Luz UVC como estratégia de desinfecção do ar e superfícies hospitalares / Luz UV-C como estrategia de desinfección del aire y superficies hospitalarias / UVC light as a strategy for disinfection of hospital air and surfaces

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a eficácia antimicrobiana de um dispositivo fixo emissor de luz UV-C na desinfecção de diferentes superfícies do ambiente hospitalar e sua eficácia antifúngica na qualidade do ar. Métodos Estudo quase-experimental realizado em uma unidade de internação hospitalar, que utilizou o Bioamostrador de ar Andersen® de seis estágios para análise do ar; e na avaliação das superfícies, utilizaram-se três suspensões de microrganismos (Acinetobacter sp. MDR, Escherichia coli e Klebsiella pneumoniae produtora de KPC) para contaminar o ambiente. Para ambos foram feitas coletas pré (controle) e pós-acionamento da luz UV-C (teste). Resultados Na avaliação do ar houve uma redução importante da contagem de colônias após a luz UV-C e não foram encontrados fungos patogênicos ou toxigênicos em nenhum dos dois momentos. Em relação à desinfecção das superfícies, nenhum crescimento bacteriano foi observado após a intervenção da luz, demonstrando 100% de inativação bacteriana nas condições testadas. Conclusão A utilização da tecnologia com emissão de luz UV-C fixa foi eficaz e pode ser considerada uma intervenção promissora para protocolos de desinfecção de superfícies hospitalares.

Resumen Objetivo Evaluar la eficacia antimicrobiana de un dispositivo fijo emisor de luz UV-C para la desinfección de diferentes superficies del ambiente hospitalario y su eficacia antifúngica en la calidad del aire. Métodos Estudio cuasi experimental realizado en una unidad de internación hospitalaria, en que se utilizó el biomuestreador de aire Andersen® de seis etapas para el análisis del aire. En el análisis de las superficies, se utilizaron tres suspensiones de microorganismos (Acinetobacter sp. MDR, Escherichia coli y Klebsiella pneumoniae productora de KPC) para contaminar el ambiente. En ambos se tomó una muestra antes (control) y después de accionar la luz UV-C (prueba). Resultados En el análisis del aire hubo una reducción importante del recuento de colonias después de la luz UV-C y no se encontraron hongos patógenos ni toxigénicos en ninguno de los dos momentos. Con relación a la desinfección de las superficies, no se observó ningún crecimiento bacteriano después de la intervención de la luz, lo que demuestra un 100 % de inactivación bacteriana en las condiciones analizadas. Conclusión El uso de la tecnología con emisión de luz UV-C fija fue eficaz y puede ser considerada una intervención prometedora para protocolos de desinfección de superficies hospitalarias.

Abstract Objective To evaluate a fixed UV-C light emitting device for its antimicrobial effectiveness in the disinfection of distinct surfaces and its antifungal effectiveness on air quality in the hospital environment. Methods This quasi-experimental study was conducted in a hospital inpatient unit, in which a six-stage air Biosampler (Andersen®) was used for air analysis. In the evaluation of surfaces, three suspensions of microorganisms (Acinetobacter sp. multidrug-resistant, Escherichia coli, and KPC-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae) were used to contaminate the environment. In both evaluations, pre- (control) and post-activation of UV-C light (test) collections were made. Results In the air evaluation, an important reduction was observed in the colony count after irradiation with UV-C light, and pathogenic or toxigenic fungi were not found in either of the two moments. Regarding the disinfection of surfaces, no bacterial growth was observed after the application of UV-C light, showing 100% bacterial inactivation under the tested conditions. Conclusion The use of fixed UV-C light emission technology was effective and can be considered a promising intervention for hospital surface disinfection protocols.

The Effect of Chlorhexidine on Bacterial Contamination of Hall Technique Elastomeric Orthodontic Separators and Gingival Health: A Pilot Study

ABSTRACT Objective: To study the effect of chlorhexidine on elastomeric orthodontic separators (EOS) bacterial-colonisation and gingival-health in Hall technique (HT) patients. Material and Methods: Prospective in-vivo pilot clinical study of EOS bacterial colonisation and primary-molar gingival health assessment in 20 patients (mean age 5.45±1.27 years) requiring bilateral HT crowns (40 teeth). One side received 1-minute 0.12% chlorhexidine-soaked-EOSs (Chx-EOSs), and the other side dry-EOSs (NoChx-EOSs). The EOSs were removed five-days later and underwent a bacterial enumeration technique. Plaque (PI) and Gingival (GI) indices were assessed pre-, five-days and three-months post-treatment. Wilcoxon-Signed-Rank/McNemar-Chi-square statistics were used (p<0.05). Results: Baseline unused/packaged EOSs' sterility check yielded zero colony-forming-units (CFU) per millilitre, but 100% of the used EOSs became colonised by oral-microorganisms. An overall trend of lower mean CFU count in Chx-EOSs (3.415± 0.78 x105 CFU/ml) compared to NoChx-EOSs (6.157±1.48 x105 CFU/ml) was observed (p=0.009). Both NoChx-EOSs and Chx-EOSs insertion sites showed evidence of gingivitis with no difference between PI and GI indices by site over time. Conclusion: There was a lower trend of bacterial colonization in chlorhexidine treated EOSs and an occurrence of gingivitis pre/post HT-treatment regardless of EOS type. The lack of difference in the gingival health may be inconclusive due to this pilot's low power suggesting the need for robust large scale studies.

Calidad microbiológica del aire en seis áreas de la microestación biológica- Zoocriadero de la Universidad Nacional Agraria de la Selva ­ Tingo María ­ Perú / Microbiological quality of air in six areas of the biological micro station - Zoocriadero of the Universidad Nacional Agraria de la Selva - Tingo Maria ­ Peru

El presente trabajo de investigación tiene como objetivo evaluar la calidad microbiológica del aire en seis áreas de la Microestación Biológica-Zoocriadero de la Universidad Nacional Agraria de la Selva-Tingo María-Perú; procediéndose de la siguiente manera: Se seleccionaron seis áreas de muestreo (A1: Boletería, A2: Caseta gallito de las rocas, A3: Zona de las tortugas, A4: Caseta del otorongo, A5: Caseta de los monos y A6: Cocina), de los cuales para la determinación de los parámetros físicos (PAS, temperatura, humedad relativa, precipitación y rosa de viento) se obtuvo información de la estación meteorológica de la UNAS y de lecturas directas en campo, para la determinación de las PAS se realizó por el método pasivo obteniéndose la mayor concentración de PAS en el área 1 "Boletería" (12.61 t/km2/mes, 11.08 t/km2/mes y 8.4 t/km2/mes) y la más baja en el área 5 "caseta de los monos" (2.80 t/km2/mes, 2.80 t/km2/mes y 3.2 t/km2/mes); para el análisis microbiológico se realizó por el método de borboteo en líquidos, identificándose 27 géneros entre bacterias y hongos, siendo las bacterias más frecuentes Bacillus sp., Staphylococcus sp., Enterobacter agglomerans, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter hafniae y algunas bacterias patógenas para el hombre como Streptococcus sp., Clostridium perfringens, Bacillus anthracis. Los hongos de mayor frecuencia son Penicillium sp., Aspergillius sp., Geotrichum sp., algunos hongos patógenos identificados: Microsporum sp., Epirophyton sp. Por otro lado, para la percepción del público como trabajadores se aplicó encuestas, donde indicaron que la calidad microbiológica del aire en la Microestación Biológica-Zoocriadero es regular(AU)

The objective of this research paper is to assess the microbiological quality of the air in six areas of the Biologial Micro-station and animal breeding farm of the Peruvian Univeristy "Universidad Nacional Agraria de la Selva in Tingo María, Perú", proceeding as follows: Six sampling areas were selected (A1: Ticket Office, A2: Cock-of-the-Rock hut, A3: Turtle area, A4: Otorongo hut, A5: Monkey hut, A6: Kitchen), of wich for the determination of the phisical parameters (SBP, temperature, relative humidity, precipitation and wind rose) information was obtained from the UNAS meteorological station and direct readings in the field. For the determination of SBP was performed by the passive method obtaining the high concentration of SBP in area 1 "Ticket Office" (12.61 t/km2/month, 11.08 t/km2/month and 8.4 t/km2/month) and the lowest in area 5 "monkey house" (2.80 t/km2/month, 2.80 t/km2/month and 3.2 t/km2/month); microbiological analysis was performed by the liquid bubbling method, identifying 27 genera incluiding bacteria and fungi, with the most frequent bacteria being Bacillus sp., Staphylococcus sp., Enterobacter agglomerans, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter hafniae and some bacteria pathogenic for humans such as Streptococcus sp., Clostridium perfringens and Bacillus anthracis. The most frequent fungi are Penicillium sp., Aspergillius sp. and Geotrichum sp.; some pathogenic fungi identified: Microsporum sp., Epirophyton sp. On the other hand,regarding the perception of the public and workers, surveys were applied, wich indicated that the microbiologial quality of the air in the Biological Micro-station and animal breeding farm is regular(AU)

Calidad microbiológica del aire en un Centro Comunitario de Salud Familiar de Talcahuano, Región del Biobío, Chile / Microbiological air quality in a Community Family Health Center of Talcahuano, Biobío Region, Chile

INTRODUCCIÓN: La calidad del aire en centros de salud es fundamental para resguardar la salud de las personas. En Chile, los Centros Comunitarios de Salud Familiar (CECOSF) son lugares de gran concurrencia de personas, favoreciendo la diseminación de microorganismos. OBJETIVO: Evaluar la calidad microbiológica del aire al interior del CECOSF-Centinela en Talcahuano, Región del Biobío. METODOLOGÍA: Se tomó muestras de aire en seis salas del CECOSF, quincenalmente, entre julio de 2018 y junio de 2019, con el equipo MAS-100 NT, empleando agar tripticasa y agar Sabouraud. Diferentes morfotipos de bacterias y hongos fueron identificados mediante RPC. RESULTADOS: Los recuentos de bacterias y hongos variaron entre 9,1 × 101 - 2,4 × 103 ufc/m3 y 10 - 1,5 × 102 ufc/m3, respectivamente. El aire de la sala de espera presentó los recuentos más altos, tanto para bacterias como hongos (P < 0,05). Se identificó Staphylococcus, Enterococcus, Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter, destacando las especies Staphylococcus aureus y Pseudomonas oryzihabitans, microrganismo este último, descrito actualmente como patógeno nosocomial. Entre los hongos se identificó Aspergillus, Meyerozyma y Rhodotorula. CONCLUSIÓN: Las muestras de aire del CECOSF-Centinela presentan microrganismos de importancia en salud humana. De ahí la necesidad de formular programas de monitoreo más regulares para controlar la calidad del aire al interior de estos establecimientos.

BACKGROUND: Indoor air quality in health centers is essential to protect the health of people. In Chile, the Community Family Health Centers (CECOSF) are places with large attendance of people, favoring the dissemination of microorganisms, and there are no reports of the microbial air loading these health centers. AIM: To evaluate the microbiological indoor air quality in CECOSF-Centinela in Talcahuano, Biobío Region. METHODS: Air samples were taken in 6 rooms of the CECOSF, every 15 days between July 2018 and June 2019, with the MAS-100 NT equipment using trypticase and Sabouraud agars. Different morphotypes of bacteria and fungi were identified by PCR. Results: The bacterial and fungal counts varied between 9.1 × 101 - 2.4 × 103 cfu/m3 and 10 - 1.5 × 102 cfu/m3, respectively. The air in the waiting room presented the highest counts, both for bacteria and fungi (P < 0.05). Staphylococcus, Enterococcus, Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter were identified, highlighting the species Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas oryzihabitans, the latter described as a nosocomial pathogen. Among the fungi, Aspergillus, Meyerozyma and Rhodotorula were identified. CONCLUSION: The indoor air of the CECOSF-Centinela presents microorganisms of importance in human health. Therefore, it is necessary to formulate more regular monitoring programs for the control of air quality inside these health centers.

Universal masking during covid-19 pandemic - current evidence and controversies

ABSTRACT The emergence of coronavirus disease 19 pandemic and novel research on the high transmissibility of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has raised controversies over the use of face masks to prevent community transmission. Specific regulations need to be fulfilled to use a face mask as part of the personal protective equipment and high quality of evidence supporting its use to prevent respiratory viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2, is lacking. However, its widespread use is becoming a standard practice in some countries and discrepancies between health authorities on their policy have led to controversy. The aim of this review is to provide an outlook on recent research in this matter and areas of opportunity.

Immunocompromised patients and coronavirus disease 2019: a review and recommendations for dental health care

Abstract In less than four months, an unprecedented pandemic changed the world scenario, closing institutions and commerce, paralyzing sports championships, blocking frontiers, and putting almost all populations in a house quarantine regimen. Immunocompromised patients are within the high-risk group to severe outcomes from COVID-19. However, there is no clear evidence of the association between impaired immune host status and complications from SARS-CoV-2 infection so far. The virus is transmitted by inhalation or direct contact with infected secretions, and therefore the dental office is a highly susceptible environment for such transmission. Here, we review the literature and discuss immunological COVID-19 related issues. We also make suggestions for immunocompromised patients' support in this new emerging context of clinical dental practice. Until comprehensive findings are published, individuals with impaired immunity should be considered as high-risk. Cross infection control procedures for the clinical care of immunocompromised patients should follow the same guidelines that are being proposed for immunocompetent ones. However, during the active outbreak, people under immunosuppressive conditions should not receive elective procedures, even if they do not have symptoms or exposure history to COVID-19, and in case of emergence, care must be done in a separate airborne room. In the pos-pandemic phase, the dental care general recommendations should be the same for all subjects. Changes in the current guidelines have been proposed to SARS-CoV-2 infection control in order to provide the best and safe dental practice. However, they still need to be validated by future studies.

Distribution of Microbiota in Fine Particulate Matter Particles in Guangzhou, China / 生物医学与环境科学（英文）

Objective@#High PM concentration is the main feature of increasing haze in developing states, but information on its microbial composition remains very limited. This study aimed to determine the composition of microbiota in PM in Guangzhou, a city located in the tropics in China.@*Methods@#In Guangzhou, from March 5 to 10 , 2016, PM was collected in middle volume air samplers for 23 h daily. The 16S rDNA V4 region of the PM sample extracted DNA was investigated using high-throughput sequence.@*Results@#Among the Guangzhou samples, , , , , and were the dominant microbiota accounting for more than 90% of the total microbiota, and was the dominant gram-negative bacteria, accounting for 21.30%-23.57%. We examined the difference in bacterial distribution of PM between Beijing and Guangzhou at the genus level; was found in both studies, but was only detected in Guangzhou.@*Conclusion@#In conclusion, the diversity and specificity of microbial components in Guangzhou PM were studied, which may provide a basis for future pathogenicity research in the tropics.

Qualidade microbiológica do ar de um laticínio situado na bacia leiteira do sertão alagoano / Microbiological quality of the air of a dairy industry located in the sertão alagoano dairy basin

O trabalho foi realizado em um laticínio situado na bacia leiteira do sertão alagoano. As condições higiênicas-sanitárias do ar foram avaliadas pela técnica de sedimentação simples. Para tanto, placas de Petri contendo meio de cultura apropriado foram expostas ao ar por 15 minutos. Após incubação em condições adequadas, foram realizadas as contagens das unidades formadoras de colônias (UFC). Os resultados foram expressos em log UFC/cm2/semana. Foi observado que as contagens de mesófilos aeróbios e/ou de fungos filamentosos e leveduras no ar foram insatisfatórias em todos os ambientes avaliados, com exceção da câmara fria a - 12ºC que apresentou condições higiênicas satisfatórias.

Parte II. Variables del ambiente hospitalario que inciden en el riesgo de infecciones de pacientes con cáncer y receptores de trasplante de precursores hematopoyéticos: Diseño, procesos asistenciales, calidad microbiológica del aire y agua / Hospital environment variables that affect the risk of infections of cancer patients and recipients of hematopoietic precursor transplants: Design, care processes, microbiological quality of air and water

Resumen El ambiente hospitalario es una fuente potencial de exposición a patógenos como bacterias, hongos y parásitos, que pueden provocar infecciones en pacientes con cáncer incluyendo receptores de trasplante de precursores hematopoyéticos. Para aminorar este riesgo, se deben tener en cuenta los elementos de diseño, construcción y emplazamiento del área de atención de pacientes. Se entregan recomendaciones para proveer ambientes seguros, incluyendo características y uso de ambiente protegido, la definición de procesos críticos, equipos clínicos destinados a la atención de pacientes, sugerencias de ámbitos a supervisar y aspectos relativos a la calidad microbiológica del aire y agua.

The hospital environment is a potential source of exposure to pathogens such as bacteria, fungi and parasites that can cause infections in patients with cancer including transplanted hematopoietic precursors. To mitigate this risk, the design, construction and location elements of the patient care area must be taken into account. Recommendations are given to provide safe environments, including aspects related to characteristics and use of a protected environment, the definition of critical processes, clinical teams dedicated to the care of patients, suggestions of areas to be monitored, the microbiological quality of air and water.

Anti-Candida and anti-quorum sensing activity of airborne microorganisms detected by a rapid method

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Introducing new antibiotics to the clinic is critical. METHODS: We adapted a plate method described by Kawaguchi and coworkers in 20131 for detecting inhibitory airborne microorganisms. RESULTS: We obtained 51 microbial colonies antagonist to Chromobacterium violaceum, purified and retested them, and of these, 39 (76.5%) were confirmed. They comprised 24 bacteria, 13 fungi, and 2 yeasts. Among the fungi, eight (61.5%) produced active extracts. Among the bacterial, yeast, and fungal strains, 17 (44.7%) and 12 (31.6%) were active against Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The proposed screening method is a rapid strategy for discovering potential antibiotic producers.

Airborne fungi in an intensive care unit / Fungos anemófilos em uma unidade de terapia intensiva

Abstract The presence of airborne fungi in Intensive Care Unit (ICUs) is associated with increased nosocomial infections. The aim of this study was the isolation and identification of airborne fungi presented in an ICU from the University Hospital of Pelotas - RS, with the attempt to know the place's environmental microbiota. 40 Petri plates with Sabouraud Dextrose Agar were exposed to an environment of an ICU, where samples were collected in strategic places during morning and afternoon periods for ten days. Seven fungi genera were identified: Penicillium spp. (15.18%), genus with the higher frequency, followed by Aspergillus spp., Cladosporium spp., Fusarium spp., Paecelomyces spp., Curvularia spp., Alternaria spp., Zygomycetes and sterile mycelium. The most predominant fungi genus were Aspergillus spp. (13.92%) in the morning and Cladosporium spp. (13.92%) in the afternoon. Due to their involvement in different diseases, the identified fungi genera can be classified as potential pathogens of inpatients. These results reinforce the need of monitoring the environmental microorganisms with high frequency and efficiently in health institutions.

Resumo A presença de fungos anemófilos nas UTIs está associada com o aumento de infecções nosocomiais. O objetivo deste estudo foi isolar e identificar quais os principais fungos anemófilos presentes em uma Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI) de um Hospital Universitário de Pelotas - RS, na tentativa de conhecer a microbiota ambiental do local. Através de 40 placas de Petri com Agar Sabouraud dextrose expostas no ambiente de UTI foram coletadas amostras por exposição em locais estratégicos durante períodos da manhã e tarde por dez dias. Sete gêneros fúngicos foram identificados: Penicillium spp. (15,18%), o gênero de maior frequência, seguido de Aspergillus spp., Cladosporium spp., Fusarium spp., Paecelomyces spp., Curvularia spp., Alternaria spp., além de Zigomicetos e micélios estéreis. Houve predomínio de Aspergillus spp. (13,92%) pela manhã e Cladosporium spp. (13,92%) a tarde. Por estarem envolvidos em diferentes enfermidades, os gêneros identificados podem ser classificados como patógenos em potencial aos pacientes internados. Estes resultados reforçam a necessidade de um monitoramento dos micro-organismos ambientais com maior freqüência e eficiência nas instituições de saúde.

Notas micológicas XII: Stenocephalopsis subalutacea un discutido hongo hifomicetoso desde el aire de un museo de historia natural (Valparaíso, Chile) / Mycological notes XII: Stenocephalopsis subalutacea a discussed hiphomycete fungus from the air of a natural history museum (Valparaíso, Chile)

En esta nota micológica, se comentan los aspectos taxonómicos, ecológicos y fisiológicos de la especie fúngica Stenocephalopsis subalutacea, la cual fue aislada desde el aire del museo de historia natural de Valparaíso, Chile. Se confirma su identificación mediante observación de las características morfológicas.

In this mycological note, we discuss taxonomical, ecological and physiological aspects of Stenocephalopsis subalutacea fungus. This species was isolated from the air of the Natural History Museum of Valparaíso, Chile. We confirms its identification through morphology characteristic observation.

Antimicrobial and enzymatic activity of anemophilous fungi of a public university in Brazil

ABSTRACT To the fungal microbiota the UFPE and biotechnological potential enzymatic and antimicrobial production. Air conditioned environments were sampled using a passive sedimentation technique, the air I ratio and the presence of aflatoxigenic strains evaluated for ANVISA. Icelles were to determine the enzymatic activity of lipase, amylase and protease metabolic liquids to determine antimicrobial activity. Diversity was observed in all CAV environments, CFU/m3 ranged from 14 to 290 and I/E ratio from 0.1 to 1.5. The of the fungal genera were: Aspergillus (50%), Penicillium (21%), Talaromyces (14%), Curvularia and Paecilomyces (7% each). Aspergillus sydowii (Bainier & Sartory) Thom & Church presented enzymatic activity and the Talaromyces purpureogenus Samson, Yilmaz, Houbraken, Spierenb., Seifert, Peterson, Varga & Frisvad presented antibacterial activity against all bacteria that all environments present fungal species biodiversity no toxigenic or pathogenic fungi were found, according to ANVISA legislation for conditioned environments and airborne filamentous fungi present potential for enzymatic and antimicrobial activity.

Blood gas analyzer utility in evaluating oxygen kinetics of the aqueous humor / Utilidade de um analisador sanguíneo de gás para a avaliação cinética do oxigênio no humor aquoso

Purpose: To measure the partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) and carbon dioxide (PCO2) and the pH of aqueous humor (AH) and arterial blood samples from rabbits using a blood gas analyzer. Methods: Twenty New Zealand rabbits were anesthetized intramuscularly with ketamine and xylazine and were then allowed to breathe room air. Using a gas blood analyzer, arterial blood and AH samples were analyzed for PO2, PCO2, and pH. Results: The mean arterial blood pressure was 87.14 ± 15.0 mmHg. The mean blood and AH PO2 were 95.18 ± 11.76 mmHg and 88.83 ± 9.92 mmHg, the mean blood and AH PCO2 were 25.86 ± 5.46 mmHg and 29.50 ± 5.36 mmHg, and the mean blood and AH pH were 7.38 ± 0.06 and 7.33 ± 0.09, respectively. Conclusion: Conclusions: The blood gas analyzer was easily employed to evaluate the aqueous humor in rabbits. When comparing the results of studies evaluating aqueous PO2, care should be taken to determine the methods used in these studies. .

Objetivo: Medir a pressão parcial de oxigênio (PO2) e dióxido de carbono (PCO2), e o pH de humor aquoso (AH) e de amostras de sangue arterial de coelhos. Método: Vinte coelhos New Zealand foram anestesiados por via intramuscular com cetamina e xilazina, em seguida, foram liberados a respirar o ar ambiente. Utilizando um analisador sanguíneo de gás, amostras de sangue arterial e AH foram analisadas para PO2, PCO2, e pH. Resultados: A pressão arterial média foi de 87,14 ± 15,0 mmHg. A PO2 média do sangue e AH foi 95,18 ± 11,76 mmHg e 88,83 ± 9,92 mmHg; a PCO2 média do sangue e AH foi de 25,86 ± 5,46 mmHg e 29,50 ± 5,36 mmHg; o pH médio do sangue e AH foi 7,38 ± 0,06 e 7,33 ± 0,09, respectivamente. Conclusões: O analisador de gases no sangue foi facilmente empregadas para avaliar o humor aquoso em coelhos. Quando se comparam os resultados de estudos que avaliaram PO2 do humor aquoso, deve ser tomado cuidado para determinar os métodos utilizados nestes estudos. .

Molecular investigation of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from the patients, personnel, air and environment of an ICU in a hospital in Tehran

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus isolates from the patients, staff, air and environments of an ICU in a hospital in Tehran. During this study, 37 S. aureus isolates were collected and analyzed via the spa typing method. Of the 37 S. aureus isolates, 35 [94%] were methicillin resistant [MRSA], 28 [76%] were identified as SCCmec types III or IIIA, four [10%] were identified as SCCmec types I or IA and three [8%] were identified a SCCmec type IV. All of the MRSA isolates were resistant to oxacillin and contained mecA. The isolates were all spa typed and found to comprise 11 spa types, including t7688, t7689, and t7789, which have not previously been reported. The spa type t7688 was isolated from the hands of two ICU personnel. The spa type t7689 was observed among five isolates from the air and the environment. The spa type t7789 was observed among three isolates from the patients, ventilators and the air. The majority of the isolates [43%] belonged to spa types t030 and t037. Our results revealed that MRSA strains that were isolated from the air, the environment of the ICU and the patients who were colonized or infected with MRSA often exhibited the same spa and SCCmec types. These results also reveal that the isolates from the patients and environment were usually indistinguishable

Microbial air quality and bacterial surface contamination in ambulances during patient services

We sought to assess microbial air quality and bacterial surface contamination on medical instruments and the surrounding areas among 30 ambulance runs during service. We performed a cross-sectional study of 106 air samples collected from 30 ambulances before patient services and 212 air samples collected during patient services to assess the bacterial and fungal counts at the two time points. Additionally, 226 surface swab samples were collected from medical instrument surfaces and the surrounding areas before and after ambulance runs. Groups or genus of isolated bacteria and fungi were preliminarily identified by Gram's stain and lactophenol cotton blue. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, and Pearson's correlation coefficient with a p-value of less than 0.050 considered significant. The mean and standard deviation of bacterial and fungal counts at the start of ambulance runs were 318 +/- 485 cfu/m[3] and 522 +/- 581 cfu/m[3], respectively. Bacterial counts during patient services were 468 +/- 607 cfu/m[3] and fungal counts were 656 +/- 612 cfu/m3. Mean bacterial and fungal counts during patient services were significantly higher than those at the start of ambulance runs, p=0.005 and p=0.030, respectively. For surface contamination, the overall bacterial counts before and after patient services were 0.8 +/- 0.7 cfu/cm[2] and 1.3 +/- 1.1 cfu/cm[2], respectively [p<0.001]. The predominant isolated bacteria and fungi were Staphylococcus spp. and Aspergillus spp., respectively. Additionally, there was a significantly positive correlation between bacterial [r=0.3, p<0.010] and fungal counts [r=0.2, p=0.020] in air samples and bacterial counts on medical instruments and allocated areas. This study revealed high microbial contamination [bacterial and fungal] in ambulance air during services and higher bacterial contamination on medical instrument surfaces and allocated areas after ambulance services compared to the start of ambulance runs. Additionally, bacterial and fungal counts in ambulance air showed a significantly positive correlation with the bacterial surface contamination on medical instruments and allocated areas. Further studies should be conducted to determine the optimal intervention to reduce microbial contamination in the ambulance environment

Aeromicología y salud humana / Aeromycology and human health

Introducción: la aeromicología estudia la variación temporal y espacial del contenido fúngico de la atmósfera, así como la influencia de los factores meteorológicos sobre dichas variaciones. En países tropicales como Cuba, la elevada temperatura y la humedad relativa favorecen el crecimiento de los hongos, así como la formación y liberación de sus esporas, las cuales pueden afectar la salud humana. Objetivo: destacar el impacto de los estudios aeromicológicos para la salud humana. Métodos: se realizó una revisión de la literatura científica sobre aspectos generales de la aeromicología, las principales especies fúngicas presentes en ambientes exteriores e interiores, su impacto en la salud humana y las medidas para disminuir el riesgo de afectación a la salud por dichos hongos. Resultados: se expone información actualizada y valiosa sobre la aeromicología, útil para la prevención de enfermedades ocasionadas por hongos presentes en el aire. Además se destacan los estudios realizados en Cuba hasta la actualidad. Conclusiones: la determinación ambiental de propágulos fúngicos así como sus variaciones estacionales es un parámetro relevante a evaluar dentro de la salud preventiva(AU)

Introduction: aeromycology studies the time and space variation of the air fungal content, as well as the influence of weather factors on these variations. In tropical countries like Cuba, high temperatures and relative humidity favor fungal growth and the formation and release of its spores, which can have an impact on human health. Objective: to highlight the impact of Aeromycology in the human health. Methods: Scientific literature addressing the general aspects of aeromycology, the main indoor and outdoor fungal species, their impact on human health and the actions aimed at decreasing the risk for human health was reviewed. Results: updated and valuable information on aeromycology was presented which can be used to prevent diseases caused by airborne fungi. Additionally, this review highlighted the studies conducted in Cuba up to the present. Conclusions: the environmental determination of fungal propagules and their seasonal variations is a relevant parameter to be evaluated in preventive health care systems(AU)

Effect of 0.12% chlorhexidine in reducing microorganisms found in aerosol used for dental prophylaxis of patients submitted to fixed orthodontic treatment

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed at assessing, in vivo, whether the prior use of 0.12% chlorhexidine as mouthwash would decrease air contamination caused by aerosolized sodium bicarbonate during dental prophylaxis. The study was conducted with 23 patients aged between 10 and 40 years old who were randomly selected and undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. METHODS: The study was divided into two phases (T1 and T2) with a 30-day interval in between. In both phases, dental prophylaxis was performed with aerosolized sodium bicarbonate jetted to the upper and lower arches for 4 minutes. In T1, 10 minutes before the prophylaxis procedure, the participants used distilled water as mouthwash for one minute; whereas in T2, mouthwash was performed with 0.12% chlorhexidine. Microbial samples were collected in BHI agar plates for microbiological analysis. Two dishes were positioned on the clinician (10 cm from the mouth) and a third one at 15 cm from the patient's mouth. The samples were incubated for 48 hours at 37°C. Results were expressed in colony-forming units (CFU). RESULTS: Statistical analysis carried out by means of Student's t test, as well as Wilconxon and Kruskal-Wallis tests revealed that the prior use of 0.12% chlorhexidine as mouthwash significantly reduced CFU in the three positions studied (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The prior use of 0.12% chlorhexidine as mouthwash significantly reduced contamination caused by aerosolized sodium bicarbonate during dental prophylaxis in the orthodontic clinic. .

OBJETIVO: avaliar, in vivo, se a utilização prévia do bochecho com clorexidina a 0,12% diminui a contaminação do ar gerada pelo jato de bicarbonato de sódio durante a profilaxia dentária. O estudo foi realizado com 23 pacientes, na faixa etária entre 10 e 40 anos, escolhidos aleatoriamente, que faziam uso de aparelho ortodôntico fixo. MÉTODOS: o estudo foi dividido em duas fases (T1 e T2), com intervalo de 30 dias entre elas. Em ambas, foi realizada profilaxia dentária com jato de bicarbonato de sódio na arcada superior e inferior, durante quatro minutos. Em T1, 10 minutos antes do procedimento, os participantes realizaram bochecho com água destilada durante um minuto, e, em T2, o bochecho foi realizado com clorexidina a 0,12%. Amostras dos microrganismos foram coletadas em placas de ágar BHI para análise microbiológica, sendo duas placas posicionadas no profissional (a 10cm da boca) e uma terceira a 15cm da boca do paciente. Após a coleta, as placas foram incubadas por 48 horas a 37°C. O resultado foi expresso em número de unidades formadoras de colônias (UFC). RESULTADOS: após análise estatística utilizando teste t de Student, teste de Wilconxon e teste de Kruskal-Wallis, observou-se que o bochecho prévio com clorexidina a 0,12% reduziu significativamente a média de UFC nas três posições estudadas (p < 0,001). CONCLUSÃO: os resultados permitem concluir que o bochecho prévio com clorexidina a 0,12% proporcionou uma redução estatisticamente significativa na contaminação gerada por meio do jato de bicarbonato de sódio durante a profilaxia dentária na clínica ortodôntica. .

Contaminación bacteriana generada por aerosoles en ambiente odontológico / Analysis of bacterial contamination produced by aerosols in dental clinic environments

En odontología estamos expuestos a muchos microorganismos por la producción de aerosoles. Por ello es esencial conocer la naturaleza de éstos y su potencial patogénico. El objetivo de esta investigación es determinar contaminación bacteriana, generada por aerosoles durante procedimientos odontológicos, con uso de pieza de mano de alta velocidad, realizados por alumnos de la carrera, en Clínica Odontológica Docente Asistencial (CODA), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile. Estudio con muestra aleatoria, de 16 de un total de 32 unidades dentales, estratificado por box, con 40 muestras, ocho placas control y 32 placas prueba. El medio de cultivo, se mantuvo por diez minutos, donde se realizaron acciones de operatoria con turbina, bajo aislamiento absoluto, ubicadas en frente del operador y pechera del paciente. Las muestras fueron analizadas microscópicamente, incubadas a 37°C en atmósfera de oxígeno por 24 horas y dióxido de carbono a las 48 horas. Treinta y dos placas prueba fueron positivas, registrándose diversidad de crecimiento bacteriano, promedio 58,874 Unidad Formadora de Colonias (UFC) por unidad dental. El mayor porcentaje de microorganismos fueron: Bacillus spp. (28,56%) y Bacilos Gram positivos (24,31%). Siete placas control resultaron negativas y una con 3 UFC de Micrococcus spp. La mayoría de los microorganismos encontrados son comensales potencialmente patógenos. Al comprobar que los aerosoles constituyen una fuente importante de emisión de microorganismos, se hace imprescindible cumplir con todas las normas de bioseguridad que protegen tanto al operador como al paciente

In dental practice we are exposed to many microorganisms due to aerosol production. It is essential to be aware of the nature of these elements and their pathogenic potential. The purpose of this research is to determine the presence of bacterial contamination in aerosols produced during dental procedures that require the use of a high speed dental handpiece. These dental procedures were carried out by dentistry students at the dental clinic of the Universidad de La Frontera. In order to determine the presence of bacteria in aerosols, cultivation plates were used. A total of 40 samples were taken from 16 dentistry students while performing dental procedures that required the use of a high speed dental handpiece in conditions of complete isolation. Eight control plates and 32 test plates were used. Two selected areas were examined: operator´s front andpatient´s chest protector, during 10 minutes. The samples were then taken to the laboratory and incubated in an oxygen atmosphere for 24 hours and subsequently in carbon dioxide for another 24 hours at a temperature of 37 degrees Celsius. Finally the samples were microscopically analyzed. Seven control plates showed no bacterial contaminants and one showed 3UFC of Micrococcus spp. The 32 test plates were found to be positive showing diverse bacterial growth (58.874 UFC average per subject). The highest percentage of microorganisms was constituted by Bacillus spp. (28.56 %) and Bacillus Grampositivos (24.31 %), representing more than 50% of the total. The majority of the microorganisms found belong to the commensal family, although they can change into opportunistic pathogen microorganisms. Verifying that aerosols are an important source of emission of microorganisms, it is essential to comply with all biosecurity standards in order to protect the operator as well as the patient