Facilitating the gut brain axis by probiotic bacteria to modulate neuroimmune response on lead exposed zebra fish models

Unravelling the efficacy of gut biome has a major impact on health. An unbalanced microbiome composition is linked to many common illnesses such as gut dysbiosis, mental deformities and immunological imbalance. An optimistic influence on the gut biome can be made by consumingprobiotics. This would stimulate neuroprotection and immunomodulation intended by heavy metals pollution. Lead is a major source of neurotoxin that can induce neural deformities. Lactobacillusspecies isolated from curd were characterized to confirm its specificity. Zebra fish was reared at standard conditions and preclinical assessment on the intensity of induced neurotoxin lead was performed. The embryo toxic assay, immunomodulation effects and animal behavioural models endorsed the consequence of neurotoxicity. Different concentrations of bacterial isolate with standard antidepressant was considered for analysing the vigour of toxicity and its influence on cognitive behaviour by novel tank diving method. The restrain in the animal behaviour was also conferred by all the test samples with a decreased bottom dwelling time which was authenticated with haematology and histopathological studies. The alterations in morphology of the lymphocytes were balanced by the treated test samples. This study paves a twofold potential of probiotic as neuroprotectant and immune modulator against heavy metal toxicity.

Molecular identification of microbial contaminations in the fitness center in Makkah region

As the condition increases and seeks to remain healthy, the number of people who plan to join a fitness center or "gym" has increased markedly. From where this individual does understand, the study of the variety of bacteria showing the stolen has led him to care for people, with a popular fitness center located in the province of Makka, Saudi Arabia. Different bacteria must be eliminated from other gyms in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, in a total of three areas 46 two sports equipment. Both types and characteristics of bacteria, while some have been tested in hemolytic surgery for antibiotic resistance. Corynebacterium antibiotics in different forms did not react the same; however, isolates tested for M17 and N12 showed the greatest resistance to antibiotics. Furthermore, sixteen bacterial strains of human blood ß-agar displayed high hemolytic activity. In the gym isolates 2 (9 strains) followed in gym 1 (7 modes), B row hemolytic activity was highest. It is important to note that gram-positive bacteria were positive in all kinds of ways, and catalase was positive. Six strains belonging to the genus Bacillus, Brachybacterium, Geobacillus, Microbacterium, Micrococcus, and Staphylococcus and other pathogenic bacteria were known as possible individuals to use the morphological, biochemical, and rRNA gene of the 16S series. In general, this research illustrates the health and fitness centers in the individual being studied and the risks that are considered necessary to periodically study possible microbial contamination in the mixture in the gym to ensure people's protection.

Inativação fotodinâmica de bactérias patogênicas de interesse alimentar utilizando o fotossensibilizador protoporfirina IX / Photodynamic inactivation of pathogenic bacteria of food interest using the photosensibilizer protoporfirin IX

Salmonella enterica é um importante patógeno na indústria de alimentos, relacionado com gastroenterites alimentares. Staphylococcus aureus é causador de infecção intestinal. Neste cenário, a inativação fotodinâmica (IFD) surge como uma alternativa de desinfecção desses patógenos. A IFD consiste na interação de três elementos: um agente fotossensibilizador (FS) , luz e oxigênio molecular. Esta interação promove espécies reativas de oxigênio, causando danos irreparáveis à célula . Estes microrganismos possuem morfologia celular diversa, portanto uma concentração ideal de FS para cada cepa se faz necessária para o sucesso da técnica. O comprimento de onda absorvido pelo FS Protoporfirina IX corresponde ao vermelho do espectro eletromagnético (630 nm). Concentrações de 10 e 20 μM do pró-fármaco ácido aminolevulínico (ALA), observou-se a inativação de S. aureus em 20 μM, S. enterica manteve-se em crescimento. A IFD mostrou-se como uma promissora técnica para controle microbiano.

Isolamento e classificação de micro-organismos psicrotróficos proteolíticos presentes em queijo Minas Frescal / Isolation and classification of psychrotrophic and proteolytic microorganisms in “Minas Frescal” cheese

Algumas condições da qualidade de leite e derivados estão conexas à microbiota contaminante deterioradora que é, sobretudo, representada por bactérias psicrotróficas proteolíticas. Portanto, o objetivo desse trabalho foi isolar micro-organismos psicrotróficos proteolíticos de queijo Minas Frescal comercializados em Salinas -MG. Para tanto foi realizado o isolamento de micro-organismos psicrotróficos proteolíticos presentes em queijos Minas Frescal. Logo após, foi realizada a caracterização dos isolados quanto à coloração de Gram, forma e atividade de oxidase. Os resultados obtidos evidenciaram a predominância de micro-organismos psicrotróficos Gram-positivos na microbiota dos queijos comercializados em Salinas-MG.

Conocimiento acerca de los patógenos virales y bacterianos presentes en mamíferos silvestres en Chile: una revisión sistemática / Knowledge about viral and bacterial pathogens present in wild mammals in Chile: a systematic review

Resumen Este estudio organiza toda la información disponible acerca de los patógenos virales y bacterianos de mamíferos silvestres en Chile. Esto fue realizado con el objetivo de identificar patógenos que han sido bien documentados y reconocer aquellos que no han sido apropiadamente estudiados, determinar el número de artículos que han sido publicados anualmente acerca de este tópico e identificar las regiones en Chile que han concentrado el mayor y menor número de estudios relacionados con patógenos virales y bacterianos. Para lograr esto, se seleccionó para revisión un total de 67 artículos científicos publicados en revistas evaluadas por pares desde 1951 al 2018. Los resultados indican que el número de publicaciones ha incrementado por década y hay años en los cuales no se publicaron artículos. La mayoría de los estudios se relacionan con Leptospira, rabia, hantavirus, Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis (MAP) y distémper. Rodentia, Carnivora, Chiroptera y Cetartiodactyla fueron los órdenes de mamíferos más estudiados. Información acerca de la presencia/ausencia de patógenos fue encontrada en 44 especies de mamíferos silvestres. La mayor parte de las investigaciones buscaron patógenos en Chile sur y central y los métodos de diagnóstico más empleados para el diagnóstico de patógenos fueron serología y técnicas moleculares. En general, la investigación en mamíferos silvestres ha sido dirigida a la evaluación de enfermedades zoonóticas, mientras que aquellas enfermedades transmitidas por vectores y enfermedades no zoonóticas han sido mayormente ignoradas por la comunidad científica.

This study organizes all available information about viral and bacterial pathogens of wild mammals in Chile. This was done in order to identify pathogens that have been well-documented and recognize those that have not been properly studied, determine the number of articles that have been published annually about this topic and identify regions in Chile that concentrate the highest and lowest number of studies concerning viral and bacterial pathogens. A total of 67 scientific articles published in peer-reviewed journals from 1951 to 2018 were selected for revision. Results indicate that the number of publications has increased per decade but there are years in which no articles were published. Most studies addressed Leptospira, rabies, hantavirus, Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis (MAP) and distemper. Rodentia, Carnivora, Chiroptera and Cetartiodactyla were the most studied mammal orders. Information about presence/absence of pathogens was found for 44 wild mammal species. Research was mainly carried out in central and southern Chile and the most commonly employed methods for pathogen diagnosis were serology and molecular techniques. Overall, research in Chilean wild mammals has been directed towards the evaluation of zoonotic diseases, while vector-borne and non-zoonotic diseases have been mostly neglected by the scientific community.

Transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-ß1) levels in a rat model of induced pleural empyema

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the concentration of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB1) levels in a rat pleural effusion obtained by inoculation of intrapleural bacteria or turpentine through thoracentesis. Methods: Thirty-Nine Wistar rats were divided into three groups: Staphylococcus aureus (SA, n = 17); Streptococcus pneumoniae (SP, n = 12); and turpentine (control, n = 10). Pleural fluid was collected through ultrasound-guided thoracentesis 12 h, 24 h, and 36 h after instillation of bacteria or turpentine. Levels of TGFB1 were measured in pleural fluid. Results: At 12 h, mean TGFB1concentrations were 5.3450 pg/mL in the SA group, 5.3449 pg/mL in the SP group, and 5.3450 pg/mL in controls. At 24 h, they were 4.6700 pg/mL in the SA group, 4.6700 pg/mL in the SP group, and 4.6700 pg/mL in controls. At 36 h, they were 4.6699 pg/mL in the SA group and in control. No difference was observed among the groups in mean TGFB1concentration (p = 0.12); however, a significant intragroup reduction in mean TGFB1 was observed between 12 and 24 h (p < 0.01). Conclusion: The transforming growth factor beta 1 concentrations were not useful as a diagnostic tool or an early marker of infected pleural effusion.

Bacterias: ¿Por qué me enferman? / Bacteria: Why do they make me sick?

Bacterias, ¿Por qué me enferman? Es un libro que pretende acercarnos al diminuto e invisible mundo de los microorganismos con los que convivimos día a día y con quienes interactuamos constantemente, muchas veces sin darnos cuenta. Este texto entrega material exploratorio y de divulgación científica para lectores curiosos de todas las edades, con énfasis en estudiantes y profesores, que pueden encontrar en Bacterias. ¿Por qué me enferman? una herramienta educativa útil, didáctica y visualmente atractiva

El hallazgo de bacterias patógenas en ríos urbanos y su relación con el cambio climático / Pathogenic bacteria found in urban rivers and its relation to climate change

Se analiza la importancia de las bacterias acuáticas y su relación con el ambiente humano. Se definen y caracterizan los ríos urbanos, las modificaciones en su calidad y los hallazgos de patógenos transportados por estos cursos. Se discute la evolución y adaptación de los microorganismos al ambiente acuático, con énfasis en el caso particular de los ríos del conurbano bonaerense. Se presenta y discute la posible relación entre el cambio climático y algunos hallazgos recientes de patógenos en estos ríos urbanos

Water microorganisms importance and its relation with human environment are analyzed. So are defined and characterized urban rivers, qualities alterations and finding of pathogens transported by them. Evolution and adaptation of microorganisms are discussed emphasizing its importance in Buenos Aires suburban rivers. Recent pathogen changes detected in this courses and its relationship with climate changes are discussed

Analisa-se a importância das bactérias aquáticas e sua relação com o ambiente humano e os achados de patogênicos transportados por estes cursos. Discute-se a evolução e adaptação dos microorganismos ao ambiente aquático, com ênfase no caso peculiar dos rios do Conurbano Bonaerense. Apresenta-se e discute-se a possível relação entre a mudança climática e alguns achados de patogênicos nestes rios urbanos

Sexo Masculino e Hipertensão Arterial São Preditores de Placa à Angiotomografia das Coronárias / Male Gender and Arterial Hypertension are Plaque Predictors at Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography

Background: Systemic Arterial Hypertension (SAH) is one of the main risk factors for Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), in addition to male gender. Differences in coronary artery lesions between hypertensive and normotensive individuals of both genders at the Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA) have not been clearly determined. Objective: To Investigate the calcium score (CS), CAD extent and characteristics of coronary plaques at CCTA in men and women with and without SAH. Methods: Prospective cross-sectional study of 509 patients undergoing CCTA for CAD diagnosis and risk stratification, from November 2011 to December 2012, at Instituto de Cardiologia Dante Pazzanese. Individuals were stratified according to gender and subdivided according to the presence (HT +) or absence (HT-) of SAH. Results: HT+ women were older (62.3 ± 10.2 vs 57.8 ± 12.8, p = 0.01). As for the assessment of CAD extent, the HT+ individuals of both genders had significant CAD, although multivessel disease is more frequent in HT + men. The regression analysis for significant CAD showed that age and male gender were the determinant factors of multivessel disease and CS ≥ 100. Plaque type analysis showed that SAH was a predictive risk factor for partially calcified plaques (OR = 3.9). Conclusion: Hypertensive men had multivessel disease more often than women. Male gender was a determinant factor of significant CAD, multivessel disease, CS ≥ 100 and calcified and partially calcified plaques, whereas SAH was predictive of partially calcified plaques. .

Fundamento: Doença Arterial Coronariana (DAC) tem como um dos principais fatores de risco a Hipertensão Arterial Sistêmica (HAS), além do sexo masculino. As diferenças nas lesões de artérias coronarianas entre hipertensos e normotensos de ambos os sexos pela Angiotomografia Computadorizada Coronariana (ATC) ainda não foram claramente determinadas. Objetivo: Investigar Escore de Cálcio (EC), extensão da DAC e as características de placas coronarianas à ATC em homens e mulheres com e sem HAS. Métodos: Estudo transversal prospectivo com 509 pacientes submetidos a ATC para diagnóstico e estratificação de risco de DAC, de novembro de 2011 a dezembro de 2012, no Instituto Dante Pazzanese de Cardiologia. Foram estratificados segundo o gênero e subdivididos de acordo com a presença (HT+) ou ausência (HT-) de HAS. Resultados: As mulheres HT+ apresentaram maior idade (62,3 ± 10,2 vs 57,8 ± 12,8, p = 0,01). Quanto à avaliação de extensão da DAC, os HT+ de ambos os sexos apresentaram DAC significativa, porém a doença multiarterial é mais frequente nos homens HT+. A análise da regressão para DAC significativa mostrou que idade e sexo masculino foram fatores determinantes de doença multiarterial e EC ≥ 100. Já a análise para os tipos de placas mostrou que a HAS se comportou como fator de risco preditor para placas parcialmente calcificadas (OR = 3,9). Conclusão: Homens hipertensos apresentaram mais frequentemente doença multiarterial. O sexo masculino foi fator determinante de DAC significativa, doença multiarterial, EC ≥ 100 e placas calcificadas e parcialmente calcificadas. Enquanto a HAS foi preditora de placas parcialmente calcificadas. .

4-Second Exercise Test: Reference Values for Ages 18–81 Years / Teste de Exercício de 4 Segundos: Valores de Referência dos 18 aos 81 Anos de Idade

Background: Physiological reflexes modulated primarily by the vagus nerve allow the heart to decelerate and accelerate rapidly after a deep inspiration followed by rapid movement of the limbs. This is the physiological and pharmacologically validated basis for the 4-s exercise test (4sET) used to assess the vagal modulation of cardiac chronotropism. Objective: To present reference data for 4sET in healthy adults. Methods: After applying strict clinical inclusion/exclusion criteria, 1,605 healthy adults (61% men) aged between 18 and 81 years subjected to 4sET were evaluated between 1994 and 2014. Using 4sET, the cardiac vagal index (CVI) was obtained by calculating the ratio between the duration of two RR intervals in the electrocardiogram: 1) after a 4-s rapid and deep breath and immediately before pedaling and 2) at the end of a rapid and resistance-free 4-s pedaling exercise. Results: CVI varied inversely with age (r = -0.33, p < 0.01), and the intercepts and slopes of the linear regressions between CVI and age were similar for men and women (p > 0.05). Considering the heteroscedasticity and the asymmetry of the distribution of the CVI values according to age, we chose to express the reference values in percentiles for eight age groups (years): 18–30, 31–40, 41–45, 46–50, 51–55, 56–60, 61–65, and 66+, obtaining progressively lower median CVI values ranging from 1.63 to 1.24. Conclusion: The availability of CVI percentiles for different age groups should promote the clinical use of 4sET, which is a simple and safe procedure for the evaluation of vagal modulation of cardiac chronotropism. .

Fundamento: Reflexos fisiológicos modulados primariamente pelo vago permitem que a frequência cardíaca diminua e aumente rapidamente, após uma inspiração profunda seguida da movimentação rápida dos membros. Essa é a base fisiológica e farmacologicamente validada do teste de exercício de 4 segundos (T4s) para a avaliação da modulação vagal sobre o cronotropismo cardíaco. Objetivo: Apresentar os dados de referência do T4s em adultos saudáveis. Métodos: Após aplicação de rígidos critérios clínicos de inclusão/exclusão foram estudados 1.605 adultos saudáveis (61% homens), entre 18 e 81 anos de idade, submetidos ao T4s, entre 1994 e 2014. No T4s, o Índice Vagal Cardíaco (IVC) foi obtido pela razão entre as durações de dois intervalos RR no traçado eletrocardiográfico: 1) após 4 segundos de inspiração rápida e profunda e imediatamente antes da pedalada; e 2) ao final da pedalada livre e rápida de 4 segundos. Resultados: IVC varia inversamente com a idade (r = - 0,33; p < 0,01) e os interceptos e as inclinações das regressões lineares entre IVC e idade são similares para homens e mulheres (p > 0,05). Considerando a heterocedasticidade e a assimetria da distribuição de IVC em função da idade, optou-se por expressar os valores de referência em percentis para oito faixas etárias (anos): 18-30, 31-40, 41-45, 46-50, 51-55, 56-60, 61-65 e 66+, obtendo-se medianas de IVC progressivamente menores de 1,63 a 1,24. Conclusão: A disponibilização dos percentis de IVC por diferentes faixas etárias deverá facilitar a maior utilização clínica do T4s, um procedimento simples e seguro, para a avaliação da modulação vagal do cronotropismo cardíaco. .

MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry proteomic based identification of clinical bacterial isolates.

Background & objectives: Pathogenic bacteria often cause life threatening infections especially in immunocompromised individuals. Therefore, rapid and reliable species identification is essential for a successful treatment and disease management. We evaluated a rapid, proteomic based technique for identification of clinical bacterial isolates by protein profiling using matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time - of - flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Methods: Freshly grown bacterial isolates were selected from culture plates. Ethanol/formic acid extraction procedure was carried out, followed by charging of MALDI target plate with the extract and overlaying with α-cyano-4 hydroxy-cinnamic acid matrix solution. Identification was performed using the MALDI BioTyper 1.1, software for microbial identification (Bruker Daltonik GmbH, Bremen, Germany). Results: A comparative analysis of 82 clinical bacterial isolates using MALDI -TOF MS and conventional techniques was carried out. Amongst the clinical isolates, the accuracy at the species level for clinical isolates was 98.78%. One out of 82 isolates was not in accordance with the conventional assays because MALDI-TOF MS established it as Streptococcus pneumoniae and conventional methods as Streptococcus viridans. Interpretation & conclusions: MALDI - TOF MS was found to be an accurate, rapid, cost-effective and robust system for identification of clinical bacterial isolates. This innovative approach holds promise for earlier therapeutic intervention leading to better patient care.

Characterization of the microbial community in a lotic environment to assess the effect of pollution on nitrifying and potentially pathogenic bacteria / Caracterização da comunidade microbiana em um ambiente lótico para acessar o efeito da poluição em bactérias nitrificantes e potencialmente patogênicas

This study aimed to investigate microbes involved in the nitrogen cycle and potentially pathogenic bacteria from urban and rural sites of the São Pedro stream. Water samples were collected from two sites. A seasonal survey of bacterial abundance was conducted. The dissolved nutrient content was analysed. PCR and FISH analysis were performed to identify and quantify microbes involved in the nitrogen cycle and potentially pathogenic bacteria. The seasonal survey revealed that the bacterial abundance was similar along the year on the rural area but varied on the urban site. Higher concentration of dissolved nutrients in the urban area indicated a eutrophic system. Considering the nitrifying microbes, the genus Nitrobacter was found, especially in the urban area, and may act as the principal bacteria in converting nitrite into nitrate at this site. The molecular markers napA, amoA, and nfrA were more accumulated at the urban site, justifying the higher content of nutrients metabolised by these enzymes. Finally, high intensity of amplicons from Enterococcus, Streptococcus, Bacteroides/Prevotella/Porphyromonas, Salmonella, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa and the diarrheagenic lineages of E. coli were observed at the urban site. These results indicate a change in the structure of the microbial community imposed by anthrophic actions. The incidence of pathogenic bacteria in aquatic environments is of particular importance to public health, emphasising the need for sewage treatment to minimise the environmental impacts associated with urbanisation.

Este estudo objetivou investigar os micro-organismos envolvidos no ciclo do nitrogênio e bactérias potencialmente patogênicas das áreas urbanas e rurais do Córrego São Pedro. Amostras de água foram coletadas dos dois locais. Um levantamento sazonal da densidade bacteriana foi realizado. O teor de nutriente dissolvido foi avaliado. As técnicas de PCR e FISH foram realizadas para identificar e quantificar os micro-organismos envolvidos no ciclo do nitrogênio e bactérias potencialmente patogênicas. O levantamento sazonal revelou que a abundância bacteriana foi semelhante ao longo do ano na área rural, porém variou na região urbana. Altas concentrações de nutrientes dissolvidos na área urbana indicaram este como um sistema eutrófico. Considerando os micro-organismos nitrificantes, o gênero Nitrobacter foi encontrado, especialmente na região urbana, e pode estar atuando como a principal bactéria convertendo nitrito em nitrato nessa área. Os marcadores moleculares napA, amoA, e nfrA foram mais acumulados na área urbana, justificando o alto teor dos nutrientes metabolizados por essas enzimas. Finalmente, alta intensidade de amplicons para Enterococcus, Streptococcus, Bacteroides/Prevotella/Porphyromonas, Salmonella, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa e linhagens diarreagênicas de E. coli foram observados na área urbana. Estes resultados indicaram uma mudança na estrutura da comunidade microbiana imposta pelas ações antropogênicas. A incidência de bactérias patogênicas em ambientes aquáticos é de particular importância para a saúde pública, enfatizando a necessidade de tratamentos de esgoto para minimizar os impactos ambientais associados com a urbanização.

Ryegrass and tall fescue responses to inoculation with azospirillum amazonense and Acaulospora scrobiculata / Respostas de azevém e festuca à inoculação com Azaspirillum amazonense e Acaulospora scrobiculata / Respuesta de raigrás y festuca a inoculación con Azaspirillum amazonense y Acaulospora scrobiculata

In the Southern Brazilian Plateau, farmers try to compensate the lack of forage from native grasslands cultivating gramineae such as ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) and tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea). However, soil fertility often limits the productivity of these pastures. In this study, the authors investigated the effects of inoculating diazotrophic bacteria Azospirillum amazonense S22 and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) Acaulospora scrobiculata SCR855 on the growth and nutrient uptake of ryegrass and tall fescue. Both AMF and Azospirilum did not increase the dry weight and the nutrient concentration of ryegrass. However, Azospirillum inoculation promoted the growth of tall fescue. Mycorrhizal colonization was not affected by AMF inoculation, but it was increased by Azospirillum inoculation.

No planalto do sul do Brasil, os produtores tentam compensar a falta de forragem das pastagens nativas cultivando gramíneas, como azevém (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) e festuca (Festuca arundinacea). Entretanto, a fertilidade do solo nessas áreas frequentemente limita a produtividade dessas pastagens. Neste estudo, foram investigados os efeitos da inoculação da bactéria diazotrófica Azospirillum amazonense S22 e do fungo micorrízico arbuscular (FMA) Acaulospora scorbiculata SCR855 no crescimento vegetal e absorção de nutrientes de azevém e festuca. Tanto FMA quanto Azospirillum não incrementaram a massa seca e as concentrações de nutrientes do azevém; porém, a inoculação de Azospirillum promoveu o crescimento da festuca. A colonização radicular micorrízica não foi afetada pela inoculação pelo AMF, mas foi aumentada pela inoculação com Azospirillum.

En el altiplano del sur de Brasil, los productores intentan compensar la falta de forraje en pastajes nativas cultivando gramíneas, como raigrás (Lolium multiflorum Lam) y festuca (Festuca arundinacea). Sin embargo, la fertilidad del suelo en esas áreas a menudo limita la productividad de esas pastajes. En este estudio, se investigó los efectos de la inoculación de la bacteria diazotrófica Azospirillum amazonense S22 y del hongo micorrízico arbuscular (HMA), Acaulospora scorbiculata SCR855 en el crecimiento vegetal y absorción de nutrientes de raigrás y festuca. Tanto HMA como Azospirillum no incrementaron la masa seca y las concentraciones de nutrientes del raigrás; pero, la inoculación de Azospirillum promovió el crecimiento de la festuca. La colonización radicular micorrízica no se vio afectada por la inoculación por HMA, pero aumentó por inoculación con Azospirillum.

Incidencia de histamina y de bacterias indicadoras de calidad higiénica, en filetes, ruedas y trozos de pescado de especies pelágicas comercializadas en un mercado de pescado de la isla de Margarita (Venezuela) / Incidence histamine and hygienic quality indicators´s bacteria in fillets, slice and pieces pelagic fish´s marketing in one fish´s market of Margarita´s Island (Venezuela)

Se estudió la incidencia de histamina y de bacterias indicadoras de manejo higiénico en filetes, ruedas y trozos de diez especies de pescado en estado fresco, (Euthynnus alletteratus; Caranx latus; Ophisthonema oglinum; Alectis crinitus; Sardinella aurita; Thunnus alalunga; Sarda sarda; Scomberomorus cavalla; Coryphaena hippurus y Xyphias gladius), comercializadas en un mercado de pescado de Isla de Margarita (Venezuela). Según normas COVENIN se enumeraron (UFC g-1) aerobios a 25 y 32 °C, coliformes fecales y Escherichia coli (NMP g-1); histamina (mg/100 g) y pH. También recuentos (UFC g-1) de enterobacterias (ICMSF) y bacterias descarboxiladoras de histidina (Niven y otros). Todos los recuentos de aerobios a 25 °C excedieron el valor m (Log10 = 5,70 UFC g-1) fijado por ICMSF (1986). La prueba r de Pearson indicó que los recuentos a 25 y 32 °C estuvieron altamente relacionados (n = 90; r = 0,89; p < 0,01). E. coli superó en el 76% de las muestras el valor m (Log10 = 1,04 NMP g-1). Las mayores cifras de histamina se detectaron en T. alalunga (promedio 43,5 mg/100 g en uno de tres muestreos); seguido por S. aurita (promedios de 23,7 y 28,0 mg/100 g respectivamente, en dos muestreos). Sólo en muestras de T. alalunga se detectaron olores penetrantes y músculos con elasticidad disminuida. Estos datos y la observación de factores adversos, tales como contacto directo con superficies y utensilios sucios, restos de vísceras, desangrado deficiente, presencia de insectos, utilización de agua no potable y la exposición a temperaturas no apropiadas, reflejan que la manipulación del pescado no fue adecuada. Se recomienda que inspectores sanitarios implementen acciones tendentes a corregir estas deficiencias.

The incidence of histamine and of bacteria that indicate hygienic handling of fillets, slices and pieces of ten pelagic fresh fish (Euthynnus alletteratus; Caranx latus; Ophisthonema oglinum; Alectis crinitus; Sardinella aurita; Thunnus alalunga; Sarda sarda; Scomberomorus cavalla; Coryphaena hippurus and Xyphias gladius), sold in a fish market at Margarita Island (Venezuela) was assessed. According to COVENIN´s norms, total aerobic plate count (FCU g-1) at 25 and 32 °C; fecal coliforms and Escherichia coli (MPN g-1); histamine (mg/100 g) and pH were measured. Also, members of the Enterobacteriaceae family (FCU g-1) and histamine producing bacteria were counted, according to ICMSF and Niven et al respectively. All total aerobic plate count at 25 °C surpassed the m number (Log10 = 5.70 CFU g-1) established by ICMSF (1986). The Pearson test (r) showed that bacteria total counts at 25 and 32 °C were highly related (n = 90; r = 0.89; p < 0.01). E. coli exceeded in 76% of samples the number (Log10 = 1.04 MPN g-1). Histamine biggest numbers were detected in T. alalunga (average 43.5 mg/100 g in one of three samplings), followed by S. aurita (averages of 23.7 and 28.0 mg/100 g respectively, in two samplings). Only in T. alalunga samples were penetrating odors detected and muscles with reduced elasticity. This data and the adverse factors observed, such as: fish in direct contact with dirty areas and utensils, leftover viscera, faulty bleeding, presence of insects, use of non potable water and the exposition of fish at inappropriate temperatures, revealed the handling of fish was not suitable. It is recommended that sanitary officers carry out actions necessary to correct these deficiencies.

Infecciones de transmisión sexual en semen: el hombre como vector de transmisión / Sexual transmission infections in semen: men as vector transmission

En los últimos años el estudio de las infecciones de transmisión sexual ha cobrado gran importancia debido principalmente al incremento de estas en parejas heterosexuales y hombres que tienen sexo con hombres. En mujeres existe mucha información de epidemiología y patogénesis de estas infecciones, sin embargo, en hombres la información es muy escasa debido a que la mayoría no presenta sintomatología. En los últimos años se ha evidenciado un creciente interés en el estudio del semen como vía de transmisión, debido principalmente a la afinidad de algunos patógenos con los espermatozoides. Dentro de los principales microorganismos infectantes en semen se encuentran Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Mollicutes, Virus de la Inmunodeficiencia Humana tipos 1 y 2, Virus Herpes Simplex 1 y 2, Virus Papiloma Humano, Virus de la Hepatitis B y C, Citomegalovirus, Virus Epstein-Barr y Trichomonas vaginalis.

Sexually transmitted infections study has become an important issue in these days, mainly due to the increment of heterosexual and men have sex with men partners of people. In women, there is a lot information about epidemiology and pathogenesis of these infections. However, the information is very limited in men, because most infected men are asymptomatic. In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in study of semen as a transmission way, due to the affinity of some pathogens to sperm. The most prevalent microorganisms infecting semen are: Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Mollicutes, Human Immunodeficiency Virus Types 1 and 2 Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2, Human Papillomavirus, Hepatitis B and C virus, Cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr and Trichomonas vaginalis.

Pathophysiology of bacterial infection of the central nervous system and its putative role in the pathogenesis of behavioral changes

Invasion of the central nervous system (CNS) by microorganisms is a severe and frequently fatal event during the course of many infectious diseases. It may lead to deafness, blindness, cerebral palsy, hydrocephalus, cognitive impairment or permanent neurological dysfunction in survivors. Pathogens can cross the blood-brain barrier by transcellular migration, paracellular migration and in infected macrophages. Pathogens may breach the blood-brain barrier and be recognized by antigen-presenting cells through the binding of Toll-like receptors. This induces the activation of nuclear factor kappa B or mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways and subsequently induces leukocyte infiltration and proliferation and the expression of numerous proteins involved in inflammation and the immune response. Many brain cells can produce cytokines, chemokines and other pro-inflammatory molecules in response to bacteria stimuli; as a consequence, polymorphonuclear cells are attracted and activated, and release large amounts of superoxide anion and nitric oxide, leading to peroxynitrite formation and oxidative stress. This cascade leads to lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial damage and blood-brain barrier breakdown, contributing to cellular injury during neuronal infection. Current evidence suggests that bacterial CNS infections can play a role in the etiopathogenesis of behavioral disorders by increasing pro-inflammatory cytokines and bacterial virulence factors. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge of the relevant pathophysiologic steps in CNS infections.

Study of bacteria isolated from the foot pad of Spheniscus magellanicus with and without bumblefoot / Estudo de bactérias isoladas de coxins plantares de Spheniscus magellanicus com e sem bumblefoot

The bumblefoot or pododermatitis is among the diseases with the highest morbidity in Magellanic penguins, sometimes evolving to septicemia and death. Therefore, this study aimed to relate the main species involved in the disorder, as well as the in vitro susceptibility profile of the microorganisms against routine antimicrobial usage in Veterinary Medicine. During two years in vivo material was harvested from 200 footpads (n=100 animals) for microbiological analysis and in vitro susceptibility tests against the Antibiotic enrofloxacin, streptomycin, penicillin and cephalosporin. Bacteria have been identified both as part of permanent and transient microbiota, also being associated to 100% of the pododermatitis cases. The most prevalent genus were Staphylococcus and Corynebacterium. The antibiograms of all the isolated bacteria resulted in greater susceptibility of the strains facing cephalosporin, followed by enrofloxacin, streptomycin and penicillin.

O bumblefoot ou pododermatite está entre as afecções de maior morbidade em pinguins-de-magalhães, podendo evoluir para septicemia e óbito. Portanto, o presente estudo objetivou relacionar as principais espécies bacterianas envolvidas na afecção, bem como o perfil de susceptibilidade in vitro destes microrganismos frente a antimicrobianos de uso rotineiro em medicina veterinária. Durante o período de dois anos, foi realizada colheita de material in vivo de 200 coxins plantares (n=100 animais) para análise microbiológica e testes de susceptibilidade in vitro frente aos antibióticos enrofloxacina, estreptomicina, penicilina e cefalosporina. Bactérias foram identificadas tanto como parte da microbiota permanente quanto da transitória, bem como estiveram associadas a 100% dos casos de pododermatite. Os gêneros mais prevalentes foram Staphylococcus e Corynebacterium. Os antibiogramas de todas as bactérias isoladas resultaram em maior sensibilidade das cepas frente à cefalosporina, seguida de enrofloxacina, estreptomicina e penicilina.

Qualidade microbiológica de lanches e salgados / Microbiological quality of finger food and snacks

Although finger food is convenient, it may be easily contaminated from the stage of preparation to themoment of consumption. This study aimed at evaluating the microbiological quality of finger food and sandwiches sold in Botucatu – SP, Brazil, by following the standards established by the Brazilian Health Surveillance Agency, ANVISA. The analysis was conducted according to APHA. A hundred and twenty two samples of meat, chicken, shrimp, cheese, and vegetable finger food and sandwiches were tested fromAugust 2008 to March 2009. Seventeen (13.9 %) samples of meat, cheese, vegetables and chicken were indisagreement with the ANVISA standards — some of them in more than one parameter. High counting of thermotolerant coliforms and coagulase-positive staphylococci were found in ten (8.2 %) and eight(6.5 %) samples, respectively. Salmonella spp. was detected in two samples (1.6 %). No Bacillus cereus andsulfite-reducing clostridia were isolated. Although only 10 samples (8.2 %) showed pathogenic bacteriacontamination, these results are relevant, since they indicate that the population is generally exposedto risks of acquiring foodborne diseases. Thus, the sanitary authorities might implement actions forsupervising the quality of the food sold in Botucatu, and to strengthen the food sellers to improve thehygienic conditions and be aware of the risks of food contamination.

Neste trabalho foi avaliada a qualidade microbiológica de salgados e sanduíches comercializados emBotucatu-SP, seguindo-se a legislação em vigor. As análises foram realizadas de acordo com APHA. Foramanalisadas 122 amostras de salgados de carne, frango, camarão, queijo e vegetais, e sanduíches no períodode agosto/2008 a março/2009. Dezessete (13,9 %) amostras de carne, queijo, vegetais e frango, e em algumasem mais de um parâmetro, estavam em desacordo com a legislação em vigor. Foram detectadas elevadascontagens de coliformes termotolerantes e estafilococos coagulase-positiva, respectivamente, em dez (8,2 %)e oito (6,5 %) amostras. Salmonella spp. foi isolada em duas amostras (1,6 %). As contagens de Bacillus cereuse de Clostrídio Sulfito Redutor não ultrapassaram os padrões da legislação. A maioria dos salgados mostrouresultados dentro dos padrões estabelecidos pela legislação. A presença de bactérias patogênicas comoS. aureus e Salmonella spp. foi demonstrada em 10 amostras (8,2 %); e este resultado é relevante, pois indicaque a população está exposta a riscos de doenças veiculadas por alimentos. Torna-se necessário colocarem prática a vigilância dos alimentos comercializados em Botucatu, incentivar a melhoria de condiçõesde higiene pelos comerciantes, e ter ciência dos riscos e das implicações da contaminação microbiológicados alimentos.

Etiología de las neumonías adquiridas en comunidad en la población infantil / Etiology in community acquired pneumonia in children population

Respiratory infections of lower respiratory tract remain a major cause of mortality in young children worldwide, particularly in developing countries. The Community Acquired Pneumonia (CAP), the infectious etiology pneumonia acquired by a previously healthy individual outside a hospital. In 2012, WHO stated that S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae type b (Hib) are the first and second most common cause of bacterial pneumonia in children, respectively, whereas Respiratory Syncytial Virus is the most frequent cause of viral pneumonia. The assessment and treatment of a child with a respiratory infection of lower airways becomes a challenge as not only the clinical manifestations of infection by viruses, bacteria or atypical bacteria may overlap, but also coinfections occur frequently. The etiological agents of pneumonia in children can be divided into three groups: common bacteria(S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, S. aureus, M. catarrhalis, S. pyogenes, B. pertussis, M. tuberculosis, among others),respiratory viruses (RSV, Influenza A and B, Parainfluenza 1, 2 and 3, Adenovirus, Rhinovirus, Coronavirus, Metapneumovirus, Bocavirus, Enterovirus, Varicella Zoster, among others) and atypical pathogens (M. pneumoniae, C. pneumoniae, C. trachomatis, L. pneumophila, C. burnetii, among others). The etiological diagnosis of CAP in pediatric patients is supported by laboratory tests that generate direct or indirect evidence of the causal germ. The search for the causing agent becomes a challenge, primarily due to the limitation in obtaining appropriate samples and the difficulty to identify the etiological agent and differentiate between colonization and infection. With the available methods, a specific germ is expected to be detected from 16 to 85 percent of the cases, making it difficult to determine the true incidence of these infections. In addition, the variety of diagnostic techniques used in clinical trials and interpretation of the results in the absence...

Las infecciones respiratorias de vías aéreas inferiores siguen siendo una de las principales causas de mortalidad en niños pequeños alrededor del mundo, particularmente en países en desarrollo. La Neumonía Adquirida en la Comunidad (NAC), es la neumonía de etiología infecciosa que adquiere un individuo previamente sano, fuera de un hospital. En el 2012, la OMS, establece que S. pneumoniae y H. influenzae tipo b (Hib) son la primera y segunda causa más común de etiología bacteriana en niños, respectivamente; mientras que el Virus Sincitial Respiratorio es la causa más frecuente de neumonía viral. La evaluación y el manejo de un niño con una infección respiratoria de vías aéreas inferiores, se convierte un reto ya que no sólo las manifestaciones clínicas de las infecciones por virus, bacterias o bacterias atípicas pueden solaparse, sino que también ocurren frecuentemente coinfecciones. Los agentes etiológicos de las neumonías en niños se pueden dividir en 3 grupos: bacterias comunes (S. pneumoniae, H. influenza, S. aureus, M. catarrhalis, S. pyogenes, B. pertussis, M. tuberculosis, entre otros), virus respiratorios (VSR, Influenza A y B, Parainfluenza 1, 2 y 3, Adenovirus, Rhinovirus, Coronavirus, Metapneumovirus, Bocavirus,Enterovirus, Varicela, entre otros) y gérmenes atípicos (M. pneumoniae, C. pneumoniae, C. trachomatis, L. pneumophila, Coxiella burnetii, entre otros). El diagnóstico etiológico de NAC en el paciente pediátrico se apoya en pruebas de laboratorio que generan una evidencia directa o indirecta del germen causal. La búsqueda del agente causal se convierte en un reto debido principalmente a la limitación para obtener muestras adecuadas y a la dificultad de identificar el agente etiológico y diferenciar entre colonización e infección. Con los métodos disponibles se estima que se puede detectar un germen específico entre el 16 al 85 por ciento de los casos; lo cual dificulta la determinación de la incidencia real de estas infecciones...