Search

AbstractThe environment has been damaged due to anthropogenic activities related to the production and consumption of cattle. The present study investigated the pollution potentials of slaughterhouse effluents on groundwater qualities in Ebonyi State Southeast Nigeria, with the specific objectives to determine the effect of slaughterhouse effluents on both microbiological, physicochemical and heavy metal parameters on the quality of groundwater. Eighty-four well water samples were taken in 2022 and 2023 from slaughterhouse locations, and a control location for the determination of physicochemical properties and microbiological contents using standard analytical methods. Datasets were analyzed using Fisher’s Significance Least Difference (F-LSD) at 0.05 probability level. The study recorded higher levels of physicochemical, BOD, COD, Salinity, bacterial and fungal counts in the slaughterhouses well waters when compared to the control well water. With the exception of chloride, ammonia, copper and electrical conductivity, all water parameters were significant in both years. The result of the study also demonstrated that, with the exception of ammonia, lead, biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, salinity, salmonella spp, shigella spp, E. coli, and other coliforms, the majority of the analysed parameters were within the World Health Organisation recommended standard. In addition, as compared to the first year of study, the well water parameters were generally higher in the second year. In order to prevent groundwater pollution, the present study suggests that slaughterhouse effluents be disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner through the segregation of waste materials to prevent groundwater pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Unsafe meat handling in butcher shops exacerbates microbial contamination, contributing to widespread food-related infections, particularly in developing countries like Ethiopia. In Ethiopia, microbial contamination in the meat supply chain is pervasive due to limited knowledge, inadequate hygiene practices, insufficient training, poor enforcement of food safety standards, and the absence of advanced diagnostic tools and regular microbial testing. This study aimed to assess the microbial load of meat, its contact surfaces, and meat handling practices of butcher shop workers in Hawassa city, Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to April 2023 among butcher shop workers in Hawassa city, Ethiopia. One hundred forty-four (144) swab samples were collected, and the microbial load was evaluated by serial dilution method and counted using standard procedures. A total of 52 workers were interviewed to assess meat handling practices. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze survey and laboratory data. Results: The findings of this study revealed that the levels of Total Plate Count, Enterobacteriaceae, and staphylococci from meat samples collected from the butchers were 6.14, 5.58, and 5.23, respectively. The levels of Total Plate Count, Enterobacteriaceae, and staphylococci in the swab samples collected from knives, chopping boards, and weighing boards were 5.66, 5.27, and 5.28; 5.61, 5.33, and 5.03; and 5.29, 4.97, and 4.91, respectively. In the butcher shops, 83% of the meat was exposed to flies without protection, and 64% of meat handling equipment was not disinfected. Conclusions: The Total Plate Count, Enterobacteriaceae and staphylococci levels in meat samples and swab samples collected from knives, chopping boards, and weighing boards were above acceptable levels. These findings suggest the presence of potential pathogenic microorganisms, likely due to poor personal hygiene of the workers, inadequate cleaning and sterilization in the butcher shops, and cross-contamination from sources, including paper money handled, and skin contact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanofertilizers release nutrients slowly and in a controlled manner, matching the plants' growth needs. By reducing the need for chemical inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides, nanotechnology contributes to more sustainable agricultural practices. The present study used nano-urea with Azotobacter on strawberry cv. 'Winter Dawn' under protected cultivation to evaluate its impact on soil fertility status and leaf nutrient content. Formulations as per the treatment requirements were sprayed onto the strawberry plants. The plants provided with nano-urea formulations exhibited enhanced levels of nitrogen (2.49%), phosphorus (0.37%), and potassium (2.60%) compared to the plants treated with conventional urea. Soil nutrient analysis showed enhanced levels of NPK in soil samples from traditional application treatments. A higher concentration of microorganisms in the soil was observed when urea was applied at the nano level. Nano-urea combined with Azotobacter can significantly impact the soil's NPK levels. This innovative blend enhances nutrient availability in the soil and promotes sustainable agricultural practices. By leveraging the nanotechnology-infused urea alongside the nitrogen-fixing process of Azotobacter bacteria, the soil experiences a synergistic boost in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content. This dynamic duo fosters a conducive environment for plant growth while minimizing nutrient leaching and environmental degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This was a prospective study to investigate the antimicrobial efficacy of a novel ophthalmic solution comprising ozonated sunflower oil in liposomes plus hypromellose in conjunction with liposomal foam (BlefOX), in patients undergoing intravitreal injection, in comparison to povidone iodine 5%. Methods: The study employed a paired-eye design with n = 195 patients and a total of n = 390 eyes divided into two groups. Conjunctival swabs were collected from both eyes of each patient at baseline (T0—3 days before the injection). The study group underwent home therapy, which included instilling two drops of an isotonic ophthalmic solution containing 0.5% ozonated sunflower oil in liposomes plus hypromellose (Ozodrop) four times daily and applying liposomal foam twice daily to the eye undergoing intravitreal injections. In contrast, the control group (contralateral eyes) received treatment with povidone iodine 5%. This treatment regimen was maintained for 3 days. At T1 (10 min before injection), all patients instilled one drop of a topical solution of povidone iodine 5% into the conjunctival sac of both eyes. After 30 seconds had elapsed, a conjunctival swab was obtained for each eye in both study groups. Results: The results, derived from conjunctival swabs, exhibited a significant reduction in the microbial load of the study group on both chocolate agar and blood agar (p ≤ 0.007). The study demonstrated that the combination of povidone iodine 5% + Ozodrop + BlefOX provides a greater reduction in microbial load than povidone iodine 5% alone on both chocolate agar (141 [72.31%] vs. 98 [50.26%], p < 0.0001) and blood agar (130 [66.67%] vs. 97 [49.74%], p = 0.0007). The combination of povidone iodine 5% + Ozodrop + BlefOX resulted in the killing of approximately 41% to 49% of bacteria compared to povidone iodine 5% alone on the chocolate agar and blood agar, respectively. Conclusions: Liposomal ozonated oil treatment, coupled with liposomal foam, in patients undergoing intravitreal injection led to a substantial reduction in conjunctival microbial load compared to eyes treated solely with povidone iodine 5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Access to safe water and sanitation is a critical global challenge, posing significant health risks worldwide due to waterborne diseases. This study investigates the efficacy of ultraviolet type C radiation as a disinfection method for improving water quality. The research elucidates UV-C's mechanism of action, highlighting its ability to disrupt DNA and RNA replication, thereby inactivating pathogens. Furthermore, the study analyses the influence of key factors on UV-C disinfection effectiveness, including water turbidity and the presence of dissolved organic matter, which can attenuate UV-C penetration and reduce treatment efficiency. The experimental results demonstrate a substantial reduction in microbial content following UV-C treatment. River water samples exhibited a 57.143% reduction in microbial load, while well water samples showed a 50% reduction. Notably, Escherichia coli (E. coli) concentrations decreased significantly, with an 83.33% reduction in well water and a 62.5% reduction in borehole water. This study makes a novel contribution to the understanding of UV-C disinfection by identifying the presence of resistant organisms, including Adenoviruses, Bacterial spores, and the Protozoan Acanthamoeba, in water samples. This finding expands the scope of UV-C research beyond easily culturable bacteria. To address this challenge, future investigations should explore synergistic disinfection strategies, such as combining UV-C treatment with advanced oxidation processes. Optimising UV-C system designs and developing robust, real-time monitoring systems capable of detecting and quantifying known and emerging UV-resistant pathogens are crucial for ensuring comprehensive water decontamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionGrape is a major horticultural crop with a high nutritional value in the world. The optimal geographic and climatic conditions in Iran have positioned it as one of the most important regions for grape cultivation in the world. Black rot, caused by Aspergillus niger, is a highly destructive fungal disease that affects the grapes by targeting wounded areas. It causes crushing of the grapes, the falling of berries, and reduces transportation and storage properties (Ponsone et al., 2011). Various methods, such as fumigating bunches with sulfur dioxide and storing them in a modified atmosphere, have been used to control fungal rot and prolong the shelf life of grapes. However, each method has its limitations. Grape fumigation with sulfur gas is harmful to human health (Duarte-Sierra et al., 2016) and the efficiency of modified atmospheric storage on rot control and maintaining the quality of grapes depends on the type of variety, storage temperature, and especially gas concentration (Himelrick, 2003).Given the lack of efficiency in traditional methods, it is imperative to introduce modern techniques that can effectively disinfect microorganisms. These advanced methods offer several advantages, including the preservation of crop quality, an increase in crop shelf life, the promotion of good health, and substantial economic benefits. A technique of this type includes using non-thermal (cold) plasma (NTP) technology to eliminate food microorganisms (Bourke et al., 2018). The effect of cold plasma at atmospheric pressure on the reduction of bacterial populations in food products such as lettuce, tomato, strawberry, and cherry tomato has been reported (Bermúdez-Aguirre et al., 2013; Pasquali et al., 2016; Ziuzina et al., 2014). Research has shown that cold plasma can effectively inactivate Aspergillus in various orchard and agricultural products (Butscher et al., 2016; Ghorashi et al., 2020; Selcuk et al., 2008). The effect of cold plasma on the quality characteristics of the product during the post-harvest period has also been investigated. Blueberries treated with cold plasma for less than 15 minutes showed remarkable results: after 10 days, the fruit exhibited reduced lipid peroxidation and darkening, with no impact on the total anthocyanin content, pH, or firmness of the product (Hu et al., 2021). In a study by Rana et al. (2020), it was found that subjecting strawberries to 15 minutes of cold plasma with packaging after 5 days of storage at 25°C had no significant impact on pH, TSS, and moisture content of the fruit.The review of the literature reveals the absence of research on fungal disease control and grape quality evaluation following the use of NTP. This study aims to investigate the efficiency of plasma treatment in reducing the infection with Aspergillus fungi, along with examining the physical, chemical, and mechanical properties of Fakhri grape.Materials and MethodsThis research was conducted as a completely randomized design in a factorial experiment at four plasma levels (0, 10, 20, and 40 s) and five storage periods (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 weeks) with three replications at 4°C. A plasma generator was first designed and manufactured in this study. A specifically designed and fabricated plasma application probe was also developed for grape berries. The individual grape berries were then sterilized with 1% sodium hypochlorite under a laminar hood for 2 minutes. Afterward, they were rinsed three times with sterile distilled water to remove any remaining disinfectant residue from their surfaces. Sterilized berries were immersed in Aspergillus spore suspension with 105 spores.ml-1 concentration. Finally, all samples were dried on paper filters and prepared for different plasma treatment durations (0, 10, 20, and 40 s). The treated samples were stored at 4°C, and the infection percentage and microbial load were measured on a weekly basis. To assess the preservation quality, chemical parameters such as pH, TSS, and TA, physical parameters (color change and weight loss), and mechanical properties were measured every week. Additionally, thermal imaging was performed weekly.Results and DiscussionPlasma application during storage significantly reduced the infection percentage and microbial load in Aspergillus-inoculated samples. At the end of the storage period, the infection percentage and microbial load in the 40-second plasma treatment were 5% and 2.5 CFU g-1 respectively, while in the control group, the infection percentage was 100% and the microbial load was 4 CFU g-1. At the end of the storage period, the lowest pH level in the plasma was observed for 40 s plasma. This could be attributed to effective contamination control, as fungal contamination leads to alkalization of the environment. The highest amount of TSS was also observed in control and 40 s plasma. But in the 10 and 20 s plasma treatment, the process of changes was gradual and not significant. The higher TSS level of control and 40 s plasma can be due to the weight loss caused by the spread of contamination and moisture leakage caused by damage to the tissue. This decrease in moisture leads to an apparent increase in the TSS index. Research has shown that plasma primarily affects the surface characteristics of products, and when applied with the appropriate voltage and duration, it does not alter the internal chemical properties (Hu et al., 2021). Over time, weight loss increased in all treatments. This increasing trend during the storage period is higher in control and 40 s plasma compared to 10 and 20 s plasma. Therefore, the weight loss in the control can be due to the spread of contamination and aging of the product over time. However, the weight loss in the 40-second plasma treatment can be due to the destruction of the fruit tissue caused by longer duration of the plasma application.In the current research, by increasing the duration of plasma application to 40 s, a significant decrease in L*, a*, and b* indices and an overall change in the color of the product was observed. Research shows that in blueberries, inappropriate duration of plasma treatment causes the loss of wax on the fruit surface and leads to darkening of the product (Hu et al., 2021). The highest and lowest changes in temperature drop were observed in the control treatment (5°C) and 10 and 20 s plasma (3 and 3.5°C, respectively). According to research, an increase in fungal contamination leads to a decrease in humidity, increases weight loss, and subsequently a decrease in product temperature. A decline in mechanical characteristics was noted for the control and plasma treated samples during the storage period. The lowest value for indicators was observed in the 40 s plasma treatment. However, no significant difference was observed in samples treated with plasma for less than 20 seconds compared to the control group up to the middle of the storage period. According to a report by Misra et al. (2014), plasma application can reduce tissue softness. Therefore, optimizing its plasma duration and intensity is very important (Pan et al., 2021). ConclusionOur experiments aimed to investigate the effect of NTP treatment on controlling Aspergillus infections while preserving the quality properties of Fakhri grapes. The obtained results are important for two main reasons. Firstly, an innovative probe was designed for plasma applications, specifically tailored to the shape and size of individual grapes in order to thoroughly cover them with plasma. Secondly, application of plasma was carried out for the first time and yielded valuable results, indicating that this technique can control fungal infections and preserve the chemical, physical, and mechanical properties of grapes.

Abstract Background Herbal medicines used for male sexual disorders are widespread across the globe and have been noted as likely candidates for adulteration. To assure access to safe and quality herbal products, this study aimed at sampling some herbal capsules indicated for male vitality for quality analytical checks. Methods Herbal capsules sampled from two regions were subjected to physicochemical assessment, using pharmacopeial and regulatory standards. Microbial quality analysis was also performed on the selected products. A validated HPLC method for simultaneous analysis of sildenafil citrate and tadalafil was used to detect and quantify the possible presence of phosphodiesterase inhibitors in the selected products. Results Out of a total of 57 herbal capsules, 19 were indicated for male sexual related illnesses of which only 8 fulfilled the inclusion criteria of being used exclusively for male vitality. The majority (62.5%) of the herbal products failed the weight uniformity test but all of them disintegrated within the acceptable limit of 30 min. The moisture and heavy metal contents were within limits of acceptability. Majority (87.5%) of the herbal products failed the test for the aerobic bacteria count; however, none of the isolated bacteria was pathogenic. Sildenafil citrate was detected in the majority (87.5%) of the herbal products in concentrations of 0.98–33.95 mg/g. Two products contained both sildenafil and tadalafil. High batch-to-batch variability was recorded in some physicochemical parameters and pharmaceutical adulterants. Conclusion High incidence of quality fails and adulteration of herbal capsules for sexual disorders observed means there is a real risk of unintended dosing with phosphodiesterase inhibitors. This represents a public health issue and necessitates tighter monitoring of production standards by the regulator.

Abstract Introduction This was a prospective study to investigate the antimicrobial efficacy of a novel ophthalmic solution comprising ozonated sunflower oil in liposomes plus hypromellose in conjunction with liposomal foam (BlefOX), in patients undergoing intravitreal injection, in comparison to povidone iodine 5%. Methods The study employed a paired-eye design with n = 195 patients and a total of n = 390 eyes divided into two groups. Conjunctival swabs were collected from both eyes of each patient at baseline (T0—3 days before the injection). The study group underwent home therapy, which included instilling two drops of an isotonic ophthalmic solution containing 0.5% ozonated sunflower oil in liposomes plus hypromellose (Ozodrop) four times daily and applying liposomal foam twice daily to the eye undergoing intravitreal injections. In contrast, the control group (contralateral eyes) received treatment with povidone iodine 5%. This treatment regimen was maintained for 3 days. At T1 (10 min before injection), all patients instilled one drop of a topical solution of povidone iodine 5% into the conjunctival sac of both eyes. After 30 seconds had elapsed, a conjunctival swab was obtained for each eye in both study groups. Results The results, derived from conjunctival swabs, exhibited a significant reduction in the microbial load of the study group on both chocolate agar and blood agar (p ≤ 0.007). The study demonstrated that the combination of povidone iodine 5% + Ozodrop + BlefOX provides a greater reduction in microbial load than povidone iodine 5% alone on both chocolate agar (141 [72.31%] vs. 98 [50.26%], p

Background: Herbal medicines used for male sexual disorders are widespread across the globe and have been noted as likely candidates for adulteration. To assure access to safe and quality herbal products, this study aimed at sampling some herbal capsules indicated for male vitality for quality analytical checks. Methods: Herbal capsules sampled from two regions were subjected to physicochemical assessment, using pharmacopeial and regulatory standards. Microbial quality analysis was also performed on the selected products. A validated HPLC method for simultaneous analysis of sildenafil citrate and tadalafil was used to detect and quantify the possible presence of phosphodiesterase inhibitors in the selected products. Results: Out of a total of 57 herbal capsules, 19 were indicated for male sexual related illnesses of which only 8 fulfilled the inclusion criteria of being used exclusively for male vitality. The majority (62.5%) of the herbal products failed the weight uniformity test but all of them disintegrated within the acceptable limit of 30 min. The moisture and heavy metal contents were within limits of acceptability. Majority (87.5%) of the herbal products failed the test for the aerobic bacteria count; however, none of the isolated bacteria was pathogenic. Sildenafil citrate was detected in the majority (87.5%) of the herbal products in concentrations of 0.98–33.95 mg/g. Two products contained both sildenafil and tadalafil. High batch-to-batch variability was recorded in some physicochemical parameters and pharmaceutical adulterants. Conclusion: High incidence of quality fails and adulteration of herbal capsules for sexual disorders observed means there is a real risk of unintended dosing with phosphodiesterase inhibitors. This represents a public health issue and necessitates tighter monitoring of production standards by the regulator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Grape is a major horticultural crop with a high nutritional value in the world. The optimal geographic and climatic conditions in Iran have positioned it as one of the most important regions for grape cultivation in the world. Black rot, caused by Aspergillus niger, is a highly destructive fungal disease that affects the grapes by targeting wounded areas. It causes crushing of the grapes, the falling of berries, and reduces transportation and storage properties (Ponsone et al., 2011). Various methods, such as fumigating bunches with sulfur dioxide and storing them in a modified atmosphere, have been used to control fungal rot and prolong the shelf life of grapes. However, each method has its limitations. Grape fumigation with sulfur gas is harmful to human health (Duarte-Sierra et al., 2016) and the efficiency of modified atmospheric storage on rot control and maintaining the quality of grapes depends on the type of variety, storage temperature, and especially gas concentration (Himelrick, 2003). Given the lack of efficiency in traditional methods, it is imperative to introduce modern techniques that can effectively disinfect microorganisms. These advanced methods offer several advantages, including the preservation of crop quality, an increase in crop shelf life, the promotion of good health, and substantial economic benefits. A technique of this type includes using non-thermal (cold) plasma (NTP) technology to eliminate food microorganisms (Bourke et al., 2018). The effect of cold plasma at atmospheric pressure on the reduction of bacterial populations in food products such as lettuce, tomato, strawberry, and cherry tomato has been reported (Bermúdez-Aguirre et al., 2013; Pasquali et al., 2016; Ziuzina et al., 2014). Research has shown that cold plasma can effectively inactivate Aspergillus in various orchard and agricultural products (Butscher et al., 2016; Ghorashi et al., 2020; Selcuk et al., 2008). The effect of cold plasma on the quality characteristics of the product during the post-harvest period has also been investigated. Blueberries treated with cold plasma for less than 15 minutes showed remarkable results: after 10 days, the fruit exhibited reduced lipid peroxidation and darkening, with no impact on the total anthocyanin content, pH, or firmness of the product (Hu et al., 2021). In a study by Rana et al. (2020), it was found that subjecting strawberries to 15 minutes of cold plasma with packaging after 5 days of storage at 25°C had no significant impact on pH, TSS, and moisture content of the fruit. The review of the literature reveals the absence of research on fungal disease control and grape quality evaluation following the use of NTP. This study aims to investigate the efficiency of plasma treatment in reducing the infection with Aspergillus fungi, along with examining the physical, chemical, and mechanical properties of Fakhri grape. Materials and Methods This research was conducted as a completely randomized design in a factorial experiment at four plasma levels (0, 10, 20, and 40 s) and five storage periods (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 weeks) with three replications at 4°C. A plasma generator was first designed and manufactured in this study. A specifically designed and fabricated plasma application probe was also developed for grape berries. The individual grape berries were then sterilized with 1% sodium hypochlorite under a laminar hood for 2 minutes. Afterward, they were rinsed three times with sterile distilled water to remove any remaining disinfectant residue from their surfaces. Sterilized berries were immersed in Aspergillus spore suspension with 105 spores.ml-1 concentration. Finally, all samples were dried on paper filters and prepared for different plasma treatment durations (0, 10, 20, and 40 s). The treated samples were stored at 4°C, and the infection percentage and microbial load were measured on a weekly basis. To assess the preservation quality, chemical parameters such as pH, TSS, and TA, physical parameters (color change and weight loss), and mechanical properties were measured every week. Additionally, thermal imaging was performed weekly. Results and Discussion Plasma application during storage significantly reduced the infection percentage and microbial load in Aspergillus-inoculated samples. At the end of the storage period, the infection percentage and microbial load in the 40-second plasma treatment were 5% and 2.5 CFU g-1 respectively, while in the control group, the infection percentage was 100% and the microbial load was 4 CFU g-1. At the end of the storage period, the lowest pH level in the plasma was observed for 40 s plasma. This could be attributed to effective contamination control, as fungal contamination leads to alkalization of the environment. The highest amount of TSS was also observed in control and 40 s plasma. But in the 10 and 20 s plasma treatment, the process of changes was gradual and not significant. The higher TSS level of control and 40 s plasma can be due to the weight loss caused by the spread of contamination and moisture leakage caused by damage to the tissue. This decrease in moisture leads to an apparent increase in the TSS index. Research has shown that plasma primarily affects the surface characteristics of products, and when applied with the appropriate voltage and duration, it does not alter the internal chemical properties (Hu et al., 2021). Over time, weight loss increased in all treatments. This increasing trend during the storage period is higher in control and 40 s plasma compared to 10 and 20 s plasma. Therefore, the weight loss in the control can be due to the spread of contamination and aging of the product over time. However, the weight loss in the 40-second plasma treatment can be due to the destruction of the fruit tissue caused by longer duration of the plasma application. In the current research, by increasing the duration of plasma application to 40 s, a significant decrease in L*, a*, and b* indices and an overall change in the color of the product was observed. Research shows that in blueberries, inappropriate duration of plasma treatment causes the loss of wax on the fruit surface and leads to darkening of the product (Hu et al., 2021). The highest and lowest changes in temperature drop were observed in the control treatment (5°C) and 10 and 20 s plasma (3 and 3.5°C, respectively). According to research, an increase in fungal contamination leads to a decrease in humidity, increases weight loss, and subsequently a decrease in product temperature. A decline in mechanical characteristics was noted for the control and plasma treated samples during the storage period. The lowest value for indicators was observed in the 40 s plasma treatment. However, no significant difference was observed in samples treated with plasma for less than 20 seconds compared to the control group up to the middle of the storage period. According to a report by Misra et al. (2014), plasma application can reduce tissue softness. Therefore, optimizing its plasma duration and intensity is very important (Pan et al., 2021). Conclusion Our experiments aimed to investigate the effect of NTP treatment on controlling Aspergillus infections while preserving the quality properties of Fakhri grapes. The obtained results are important for two main reasons. Firstly, an innovative probe was designed for plasma applications, specifically tailored to the shape and size of individual grapes in order to thoroughly cover them with plasma. Secondly, application of plasma was carried out for the first time and yielded valuable results, indicating that this technique can control fungal infections and preserve the chemical, physical, and mechanical properties of grapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vibriosis in shrimp farms poses potential risks to the industry's sustainability and the consumers' health. Little is known about the dynamics and variation of Vibrio spp--population in shrimp production in Sarawak, Malaysia. The apparent prevalence of three Vibrio species, V. parahaemolyticus, V. cholerae, and V. alginolyticus, were investigated in water (n=12), sediment (n=12), shrimp (n=12), and effluent (n=12) samples collected from two ponds in a coastal shrimp farm during one production cycle. Multiplex-PCR using specific primer sets showed the presence of the three Vibrio species. Based on the results, V. parahaemolyticus was the most prevalent in all four samples, with a contamination rate of 97.92% (95% CI: 89. 10 to 99.89%), while V. cholerae and V. alginolyticus had a contamination rate of 47.92% (95% CI: 34.37 to 61.67%) and 25.0% (95% CI: 14.92 to 38.78%), respectively. High Vibrio load in the shrimp farm is due to favourable environmental factors, such as optimal temperatures, salinity, and pH ranges for the growth of these species. The study's findings offer important preliminary insights into the prevalence and distribution of these pathogenic Vibrio spp., within a shrimp farm in Kuching, Sarawak. This study serves as a potential model for monitoring Vibrio spp. prevalence in other shrimp farms across Sarawak, thereby addressing the scarcity of data on prevalence in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Healthcare-associated infections, primarily caused by microorganisms, are widespread in healthcare facilities. These infections pose a significant challenge, especially in low and middle-income countries, and have a detrimental impact on patient outcomes. It is crucial to assess the level of microbial load and associated factors to prevent the spread of these infections. The objective of this study was to assess the microbial load and identify the factors associated with it in various wards at Jimma Medical Center. Method: A cross-sectional study conducted at Jimma Medical Center. Indoor air samples were collected using the settle plate method with a 1/1/1 scheme. Inanimate surfaces and medical equipment were sampled using Swabs from a 10 × 10 cm area. A total of 268 samples were collected from 10 rooms. Pertinent information regarding the associated factors was gathered using an observational checklist. A multiple linear regression model was used to identify any associations with the microbial load. Result: Out of the total samples, 181 (67.5%) tested positive for culture, and 270 microbes were isolated. The average load of bacteria and fungi in the indoor air ranged from 124.4 to 1607 and 96 to 814.6 Colony-forming unit (CFU)/m3, respectively. The mean total aerobic colony counts of bacteria and fungi from all surfaces in the wards ranged from 5.25 to 43.3 CFU/cm2. Crowdedness [β = 2.748 (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.057-4.44)], the presence of waste material [β = 1.747 (95% CI: 0.213-3.282)], and an unclean room [β = 2.505 (95% CI: 0.990-4.019)] were significantly associated with the microbial load. Conclusion: The microbial load detected in indoor air, inanimate surfaces and medical equipment was posing potential health risks. Consequently, it is recommended to implement regular microbial surveillance of the hospital environment and enhance the infection prevention program to mitigate these concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal and bacterial bioaerosols have the potential to induce biodeterioration in books and archival materials stored within libraries through their metabolic processes. The progression of these processes is dependent on microclimatic factors, including relative humidity and temperature. At the national level, research on biodeterioration in libraries and investigations into bioaerosols in indoor environments have been limited. These topics are of great significance as they have an impact on both public health and book preservation. This study aims to determine the microbial load within the indoor air of the library situated on the campus of Universidad Militar Nueva Granada in Cajicá, Colombia. Simultaneously, it seeks to investigate the microclimatic conditions of this environment. We used a MAS-100 Eco air sampler with an airflow rate of 100 L/min for a duration of 2.5 minutes. Nutrient agar and rose Bengal were employed as culture media. The samples were incubated for 8 days, and colony counting was performed on Petri dishes. For fungal identification, we used lactophenol blue staining, and Gram staining was employed for bacterial classification. Microclimatic conditions were continuously monitored using a data logger equipped with a USB connection. The results revealed microbial loads ranging from 220 to 921 CFU/m³, with temperatures fluctuating between 18.2 and 18.6°C, and relative humidity levels within the range of 60.8% to 64.7%. The identification of fungal genera, including Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Cladosporium, as well as both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, was successfully achieved. An interesting observation emerged, indicating a corresponding increase in the concentration of fungal aerosols as relative humidity levels rose. In conclusion, this study emphasizes that microclimatic conditions, especially relative humidity, may increase the risk of biodeterioration within the library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chick performance and hatchability are adversely affected by microbial contamination of hatching eggs. Egg disinfection is therefore crucial to limiting bacterial numbers and optimizing production. The present study was applied to detect the effect of hatching eggs spraying (nest and floor) with two commercial disinfectants: A (H2O2, peracetic and acetic acid) and B (glutraldehyde and Benzalkonium chloride) on hatching parameters and eggshell microbial counts. Hatching eggs were collected from broiler breeder flocks at different ages (37, 47 and 57 weeks). The obtained results indicated that both disinfectants reduced the levels of bacteria in similar ways, but there were no significant differences between them. Concerning the hatching parameters; hatchability percentages (total and true) were lower than standard in both nest and floor eggs, and higher hatchability percentages were found in eggs sanitized with disinfectant A. However, the lowest values were reported in eggs of 57 weeks old breeders with both disinfectants. Conclusively, disinfectants A and B reduced the microbial load of hatching eggs of different ages, and some hatchability parameters were affected with flock age and the used disinfectants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of the microbiota present in food processing environments is a significant advance that will allow for better evaluation of the risk of food contamination and a better design of the procedures for sanitization. The levels of microbial group indicators of hygienic quality were determined in different areas of the slaughter lines of two poultry slaughterhouses in the northwest of Spain (22 surfaces in each slaughterhouse were studied). The average microbial levels (cfu/cm2) were 2.15 × 102 ± 4.26 × 102 (total aerobic counts, TAC), 1.99 × 102 ± 5.00 × 102 (psychrotrophic microorganisms), 3.10 × 100 ± 1.37 × 101 (enterobacteria), 3.96 × 100 ± 2.55 × 101 (coliforms), 1.80 × 10−1 ± 7.79 × 10−1 (enterococci), and 1.12 × 10−1 ± 3.35 × 10−1 (vancomycin-resistant enterococci, VRE). TAC and psychrotrophic microorganisms were the most abundant groups in all samples (p < 0.05). The counts of both microbial groups were higher (p < 0.05) in samples of Slaughterhouse A than in those of Slaughterhouse B. Microbial loads for the rest of the bacteria were not influenced by the slaughterhouse sampled (p > 0.05). All 44 samples showed TAC and psychrotrophic microorganisms. Colonies of the rest of the microbial groups were only found in 26 samples (59.1% of the total). The isolates (one from each sample) were identified with MALDI-TOF and PCR. Gram-negative bacteria (all Enterobacteriaceae) were isolated in 23 samples, and Gram-positive bacteria were isolated in 16 (9 Enterococcus spp., 2 Enterococcus spp. and VRE, 3 VRE, 1 Enterococcus spp. and Listeria spp., and 1 Listeria spp.). The resistance of the strains to 11 (Enterococcus spp.) or 17 (Enterobacteriaceae) antibiotics was determined (disk diffusion, CLSI), finding an average of 2.05 ± 2.06 resistances per strain (3.46 ± 2.27 if reduced susceptibility reactions are included). A total of 37.3% of the Enterobacteriaceae isolates had a gene for resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics (blaTEM, blaCTX-M-15, blaKPC, blaCMY-2 or blaNDM). The high prevalence of resistant bacteria and resistance genes highlights the need to establish measures to control the spread of antibiotic resistance in poultry slaughterhouses. The findings of this work could contribute to the design of more effective sanitation procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most modern cities suffer from urban air pollution caused by human activity such as traffic and other sources. Various pollutants in the environment may pose a threat to the health of commuters. The objective of this study is to assess the indoor air quality (IAQ) in MRT purple line trains serving the north-western area of Bangkok in order to determine any potential impacts on human health. The monitored parameters include total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs), temperature, relative humidity, carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), ozone (O3), formaldehyde (CH2O), and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). The indoor air pollutant concentrations in the MRT remained within the permissible thresholds. The results of the correlation analysis reveal that relative humidity (RH) and PM2.5 are positively correlated in both the wintertime and summertime measurement campaigns. In contrast, CO2 correlated with temperature in the wintertime and CO in the rainy season. Bacterial and fungal loads were estimated during various measurement campaigns in MRT. Fungi and bacterial loads were higher in the MRT trains during the wintertime and rainy season campaigns. The IAQ of MRT train in Bangkok is within the satisfactory and excellent category of air quality index (AQI). The inhaled doses of PM2.5, CO, and VOCs were also estimated to identify their health effects on commuters. The inhaled dose of PM2.5 was comparatively higher than other pollutants. In this study, a general perspective of the IAQ in the MRT system was provided. It is recommended to conduct more research studies on various MRT lines in Bangkok to further investigate the levels of bacteria, fungi, TVOCs, O3, and PM. Additionally, the ventilation mode in MRT needs to be investigated as it is the main factor affecting the IAQ.

This study explored a novel nanocomposite comprising banana powder (BP), cellulose nanofiber (CNF), and 0.6% zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs). The treatment involved immersing arils in the respective nanocomposite coatings for 4 min, followed by air-drying at room temperature (25°C) and subsequent storage in polyethylene terephthalate punnets at 4°C and 85% relative humidity for 21 d. Results demonstrated that the nanocomposites significantly (p

ABSTRACT: Poultry farming generates significant poultry litter (broiler litter and laying hen manure), posing environmental and human health risks. Heat treatment, particularly through drying, can mitigate these adverse effects. This paper aimed to explore the impact of various drying methods of poultry litter on key process indicators. The literature review showed that the drying kinetics of the broiler litter in a hot air dryer is affected by the manure depth, air velocity, drying temperature, and air relative humidity. Nevertheless, the effect of the air relative humidity is insignificant on drying laying hen manure. Hot air drying, freeze drying, and oven drying have significant effects on the nutrient content of the broiler litter. In drying both broiler litter and laying hen manure, the specific energy consumption decreases as air temperature and relative humidity rise. Low temperatures cause poor bacteria destruction in poultry litter, but at temperatures over 50°C, Salmonella is completely destroyed. The ammonia release from laying hen manure and broiler litter is very sensitive to moisture content. Generally, air temperature, air velocity, manure depth, and air relative humidity positively correlate with ammonia emission. The average ammonia emission during belt drying of laying hen manure is about 209.3 mg NH3 d-1 hen-1. Finally, the lack of comprehensive research on poultry litter drying with modern drying methods (ultrasound, microwave, infrared rays, and freeze drying) is evident. One approach that may offer new opportunities is hybrid methods, such as a combination of dryers that use hot air drying agents with these modern drying methods.

AbstractThe present study aimed to evaluate the effects of rosemary (REO) and basil (BEO) essential oils (EO) on minced raw meat samples. The meat samples were subsequently treated with various concentrations: 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% (v/w) of rosemary (MR0.5, MR1.0, and MR1.5) and basil (MB0.5, MB1.0, and MB1.5) EO, respectively, as well as meat sample without EO treatment was used as a control. Afterward, the samples were stored at 4 °C and monitored for pH, Hunter CIEL*a*b* color and bacterial counts at 0, 7, 14, and 21 days. Results indicated that EO treatment offered a lower pH, particularly for BEO treatment as compared to the control. Samples treated with BEO presented the higher CIEL*a*b* (lightness, redness and yellowness) values followed by REO treatments as compared to the control during the entire storage periods. The addition of both EO to minced meat resulted in a significant (p

Urbanization has caused severe negative impacts on intra-urban river water worldwide. In this study, the WHO drinking water standards (2024) were used as reference to assess the physicochemical properties, heavy metals (HMs) content and microbial load in water and sediment samples collected from 25 locations along Rachiine River, located in Northern Lebanon, during wet and dry periods. Multivariate statistical analysis was applied to evaluate the seasonal variations in water and sediment quality, and determine the pollution sources. The microbial load assessment indicated high pollution levels by Escherichia coli, fecal enterococci, total coliform and fecal coliform, which generally increased as the river progressed downstream. Cluster analysis (CA) provided three major clusters in the study region, representing the northern, central, and southern sectors of the river. Principal components analysis (PCA) of water samples generated four principal components (PCs) accounting for 64.3, 11.4, 7.6 and 4.1 % of the total variance, whereas PCA of sediment samples explained 59.1, 16.9 and 11.1 % of the data set variance. These PCs revealed that the quality of water and sediments is significantly impacted by point and diffuse sources, including geological and anthropogenic factors. These findings call for urgent management strategies to limit future deterioration of the aquatic bodies.

Background: Food poisoning could be caused by eating the sweets contaminated with microorganisms, which has always been considered as one of the major problems of people in developing countries, including Iran. The aim of this study is to investigate microbial variety and fungal load in the traditional sweets offered in confectionery stores in Yazd province in 2020. Methods: In this study, 170 samples of traditional sweets, referred by confectioneries in Yazd province, were randomly selected and tested for microorganisms contamination such as Enterobacteriaceae, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, molds, and yeasts according to Iranian national standards. Results: The highest rate of microbial contamination in samples was related to "Pistachio Loz" (52.94%) and the lowest rate was related to "Hajibadam" (11.76%). The infection rates of Enterobacteriaceae, Escherichia coli, molds, and yeasts were 17.06%, 8.83%, 20.59%, 3.53%, respectively. No infection was observed with Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella in the samples. Conclusions: Due to the high level of microbial contamination of traditional sweets, especially "Pistachio Loz" offered in Yazd, more control measures are needed in preparation and distribution of such sweets.

Background: Food poisoning could be caused by eating the sweets contaminated with microorganisms, which has always been considered as one of the major problems of people in developing countries, including Iran. The aim of this study is to investigate microbial variety and fungal load in the traditional sweets offered in confectionery stores in Yazd province in 2020. Methods: In this study, 170 samples of traditional sweets, referred by confectioneries in Yazd province, were randomly selected and tested for microorganisms contamination such as Enterobacteriaceae, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, molds, and yeasts according to Iranian national standards. Results: The highest rate of microbial contamination in samples was related to "Pistachio Loz" (52.94%) and the lowest rate was related to "Hajibadam" (11.76%). The infection rates of Enterobacteriaceae, Escherichia coli, molds, and yeasts were 17.06%, 8.83%, 20.59%, 3.53%, respectively. No infection was observed with Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella in the samples. Conclusions: Due to the high level of microbial contamination of traditional sweets, especially "Pistachio Loz" offered in Yazd, more control measures are needed in preparation and distribution of such sweets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bee pollen is a healthy product with a good nutritional profile and therapeutic properties. Its high moisture content, however, promotes the growth of bacteria, molds, and yeast during storage commonly result in product degradation. Therefore, the aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of gamma irradiation (GI) and ozone (OZ) as bee pollen preservation methods for longer storage time, as well as whether they are influenced by pollen species. To do that, GI at a dosage of 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 kGy was applied at a rate of 0.68 kGy/h and OZ application at a concentration of 0.01, 0.02, and 0.03 g/m3 was applied for one time for 6 h, to Egyptian clover and maize bee pollen, then stored at ambient temperature for 6 months. We then determined the total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity of treated and non-treated pollen samples at 0, 3, and 6 months of storage. Total bacteria, mold, and yeast count were also evaluated at 0, 2, 4, and 6 months. Statistical analyses revealed that, TPC, antioxidant, and microbial load of both clover and maize pollen samples were significantly (p < 0.05) affected by both treatment and storage time and their interaction. Both methods were extremely effective at preserving the antioxidant properties of pollen samples after 6 months of storage at room temperature. Furthermore, the highest concentrations of both GI and OZ applications completely protected pollen samples from mold and yeast while decreasing bacterial contamination. GI at the highest dose (7.5 KGy) was found to be more effective than other GI doses and OZ application in preserving biologically active compounds and lowering the microbial count of pollen samples for 6 months. As a result, we advise beekeepers to use GI at this dose for longer-term storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impacts of anthropogenic activities on surface water quality, heavy metals and microbial load of Awba Dam, University of Ibadan were studied for four months. Awba Dam was stratified into four stations (A, B, C and D) based on hydrological features. Two sampling points were randomly selected from each station. Monthly stratification covered September to December. Water samples were collected bi-weekly following standard procedures. Water samples collected were analysed for temperature (°C), dissolved oxygen (DO, mg/L); heavy metal (HM) (lead, iron, chromium and copper) in water (mg/L) and microbial loads (ML) (CFU/100 mL) according to standard methods. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA at α0.05. Significantly highest and least temperatures were 27.60 ± 2.23 and 27.10; DO (3.84 ± 0.35, 3.37 ± 0.11) in stations D and A, while BOD (5.81 ± 2.69, 5.30 ± 2.42) were recorded in stations A and B respectively. Significantly highest and least levels of HM were: lead (0.89 ± 0.35, 0.14 ± 0.06); iron (0.48 ± 0.08, 0.19 ± 0.05); chromium (3.51 ± 0.01, 1.50 ± 0.01) and copper (0.01 ± 0.01, 0.01 ± 0.01) were recorded in September and November, but ML (4.76 x 10-6 and 4.00 x 10-6) were obtained as highest and lowest in December and September respectively. Results from this study showed that, Awba Dam is contaminated with lead, iron, chromium and copper and ML. It is recommended that adequate monitoring and pollution reduction strategies be implemented to improve the aquatic resources of the dam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silkworms have been farmed for their silk since ancient times. After silk reeling, their chrysalides are consumed as food in several Asian countries. Despite the long rearing tradition of this insect, few studies have investigated the silkworm’s microbiological safety all along the life cycle, focusing on detecting silkworm pathogens or on the safety of the dried chrysalis for food consumption. However, the in-farm rearing process, which takes around forty days, may affect the microbial load of the silkworm and of the rearing environment, as well as the quality of fresh cocoon and other performance parameters. No data is available on how microbial contamination changes during the rearing period and between different farmers. Furthermore, in light of the possible use of the chrysalis as food, it is crucial to understand how its microbial load varies according to the water content. To address these specific questions, we conducted an investigation involving the analysis of specific microbial indicators commonly used in the food chain. We collected environmental and silkworm samples from several farms. The examination covered the entire life cycle of silkworms, beginning with the first instar larvae and concluding with the scrutiny of both freshly harvested and dried pupae. Silkworm farms in Northeast Italy proved to be an appropriate model system for carrying out the experimentation. Additionally, an evaluation of rearing performance was conducted, with a focus on the quality of fresh cocoons and the survival rate of the insects.

In this study, the quality and acceptability factor of Raphia palm weevil larvae (Rhynchophorus phoenicis) as influenced by different thermal processing methods were investigated. Raphia palm weevil larvae (n=1000) were randomly distributed into four groups of 250 larvae per group according to a treatment, namely: T1 = boiling (100 °C), T2 = roasting (120 °C) T3 = frying (160 °C) and T4 = oven-drying (180 °C). All treatments lasted 20 minutes. Analyses were carried out to determine the physical, chemical, vitamin and mineral composition, and microbial load. In addition, sensory characteristics were evaluated. Weevil larvae processed by the boiling method had the highest cooking yield (97.59%), water holding capacity (21.78%) and the lowest cooking loss (2.41%). The protein and fat content was higher in weevil larvae processed by frying (37.63% and 17.70%, respectively), while moisture was lowest (18.68%) in oven-dried larvae. The calcium, magnesium and phosphorus content was higher in oven-dried larvae, while there were no significant differences in iron, manganese, zinc and vitamins in the processed larvae irrespective of the methods. Boiled larvae had a higher microbial load, while fried and oven-dried larvae had the lowest microbial load. Fried larvae elicited highest sensory characteristics except tenderness, which was higher in boiled larvae, but fried larvae had higher overall acceptability than those processed by other methods. Therefore, it has been shown that the frying method is an appropriate method of processing Raphia palm weevil larvae for enhanced quality and acceptability.

More than half of foodborne illnesses are attributed to pathogenic bacteria, posing considerable health and economic dangers. Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis (SESE) is a prevalent bacterial pathogen responsible for a higher number of hospitalizations and fatalities compared to other bacteria. Non-thermal plasma, an innovative decontamination technique, exhibits the potential to serve as an intervention strategy for food safety. The study aimed to explore the possibility of deactivating SESE through a brief industrial treatment utilizing non-thermal atmospheric cold plasma of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) devices. To assess the reduction of SESE, air was used as the process gas under different experimental circumstances, with Petridishes containing an initial concentration of 107 CFU/mL. Emission spectroscopy was employed to monitor the key factors of plasma deactivation, namely ultraviolet radiation and reactive species. The application of the DBD cold plasma device resulted in a decrease in SESE concentration by over 7 log CFU/mL following a 60-second treatment. Moreover, scanning electron microscopy revealed that atmospheric cold plasma treatment caused significant physical damage to the cells.

The hybrid solar smart dryer (HSSD) was established to dry medicinal and aromatic herbs that are sensitive to direct sunlight. This study explores the effectiveness of the HSSD as an indirect solar drying technique in drying lemongrass, thyme, marjoram, and lavender at different temperatures (30, 40, and 50 ± 2 °C), focusing on its ability to retain quality features. The total energy consumption was estimated by values of 27.72 kWh for lemongrass and 43.02 kWh for lavender using HSSD at 50 ± 2 °C. Generally, HSSD showed an improvement in the studied physicochemical quality parameters. The green color retention was with the parameters of 15.60 ± 0.89, −5.28 ± 1.92, −3.89 ± 1.86, and −5.89 ± 2.40 for lemongrass, thyme, marjoram, and lavender samples, respectively. The highest values of the lemon grass, thyme, marjoram, and lavender oil content (1.96, 1.73, 3.40, and 2.76%, respectively) were obtained when the aromatic herbs were dried using the HSSD at 40 °C. This study showcased the effectiveness of solar dryers in preserving the physicochemical properties of lemongrass, thyme, marjoram, and lavender during drying, which could be applied to other food products. HSSD is a promising energy-efficient method that can save 19–36% of energy consumption, reducing the carbon footprint of drying processes and delivering high-quality products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of thermal pasteurization (TP, 62.5 °C/30 min—conditions similar to those used in milk banks/hospitals, known as Holder pasteurization) and high-pressure pasteurization (HPP: 400–625 MPa/2.5–30 min) was studied on immunoglobulin (IgG, IgM and IgA) content, lysozyme activity and microbial load of donkey colostrum (in this case, after 40 days at 4 °C). IgG level remained unchanged with HPP at 400 MPa, increased up to 4-fold at 625 MPa/10 min and decreased 90% with TP, while IgM decreased progressively with pressure treatment intensity increment to below the detection limit at 625 MPa and decreased 20% with TP. IgA decreased to below the detection limit after TP and all HPP treatments. Lysozyme activity presented overall a higher decrease after TP (37%) compared to HPP (decreasing from 20% at 400 MPa to about 40% at 600 MPa/10 and 30 min). Furthermore, both total aerobic mesophiles and Enterobacteriaceae remained below detection limits after 40 days of refrigerated storage for both TP and HPP. So, HPP can be considered a potential alternative to the conventional TP to preserve donkey colostrum, with overall equal to better retention, particularly for IgG and lysozyme activity. As far as the authors are aware, this is the first study evaluating the effects of HPP on donkey colostrum, and research in this field should be pursued. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bioremediation efficiency of the sea cucumber, Holothuria scabra, held at different stocking densities as an eco-based waste treatment technology on the quality of water and sediment of the Penaeus monodon pond culture, was evaluated in this study. Two separate experiments were simultaneously conducted indoors for five days using 100-L capacity aquaria. The treatments for the pond water experiment were: (T1) control, 10 L pond water only, (T2) 10 L pond water + one sea cucumber, and (T3) 10 L pond water + two sea cucumbers. For the pond sediment experiment, the conditions of the three treatments were the same except that pond sediments were added in each aquarium. The results showed that T2 had a significant reduction of ammonia (28%), and nitrite (84%) in pond water, and nitrogen (88%) and phosphorus (9%) in pond sediment. It also efficiently improved the management of the microbial load with a significant decrease, particularly in heterotrophs (39%) in pond water compared to that in the control treatment. The results showed that the presence and activity of H. scabra have a positive bioremediation effect on waste as demonstrated by reduced ammonia, nitrite, nitrogen, and phosphorus levels and microbial load from the P. monodon pond water and sediment. Furthermore, the stocking density of one sea cucumber is more efficient in reducing these wastes compared to the two sea cucumbers stocking density. The result suggested that H. scabra can be a potentially efficient bioremediator of waste in shrimp ponds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, bee pollen has been widely used as a dietary supplement due to its high nutritional value. However, the quality of the final product is strongly affected by the practices followed by beekeepers during the collection process. In Greece, bee pollen is mostly marketed and consumed in fresh form. In the present study, the harvesting period under different environmental conditions, the use of different types of pollen traps [outdoor front (A), indoor bottom (B) and indoor roof (C)] and the time staying in them (0,1,2 days) were evaluated as possible sources of contamination of the final product. Microbial load variability was studied for Mesophilic Total Viable Count (MTVC), Yeasts and Moulds (Y&M), Enterobacteriaceae (ENT), Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) and Escherichia coli. The results of the study highlight the advantages of using indoor traps and suggest avoiding early spring collection. Delayed harvesting had an impact on the microbial load of pollen, especially on the growth of MTVC and ENT, with values higher than 5 and 2 log cfu/g, respectively, exceeding the market limits as defined in food hygiene standards. Indeed, the highest counts of MTVC and ENT were detected after 2 days of pollen staying in outdoor front traps (5.98 and 4.81 log cfu/g, respectively). The results of the study will be a helpful guide in giving the appropriate beekeeping practices for the production of fresh pollen with microbial load harmonized with hygienic standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine whether the disinfection of soiled goose eggs by spraying with tap water, acetic acid and boric acid solutions affects hatching performance and microbial load. A total of 1200 eggs were used for analysis of incubation characteristics and a total of 30 eggs were used for microbiological analysis. The study consisted of five treatment groups: clean eggs (PC, positive control); dirty eggs (NC, negative control); eggs sprayed with tap water (TW); eggs sprayed with 3% acetic acid solution (A3); eggs sprayed with 3% boric acid solution (B3). The differences between the groups for hatching from set eggs, hatching from fertile eggs, embryonic mortality rate, and non-commercial gosling rate were not statistically significant. In terms of microbial load, differences between the groups were statistically significant for total mesophilic aerobic bacteria (P < 0.001), total coliforms (P < 0.000), Enterobacteriaceae (P < 0.01), and Escherichia coli (P<0.05). The most effective treatment group for total mesophilic aerobic bacteria was B3, which reduced the number of colonies on the shell by 2.93 log10 cfu; for Enterobacteriaceae, it was TW, which reduced the number of colonies by 1.79 log10 cfu; for coliforms, it was TW and A3, which reduced the number of colonies by 1.87 log10 cfu. This study showed that spraying with tap water, acetic acid, and boric acid solutions successfully reduced the microbial load on contaminated goose eggs and did not negatively affect the incubation characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food & Fermentation Industries is the property of Food & Fermentation Industries and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Infectious diseases pose significant challenges in pediatric daycare centers due to high contact rates among children. Hand hygiene is a critical measure in preventing illness transmission. Methods: This cluster randomized trial involved 800 children across 20 daycare centers, divided into handwashing, hand sanitizers, educational program, and control groups. The study assessed the interventions' effectiveness in improving hand hygiene compliance, reducing microbial loads, and decreasing illness episodes and absenteeism. Results: Postintervention, hand hygiene compliance significantly increased in the handwashing (85 ± 4.3%, p<0.01), hand sanitizers (82 ± 4.7%, p<0.01), and educational program groups (83.5 ± 4.2%, p<0.01). The educational program most effectively reduced illness episodes (from 59% to 35%, p<0.01) and absenteeism (from 29% to 13%, p<0.01). Microbial load reductions were highest in the hand sanitizers group (hands: 55%, surfaces: 53%, p<0.01). Factors influencing compliance included age, gender, and the presence of visual reminders. Conclusion: While all interventions improved hand hygiene and reduced illness transmission, the educational program demonstrated the greatest efficacy. Incorporating visual reminders and tailoring strategies to demographic specifics can further optimize hand hygiene practices in pediatric settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research conducted with the aim of manufacturing healthy products (yoghurt and local cream cheese) rich in bioactive compounds and healthy fatty acid using avocado fruit pulp. Avocado pulp used in the manufacture of yoghurt at two, four, and six percent, and the yoghurt stored at ْ 4 C for seven days. Local cream cheese was handmade by replacing animal butter with 15% avocado pulp. The content of phenolic compounds in fresh avocado pulp determined using HPLC, where it was found to be rich in kaempferol 30.88 ppm, ferulic acid 30.25 ppm, apigenin 22.58 ppm, quercetin 18.98 ppm, and P-coumaric acid 12.66 ppm, as well as rich in some fatty acids: oleic 59.58%, palmitic 17.58%, and α-linolenic 18.05%. Compared to the control sample at the first day of storage, the avocado-fortified yoghurt led to an increase in antioxidant activity by 10.86%, 25.12%, and 34.63%, and in total phenolic content by 129.55%, 343.18%, and 404.55%. The yoghurt sample at four percent was the most accepted in texture, taste, flavor, and general acceptance, and the avocado added a buttery, astringent, and distinct taste to the avocado-fortified samples. Also, the manufactured of local cream cheese by avocado led to a decrease in moisture and fat, and an increase in acidity and total solids, and it was possible to obtain a low-fat functional food with high nutritional value. Results showed that supporting yoghurt with avocado had a positive effect on reducing the total number of microorganisms and was free of molds, yeasts, and coliform growths during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Applying magnetized water to marine aquaculture is still a new application, and studies are very scarce. Accordingly, our study was conducted on gilthead seabream, Sparusaurata, and juveniles to assess the impact of continuous exposure to magnetized treated water at various Tesla levels on water properties, as well as any subsequent consequences on juveniles' development, performance, and survival rate. A 60-day growth trial was carried out using magnetized treated water during the juvenile rearing period (from 60 to 120 days) with magnetized intensities corresponding to 0, 10, 40 and 60MT in the control, F1, F2 and F3 treated groups, respectively. Each replicate treatment included 200 seabream juveniles. Determination of environmental factors, including water temperature, pH, salinity, and dissolved oxygen was carried out. The magnetization system was running around the clock. The findings showed that for 60 days, varying magnetic intensities had an impact on the survival rate of sea bream juveniles reared in magnetic water. At the end of the experiment, histopathological alterations were assessed between specimens of selected organs (intestine, liver, and kidney) collected from different fish juveniles treated groups. In this study, the magnetized water decreased bacterial load compared with the normal water (control) considering the antimicrobial efficacy of magnetized water. Overall, it was concluded that exposure of sea bream juveniles to magnetized water of intensity corresponding to 40MT represented the highest survival rate (51.67%), improved its growth performance and water properties, reduced microbial infected communities, as well as restored the normal architecture of intestinal and renal tissues in a recirculating healthy aquaculture system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research conducted with the aim of manufacturing healthy products (yoghurt and local cream cheese) rich in bioactive compounds and healthy fatty acid using avocado fruit pulp. Avocado pulp used in the manufacture of yoghurt at two, four, and six percent, and the yoghurt stored at 4ﹾ C for seven days. Local cream cheese was handmade by replacing animal butter with 15% avocado pulp. The content of phenolic compounds in fresh avocado pulp determined using HPLC, where it was found to be rich in kaempferol 30.88 ppm, ferulic acid 30.25 ppm, apigenin 22.58 ppm, quercetin 18.98 ppm, and P-coumaric acid 12.66 ppm, as well as rich in some fatty acids: oleic 59.58%, palmitic 17.58%, and α-linolenic 18.05%. Compared to the control sample at the first day of storage, the avocado-fortified yoghurt led to an increase in antioxidant activity by 10.86%, 25.12%, and 34.63%, and in total phenolic content by 129.55%, 343.18%, and 404.55%. The yoghurt sample at four percent was the most accepted in texture, taste, flavor, and general acceptance, and the avocado added a buttery, astringent, and distinct taste to the avocado-fortified samples. Also, the manufactured of local cream cheese by avocado led to a decrease in moisture and fat, and an increase in acidity and total solids, and it was possible to obtain a low-fat functional food with high nutritional value. Results showed that supporting yoghurt with avocado had a positive effect on reducing the total number of microorganisms and was free of molds, yeasts, and coliform growths during storage.

The demand for cowhide (ponmo) is currently very high, particularly in Nigeria, due to rising commodity prices, including animal proteins, which has forced a larger percentage of the population who cannot afford meat, chicken, turkey or eggs to rely on other meat products such as “ponmo,” “kundi,” and “tinko” as an alternative source of protein. This research aims to identify microorganisms associated with ponmo, determine the antibiogram of the isolates, and assess the nutritional value of ponmo marketed in Ilishan-Remo central market. Six ponmo vendors were sampled for Dry White Ponmo (DWP), Wet White Ponmo (WWP), Wet Brown Ponmo (WBP) and Brown Ponmo Water (BPW) and transported in sterile containers to the Laboratory for analysis to determine the microbial load, sensitivity, and proximate analysis using standardized methods. For microbiological analysis, samples were tested in triplicate. All samples analyzed had a high microbial load count (from 1.1 x 106 to 1.4 x 107). The organisms isolated were Escherichia coli (34.21 %), Staphylococcus aureus (26.31 %), Klebsiella spp. (18.42 %), Pseudomonas spp. (13.15 %) and Coagulase-negative staphylococci (7.89 %). All the isolates were multidrug-resistant (MDR). Septrin had the highest resistivity (86.84 %) while gentamicin had the lowest resistance (7.89 %). Pefloxacin sensitivity was observed in 37 of the 38 isolates (97.37 % sensitivity). Ciprofloxacin and gentamicin came second and third (84.2 % and 73.68 % sensitivity) respectively. According to the proximate analysis, the WWP has more protein, fat, and fiber, whereas the WBP has more moisture. Food handlers should follow Good Hygiene Practices and take a Food Handlers Test regularly.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of Greek undergraduate students on hand hygiene and mobile phone hygiene, in relation to their mobile phones’ microbial load. An anonymous self-reported questionnaire was distributed among 100 students and swabs were taken from their devices for microbiological cultures and for an on-site bioluminescence microbial load assessment. Hand washing was considered the most effective personal protective behavior by the majority (89%), while spatial restrictions (40%) and forgetfulness (31%) were the main reasons for neglecting hand washing. Most students washed their hands 6–10 times/day (32%) for approximately 11–20 s (35%). Although most devices were cleaned/disinfected within the last week (28%), many were contaminated with Staphylococcus saprophyticus (84%), Staphylococcus aureus (13%), and Escherichia coli (39%), while 75% of the samples exceeded the “fail” threshold limit of the luminometer’s measurements. Moreover, statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were found between the devices’ microbial load and certain hand hygiene behaviors and preferences. The median cfu/cm2 of Escherichia coli was higher among first-year students of health sciences, while Staphylococcus aureus was more prevalent in females’ than in males’ mobile phones. It w therefore understood that undergraduate students’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors on hand hygiene and mobile phone hygiene are highly intertwined with the microbial load on their mobile phones.

Over the past few decades, the demand for high-quality food has increased steadily. Therefore, it is essential to develop innovative technologies that effectively reduce microbial load while minimizing any negative effect on the quality of spices. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of a self-designed non-contact induction heating system using contaminated cumin seeds. The non-contact induction heating decontamination process was performed at different temperatures of 115, 135 and 155°C and durations (45, 60 and 75 s) through continuous process (screw conveyor) in Pyrex cylinder chamber. Various parameters including microbial load, color characteristics, essential oil content, surface morphology, sample temperature, and energy consumption were analyzed as dependent variables in the study. The results showed that the treatment combination (155°C - 60 s) reduced the aerobic plate count from 6.21 to 2.97 CFU/g. Mold, yeast and coliforms in the treatment combination (155°C-45 s) were also reduced by 3.26 and 3.6 CFU/g, respectively. The total color difference of the samples increased due to the degradation and alteration of pigments at high temperatures. However, no statistically significant disparity in essential oil content was observed between the treatment groups and the control group. The quantities of essential oil components in the cumin seeds were determined to align with the ISO standard, with the primary constituents identified as follows: Terpinen-7-al γ (38.98%), Cumin aldehyde (20.75%), γ-Terpinene (18.81%), β-Pinene (13.66%), and p-Cymene (6.2%). In summary, non-contact induction heating system shows promise as an effective technology for surface decontamination of spices. The acquired findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the impact of the induction heating process on both the microbial contamination levels and the quality attributes of cumin seeds. This scientific knowledge serves as a foundational framework for the prospective adoption and integration of this technology on a larger industrial scale.

Teff is a gluten-free cereal crop widely cultivated in Ethiopia and is a critical ingredient in making injera, a unique flatbread. However, there is a significant issue with adulteration of teff, impacting its safety and quality. This study evaluated economically-driven adulteration effects on teff grains' nutritional and microbial quality. A preliminary survey revealed that it is a common practice to adulterate teff grains with inexpensive and inedible materials throughout the supply chain in the study area. One hundred and thirty teff grain samples were collected from producers, collectors, whole-sellers, and retailers in the cities of Tulu bolo and Jimma to determine the types and extents of adulterants present and their effect on the nutritional and microbial quality of the grains. They were mixed separately to create composite samples representing different supply chain actors. Standard protocols were used to evaluate nutritional and microbial quality. The results showed significant differences among the supply chain actors regarding identified adulterants, nutritional content, and microbial quality. The study identified chaff, soil + sand, and dukkaa (a combination of nonedible substances separated from teff grains in milling houses and warehouses) as the significant adulterants, with mean ranges of 1.17–8.07%, 1.29–7.23%, and 8.93–37.13% respectively. The study also evaluated the proximate composition and microbial load of the teff samples collected from different supply chain actors. The ranges of values for moisture, protein, fat, ash, fiber, carbohydrate, and energy were 8.33–10.53%, 6.49–9.42%, 2.29–3.86%, 2.33–6.39%, 2.42–3.95%, 70.9–73.76%, and 333.52–361.9 kcal, respectively. The microbial load showed ranges of 6.92–7.98, 3.17–3.22, 1.78–2.04, 6.73–7.89, and 6.88–7.93 log CFU/g for Total Plate Count, Escherichia coli, Salmonella, mold, and yeast, respectively. The results showed an increase in teff adulteration from producers to Jimma retailers, indicating multiple-stage adulteration throughout the supply chain, posing a threat to product safety and quality. The study recommends good coordination among the bodies responsible for food safety, producers, and consumers to mitigate this issue effectively.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of Greek undergraduate students on hand hygiene and mobile phone hygiene, in relation to their mobile phones' microbial load. An anonymous self-reported questionnaire was distributed among 100 students and swabs were taken from their devices for microbiological cultures and for an on-site bioluminescence microbial load assessment. Hand washing was considered the most effective personal protective behavior by the majority (89%), while spatial restrictions (40%) and forgetfulness (31%) were the main reasons for neglecting hand washing. Most students washed their hands 6–10 times/day (32%) for approximately 11–20 s (35%). Although most devices were cleaned/disinfected within the last week (28%), many were contaminated with Staphylococcus saprophyticus (84%), Staphylococcus aureus (13%), and Escherichia coli (39%), while 75% of the samples exceeded the "fail" threshold limit of the luminometer's measurements. Moreover, statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were found between the devices' microbial load and certain hand hygiene behaviors and preferences. The median cfu/cm2 of Escherichia coli was higher among first-year students of health sciences, while Staphylococcus aureus was more prevalent in females' than in males' mobile phones. It w therefore understood that undergraduate students' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors on hand hygiene and mobile phone hygiene are highly intertwined with the microbial load on their mobile phones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microorganisms are ubiquitous, including within habitats, and they have a negative impact on human health, sanitation, and living situations. Surface microbial load is affected by various factors such as location, usage, cleaning, and environment. Kitchen countertops, toilet fittings, doorknobs, electrical appliances, and fabrics can harbor bacteria, viruses, fungi, and archaea. These pathogens may originate from persons, air or external sources. It is known that high microbial loads on surfaces cause health hazards. Pathogenic bacteria can live for extended durations on surfaces, causing infections by contact or aerosolization. Surface microbial load can be decreased through cleaning and disinfection processes. Reducing microbiological contamination requires the use of appropriate cleaning products, and procedures. In antimicrobial coatings, silver ions and other disinfectants can inhibit surface bacterium adhesion and growth. To mitigate health risks, it is necessary to comprehend microbial colonization and survival on various surfaces. This article examines common surface bacteria, microbial load factors, transmission pathways, and their impact on human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugarcane juice has a lower shelf life owing to enzymatic browning as well as microbial activity. To overcome these issues, fresh sugarcane juice was treated with ascorbic acid, a strong antioxidant, and further subjected to low‐temperature hydrodynamic cavitation (LTHC) treatment at 4°C/.35 MPa for 30 min. The AALHC‐treated juice was filled into PET bottles and stored under atmospheric (25 ± 5°C) and refrigerated (4 ± 1°C) conditions. The changes in reducing sugar, total sugar, color (ΔE), microbial load, total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity of sugarcane juice during the storage period were evaluated. During the storage, better retention of the quality parameters was observed in the AALTHC processed sugarcane juice followed by AA‐treated sugarcane juice and fresh sugarcane juice. Under the atmospheric storage, fresh juice and AA‐treated juice were spoiled within a day, whereas the AALTHC‐treated sugarcane juice could last for 4 days. On the other hand, under the refrigerated storage conditions (4 ± 1°C), the quality of the fresh and AA‐treated sugarcane juice could last only for a week, while the quality of AALTHC could be maintained up to 42 days. Practical Applications: The current study aims to improve the shelf life of sugarcane juice by low‐temperature orifice‐based hydrodynamic cavitation. Sugarcane juice has a short shelf life owing to high levels of microbiological contamination and enzymatic reactions that begin immediately following extraction. The use of hydrodynamic cavitation technique enables a significant reduction in microbial load as well as spoilage enzymes, with minimum effect on the nutrient profile and sensory qualities. The treatments presented in this study are successful, inexpensive, more practicable, and long‐term enough to be scaled up for larger‐scale production of sugar cane juice. The outcomes of this study may be useful for developing a fortified beverage industry employing low‐temperature hydrodynamic cavitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]