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Introduction The aim of the research was to demonstrate the efficiency of microorganisms and the effectiveness of biodegradation techniques on Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastics. The research question was: What is the efficiency of LDPE-degrading microorganisms and the effectiveness of biodegradation techniques? Methods The systematic review was based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Articles were obtained from Scopus, Web of Science (WOS), Embase, and Google Scholar. The DeCS/Mesh search terms were: Low-density polyethylene, efficiency, biodegradation, microbial consortia, fungi, bacteria. Inclusion criteria were: scientific articles that included bacteria, fungi, and microbial consortia reported as LDPE degraders that report the percentage of weight loss; articles published from January 2010 to October 2022, and publications in Spanish and English with open access. Exclusion criteria were: studies that do not report gravimetry, the biodegradation time of LDPE, and the genus or species of the polyethylene-degrading microorganism. Results Out of 483 studies found, 50 were included in this Systematic Review (SR). The most frequent study techniques were scanning electron microscopy (SEM), gravimetry, and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and in the case of microorganisms, the most studied belonged to the genus Pseudomonas, Bacillus, and Aspergillus. Regarding the isolation place, the most frequent mentioned in the reviewed articles were landfill soil and sanitary landfill soil. The efficiency of LDPE-degrading microorganisms was higher in bacteria such as Enterobacter spp., Pantoea spp., Pseudomonas spp., Escherichia coli, and Bacillus spp., which obtained a range of DE of 9.00-70.00%, 24.00-64%, 1.15 – 61.00%, 45.00%, and 1.5-40% with DT of 4-150, 120, 4-150, 30, and 30-120 days, respectively; in the case of fungi, the main microorganisms are Neopestalotiopsis phangngaensis, Colletotrichum fructicola, and Thyrostroma jaczewskii with efficiencies of 54.34, 48.78, and 46.34%, in 90 days, respectively; and the most efficient microbial consortia were from Enterobacter spp. and Pantoea sp. with 38.00 – 81.00%, in 120 days; and, Pseudomonas protegens, Stenotrophomonas sp., B. vallismortis and Paenibacillus sp. with 55. 00 – 75.00% in 120 days. Conclusions The most efficient microorganisms in LDPE degradation are Enterobacter spp., Pantoea spp., Pseudomonas spp., Escherichia coli, and Bacillus spp.; in fungi Neopestalotiopsis phangngaensis, Colletotrichum fructicola, and Thyrostroma jaczewskii; and in microbial consortia, those formed by Enterobacter spp. and Pantoea sp., and that of P. protegens, Stenotrophomonas sp., B. vallismortis and Paenibacillus sp.; and the most effective techniques used in LDPE biodegradation are SEM, gravimetry, and FTIR.

Introduction The aim of the research was to demonstrate the efficiency of microorganisms and the effectiveness of biodegradation techniques on Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastics. The research question was: What is the efficiency of LDPE-degrading microorganisms and the effectiveness of biodegradation techniques? Methods The systematic review was based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Articles were obtained from Scopus, Web of Science (WOS), Embase, and Google Scholar. The DeCS/Mesh search terms were: Low-density polyethylene, efficiency, biodegradation, microbial consortia, fungi, bacteria. Inclusion criteria were: scientific articles that included bacteria, fungi, and microbial consortia reported as LDPE degraders that report the percentage of weight loss; articles published from January 2010 to October 2022, and publications in Spanish and English with open access. Exclusion criteria were: studies that do not report gravimetry, the biodegradation time of LDPE, and the genus or species of the polyethylene-degrading microorganism. Results Out of 483 studies found, 50 were included in this Systematic Review (SR). The most frequent study techniques were scanning electron microscopy (SEM), gravimetry, and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and in the case of microorganisms, the most studied belonged to the genus Pseudomonas, Bacillus, and Aspergillus. Regarding the isolation place, the most frequent mentioned in the reviewed articles were landfill soil and sanitary landfill soil. The efficiency of LDPE-degrading microorganisms was higher in bacteria such as Enterobacter spp., Pantoea spp., Pseudomonas spp., Escherichia coli, and Bacillus spp., which obtained a range of DE of 9.00-70.00%, 24.00-64%, 1.15 – 61.00%, 45.00%, and 1.5-40% with DT of 4-150, 120, 4-150, 30, and 30-120 days, respectively; in the case of fungi, the main microorganisms are Neopestalotiopsis phangngaensis, Colletotrichum fructicola, and Thyrostroma jaczewskii with efficiencies of 54.34, 48.78, and 46.34%, in 90 days, respectively; and the most efficient microbial consortia were from Enterobacter spp. and Pantoea sp. with 38.00 – 81.00%, in 120 days; and, Pseudomonas protegens, Stenotrophomonas sp., B. vallismortis and Paenibacillus sp. with 55. 00 – 75.00% in 120 days. Conclusions The most efficient microorganisms in LDPE degradation are Enterobacter spp., Pantoea spp., Pseudomonas spp., Escherichia coli, and Bacillus spp.; in fungi Neopestalotiopsis phangngaensis, Colletotrichum fructicola, and Thyrostroma jaczewskii; and in microbial consortia, those formed by Enterobacter spp. and Pantoea sp., and that of P. protegens, Stenotrophomonas sp., B. vallismortis and Paenibacillus sp.; and the most effective techniques used in LDPE biodegradation are SEM, gravimetry, and FTIR.

Introduction The aim of the research was to demonstrate the efficiency of microorganisms and the effectiveness of biodegradation techniques on Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastics. The research question was: What is the efficiency of LDPE-degrading microorganisms and the effectiveness of biodegradation techniques? Methods The systematic review was based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Articles were obtained from Scopus, Web of Science (WOS), Embase, and Google Scholar. The DeCS/Mesh search terms were: Low-density polyethylene, efficiency, biodegradation, microbial consortia, fungi, bacteria. Inclusion criteria were: scientific articles that included bacteria, fungi, and microbial consortia reported as LDPE degraders that report the percentage of weight loss; articles published from January 2010 to October 2022, and publications in Spanish and English with open access. Exclusion criteria were: studies that do not report gravimetry, the biodegradation time of LDPE, and the genus or species of the polyethylene-degrading microorganism. Results Out of 483 studies found, 50 were included in this Systematic Review (SR). The most frequent study techniques were scanning electron microscopy (SEM), gravimetry, and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and in the case of microorganisms, the most studied belonged to the genus Pseudomonas, Bacillus, and Aspergillus. Regarding the isolation place, the most frequent mentioned in the reviewed articles were landfill soil and sanitary landfill soil. The efficiency of LDPE-degrading microorganisms was higher in bacteria such as Enterobacter spp., Pantoea spp., Pseudomonas spp., Escherichia coli, and Bacillus spp., which obtained a range of DE of 9.00-70.00%, 24.00-64%, 1.15 – 61.00%, 45.00%, and 1.5-40% with DT of 4-150, 120, 4-150, 30, and 30-120 days, respectively; in the case of fungi, the main microorganisms are Neopestalotiopsis phangngaensis, Colletotrichum fructicola, and Thyrostroma jaczewskii with efficiencies of 54.34, 48.78, and 46.34%, in 90 days, respectively; and the most efficient microbial consortia were from Enterobacter spp. and Pantoea sp. with 38.00 – 81.00%, in 120 days; and, Pseudomonas protegens, Stenotrophomonas sp., B. vallismortis and Paenibacillus sp. with 55. 00 – 75.00% in 120 days. Conclusions The most efficient microorganisms in LDPE degradation are Enterobacter spp., Pantoea spp., Pseudomonas spp., Escherichia coli, and Bacillus spp.; in fungi Neopestalotiopsis phangngaensis, Colletotrichum fructicola, and Thyrostroma jaczewskii; and in microbial consortia, those formed by Enterobacter spp. and Pantoea sp., and that of P. protegens, Stenotrophomonas sp., B. vallismortis and Paenibacillus sp.; and the most effective techniques used in LDPE biodegradation are SEM, gravimetry, and FTIR.

Introduction The aim of the research was to demonstrate the efficiency of microorganisms and the effectiveness of biodegradation techniques on Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastics. The research question was: What is the efficiency of LDPE-degrading microorganisms and the effectiveness of biodegradation techniques? Methods The systematic review was based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Articles were obtained from Scopus, Web of Science (WOS), Embase, and Google Scholar. The DeCS/Mesh search terms were: Low-density polyethylene, efficiency, biodegradation, microbial consortia, fungi, bacteria. Inclusion criteria were: scientific articles that included bacteria, fungi, and microbial consortia reported as LDPE degraders that report the percentage of weight loss; articles published from January 2010 to October 2022, and publications in Spanish and English with open access. Exclusion criteria were: studies that do not report gravimetry, the biodegradation time of LDPE, and the genus or species of the polyethylene-degrading microorganism. Results Out of 483 studies found, 50 were included in this Systematic Review (SR). The most frequent study techniques were scanning electron microscopy (SEM), gravimetry, and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and in the case of microorganisms, the most studied belonged to the genus Pseudomonas, Bacillus, and Aspergillus. Regarding the isolation place, the most frequent mentioned in the reviewed articles were landfill soil and sanitary landfill soil. The efficiency of LDPE-degrading microorganisms was higher in bacteria such as Enterobacter spp., Pantoea spp., Pseudomonas spp., Escherichia coli, and Bacillus spp., which obtained a range of DE of 9.00-70.00%, 24.00-64%, 1.15 – 61.00%, 45.00%, and 1.5-40% with DT of 4-150, 120, 4-150, 30, and 30-120 days, respectively; in the case of fungi, the main microorganisms are Neopestalotiopsis phangngaensis, Colletotrichum fructicola, and Thyrostroma jaczewskii with efficiencies of 54.34, 48.78, and 46.34%, in 90 days, respectively; and the most efficient microbial consortia were from Enterobacter spp. and Pantoea sp. with 38.00 – 81.00%, in 120 days; and, Pseudomonas protegens, Stenotrophomonas sp., B. vallismortis and Paenibacillus sp. with 55. 00 – 75.00% in 120 days. Conclusions The most efficient microorganisms in LDPE degradation are Enterobacter spp., Pantoea spp., Pseudomonas spp., Escherichia coli, and Bacillus spp.; in fungi Neopestalotiopsis phangngaensis, Colletotrichum fructicola, and Thyrostroma jaczewskii; and in microbial consortia, those formed by Enterobacter spp. and Pantoea sp., and that of P. protegens, Stenotrophomonas sp., B. vallismortis and Paenibacillus sp.; and the most effective techniques used in LDPE biodegradation are SEM, gravimetry, and FTIR.

The physiological, immunological, and microbiological traits of 180 Ross-308 broiler chickens were examined in relation to supplementary soybean bioactive peptide (SBP) levels and vitamin E. Group 1 was the control group, Groups 2, 3, and 4 were given a basal diet along with 2.5, 5, and 7.5 g SBP kg-1 of diet, respectively, and Group 5 was given a basal diet together with 250 mg of vitamin E kg-1 of diet. An improvement in the globulin, albumin-to-globulin ratio, total antioxidant activity (except 7.5 g), SOD, and GSH-PX (except 7.5 g) activities in SBP treatment groups compared to the control. In comparison with control, feeding SBP improved bursa index, IgA, and IgG concentrations in blood serum. Feed supplementation with 5 g SBP significantly increased relative weight of spleen and IgM concentrations. Feeding SBP increased lactic acid bacteria in the ileum and caecum while decreasing E. coli counts in the ileum as compared with control. None of the selected serum biochemical indices, immune-related parameters, and total bacterial count were statistically different between the vitamin E group and the control. Therefore, 5 and 7.5 g of SBP kg-1 in a broiler diet was able to boost antioxidant status, antibacterial activity, and birds' immune response.

Poultry health problems of chickens are usually accompanied by bacterial systemic infections causing severe losses in flocks, sick birds were systemically could be infected by several bacteria regardless of the clinical signs. 16s RNA sequence is a modern approach for the diagnosis of bacterial infection, especially of multiple causative agents. Ten field cases suffering from systemic infections have been examined for bacterial causes, using conventional isolation and 16S rRNA sequencing, The ten sequenced samples were compatible with the results of isolation; six samples were similar to E.coli species with identity% = 97-99%, while it had similarity% < 96% with Salmonella enterica. While the other samples showed variable identity ranging from 94-99% with Salmonella enterica, E. coli, Enterobacter spp and Klebsiella spp In conclusion, although conventional isolation is the golden standard method for bacterial diagnosis, however, the 16s RNA sequencing has elaborated excellence in diagnosis and identification of bacterial infection, concerning the time consuming, detection of multicaused infections and sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pasteuria penetrans is a nonculturable bacterium that obligately parasitizes several species of phytopathogenic nematodes. Unknown endogenous female, plant or microbial reproductive factors are indispensable for multiplication and endospore formation of P. penetrans. Objective: To characterize P. penetrans endospores by 16S rRNA gene sequencing in samples from infected adult female Meloidogyne javanica and microbiota of infected and uninfected adult female M. javanica with P. penetrans by high-throughput sequencing of the V4 hypervariable region of the 16S rRNA gene. Methodology: Infected roots were collected from grapevines; fresh infective juvenile nematodes (J2) were extracted for P. penetrans endospore fixation and inoculation into tomato plants. Genomic and metagenomic DNA from infected and uninfected adult females of M. javanica was extracted for sequencing by sequencing the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene of P. penetrans and its bacterial microbiome. The generated sequences were processed using bioinformatics software for analyses of alpha and beta diversity indices of the bacterial microbiome. Results: An amplicon of 550 base pairs with 98% identity and homology to P. penetrans was obtained. The taxonomic profile revealed the highest bacterial diversity and richness in the microbiota related to infected adult females, with Proteobacteria occurring in both samples between 45 and 83%, followed by Firmicutes, Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes with 19, 11 and 8% respectively at the phylum level. Likewise, the most abundant genera associated with the native microbiota of the adult nematode were identified as Pseudomonas, Flavobacterium and Chitinophaga at 82.5, 15 and 2%, respectively. In infected females, Paenibacillus, Pasteuria, Pseudomonas and Streptomyces were recorded with 45, 7, 6 and 5% respectively, the most abundant. Implications: The results suggest the existence of bacterial genera in infected M. javanica females involved in the in vivo development of P. penetrans endospores. Conclusions: This would reveal a reduction of Pseudomonas dominance favoring the colonization of different bacteria that cohabit with P. penetrans, being this change in the microbial composition a possible factor that favors the multiplication of P. penetrans endospores within the host.

The article is devoted to the study of the sterilization of waste materials and animal feed meal. It was revealed that at the last stage of waste processing of animal origin, as a result of fine grinding in the crusher, feed meal of low biological value is obtained. As a result of research, a technology of multi-stage sterilization of raw materials has been developed with obtaining feed meal of animal origin of high biological value due to cooking-sterilization (stage 1), drying-sterilization (stage 2), steam sterilization (stage 3). As a result of the final sterilization, i.e. steam sterilization of feed meal from animal waste revealed that when the temperature drops below 110 °C and sterility is not achieved when the warm-up time is less than 25 minutes and when the temperature rises above 134 °C and the warm-up time is more than 50 minutes, the degradation of the sterilized materials begins. It is revealed that the total number of microbes in 1 g of flour is completely eliminated due to the use of multistage sterilization technology.

Background: Surgical site infections are one of the major clinical problems in surgical departments that cost hundreds of millions of dollars to healthcare systems around the world., Aim: The study aimed to address the pressing issue of surgical site infections, which pose significant clinical and financial burdens on healthcare systems globally. Recognizing the substantial costs incurred due to these infections, the research has focused on understanding the role of lipase and protease production by multi-drug resistant bacteria isolated from surgical wounds in the development of post-surgical wound infections., Methods: For these purposes, 153 pus specimens were collected from patients with severe post-surgical wound infections having prolonged hospital stays. The specimens were inoculated on appropriate culture media. Gram staining and biochemical tests were used for the identification of bacterial growth on suitable culture media after 24 hours of incubation. The isolated pathogens were then applied for lipase and protease, key enzymes that could contribute to wound development, on tributyrin and skimmed milk agar, respectively. Following the CSLI guidelines, the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method was used to assess antibiotic susceptibility patterns. The results revealed that a significant proportion of the samples (127 out of 153) showed bacterial growth of Gram-negative (n = 66) and Gram-positive (n = 61) bacteria. In total, isolated 37 subjects were declared MDR due to their resistance to three or more than three antimicrobial agents. The most prevalent bacteria were Staphylococcus aureus (29.13%), followed by S. epidermidis (18.89%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (18.89%), Escherichia coli (14.96%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (10.23%), and Proteus mirabilis (7.87%). Moreover, a considerable number of these bacteria exhibited lipase and protease activity with 70 bacterial strains as lipase positive on tributyrin agar, whereas 74 bacteria showed protease activity on skimmed milk agar with P. aeruginosa as the highest lipase (69.23%) and protease (76.92%) producer, followed by S. aureus (lipase 62.16% and protease 70.27%)., Results: The antimicrobial resistance was evaluated among enzyme producers and non-producers and it was found that the lipase and protease-producing bacteria revealed higher resistance to selected antibiotics than non-producers. Notably, fosfomycin and carbapenem were identified as effective antibiotics against the isolated bacterial strains. However, gram-positive bacteria displayed high resistance to lincomycin and clindamycin, while gram-negative bacteria were more resistant to cefuroxime and gentamicin., Conclusion: In conclusion, the findings suggest that lipases and proteases produced by bacteria could contribute to drug resistance and act as virulence factors in the development of surgical site infections. Understanding the role of these enzymes may inform strategies for preventing and managing post-surgical wound infections more effectively., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

The ingestion of germs which take part in the constitution of the intestinal flora is well documented in human history; in fact, as shown in several cave paintings, since the Neolithic Age, the changes in human habits to a lifestyle based on farming and breeding led many populations to the consumption of aliments containing fermented milk. The use of dairy products is also confirmed in the Holy Bible, in the Book of Genesis, and in the discovery of a mummy dating 1615 B.C., which was found in the Chinese desert of Taklamakan with some cheese in its mouth. In ancient Greece, Hippocrates described the nutritional importance of cheese for the athletes. Many years later, according to the legend, the prophet Muhammad donated to the ancestors of the mountaineers of Caucasus Kefir, a drink rich in lactic acid, bacteria, and probiotics which is obtained from the fermentation of milk. Marco Polo reported the use of a comparable drink, “Chemmisi”, during his journey to China. All these historical evidence suggests that the benefits derived from the consumption of probiotics were somehow noted to our ancestors, but the first scientific studies regarding this issue have been conducted by l’ja Il’ič Mečnikov (Charkiv, 05/16/1845 – Paris, 07/16/1916), who speculated a link between the longevity of the Bulgarian shepherds and the large consumption of yogurt, which contributed to the maintenance of balance in the intestinal flora and the inhibition of pathogen bacteria. It is nowadays documented that the benefits on health determined by probiotics consumption can be partly ascribed to their action on the Gut Microbiota, which also plays a major role in gastrointestinal, metabolic and neurodegenerative pathologies, in different ages and environmental conditions.

Kunu is a non-alcoholic Nigerian beverage produced locally from cereals and has been widely accepted as a nutritional drink due to its cost hence, the need for evaluation of its nutritional and safety status. In this study, proximate composition and microbial quality of Kunu drinks sold in Ikot Ekpene metropolis were evaluated. The results show that Kunu consists of 68.5% moisture, 9.33% crude protein, 5.5% crude fat, 3.14% ash and 49.2% carbohydrate while the calorie value was 283.67kcal. The Colony counts from theKunu samples ranged from 0.5×105to 3.2 ×105 for total coliform bacteria, 2.5×105 to 4.2×105 for total heterotrophic bacteria and 5.2×105 to 8.0×105 for total heterotrophic fungi for the three samples analyzed. Bacterial isolates identification revealed the presence of Bacillus sp, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Streptococcus sp, while the fungal isolates include; Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium sp, Fusarium sp and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The data revealed that all the Kunu drinks sold within the study area were contaminated and also contained different pathogenic microorganisms which can serve as sources of infections to human. Therefore, proper hygienic and sanitary measures need to be enforced during processing and packaging of this local beverage drink.

ABSTRACT Objective: Infection after total hip (THA) and knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a serious complication which typically leads to a long lasting and intensive surgical and medicamentous treatment. The aim of this study was to identify factors that influence outcome after revision surgery caused by prosthetic infection. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 64 patients who had revision surgery between 1989 and 2009 due to periprosthetic infection. We examined a total of 69 joints (TKA: 36%, THA: 64%), follow-up 5.1 years (0.5-21 years) after the initial surgical intervention. The mean patient age at time of surgery was 67 years old (43-79 years old). Clinical data and scores including the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC)-Index, the Harris Hip Score (HHS) and the Hospital for Special Surgery Score (HSS) were surveyed. Results: There was no difference in clinical scores regarding treatment between a single and a multiple stage treatment regime. Infections with multiple microorganisms and Enterococcus spp. lead to a significantly higher number of interventions. Using a modified Tsukayama system we classified 24% as type I, 34% type II and 42% type III- infections, with no differences in clinical outcome. Overweight patients had a significantly lower HHS and WOMAC-score. Immunosuppression leads to a worse WOMAC and HSS-Score. An increased number of procedures was associated to a limping gait. Conclusion: Thorough surgical technique leads to good clinical results independent of infection-type and treatment philosophy. Level of Evidence III, Case Control Study.

O Biodesign talvez seja uma das maiores alternativas na contemporaneidade para se repensarem processos produtivos da cadeia têxtil, recriando desde o próprio tecido a processos de beneficiamento. A presente pesquisa faz um levantamento dos estudos recentes relacionados à utilização de seres vivos na fabricação de artigos têxteis e exemplifica por meio de um experimento de tingimento em tecidos orgânicos utilizando bactérias, que além de repensar o processo, renova a estética do design de superfície atual.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of lake restoration by the hypolimnetic withdrawal method on the intensity of ambient odour in the vicinity of the pipeline outlet. The study was carried out in 2012-2013 from the beginning of the summer stagnation period in Lake Kortowskie to complete overturn in fall. Samples of river water and ambient air were collected from two sites: near the pipeline outlet (PO) and behind the academic campus (AC). A total of 44 air samples and 44 water samples were analysed. Odour intensity was measured in samples of ambient air. The following physicochemical parameters of water were determined: flow rate, dissolved oxygen (DO), hydrogen sulphide (H2S), sulphate (SO4), ammonium nitrogen (NH4-N), total nitrogen (TN), dissolved nitrogen (DN), total particulate nitrogen (T-PN), total organic carbon (TOC), dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and total particulate organic carbon (T-POC). Water samples were also analysed to determine total bacterial abundance (TBA) and the counts of bacterial rods, cocci and spiral-shaped bacteria, and sulphate-reducing bacteria (SRB). Significant variations in odour intensity were noted between years and sampling sites. Odour was significantly determined by the proportion of lake water in river water. It was also significantly correlated (P2S, NH4-N, TBA and counts of SRB, rod- and spiral-shaped bacteria only in.

The study was aimed at determining bacterial agents of the upper respiratory tract and the susceptibility patterns of isolates to antibiotics. The throat swab samples from 250 patients suspected of upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) were obtained from the General Medicine outpatient department of a Rural Health Centre of Rajah Muthiah Medical College and Hospital (RMMC and H), Annamalai University, Chidambaram, Tamilnadu, India and inoculated in the culture medium. The bacterial infection was confirmed only in 228 patients. The organisms isolated on medium were identified by their cultural, morphological and biochemical characteristics. Staphylococcus aureus was identified as the most prevalent bacterial isolate (45.61%) followed by β hemolytic streptococci (22.81%). Thirty four strains (14.91%) were identified as Klebsiella penumoniae, 19 (8.33%) as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the rest belonged to α hemolytic streptococci, Escherichia coli and Haemophilus influenzae. All Staphylococcus spp. were resistant to penicillin, ampicillin and co-trimoxazole. All the isolates were resistant to at least one antibiotic. The overall resistance rates were generally low for gentamicin, cefixime and ceftazidime respectively.

Plastic has high potency to become material that much threats human living in this earth, because made from chemical which cannot degraded by microbes in environment. The successful production and marketing of biodegradable plastics will help alleviate the problem of environmental pollution. One of biodegradable plastic that used in our live is polyethylene. This research reveals that local microbes capable to degrading of polyethylene. Biodegradation test was carried out by using bacteria in soil which was obtained from Gunung Tugel disposal center, Banyumas regency. Kind of polyethylene is LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene) which was obtained from Setiakawan Plastic Factory, Kalibogor, Purwokerto formed to thin film. Characterization of the polyethylene used weight loss percentage method, melting point determination and FTIR. Soil bacteria isolated from Gunung Tugel disposal center, Banyumas regency, obtained 5 single colonies, which coded GT. Bacteria isolate which have highest activity in degrading polyethylene was GT 3, with increasing the time of incubation. Weight loss percentage up to 2.33% in 1 month. Melting point of polyethylene after biodegradation was decreased that initially 210-220 °C into 210-213 °C. FTIR spectrophotometer result of polyethylene after biodegradation showed intensity for methylene and methyl cluster was decreased.

When microcantilevers are used in the dynamic mode, the resonance shift uponmaterial adsorption depends on the position of the adsorbate along the microcantilever. Wehave previously described that the adsorbate stiffness needs to be considered in addition toits mass in order to correctly interpret the resonance shift. Here we describe a method thatallows obtaining the Young’s modulus of the adsorbed bacteria derived from themeasurement of the frequency shift when adsorbates are placed close to the clampingregion. As a model system we have used E. Coli bacteria deposited on the cantileversurface by the ink-jet technique. We demonstrate that the correct information aboutadsorbed mass can be extracted by recording the cantilever profile and its resonanceresponse. Also, the position and extent of adsorbates is determined by recording themicrocantilever profile. We use a theoretical model based on the Euler – Bernouilliequation for a beam with both mass and flexural rigidity local increase due to the depositedmaterial.

Clothing worn in close proximity to the human axilla can retain and emanate human body odour even remaining odorous long after removal from the body. Intensity of odour is affected by the fibre type from which the garment is made. Headspace analysis of axillary volatile compounds released from three interlock fabrics (cotton, wool, polyester) following wear were measured using an online monitoring instrument, proton transfer reaction-mass spectrometry (PTR-MS). Compounds likely to be short-chain carboxylic acids increased in the headspace above the polyester fabrics after 7 days. This increase was not evident above either the wool or cotton fabrics. The intensity of axillary odour emanating from these fabrics was inversely related to fibre hygroscopicity. The relationship between a textile fibre/fabric's ability to retain and emanate odour is likely to be related to the metabolic versatility of resident microbial strains and/or the chemical and physical morphology of the fibre and its ability to absorb volatile compounds and precursors to odour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main aims of endodontic treatment is to eliminate micro-organisms from within the root canal system. A further aim is to prevent the ingress of any further bacteria during and after treatment. These aims are usually achieved by various means and stages throughout the treatment process. Endodontic treatment is usually performed on teeth that have lost the integrity of the external coronal tooth structure which has allowed bacteria to enter the tooth and ultimately reach the pulp space. Further opening of the tooth occurs when an endodontic access cavity is made to allow treatment to be performed. Hence, there will always be a need for interim and temporary restoration of teeth undergoing endodontic treatment. Many different materials and techniques have been proposed, and these proposals have been based on many research reports. The purposes of this article are to review the literature regarding the use of interim and temporary restorations, and to provide recommendations regarding such restorations for clinicians to follow when providing endodontic treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on a simple hands-on laboratory procedure for high school students in studying both radiation damage and DNA repair systems in bacteria. The sensitivity to ultra-violet (UV) radiation of both Escherichia coli and Serratia marcescens is tested by radiating them for varying time periods. Two growth temperatures are used in order to induce the production of the melanin-like pigment prodigiosin in Serratia marcescens. Several explanations are then suggested for the differences observed, including cellular DNA repair systems and the presence of the intracellular pigment prodigiosin. The experiment's results prove that the different sensitivities to radiation of both bacterial strains are caused by cellular DNA repair systems, and not by other cellular molecules, such as the pigment prodigiosin. The paper also suggests further laboratory investigations designed to enhance high school students' understanding of bacterial DNA repair systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Structural Proteomics In Europe (SPINE) programme is aimed at the development and implementation of high-throughput technologies for the efficient structure determination of proteins of biomedical importance, such as those of bacterial and viral pathogens linked to human health. Despite the challenging nature of some of these targets, 175 novel pathogen protein structures (∼220 including complexes) have been determined to date. Here the impact of several technologies on the structural determination of proteins from human pathogens is illustrated with selected examples, including the parallel expression of multiple constructs, the use of standardized refolding protocols and optimized crystallization screens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The soil bacterium Sphingomonas yanoikuyae was isolated from a petroleum-contaminated soil and grown on mineral salts agar overlaid with the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon phenanthrene. The effect of white mustard, Sinapis alba, on phenanthrene degradation by S. yanoikuyae in artificially contaminated Redi-earth-sand was examined. Solid-phase-microextraction (SPME) gas chromatography-flame ionization detection (GC-FID) was used to quantify the concentration of phenanthrene in the gas phase of Magenta jars containing S. alba and S. yanoikuyae, each alone and with no additions. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) of Soxhlet extracts was used to determine the concentration of phenanthrene remaining in Redi-earth-sand. The gas phase concentration of phenanthrene in nonsterile Redi-earth-sand decreased by 99.7% in treatments with S. alba plus S. yanoikuyae, by 98.6% with S. alba, by 96.7% with S. yanoikuyae, and by 95.8% with no additions. Under gnotobiotic conditions, the gas phase concentration of phenanthrene in Redi-earth-sand decreased by 94% in treatments with S. alba plus S. yanoikuyae, by 77% with S. yanoikuyae, by 26% with S. alba, and 0% with no additions. The concentration of phenanthrene in Redi-earth-sand under gnotobiotic conditions decreased in treatments with S. alba plus S. yanoikuyae by 88%, by 67% with S. yanoikuyae, by 13% with S. alba, and 0% with no additions as measured in Soxhlet extracts. These results suggest that SPME–GC can be used to rapidly assess the potential of plants and microorganisms to reduce the level of unaged polyaromatic hydrocarbons such as phenanthrene in soil. This method provided results that were consistent with the more costly Soxhlet extraction method and was less time consuming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the efficiency of diverting the initial 20-ml donation from the collection bag and of an improved donor-arm disinfection procedure in reducing bacterial contamination in blood. Donations were collected in bags specially manufactured for the study. These bags incorporated two satellite pouches into each of which 20 ml of blood was collected. Blood initially flowed into sample pouch P1, representing a diversion pouch. Pouch P2 was then filled with 20 ml of blood, which allowed us to sample the collection bag after diversion was complete. Blood then flowed into the standard collection bag. The contents of the pouches were aerobically and anaerobically cultured on the BacT/ALERT automated culture system for 7 days. Two procedures were investigated in the study (each involving 1409 blood donations): one analysed the current disinfection procedure; and the other analysed an improved donor-arm disinfection procedure. The use of diversion alone resulted in a 47% reduction in contamination, and improved donor-arm disinfection alone resulted in a 57% reduction in contamination. Diversion plus improved donor-arm disinfection produced a predicted 77% reduction in contamination. The study validates diversion and an improved donor-arm disinfection procedure. In combination, these two interventions produced a substantial reduction in contamination. These procedures are to be introduced by the English National Blood Service to enhance the safety of the blood supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometric detection was used for the structure elucidation of eighteen primary and secondary amines and ammonia derivatised with naphthylisothiocyanate (NIT). A fragmentation scheme was established using reference compounds and the scheme was applied to real air samples from a tyre repair shop and from the air above a bacterial culture. The sampling was performed using a solid sorbent, XAD-2, impregnated with NIT, and the derivatives were extracted with acetonitrile and analysed with LC-MS/MS. A three-step process was developed for screening and identifying of volatile amines. The first step, selected reaction monitoring; SRM was applied in order to screen the samples for NIT derivatives. In the second step, a precursor ion scan gave the [M+H]+ ion, and in the third step a product ion scan gave the fragments needed for identification. The detection limits varied between 0.12 and 0.25 ng μL-1 when screening for unknown derivatised amines. It was possible to separate and identify all the amines with the structural information obtained and the method proved to be general, sensitive and well suited for sampling and analysis of complex environmental samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various coatings currently used in wall panels for building applications were assessed. The hygienic properties of coatings were investigated by the ease of cleaning as well as in terms of their anti-fouling property. The surface energy of the coatings was calculated using the acid- base approach (according to van Oss, Chaudhury and Good). In our work, the results are found to be relatively consistent and we discriminated apolar, monopolar basic, or coatings with acid-base character. As far as the fouling aspect is concerned, the bacterial survival, expressed as percentage, is governed by environmental factors such as relative humidity and the presence of nutrients on coatings. In our experimental conditions, the surface properties of the coatings have been found to play a secondary role. On clean coatings, the percentage of survival increases with a decrease of the relative humidity. After 24 h of exposure to a wet environment, the survival is around 11-15% on poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) coatings with an acid-base character and an acidic parameter (γ[sub S][sup +] ≥ 0.1 mJ/m[sup 2]). The percentage of survival is twice as high as on monopolar basic coatings in the same environmental conditions. Nevertheless, it is 100% in a dry environment. On the other hand, on soiled coatings, the nutrients play a protective role in the bacterial survival as the percentage of survival is 100% in a wet environment and 60-78% in a dry environment. Regarding the ease of cleaning, the cleaning kinetics is ten times as fast on surfaces with an acid-base character as on highly monopolar basic coatings (with the basic parameter, γ[sub S][sup -]higher than 8 mJ/m[sup 2]). As a rule, the more the acid-base character of the coating surface, the easier it was to clean in our experimental conditions. This last point underscores the importance of controlling the coating cleaning and the necessity for proposing easy-to-clean materials in order to ensure hygiene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reef-building corals associate with a diverse array of eukaryotic and noneukaryotic microbes. Best known are dinoflagellates in the genus Symbiodinium ("zooxanthellae"), which are photosynthetic symbionts found in all reef-building corals. Once considered a single species, they are now recognized as several large, genetically diverse groups that often co-occur within a single host species or colony. Variation among Symbiodinium in host identities, tolerance to stress, and ability to colonize hosts has been documented, but there is little information on the ecology of zooxanthellar free-living stages and how different zooxanthellae perform as partners. Other microbial associates of reef corals are much less well known, but studies indicate that individual coral colonies host diverse assemblages of bacteria, some of which seem to have species-specific associations. This diversity of microbial associates has important evolutionary and ecological implications. Most mutualisms evolve as balanced reciprocations that allow partners to detect cheaters, particularly when partners are potentially diverse and can be transmitted horizontally. Thus, environmental stresses that incapacitate the ability of partners to reciprocate can destabilize associations by eliciting rejection by their hosts. Coral bleaching (the loss of zooxanthellae) and coral diseases, both increasing over the last several decades, may be examples of stress-related mutualistic instability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although Bacteria and Archaea reproduce by binary fission, exchange of genes among lineages has shaped the diversity of their populations and the diversification of their lineages. Gene exchange can occur by two distinct routes, each differentially impacting the recipient genome. First, homologous recombination mediates the exchange of DNA between closely related individuals (those whose sequences are sufficient similarly to allow efficient integration). As a result, homologous recombination mediates the dispersal of advantageous alleles that may rise to high frequency among genetically related individuals via periodic selection events. Second, lateral gene transfer can introduce novel DNA into a genome from completely unrelated lineages via illegitimate recombination. Gene exchange by this route serves to distribute genes throughout distantly related clades and therefore may confer complex abilities—not otherwise found among closely related lineages—onto the recipient organisms. These two mechanisms of gene exchange play complementary roles in the diversification of microbial populations into independent, ecologically distinct lineages. Although the delineation of microbial “species” then becomes difficult—if not impossible—to achieve, a cogent process of speciation can be predicted. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Bioaerosols have been found in many occupational environments, including animal feeding houses, poultry slaughter houses, and cotton textile plants. This study was undertaken to examine a group of bioaerosols, the endotoxins, fungi, and bacteria, inside two textile factories over 3 years in Taiwan, where temperature and humidity are usually high year-round. Airborne dust was collected with filter cassettes attached to personal pumps and analyzed by the Kinetic Limulus Assay with Resistant-parallel-line Estimation. For fungi and bacteria determination, samples were collected using duplicated single-stage impactors, and organisms were counted after incubation. Endotoxin was the ajor contamination inside textile plants. Indoor levels were substantially higher than outdoor concentrations by 63- to 278-fold. The average values of fungi inside and outside the plants were not significantly different. Airborne bacteria levels were higher inside the plants as compared to outside. The carding sites, using only cotton, had extremely high endotoxin levels, greater than those at sites using synthetic fibers. Cotton, may be a major source of endotoxin contamination. In conclusion, the early stage of textile processing seems to generate high endotoxin and bacteria contamination. Priorities should be given to occupational hygiene programs for workers at various sites in textile plants. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The symbiotic establishment of mycorrhizal fungi on plant roots is affected in various ways by the other microorganisms of the rhizosphere, and more especially b bacteria. This review discusses the case of some of these bacteria which consistently promote mycorrhizal development, kading to the concept of `mycorrhization' helper bacteria (MHBs). Examples of MHB evidence are given from the literature, with special reference to the Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menzeisii Mirb. Franco)-Latcaria laccala Scop. ex Fr. ectomycorrhizal combination which has been more extensively studied. The fungal specificity of some MHBs and the various mechanisms underlying their effect are discussed, considering five hypotheses: effects on the receptivity of the root, effects on the root-fungus recognition, effects on the fungal growth, modification of the rhizospheric soil, and effects on the germination of the fungal propagule. MHBs are then considered for their ecological and evolutionary implications, and examples of practical applications in forest nurseries are given: when added to the fungal inoculum, MHBs can improve the success of ectoniycorrhizal inoculation of planting stocks with fungi selected for their outstanding growth stimulation after ourplanting. The conclusion points out a number of fundamental questions which remain unanswered about mycorrhization helper bacteria and suggests some investigation priorities in this new field of mvcorrhiza research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferrets have been utilized in endodontic research to study periapical responses. However, various aspects of induction and healing of periapical pathosis in ferrets are unclear. This study evaluated the radiographic and histopathologic features of induced periapical lesions. Periapical pathosis was consistently produced in 8 canines of 2 ferrets by extirpating the pulp, leaving the cavities open for a week, then sealing for 12 weeks. The resulting lesions were evaluated radiographically every two weeks. The animals were then killed and the induced lesions evaluated histologically and histobacteriologically. Four untreated canines from 2 other ferrets were used as controls. Results showed that periapical rarefactions were visible in all teeth in the experimental group within 4 weeks. Histologically, the induced lesions consisted principally of a mononuclear inflammatory infiltrate, dominated by macrophages but with numerous lymphocytes. With Brown & Brenn staining, bacteria were demonstrated in the pulp space of teeth in which the lesions were induced and in the apical arborization of the canal system. Only one specimen had bacteria within the periapical lesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dilutions of Ledermix® paste, Pulpdent® paste and a mixture of equal parts by weight of Ledermix paste and Pulpdent paste were added to in vitro cultures of mouse fibroblasts or bacteria for 24 h, and various cell functions were then examined: mitosis in and survival of fibroblasts, and survival of Lactobacillus casei or Streptococcus mutans. Ledermix was found to reversibly inhibit mitosis while present in the concentrations range 10[SUP-3] to 10[SUP-6] mg/mi. Mixing with Pulpdent did not modify this antimitotic effect. Ledermix killed mouse uibroblasts at 10[SUP-3] mg/ml and above, while Pulpdent killed at 1 mg/ml and above. The toxic effect of Ledermix was slightly inhibited by mixing it with Pulpdent. Ledermix killed S. mutans at about the same concentration at which it killed the mammalian cells, but required a one thousand-fold greater concentration to kill L. casei. Pulpdent killed both L. casei and S. mutans at approximately one-fifth of the concentration at which it killed the mammalian cells. Pulpdent slightly potentiated the antibacterial effect of Ledermix. The pH of Pulpdent was reduced by approximately 0.3 units by mixing with Ledermix. The present data showed that the 50:50 mix of Ledermix and Pulpdent retained the properties examined that are thought to be of therapeutic benefit, while not increasing the toxicity of the component parts to mammalian cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To describe nutrient and biofilm dynamics in interstitial habitats of riffles (in a downwelling - upwelling sequence), oxygen, nitrate, dissolved organic carbon (DOC) contents, bacterial abundances, hydrolytic and deshydrogenasic activities of biofilms were studied for 18 months in two geomorphologically contrasting riffles of a regulated channel of the Rhône river (a 7th-order stream). The first one was located in an section of the channel affected by river bed incision, whereas the other section has only been slightly impacted by river bed incision. During the transit of surface water through river bed sediments, oxygen consumption, DOC immobilization, and nitrate production were observed especially during the warm seasons when biofilm activity was high. Organic matter decomposition by interstitial biofilms may induce nitrate release by mineralization and nitrification. When the oxygen content decreased strongly during summer, exceptional nitrate depletion occurred in the sediments due to denitrification. A comparison with the Maple River, a 3rd-order stream (Hendricks, 1993) highlights that differences were mostly linked to the origin of groundwater, to differences in stream order (high quantities of nutrients), and to local geomorphological characteristics (heterogeneity in fine sediments and total organic matter - TOM - deposition). River bed incision might induce (1) weak biofilm development and activities in the sediment, (2) changes in vertical distribution of bacteria and biofilm activities, (3) marked temporal variations of biofilm activities, and (4) decrease of sediment efficiency in oxygen consumption, DOC immobilization, and nitrate production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite major advances in the fight against this parasitic disease, malaria remained a major cause of concern in 2021. This infection, mainly due to Plasmodium falciparum, causes more than 200 million cases every year and hundreds of thousands deaths in the developing regions, mostly in Africa. The last statistics show an increase in the cases for the third consecutive year; from 211 million in 2015, it has reached 229 million in 2019. This trend could be partially explained by the appearance of resistance to all the used antimalarials, including artemisinin. Thus, the design of new anti- Plasmodium compounds is an urgent need. For thousands of years, nature has offered humans medicines to cure their diseases or the inspiration for the development of new active principles. It then seems logical to explore the natural sources to find new molecules to treat this parasitosis., Methods: Therefore, this review reports and analyzes the extracts (plants, bacteria, sponges, fungi) and the corresponding isolated compounds, showing antiplasmodial properties between 2013 and 2019., Results and Conclusion: Nature remains a major source of active compounds. Indeed, 648 molecules from various origins, mostly plants, have been reported for their inhibitory effect on Plasmodium falciparum. Among them, 188 scaffolds were defined as highly active with IC 50 ≤ 5 μM, and have been reported here in detail. Moreover, the most active compounds showed a large variety of structures, such as flavonoids, triterpenes, and alkaloids. Therefore, these compounds could be an interesting source of inspiration for medicinal chemists; several of these molecules could become the next leads for malaria treatment., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

Background: Proper identification of the causative organism in pediatric sepsis is crucial for early diagnosis and prevention of septic shock and organ failure., Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection of Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia from positive blood cultures for these pathogens isolated from children with hospital- acquired sepsis compared to the conventional biochemical reactions for identification of these organisms., Methods: This study was a cross-sectional study performed on 100 isolates from pediatric blood cultures, including Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. The study also included 100 isolates of Escherichia coli as a negative control. All isolates were identified by API 20NE and the multiplex PCR with primers specific to the 3 tested bacteria., Results: Multiplex PCR was positive in 96% of isolates and 4 isolates had negative results. Falsepositive results were reported with three E. coli strains. Multiplex PCR identified all the isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii, 29 isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 27 isolates of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. The diagnostic value of the multiplex PCR compared to the biochemical identification revealed sensitivity 96.04%, specificity 96.9%, positive predictive value 97.00%, negative predictive value 96.00% and accuracy 96.50%., Conclusion: The present study highlights the diagnostic value of multiplex PCR to identify Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia from positive blood cultures. Multiplex PCR was sensitive, specific and accurate. The accuracy differs according to the organisms with 100% accuracy for Acinetobacter baumannii., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)