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Meat delicatessen products, including pâtés, are important for consumers' daily diets. However, due to the complex recipe composition, pâtés can also contain allergens such as gluten. Simultaneously, powdered edible insects are increasingly used to reformulate food products. Therefore, the paper aimed to investigate the feasibility of replacing wheat flour (total content: 9% w/w) with yellow mealworm powder (3:0, 2:1, 1:2, and 0:3) in chicken and pork pâtés and determine its effect on their quality properties. The rheological properties of pâté batter, as well as texture, color parameters, and microbiological and sensory characteristics of pâtés, were assessed. All prepared pâté batters were identified as weak gels. Furthermore, all the examined pâtés met the microbiological quality requirements. Adding yellow mealworm powder to the formulation weakened the pâté structure, resulting in significantly lower shear force and increased spreadability. In addition, it led to a darker and more gray color of the pâtés. It may be seen as indicating no preservatives or as resembling a typical pork pâté. It has been demonstrated that the complete replacement of wheat flour with insect powder significantly reduced the sensory quality of chicken and pork pâtés. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The prevalence of biliary tract diseases, which are common gastrointestinal disorders, is steadily rising. If it progresses to sepsis or septic shock, it can endanger the patient's life. Therefore, it is crucial to promptly diagnose bacterial infection in individuals suffering from biliary diseases and comprehend the risk factors associated with infection. The objective of this study was to examine the types of bacteria present in the bile of patients with biliary tract diseases, assess any alterations in their susceptibility to antimicrobial agents, and identify the risk factors contributing to the development of infection in these patients. Patients and methods: From June 2019 to November 2022, 317 patients of biliary tract diseases with positive bile culture were included in this hospital-based descriptive analysis. The hospital's computerized medical records were used to collect data on demographic information (including gender, age, and occupation), laboratory, and clinical findings, physical examination results, comorbidities, basic diseases, treatment history, complications, and in-hospital outcomes. The study followed the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) principles. Results: Of the 317 patients with positive biliary tract diseases, 247 had benign diseases and 70 had malignant diseases. Patients with benign disease experienced a higher prevalence of statistically significant symptoms such as abdominal pain (81.4% vs. 57.1%, P = 0.000), nausea (31.2% vs. 14.3%, P = 0.005), vomiting (30.0% vs. 12.9%, P = 0.004), and chills (10.9% vs. 2.9%, P = 0.039), while jaundice (12.6% vs. 37.1%, P = 0.000) was more common in patients with malignant disease. At the species level, Escherichia coli (105; 40.5%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (41; 15.8%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (30; 11.6%) were the most commonly found Gram-negative bacterial strains in biliary tract infection. Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were most susceptible to tigecycline, ertapenem and ceftazidime/avibactam, respectively. Conclusion: Gram-negative bacteria are the most commonly isolated biliary bacteria. Clinical doctors should pay attention to patients with malignant diseases with low hemoglobin, high total bilirubin and high alkaline phosphatase. Carbapenems, tigecycline, and minocycline are the recommended antibiotics for Enterobacteriaceae. In recent years, the proportion of enterococcus has gradually increased, and clinical attention should be paid to enterococcus infection. Linezolid and vancomycin were recommended for the treatment of Enterococci infections. Overall, this work can provide reference for clinical diagnosis, treatment and effective interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Purpose The prevalence of biliary tract diseases, which are common gastrointestinal disorders, is steadily rising. If it progresses to sepsis or septic shock, it can endanger the patient's life. Therefore, it is crucial to promptly diagnose bacterial infection in individuals suffering from biliary diseases and comprehend the risk factors associated with infection. The objective of this study was to examine the types of bacteria present in the bile of patients with biliary tract diseases, assess any alterations in their susceptibility to antimicrobial agents, and identify the risk factors contributing to the development of infection in these patients. Patients and methods From June 2019 to November 2022, 317 patients of biliary tract diseases with positive bile culture were included in this hospital-based descriptive analysis. The hospital's computerized medical records were used to collect data on demographic information (including gender, age, and occupation), laboratory, and clinical findings, physical examination results, comorbidities, basic diseases, treatment history, complications, and in-hospital outcomes. The study followed the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) principles. Results Of the 317 patients with positive biliary tract diseases, 247 had benign diseases and 70 had malignant diseases. Patients with benign disease experienced a higher prevalence of statistically significant symptoms such as abdominal pain (81.4% vs. 57.1%, P = 0.000), nausea (31.2% vs. 14.3%, P = 0.005), vomiting (30.0% vs. 12.9%, P = 0.004), and chills (10.9% vs. 2.9%, P = 0.039), while jaundice (12.6% vs. 37.1%, P = 0.000) was more common in patients with malignant disease. At the species level, Escherichia coli (105; 40.5%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (41; 15.8%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (30; 11.6%) were the most commonly found Gram-negative bacterial strains in biliary tract infection. Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were most susceptible to tigecycline, ertapenem and ceftazidime/avibactam, respectively. Conclusion Gram-negative bacteria are the most commonly isolated biliary bacteria. Clinical doctors should pay attention to patients with malignant diseases with low hemoglobin, high total bilirubin and high alkaline phosphatase. Carbapenems, tigecycline, and minocycline are the recommended antibiotics for Enterobacteriaceae. In recent years, the proportion of enterococcus has gradually increased, and clinical attention should be paid to enterococcus infection. Linezolid and vancomycin were recommended for the treatment of Enterococci infections. Overall, this work can provide reference for clinical diagnosis, treatment and effective interventions.

Wei Tang,1,2,* Ying Liu,3,* Xin Li,2 Guiyun Leng,2 Ju Gao,2 Yawu Wang,2 Jie Yao,2 Zhou Liu,2 Qiang Zhou,2 Yuanhong Xu1 1Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, People’s Republic of China; 3High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Yuanhong Xu, Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, 218 Jixi Road, Shushan District, Hefei, Anhui, 230022, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 135 0569 4447, Fax +86 551 6292 2125, Email xyhong1964@ahmu.edu.cnPurpose: This study aimed to investigate the microbiological characteristics of clinically isolated Staphylococcus aureus with different hemolytic phenotypes in China.Materials and Methods: Using the three-point inoculation method, the hemolytic phenotypes of 1295 clinically isolated S. aureus strains were detected and categorized. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of all strains was performed using a VITEK 2 Compact System. After sample size matching, plasma coagulase activity, catalase activity, mRNA expression of hemolysin genes (hla, hlb, hlc, and hld), biofilm formation, growth kinetics, inflammatory response of macrophages and cytotoxicity of S. aureus with different hemolytic phenotypes using the rabbit plasma kit, the catalase test on slides, qRT-PCR, crystal violet staining, the microcultivation assay, the ELISA kits, and the CCK-8 assay, respectively.Results: Seven categories of hemolytic phenotypes were identified. Accordingly, strains were categorized into seven different groups, including S. aureus with complete hemolytic phenotype (SCHP), S. aureus with weak hemolytic phenotype (SWHP), S. aureus with incomplete hemolytic phenotype 1 (SIHP-1), SIHP-2, SIHP-3, SIHP-4 and SIHP-5, the last three of which were reported for the first time. Except for the hemolytic phenotype, all seven groups differed in clinical isolation rates, antibiotic resistance profile, plasma coagulase activity, mRNA expression of hemolysin genes, biofilm formation, growth kinetics, inflammatory response of macrophages, and cytotoxicity.Conclusion: S. aureus with different hemolytic phenotypes have distinctive microbiological characteristics. Clinical microbiologists need to be vigilant about the hemolytic phenotypes when culturing S. aureus strains, and actively enhance communication with clinicians to optimize the treatment of infection.Keywords: Staphylococcus aureus, hemolytic phenotype, hemolysin, microbiological characteristics, antibiotic resistance

The popularity of bottled drinking water stems from its convenience and purity, driving its rapid growth, but concerns about safety and quality persist. Physicochemical and microbiological parameters of bottled drinking in Dodoma City were evaluated from September to December 2023. Additionally, key informant interviews and questionnaire surveys were conducted with government regulators, producers, and consumers on regulatory frameworks, production processes, and consumer perceptions. Overall, all brands tested were suitable for drinking and met World Health Organization and Tanzania Bureau of Standards guidelines. The total dissolved solids (F = 0.86, p < 0.05), calcium (F = 5.26, p < 0.05) and chloride (F = 0.32, p < 0.05) were significantly different, while other parameters were not (p > 0.05) between measured and labelled values. The total viable and coliform counts in two brands (10%) of water were higher than the suggested levels of 100 cfu/ml and 0 cfu/ml, respectively. Bottling companies reported observance of quality control measures (93%), adherence to regulations (91%), transparency in production processes (86%), and consumer awareness of labels, expiration dates, and trust in the bottled water industry (95%). Public awareness, inspection, and testing of bottled water, as well as strengthening the existing framework, are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meat delicatessen products, including pâtés, are important for consumers’ daily diets. However, due to the complex recipe composition, pâtés can also contain allergens such as gluten. Simultaneously, powdered edible insects are increasingly used to reformulate food products. Therefore, the paper aimed to investigate the feasibility of replacing wheat flour (total content: 9% w/w) with yellow mealworm powder (3:0, 2:1, 1:2, and 0:3) in chicken and pork pâtés and determine its effect on their quality properties. The rheological properties of pâté batter, as well as texture, color parameters, and microbiological and sensory characteristics of pâtés, were assessed. All prepared pâté batters were identified as weak gels. Furthermore, all the examined pâtés met the microbiological quality requirements. Adding yellow mealworm powder to the formulation weakened the pâté structure, resulting in significantly lower shear force and increased spreadability. In addition, it led to a darker and more gray color of the pâtés. It may be seen as indicating no preservatives or as resembling a typical pork pâté. It has been demonstrated that the complete replacement of wheat flour with insect powder significantly reduced the sensory quality of chicken and pork pâtés.

Purpose: To investigate the differences in microbiological characteristics, risk factors, drug resistance, and visual outcomes in three infections: fungal keratitis with hypopyon (FKH), keratitis-related fungal endophthalmitis (FKE), and fungal endophthalmitis without keratitis (FE). Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study. Results: In total, 14.57% of eyes with FKH progressed to endophthalmitis. Hypopyon, pre-existence of lens problems, topical steroid use and sever keratitis were significantly associated with the development of FKE. The risk factors of the FKH and FE group were mainly plant trauma and open globe trauma, respectively. Keratitis-related endophthalmitis (FKE) showed a significantly higher resistance than the other two groups. The FKH group had the best final visual acuity, while the FKE group had the worst. Conclusion: Hypopyon height, pre-existing lens problems, topical steroid use and sever keratitis are risk factors for progression to endophthalmitis in eyes with fungal keratitis, and its progression is not affected by a single fungus. The antifungal drugs resistance in patients with endophthalmitis related to keratitis was significantly higher than that associated with other reasons. Timely diagnosis and risk factor assessment are essential for ensuring early treatment of FKE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbiological etiology has been associated with surgery for infective endocarditis (IE) during admission, especially Staphylococcus aureus. We aimed to compare patient characteristics, microbiological characteristics, and outcomes by treatment choice (surgery or not). We identified patients with first-time IE between 2010 and 2020 and examined the microbiological etiology of IE according to treatment choice. To identify factors associated with surgery during initial admission, we used the Aalen–Johansen estimator and an adjusted cause-specific Cox model. One-year mortality stratified by microbiological etiology and treatment choice was assessed using unadjusted Kaplan–Meier estimates and an adjusted Cox proportional hazard model. A total of 6255 patients were included, of which 1276 (20.4%) underwent surgery during admission. Patients who underwent surgery were younger (65 vs. 74 years) and less frequently had cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. Patients with Staphylococcus aureus IE were less likely to undergo surgery during admission (13.6%) compared to all other microbiological etiologies. One-year mortality according to microbiological etiology in patients who underwent surgery was 7.0%, 5.3%, 5.5%, 9.6%, 13.2, and 11.2% compared with 24.2%, 19.1%, 27,6%, 25.2%, 21%, and 16.9% in patients who received medical therapy for Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus spp., Enterococcus spp., coagulase-negative Staphylococci, "other microbiological etiologies", and blood culture-negative infective endocarditis, respectively. Patients with IE who underwent surgery differed in terms of microbiology, more often having Streptococci than those who received medical therapy. Contrary to expectations, Staphylococcus aureus was more common among patients who received medical therapy only. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to screen and investigate the microbiological characteristics, enzyme activity, and physiological functionality of unrecorded wild yeasts from the Wolsung valley of South Deogyu mountain and Jinjamcheon in Daejeon city, Korea. Candida sorboxylosa WSC25-4 (NNIBRFG47336), Arxula adeninivorans WSC6-3 (NNIBRFG47335), Farysizyma taiwaniana JRC6-2 (NNIBRFG47339), Saturnispora dispora JTS19-1 (NNIBRFG47334), Vanderwaltozyma polyspora JJCH5-3 (NNIBRFG47337), and Vanrija fragicola SW-9(NNIBRFG47338) have not been previously recorded. None of these formed spores or pseudo-mycelium, and four strains, including C.sorboxylosaWSC25-4, were global in shaped. Except for V. polyspora JJCH5-3, all strains grew well in the yeast extract-peptone-dextrose (YPD), potato-dextrose, and yeast malt extract media. A. adeninivorans WSC6-3 and S. dispora JTS19-1 grew well in 40% glucose-containing YPD medium and V. fragicola SW-9 in 5% NaCl-containing YPD medium. The supernatant of A. adeninivorans WSC6-3, F. taiwaniana JRC6-2, and V. fragicola SW-9 exhibited 58.0, 59.0, and 59.0% of glucoamylase activity, respectively. C.sorboxylosaWSC25-4 also produced extracellular alkaline protease. Antioxidant activity of the supernatant from F. taiwanian JRC6-2 was high (79.8%), while the other five unrecorded yeasts demonstrated elevated antiaging superoxide dismutase (SOD)-like activity (99%). Anti-gout xanthin oxidase inhibitory activity of S. dispora JTS19-1 and V. fragicola SW-9 was also elevated at 79 and 80%, respectively.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the chemical, proteolysis, microbiological, colour and textural characteristics of Serbian Kačkavalj cheese in order to determine the variability degree between cheeses, compare their properties to other similar ‘Pasta Filata’ cheeses and to determine if they comply to the regulative requirements. A broad range of variations of cheese characteristics was found among Kačkavalj cheeses. The composition showed high variations: dry matter ranged from 51.52% to 58.71%; fat from 20.00% to 29.50%; fat in dry matter from 36.08% to 55.96%; NaCl from 0.93% to 3.69%; total protein from 23.25% to 30.79%. The proteolysis parameters in Kačkavalj cheeses differed significantly. The colour evaluation showed significant differences in a* and b* values, however in L* values there were no significant differences (p>0.05). The traditional Kačkavalj cheese represents the part of national heritage; thus, the comprehensive characterization was conducted to investigate quality variations between Serbian Kačkavalj cheeses. The study identified that term Kačkavalj is used despite some cheeses are not fully compliant with the National Standard. The control of fulfilling the requirements of the National Standard should be improved, as well as raising awareness and prevention of inadequate cheese labelling.

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the microbiological characteristics of bread dough and the nutritional quality of “Tabnen-naow,” an ethnic artisan bread consumed mainly in Burkina Faso. Originating in Boussé, this bread is spreading to the outskirts of Ouagadougou for several reasons, such as the increase in the price of industrial bread and especially the supposed low glycemic index of artisan bread. However, there is insufficient information in the literature about the nutritional quality and technology of artisan bread in Burkina Faso. For this purpose, surveys were conducted among artisan bakers in five artisan bread production units in Ouagadougou, using survey forms to draw the production diagram. The microbiological characteristics of bread dough were evaluated using standard microbiology methods. Lastly, the nutritional quality of ethnic artisan bread was determined using standard techniques. All the bakers were male, between 22 and 34 years old, with an average age of 27.8 ± 5.1 years. They all used wheat flour, mainly (80%) from the Grand Moulin du Faso (GMF). The Baker’s dough fermentation was done at room temperature using dry or lyophilized yeast. The interesting microorganisms (yeasts, lactic acid bacteria) were present in all the bread dough samples. The yeast (2.5 108 CFU/g) and lactic acid bacteria (2.27 107 CFU/g) were abundant apart from the one bread dough, which had a low lactic acid bacterial load. The ethnic artisan bread contains carbohydrates (88.20–89.05%), proteins (9.60–10.60%), and minerals such as iron (11.56 to 89.27 mg/kg), calcium (00.00–290.03 mg/kg), and zinc (69.18 ± 36.74 to 389.10 ± 32.89 mg/kg). The nutritional composition revealed that ethnic artisan bread could contribute significantly to a healthy diet and food security.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the chemical, proteolysis, microbiological, colour and textural characteristics of Serbian Kačkavalj cheese in order to determine the variability degree between cheeses, compare their properties to other similar ‘Pasta Filata’ cheeses and to determine if they comply to the regulative requirements. A broad range of variations of cheese characteristics was found among Kačkavalj cheeses. The composition showed high variations: dry matter ranged from 51.52 % to 58.71 %; fat from 20.00 % to 29.50 %; fat in dry matter from 36.08 % to 55.96 %; NaCl from 0.93 % to 3.69 %; total protein from 23.25 % to 30.79 %. The proteolysis parameters in Kačkavalj cheeses differed significantly. The colour evaluation showed significant differences in a* and b* values, however in L* values there were no significant differences (p>0.05). The traditional Kačkavalj cheese represents the part of national heritage; thus, the comprehensive characterization was conducted to investigate quality variations between Serbian Kačkavalj cheeses. The study identified that term Kačkavalj is used despite some cheeses are not fully compliant with the National Standard. The control of fulfilling the requirements of the National Standard should be improved, as well as raising awareness and prevention of inadequate cheese labelling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the microbiological characteristics of bread dough and the nutritional quality of "Tabnen-naow," an ethnic artisan bread consumed mainly in Burkina Faso. Originating in Boussé, this bread is spreading to the outskirts of Ouagadougou for several reasons, such as the increase in the price of industrial bread and especially the supposed low glycemic index of artisan bread. However, there is insufficient information in the literature about the nutritional quality and technology of artisan bread in Burkina Faso. For this purpose, surveys were conducted among artisan bakers in five artisan bread production units in Ouagadougou, using survey forms to draw the production diagram. The microbiological characteristics of bread dough were evaluated using standard microbiology methods. Lastly, the nutritional quality of ethnic artisan bread was determined using standard techniques. All the bakers were male, between 22 and 34 years old, with an average age of 27.8 ± 5.1 years. They all used wheat flour, mainly (80%) from the Grand Moulin du Faso (GMF). The Baker's dough fermentation was done at room temperature using dry or lyophilized yeast. The interesting microorganisms (yeasts, lactic acid bacteria) were present in all the bread dough samples. The yeast (2.5 108 CFU/g) and lactic acid bacteria (2.27 107 CFU/g) were abundant apart from the one bread dough, which had a low lactic acid bacterial load. The ethnic artisan bread contains carbohydrates (88.20–89.05%), proteins (9.60–10.60%), and minerals such as iron (11.56 to 89.27 mg/kg), calcium (00.00–290.03 mg/kg), and zinc (69.18 ± 36.74 to 389.10 ± 32.89 mg/kg). The nutritional composition revealed that ethnic artisan bread could contribute significantly to a healthy diet and food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edible coatings that have a recognized ecological effect are an alternative to retard the processes of moisture evaporation and mold growth in bakery products. The aim of the present research was to study the influence of Malva sylvestris L. (mallow) flowers' extract on the antimicrobial activity of edible coatings of three types of polysaccharides, pectin/P/, xanthan/X/ and carboxymethylcellulose/C/, as well as to analyze their effect on the freshness and microbiological status of coated small loaves during storage. It was found that the presence of a mallow extract had a positive effect on the fungicidal and yeasticidal activities of the X and C coatings. The loaves were evaluated for their physical (moisture, color), textural (firmness and crumb firming kinetics) and microbiological characteristics. The coatings (P, X and C) with mallow extract had the strongest moisture-retaining effect on the loaves' crumb. The coatings with X and with P (with/without mallow extract) significantly slowed down the crumb firming process, and the value of the rate constant for the crumb firming (k) is the lowest for the X coating—0.1815 day−1. The smallest changes in the crust color were reported when mallow-based coatings were used. They have also been proven to have the lowest microbial load when they are stored for up to three days. This study shows that polysaccharide edible coatings with an active mallow component have significant potential to extend the shelf life of bakery products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to isolate wild yeasts from seawaters and soils samples of the Haeundae and Mongdol beaches on the southern coast of Korea, and to characterize these unrecorded wild yeast strains. In total, 41 strains, representing 37 different species of wild yeast were isolated from 70 samples collected from the beaches. Among these, 14 strains were isolated from the alkalophilic medium of yeast extract-peptone-dextrose (YPD) medium (pH 9.0), and 27 strains were isolated concurrently on general YPD medium (pH 6.5). Among the 41 isolated wild yeast strains, Candida insectorum HUD 16-3(JSL-KSS-002) and Metschnikowia citriensis HUD 12-5(JSL-KSS-001) had not previously been recorded. We investigated the microbiological characteristics of these two unrecorded yeast strains and three other strains-, Cystobasidium lysinophilum JSC 52-2(JSL-GGU-019), Candida takata NMD 11-1(JSL-GGU-017) and Candida panamensis ASG 58M-2(JSL-GGU-018) from Jangseoncheon in Jellabuk-do and Jangtaesan in Deajeon city. All five previously unrecorded yeasts were oval and did not form spores. All strains grew well in YPD and yeast extract-malt extract media in a vitamin-free medium. Two strains, including C. insectorum HUD 16-3(JSL-KSS-002) grew well in a 15% NaCl-containing YPD medium. Three strains, including Cys. lysinophilum JSC52-2(JSL-GGU-019) assimilated lactose, and all strains assimilated starch.

Microbiological etiology has been associated with surgery for infective endocarditis (IE) during admission, especially Staphylococcus aureus. We aimed to compare patient characteristics, microbiological characteristics, and outcomes by treatment choice (surgery or not). We identified patients with first-time IE between 2010 and 2020 and examined the microbiological etiology of IE according to treatment choice. To identify factors associated with surgery during initial admission, we used the Aalen–Johansen estimator and an adjusted cause-specific Cox model. One-year mortality stratified by microbiological etiology and treatment choice was assessed using unadjusted Kaplan–Meier estimates and an adjusted Cox proportional hazard model. A total of 6255 patients were included, of which 1276 (20.4%) underwent surgery during admission. Patients who underwent surgery were younger (65 vs. 74 years) and less frequently had cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. Patients with Staphylococcus aureus IE were less likely to undergo surgery during admission (13.6%) compared to all other microbiological etiologies. One-year mortality according to microbiological etiology in patients who underwent surgery was 7.0%, 5.3%, 5.5%, 9.6%, 13.2, and 11.2% compared with 24.2%, 19.1%, 27,6%, 25.2%, 21%, and 16.9% in patients who received medical therapy for Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus spp., Enterococcus spp., coagulase-negative Staphylococci, “other microbiological etiologies”, and blood culture-negative infective endocarditis, respectively. Patients with IE who underwent surgery differed in terms of microbiology, more often having Streptococci than those who received medical therapy. Contrary to expectations, Staphylococcus aureus was more common among patients who received medical therapy only.

Purpose: To compare the clinical and microbiological characteristics in patients with bacterial keratitis with hypopyon (BKH), bacterial keratitis-related endophthalmitis (BKE), and bacterial endophthalmitis without keratitis (BE). Methods: Data from all inpatients who were clinically diagnosed with BKH, BKE, and BE from 2018 to 2020 were collected retrospectively. The demographics, predisposing risk factors, clinical characteristics, microbiological profiles, and antibiotic susceptibility of the patients were evaluated. Results: Approximately 9.46% (28/296) of eyes with BKH progressed to endophthalmitis. The hypopyon (OR = 5.35, 95% CI: 2.17–7.08) and corneal perforation (OR = 2.47, 95% CI: 1.04–4.86) were significantly related to the development of BKE. The odds ratios for hypopyon of less than 1 mm, 1–3 mm, and greater than 3 mm were 1, 2.09 (95% CI: 1.17–3.15), and 4.12 (95% CI:2.59–5.68), respectively. The predominant causative pathogen was Staphylococcus epidermidis (36.43%, 38.89%), followed by Streptococci (14.73%, 16.67%), Staphylococcus aureus (8.53%, 7.79%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (9.30%, 7.14%) in eyes with BKH and BE. However, the main pathogens were Pseudomonas aeruginosa (37.50%) and Staphylococcus aureus (31.25%) in eyes with BKE. In the BKH, BKE, and BE groups, almost 100% of Staphylococcus aureus isolates were sensitive to vancomycin (97.70%, 100%, 95.56%), about a half were sensitive to fluoroquinolones (51.85%, 39.90%, 62.34%), and approximately 30% were sensitive to trimethoprim/sulfa (27.77%, 21.56%, 33.56%) and cefazolin (41.47%, 20.31%, 38.81%). The susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to fluoroquinolones antibiotics was 55.75%, 66.67%, and 62.58%, respectively, in the three groups. Conclusions: The height of hypopyon and corneal perforation are risk factors for progression to endophthalmitis in eyes with bacterial keratitis. When Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are identified, vigilance is required for advanced endophthalmitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) can cause a multitude of infectious diseases in humans and animals. In this study, we isolated and identified a strain of K. pneumoniae from Hainan Black goat by using conventional microbiology techniques. Through these and combined with the RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) method, the molecular mechanism of the interaction between K. pneumoniae and animals was able to be better understood. The pathogenic mechanism of K. pneumoniae to animals was explored by establishing the mouse infection model. Our results revealed that K. pneumoniae induced bacteremia and mild pulmonary inflammation in mice by intraperitoneal injection. These results provided a theoretical foundation for subsequent diagnosis and treatment research on the diseases caused by K. pneumoniae. K. pneumoniae is an opportunistic pathogen that leads to widespread infection in humans and animals, seriously threatening human health and animal husbandry development. In our research, we investigated the biological characteristics of the isolate by using a 16S rRNA gene sequencing, biochemical assay, and drug sensitivity test. Moreover, the pathogenicity study, including the bacteria load determination, the histopathology examination, and the RNA sequencing was carried out to explore whether the isolate could cause lung injury in mice through intraperitoneal injection. The results indicated that the isolate was identified as K. pneumoniae and named as KPHN001. The drug susceptibility test showed that KPHN001 was only sensitive to polymyxin B and furazolidone, and was resistant to other 28 antibiotics. In the bacteria load determination, the highest bacterial load of the organs was found in the spleen, and abundant bacterial colonization was also found in the lung. The histopathology showed the mainly acute inflammations in the lung were due to congestion, edema, and exudation. RNA-seq analysis revealed that the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines were expressed massively in mice. In the present research, the biological characteristics and pathogenesis of clinically isolated K. pneumoniae were systematically studied, revealing the pathogenic mechanism of K. pneumoniae to animals, and providing a theoretical basis for the following prevention, control, and diagnosis research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to isolate wild yeasts from water and soil sample of the Nonsan stream and Sapgyoho (lake) in Chungcheonnam-do, Korea, and to further characterize previously unrecorded wild yeast strains. In total, 102 strains, representing 55 different species of wild yeast were isolated from 95 samples collected from the Jangseoncheon and Ipchoncheon of Nonsan stream in Jellabuk-do and Chungcheonnam-do. Among these, 33 strains were isolated from alkalophilic yeast extract-peptone-dextrose (YPD) medium (pH 9.0), and 9 strains were isolated concurrently on general YPD medium (pH 6.5) and alkalophilic medium. Seventeen strains of Cryptococcus laurentii were predominantly isolated. Additionally, 65 strains, representing 27 different species of wild yeast were isolated from 58 samples obtained from Sapgyoho (lake). Among the 82 isolated wild yeast strains, 8 strains, including Candida fructus JSC 72-1(JSL-GGU 015), had not previously been recorded. All 8 previously unrecorded yeasts were oval in shape except C. fructus JSC72-1(JSL-GGU-015), and only the Filobasidium chernovii JSC39-1(JSL-GGU-013) strain formed spores. All strains except Pseudosydowia eucalypti JSC23-6(JSL-GGU-012) grew well in yeast extract-peptone-dextrose (YPD) and yeast extract-malt extract media and grew in vitamin-free medium. Four strains, including P.eucalypti JSC23-6(JSL-GGU-012) grew well in 15% NaCl-containing YPD medium. F.chernovii JSC39-1(JSL-GGU-013) and Sirobasidium intermedium JSC7-3(JSL-GGU-014) assimilated lactose, and five strains, including F. chernovii JSC39-1(JSL-GGU-013) also assimilated starch. All strains were resistant to 800 ppm of Ca, Cu, Li, and Mg ions.

[Display omitted] • Pfams degrade dominant Org-N substrates: protein > chitin/cell wall > nucleic acid. • Ammonifying genera count: bacteria (8 8 4) > fungi (25) > viruses (22) > archaea (6). • Uroviricota viruses significantly aid cell wall and chitin degradation. • High-temperature phase most selectively affects ammonifying microorganisms. • Ammonification driven by selected key genera and environmental factors. The nitrogen loss in composting is primarily driven by the transformation of organic nitrogen, yet the mechanisms underlying the degradation process remain incompletely understood. This study employed protein family domains (Pfams) analysis based on metagenomic sequencing to investigate the functional characteristics, key microorganisms, and environmental parameters influencing organic nitrogen degradation in chicken manure and pig manure composting. 154 Pfams associated with ammonification function were identified. Predominant Pfams: proteolytic peptidase, followed by chitin/cell wall degraders, least involved in nucleic acid degradation. Ammonifying microbial diversity was basically consistent among compost types, particularly in the thermophilic stage with the peak of abundance of dominant ammonifying microorganisms. Viruses played an important role in ammonification process, especially Uroviricota. 26 key ammonifying genera were identified by the microbial network. pH dominated the metabolic activity of ammonifying microorganisms in various manure compost types, primarily consisting of protein-degrading bacteria with stable community structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate chemical and microbial characteristics of date from two varieties cultivated in Igli, and Tamtert, region to assess the effect of date moth on their nutritional and microbiological quality. The results show that date flesh of examined cultivars have a high content of sugars (85-64%) and low concentrations of protein (1,05-0,62%), ash(1,83-1,99%) and fats (0,22-0,54%) on dry matter basis, The protein content of infested dates was greater than that of unscathed. For mineral content, Potassium is the most abundant element (455,0mg/100g), followed by sodium (260,2mg/100g), and iron (204 mg/100g), while zinc is present in very small amounts (0,97 mg/100g). The results reveal that the bacteriological quality of both studied varieties, are conforms to international standards; additionally, there is no significant difference in bacterial quality between unscathed and infested dates. Furthermore, dates exposed to date moth infestation, which results in fungal contamination. The development of this fungal flora under suitable conditions (temperature, humidity, pH, etc.) can have negative effects by altering the organoleptic properties and decreasing the nutritive quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Infective endocarditis (IE) is the most dreaded complication of intravenous drug abuse (IVDA). IVDA is present in significant proportions in India. Since there is scarcity of Indian data on IVDA associated IE, we report a study comparing IVDA to non IVDA associated IE. We compare differences in clinical profile, microbiology, echocardiography and clinical outcome from a tertiary care hospital. Methods: A total of 133 patients admitted from 1st January 2017 to 31st December 2019 who met the Modified Duke ‘‘definitive’’ criteria for IE were included. Detailed Information was collected regarding demography, clinical data and laboratory investigations. All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography and trans-esophageal echocardiogram wherever necessary. Results: Among a total of 133 patients, 54 patients (40.6%) were iv drug abusers. Patients in IVDA-group were younger, mostly males, more likely to have concomitant HCV and HIV infections compared to non IVDA-group. Chronic comorbidities such as DM and CKD were more common in non IVDA-group. Rate of positive blood culture was higher in IVDA-group compared to non IVDA-group (74.1%v/s 32.9%,p

The goal of this study was to isolate and identify the wild yeast strains in intestine of Othius punctulatus collected in Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do, Korea and characterize their unrecored yeast strains. We isolated 16 wild yeast strains from 5 intestine samples from Othius punctulatus. The 16 wild yeast strains were included three strains in the genus Aureobasidium, four strains in the genus Cystofilobasidium, one strain in the genus Mrakia, three strains in the genus Naganishia, two strains in the genus Saitozyma, two strains in the genus Sampaiozyma and one strain in the genus Scheffersomyces. Among them Cystofilobasidium capitatum YP53, Cystofilobasidium capitatum YP71, Cystofilobasidium macerans YS620, Cystofilobasidium macerans YS622, Mrakia aquatica YP158 and Scheffersomyces stipitis YI5 were recorded for the first time in Korea. The microbiological characteristics and carbon assimilation of these previously unrecorded yeasts were investigated. Almost all of them were oval-shaped. And, glycerol, L-arabinose, xylitol, and inositol are not utilized.

The goal of this study was to investigate the diversity present among wild yeasts obtained from soils of spice fields and from mountain soils, and to further, characterize previously unrecorded novel wild yeast strains. In total, 36 strains from 17 different species of wild yeasts were isolated from 35 soil samples obtained from garlic fields of Geumsan, Chungcheongnam-do, Korea. Among these, six yeast strains of Trichosporon moniliiforme, and four strains each of Papiliotrema flavescens and Candida melibiosica species were isolated. Additionally, 22 strains of 18 different species of wild yeasts were isolated from 32 soil samples collected from the ballonflower and ginger fields of Geumsan, Korea. Finally, 46 strains of wild yeasts were isolated from 35 soil samples obtained from Mt. Daedun in Geumsan, Korea. Among the total of 106 isolated wild yeast strains, 10 strains, including Debaryomyces vindobonensis GHY31-3 represented novel yeast strains which were previously unrecorded. All the 10 previously unrecorded yeasts were oval or global in shape, and five strains, including Filobasidium stepposum SFG1-4 formed ascospores. Three strains, including Pseudozyma alboarmeniaca CD 23-5 grew well in vitamin-free medium. Cell-free extract obtained from Filobasidium magnum SFG1-3 indicated 28.6% of xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity.

The aim of the current work is to evaluate the effect of a mixture of olive mill wastewater (OMWW) and urban wastewater (UW) on constructed wetland (CW) substrate physicochemical parameters, and to study the abundance and behaviour of microbial community at different depths. In this regard, substrate samples were investigated at three depth levels (0–10 cm, 10–20 cm and 20–30 cm) inside a pilot scale CW treating the mixture. In order to compare the obtained results with the conventional case, a control (CW pilot plant treating only UW) was implemented. Result shows that an increase in electrical conductivity (from 0.134 to 0.222 mS/cm in 0–10 cm and from 0.131 to 0.283 mS/cm in 10–20 cm), total dissolved salts (from 65.45 to 108.67 mg/kg in 0–10cm and from 64.33 to 135.3 mg/kg in 10–20 cm), total organic carbon (from 0.86 to 6.84%), total nitrogen (from 0.1 mg/kg to 0.45, 0.43 and 0.41 mg/kg, in 0–10 cm, 10–20 cm and 20–30 cm respectively) and C/N ratio take place in the substrate after the treatment of the mixture. As for the microbiological parameters, treating the mixture in a CW results in an increase in the yeast and fungi which may optimize the biodegradation of compounds such as polyphenols that are non-easily degraded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional cheeses which are normally produced from raw milk are very popular due to their intense and unique taste and aroma. However, high microbial contamination of raw milk due to manual milking and secondary contamination may lead to many diseases in humans in Iran. Lighvan is a traditional starter‐free locally made Iranian cheese that is made from raw ewe's milk. Since the use of raw milk in the preparation of cheese produces serious health problems, due to the limited ripening period of this type of cheese, this study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of preparing Lighvan cheese from pasteurized milk. For this purpose, different characteristics of cheese prepared with pasteurized milk were compared with raw milk cheese. The results showed a reduction in the microbial population over the ripening time in both types of cheeses. However, coliforms and Escherichia coli were seen in raw milk cheeses until the last day of ripening. Regarding chemical analyses, the water‐soluble nitrogen fraction and lipolysis products increased during ripening. Moreover, the raw milk cheeses indicated a higher lipolysis index than the pasteurized ones. According to the obtained results from the sensory evaluation, the raw milk cheese indicated higher acceptability compared with the pasteurized milk cheese. However, since the presence of E. coli makes the cheese inedible, it seems that the pasteurization of milk is mandatory for the production of this type of cheese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edible coatings that have a recognized ecological effect are an alternative to retard the processes of moisture evaporation and mold growth in bakery products. The aim of the present research was to study the influence of Malva sylvestris L. (mallow) flowers’ extract on the antimicrobial activity of edible coatings of three types of polysaccharides, pectin/P/, xanthan/X/ and carboxymethylcellulose/C/, as well as to analyze their effect on the freshness and microbiological status of coated small loaves during storage. It was found that the presence of a mallow extract had a positive effect on the fungicidal and yeasticidal activities of the X and C coatings. The loaves were evaluated for their physical (moisture, color), textural (firmness and crumb firming kinetics) and microbiological characteristics. The coatings (P, X and C) with mallow extract had the strongest moisture-retaining effect on the loaves’ crumb. The coatings with X and with P (with/without mallow extract) significantly slowed down the crumb firming process, and the value of the rate constant for the crumb firming (k) is the lowest for the X coating—0.1815 day−1. The smallest changes in the crust color were reported when mallow-based coatings were used. They have also been proven to have the lowest microbial load when they are stored for up to three days. This study shows that polysaccharide edible coatings with an active mallow component have significant potential to extend the shelf life of bakery products.

Introduction: Halvi is a traditional dairy product made from sheep milk in Mazandaran province, especially in the mountainous areas of Noor and Kojur. The fungus used in the preparation of Halvi is Auricularia auricula-judae. The present study aimed to investigate the chemical composition and microbiological properties of Halvi samples produced in various regions in Noor city, Iran. Methods: In total, 42 Halvi samples were collected from various regions in Noor, including Chamestan (n=30), central Noor (n=8), and Baladeh (n=4), for the evaluation the chemical (protein, fat content, dry matter, ash, and pH) and microbiological analysis (aerobic plate count, coliform, molds and yeasts, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli). Results: The microbiological results indicated that the samples collected from Chamestan had the highest count of aerobic mesophilic bacteria (6.4 log CFU/g). On the other hand, the samples collected from Chamestan and central Noor were more contaminated with coliform bacteria and yeast and mold compared to the samples collected from Baladeh. Moreover, S. aureus and E. coli were detected in 66.16% and 5.9% of the samples, respectively. The mean pH and protein, fat, ash, and dry matter content of the samples was 6.71, 6.84%, 8.87%, 1.42%, and 21.67%, respectively. Conclusion: According to the results, contamination with the mentioned pathogens indicates stricter control and proper measures during the preparation of Halvi.

K. pneumoniae is an opportunistic pathogen that leads to widespread infection in humans and animals, seriously threatening human health and animal husbandry development. In our research, we investigated the biological characteristics of the isolate by using a 16S rRNA gene sequencing, biochemical assay, and drug sensitivity test. Moreover, the pathogenicity study, including the bacteria load determination, the histopathology examination, and the RNA sequencing was carried out to explore whether the isolate could cause lung injury in mice through intraperitoneal injection. The results indicated that the isolate was identified as K. pneumoniae and named as KPHN001. The drug susceptibility test showed that KPHN001 was only sensitive to polymyxin B and furazolidone, and was resistant to other 28 antibiotics. In the bacteria load determination, the highest bacterial load of the organs was found in the spleen, and abundant bacterial colonization was also found in the lung. The histopathology showed the mainly acute inflammations in the lung were due to congestion, edema, and exudation. RNA-seq analysis revealed that the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines were expressed massively in mice. In the present research, the biological characteristics and pathogenesis of clinically isolated K. pneumoniae were systematically studied, revealing the pathogenic mechanism of K. pneumoniae to animals, and providing a theoretical basis for the following prevention, control, and diagnosis research.

This paper presents main physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of the spring water on the territory of Belgrade city (Serbia) and estimates the possibility of their utilization for public water supply purposes. Analysis of 23 springs on the wider territory of Belgrade is done. The following physicochemical parameters were analyzed: turbidity, pH, TDS, EC, Cl–, , Ca2+, Mg2+, , , K+ and Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+ and K+ ions, as well as and Cl–, were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). Total Fe was determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy. was determined by volumetric titration. was determined by gravimetric method, and was determined by colorimetric method. Microbiological testing was done by Most Probable Number method. Water from 23 springs is defined as Ca–Mg–HCO3 type of water. The most common problem that was recorded is microbiological inappropriateness of water (analyzed: aerobic mesophilic bacteria, coliform bacteria, streptococcus, proteus species, clostridia, pseudomonas aeruginosa or isolated microorganisms presence in water above maximum allowed value), on the first place, and in some cases physicochemical deviations. Among the undesired physicochemical characteristics of several springs, elevated nitrate content due to anthropogenic impact on the shallow aquifer groundwater and elevated magnesium content due to the presence of dolomite, stand out as dominant. An increase in the nitrate content is evident at the area away from the city centre that belongs to the rural type of settlement with a larger number of septic tanks, individual agricultural production with the use of fertilizers as well as individual animal breeding. Other physicochemical parameters are mostly within the proposed limits for human use. Analyzed water would see far greater application if it was treated in order to correct their microbiological quality, as well as nitrate content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports the study of groundwater quality assessment in Boluwaduro community, Ofatedo in Osun State. In addition, it utilized the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) tool in MATLAB Software to simulate the water quality parameters/contaminants. Water samples were taken from 18 randomly selected dugwells and subjected to physico-chemicals and microbiological analysis. The mean concentrations of nitrate, nitrite, lead and iron are 20.12 mg/L, 0.78 mg/L, 0.159 mg/L and 0.35 mg/L respectively. Total plate counts range between 27 - 96 cfu/mL with growth in all the water samples. The ANN structure was trained in several rounds till satisfactory output was obtained with correlation value of R2 = 0.97. Simulation of the pH using ANN provides a good match at 10% increment of chloride, nitrate and iron and the pH value of the water sources increased with the corresponding increase in the concentrations of the parameters. The generated model for TDS gave a good prediction with total hardness and magnesium respectively. The concentrations of some metals in the wells are not safe for drinking; it could pose danger to users of the water sources. It is therefore recommended that the wells in the community should be subjected to routine monitoring and treatment of the contaminants should be enforced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Çökelek is a type of cheese produced via heating of skimmed buttermilk containing low- or no-fat. It is an important healthy dairy product being a cheap and good source of animal protein with low calorie. The present study evaluated some of the characteristics of fresh and skin-ripened Çökelek cheeses available in the Turkish market including compositional, microbiological, electrophoretic and colourimetric properties. The higher contents of total solids, salt and ash in the skin-ripened Çökelek were found to be the main compositional differences. None of the Çökelek samples contained Escherichia coli, coliforms, and fecal coliforms while the yeast and mould counts were 7.3 and 8.2 log cfu/g for fresh and ripened Çökelek samples, respectively. In terms of nitrogen fractions, there was no big difference determined between fresh and ripened samples suggesting that ripening did not affect proteolysis rates of Çökelek considerably. The ripened samples had lower brightness values (L*) while redness (a*) and yellowness (b*) values were higher compared to the fresh ones.

The article presents the review of the national regulatory documents on drug testing for microbiological characteristics, such as «Sterility», «Microbiological Purity» etc. It discusses the history of the establishment of characteristics and the elaboration of the related general pharmacopoeia monographs, as well as prospects for the development of methods in connection with the publication of the Russian State Pharmacopoeia XIII edition. There is a clear trend towards harmonization with the leading world pharmacopoeias, but the Russian State Pharmacopoeia maintains the individual characteristics of drug quality analysis in terms of microbiological characteristics, including the introduction of new technologies, process automation and taking into account the special features of individual drug groups.

Recently, sugar maize has become more and more widely used for the production of new types of food. Its use in the production of cereal products for babies makes it possible to use no sugar in their composition, switch to the production of dietary and prophylactic products, which acquires high importance against the background of “rejuvenation” of diabetes and the manifestation of other nutritional diseases. To enhance the consumer properties of the finished product, to give it the appropriate taste, colour and aroma, as well as to enrich with vitamins, mineral components, flavonoids, phytoncides and glucosides, the following raw materials were selected as the main components for their preparation: maize grains, hullless barley grains in the ratio 1:1, liquorice root (2–4%), carrot roots (2–4%). The article presents the results of microbiota studies of extruded grain products with plant additives during storage. The obtained samples were stored in the laboratory in polypropylene, plastic packaging and cardboard boxes at room temperature of the air +(15–20)°C and air humidity 60–75%. The obtained results allow us to establish that with prolonged storage of commercial samples of extruded grain products with the inclusion of vegetable additives in different temperature and humidity conditions, as the shelf life increases, the number of bacteria decreases. The absolute number of spore-forming bacteria in the samples under study, which were stored in synthetic packaging, remained at the same level, and their relative content in the total bacterial flora increased. On the basis of the research, it has been established that the enrichment of products extruded from sugar maize grain with vegetable additives does not impair their microbiological and physico-chemical characteristics during long-term storage in unregulated conditions. It also allows expanding the range of this type of products.

The water supply is currently a problem, given the over-exploitation of groundwater and contamination of surface water, so it is important to find alternative supplies. The rain water harvesting is considered one of the most viable options for the supply of the vital liquid; some of the most utilized systems for this purpose are the jagüeyes. State Park General Lázaro Cárdenas del Río better known as "Flor del Bosque", it is located east of the city of Puebla and listed as Protected Natural Area, this park has jagüeyes which store water from rain. In this research, the main physicochemical and microbiological parameters of water stored in four jagüeyes of “Flor del Bosque” were measured according to Mexican regulations, in order to establish its quality and determine the uses that are given as a watering wooded areas and drinking trough do not represent a risk to the flora and fauna of the park. Composite samples of each jagüey were analyzed, during two dry weather stations and two rainy weather stations between the moths of November 2011 and October 2012. The water of the four jagüeyes has microbiological contamination by helminth eggs, Fasciola hepatica, fecal (180 CFU) and total coliforms (475 CFU), this represents a risk to the health of wildlife; as well as lots of settleable and suspended solids. Since these systems have been installed for watering wooded areas and drinking trough of animals live there, it would be advisable before use be given appropriate treatment, plus it aims to improve its design or construction to be suitable for the intended uses.

The effects of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on various physicochemical quality attributes of fresh Barhi dates at the Khalal (yellow) stage were studied. Polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) plastic with varied perforation sizes (0, 50, 100 and 150 µm) were evaluated for storage of date fruits at temperatures of 1, 5, 15 and 25 °C up to 45 days. MAP showed significant effects on fruit quality. PP date packages perforated with 150-µm perforations and stored at 5 °C had the lowest acidity and microbial load. Dates packed in PE exhibited higher pectin methylesterase (PME) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activities than dates packed in PP. Dates stored in nonperforated packages had the highest PME, PPO and invertase activities. The maximum fructose and glucose contents were observed in PP-packaged dates stored at 15 °C. Analysis of the interactions of several MAP variables revealed temperature as the major variable controlling the quality of dates. The findings showed that MAP can be effectively employed to preserve the quality and improve the shelf life of Barhi dates using PP with 150-µm perforations as the packaging material during storage for 2 weeks at 5 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, sugar maize has become more and more widely used for the production of new types of food. Its use in the production of cereal products for babies makes it possible to use no sugar in their composition, switch to the production of dietary and prophylactic products, which acquires high importance against the background of “rejuvenation” of diabetes and the manifestation of other nutritional diseases. To enhance the consumer properties of the finished product, to give it the appropriate taste, colour and aroma, as well as to enrich with vitamins, mineral components, flavonoids, phytoncides and glucosides, the following raw materials were selected as the main components for their preparation: maize grains, hullless barley grains in the ratio 1:1, liquorice root (2-4%), carrot roots (2-4%). The article presents the results of microbiota studies of extruded grain products with plant additives during storage. The obtained samples were stored in the laboratory in polypropylene, plastic packaging and cardboard boxes at room temperature of the air +(15-20)°C and air humidity 60-75%. The obtained results allow us to establish that with prolonged storage of commercial samples of extruded grain products with the inclusion of vegetable additives in different temperature and humidity conditions, as the shelf life increases, the number of bacteria decreases. The absolute number of spore-forming bacteria in the samples under study, which were stored in synthetic packaging, remained at the same level, and their relative content in the total bacterial flora increased. On the basis of the research, it has been established that the enrichment of products extruded from sugar maize grain with vegetable additives does not impair their microbiological and physico-chemical characteristics during long-term storage in unregulated conditions. It also allows expanding the range of this type of products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The honey from Tiúba bees (Melipona fasciculata) is commercially important in the Brazilian state of Maranhão. However, the absence of any specific legislation for this kind of honey is an obstacle to its increased production and commercialization. Determining the microbiological and physical-chemical characteristics of different Tiúba honey can inform the elaboration of specific legislation. Thus, honey samples from two Water Catchment Areas in Maranhão (Munim and Pericumã, sample size 20 for each) were collected and submitted for microbiological analysis (total coliforms, thermotolerant coliforms, molds and yeasts, Clostridium sulfite reducers and Salmonella sp.) and physical-chemical analysis (moisture content, reducing and non-reducing sugars, insoluble and soluble solids, ash content, acidity and pH). Most of honeys sampled were suitable for human consumption, except for one sample from Pericumã. Honeys from the two water catchment areas presented differences in some physicochemical characteristics, which can be attributed to the botanic, soil and climatic diversity of the two areas. Still, these Tiúba honey samples did not fall within the Brazilian legislation for Apis mellifera honey for some of the physical-chemical characteristics, and so is not properly regulated, thus reinforcing the need for specific legislation for this type of honey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Çökelek is a type of cheese produced via heating of skimmed buttermilk containing low- or no-fat. It is an important healthy dairy product being a cheap and good source of animal protein with low calorie. The present study evaluated some of the characteristics of fresh and skin-ripened Çökelek cheeses available in the Turkish market including compositional, microbiological, electrophoretic and colourimetric properties. The higher contents of total solids, salt and ash in the skin-ripened Çökelek were found to be the main compositional differences. None of the Çökelek samples contained Escherichia coli, coliforms, and fecal coliforms while the yeast and mould counts were 7.3 and 8.2 log cfu/g for fresh and ripened Çökelek samples, respectively. In terms of nitrogen fractions, there was no big difference determined between fresh and ripened samples suggesting that ripening did not affect proteolysis rates of Çökelek considerably. The ripened samples had lower brightness values (L*) while redness (a*) and yellowness (b*) values were higher compared to the fresh ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Influence of emulsified or non-emulsified common carp roe oil (CRO) and carp defatted roe hydrolysate (CDRH) on properties of crucian carp (Carassius auratus) sausages was determined during 30-day storage at 4°C. Sausages containing CRO and CDRH were lighter and had better textural properties including hardness, gumminess, and chewiness. These textural attributes were significantly higher in the sample prepared with pre-emulsified CRO and 7 g/100 g CDRH (p < 0.05). The sausages fortified with CDRH also presented better microstructure, as evidenced by fewer voids and smaller oil droplets. When incorporated at 7 g/100 g, CDRH could significantly reduce microbial spoilage in sausages in terms of the total viable count and the psychrophilic bacterial count (p < 0.05); however, pre-emulsification had no significant effect on antibacterial activity of hydrolysate in the samples (p > 0.05). Sausages with pre-emulsified roe oil and 7 g/100 g hydrolysate were more resistant against lipid oxidation and had a higher level of polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid after 30 days of storage at 4°C. Furthermore, the sausages with pre-emulsified CRO and 7 g/100 g CDRH exhibited better organoleptic properties at day 30. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kefir grains are multi-species natural starter culture consisting of lactic acid bacteria, acetic acid bacteria, and yeasts, creating complex symbiotic community and widely used in fermented dairy products. The microbiological and chemical composition of kefir grains indicate that they are very complex probiotic, with lactic acid bacteria, generally the predominant microorganisms. Therefore, kefir grains were usually used the starter in fermented dairy products. Our review provides an overview of microbiological characteristics, microstructure, chemical composition of the kefir grains and their use in fermented dairy products.

In this study, the physical and microbiological quality and mineral composition of drinking water used in extensive poultry farms was assessed. Drinking water samples from 6 extensive laying hen farms were analysed for physical parameters such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH and electrical conductivity. The microbial examination of the drinking water samples revealed that the drinking water used in the extensive laying hen farms was not adequate. Similarly, the evaluation of the mineral and heavy metal concentrations of the drinking water samples showed that some heavy metals such as mercury were present in the samples in concentrations exceeding the legal standards. In the present study, to the best of our knowledge, for the first time a comprehensive evaluation of the mineral and heavy metal composition of the drinking water used in extensive poultry farms was accomplished. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]