Frequency of skin diseases in renal transplant recipients and patients with chronic kidney disease in a tertiary center: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) has increased in the recent decades, along with the number of patients in the terminal stages of this disease, requiring transplantation. Some skin disorders are more frequent in patients with CKD and in renal transplant recipients (RTR). OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the frequency of skin diseases in RTR and patients with CKD receiving conservative treatment. DESIGN AND SETTING: This observational cross-sectional study recruited consecutive patients with CKD and RTR from a nephrology clinic at a teaching hospital in Brazil between 2015 and 2020. METHODS: Quantitative, descriptive, and analytical approaches were used. The sample was selected based on convenience sampling. Data were collected from dermatological visits and participants' medical records. RESULTS: Overall, 308 participants were included: 206 RTR (66.9%, median age: 48 years, interquartile range [IQR] 38.0-56.0, 63.6% men) and 102 patients with CKD (33.1%, median age: 61.0 years, IQR 50.0-71.2, 48% men). The frequency of infectious skin diseases (39.3% vs. 21.6% P = 0.002) were higher in RTR than in patients with CKD. Neoplastic skin lesions were present in nine (4.4%) RTR and in only one (1.0%) patient with CKD. Among the RTR, the ratio of basal cell carcinoma to squamous cell carcinoma was 2:1. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed that an increased frequency of infectious skin diseases may be expected in patients who have undergone kidney transplantation. Among skin cancers, BCC is more frequently observed in RTR, especially in those using azathioprine.

Frequency of skin diseases in renal transplant recipients and patients with chronic kidney disease in a tertiary center: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) has increased in the recent decades, along with the number of patients in the terminal stages of this disease, requiring transplantation. Some skin disorders are more frequent in patients with CKD and in renal transplant recipients (RTR). OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the frequency of skin diseases in RTR and patients with CKD receiving conservative treatment. DESIGN AND SETTING: This observational cross-sectional study recruited consecutive patients with CKD and RTR from a nephrology clinic at a teaching hospital in Brazil between 2015 and 2020. METHODS: Quantitative, descriptive, and analytical approaches were used. The sample was selected based on convenience sampling. Data were collected from dermatological visits and participants' medical records. RESULTS: Overall, 308 participants were included: 206 RTR (66.9%, median age: 48 years, interquartile range [IQR] 38.0-56.0, 63.6% men) and 102 patients with CKD (33.1%, median age: 61.0 years, IQR 50.0-71.2, 48% men). The frequency of infectious skin diseases (39.3% vs. 21.6% P = 0.002) were higher in RTR than in patients with CKD. Neoplastic skin lesions were present in nine (4.4%) RTR and in only one (1.0%) patient with CKD. Among the RTR, the ratio of basal cell carcinoma to squamous cell carcinoma was 2:1. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed that an increased frequency of infectious skin diseases may be expected in patients who have undergone kidney transplantation. Among skin cancers, BCC is more frequently observed in RTR, especially in those using azathioprine.

An Early and Sustained Inflammatory State Induces Muscle Changes and Establishes Obesogenic Characteristics in Wistar Rats Exposed to the MSG-Induced Obesity Model.

The model of obesity induced by monosodium glutamate cytotoxicity on the hypothalamic nuclei is widely used in the literature. However, MSG promotes persistent muscle changes and there is a significant lack of studies that seek to elucidate the mechanisms by which damage refractory to reversal is established. This study aimed to investigate the early and chronic effects of MSG induction of obesity upon systemic and muscular parameters of Wistar rats. The animals were exposed to MSG subcutaneously (4 mg·g-1 b.w.) or saline (1.25 mg·g-1 b.w.) daily from PND01 to PND05 (n = 24). Afterwards, in PND15, 12 animals were euthanized to determine the plasma and inflammatory profile and to assess muscle damage. In PND142, the remaining animals were euthanized, and samples for histological and biochemical analyses were obtained. Our results suggest that early exposure to MSG reduced growth, increased adiposity, and inducted hyperinsulinemia and a pro-inflammatory scenario. In adulthood, the following were observed: peripheral insulin resistance, increased fibrosis, oxidative distress, and a reduction in muscle mass, oxidative capacity, and neuromuscular junctions, increased fibrosis, and oxidative distress. Thus, we can conclude that the condition found in adult life and the difficulty restoring in the muscle profile is related to the metabolic damage established early on.

Surgical correction of metatarsal angular deviation in a Thoroughbred filly using wedge metatarsal ostectomy: a case report / Correção cirúrgica de desvio angular metatársico em uma potra Puro-Sangue utilizando ostectomia em cunha: um relato de caso

This study describes a corrective procedure for a metatarsal angular malformation using wedge ostectomy in a 41-day-old Thoroughbred filly. A 41.6 °angular malformation of the metatarsus was corrected with wedge ostectomy of the left hindlimb in association with a type II external fixator and methyl methacrylate resin. The animal was subjected to the surgical procedure under general anesthesia. The filly was placed in dorsal recumbency with the left hind limb free for manipulation. A bone saw was used for the wedge ostectomy, while the bars for external fixation were placed using a drill. A Kirschner pin and acrylic resin were then applied. Radiographic images obtained immediately after surgery confirmed a total malformation reduction of 32.6 (from 41.6° to 9°). With medication and a Robert Jones bandage, intensive postoperative care was instituted to ensure that the animal adapted properly to the linear external fixator without overloading the pins and connection bars. No postoperative complications were observed. On the day after surgery, the filly was standing and walking with no signs of pain. After 180 days, total osseous calcification was achieved, and the implants were removed during the second surgery. The filly demonstrated adequate locomotion, performed all the movements, and ran without any difficulty in the paddock. The remaining discrete angular deviations were partially corrected using hoof trimming.

O objetivo desse estudo é descrever o procedimento de correção da malformação de desvio angular metatársico, utilizando ostectomia em cunha, em uma potra puro-sangue de 41 dias de idade. Uma malformação metatársica angular de 41.6º foi corrigida com a técnica de ostectomia em cunha, em associação com fixador externo tipo II e resina de metilmetacrilato, no membro pélvico esquerdo. O animal foi submetido à cirurgia sob protocolo de anestesia geral. A potra foi posicionada em decúbito dorsal, com o membro pélvico esquerdo livre para manipulação. Para a realização da ostectomia em cunha, foi utilizada uma serra óssea. Para a instalação das barras do fixador externo, uma furadeira foi utilizada e, para fixá-los, pinos de Kirschner e resina acrílica foram aplicados. Logo após a cirurgia, imagens radiográficas foram obtidas para confirmar a redução total de 32,6º (de 41,6º para 9º) de angulação. Para garantir que o animal se adaptasse ao fixador externo linear e não sobrecarregasse os pinos e barras, foram instituídos cuidados pós-operatórios intensos, com medicações e bandagem de Robert Jones. Não houve complicações no pós-operatório. No dia seguinte à cirurgia, a potra estava em pé, caminhando e sem sinais de dor. Após 180 dias, alcançou total calcificação óssea e os implantes puderam ser removidos em um segundo tempo cirúrgico. A potra demonstrou locomoção adequada, realizando todos os movimentos normais e pôde correr pelo pasto sem dificuldades. Um discreto desvio angular remanescente foi parcialmente corrigido por casqueamento.

Microbiological profile of raw refrigerated and processed bovine milk at dairy industries from Vale do Taquari, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Milk is an essential food, widely consumed by the population. Brazil is one of the world's largest producers of milk. Milk quality is influenced by several factors in all its stages of production. The aim of this study was to determine the microbiological profile of refrigerated and processed raw bovine milk from industries in Vale do Taquari, state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, using metagenomic analysis. A total of six samples were collected, one of refrigerated raw milk from the tanker truck, one of pasteurized milk and one of milk sterilized by the ultra-high temperature (UHT) process, in each of the industries. The identification of the milk microbiota was performed by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene. The results show that refrigerated raw milk has a greater number of microorganisms, followed by pasteurized milk and sterilized milk, successively. Processed milk showed the presence of beneficial microorganisms such as Streptococcus thermophilus and Streptococcus macedonicus. Nevertheless, even UHT milk showed the presence of microorganisms considered harmful, such as the Bacillus cereus group, Aeromonas dhakensis, Enterobacter bacterium and Acinetobacter haemolyticus. Metagenomics is a valuable tool for the thorough evaluation of the milk microbiota in order to implement the processing stages in industries.

Bacillus coagulans as an alternative to antibiotics in the performance and control of Salmonella Enteritidis in broilers / Bacillus coagulans como alternativa aos antibióticos sobre o desempenho e controle da Salmonella Enteritidis em frangos de corte

The use of antimicrobial growth promoters in broiler feed has been beneficial for improving performance and preventing diseases. However, the indiscriminate use of these products in the feed can result in the development of resistant bacteria, the accumulation of residues in the products, and an imbalance in the microflora of birds. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate alternatives, such as beneficial microorganisms that improve microbial growth without affecting animal health and product quality. This research aimed to evaluate the supplementation with the probiotic Bacillus coagulans on the performance, carcass characteristics, and health of broilers from seven to 42 days. In total, 720 broilers were used, distributed in a randomized block design with six treatments and eight replicates. The evaluated treatments were as follows: Control ration (RC); PROB1 (Probiotic 400 g/t); PROB2 (Probiotic 400 g/t until 21 days and 200 g/t from 22 to 42 days); RC + antibiotic; RC + Salmonella inoculation; PROB1 + Salmonella inoculation. The treatments did neither influence feed intake, carcass yield, and cuts nor the incidence of injuries to the chest, hock, and footpad. Weight gain and feed conversion were better in birds that received antibiotic or probiotic diets. There was an incidence of Salmonella in the e challenges excreta at 42 days only in the treatment with challenge without a

A utilização de promotores de crescimento antimicrobianos na alimentação de frangos de corte tem sido benéfica para melhoria do desempenho e para prevenção de doenças. Porém, o uso indiscriminado destes produtos nas rações pode resultar em desenvolvimento de bactérias resistentes, acúmulo de resíduos nos produtos e desequilíbrio da microflora das aves. Portanto, torna-se necessário avaliar alternativas como microrganismos benéficos que melhorem o crescimento microbiano, sem afetar a saúde do animal e a qualidade dos seus produtos. Objetivou-se com esta pesquisa avaliar a suplementação do probiótico Bacillus coagulans sobre o desempenho, características de carcaça e saúde de frangos de corte de 7 a 42 dias. Utilizou-se 720 frangos de corte distribuídos em delineamento em blocos casualizados, com seis tratamentos e oito repetições. Os tratamentos avaliados foram: Controle; PROB1 (Probiótico 400 g/t); PROB2 (Probiótico 400 g/ton até os 21 dias e 200 g/t dos 22 aos 42 dias); Controle + antibiótico; Controle + inoculação de Salmonella; PROB1 + inoculação de Salmonella. Os tratamentos não influenciaram o consumo de ração, rendimento de carcaça e cortes e a incidência de lesões no peito, jarrete e coxim plantar. O ganho de peso e a conversão alimentar foram melhores nas aves que receberam rações com antibiótico ou probiótico. Houve incidência de Salmonella nas excretas aos 42 dias som

Impact of Pre-transport Feed Withdrawal on Welfare and Meat Characteristics of European Quails

The objective of this study was evaluate whether pretransport feed withdrawal affects welfare, carcass, and meat characteristics of European quails. A total of 120 European quails were used, with an initial age of 15 days. Bird feed was removed before transport to the slaughterhouse at the following times, which characterised the different treatments: zero hours, three hours, six hours, nine hours and twelve hours. The transport took 54 minutes to cover 27 kilometres to a commercial slaughterhouse. The birds were slaughtered at 41 days of age. During bleeding, blood samples were collected. Blood glucose, total protein, albumin, uric acid, and corticosterone concentrations were measured. The carcasses and meat characteristics were measured. Poultry body weight decreased and blood glucose concentrations increased with the increase in feed withdrawal time. The treatments did not affect carcass weights. Carcass yields after three hours fasting were similar to those in the six hours and nine hours groups, indicating that gastrointestinal tracts were empty after the third hour. Meat quality was negatively affected (pH, lightness, water holding capacity, cooking loss) by the increase in feed withdrawal time; integrated parameters that characterise dark, firm, dry meat. Pre transport feed withdrawal time should be three hours to empty the gastrointestinal tract and minimise losses in meat quality of European quails. It is necessary to adjust feed withdrawal so that it does not exceed this time, since there is no technical justification for supporting it.(AU)

Physicochemical and microbiological quality of bovine milk from Vale do Taquari in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Qualidade físico-química e microbiológica do leite bovino do Vale do Taquari no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

The goal of the present study was to verify the quality of refrigerated raw milk from dairy properties and also of refrigerated raw milk, pasteurized and Ultra High Temperature (UHT) milk from industries in Vale do Taquari in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Physicochemical, microbiological and milk composition analysis were carried out, as established by legislation, in addition to total and thermotolerant coliforms and psychrotrophic counts in the three types of milk and mesophiles count in pasteurized milk and UHT milk from the industries. The collections took place in two industries and 33 dairy properties. Regarding the properties, two (6%) had milk with acidity above that established by legislation and three (9%) had milk with a total bacterial count (TBC) above the established. The milk from industry 1 presented acidity, TBC and density out of the established standards. The two industries and 53.2% of the properties had milk with somatic cell counts (SCC) above that determined by legislation. The milk from the industries showed higher amounts of SCC, TBC, psychrotrophic and total and thermotolerant coliforms than the milk from the dairy properties, and the milk from industry 1 showed higher amounts than the industry 2, in the microbiological parameters.

O objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar a qualidade do leite cru refrigerado das propriedades produtoras de leite e do leite cru refrigerado, pasteurizado e Ultra High Temperature (UHT) das indústrias do Vale do Taquari no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Foram realizadas análises de composição do leite, análises físico-químicas e análises microbiológicas, estabelecidas pela legislação, além de coliformes totais e termotolerantes, contagem de psicrotróficos nos três tipos de leite, contagem de mesófilos no leite pasteurizado e no leite UHT das indústrias. As coletas ocorreram em duas indústrias e 33 propriedades produtoras de leite. Em relação às propriedades, duas (6%) apresentaram leite com acidez acima do estabelecido pela legislação e três (9%) apresentaram leite com contagem bacteriana total (CBT) acima do estabelecido. O leite da indústria 1 apresentou acidez, CBT e densidade fora dos padrões estabelecidos. As duas indústrias e 53,2% das propriedades apresentaram leite com contagem de células somáticas (CCS) acima do determinado pela legislação. O leite das indústrias demonstrou maiores quantidades de CCS, CBT, psicrotróficos e coliformes totais e termotolerantes que o leite das propriedades produtoras de leite e o leite da indústria 1 apresentou maiores quantidades que a indústria 2, nos parâmetros microbiológicos.

Bacillus coagulans as an alternative to antibiotics in the performance and control of Salmonella Enteritidis in broilers / Bacillus coagulans como alternativa aos antibióticos sobre o desempenho e controle da Salmonella Enteritidis em frangos de corte

The use of antimicrobial growth promoters in broiler feed has been beneficial for improving performance and preventing diseases. However, the indiscriminate use of these products in the feed can result in the development of resistant bacteria, the accumulation of residues in the products, and an imbalance in the microflora of birds. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate alternatives, such as beneficial microorganisms that improve microbial growth without affecting animal health and product quality. This research aimed to evaluate the supplementation with the probiotic Bacillus coagulans on the performance, carcass characteristics, and health of broilers from seven to 42 days. In total, 720 broilers were used, distributed in a randomized block design with six treatments and eight replicates. The evaluated treatments were as follows: Control ration (RC); PROB1 (Probiotic 400 g/t); PROB2 (Probiotic 400 g/t until 21 days and 200 g/t from 22 to 42 days); RC + antibiotic; RC + Salmonella inoculation; PROB1 + Salmonella inoculation. The treatments did neither influence feed intake, carcass yield, and cuts nor the incidence of injuries to the chest, hock, and footpad. Weight gain and feed conversion were better in birds that received antibiotic or probiotic diets. There was an incidence of Salmonella in the challenges excreta at42 days only in the treatment with challenge without adding probiotics. We conclude that the probiotic Bacillus coagulans can be used as an alternative to antibiotics in the diet of broilers as it facilitates similar performance and is efficient in the control of Salmonella Enteritidis.

A utilização de promotores de crescimento antimicrobianos na alimentação de frangos de corte tem sido benéfica para melhoria do desempenho e para prevenção de doenças. Porém, o uso indiscriminado destes produtos nas rações pode resultar em desenvolvimento de bactérias resistentes, acúmulo de resíduos nos produtos e desequilíbrio da microflora das aves. Portanto, torna-se necessário avaliar alternativas como microrganismos benéficos que melhorem o crescimento microbiano, sem afetar a saúde do animal e a qualidade dos seus produtos. Objetivou-se com esta pesquisa avaliar a suplementação do probiótico Bacillus coagulans sobre o desempenho, características de carcaça e saúde de frangos de corte de 7 a 42 dias. Utilizou-se 720 frangos de corte distribuídos em delineamento em blocos casualizados, com seis tratamentos e oito repetições. Os tratamentos avaliados foram: Controle; PROB1 (Probiótico 400 g/t); PROB2 (Probiótico 400 g/ton até os 21 dias e 200 g/t dos 22 aos 42 dias); Controle + antibiótico; Controle + inoculação de Salmonella; PROB1 + inoculação de Salmonella. Os tratamentos não influenciaram o consumo de ração, rendimento de carcaça e cortes e a incidência de lesões no peito, jarrete e coxim plantar. O ganho de peso e a conversão alimentar foram melhores nas aves que receberam rações com antibiótico ou probiótico. Houve incidência de Salmonella nas excretas aos 42 dias somente no tratamento com desafio sem adição de probiótico. Conclui-se que o probiótico Bacillus coagulans pode ser usado como alternativa ao antibiótico na ração de frangos de corte, pois proporciona desempenho semelhante e é eficiente no controle da Salmonella Enteritidis

Evaluation of the activity of filamentous fungi isolated from soils of the Pampa biome applied in the biological control of Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae) and Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Acari: Tarsonemidae).

Tetranychus urticae Koch and Polyphagotarsonemus latus Banks are mite species considered capable of attaining pest levels, damaging a range of agricultural crops. The Pampa biome is characterized by the high biodiversity it houses, particularly microbial diversity, which highlights its potential for developing microorganisms that can provide biological control of arthropods. The aim of this study was to evaluate the activity of four fungal isolates from the soil of the Pampa biome in the biological control of T. urticae (females and eggs) and P. latus (females). Experiments consisted of isolating and identifying fungal isolates for spore quantification and aspersion at 108, 106, and 104 spores/mL concentrations in arenas containing T. urticae females and eggs, and P. latus females, separately. Results indicated that only three isolates (Aspergillus brunneoviolaceus, Clonostachys chloroleuca, and Penicillium adametzii) showed high control of T. urticae females, yet they did not exhibit any control of T. urticae eggs and P. latus females. Therefore, the present study confirms the viability of some of these fungi as biological control agents of mites, which implies the importance of new prospects with other fungal species, considering the richness of resources in the Pampa biome, or even the need to test higher concentrations and other variables using the microorganisms of the present study.

Use of alternative tiles in the free-range broilers rearing: thermal environment, productive performance and physiological responses

The physiological parameters and the productive performance of free-range broilers submitted to installations with different materials of tile composition were evaluated. 320 male broilers of the Vermelho Pesadão lineage were used, with an initial age of 35 days, distributed among the following treatments: 1) Fiber cement tile painted white on the outside; 2) Cardboard tile coated with double-sided canvas - black for the interior and white for the exterior; 3) Tetra Pak® box tile; 4) Tile of Tetra Pak® boxes covered with PET bottles. A completely randomized design was used, with 4 replicates per treatment and 20 broilers per experimental unit. The climatic environment was evaluated daily at 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 hours. The productive and physiological parameters were evaluated every 7 days, the last ones being collected at 9 and 15 hours. In the afternoon, the highest values of air temperature and black globe temperature index and humidity were recorded, regardless of the materials evaluated. Fiber cement tiles and cardboard tiles coated with double-sided canvas showed the lowest values of climatic variables. There was no difference between the types of tile for the variables of productive performance and physiological parameters. It was concluded that the fiber-cement tiles painted white on the outside, and the cardboard coated with light canvas on the outside provided a better thermal environment inside the aviaries, which can be indicated for use in shelters for the creation of free-range broilers.(AU)

Use of alternative tiles in the free-range broilers rearing: thermal environment, productive performance and physiological responses

The physiological parameters and the productive performance of free-range broilers submitted to installations with different materials of tile composition were evaluated. 320 male broilers of the Vermelho Pesadão lineage were used, with an initial age of 35 days, distributed among the following treatments: 1) Fiber cement tile painted white on the outside; 2) Cardboard tile coated with double-sided canvas - black for the interior and white for the exterior; 3) Tetra Pak® box tile; 4) Tile of Tetra Pak® boxes covered with PET bottles. A completely randomized design was used, with 4 replicates per treatment and 20 broilers per experimental unit. The climatic environment was evaluated daily at 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 hours. The productive and physiological parameters were evaluated every 7 days, the last ones being collected at 9 and 15 hours. In the afternoon, the highest values of air temperature and black globe temperature index and humidity were recorded, regardless of the materials evaluated. Fiber cement tiles and cardboard tiles coated with double-sided canvas showed the lowest values of climatic variables. There was no difference between the types of tile for the variables of productive performance and physiological parameters. It was concluded that the fiber-cement tiles painted white on the outside, and the cardboard coated with light canvas on the outside provided a better thermal environment inside the aviaries, which can be indicated for use in shelters for the creation of free-range broilers.

Investigation of resistance of Salmonella spp. isolated from products and raw material of animal origin (swine and poultry) to antibiotics and disinfectants / Investigação da resistência a antibióticos e a desinfetantes de Salmonella spp. isoladas em produtos e matéria-prima de origem animal (suínos e aves)

The genus Salmonella spp. Has worldwide geographical distribution, and represents a potential risk both to animal and human health. Inadequate use as well as continuous exposure to antibiotics and disinfectants might lead to the appearance of resistance of these microorganisms to antimicrobial compounds. The aims of this study were to investigate the occurrence of resistance in Salmonella spp., isolated from products and raw material of animal origin (swine and poultry), to antibiotics and disinfectants, and check whether the phenomenon of simultaneous resistance to disinfectants occurs among the antibiotic-resistant isolates. The test of susceptibility to antimicrobials (TSA) applied in 134 isolates indicated that 51 (38%) were resistant to at least one of the eight antibiotics used, and 28 (55%) of resistant isolates were multi-resistant. Resistant isolates were submitted to the test of quantitative suspension against four concentrations of disinfectants in three contact times, and the result was compared with that of the reference strain (Salmonella Choleraesuis ATCC 10.708). While the reference strain was sensitive considering the highest concentration (200 ppm) and the lowest contact time (5 min) as indicators, 12 (24%) isolates were resistant to cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (ammonia quaternary); the reference strain was resistant to chlorhexidine, which also occurred with 22 (43%) of the isolates; similar to the reference strain, all isolates were sensitive/inactivated by sodium hypochlorite and iodophore. There were no significant relations of simultaneous resistance between the antibiotics and the disinfectants tested.(AU)

O gênero Salmonella spp. Possui distribuição geográfica mundial constituindo-se como potencial risco para a saúde animal e saúde humana. O uso inadequado bem como a exposição continuada aos antibióticos e aos desinfetantes pode resultar no surgimento de resistência desses microrganismos frente aos compostos antimicrobianos. Os objetivos do trabalho foram investigar a ocorrência de resistência a antibióticos e aos desinfetantes de Salmonella spp. isoladas em produtos e matéria-prima de origem animal (suínos e aves), e verificar se entre os isolados resistentes a antibióticos ocorre o fenômeno de resistência concomitante com desinfetantes. O teste de susceptibilidade a antimicrobianos (TSA) aplicado em 134 isolados indicou que 51 (38%) foram resistentes a pelo menos um dos oito antibióticos usados, sendo que 28 (55% dos resistentes) mostraram-se multirresistentes. Os isolados resistentes foram submetidos ao teste de suspensão quantitativo frente a quatro concentrações de desinfetantes em três tempos de contato, e o resultado comparado com o da cepa referência (Salmonella Choleraesuis ATCC 10.708). Considerando como indicador a maior concentração (200 ppm) e o menor tempo de contato (5 min), frente ao cloreto de cetil trimetilamônio (quaternário de amônia), enquanto a cepa referência foi sensível, 12 (24%) dos isolados foram resistentes; a cepa referência foi resistente a clorexidina, o que ocorreu com 22 (43%) dos isolados; assim como ocorreu com a cepa referência, todos os isolados foram sensíveis/inativados pelo hipoclorito de sódio e iodóforo. Não houve relações estatisticamente significativas de resistência concomitante entre os antibióticos e os desinfetantes testados.(AU)

Population growth of the stored product pest Tyrophagus putrescentiae (Acari: Acaridae) on environmentally and medically important fungi.

The stored food mite Tyrophagus putrescentiae (Schrank) (Acari: Acaridae) has been associated with the presence of several fungal species. The aims of this work were to evaluate T. putrescentiae population growth associated to environmental and medically important fungal species to determine on which fungal species populations of T. putrescentiae performs best, and to evaluate their ability to disperse each fungal species. First, 24 fungal species were inoculated separately in Petri dishes containing Sabouraud agar medium. One week after inoculation, 50 mites were added to each plate. On the 28th evaluation day, mites and eggs were counted in each plate, and 50 mites randomly collected from each replicate were transferred to new plates containing only Sabouraud agar medium. Then, mites, eggs, and fungal population were evaluated in each plate on day 28 again. The highest population increases were on Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Alternaria sp., Microsporum gypseum, and Aspergillus chevalieri. With Fusarium guttiforme and the medically important fungi Microsporum canis, M. gypseum, T. mentagrophytes, and Sporothrix sp., mites were observed to feed on whole mycelium. Only eight fungal species were dispersed by T. putrescentiae to the new Petri dishes: Aspergillus clavatus, Candida tropicalis, Candida albicans, Fusarium guttiforme, Hyphopichia burtonii, Penicillium citrinum, Rhizophus azygosporus, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. The best performance of T. putrescentiae was found feeding on F. guttiforme, P. citrinum, and T. mentagrophytes. In conclusion, T. putrescentiae successfully used fungi as a food source, and it proved to be an important tool for disseminating both environmental and medically important fungi.

Investigation of resistance of Salmonella spp. isolated from products and raw material of animal origin (swine and poultry) to antibiotics and disinfectants / Investigação da resistência a antibióticos e a desinfetantes de Salmonella spp. isoladas em produtos e matéria-prima de origem animal (suínos e aves)

The genus Salmonella spp. Has worldwide geographical distribution, and represents a potential risk both to animal and human health. Inadequate use as well as continuous exposure to antibiotics and disinfectants might lead to the appearance of resistance of these microorganisms to antimicrobial compounds. The aims of this study were to investigate the occurrence of resistance in Salmonella spp., isolated from products and raw material of animal origin (swine and poultry), to antibiotics and disinfectants, and check whether the phenomenon of simultaneous resistance to disinfectants occurs among the antibiotic-resistant isolates. The test of susceptibility to antimicrobials (TSA) applied in 134 isolates indicated that 51 (38%) were resistant to at least one of the eight antibiotics used, and 28 (55%) of resistant isolates were multi-resistant. Resistant isolates were submitted to the test of quantitative suspension against four concentrations of disinfectants in three contact times, and the result was compared with that of the reference strain (Salmonella Choleraesuis ATCC 10.708). While the reference strain was sensitive considering the highest concentration (200 ppm) and the lowest contact time (5 min) as indicators, 12 (24%) isolates were resistant to cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (ammonia quaternary); the reference strain was resistant to chlorhexidine, which also occurred with 22 (43%) of the isolates; similar to the reference strain, all isolates were sensitive/inactivated by sodium hypochlorite and iodophore. There were no significant relations of simultaneous resistance between the antibiotics and the disinfectants tested.

O gênero Salmonella spp. Possui distribuição geográfica mundial constituindo-se como potencial risco para a saúde animal e saúde humana. O uso inadequado bem como a exposição continuada aos antibióticos e aos desinfetantes pode resultar no surgimento de resistência desses microrganismos frente aos compostos antimicrobianos. Os objetivos do trabalho foram investigar a ocorrência de resistência a antibióticos e aos desinfetantes de Salmonella spp. isoladas em produtos e matéria-prima de origem animal (suínos e aves), e verificar se entre os isolados resistentes a antibióticos ocorre o fenômeno de resistência concomitante com desinfetantes. O teste de susceptibilidade a antimicrobianos (TSA) aplicado em 134 isolados indicou que 51 (38%) foram resistentes a pelo menos um dos oito antibióticos usados, sendo que 28 (55% dos resistentes) mostraram-se multirresistentes. Os isolados resistentes foram submetidos ao teste de suspensão quantitativo frente a quatro concentrações de desinfetantes em três tempos de contato, e o resultado comparado com o da cepa referência (Salmonella Choleraesuis ATCC 10.708). Considerando como indicador a maior concentração (200 ppm) e o menor tempo de contato (5 min), frente ao cloreto de cetil trimetilamônio (quaternário de amônia), enquanto a cepa referência foi sensível, 12 (24%) dos isolados foram resistentes; a cepa referência foi resistente a clorexidina, o que ocorreu com 22 (43%) dos isolados; assim como ocorreu com a cepa referência, todos os isolados foram sensíveis/inativados pelo hipoclorito de sódio e iodóforo. Não houve relações estatisticamente significativas de resistência concomitante entre os antibióticos e os desinfetantes testados.

Prevalence of latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection in renal transplant recipients / Prevalência da infecção latente por Mycobacterium tuberculosis em transplantados renais

ABSTRACT Objective: To estimate the prevalence of latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection (LTBI) in renal transplant recipients and to assess sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical associations with positive tuberculin skin test (TST) results. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of patients aged ≥ 18 years who underwent renal transplantation at the Renal Transplant Center of the Federal University of Minas Gerais Hospital das Clínicas, located in the city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. We included renal transplant recipients who underwent the TST between January 2011 and July 2013. If the result of the first TST was negative, a second TST was administered. Bivariate and multivariate analyses using logistic regression were used to determine factors associated with positive TST results. Results: The sample included 216 patients. The prevalence of LTBI was 18.5%. In the multivariate analysis, history of contact with a tuberculosis case and preserved graft function (estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2) were associated with positive TST results. TST induration increased by 5.8% from the first to the second test, which was considered significant (p = 0.012). Conclusions: The prevalence of LTBI was low in this sample of renal transplant recipients. The TST should be administered if renal graft function is preserved. A second TST should be administered if the first TST is negative.

RESUMO Objetivo: Estimar a prevalência da infecção latente por Mycobacterium tuberculosis (ILTB) em transplantados renais e avaliar as associações sociodemográficas, comportamentais e clínicas com a prova tuberculínica (PT) positiva. Métodos: Estudo transversal, com pacientes com idade ≥ 18 anos, transplantados renais no Centro de Transplante Renal do Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, em Belo Horizonte (MG). Foram incluídos os pacientes submetidos a transplante renal que realizaram a PT no período entre janeiro de 2011 e julho de 2013. Quando o resultado da primeira PT foi negativo, uma segunda PT foi realizada. As análises bivariada e multivariada, por meio de regressão logística, foram utilizadas para determinar os fatores associados com PT positiva. Resultados: A amostra incluiu 216 pacientes. A taxa de prevalência para ILTB foi de 18.5%. Na análise multivariada, história de contato com caso de tuberculose e função do enxerto preservada (taxa de filtração glomerular estimada ≥ 60 ml/min/1,73 m2) foram associadas com PT positiva. O incremento da primeira PT para a segunda PT foi de 5,8%, considerado significante (p = 0,012). Conclusões: A prevalência da ILTB foi baixa nessa amostra de pacientes transplantados renais. A PT deve ser efetuada quando a função do enxerto renal estiver preservada. Uma segunda PT deve ser realizada quando a primeira PT for negativa.

Characterization of technological and probiotic properties of indigenous Lactobacillus spp. from south Brazil.

In this study, we isolated Lactobacillus spp. from bovine raw milk and artisanal cheese from southern Brazil, and evaluated their technological and probiotic potential to select new isolates for producing healthy fermented dairy foods with differentiated tastes and flavours. We obtained 48 new lactobacilli isolates, which were isolated from raw milk (38) and cheese (10). These bacterial isolates were closely related with ten species: Lactobacillus paracasei (50% of the isolates), L. parabuchneri (15%), L. pentosus (13%), L. zeae (4%), L. plantarum (4%), L. otakiensis (4%), L. casei (4%), L. harbinensis (2%), L. diolivorans (2%), and L. rhamnosus (2%). Isolates CH112 and CH131 showed the greatest acidification potential, reducing the pH of milk to below 5.3 after incubation for 6 h at 32 °C. Considering proteolytic activity and diacetyl production, isolates ML88a, ML04, and ML12 showed the most promising results. Isolate ML12 showed 100% survival rate when inoculated in gastric juice at pH 2.5. The evaluation of antibacterial activity of the lactobacilli showed that the pathogens Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enteritidis, and Salmonella Typhimurium were strongly inhibited by the pure lactobacilli cultures. Five Lactobacillus isolates (ML01, ML04, ML12, ML88, and CH139) showed both technological and probiotic characteristics. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to investigate correlations among technological and probiotic characteristics, and identified new promising lactobacilli isolates for exploring their characteristics. This study reveals the importance of selecting new microorganisms with potential applicability in the food industry for developing functional foods with differentiated aromas and flavours.

Development of alginate-pectin microparticles with dairy whey using vibration technology: Effects of matrix composition on the protection of Lactobacillus spp. from adverse conditions.

In this study, lactic acid bacteria with probiotic potential, including Lactobacillus plantarum ATCC8014, L. paracasei ML33 and L. pentosus ML82, were encapsulated with whey-alginate-pectin (WAP) or whey permeate-alginate-pectin (PAP) by an extrusion process using vibrational technology, with the resulting microparticles assessed for their resistance to adverse conditions. The aim was to assess the effect of the encapsulation wall materials on the viability of microorganisms, the encapsulation, refrigerated storage and simulated gastrointestinal tract conditions, the kinetic parameters of acidification, and the morphology of microparticles. The bacteria encapsulated with the WAP wall material were adequately protected. Furthermore, after three months of storage at 4 °C, the encapsulated bacteria exhibited a cell viability of >6 log CFU mL-1. In addition, the encapsulated L. plantarum ATCC8014 and L. pentosus ML82 isolates exhibited the highest viability at the end of the storage period among the assayed isolates. Encapsulated bacteria showed greater resistance to acidic conditions than unencapsulated bacteria when exposed to simulated gastrointestinal tract conditions. The maximum rate of milk acidification by encapsulated Lactobacillus spp. was approximately three-fold lower than that observed for unencapsulated bacteria. The resulting size of the microparticles generated using both combinations of wall materials used was approximately 150 µm. The cheese whey and whey permeate combined with alginate and pectin to adequately encapsulate and protect Lactobacillus spp. from the adverse conditions of the simulated gastrointestinal tract and from refrigeration storage temperatures. Furthermore, the sizes of the obtained microparticles indicated that the encapsulated materials are suitable for being incorporated into foods without changing their sensory properties.

Prevalence of latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection in renal transplant recipients.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection (LTBI) in renal transplant recipients and to assess sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical associations with positive tuberculin skin test (TST) results. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study of patients aged ≥ 18 years who underwent renal transplantation at the Renal Transplant Center of the Federal University of Minas Gerais Hospital das Clínicas, located in the city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. We included renal transplant recipients who underwent the TST between January 2011 and July 2013. If the result of the first TST was negative, a second TST was administered. Bivariate and multivariate analyses using logistic regression were used to determine factors associated with positive TST results. RESULTS: The sample included 216 patients. The prevalence of LTBI was 18.5%. In the multivariate analysis, history of contact with a tuberculosis case and preserved graft function (estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2) were associated with positive TST results. TST induration increased by 5.8% from the first to the second test, which was considered significant (p = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of LTBI was low in this sample of renal transplant recipients. The TST should be administered if renal graft function is preserved. A second TST should be administered if the first TST is negative.

Anti-Escherichia coli effect of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. in a meat model

Abstract Hibiscus sabdariffa L. is used in traditional medicine because of its bioactive properties, such as antioxidant and antibacterial. Escherichia coli is a Gram-negative bacteria and as an indicator of contamination in food. The aim of this work was to evaluate the anti-Escherichia coli effect and the change in pH on the control of aerobic mesophilic microorganisms, using hydroethanolic extract of H. sabdariffa L. in different concentrations in a meat model, verifying its potential as food additive for microbiological stability on ground beef during cooling storage. For the preparation of the treatments, the meat experimental units were elaborated with different concentrations of the vegetal extract (5, 10, 15 and 20%), ground beef and contaminated with E. coli. For pH evaluation, the meat experimental units were added different percentages of hydroethanolic extract. The H. sabdariffa L. antibacterial action reduced two logarithmic levels in practically all treatments. The best pH result was obtained in the meat containing 30% of the extract. The hydroethanolic extracts of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. showed anti-Escherichia coli activity in the presence of refrigerated ground beef. Analyzing the pH results and the count of aerobic mesophilic bacteria, it is possible this extract to be used as a natural food additive.