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Purpose Periprosthetic joint infections induced by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) pose a major socioeconomic burden. Given the fact that MRSA carriers are at high risk for developing periprosthetic infections regardless of the administration of eradication treatment pre-operatively, the need for developing new prevention modalities is high. Methods The antibacterial and antibiofilm properties of vancomycin, Al2O3 nanowires, and TiO2 nanoparticles were evaluated in vitro using MIC and MBIC assays. MRSA biofilms were grown on titanium disks simulating orthopedic implants, and the infection prevention potential of vancomycin-, Al2O3 nanowire-, and TiO2 nanoparticle-supplemented Resomer® coating was evaluated against biofilm controls using the XTT reduction proliferation assay. Results Among the tested modalities, high- and low-dose vancomycin-loaded Resomer® coating yielded the most satisfactory metalwork protection against MRSA (median absorbance was 0.1705; [IQR = 0.1745] vs control absorbance 0.42 [IQR = 0.07]; p = 0.016; biofilm reduction was 100%; and 0.209 [IQR = 0.1295] vs control 0.42 [IQR = 0.07]; p p Conclusions We advocate that apart from the well-established preventative measures for MRSA carriers, loading implants with bioresorbable Resomer® vancomycin-supplemented coating may decrease the incidence of early post-op surgical site infections with titanium implants. Of note, the payoff between localized toxicity and antibiofilm efficacy should be considered when loading polymers with highly concentrated antimicrobial agents.

Early failure of silicone voice prostheses resulting from fungal colonization and biofilm formation poses a major concern in modern ear nose throat surgery. Therefore, developing new infection prevention techniques to prolong those implants’ survivorship is crucial. We designed an in vitro laboratory study to include nanomaterial-enhanced polymer coating with a plasma spraying technique against Candida albicans growth to address this issue. The anti-biofilm effects of high- and low-dose Al2O3 nanowire and TiO2 nanoparticle coatings were studied either alone or in conjunction with each other using checkerboard testing. It was demonstrated that both nanomaterials were capable of preventing fungal biofilm formation regardless of the anti-fungal agent concentration (median absorbance for high-dose Al2O3-enhanced polymer coating was 0.176 [IQR = 0.207] versus control absorbance of 0.805 [IQR = 0.381], p = 0.003 [98% biofilm reduction]; median absorbance for high-dose TiO2-enhanced polymer coating was 0.186 [IQR = 0.024] versus control absorbance of 0.766 [IQR = 0.458], p < 0.001 [93% biofilm reduction]). Furthermore, synergy was revealed when the Bliss model was applied. According to the findings of this work, it seems that simultaneous consideration of Al2O3 and TiO2 could further increase the existing antibiofilm potential of these nanomaterials and decrease the likelihood of localized toxicity.

Mastitis is a major cause of antimicrobial treatments either during lactation or at drying off. From a One Health perspective, there should be a balance between the risk of IMI that may impair cow health and welfare and the reduction of antimicrobial usage to decrease antimicrobial resistance, as may happen when applying selective dry-cow therapy. This reduction may be achieved by an early and accurate diagnosis followed by prudent and rationale therapeutical protocols. This study aims to assess the accuracy of PLCC (neutrophils + lymphocyte count/mL) in identifying cows at risk of having IMI due to major pathogens (S.aureus, Str.agalactiae, Str.uberis, and Str.dysgalactiae), and to simulate the impact of this early diagnosis on the potential number of treatments using a decision-tree model. The results of this study showed that PLCC had an overall accuracy of 77.6%. The results of the decision-tree model based on data from the 12 participating herds, with an overall prevalence of major pathogens of 1.5%, showed a potential decrease in the number of treatments of about 30% (from 3.4% to 2.5%) when PLCC in early lactation (days 5–16) was used to identify cows at risk for major pathogens compared with using SCC at the first milk test (days 17–43). The study confirmed that it is possible to improve animal health and reduce the risk of antimicrobial use through early IMI detection based on PLCC and applying a rationale and prudent antimicrobial protocol.

Streptococcus agalactiae is a well-known pathogen in humans and food-producing animals. Therefore, this bacterium is a paradigmatic example of a pathogen to be controlled by a One Health approach. Indeed, the zoonotic and reverse-zoonotic potential of the bacteria, the prevalence of Group B Streptococci (GBS) diseases in both human and animal domains, and the threatening global situation on GBS antibiotic resistance make these bacteria an important target for control programs. An epidemiological analysis using a public database containing sequences of S. agalactiae from all over the world was conducted to evaluate the frequency and evolution of antibiotic resistance genes in those isolates. The database we considered (NCBI pathogen detection isolate browser—NPDIB) is maintained on a voluntary basis. Therefore, it does not follow strict epidemiological criteria. However, it may be considered representative of the bacterial population related to human diseases. The results showed that the number of reported sequences increased largely in the last four years, and about 50% are of European origin. The frequency data and the cluster analysis showed that the AMR genes increased in frequency in recent years and suggest the importance of verifying the application of prudent protocols for antimicrobials in areas with an increasing frequency of GBS infections both in human and veterinary medicine.

Introduction: Biofilm formation on voice prostheses is the primary reason for their premature implant dysfunction. Multiple strategies have been proposed over the last decades to achieve inhibition of biofilm formation on these devices. The purpose of this study was to assess the results of the available in vitro biofilm inhibition modalities on silicone rubber voice prostheses. Methods: We conducted a systematic search in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases up to February 29, 2020. A total of 33 in vitro laboratory studies investigating the efficacy of different coating methods against Candida, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Lactobacilli, and Rothia biofilm growth on silicone rubber medical devices were included. Subgroup analysis linked to the type of prevention modality was carried out, and quality assessment was performed with the use of the modified CONSORT tool. Results: Data from 33 studies were included in qualitative analysis, of which 12 qualified for quantitative analysis. For yeast biofilm formation assessment, there was a statistically significant difference in favor of the intervention group (standardized mean difference [SMD] = −1.20; 95% confidence interval [CI] [−1.73, −0.66]; p < 0.0001). Subgroup analysis showed that combined methods (active and passive surface modification) are the most effective for biofilm inhibition in yeast (SMD = −2.53; 95% CI [−4.02, −1.03]; p = 0.00001). No statistically significant differences between intervention and control groups were shown for bacterial biofilm inhibition (SMD = −0.09; 95% CI [−0.68, 0.46]; p = 0.65), and the results from the subgroup analysis found no notable differences between the surface modification methods. After analyzing data on polymicrobial biofilms, a statistically significant difference in favor of prevention methods in comparison with the control group was detected (SMD = −2.59; 95% CI [−7.48, 2.31]; p = 0.30). Conclusions: The meta-analysis on biofilm inhibition demonstrated significant differences in favor of yeast biofilm inhibition compared to bacteria. A stronger inhibition with the application of passive or combined active and passive surface modification techniques was reported.

The conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) isomers, a group of naturally occurring isomers of the essential fatty acid (FA) linoleic acid, have received special attention in animal and human nutrition. Although they have long been used as dietary integrators in dairy cows, the effects of CLA isomers on bovine immune cells remain mostly undisclosed. The present study aimed to cover this gap and investigate the in vitro effects of CLA on inflammatory functions, including chemotaxis, phagocytosis, killing capability, and extracellular respiratory burst of purified bovine monocytes (CD14+). The apoptosis rate of monocytes was addressed as well. Once assessed, the effects of different concentrations (10, 50, 100, and 500 μM) of the 2 main CLA isomers, namely cis-9,trans-11 and trans-10,cis-12, the experiments were carried out using a concentration of 50 μM of the CLA isomers, both individually and in a mixture (50:50). The immunomodulatory activities of linoleic acid, an essential FA, and stearic acid, a saturated FA, were also investigated. Only the 50:50 CLA mixture was able to reduce monocyte apoptosis and to increase the extracellular respiratory burst during experimental proinflammatory conditions, as assessed by measuring production of reactive oxygen species. Linoleic acid and CLA had no effects on chemotaxis, phagocytosis, or killing capability. Remarkably, treatment of monocytes with stearic acid significantly reduced their chemotactic capability. The present results demonstrated that CLA isomers do have immunomodulatory effects on some functions of bovine monocytes, and that the mixture of the 2 CLA isomers is more effective than the CLA isomers individually.

Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone characterized by progressive inflammatory destruction and apposition of new bone that can spread via the hematogenous route (hematogenous osteomyelitis (HO)), contiguous spread (contiguous osteomyelitis (CO)), and direct inoculation (osteomyelitis associated with peripheral vascular insufficiency (PVI)). Given the significant financial burden posed by osteomyelitis patient management, the development of new preventive and treatment methods is warranted. To achieve this objective, implementing animal models (AMs) of infection such as rats, mice, rabbits, avians, dogs, sheep, goats, and pigs might be of the essence. This review provides a literature analysis of the AMs developed and used to study osteomyelitis. Historical relevance and clinical applicability were taken into account to choose the best AMs, and some study methods are briefly described. Furthermore, the most significant strengths and limitations of each species as AM are discussed, as no single model incorporates all features of osteomyelitis. HO's clinical manifestation results in extreme variability between patients due to multiple variables (e.g., age, sex, route of infection, anatomical location, and concomitant diseases) that could alter clinical studies. However, these variables can be controlled and tested through different animal models.

A series of vanillamides were easily synthesized, exploiting an acyltransferase from

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is the main aetiological agent of canine pyoderma. Whole genome sequencing is the most comprehensive way of obtaining relevant genomic information about micro-organisms.Oxford Nanopore technology enables quality sequencing and de novo assembly of the whole genome of S. pseudintermedius. Whole genome analysis of S. pseudintermedius may help to better understand the pathogenesis of canine pyodermas.Twenty-two strains of S. pseudintermedius isolated from the skin of five healthy dogs and 33 strains isolated from skin of 33 dogs with pyoderma were analysed. DNA was extracted and sequenced using Oxford Nanopore MinION, a new technology that delivers longer reads in a hand-held device. The pangenome was analysed and visualised with Anvi'o 6.1.Nanopore technology allowed the sequencing and de novo assembly of the genomes of 55 S. pseudintermedius strains isolated from healthy dogs and from dogs with pyoderma. The average genome size of S. pseudintermedius was 2.62 Mbp, with 48% being core genome. Pyoderma isolates contained a higher number of antimicrobial resistance genes, yet the total number of virulence factors genes did not change between isolates from healthy dogs and from dogs with pyoderma. Genomes of meticillin-resistant S. pseudintermedius (MRSP) strains were larger than those of meticillin-susceptible (MSSP) strains (2.80 Mbp versus 2.59 Mbp), as a consequence of a greater presence of antimicrobial resistance genes, phages and prophages.This technique allows much more precise and easier characterisation of canine S. pseudintermedius populations and may lead to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of canine pyodermas.Staphylococcus pseudintermedius est le principal agent étiologique de la pyodermite canine. Le séquençage du génome entier est le moyen le plus complet d'obtenir des informations génomiques pertinentes sur les micro-organismes. HYPOTHÈSE/OBJECTIFS: La technologie Oxford Nanopore permet un séquençage de qualité et un assemblage de novo de l'ensemble du génome de S. pseudintermedius. L'analyse du génome entier de S. pseudintermedius peut aider à mieux comprendre la pathogénie des pyodermites canines. MÉTHODES ET MATERIEL: Vingt-deux souches de S. pseudintermedius isolées de la peau de cinq chiens sains et 33 souches isolées de la peau de 33 chiens atteints de pyodermite ont été analysées. L'ADN a été extrait et séquencé à l'aide d'Oxford Nanopore MinION, une nouvelle technologie qui offre des lectures plus longues dans un appareil portatif. Le pangénome a été analysé et visualisé avec ANVI'O 6.1. RÉSULTATS: La technologie Nanopore a permis le séquençage et l'assemblage de novo des génomes de 55 souches de S. pseudintermedius isolées de chiens sains et de chiens atteints de pyodermite. La taille moyenne du génome de S. pseudintermedius était de 2,62 Mpb, dont 48 % étaient le génome central. Les isolats de pyodermite contenaient un nombre plus élevé de gènes de résistance aux antimicrobiens, mais le nombre total de gènes de facteurs de virulence n'a pas changé entre les isolats de chiens sains et de chiens atteints de pyodermite. Les génomes des souches de S. pseudintermedius résistantes à la méticilline (MRSP) étaient plus grands que ceux des souches sensibles à la méticilline (MSSP) (2,80 Mbp contre 2,59 Mbp), en raison d'une plus grande présence de gènes de résistance aux antimicrobiens, de phages et de prophages.Cette technique permet une caractérisation beaucoup plus précise et plus facile des populations canines de S. pseudintermedius et peut conduire à une meilleure compréhension de la pathogénie des pyodermites canines.INTRODUCCIÓN: Staphylococcus pseudintermedius es el principal agente etiológico de la pioderma canina. La secuenciación del genoma completo es la forma más completa de obtener información genómica relevante sobre microorganismos. HIPÓTESIS/OBJETIVOS: la tecnología Oxford Nanopore permite la secuenciación de calidad y el ensamblaje de novo de todo el genoma de S. pseudintermedius. El análisis del genoma completo de S. pseudintermedius puede ayudar a comprender mejor la patogenia de las piodermas caninas. MÉTODOS Y MATERIALES: Se analizaron veintidós cepas de S. pseudintermedius aisladas de la piel de cinco perros sanos y 33 cepas aisladas de la piel de 33 perros con pioderma. El DNA se extrajo y secuenció utilizando Oxford Nanopore MinION, una nueva tecnología que ofrece lecturas más largas en un dispositivo de mano. El pangenoma se analizó y visualizó con ANVI’O 6.1. RESULTADOS: la tecnología Nanopore permitió la secuenciación y el ensamblaje de novo de los genomas de 55 cepas de S. pseudintermedius aisladas de perros sanos y de perros con pioderma. El tamaño medio del genoma de S. pseudintermedius fue de 2,62 Mbp, con un 48% de genoma central. Los aislados de pioderma contenían un mayor número de genes de resistencia a los antimicrobianos, sin embargo, el número total de genes de factores de virulencia no cambió entre los aislados de perros sanos y los de perros con pioderma. Los genomas de las cepas de S. pseudintermedius resistentes a la meticilina (MRSP) fueron más grandes que los de las cepas sensibles a la meticilina (MSSP) (2,80 Mbp versus 2,59 Mbp), como consecuencia de una mayor presencia de genes de resistencia a los antimicrobianos, fagos y profagos. CONCLUSIONES E IMPORTANCIA CLÍNICA: esta técnica permite una caracterización mucho más precisa y sencilla de las poblaciones caninas de S. pseudintermedius y puede conducir a una mejor comprensión de la patogenia de las piodermas caninas.Staphylococcus pseudintermedius stellt die hauptsächliche ätiologische Ursache für die canine Pyodermie dar. Eine Gesamtgenomsequenzierung ist der umfassendste Weg, um relevante Genominformation über Mikroorganismen zu erhalten.Die Oxford Nanopore Technologie ermöglicht eine qualitative Sequenzierung und eine de novo Anordnung des Gesamtgenoms von S. pseudintermedius. Die Gesamtgenomsequenzierung von S. pseudintermedius könnte dabei helfen, die Pathogenese der caninen Pyodermie besser zu verstehen.Zweiundzwanzig Stämme von S. pseudintermedius, die von der Haut von fünf gesunden Hunden und 33 Stämme, die von 33 Hunden mit Pyodermie isoliert worden waren, wurden analysiert. DNA wurde extrahiert und mittels Oxford Nanopore MinION, einer neuen Technologie, die längere Sequenzen in einem Handgerät liefert, sequenziert. Das Pangenom wurde analysiert und mittels ANVI´O 6.1. analysiert.Die Nanopore Technologie ermöglichte eine Sequenzierung und de novo Anordnung der Genome von 55 S. pseudintermedius Stämmen, die von gesunden Hunden und von Hunden mit Pyodermie isoliert worden waren. Die durchschnittliche Genom Länge von S. pseudintermedius betrug 2,62 Mbp, wobei 48% davon das Hauptgenom ausmachte. Pyodermie Isolate beinhalteten eine größere Anzahl an antimikrobiellen Resistenzgenen; die Gesamtzahl der Virulenzfaktorgene unterschied sich allerdings nicht zwischen den Isolaten von gesunden Hunden und von Hunden mit Pyodermie. Genome von Methicillin-resistenten S. pseudintermedius (MRSP) Stämmen waren größer als jene der Methicillin-sensiblen (MSSP) Stämme (2,8 Mbp versus 2,59 Mbp), was eine Folge der vermehrten Präsenz von antimikrobiellen Resistenzgenen, Phagen und Prophagen war.Diese Technik erlaubt eine wesentlich präzisere und einfachere Charakterisierung der caninen S. pseudintermedius Populationen und könnte zu einem besseren Verstehen der Pathogenese der caninen Pyodermien führen.背景: Staphylococcus pseudintermediusは、犬の膿皮症の主な病因です。全ゲノムシーケンスは、微生物に関する関連するゲノム情報を取得するための最も包括的な方法です。 仮説/目的: Oxford Nanoporeテクノロジーにより、S。pseudintermediusの全ゲノムの高品質なシーケンスとdenovoアセンブリが可能になります。 S. pseudintermediusの全ゲノム解析は、犬の膿皮症の病因をよりよく理解するのに役立つ可能性があります。 方法と材料: 5匹の健康な犬の皮膚から分離されたS.pseudintermediusの22株と、膿皮症の33匹の犬の皮膚から分離された33株が分析されました。 DNAは、ハンドヘルドデバイスでより長い読み取りを実現する新しいテクノロジーであるOxford Nanopore MinIONを使用して抽出およびシーケンスされました。パンゲノムはANVI’O6.1で分析および視覚化されました。 結果: Nanoporeテクノロジーにより、健康な犬と膿皮症の犬から分離された55のS.pseudintermedius株のゲノムの配列決定とdenovoアセンブリが可能になりました。 S.pseudintermediusの平均ゲノムサイズは2.62Mbpで、48％がコアゲノムでした。膿皮症分離株は、より多くの抗菌薬耐性遺伝子を含んでいましたが、病原性因子遺伝子の総数は、健康な犬と膿皮症の犬からの分離株間で変化しませんでした。メチシリン耐性S.pseudintermedius（MRSP）株のゲノムは、抗菌剤耐性遺伝子、ファージ、およびプロファージの存在が大きい結果として、メチシリン感受性（MSSP）株のゲノムよりも大きかった（2.80Mbp対2.59Mbp）。 結論と臨床的重要性: この手法により、犬のS. pseudintermedius集団のより正確で簡単な特性評価が可能になり、犬の膿皮症の病因のより良い理解につながる可能性があります。.背景: 假中间型葡萄球菌是犬脓皮病的主要病原。全基因组测序是获得微生物相关基因组信息最全面的方式。 假设/目的: 纳米孔技术能够对假中间型葡萄球菌的全基因组进行质量测序和从头组装。对假中间型葡萄球菌进行全基因组分析可能有助于更好地了解犬脓皮病的发病机制。 方法和材料: 从5只健康犬皮肤中分离的22株，以及从33只脓皮病犬皮肤中分离的33株假中间型葡萄球菌，对其进行分析。使用纳米孔 MinION提取DNA并测序，这是一种手持设备，这种新技术可传递更长的测序片段。用ANVI'O 6.1分析全基因组并将其可视化。 结果: 从健康犬和脓皮病犬中分离的55株假中间型葡萄球菌，用纳米孔技术对其基因组进行测序和从头组装。假中间型葡萄球菌的平均基因组大小为2.62 Mbp，其中48%为核心基因组。脓皮病分离株含有较多数量的抗菌药物耐药基因，然而毒力因子基因的总数在健康犬和脓皮病犬的分离株之间没有变化。耐甲氧西林假中间型葡萄球菌(MRSP)菌株的基因组比甲氧西林敏感(MSSP)菌株的基因组大（2.80 Mbp与2.59 Mbp），这是由于存在更多抗菌药物耐药基因、噬菌体和前噬菌体。 结论和临床重要性: 该技术可更精确和更容易地表征犬假中间型葡萄球菌种群，并可能有助于更好地了解犬脓皮病的发病机制。.Staphylococcus pseudintermedius é o principal agente etiológico da piodermite canina. O sequenciamento completo do genoma é a forma mais aprofundada de se obter informações genômicas relevantes sobre microrganismos. HIPÓTESE/OBJETIVOS: A tecnologia de Oxford Nanopore permite o sequenciamento de boa qualidade e montagem “de novo” do genoma completo de S. pseudintermedius. A análise do genoma completo de S. pseudintermedius pode auxiliar na melhor compreensão da patogênese da piodermite canina. MÉTODOS E MATERIAIS: Vinte e duas cepas de S. pseudintermedius isoladas da pele de cinco cães saudáveis e 33 cepas isoladas da pele de 33 cães com piodermite foram analisadas. O DNA foi extraído e sequenciado utilizando Oxford Nanopore MinION, uma tecnologia nova que fornece leituras mais longas em um aparelho portátil. O pangenoma foi analisado e visualizado com ANVI’O 6.1.A tecnologia Nanopore permitiu o sequenciamento e a montagem “de novo” dos genomas de 55 cepas de S. pseudintermedius isoladas de cães saudáveis de cães com piodermite. A média do tamanho do genoma de S. pseudintermedius foi de 2,62 Mbp, sendo 48% de genoma base. Os isolados de piodermite continham um maior número de genes de resistência antimicrobiana, apesar de o número total de fatores de virulência não sofreu alteração entre os isolados de cães saudáveis e de cães com piodermite. Os genomas das cepas S. pseudintermedius resistentes à meticilina (MRSP) foram maiores que aqueles das cepas suscetíveis à meticilina (MSSP) (2,80 Mbp versus 2,59 Mbp), como consequência da maior presença de genes de resistência antimicrobiana, fagos e profagos. CONCLUSÕES E IMPORTÂNCIA CLÍNICA: A técnica testada permite uma caracterização muito mais simples e precisa das populações de S. pseudintermedius canino e pode levar ao melhor entendimento da patogênese da piodermite canina.

A collection of nature-inspired lipophilic phenolic esters have been prepared by an enzymatic synthesis under flow conditions, using the immobilized lipase B from Candida antarctica (Novozyme 435®) as a catalyst in cyclopentyl methyl ether (CPME), a non-conventional and green solvent. Their antimicrobial activity against four selected bacterial strains together with their efficiency as radical scavengers were evaluated. The obtained compounds were characterized by enhanced lipophilicity in comparison with the parent non-esterified compounds, which increased the possibility of their use as additives in the food industry.

The One Health approach emphasizes the importance of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as a major concern both in public health and in food animal production systems. As a general classification, E. coli can be distinguished based on the ability to cause infection of the gastrointestinal system (IPEC) or outside of it (ExPEC). Among the different pathogens, E. coli are becoming of great importance, and it has been suggested that ExPEC may harbor resistance genes that may be transferred to pathogenic or opportunistic bacteria. ExPEC strains are versatile bacteria that can cause urinary tract, bloodstream, prostate, and other infections at non-intestinal sites. In this context of rapidly increasing multidrug-resistance worldwide and a diminishingly effective antimicrobial arsenal to tackle resistant strains. ExPEC infections are now a serious public health threat worldwide. However, the clinical and economic impact of these infections and their optimal management are challenging, and consequently, there is an increasing awareness of the importance of ExPECs amongst healthcare professionals and the general public alike. This review aims to describe pathotype characteristics of ExPEC to increase our knowledge of these bacteria and, consequently, to increase our chances to control them and reduce the risk for AMR, following a One Health approach.

Although the impact of microbial infections on orthopedic clinical outcomes is well recognized, the influence of viral infections on the musculoskeletal system might have been underestimated.To systematically review the available evidence on risk factors and musculoskeletal manifestations following viral infections and to propose a pertinent classification scheme.We searched MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), the Reference Citation Analysis (RCA), and Scopus for completed studies published before January 30, 2021, to evaluate risk factors and bone and joint manifestations of viral infection in animal models and patient registries. Quality assessment was performed using SYRCLE's risk of bias tool for animal studies, Moga score for case series, Wylde score for registry studies, and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for case-control studies.Six human and four animal studies were eligible for inclusion in the qualitative synthesis. Hepatitis C virus was implicated in several peri- and post-operative complications in patients without cirrhosis after major orthopedic surgery. Herpes virus may affect the integrity of lumbar discs, whereas Ross River and Chikungunya viruses provoke viral arthritis and bone loss.Evidence of moderate strength suggested that viruses can cause moderate to severe arthritis and osteitis. Risk factors such as pre-existing rheumatologic disease contributed to higher disease severity and duration of symptoms. Therefore, based on our literature search, the proposed clinical and pathogenetic classification scheme is as follows: (1) Viral infections of bone or joint; (2) Active bone and joint inflammatory diseases secondary to viral infections in other organs or tissues; and (3) Viral infection as a risk factor for post-surgical bacterial infection.

Simple Summary Mastitis is a costly disease and needs to be identified as soon as possible to reduce the negative effect on milk quality and quantity and to maximize the chance of cure when an antimicrobial therapy is applied. Bacteriological diagnosis is expensive and not easily available in some areas, therefore approaches to reduce the number of samples to be taken, focusing the interest on cows with higher chances to have an intramammary infections are desirable. The results of our study based on a large database of quarter milk samples analyses including bacteriological analysis, total (SCC) and differential (DSCC) cell count in the first 5–30 days after calving suggest a new and sustainable approach. Indeed, a marker (PLCC) calculated by multiplying SCC and DSCC showed to have the lowest cost when applied to identify udder quarters at risk to have an intramammary infection due to major pathogens. Moreover, this approach as well as the one based on SCC became a benefit when the prevalence of these infections exceeds 10%, and it be of high interest, when selective dry cow therapy is applied, to improve animal health at the herd level. Abstract Milk differential somatic cells count (DSCC), made possible under field conditions by the recent availability of a high-throughput milk analyzer may represent an improvement in mastitis diagnosis. While an increasing number of studies reports data on DSCC on individual cow samples, very few concerns DSCC from quarter milk samples. This paper reports for the first time the results of a retrospective study aiming to assess the performance of total (SCC), DSCC, and a novel calculated marker (PLCC) measured on quarter milk samples as a method to identify cows at risk for intramammary infection (IMI) in the first 30 days after calving. Overall, 14,586 valid quarter milk samples (3658 cows) taken in the first 30 days of lactation were considered. Quarters with major pathogens (MP) IMI, as expected, showed significantly higher means for SCC, DSCC, and PLCC. The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the diagnosis based on different cut-offs calculated by ROC analysis are relatively close among DSCC, PLCC, and SCC (up to cut-off of 200,000 cells/mL). However, decision-tree analysis which includes the costs of analysis, but also the costs of the actions taken after test results showed as PLCC has the lowest cost among the three markers, and PLCC and SCC are cost effective when MP prevalence is higher than 6–10%. This diagnostic approach is of high interest particularly when selective dry cow therapy is applied to improve animal health at the herd level.

Probiotics are living microorganisms, which, upon oral ingestion, may prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) through the normalization of an unbalanced gastrointestinal flora. The objective of this study was to evaluate the benefits of a probiotic combination (Limosilactibacillus reuteri LRE02-DSM 23878 and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus LR04-DSM 16605) on the prevention of AAD in an outpatient pediatric setting. Questionnaires were delivered to pediatricians by each patient/parent during the visits after antibiotics and probiotics treatment to monitor physiological parameters. The primary outcome of both groups (probiotics and no probiotics treated) was the evaluation of the prevalence of AAD between the two groups. Evaluation of stool consistency using the Bristol Stool Scale (BSS) score was performed, as well as the evaluation of AAD duration, frequencies of daily evacuation, and the beginning of diarrhea and weight loss during AAD in both groups and related to antibiotic categories. Results indicated that probiotics, at the recommended dosage of 1.2 × 109 CFU (Colony Forming Unit) per day for 30 days, are associated with lower rates of AAD and a decreased number of days with diarrhea, independent of the type of antibiotic used. Moreover, the use of probiotics resulted in a normal stool consistency in a shorter time period, as evaluated by the BSS.

The gut microbiota is a complex and dynamic ecosystem with a strong influence on the host's health. Several factors can modify the gut's bacterial composition, often leading to the onset of intestinal dysbiosis. Therefore, it is essential not only to evaluate the quantitative bacterial changes occurring in the human microbiota but also to characterize relationships existing among all the microorganisms. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of bowel cleansing on the fecal microbiota network by highlighting differences between fecal microflora before and after colonoscopy, and luminal samples during colonoscopy. Fecal and luminal samples, previously analyzed by mean of Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) for their bacterial abundance, were further processed by a method based on Artificial Neural Network (ANN) architecture. The bowel lavage had a strong effect on the intestinal microbiota network, leading to significant changes in the distribution of different bacterial hubs potentially involved in the microbiota homeostasis. Furthermore, the fecal and luminal microbiota showed a different bacterial network, characterized by distinct microbial hubs. In particular, the latter seemed to be rich in potentially pathogenic bacteria which, in physiological conditions, are counteracted by fecal microorganisms.

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are promising alternatives to antibiotics. The aims of this study were to produce AgNPs using two biological methods and determine their antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius. AgNPs were biosynthesized from an infusion of Curcuma longa (turmeric) and the culture supernatant of E. coli. Characterization was achieved by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The antibacterial properties of NPs from C. longa (ClAgNPs) and E. coli (EcAgNPs), alone and in combination with carbenicillin and ampicillin, were investigated through the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion assay and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Dimensions of NPs ranged from 11.107 &plusmn, 2.705 nm (ClAgNPs) to 27.282 &plusmn, 2.68 nm (EcAgNPs). Kirby-Bauer and MIC assays showed great antibacterial abilities for both NPs alone and in combination with antibiotics. EcAgNPs alone showed the most powerful antibacterial activities, resulting in MIC values ranging from 0.438 &plusmn, 0.18 &micro, M (P. aeruginosa) to 3.75 &plusmn, 3.65 &micro, M (S. pseudintermedius) compared to those of ClAgNPs: 71.8 &plusmn, 0 &micro, M (P. aeruginosa) and 143.7 &plusmn, M (S. pseudintermedius). The antibiofilm abilities were strain-dependent, but no statistical differences were found between the two NPs. These results suggest the antibacterial potential of AgNPs for the treatment of infectious diseases.

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius represents one of the most frequently bacteria isolated on dog's skin and it was recently recognized as a zoonotic pathogen responsible for severe diseases also in humans. This study aimed to define the occurrence of canine methicillin-resistant and methicillin-susceptible S. pseudintermedius (MRSP and MSSP) strains and to compare their antimicrobial profiles. The study was carried out at veterinary microbiology laboratories of two different Italian veterinary teaching hospitals, Milan and Naples, from 2015 to 2017. The statistical comparison of the results revealed significant differences in MRSP occurrence (p-value = 0.0435) and MRSP and MSSP antibiotic resistance profiles. In Milan, MRSP strains displayed significantly higher antibiotic resistance percentages (p < 0.001) for some antibiotics, such as ceftriaxone and tobramycin, compared to those of Naples. Conversely, MSSP strains of Naples presented significantly higher rates (p < 0.001) of resistance to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, kanamycin, erythromycin, and tetracycline than to Milan isolates. In conclusion, the results highlighted relevant variances among region-specific antibiotic resistance profiles, probably due to different antimicrobial selection pressures. Therefore, this study stands out the need for continuous monitoring of both MRSP and MSSP linked to different geographical areas, also considering their impact and importance on animal and human health.

Mastitis is a complex and well-defined mammary gland pathology, and an emergency in bitches. In dogs, its prevalence is about 1% of all reported diseases and about 5.3% of all reproductive pathologies. Lactating bitches are naturally prone to developing mastitis since puppies can easily overstimulate the epidermal layer of nipples during feeding, facilitating bacterial colonization of the glands. This study aimed to describe the aerobic bacterial flora isolated from milk samples derived from a cohort of patients (n = 87) diagnosed with clinical mastitis (n = 29), subclinical mastitis (n = 17) and healthy mammary glands (n = 46). All of the patients underwent a gynecology consultation to diagnose mammary gland afflictions, physical examination results were coupled with traditional hematological findings. The milk samples were plated on specific microbiological media for bacterial isolation. Among the 162 milk samples analyzed, 93.2% (151/162) had a positive microbiological result, while 6.8% (11/162) were sterile. The bacteriological profile of the milk samples showed 47 different species. The most common bacterial families detected in healthy bitches and bitches with subclinical and clinical mastitis were the Staphylococcaceae, Enterobacteriaceae and Enterococcaceae families. The results indicated that half of the isolated bacteria are novel findings in dogs and that some of them are normal components of human milk.

The human skin microbiota is essential for maintaining homeostasis and ensuring barrier functions. Over the years, the characterization of its composition and taxonomic diversity has reached outstanding goals, with more than 10 million bacterial genes collected and cataloged. Nevertheless, the study of the skin microbiota presents specific challenges that need to be addressed in study design. Benchmarking procedures and reproducible and robust analysis workflows for increasing comparability among studies are required. For various reasons and because of specific technical problems, these issues have been investigated in gut microbiota studies, but they have been largely overlooked for skin microbiota. After a short description of the skin microbiota, the review tackles methodological aspects and their pitfalls, covering NGS approaches and high throughput culture-based techniques. Recent insights into the “core” and “transient” types of skin microbiota and how the manipulation of these communities can prevent or combat skin diseases are also covered. Finally, this review includes an overview of the main dermatological diseases, the changes in the microbiota composition associated with them, and the recommended skin sampling procedures. The last section focuses on topical and oral probiotics to improve and maintain skin health, considering their possible applications for skin diseases.

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is a commensal bacterium frequently isolated from canine skin and recognized as a zoonotic agent especially for dog-owners. This study focused on (a) the antibiotic-resistance phenotypes, (b) the ability to produce biofilm (slime), and (c) the dissemination of virulence factors in S. pseudintermedius strains. Seventy-three S. pseudintermedius strains were screened for antibiotic-resistance against 22 different molecules by means of Kirby-Bauer assay. The ability to produce biofilm was investigated using the microtiter plate assay (MtP) and the amplification of icaA and icaD genes. Virulence factors such as cytotoxins (lukI), enterotoxins (seC), and exfoliative toxins (siet, expA, and expB) were evaluated. The antibiotic-resistance profiles revealed 42/73 (57%) multi-drug resistant (MDR) strains and 31/73 (43%) not-MDR. All the MDR strains and 8/31 (27%) of not-MDR resulted in biofilm producers. Leukotoxin LukI was found in 70/73 (96%) of the isolates. Moreover, the enterotoxin gene seC was detected in 47/73 (64%) of the strains. All the isolates carried the siet gene, whereas expA and expB were found in 3/73 (4%) and 5/73 (7%), respectively. In conclusion, S. pseudintermedius should be considered a potential zoonotic and human agent able to carry different virulence determinants and capable of producing biofilm which facilitates horizontal gene transfer.

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is a commensal bacterium frequently isolated from canine skin and recognized as a zoonotic agent especially for dog-owners. This study focused on (a) the antibiotic-resistance phenotypes; (b) the ability to produce biofilm (slime); and (c) the dissemination of virulence factors in S. pseudintermedius strains. Seventy-three S. pseudintermedius strains were screened for antibiotic-resistance against 22 different molecules by means of Kirby-Bauer assay. The ability to produce biofilm was investigated using the microtiter plate assay (MtP) and the amplification of icaA and icaD genes. Virulence factors such as cytotoxins (lukI), enterotoxins (seC), and exfoliative toxins (siet, expA, and expB) were evaluated. The antibiotic-resistance profiles revealed 42/73 (57%) multi-drug resistant (MDR) strains and 31/73 (43%) not-MDR. All the MDR strains and 8/31 (27%) of not-MDR resulted in biofilm producers. Leukotoxin LukI was found in 70/73 (96%) of the isolates. Moreover, the enterotoxin gene seC was detected in 47/73 (64%) of the strains. All the isolates carried the siet gene, whereas expA and expB were found in 3/73 (4%) and 5/73 (7%), respectively. In conclusion, S. pseudintermedius should be considered a potential zoonotic and human agent able to carry different virulence determinants and capable of producing biofilm which facilitates horizontal gene transfer.

Introduction: Osteotomy of nasal bones in rhinoplasty is associated with postsurgical morbidities. Recent evidence has suggested that a surgical method applying piezoelectric ultrasound waves for nasal osteotomies in rhinoplasty reduces soft tissue damage and causes less postsurgical morbidities compared to conventional methods. The purpose of this study is to compare clinical outcomes of piezoelectric and conventional lateral nasal osteotomies in rhinoplasty. Methods: We searched PubMed, CENTRAL, and Web of Science up to 17 August 2019 for studies comparing postoperative outcomes of piezoelectric and conventional lateral osteotomies in rhinoplasty. We included studies comparing results of patients subjected to piezoelectric or conventional lateral nasal osteotomies in rhinoplasty. For outcomes, we considered postoperative pain, eyelid edema, periorbital ecchymosis, and intraoperative mucosal injury. Results: For eyelid edema, a statistically significant difference in favor of piezoelectric osteotomy was documented within the first 3 postoperative days (standardized mean difference [SMD] = –0.65; 95% CI = –1.18, –0.12, p = 0.02; I2 = 69%) and on postoperative day 7 (SMD = –0.69; 95% CI = –1.47, –0.09; p = 0.08; I2 = 85%). This was also the case for periorbital ecchymosis within the first 3 postoperative days (SMD = –0.85; 95% CI = –1.42, –0.28; p = 0.004; I2 = 72%) and on postoperative day 7 (SMD = –0.52; 95% CI = –0.79, –0.24; p = 0.0003; I2 = 71%). Intraoperative mucosal injury (OR = 0.06; 95% CI = 0.01, 0.53; p = 0.01; Ι2 = 0%) and postoperative pain (SMD = –0.99; 95% CI = –1.78, –0.11; p = 0.01; I2 = 49%) were also statistically lower during piezoelectric osteotomies. Conclusions: This study shows that lateral piezoelectric osteotomy in rhinoplasty decreases postoperative pain, edema, ecchymosis, and intraoperative mucosa injuries compared to the conventional osteotomy technique with a chisel. Piezoelectric osteotomies are especially associated with less postoperative edema and ecchymosis in osteotomies not executed under direct vision.

Staphylococcus aureus biofilm-related infections are of clinical concern due to the capability of bacterial colonies to adapt to a hostile environment. The present study investigated the capability of the acute phase protein alpha

Objective Postprandial distress syndrome (PDS) and epigastric pain syndrome (EPS) are the two main forms of functional dyspepsia (FD). Probiotics are a promising therapy for FD, but current data remains heterogeneous. This work aims to evaluate a probiotic combination of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus LR04 (DSM 16605), Lactiplantibacillus pentosus LPS01 (DSM 21980), Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LP01 (LMG P-21021), and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. delbruekii LDD01 (DMS 22106), alone or together with other pharmacological therapies, for clinical improvement of symptoms associated with FD. Methods Patients with FD were enrolled and divided into two groups: PDS and EPS. Probiotic alone or combined with prokinetics, antacids, or proton-pump-inhibitors were administered for 30 days. A progressive-score scale was used to evaluate symptoms in all patients at the beginning of the trial and at 15 days after the end of treatment. Results A cohort of 2676 patients were enrolled (1 357 with PDS; 1 319 with EPS). All patients showed significant improvements in dyspeptic symptoms following treatment. In patients with PDS, probiotic alone resulted in the lowest prevalence of symptoms following treatment, while patients with EPS showed no clear between-treatment differences. Conclusions Dyspeptic symptoms were reduced following treatment in all patients.

Essential oils (EOs) and honeybee products (e.g., honey and propolis) are natural mixtures of different volatile compounds that are frequently used in traditional medicine and for pathogen eradication. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial properties of tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) EO (TTEO), Rosmarinus officinalis EO (ROEO), manuka-based gel, and propolis against 23 strains of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (SP) isolated from canine pyoderma. Antimicrobial resistance screening was assessed using a panel of nine antimicrobial agents coupled with a PCR approach. An aromatogram was done for both EOs, using the disk diffusion method. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined for all the compounds. Among the 23 SP strains, 14 (60.9%) were multidrug-resistant (MDR), 11 strains (47.8%) were methicillin-resistant (MRSP), and 9 (39.1%) were non-MDR. The mean diameter of the inhibition zone for Melaleuca and Rosmarinus were 24.5 &plusmn, 8.8 mm and 15.2 &plusmn, 8.9 mm, respectively, resulting as statistically different (p = 0.0006). MIC values of TTEO and ROEO were similar (7.6 &plusmn, 3.2% and 8.9 &plusmn, 2.1%, respectively) and no statistical significances were found. Honeybee products showed lower MIC compared to those of EOs, 0.22 &plusmn, 0.1% for Manuka and 0.8 &plusmn, 0.5% for propolis. These findings reveal a significant antibacterial effect for all the tested products.