Household-level risk factors for water contamination and antimicrobial resistance in drinking water among households with children under 5 in rural San Marcos, Cajamarca, Peru.

Household water contamination at point of use depends on human, animal and environmental factors embodying all aspects of a One Health approach. This study investigated the association between household factors, the presence of thermotolerant coliform, and the presence of antibiotic resistant bacteria in drinking water among 314 households with children under 5 in Cajamarca, Peru. This study analysed data from a baseline sampling of a randomized controlled trial, including household surveys covering household water management and factors such as household animals, as well as microbiological data from samples collected from drinking water. Data were analysed using generalized linear models. Drinking water samples collected from narrow-mouthed containers were less likely to be contaminated than samples collected from the faucet (OR = 0.55, p = 0.030) or wide mouthed containers. The presence of thermotolerant coliform was associated with owning farm birds, which increased the proportion of contamination from 42.2% to 59.1% (OR = 1.98, p = 0.017) and with animal waste observed in the kitchen area, which increased the prevalence of contamination from 51.4% to 65.6% (OR = 1.80, p = 0.024). Resistance to any antibiotic was higher among pig owners at 60%, relative to non-pig owners at 36.4% (OR = 1.97, p = 0.012) as well as households with free-roaming animals in the kitchen area at 59.6% compared to households without free-roaming animals at 39.7% (OR = 2.24, p = 0.035). Recent child antibiotic use increased the prevalence of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole resistance among E. coli isolates to 22.3% relative to 16.7% (OR = 3.00, p = 0.037). Overall, these findings suggest that water storage in a secure container to protect from in-home contamination is likely to be important in providing safe drinking water at point of use. In addition, transmission of thermotolerant coliform and AMR between domestic animals and human drinking water supplies is likely. Further research should explore transmission pathways and methods to support safe drinking water access in multi-species households.

Microbiological quality of the water in collection areas and the tissue of Mytella falcata-Cananéia (SP, Brazil).

Changes in fauna and abiotic factors in estuaries are a consequence of their exploitation; thus, bivalve mollusks, as they filter, are widely used as environmental bioindicators. The aim of this study was to analyze the existence of seasonal variation in the concentration of total coliforms (TC) and thermotolerant coliforms (Ct), in addition to correlating the data obtained with the salinity and temperature in collection areas of Mytella falcata and the soft tissue cultivated in the Estuarine Complex of Cananéia. Two biweekly samples of water and tissue were taken, for 12 consecutive months, in nine cultivation areas of M. falcata. The analysis of the water samples showed that the Fisheries Institute, Mosquiteiro, and Itapitangui have high TC densities, with respective annual averages of 772.22, 592.67, and 563.75 most probable number (MPN).100 ml-1 . The highest concentrations of TC and Ct occurred in the summer, in most areas. There was a decrease in both TC and Ct with increasing salinity. However, there was an increase in Ct with increasing temperature. The soft tissue showed TC densities from 9 to 26 MPN.100 ml-1 and Ct densities from 6 to 14 MPN.100 ml-1 , displaying the highest counts in the summer. Places where coliforms were found in high concentrations could indicate contamination, because Ct do not support higher salinities for a long time. PRACTITIONER POINTS: The general mean was 77.64 (total coliforms) and 39.35 (thermotolerant) MPN.100 ml-1 . Annual average (thermotolerant) exceeded the permitted Brazilian limit in five points. Higher concentrations of total and thermotolerant coliforms occurred in the summer. In mollusk's tissue, concentrations of thermotolerant were 6.30 to 26.16 MPN.100 g-1 . Coliforms' MPN varied with increasing salinity and temperature.

Water quality in microbasins and springs of the mineral water region of Minas Gerais State, Brazil.

Anthropic activities performed in a river basin, especially those that promote changes in the soil surface, have great effect on the quality of the waters in the basin. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate water quality by applying the Water Quality Index (WQI) in springs and watercourses located in an area with different land use and occupation characteristics, as well as to compare the analyzed variables with the standards established for class 2 of the National Environmental Council (CONAMA, for its acronym in Portuguese) Resolution No. 357/2005. Seven sampling points located in the rural area of the municipality of Jacutinga, Minas Gerais State (MG), were monitored. The water samples were collected from October 2018 to July 2019. Comparison with the resolution showed that the quality condition was lower than the standard established for class 2 in most campaigns conducted. Regarding the mean WQI, the water quality at points S1, WC1, WC2, and WC3 was classified as "average," while the water quality at points S2, S3, and S4 was classified as "good." There was seasonal variation in the WQI only at point WC1. Overall, thermotolerant coliforms (TC), nitrate, and phosphorus are the main factors deteriorating water quality, and it may be directly related to the agricultural activities practiced in the monitored areas.

Loads of Coliforms and Fecal Coliforms and Characterization of Thermotolerant Escherichia coli in Fresh Raw Milk Cheese.

The aim of this study was to assess the hygienic status of raw milk cheese and determine the trends of virulence and antimicrobial resistance in thermotolerant Escherichia coli. Two hundred samples of karish, a popular Egyptian fresh raw milk cheese, were analyzed for coliforms and fecal coliforms using a standard most probable number (MPN) technique. Overall, 85% of samples were unsuitable for consumption, as they exceeded Egyptian standards for coliforms (10 MPN/g), and 65% of samples exhibited coliforms at 44.5 °C. Of 150 recovered thermotolerant strains, 140 (93.3%) were identified as E. coli. Importantly, one Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) strain carrying a striking virulence pattern, stx1-, stx2+, eae-, was detected. Eleven strains (7.8%, 11/140) showed resistance to third-generation cephalosporins. Antibiotic resistance genes included blaSHV, blaCTX-M, qnrS, tet(A), and tet(B), which were present in 4.3%, 2.8%, 0.71%, 2.1%, and 0.71% of isolates, respectively. In conclusion, this study indicated that hygienic-sanitary failures occurred throughout the production process of most retail karish cheese. Furthermore, our findings emphasize the need for adopting third-generation cephalosporin-resistant E. coli as an indicator for monitoring antimicrobial resistance in raw milk cheese to identify the potential public health burden associated with its consumption.

Potable water quality assessment of traditionally used springs in a hilly town of Bhaderwah, Jammu and Kashmir, India.

The quality of spring water and its suitability for human consumption is determined by examining its physicochemical and microbiological characteristics. Preliminary investigations were conducted to determine the potability of seven traditionally used springs in the highly populated hill town of Bhaderwah in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The water analysis was performed for various physico-chemical and microbial parameters during April 2019-March 2020. Water temperature, TDS, EC, pH, DO, free CO2, total alkalinity, total hardness, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, CO32-, HCOֿ3, Cl‾, NOֿ3, PO43-, SO42-, total coliforms, and thermotolerant coliforms were all measured. Eleven physical and chemical characteristics were used to generate the Water Quality Index. The Piper diagram demonstrated the predominance of Ca2+-HCOֿ3 water types, whereas the Schoeller diagram indicated that all springs had a similar lithological origin. The chemical composition of springs tested met the required criteria for drinking water quality. The microbiological indicators, on the other hand, did not satisfy the criteria except for Eidgah spring, which lacked thermotolerant coliforms. Our results on spring water potability indicate that the town's most dependable springs are susceptible to anthropogenic contamination and therefore need treatment prior to use. Apart from frequent monitoring, the responsible municipal corporation is expected to develop comprehensive plans to rehabilitate and revitalise these vulnerable drinking water sources.

Microbiological evaluation of pasty and soft ice cream / Avaliação microbiológica de sorvetes pastosos e expressos / Evaluación microbiológica de helados pastosos y suaves

Ice cream is susceptible to contamination by handling and bad hygiene conditions during both the storage process and the fractioning for sale, and once contaminated, it can cause diseases. The purpose of this survey was to evaluate the microbiological quality of ice cream sold in bulk, of pasty and soft types, offered for consuming. Thirty samples of pasty ice cream sold in bulk, and thirty samples of soft ice cream were analyzed through the counting of thermotolerant coliforms, coagulase-positive Staphylococcus spp., and searching for the presence of Salmonella spp. During the study, a total of ten (33%) samples of pasty ice cream and five (16%) samples of soft ice cream were found to be beyond the limits established by the Brazilian law. Salmonella spp. was found in four samples (6.7%). These results are an alert for the need of greater attention to the microbiological quality of ice cream in order to ensure the safety of its consumers.(AU)

Os sorvetes são suscetíveis à contaminação pela manipulação e más condições higiênicas durante o processamento, armazenamento e do fracionamento para venda, uma vez contaminados podem causar doenças. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a qualidade microbiológica de sorvetes, vendidos a granel, pastosos e expressos, oferecidos para consumo. Trinta amostras de sorvete pastoso, vendido a granel, e trinta amostras de sorvete expresso foram analisadas realizando-se contagem de coliformes termotolerantes, Staphylococcus spp. coagulase-positiva e pesquisando-se a presença de Salmonella spp. Foram detectadas dez (33%) amostras de sorvete pastoso e cinco (16%) amostras de sorvete expresso fora dos limites estabelecidos pela legislação brasileira. Salmonella spp. foi encontrado em quatro amostras (6,7%). Esses resultados alertam para a necessidade de uma maior atenção à qualidade microbiológica dos sorvetes, a fim de garantir a segurança do consumidor.(AU)

Los helados son susceptibles a la contaminación por manipulación y malas condiciones higiénicas durante el procesamiento, almacenamiento y fraccionamiento para venta, una vez contaminados pueden causar enfermedades. El objetivo de este estudio ha sido evaluar la calidad microbiológica de helados vendidos a granel, pastosos y suaves, ofrecidos para el consumo. Se analizaron treinta muestras de helados pastosos vendidos a granel, y treinta muestras de helados suaves, realizándose el conteo de coliformes termotolerantes, Staphylococcus spp. coagulase positiva e investigándose la presencia de Salmonella spp. Se detectaron diez (33%) muestras de helado pastoso y cinco (16%) muestras de helado blando fuera de los límites establecidos por la legislación brasileña. Salmonella spp. se encontró en cuatro muestras (6,7%). Esos resultados destacan la necesidad de una mayor atención a la calidad microbiológica de los helados, con el fin de garantizar la seguridad del consumidor.(AU)

Qualidade microbiológica da água e dos mexilhões Perna perna (Linnaeus, 1758) cultivados em Piúma, Espírito Santo, Brasil / Microbiological quality of water and Perna perna (Linnaeus, 1758) mussels cultivated in Piúma, Espírito Santo, Brazil

RESUMO Este estudo objetivou verificar a qualidade microbiológica da água e dos mexilhões cultivados pela Associação dos Maricultores de Piúma (AMPI), Espírito Santo, Brasil. Foram realizadas sete coletas de água e mexilhões, mensalmente, entre outubro de 2016 e maio de 2017. Os mexilhões foram coletados nos long lines da AMPI, e em cada mês foram coletados 40 mexilhões Perna perna e 100 mL de água do local. O material coletado foi destinado ao laboratório para a realização das análises microbiológicas em duplicata, número mais provável de coliformes totais (CT) e termotolerantes (Ctt), presença ou ausência de Salmonella sp e número de unidades formadoras de colônias de Staphylococcus aureus. Os resultados mostraram que o número de Ctt nas amostras de água no mês de janeiro estavam acima do permitido pela Resolução n° 357 do Conselho Nacional do Meio Ambiente (CONAMA). Já os níveis de Ctt e Staphylococcus aureus na carne dos mexilhões mostraram-se dentro do limite aceitável pela RDC n° 12 da Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA). Entretanto, foram encontradas bactérias com características do gênero Salmonella sp nos meses de dezembro e março nos mexilhões, impossibilitando sua comercialização e seu consumo. Durante esses meses, a cidade tem alto fluxo de turistas. Por fim, recomenda-se a realização das análises microbiológicas continuamente, principalmente no período do verão, época que tem grande fluxo de turistas no município de Piúma e que registrou presença de Salmonella na carne dos mexilhões e níveis de Ctt na água acima do permitido pelas legislações vigentes.

ABSTRACT This study aimed to verify the microbiological quality of water and mussels cultivated by the Piúma Farmers Association (Associação dos Maricultores de Piúma — AMPI), Espírito Santo, Brazil. Seven samples of water and mussels were collected monthly from October 2016 to May 2017. The mussels were collected from the long lines of the AMPI, and in each month 40 mussels Perna perna and 100 mL of water were sampled from the site. The collected material was sent to the laboratory for duplicate microbiological analysis, Most Probable Number of Total (CT) and Thermotolerant (Ctt) coliforms, presence or absence of Salmonella sp and number of Staphylococcus aureus colony forming units. The results showed that the number of Ctt in the water samples in January was higher than that allowed by Resolution 357 of the National Environment Council (Conselho Nacional do Meio Ambiente — CONAMA). The levels of Ctt and Staphylococcus aureus in mussel meat were within the acceptable range by the Brazilian National Environment Council (Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária — ANVISA) Resolution RDC No. 12. However, colonies with characteristics of Salmonella sp were found in December and March in the mussels, making it impossible to sell and consume. This period coincides with a high flow of tourists in the municipality. Finally, it is recommended to perform microbiological analyzes continuously, especially in the summer, where there are a lot of tourists in the city of Piúma, period that showed the presence of Salmonella in the meat of mussels and Ctt levels in water above the allowed current legislation.

Microbiological status of drinking water sources and its relationship with human health in Solan, India.

In Solan district, the developmental activities associated with chemical based farming, rapid urbanization, and rampant industrialization have led to many diarrhoeal, gastroenteritis, and hepatitis disease outbreaks. This has necessitated for microbiological assessment of indicator organisms, the thermotolerant coliforms, in drinking water sources, and their relationship with diarrhoeal disease. All the 49 Public Health Institutes (PHIs) of the district were categorized into very low, low, moderate, and high disease burden regions by stratification method. For drinking water, 55.5, 16.5, and 17% people preferred springs, borewells, and hand-pump respectively. These sources inventoried by Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice survey in one of very low and seven of high disease burden regions, and were analyzed by multiple tube fermentation technique. A cross-sectional survey of 200 children was undertaken for diarrhoeal disease estimation. Parwanoo, an industrial and Kurgal, a non industrial region witnessed highest (30.20) and lowest (4.40) Most Probable Number (MPN) per 100 ml water of thermotolerant coliforms, respectively. Thermotolerant coliforms were also observed significantly more (16.77 MPN/100 ml water) in monsoon than in post monsoon season (9.04 MPN per 100 ml water). The thermotolerant coliform Escherichia coli was recovered from six and three water sources respectively during monsoon and post monsoon. A strong correlation (r = 0.78) existed between the diarrhoeal disease occurrence and the concentration of thermotolerant coliforms in monsoon whereas it was moderate (r = 0.61) in post monsoon. The study indicated more contamination of water sources due to industrial activities which further got aggravated during the rainy season of the region.

Assessment of water quality using principal component analysis: a case study of the Marrecas stream basin in Brazil.

Monitoring water quality is a fundamental process to ensure proper anthropogenic usage and environmental protection of this resource. This study collected monthly measurements of 9 parameters (pH, Temperature, BOD, Total Solids, Thermotolerant Coliforms, Dissolved Oxygen, Total Nitrogen and Total Phosphorus) in 5 sampling stations along the Marrecas water stream, during a 1-year period. Temporal and seasonal variations were analyzed and interpreted for each element, explaining how specific geographical and anthropogenic factors affected the water body. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to evaluate each element's correlation and to reduce the number of parameters, easing the assessment of water quality for each location. Results were followed by the creation of an improved index for the region, which could better estimate the quality of water, only considering 4 of the original parameters. It was also recognized that each water body possesses several subtleties that impact on how its water quality should be measured and indexed into a single value, which validates the case for the creation of regional WQI's.

Tryptophan-like fluorescence as a high-level screening tool for detecting microbial contamination in drinking water.

Regular monitoring of drinking water quality is vital to identify contamination of potable water supplies. Testing for microbial contamination is important to prevent transmission of waterborne disease, but establishing and maintaining a water quality monitoring programme requires sustained labour, consumables and resources. In low resource settings such as developing countries, this can prove difficult, but measuring microbial contamination is listed as a requirement of reaching the UN's Sustainable Development Goal 6 for water and sanitation. A nine-month water quality monitoring programme was conducted in rural Malawi to assess the suitability of tryptophan-like fluorescence (TLF), an emerging method for rapidly detecting microbial contamination, as a drinking water quality monitoring tool. TLF data was compared with thermotolerant coliforms (TTCs, E. coli) and inorganic hydrochemical parameters. A large (n = 235) temporal dataset was collected from five groundwater drinking water sources, with samples collected once or twice weekly depending on the season. The results show that TLF can indicate a broader contamination risk but is not as sensitive to short term variability when compared to other faecal indicators. This is likely due to a broad association of TLF with elevated DOC concentrations from a range of different sources. Elevated TLF may indicate preferential conditions for the persistence of TTCs and/or E. coli, but not necessarily a public health risk from microbial contamination. TLF is therefore a more precautionary risk indicator than microbial culturing techniques and could prove useful as a high-level screening tool for initial risk assessment. For widespread use of TLF to be successful, standardisation of TLF values associated with different levels of risk is required, however, this study highlights the difficulties of equating TLF thresholds to TTCs or E. coli data because of the influence of DOC/HLF on the TLF signal.

Qualidade das águas e análise de metais em folhas de mangue na APA Tinharé-Boipeba (BA) / Water quality and analysis of metals in mangrove leaves in the APA Tinharé-Boipeba (BA)

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar as águas superficiais e os níveis foliares dos elementos-traço (Cu, Zn, Cd e Pb) da Avicennia schaueriana na área de proteção ambiental (APA) Tinharé-Boipeba, litoral sul da Bahia, com ênfase na relação entre a qualidade ambiental e o gerenciamento costeiro. Mensuraram-se in situ variáveis físico-químicas nas águas superficiais, e tomaram-se alíquotas para análises microbiológicas. Também foram coletadas folhas de árvores de mangue em nove estações amostrais. Realizou-se a leitura dos elementos-traço por espectrometria de absorção atômica com chama (F-AAS). As análises físico-químicas e microbiológicas das águas superficiais, ainda que preliminares, indicaram perda de qualidade e desafios ao saneamento, os quais merecem a atenção de autoridades sanitárias ou de saúde pública e consulta à comunidade para elaboração de soluções técnicas compatíveis com os usos da natureza e modos de vida tradicionais na APA. Os níveis foliares dos metais foram normais e não tóxicos, sendo menores do que em áreas costeiras impactadas. Os bosques de mangue encontram-se em bom estado de conservação e servem de área de referência, recomendando-se o monitoramento dos elementos-traço nas folhas ou sedimentos de mangue e qualidade da água. Esta pesquisa tem relevância à conservação dos manguezais, aos usos culturais da natureza e ao gerenciamento costeiro.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to investigate the surface waters and leaf levels of trace elements (Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb) of the Avicennia schaueriana in the Tinharé-Boipeba Environmental Protection Area (APA), South Coast of Bahia, with emphasis to the relationship between environmental quality and coastal management. Physical-chemical variables were measured in situ in surface waters and aliquots were taken for microbiological analysis. Also, leaves of mangrove trees were collected at nine sampling stations. The trace element reading was performed by F-AAS. Physical-chemical and microbiological analyzes of surface water, although preliminary, indicated that there is a loss of quality and challenges to sanitation, which deserve the attention of sanitary authorities, and of public health, and consultation with the community to elaborate technical solutions compatible with the uses of nature and traditional lifestyles in APA. Leaf metal levels were normal and nontoxic, being lower than in impacted coastal areas. Mangrove forests are in good state of conservation and serve as a reference area, recommending the monitoring of trace elements in mangrove leaves or sediments and water quality. This research has relevance to the conservation of mangroves, cultural uses of nature and coastal management.

Antimicrobial potential of spray drying encapsulated thyme (Thymus vulgaris) essential oil on the conservation of hamburger-like meat products.

Synthetic preservatives can have harmful effects on the body, so plant essential oils appear to be an attractive natural alternative. However, the use of essential oils is limited due to the low stability and possible negative effects on the sensory properties of food. Oil encapsulation was suggested as a way to overcome these drawbacks. The objective of this study was to encapsulate thyme essential oil and to evaluate its antioxidant and antimicrobial potential in vitro and in situ in of hamburger-like meat products. The casein-maltodextrin capsules produced by spray-drying were assessed for encapsulation efficiency, thermal stability, chemical compounds and morphology. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH, hydroxyl and nitric oxide methods, while antimicrobial activity was evaluated in vitro against four bacteria and in situ in hamburger-like products. The capsule showed high encapsulation efficiency and thermal stability, and spherical and irregular morphology. The casein-maltodextrin encapsulated essential oil showed antioxidant and antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella Typhimurium tested in vitro and against thermotolerants coliforms and Escherichia coli in situ, showing potential for application as a natural preservative in food.

Determinação de bactérias do grupo dos coliformes no tecido mole de Mytella guyanensis extraídas em Cananéia/SP, Brasil / Detecting bacteria of the coliform group in the soft tissue of Mytella guyanensis extracted in Cananéia/SP, Brazil

Esta pesquisa teve por objetivo avaliar a qualidade microbiológica de amostras da água e do tecido de Mytella guyanensis (Mollusca: Bivalva) espécie de relevante interesse comercial e que faz parte direta da renda e alimentação das comunidades tradicionais em regiões litorâneas. Este estudo foi realizado em duas comunidades do Estuário de Cananeia conhecidos como Retiro e Itanhoapina. Durante o período de 2017, onde a espécie é coletada para consumo humano, as amostras de água e do bivalve foram coletadas nas localidades a fim de determinar as concentrações de coliformes totais e termotolerantes. As Amostras de água e de M. guyanensis foram analisadas para determinar o Número Mais Provável de Coliformes (NMP), baseado na Técnica de Tubo Múltiplo. Os resultados das analises, demonstraram baixas concentrações de coliformes nas amostras de água, tendo ocorrido resultado semelhante para as amostras de tecidos dos indivíduos coletados. A análise da água apresentou média geométrica de 34,81 coliformes totais e 20,70 MPN 100 mL-1 de coliformes termotolerantes. As médias de coliformes nos tecidos moles de M. guyanensis foram de 190 MPN g-1 para coliformes totais e 174 MPN g-1 para coliformes termotolerantes. As concentrações de coliformes no tecido dos espécimes coletados, apresentaram correlação positiva com a temperatura e negativa com a salinidade. Houve diferenças significativas entre a sazonalidade em relação à concentração de coliformes totais e termotolerantes no tecido. O verão período de chuvas, apresentou a maior média sazonal de coliformes em M. guyanensis. Todas os valores obtidos para NMP de coliformes estiveram abaixo do limite estabelecido pela legislação.

This study aimed to evaluate the microbiological quality of water and tissue samples of Mytella guyanensis (Mollusk: Bivalve), a species of relevant commercial interest and is a direct part of the income and food of traditional communities in coastal regions. This study was carried out in two communities in the Cananeia Estuary known as Retiro and Itanhoapina. During the period of 2017, where the species is collected for human consumption, water and bivalve samples were collected in the localities in order to determine the concentrations of total and thermotolerant coliforms. The samples of water and M. guyanensis were analyzed to determine the Most Probable Number (MPN) of Coliforms, based on the Multiple Tube Technique. The results of the analyses showed low concentrations of coliforms in the water samples, with a similar result for the tissue samples of the individuals collected. The water analysis showed a geometric mean of 34.81 total coliforms and 20.70 MPN 100 mL-1 of thermotolerant coliforms. The averages of coliforms in the soft tissues of M. guyanensis were 190 MPN g -1 for total coliforms and 174 MPN g -1 for thermotolerant coliforms. The concentrations of coliforms in the tissue of the collected specimens showed a positive correlation with temperature and a negative correlation with salinity. There were significant differences between seasonality in relation to the concentration of total and thermotolerant coliforms in the tissue. The summer rainy season showed the highest seasonal average of coliforms in M. guyanensis. All values obtained for MPN of coliforms were below the limit established by the legislation.

[Effects of Different Levels of Irrigation with Reclaimed Water on Soil Enzyme Activity and Distribution of Thermotolerant Coliforms].

This study aimed to discern the effect of different levels of irrigation with reclaimed water on soil enzyme activities and on the distribution of thermotolerant coliforms. The effects of two irrigation water qualities (reclaimed water and tap water) and two irrigation levels (full irrigation and insufficient irrigation) on soil enzyme activity and distribution of thermotolerant coliforms were studied through indoor soil column irrigation. Results indicated that:① Reclaimed water irrigation increased soil urease and invertase activity compared with tap water under the same irrigation conditions. Compared with insufficient irrigation with reclaimed water, full irrigation with reclaimed water significantly increased soil invertase activity and deep soil catalase activity. ② At the same irrigation level, the number of thermotolerant coliforms in soil significantly increased with reclaimed water irrigation. The number of thermotolerant coliforms in soil under full irrigation with reclaimed water was significantly higher than with insufficient irrigation using reclaimed water. The number of thermotolerant coliforms in surface soil of the four irrigated treatments was significantly higher than in the deep soil layer, and with progression of irrigation, the number of thermotolerant coliforms in the 0-60 cm soil layer decreased. ③ There was a significant positive correlation between the quantity of thermotolerant coliforms and the activity of soil urease and invertase, and between the quantity of thermotolerant coliforms and the activity of soil catalase. Reclaimed water therefore promoted enzyme activity that can promote transformation of C and N in soil. Reasonable irrigation with reclaimed water can therefore effectively control the number of thermotolerant coliforms in soil.

An integrated appraisement of multiple faecal indicator bacteria and sterols in the detection of sewage contamination in subtropical tidal creeks.

The quality of water bodies has been regulated by national environmental agencies and based on faecal indicator bacteria, such as thermotolerant coliforms Escherichia coli and Enterococcus sp. Additionally, faecal sterols (mainly coprostanol) have been used to corroborate sewage discharge in marine environments. In this study, faecal material input was evaluated in two sampling campaigns in transects of two tidal creeks using bacterial and chemical indicators to both compare and establish the water quality in a South Atlantic subtropical estuary. The Itiberê tidal creek (S1) was classified as "contaminated" by faecal material, while the Peças tidal creek (S2) presented variable water quality according to the sampling period and sewage indicators considered in this evaluation. Then, the integrated application of chemical and bacterial indicators was applied for tidal creeks with different sewage contamination levels and under distinct environmental conditions and confirmed that Enterococcus sp. and coprostanol are the most suitable for estuarine environments.

Frequency of Enteroparasites and Bacteria in the Leafy Vegetables Sold in Brazilian Public Wholesale Markets.

The consumption of raw vegetables is related to health benefits. However, these foods might be source of foodborne diseases. The objective of the present study was to perform a microbiological and parasitological evaluation of the leafy vegetables commercially sold in five regions of Brazil at public wholesale markets. The 12 types of leafy vegetables (144 samples) were curly lettuce, looseleaf lettuce, red lettuce, chives, coriander, kale, basil, arugula, parsley, iceberg lettuce, chicory, and bean sprouts. The prevalences of total coliforms (88 to 100%) and thermotolerant coliforms (37 to 100%) were high, but Salmonella was not detected in any of the analyzed samples. All open markets sold vegetables contaminated with enteroparasites, mainly Entamoeba sp., Balantidium coli, Strongyloides sp., Ascaris sp., Enterobius vermicularis, and Ancylostomidae. Contamination was detected in all the regions (north, northeast, central west, southeast, and south) and types of vegetables, with higher prevalences in the northeast region, mainly in basil, lettuce, and chives. Contamination of vegetables by potentially pathogenic microorganisms is a national problem, and the distribution centers should improve quality control of these commercial vegetables. Considering the high frequency of enteroparasites and bacteria and the potential risk of disease transmitted by vegetables, we suggest greater enforcement of the sanitary surveillance of food offered to the public.

Análise microbiológica de fast foods comercializados por ambulantes no centro da cidade de Natal, RN / Microbiological analysis of fast foods marketed by street vendors in the city center of Natal, RN

[{"text": "O hábito de realizar refeições fora\r\ndo domicílio, expõe os consumidores\r\nao risco de contraírem doenças\r\nveiculadas por alimentos; tendo em\r\nvista tal situação, o presente estudo\r\nteve como objetivo desenvolver uma\r\nanálise microbiológica dos fast foods\r\nmais consumidos. Foram selecionados\r\ncinco amostras de cada alimento\r\ntotalizando 25, dentre estes estão coxinha,\r\ncachorro-quente, batata-frita,\r\npastel de forno e espetinho de carne,\r\ntodos estes alimentos colhidos em\r\nembalagens esterilizadas e encaminhadas\r\npara o laboratório de microbiologia\r\nda Universidade Potiguar,\r\nonde foram realizadas análises microbiológicas\r\npara Staphylococcus\r\ncoagulase positiva, coliformes totais\r\ne termotolerantes, e Salmonella sp.\r\nA metodologia empregada seguiu os\r\npadrões microbiológicos recomendados\r\npela resolução RDC nº 12 da\r\nAgência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária\r\nde acordo com as normas da\r\nAmerican Public Health Association.\r\nOs resultados obtidos mostraram que\r\n80% das coxinhas, 40% dos pastéis\r\nde forno, 60% das batatas-fritas e\r\n60% de cachorros-quentes, com exceção\r\ndo espetinho de carne, apresentaram\r\ncoliformes totais; quanto à\r\ncontagem de Staphylococcus aureus\r\ntodos superaram o limite máximo\r\ndeterminado pela legislação e todas\r\nas amostras apresentaram resultados\r\nnegativos para a pesquisa de Salmonella\r\nsp. Dessa forma, conclui-se que\r\nhá necessidade de aperfeiçoamento\r\nnos cuidados e nas condições de produção,\r\narmazenamento e comercialização\r\ndos alimentos analisados, bem\r\ncomo, há necessidade de inspeção\r\neficaz por parte dos órgãos de fiscalização.(AU)", "_i": "pt"}]

Microbiological quality and safety assessment in the production of moderate and high humidity cheeses / Qualidade microbiológica e avaliação da segurança na produção de queijos de média e alta umidade

ABSTRACT: Moderate and high humidity cheeses are described as important vehicles of pathogens in many foodborne diseases outbreaks. Microbial contamination can occur in raw material or in the different steps of the product processing due to inadequate hygiene practices. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the microbiological quality and safety in the production of moderate and high humidity cheese. Samples from raw milk, handlers' hands surface, final product were collected in three cheese manufacturing plants located in southern Brazil, with different levels of sanitary control. Effectiveness of milk pasteurization was also evaluated. Thermotolerant coliforms, coagulase-positive staphylococci (CPS), Salmonella spp., and Listeria monocytogenes were evaluated. Raw milk samples showed the highest contamination levels, with enumeration of 1.1x105 most probable number (MPN) mL-1 for thermotolerant coliforms, 4x105 colony-forming units (CFU) mL-1 for CPS and presence of Salmonella spp. CPS were also reported in one sample of handler's hands surface. However, only one sample of the final product was out of Brazilian regulatory standards, exceeding the limit allowed for CPS. Milk pasteurization process used in cheese preparation was effective, regardless the level of sanitary control of the industries. Results highlighted the need for better hygiene practices, in obtaining the raw milk and in the handling during the cheese manufacturing steps.

RESUMO: Os queijos com média e alta umidade são alimentos prontos para o consumo, que têm sido descritos como veiculadores de patógenos em diversos surtos de doenças transmitidas por alimentos. A contaminação microbiana pode ter origem na matéria prima, ou ocorrer durante as etapas de elaboração do produto, através de práticas inadequadas de higiene. Dessa forma, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a qualidade e a segurança microbiológica na produção de queijos de média umidade. Amostras da matéria prima, dos manipuladores e do produto final foram coletadas em três laticínios situados na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul, com diferentes níveis de inspeção sanitária. A eficiência da pasteurização do leite também foi avaliada. Coliformes termotolerantes, estafilococos coagulase-positivos (ECP), Salmonella spp. e Listeria monocytogenes foram avaliados. As amostras de leite cru foram as que apresentaram os maiores níveis de contaminação, com enumeração de 1,1x105 número mais provável (NMP) mL-1 para coliformes termotolerantes, 4x105 unidades formadoras de colônia (UFC) mL-1 para ECP e a presença de Salmonella spp.. Contudo, apenas uma amostra de produto final estava em desacordo com o padrão regulamentar vigente, excedendo o limite permitido para ECP. A pasteurização do leite utilizado no preparo dos queijos foi eficiente em todos os laticínios, independentemente do nível de inspeção sanitária dos estabelecimentos. No entanto, houve contaminação pré e pós-pasteurização, demonstrando a necessidade de melhores práticas higiênicas, tanto na obtenção da matéria-prima, quanto na manipulação durante as diversas etapas de fabricação dos queijos.

Avaliação microbiológica das mãos de manipuladores em restaurantes comerciais e institucionais da cidade de Salvador, BA / Microbiological evaluation of the hands of manipulators in commercial and institutional restaurants in the city of Salvador, BA

Trata-se de um estudo transversal, com o objetivo de realizar a avaliação microbiológica das mãos de manipuladores em restaurantes comerciais e institucionais da cidade de Salvador/ BA, através de pesquisa de Staphylococcus aureus e coliformes termotolerantes. O período da coleta dos dados ocorreu entre agosto e novembro de 2016. A população estudada foi constituída de 62,5% (n=15) manipuladores de restaurantes institucionais e 37,5% (n=9) restaurantes de comerciais, sendo 75% (n=18) de manipuladores do preparo e 25% (n=6) manipuladores da distribuição. Os restaurantes institucionais apresentaram maior percentual de contaminação (73,4%) por S. aureus que os comerciais (33,3%). Para o grupo de coliformes termotolerantes, as amostras dos dois segmentos apresentaram- se 100% dentro do valor aceitável. Os resultados para os restaurantes institucionais demonstraram maiores índices de contaminação, dessa forma, é de extrema importância que as instituições invistam em programas de capacitação, higiene pessoal, manipulação higiênica e conscientização dos manipuladores, visando oferecer uma alimentação segura.(AU)

Virulence and antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli in the beef jerky production line.

Intense manipulation during beef jerky production increases the possibility of contamination with pathogenic microorganisms. This study evaluated the contamination by thermotolerant coliforms, Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp., on processing surfaces and raw materials during beef jerky production, as well as in the final product. Thermotolerant coliforms were found on all surfaces tested and in the raw material. Escherichia coli was identified in 6.7% of the surface samples, while Salmonella spp. was found in 3.3% of the surface samples and 8.6% of raw material samples. Virulence genes were detected in Salmonella spp. isolates. One Salmonella spp. isolate was resistant to sulfonamide, while one E. coli isolate was multiresistant, including the presence of resistance genes sul2, strA, strB, tetA and tetB. The presence of coliforms demonstrates failings in hygienic-sanitary procedures. The presence of pathogenic microorganisms causing foodborne diseases in the production line indicates persistent contamination in the production plant. Although the drying process applied to beef jerky should guarantee the safety of the final product, the presence of multiresistant pathogenic microorganisms, presenting virulence genes, should be a matter of concern. Because beef jerky is a ready-to-eat product, a failure in the production process may cause such microorganisms to pose a public health risk.