Microbiological quality and native lactic acid bacteria diversity of artisanal Mexican cheeses: A review.

This review aims to provide an overview of artisanal Mexican cheeses microbiota focused on microbiological quality and safety, as well as native Lactic acid Bacteria (LAB) diversity. For the search, key words of artisanal Mexican cheeses varieties was carried out through several online databases and original articles were screened and data about populations of indicator microorganisms, presence of pathogens, and native LAB identified were extracted. Several artisanal Mexican cheeses exceeded the permissible limit established in Mexican regulation (NOM-243-SSA1-2010) for indicator microorganisms, as well as in some types of cheese, the presence of pathogens was confirmed. However, other varieties of artisanal Mexican cheeses possess unique physicochemical characteristics, and during their manufacturing particular steps are used that contribute to ensuring their quality and safety. Additionally, strains able to control the growth of pathogenic and spoilage bacteria are part of the microbiota of some artisanal Mexican cheeses. About native LAB diversity, it is composed by species of Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, Streptococcus, Leuconostoc, Weisella, Lactococcus, Pediococus, Aerococus, Carnobacterium, Tetragenococus, among others genera. Otherwise, artisanal Mexican cheeses represent an important source of specific LAB with several approaches within human health because they showed potential for the development of functional foods, nutraceutical, and bioprotective cultures.

Use of artisanal and non-regulated cannabis-based products for the treatment of epilepsy in a low-income population.

INTRODUCTION: Several artisanal and non-regulated cannabis-based products used for the treatment of epilepsy are available and can be easily obtained. Many of these preparations lack proper quality validation and exhibit cannabinoid contents significantly different from those stated on their labels, along with the presence of potentially harmful compounds. This study aims to evaluate the frequency of use and prescription patterns of these products among patients with epilepsy from a low-income population. METHODS: Observational and cross-sectional study. A survey was conducted on patients with epilepsy at a public hospital in Bogotá, Colombia. RESULTS: A total of 380 patients were evaluated, with 10.3 % (n = 39) reporting the use of artisanal and non-regulated cannabis-based products for the treatment of epilepsy. Among these patients, 84.6 % (n = 33) used the product on their own initiative, without a medical recommendation. Only 7.7 % (n = 3) of the patients had a record of the consumption of these products in their medical history. Age (p = 0.002), type of therapeutic response (p = 0.01), number of previous antiseizure medications used (p < 0.01), and non-pharmacological treatment such as vagal nerve stimulation (p < 0.01) showed a statistically significant association with the utilization of these products. CONCLUSION: One in ten patients with epilepsy has used artisanal and non-regulated cannabis-based products for the treatment of their condition. The majority of patients used these products on their own initiative, without a medical recommendation. The prevalence of consuming these products was higher among younger individuals with uncontrolled epilepsy, who had previously used multiple antiseizure medications and other non-pharmacological alternatives such as vagal nerve stimulation.

Occurrence of ochratoxin A in cocoa beans and bean-to-bar chocolates.

The growing health consciousness of consumers has led to an increase in the consumption of artisanal chocolates, mainly due to their recognized health benefits. However, processing steps such as fermentation and drying of cocoa beans can favor the growth of ochratoxigenic fungi. This study aimed to assess the occurrence of ochratoxin A (OTA) in cocoa beans (purchased from e-commerce and post-harvest processing) and bean-to-bar chocolates sold in Brazil. An HPLC-FLD method was validated, with recovery values between 84 and 97% and limits of detection and quantification of 0.04 and 0.01 µg/kg, respectively. OTA was detected in 30% of the cocoa bean samples studied (n = 43), with values ranging from < 0.04 to 1.18 µg/kg. Regarding the bean-to-bar chocolates (n = 62), the OTA concentrations ranged from < 0.04 to 1.11 µg/kg, with a prevalence in semi-sweet and dark chocolates. Despite representing a growing market, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report OTA concentrations in bean-to-bar chocolates and Brazilian cocoa beans used to produce this type of chocolate.

Characterization of a Peruvian coastal fishery targeting the Pacific guitarfish Pseudobatos planiceps.

From December 2012 to June 2014, 796 Pacific guitarfish were caught in 183 fishing sets in northern Peru. Catch occurred in 86.3% of sets. Most individuals caught were mature with a bias toward males. The mean total length for females and males was 83.4 cm, and 91.1 cm, respectively. The capture per unit effort (CPUE) was 12.6 ± 3.4 guitarfish (km.12 h)-1. The length-weight relationships showed that this species presents a sexual dimorphism in growth. These results support the importance of Sechura Bay as a key area for this species. This study represents the first species-specific fishery data for the Pacific guitarfish.

Bacteriocinogenic anti-listerial properties and safety assessment of Enterococcus faecium and Lactococcus garvieae strains isolated from Brazilian artisanal cheesemaking environment.

AIMS: This study aimed to prospect and isolate lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from an artisanal cheese production environment, to assess their safety, and to explore their bacteriocinogenic potential against Listeria monocytogenes. METHODS AND RESULTS: Samples were collected from surfaces of an artisanal-cheese production facility and after rep-PCR and 16S rRNA sequencing analysis, selected strains were identified as to be belonging to Lactococcus garvieae (1 strain) and Enterococcus faecium (14 isolates, grouped into three clusters) associated with different environments (worktables, cheese mold, ripening wooden shelves). All of them presented bacteriocinogenic potential against L. monocytogenes ATCC 7644 and were confirmed as safe (γ-hemolytic, not presenting antibiotic resistance, no mucus degradation properties, and no proteolytic or gelatinase enzyme activity). Additionally, cell growth, acidification and bacteriocins production kinetics, bacteriocin stability in relation to different temperatures, pH, and chemicals were evaluated. According to performed PCR analysis all studied strains generated positive evidence for the presence of entA and entP genes (for production of enterocins A and enterocins P, respectively). However, pediocin PA-1 associated gene was recorded only in DNA obtained from E. faecium ST02JL and Lc. garvieae ST04JL. CONCLUSIONS: It is worth considering the application of these safe LAB or their bacteriocins in situ as an alternative means of controlling L. monocytogenes in cheese production environments, either alone or in combination with other antimicrobials.

Afro-Colombian way of life and fishing territorialities in Chocó (Colombia) / Modo de vida afrocolombiano y territorialidades pesqueras en el chocó (colombia)

RESUMEN El Pacífico colombiano es un territorio-región ocupado en su mayoría por comunidades negras que tienen un modo de vida tradicional basado en la pesca, la agricultura y el extractivismo tradicional. Sin embargo, con la llegada de las lógicas desarrollistas, este modo de vida comienza a sufrir transformaciones que colocan las territorialidades tradicionales en confrontación con otras lógicas externas a la comunidad. Aquí se pretende (1) caracterizar el modo de vida tradicional afrocolombiano, especialmente en su relación simbólica con la pesca artesanal, (2) identificar territorialidades pesqueras y (3) analizar los conflictos territoriales presentes en Bahía Solano. Para eso, se hizo trabajo de campo con observación participante, reportes etnográficos, fotodocumentación, entrevistas con guión semiestructurado y cartografía social participativa, con el objetivo de brindar este aporte, desde una perspectiva geográfica e interdisciplinaria que aún está ausente en las investigaciones acerca de esta región. Se observa que con la inserción de las comunidades en lógicas de producción conectadas con el "afuera", más rentables como el turismo, el narcotráfico y la pesca industrial, se superponen nuevas territorialidades. En las territorialidades nuevas y en las tradicionales el elemento "mar" es necesario para la reproducción de los modos de vida, especialmente en lo material, a través del trabajo y la alimentación.

ABSTRACT The Colombian Pacific is a territory-region occupied mostly by black communities that have a traditional way of life based on fishing, agriculture and traditional extractivism. However, with the arrival of developmental logics, this way of life begins to undergo transformations that place traditional territorialities in confrontation with other logics external to the community. Therefore, the objective here is (1) to characterize the traditional Afro-Colombian way of life, especially in its symbolic relationship with artisanal fishing, (2) to identify fishing territorialities and (3) to analyze the territorial conflicts present in Bahía Solano. For this, fieldwork was carried out with participant observation, ethnographic reports, photodocumentation and interviews with a semi-structured script, with the aim of providing a contribution from an interdisciplinary perspective, still absent in research in this region. It was observed that with the insertion of communities into "external" and more profitable productive logics, such as tourism, drug trafficking and industrial fishing, new territorialities are superimposed. In these new territorialities, as in the more traditional ones, the sea is a necessary element for the reproduction of the Afro-Colombian way of life, especially through work and food.

O mar que habita em mim: estratégias de comunicação sobre o trabalho da pesca artesanal de mulheres das águas / The sea that lives in me: communication strategies about the artisanal fishing work of women from the Waters / El mar que habita en mí: estrategias de comunicación sobre el trabajo pesquero artesanal de las mujeres de las aguas

As pescadoras artesanais do litoral de Pernambuco enfrentam os impactos das indústrias, do derramamento de petróleo e da pandemia de covid-19, conformando uma sindemia que agrava as vulnerabilidades socioe-conômicas, ambientais e sanitárias. Objetivou-se demonstrar que estratégias de comunicação e divulgação científica, como a cartilha "Saúde das mulheres das águas" e o documentário O mar que habita em mim, são importantes por promoverem a democratização do conhecimento. Trata-se de pesquisa-ação do tipo etnográfica para identificar aspectos do trabalho e da vida. Participaram 34 pescadoras, mediante grupos focais, oficina de fluxograma laboral, vivência do trabalho da pesca, análise e produção de estratégias. Esses materiais demonstram a relação saúde doença no trabalho da pesca enfatizando narrativas sobre deter-minação social da saúde. As estratégias comunicativas provocaram interesse da sociedade, promoveram debate e contribuíram para a consciência de profissionais/gestores de saúde sobre os povos das águas e as situações nos territórios.

Artisanal fisherwomen of Pernambuco face the impacts of the industries, of an oil spill and of the covid-19 pandemic, forming a syndemic that aggravates socioeconomic, environmental and health vulnerabilities. The objective was to demonstrate that scientific communication and dissemination strategies, such as the booklet "Saúde das mulheres das águas" and the documentary O mar que habita em mim, promote knowledge. This is an ethnographic type of action research to identify aspects of work and life. A total of 34 artisanal fisherwomen participated, in focus groups, labor flowchart workshop, experience of fishing work, analysis and production of strategies. These materials demonstrate the health disease relationship in fishing work, emphasizing the narratives of the fisherwomen about the social determination of their health. The communicative strategies provoked society's interests, promoted the debate and contributed to the awareness of professionals and health managers about the health of water's people and situations in the territories.

Pescadoras artesanales de pernambucano enfrentan impactos de industrias, derrame de petróleo y la pandemia de covid-19, formando una sindemia que agrava vulnerabilidades socioeconómicas, ambientales y de salud. El objetivo fue demostrar que las estrategias de comunicación y divulgación científica, como el folleto "'Salud das mujeres das aguas" y el documentario El mar que habita en mí, democratizan el conocimiento. Tiene abordaje de investigación-acción, etnográfica, para identificar aspectos del trabajo y la vida. Participaron 34 pescadoras en grupos focales, taller del flujo de trabajo, vivencia del trabajo en la pesca, análisis y elaboración de estrategias. Estos materiales demuestran la relación salud enfermedad en el trabajo pesquero, enfatizando narrativas sobre la determinación social de la salud. Las estrategias comu-nicativas despertaron el interés de la sociedad, promovieron el debate y contribuyeron a la sensibilización de los profesionales/gestores de la salud sobre los pueblos de las aguas y las situaciones de los territorios.

Evidence of plastics contamination and sewage-derived residues in a Brazilian Hope Spot for conservation of marine biodiversity - Cagarras Islands and surrounding waters.

Cagarras Islands Archipelago, a no-take MPA in Southeast Brazil, was designated as Natural Monument (MONA Cagarras) and, more recently, recognized as Hope Spot for biodiversity conservation. This study aimed to assess plastic contamination by analyzing marine litter and microplastics in MONA Cagarras and surrounding waters. Marine litter (34.12 kg) was caught by artisanal fishermen in MONA Cagarras proximities, and plastics represented ∼79 %. Personal hygiene items and strains of hair were found, suggesting sewage-derived contamination from Ipanema SSO. Microplastics were detected in MONA Cagarras surface waters. Fragments and black particle were the most frequently found microplastic shape and color, respectively. µ-FTIR analysis identified, in descending order of occurrence, polystyrene-PS, polyethylene-PE, polyvinyl chloride-PVC, polypropylene-P, and polyamide-PA. Our integrated results of macro and microplastic contamination highlight an issue of effective conservation and health of marine biodiversity in MONA Cagarras and surrounding waters and a concern for better management of Brazilian MPAs.

Highly Sensitive Whole-Cell Mercury Biosensors for Environmental Monitoring.

Whole-cell biosensors could serve as eco-friendly and cost-effective alternatives for detecting potentially toxic bioavailable heavy metals in aquatic environments. However, they often fail to meet practical requirements due to an insufficient limit of detection (LOD) and high background noise. In this study, we designed a synthetic genetic circuit specifically tailored for detecting ionic mercury, which we applied to environmental samples collected from artisanal gold mining sites in Peru. We developed two distinct versions of the biosensor, each utilizing a different reporter protein: a fluorescent biosensor (Mer-RFP) and a colorimetric biosensor (Mer-Blue). Mer-RFP enabled real-time monitoring of the culture's response to mercury samples using a plate reader, whereas Mer-Blue was analysed for colour accumulation at the endpoint using a specially designed, low-cost camera setup for harvested cell pellets. Both biosensors exhibited negligible baseline expression of their respective reporter proteins and responded specifically to HgBr2 in pure water. Mer-RFP demonstrated a linear detection range from 1 nM to 1 µM, whereas Mer-Blue showed a linear range from 2 nM to 125 nM. Our biosensors successfully detected a high concentration of ionic mercury in the reaction bucket where artisanal miners produce a mercury-gold amalgam. However, they did not detect ionic mercury in the water from active mining ponds, indicating a concentration lower than 3.2 nM Hg2+-a result consistent with chemical analysis quantitation. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of Mer-Blue as a practical and affordable monitoring tool, highlighting its stability, reliance on simple visual colorimetry, and the possibility of sensitivity expansion to organic mercury.

Comparison of hyperspectral imaging and spectrometers for prediction of cheeses composition.

Artisanal cheeses are part of the heritage and identity of different countries or regions. In this work, we investigated the spectral variability of a wide range of traditional Brazilian cheeses and compared the performance of different spectrometers to discriminate cheese types and predict compositional parameters. Spectra in the visible (vis) and near infrared (NIR) region were collected, using imaging (vis/NIR-HSI and NIR-HSI) and conventional (NIRS) spectrometers, and it was determined the chemical composition of seven types of cheeses produced in Brazil. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that spectral variability in the vis/NIR spectrum is related to differences in color (yellowness index) and fat content, while in NIR there is a greater influence of productive steps and fat content. Partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLSDA) models based on spectral information showed greater accuracy than the model based on chemical composition to discriminate types of traditional Brazilian cheeses. Partial least squares (PLS) regression models based on vis/NIR-HSI, NIRS, NIR-HSI data and HSI spectroscopic data fusion (vis/NIR + NIR) demonstrated excellent performance to predict moisture content (RPD > 2.5), good ability to predict fat content (2.0 < RPD < 2.5) and can be used to discriminate between high and low protein values (∼1.5 < RPD < 2.0). The results obtained for imaging and conventional equipment are comparable and sufficiently accurate, so that both can be adapted to predict the chemical composition of the Brazilian traditional cheeses used in this study according to the needs of the industry.

Unveiling ochratoxin A and ochratoxigenic fungi in Brazilian artisanal Cheeses: Insights from production to consumption.

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a toxin produced by several Aspergillus species, mainly those belonging to section Circumdati and section Nigri. The presence of OTA in cheese has been reported recently in cave cheese in Italy. As artisanal cheese production in Brazil has increased, the aim of this study was to investigate the presence of ochratoxin A and related fungi in artisanal cheese consumed in Brazil. A total of 130 samples of artisanal cheeses with natural moldy rind at different periods of maturation were collected. Of this total, 79 samples were collected from 6 producers from Canastra region in the state of Minas Gerais, since this is the largest artisanal cheese producer region; 13 samples from one producer in the Amparo region in the state of São Paulo and 36 samples from markets located in these 2 states. Aspergillus section Circumdati occurred in samples of three producers and some samples from the markets. A. section Circumdati colony counts varied from 102 to 106 CFU/g. Molecular analysis revealed Aspergillus westerdijkiae (67 %) as the most frequent species, followed by Aspergillus ostianus (22 %), and Aspergillus steynii (11 %). All of these isolates of A. section Circumdati were able to produce OTA in Yeast Extract Sucrose Agar (YESA) at 25 °C/7 days. OTA was found in 22 % of the artisanal cheese samples, ranging from 1.0 to above 1000 µg/kg, but only five samples had OTA higher than 1000 µg/kg. These findings emphasize the significance of ongoing monitoring and quality control in the artisanal cheese production process to minimize potential health risks linked to OTA contamination.

Unveiling the reproductive and migrative behavior of Trichiurus lepturus in a tropical environment: Insights and implications.

This study aimed to understand the reproductive biology and migrative behavior of the largehead hairtail Trichiurus lepturus in a tropical area, specifically off Pernambuco coast, northeastern Brazil. Commercial catches from fish corrals provided samples for analysis, including measurements, weight recording, and examination of gonads to determine its maturation stage. Reproductive analyses were performed, such as sex ratio, gonado-somatic index, and sizes at first maturity. There was a slightly higher proportion of females among the 141 largehead hairtail specimens analysed. No significant differences were observed in length distributions between males and females. However, during the winter, significant differences were observed in length distributions for grouped sexes. The species exhibited a seasonal migratory pattern, with a higher presence on the continental shelf during the winter. The study identified strategic allocation of energy in feeding activities and temporal spacing of reproductive cycles, as indicated by the sex ratio and abundance of individuals during different seasons. Fish corrals probably do not harm largehead hairtail population off the southwestern Atlantic tropical coast, with minimal capture of individuals below the size of first maturity. The insights of the study into reproductive and migration patterns contribute to future assessments and management strategies for this species and corral fisheries.

Flavor and TASTE attributes and nutritional insights of maize tortillas from landraces of Mexican races.

Maize tortilla is the best-recognized food product of Mexican gastronomy. Artisanal maize tortillas (AMT) are prepared with native maize varieties and a traditional process. The aims of this study were to identify sensory attributes, texture, and color in AMT that allow them to be differentiated from commercial tortillas, and to determine the chemical and mineral composition of both types of tortillas. Six landraces related to four Mexican maize races were used. Two commercial tortillas were included as references (tortillería and supermarket). Tortillas were subjected to sensory analysis by the modified Flash technique, texture and color were measured objectively and chemical and mineral analysis of all tortillas were evaluated. Lime taste and lime smell attributes were relevant to differentiate AMT from commercial tortillas; aftertaste and fracturability attributes were highly associated to supermarket tortillas. The fracturability attribute of tortillas is consider undesirable for taco preparation. Five of the six AMT were characterized by the presence of a layer, a characteristic that is associated with traditional tortilla made by Mexican consumer. Regarding chemical composition, supermarket tortillas exhibited the highest dietary fiber content (17.09%), but showed 30% more Na than AMT, with the exception of tortillas from Purepecha native variety. Besides, supermarket tortilla had 48.9% less Ca than AMT. The sensory attributes relevant to differentiate native maize tortillas from the commercial maize tortilla references were appearance, smell, and taste, while textural and color attributes played a lesser role.

Trends in Mercury Contamination Distribution among Human and Animal Populations in the Amazon Region.

Mercury contamination in the Amazon arising from both natural sources and intensive mining activities in the region is a significant public health concern. This metal is used to separate Au from sediments. Accordingly, this study aimed to assess the impact of mining on mercury contamination in the animal and human populations of the Amazon. This overall objective was pursued through a systematic review of the existing literature to assess the impact of Hg and identify gaps in geographic coverage arising from this assessment. Herein, we employed PECO and PRISMA-ScR protocols to select articles published between 2017 and 2023 based on projected points on a map within the biogeographic boundaries of the Amazon. We found that mercury concentrations increase with trophic levels, reaching high values of 3.7 µg/g in the muscles of predatory fish and 34.9 µg/g in human hair. The mean level of mercury in human hair in the whole (Amazon) region exceeds 6 µg/g, surpassing tolerance levels. Although mining regions show high concentrations of Hg, the highest incidence was observed among populations with fish-based diets. It was concluded that continuous research and monitoring of fish in the region are required in order to accurately assess the risk associated with Hg contamination, especially since fish are the main source of protein in this region.

Trace elements in bean-to-bar chocolates from Brazil and Ecuador.

BACKGROUND: The high quality and unique flavor and aroma of bean-to-bar chocolates have resulted in an increase in the consumption of these products. Nevertheless, cocoa beans may present inorganic contaminants from environmental and anthropogenic sources which can contribute to contamination of the chocolates, despite the fewer processing steps and few ingredients used in bean-to-bar manufacturing process compared to the industrial one. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the content of trace elements (As, Cd, Co, Cu, Hg, Pb, Se) in bean-to-bar chocolates and traceable cocoa beans from Brazil and Ecuador. METHODS: Bean-to-bar chocolate samples were acquired in Brazil (n=65) and Ecuador (n=10), considering the main products available: white, milk, semisweet and dark chocolate. Cocoa samples from dedicated farms (n=23) were analyzed for trace elements and inorganic contaminants regulated by Brazil and European agencies. Samples were mineralized using acid digestion (nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide) in a closed microwave-assisted system. Quantification of trace elements was performed using Inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) and Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP OES) in optimized conditions. The analytical control was performed with certified reference materials (ERM BD512 - Dark Chocolate, Tort-2 and Tort-3 - Lobster Hepatopancreas and SRM 1547 - Peach leaves) and recoveries ranged between 84% and 105% for all elements. RESULTS: The trace element levels in the bean-to-bar chocolates were (mg/kg): As (<0.022-0.023), Cd (<0.002-0.74), Cu (0.11-21.2), Co (<0.003-1.88), Hg (<0.010-<0.010), Pb (<0.007-0.22), and Se (<0.029-0.35). The exposure assessment from inorganic contaminants in chocolates revealed up to 93% of provisional tolerable monthly intake (PTMI) for Cd and 123% of tolerable upper intake level (UL) for Co for children. Inorganic contaminants were also analyzed in cocoa beans from dedicated farms and Cd and Pb levels were found above the thresholds established by Brazil health agency. CONCLUSION: The results observed for both bean-to-bar chocolates and raw materials (cocoa beans from dedicated farms) indicated a need for monitoring these trace elements.

Do roquefort francês ao canastra brasileiro: a aplicação de tratados, acordos e normas internacionais como método de embasamento da qualidade e segurança de queijos produzidos com saberes-fazeres tradicionais / From the French Roquefort to the Brazilian Canastra: the application of international treaties, agreements, and norms as a method to base the quality and safety of cheese produced with traditional know-how

Resumo Os queijos roquefort e canastra são produtos de origem animal com reconhecimento de identificação geográfica, fabricados com leite cru por meio de modos de produção centenários. Para proteção da identidade e qualidade únicas de produtos como esses, tratados e acordos foram celebrados na comunidade internacional. Ao mesmo tempo, há um debate quanto à segurança sanitária deles devido à utilização de leite sem processamento térmico, o que gera barreiras à sua comercialização, existindo normas sanitárias internacionais internalizadas na legislação dos países signatários que devem ser aplicadas à produção tradicional, mesmo que às vezes com adaptações. Este trabalho teve por objetivo promover uma revisão não sistemática ao analisar o conteúdo de tratados, acordos e normas internacionais, comerciais e sanitárias, além das legislações brasileira, francesa e da União Europeia, a fim de verificar a robustez dos processos de regulação previstos. Concluiu-se que os documentos levantados têm potencial abrangente para a proteção qualitativa e sanitária dos produtos elencados, ficando a concretização dessas garantias a cargo da aplicabilidade da teoria nos processos de fabricação, registro, fiscalização e inspeção dos países, não menosprezando a necessidade de alerta para grupos vulneráveis da população sobre o consumo desses produtos.

Abstract Roquefort and Canastra cheese are products of animal origin with Geographical Identification recognition. They are made with raw milk in a centuries-old traditional production. To protect the unique identity and quality of products such as these, treaties and agreements have been passed in the international community. At the same time, a debate revolves around food safety due to the use of milk without heat treatment, which creates barriers to commercialization. Thus, international health standards, internalized in the legislation of the signatory countries, must be applied to traditional production, sometimes with adaptations. This study aimed to promote a non-systematic review, analyzing the content of commercial and health international treaties, agreements, and norms, and the Brazilian and French/European Union legislation, to evaluate the robustness of the foreseen regulation processes. It concluded that the surveyed documents have a comprehensive potential for the qualitative and sanitary protection of the products by implementing guarantees that are conditioned to the applicability of theory to practice in manufacturing, registering, and inspecting production in the evaluated countries and considering the need of consumption alerts for vulnerable population groups.

Development of a predictive model for the growth of Staphylococcus aureus in costeño chesee covered with active film / Desarrollo de modelo predictivo para el crecimiento de Staphylococcus aureus en queso costeño cubierto con película activa

ABSTRACT Staphylococcus aureus is a foodborne bacterium frequently isolated from cheeses, and it is responsible for causing food poisoning. The purpose of this study was to develop a secondary model to assess the growth of S. aureus in costeño cheese packaged with an active film. Costeño cheese samples were inoculated with S. aureus and covered with an active film made from an aqueous extract of Schinopsis balansae. Subsequently, the cheese samples were stored at temperatures of 6, 12, 18, and 21 °C. The Huang model was applied to the experimental data of S. aureus to determine growth parameters. The maximum growth rate (µmax) was then used as a function of temperature to create the secondary model using a polynomial equation. The results indicate that the application of the active film of S. aureus had a significant influence on growth parameters of S. aureus such as µmax, lag-phase (λ), and maximum cell population (Ymax) in Costeño cheese. The validation process included measuring the indices: accuracy factor (Af), bias factor (Bf), and root mean square error (RMSE). The secondary model exhibited Af and Bf factors close to one, suggesting that the polynomial models are viable to predict S. aureus growth in cheese packaged with active film, considering temperature and storage time.

RESUMEN Staphylococcus aureus es una bacteria de origen alimentario aislada frecuentemente de quesos responsables de causar intoxicaciones alimentarias. El objetivo de este estudio fue construir un modelo secundario para evaluar el crecimiento de S. aureus en queso costeño, empacado con película activa. Las muestras de queso costeño se inocularon con S. aureus y se cubrieron con la película activa, elaborada con extracto acuoso de Schinopsis balansae. Luego, las muestras de queso se almacenaron a 6, 12, 18 y 21 °C. El modelo de Huang fue ajustado a los datos experimentales de S. aureus, para obtener parámetros de crecimiento. Después, se usó la tasa de crecimiento máxima (µmáx) en función de la temperatura para construir el modelo secundario, usando una ecuación polinomial. La aplicación de película activa de S. balansae tuvo una influencia significativa en los parámetros de crecimiento de S. aureus, como la tasa de crecimiento máxima (μmax), la fase de latencia (λ) y la población celular máxima (Ymax), en el queso costeño. El proceso de validación se realizó midiendo los índices: factor de exactitud (Af), factor de sesgo (Bf) y error cuadrático medio (ECM). El modelo secundario tenía factores Af y Bf cercanos a uno, lo que indica que los modelos obtenidos son viables para predecir el crecimiento de S. aureus en queso envasado con película activa, tomando en consideración la temperatura y el tiempo de almacenamiento.

Wheat craft beer made from AFB1-contaminated wheat malt contains detectable mycotoxins, retains quality attributes, but differs in some fermentation metabolites.

Levels of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) were measured during the production of wheat craft beer made with wheat malt contaminated with AFB1 (1.23 µg/kg). A wheat craft beer made with non-contaminated wheat malt was produced for comparison purposes. AFB1 was measured after mashing (malt after the mashing process), and in spent grain (spent grains are filtered to collect the wort - remaining sugar-rich liquid), sweet wort, green beer, spent yeast, and in beer. Physicochemical parameters (pH, titratable acidity, color parameters, total soluble solids), sugars, organic acids, alcohols, and phenolics were evaluated after mashing, and in sweet wort, green beer, and beer samples. Density and yeast counts were determined over 120 h of sweet wort fermentation every 24 h. The AFB1 levels in the final beer were 0.22 µg/L, while the spent grains and spent yeasts contained 0.71 ± 0.17 and 0.11 ± 0.03 µg/kg of AFB1, respectively. AFB1 contamination did not influence the final product's physicochemical parameters, density during fermentation, fructose, or glycerol content. Higher yeast counts were observed during the first 48 h of non-contaminated wheat craft beer fermentation, with higher ethanol, citric acid, and propionic acid contents and lower glucose, malic acid, and lactic acid contents compared with beer contaminated with AFB1. Non-contaminated wheat craft beer also had higher concentrations of gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, catechin, procyanidin A2, and procyanidin B1. AFB1 contamination of wheat malt may not affect basic quality parameters in wheat craft beer but can influence the final product's organic acid and phenolic contents. Our findings show that if wheat craft beer is made with contaminated malt, AFB1 can remain in the final product and may pose a risk to consumers.

Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in the lower limbs among artisanal fisherwomen / shellfish gatherers of Brazil / Prevalência de distúrbios musculoesqueléticos nos membros inferiores de pescadoras artesanais/marisqueiras do Brasil

Introduction: Small-scale fishing is responsible for at least 40% of the fish consumed in the world. In Brazil, the worker in this sector is the artisanal fisherman, who accounts for one in every 200 Brazilians. Artisanal fishing is part of the informal economy; therefore, the pathologies that affect these fishermen are invisible in the country's official statistics. Musculoskeletal disorders represent a major socioeconomic and public health problem, but their prevalence is little known among non-formal workers. Objective: to estimate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the lower limbs and to verify the associated factors among artisanal fishermen/ fisherwomen from Saubara, Bahia, Brazil. Methodology: a cross-sectional study, using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), the Brazilian version of the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) and a questionnaire about physical demands, were used to collect information in a random sample of artisanal fishermen/shellfish gatherers, in 2013. Results: the prevalence of MSDs in lower limbs in the sample was 65.5% (n=137). The prevalence of MSDs in the thigh/knee segment, leg and ankle/foot were 48.7% (n=92), 47.7% (n=95) and 38.1% (n=72), respectively. There was also a high frequency of obesity, poor education, low wages, early age at onset of labor, and excessive workload. Factors such as age, smoking, physical demands, working time, absence of breaks and having had a previous job were associated with MSDs in the lower limbs. Conclusion: the high prevalence of MSDs in lower limbs in female artisanal fishermen indicates the need to develop strategies for prevention, diagnosis and reporting of these diseases.

Introdução: a pesca em pequena escala é responsável por pelo menos 40% do pescado consumido no mundo e, no Brasil, o trabalhador desse setor é o pescador artesanal, que contabiliza um a cada 200 brasileiros. Por se tratar de uma atividade da economia informal, as patologias que afetam esses pescadores são praticamente invisíveis nas estatísticas oficiais do país. Nesse contexto, os distúrbios musculoesqueléticos representam um grande problema socioeconômico e de saúde pública, mas sua prevalência é pouco conhecida entre trabalhadores não formais. Objetivo: estimar a prevalência de distúrbios musculoesqueléticos nos membros inferiores e fatores associados, em pescadores artesanais/marisqueiras de Saubara, Bahia, Brasil. Metodologia: trata-se de um estudo transversal, utilizando o Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, a versão brasileira do Job Content Questionnaire e um questionário sobre demandas físicas, para a coleta de informações em uma amostra aleatória de pescadores artesanais/marisqueiras, ocorrida em 2013. Resultados: a prevalência de distúrbios musculoesqueléticos em membros inferiores na amostra foi de 65,5% (n=137); a prevalência no segmento coxa/joelho, perna e tornozelo/pé foi de 48,7% (n=92), 47,7% (n=95) e 38,1% (n=72), respectivamente. Observaram-se também alta frequência de obesidade, baixa escolaridade, baixos salários, idade precoce para o início do trabalho e carga horária excessiva. Fatores como idade, tabagismo, demandas físicas, tempo de trabalho, ausência de pausas e trabalho anterior, estavam associados aos referidos distúrbios. Conclusão: A alta prevalência de distúrbios musculoesqueléticos dos membros inferiores em pescadoras artesanais indica a necessidade de desenvolver estratégias de prevenção, diagnóstico e notificação dessas doenças

Social wellbeing, values, and identity among Caiçara small-scale fishers in southeastern Brazil.

Although much in the lives of members of the Caiçara small-scale fishing communities of Lázaro and Saco da Ribeira in Ubatuba, southeastern Brazil would suggest hardship, that population expresses a surprising degree of satisfaction with life. In this paper, we use a social wellbeing lens as applied through an ethnographic, mixed methods approach to reflect on this overall sense that lives rooted in small-scale fishing are well worth living despite their many challenges. We see the classic maritime anthropology theme of identity at the heart of meaning and life satisfaction. Identity provides core aspects of how people engage with their realities and anchors values that are reference points in work and social relations. With reference to the relational nuances revealed by the social wellbeing perspective, however, we show that Caiçara and small-scale fishing identities are not monolithic, but reflect gender and other social positions, and personal and familial experiences. These experiences include grappling with the complex effects of economic, social, political, and environmental changes. We conclude by arguing that fisheries policy that seeks to prioritize human wellbeing would benefit by adopting a social wellbeing perspective. Fisheries policy could thereby take into account identity, values, and relational elements of social life that give meaning and a sense of belonging to small-scale fishers, while also recognizing the cross-cutting and often contradictory variations in human experience that arise from social and economic differences. This social fabric of small-scale fishers' lives shapes their intentions and actions and is thus a necessary complication to the practice of fisheries management that its proponents need to consider.