain the potential biomarkers of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) rats, the change of endogenous metabolites in the faeces of CUMS rats was analyzed using 1H-NMR coupled with metabonomics. Methods: CUMS procedure was conducted for four weeks, CUMS rat model was duplicated, and the faeces of rats was collected at the end of the procedure. The change of endogenous metabolites in faeces was analyzed using 1H-NMR coupled with multivariate statistical analysis. Results: The PLS-DA scores plot demonstrated that behavior indexes of rats in the control group were significantly different from these of rats in CUMS group, suggesting the CUMS model of depression in rats was prepared successfully. Thirty metabolites were identified in the 1H-NMR spectra of faeces, the concentration of glutamine, lactate, and aspartate was increased while that of β-glucose, uracil, tyrosine, and phenylalanine was decreased in CUMS model group with the significant difference compared with the control group (P < 0.05, 0.01). Conclusion: By researching the change of endogenous metabolites in the faeces of CUMS rats, the potential biomarkers in the faeces of CUMS rats are picked up to lay the foundation for the study on the depression pathogenesis and clinical diagnosis.

A case report of cutaneous larva migrans in Argentina

Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) represents the most common tropically acquired dermatosis. CLM is caused by infection with hookworm larvae in tropical and sub-tropical areas, and people who have a history of foreign travel and of walking barefoot on sandy soil or beaches are at a high risk of getting infected with it. The diagnosis is usually made on the basis of the typical appearance of the lesion, intense itching and history of foreign travel. CLM is a common parasitic skin disease that can be easily prevented by wearing 'protective' footwear. A case of CLM is described in this article.

RP-HPLC Determination of 1,3-Dideoxygalactonojirimycin in Bombycis Faeces / 中草药·英文版

Objective To establish a simple and rapid method for the determination of 1,3-dideoxygalactonojirimycin in Bombycis Faeces, a potent glucosidase inihibitor, by HPLC. Methods A RP-HPLC method with fluorescence detection has been developed. Results The HPLC method developed in this research has a good reliability including accuracy and precision. The detection limit was less than 72 ng. Conclusion This method is sufficiently sensitive for determining 1,3-dideoxygalactonojirimycin in Bombycis Faeces and other related products.

Criptosporidiosis experimental en ratones albinos tratados con Metilprednisolona / Experimental Cryptosporidiosis in Albino Mice Treated with Methylprednisolone

Cryptosporidium spp., es un coccidio intracelular de distribución mundial responsable de un síndrome entérico en el hospedador inmunocompetente e inmunocomprometido. Se estudio la influencia inmunosupresora de la metilprednisolona (MP) en la evolución de la criptoporidiosis experimental en ratones de laboratorio. Se utilizaron dos grupos de cuatro ratones machos jóvenes cada uno; el primer grupo incluyó cuatro ratones infectados y tratados en forma interdiaria con MP a dosis de 16 mg/kg de peso durante cuatro semanas y el segundo grupo (control) cuatro ratones infectados y no tratados. El inóculo fue preparado a partir de Cryptosporidium spp. obtenido de un paciente con criptosporidiosis intestinal, administrando un volumen de 0,1 mL a través de una sonda oro-esofágica. Cada semana, se recogieron muestras de heces para realizar diagnóstico de criptosporidiosis intestinal mediante la coloración de Kinyoun. Se estudió la diseminación visceral del parásito tomando semanalmente un animal de cada grupo para necropsia, obteniéndose muestras de cada órgano para estudio histopatológico. Las formas parasitarias observadas, en tejidos, fueron como sigue: ooquistes, esporozoítos falciformes, formas sexuales, merozoítos libres y trofozoítos. Durante las cuatro semanas de estudio, la forma parasitaria predominante fue la de merozoíto libre. Se observó diseminación tisular en tráquea, glándula tiroides, intestino, bazo y ganglio linfático. No se observó el parásito en esófago, hígado, riñón y pulmón. En el grupo control la presencia del parásito se mantuvo limitada al intestino. La supervivencia de los animales fue del 100% en ambos grupos durante el período de estudio. La respuesta observada en los animales tratados con MP se expresó de manera evidente en la diseminación tisular del parásito en órganos distintos del aparato digestivo, efecto no demostrado en los animales infectados y no tratados. Sin embargo, el número total de formas parasitarias cuantificadas, no presentó diferencias notables durante las cuatro semanas que duró el experimento, pero si pudo demostrar que no es necesario un alto grado de inmunosupresión para que Criptosporidium spp. produzca formas extra-intestinales de la criptosporidiosis.

Cryptosporidium spp. is an intracellular coccidium distributed worlwide, which is responsible for an enteric syndrome in the immunoincompetent and immunocompromised host. This investigation was conducted to study the immunosuppressing influence of methylprednisolone (MP) during the course of experimental cryptosporidiosis in albino mice. A total of eight young male albino mice were studied and alloted into two groups: Group I: four infected mice treated every other day with a oral dose of 16 mg/kg of body weight of MP given through a stomach tube for four weeks; Group II (Control Group): four infected but untreated mice. A volume of 0.1 mL of an inoculum prepared from Cryptosporidium spp., obtained from stools of a patient with enteric cryptosporidiosis was given via a stomach tube. Every week, stool samples were collected for a diagnosis of intestinal cryptosporidiosis using the Kinyoun staining. The visceral dissemination of the parasite was studied by sampling weekly one animal of each group, and obtaining necropsy samples of each organ for histopathological examination. The parasitic forms observed in tissues were as follows: oocysts, falciform sporozoites, sexual forms, free merozoites, and trophozoites. The parasitic forms that prevailed during the experiment were the free merozoites. Parasitic dissemination to trachea, thyroid gland, intestine, spleen, and lymphatic ganglion was seen. In contrast, the parasite was not observed in esophagus, liver, kidneys and lungs. In Group II, the presence of the parasite was confined to the intestines. Mice survival was 100% for both groups during the study period.The results show that the observed response of animals treated with MP was evident with the parasite dissemination in organs other than the digestive tract, effect not shown in animals from Group II. Nonetheless, the total number of parasitic forms did not show overt differences during the duration of the experiment, although it was demonstrated that a high degree of immunosupression is not required to allow for the Cryptosporidium spp. dissemination in the extraintestinal forms of this disease.

Uso de psyllium para controle de constipação em cães / The use of psyllium to control constipation in dogs

psyllium (Plantago psyllium) é um vegetal comumente utilizado como adjuvante no tratamento de afecções que resultam em constipação. Com o objetivo de melhor compreender os efeitos dessa fibra em cães, foram realizados dois experimentos. O primeiro avaliou, em cães sadios, inclusões de 0 por cento, 2 por cento e 4 por cento de semente integral moída de psyllium à dieta (com base na matéria natural). Para tanto, foram empregados oito cães da raça Beagles adultos, os quais receberam as dietas experimentais por oito dias. Verificou-se aumento linear da umidade das fezes com a adição de teores crescentes de psyllium (R²=0,54 e P=0,0012), sem alteração do escore fecal e número de defecações por dia. O segundo experimento incluiu avaliação da opinião de 24 proprietários cujos cães receberam suplementação de 2 por cento de psyllium como parte do tratamento de afecções que causaram constipação. Dos proprietários incluídos, 19 (79,2 por cento) relataram melhora da defecação de seus cães durante a administração da fibra. Quinze (62,5 por cento) observaram que as fezes dos animais, antes ressecadas ou endurecidas, tornaram-se normais ou pastosas. Os resultados comprovaram para cães os efeitos laxativos do psyllium já descritos na medicina humana, indicando seu uso no tratamento de suporte de enfermidades que levam à constipação.

psyllium (Plantago psyllium) is a fiber generally used as a supplement in the treatment of diseases that led to constipation. To understanding of the effects of this fiber in dogs, two experiments were conducted. The first evaluated in healthy dogs a diet supplementation with 0 percent, 2 percent and 4 percent of ground whole psyllium seeds (as-fed basis). Eight adult Beagle dogs were used. They received the experimental diets for eight days. A linear increase of faecal moisture was verified with the addition of psyllium (R²=0.54 and P=0.0012), with no alteration on faecal score or number of defecations per day. The second experiment included 24 dogs with constipation. The dogs received a diet supplemented with 2 percent of psyllium as part of the treatment, and the owners were invited to answer a questionnaire. Nineteen (79.2 percent) owners reported that their dog had an easier defecation process during supplementation. Fifteen (62.5 percent) reported that the animals´ faeces, which were dry or hard at the start, became normal or pasty after psyllium consumption. The results confirmed a laxative effect of psyllium in dogs, which was already reported in human medicine, supporting the use of this fiber in the clinical management of diseases that cause constipation in dog.

Use of a saline gradient for the diagnosis of schistosomiasis

The development of novel methods for parasitological diagnosis that are both highly sensitive and low in cost has been strongly recommended by the World Health Organization. In this study, a new technique for diagnosis of schistosomiasis mansoni is proposed based on the differential sedimentation of eggs when subjected to a slow continuous flux of 3 percent saline solution through a porous plaque. This influx suspends low-density faecal material, effectively cleaning the sample. The remaining sediment covering the porous plaque surface is then transferred to a glass slide and examined under a bright field microscope. Twelve Kato-Katz slides were used for comparison in the present study. Our results suggest that the saline gradient method detects a signifi-cantly higher number of eggs than the 12 Kato-Katz slides (p < 0.0001). We also found microscopic inspection to be quicker and easier with our newly described method. After cleaning the sample, the obtained sediment can also be conserved in a 10 percent formaldehyde solution and examined for at least 45 days later without statistically significant egg count differences.

Bacterial contamination in milk kitchens in pediatric hospitals in Salvador, Brazil

Milk may represent an important source of infectious agents to hospitalized pediatric patients. To describe the bacterial microflora isolated from the hands, stools, pharynx of all workers at milk kitchens in pediatric hospitals in the city of Salvador, Brazil, as well as in the formulas prepared by them, we carried out this cross-sectional study with all 91 workers from the 20 milk kitchens of all the public and private hospitals in Salvador, Brazil. Hand and pharynx swabs and stool samples were collected from all workers, as well as samples of the milk and formulas delivered by the kitchens. All samples were cultured for the detection of pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria. Pathogenic bacteria were isolated from 20 (22.0 percent) and 8 (8.8 percent) cultures of the hands and pharynx of the workers, respectively. No pathogenic bacteria were isolated from stool samples. Pathogenic bacteria were isolated from 17 (18.7 percent) milk samples. The prevalence of pathogenic bacteria in hand swabs was significantly higher in workers from public (37.8 percent) than from private (6.5 percent) hospitals (prevalence ratio [PR]=5.8; p<0.01). Pathogenic bacteria were isolated from two (4.4 percent) workers from public hospitals and six (13.0 percent) workers from private hospitals (PR=0.38; p=0.27). Pathogenic bacteria were isolated from 11 (24.4 percent) milk samples from public hospitals and 6 (13.0 percent) from private hospitals (PR=1.9; p=0.16). A high prevalence of contamination was found, mainly on the hands of workers on units for manipulation of milk. Preventive efforts should be intensified and focus primarily on effective hand washing and continuous work supervision.

Detección de la Enterotoxina del Clostridium Perfringens tipo A, en muestras de heces de lechones lactantes con diarrea provenientes de granjas porcinas del estado Aragua

En lechones lactantes, las diarreas de origen bacteriano son las mas comunes. Una de ellas es la causada por C. perfringens tipo A, que a pesar de ser parte de la flora intestinal normal, se ha reportado como agente causante de enteritis a partir de la primera semana de vida. El objetivo de este estudio fue detectar la presencia de la enterotoxina de C. perfringens tipo A en lechones lactantes con diarrea, en edades comprendidas entre 1 y 15 días. La investigación se llevó a cabo en 20 granjas porcinas ubicadas en los municipios José Félix Ribas y Revenga del estado Aragua, que poseen una alta densidad de granjas porcinas. Los lechones fueron seleccionados mediante un muestreo al azar simple. Se obtuvo un total de 20 muestras, correspondientes a 20 granjas, las cuales fueron procesadas para la detección de la enterotoxina de C. perfringens tipo A, aplicando la prueba serológica de Aglutinación Pasiva Reversa en Látex (RPLA), resultando 6 granjas positivas (30%), lo que confirma la presencia de la enterotoxina de C. perfringens tipo A, asociado a diarreas en lechones lactantes entre 1 y 15 días de edad en granjas porcinas del estado Aragua.

Detection of Clostridium perfringens Enterotoxine Type A in Samples of Nursing Suckling Pigs with diarrhea from Porcine Farms of Aragua State Abstract Diarrheas of bacterial origin are the most common diarrheas in suckling pigs, especially those caused by C. perfringens Type A, which is a natural inhabitant of their normal intestinal flora. The C. perfringens Type A has been reported as a causative agent of enteritis from the first week of life. The purpose of this study was to detect the presence of C. perfringens enterotoxin Type A in suckling pigs with diarrhea from 1 to 15 days of age. The study was carried out in 20 porcine farms, located at José Félix Ribas and Revenga municipalities of Aragua State, Venezuela, which have a high density of porcine farms. Suckling pigs were selected by means of a random sampling. A total of 20 stool samples from 20 farms was obtained. The detection of C. perfringens enterotoxin Type A was made using the reverse passive latex agglutination test (RPLA). Results of the present study show that 6 farms (30 %) were detected positive, which confirms the presence of C. perfringens enterotoxin Type A, in association with diarrheas in suckling pigs between 1 to 15 days of age in porcine farms of Aragua State.

Ocorrência e distribuição de esporos de Clostridium botulinum tipos C e D em áreas de criação de búfalos na Baixada Maranhense

As botulism is a common disease in buffaloes raised in the low lands of the State of Maranhão, Brazil, the occurrence of Clostridium botulinum spores was evaluated in buffalo breeding areas of 4 municipalities in the "Baixada Maranhense". Twenty eight samples of faeces, mud and soil were collected and divided into 140 subsamples, being 40 of faeces, 65 of mud and 35 of soil. Botulinum toxin was detected in the filtrates of 104 cultures (74.28%) from 140 subsamples through the inoculation of mice. Using the microcomplement fixation technique for the identification of C. botulinum toxins, type C (14.29%), D (82.14%) and CD complex (3.57%) were found. No significant differences (P>0.05%) between faeces, mud and soil samples were observed. There was a high contamination with C. botulinum spores of the buffalo faeces, mud and soil in the areas studied. Identification of other types and subtypes of C. botulinum was not attempted.

Botulismo é enzoótico na criação de búfalos da Baixada Maranhense, Estado do Maranhão. No presente trabalho foram realizados estudos para verificar a ocorrência e distribuição de esporos de Clostridium botulinum tipos C e D em amostras de solo, limo e fezes de búfalos, colhidas aleatoriamente em áreas inundáveis da criação de búfalos nessa Baixada. A evidenciação de esporos foi realizada em 40 amostras de fezes, 65 de limo e 35 de solo, provenientes de quatro municípios, pelo cultivo em meio de cultura com carne cozida e posterior inoculação do sobrenadante filtrado em camundongo, na tentativa de verificação da presença de toxina botulínica. A tipificação de amostras positivas foi realizada pela microfixação de complemento. Os resultados revelaram que 104 (74,28%) das 140 amostras examinadas foram positivas para a presença de esporos de C. botulinum pelo teste indireto. Não houve diferença significativa (P>0,05) entre os valores obtidos quando das análises das amostras de solo (77,1%), limo (60,0%) e fezes (95,0%). Das 28 amostras de solo, limo e fezes positivas, que foram utilizadas para a tipificação, quatro (14,29%) foram classificadas como tipo C, 23 (82,14%) como tipo D e uma (3,5%) como pertencente ao complexo CD. Os resultados revelaram uma alta contaminação ambiental por C. botulinum em áreas de criação de búfalos da Baixada Maranhen-se. A identificação de outros tipos e de subtipos de C. botulinum não foi realizada.