In vitro evaluation of probiotic and technological properties of lactic acid bacteria isolated from artisanal cheese produced in the Serra Geral - Minas Gerais - Brazil / Avaliação in vitro de propriedades probióticas e tecnológicas de bactérias ácido-láticas isoladas de queijo artesanal da Serra Geral (MG)

O presente estudo avaliou o potencial probiótico in vitro de bactérias ácido-láticas (BAL) isoladas de queijo artesanal da Serra Geral (MG), com 14 e 21 dias de maturação, leite cru e pingo, utilizados em sua elaboração, e de bancadas de produção. As bactérias foram submetidas aos testes de antibiograma, à tolerância a ácido gástrico artificial e a sais biliares e ao antagonismo contra micro-organismos indicadores. Levilactobacillus brevis (Q521) e Lactococcus lactis (LLSG) apresentaram os melhores resultados e foram selecionados para a produção de leite fermentado. Apenas LLSG foi capaz de fermentar o leite. O produto apresentou qualidade microbiológica e físico-química adequada, exceto para os teores de proteína, segundo a legislação vigente para leites fermentados, demonstrando potencial tecnológico. A partir dos resultados apresentados, sugere-se que testes in vivo sejam realizados para que LLSG possa vir a ser utilizado como probiótico.

Microbiological featuring of two neotropical fish species from the quilombola area of maranhão state, Brazil / Caracterização microbiológica de duas espécies de peixes neotropicais oriundas de área quilombola maranhense, Brasil

The aim of study is to feature the microbiological quality of two neotropical fish species from the quilombola area of Maranhão State, Brazil. In order to do so, 21 samples of Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus and 21 samples of Cichlasoma bimaculatum were captured in flooded environment. Collected fish were euthanized in laboratory environment; muscle fragments were removed for microbiological analyses focused on enumerating molds and yeasts, viable strict and facultative mesophilic microorganisms and coagulase-positive staphylococci; on counting total and thermotolerant coliforms; and on investigating Escherichia coli and Salmonella sp. Microbiological results were compared to the Brazilian legislation, which establishes the list of microbiological standards for food products. Among the assessed fish, 9.52% were classified as non-acceptable for human consumption, based on the Salmonella parameter. Enumerated coagulase-positive staphylococci ranged from < 10 to 3.9 x 104 CFU/g; 9.52% of assessed fish were classified as having intermediate standard for human consumption, whereas 4.76% were classified as non-acceptable for such a purpose. E. coli counting ranged from 3.6 to > 1,100MPN/g; 4.76% of assessed fish were classified as having intermediate standard for human consumption, whereas 4.76% were classified as non-acceptable for such a purpose. Total and thermotolerant coliforms' counting and the enumeration of viable strict and facultative aerobic microorganisms, as well as of molds and yeasts, have evidenced high microbial population rates; this finding suggests poor hygienic conditions at capture site, contaminated raw material and risk of incidence of enteropathogens. This finding has evidenced imbalance in the investigated environment, as well as compromised aquatic biodiversity.(AU)

Objetivou-se caracterizar a qualidade microbiológica de duas espécies de peixes neotropicais oriundas de área qui-lombola maranhense, Brasil. Para isso, foram capturadas 21 amostras de Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus e 21 amostras de Cichlasoma bimaculatum de ambiente alagável. No laboratório, os peixes foram eutanasiados, procedida a retirada dos fragmentos mus-culares e realizada as análises microbiológicas: enumeração de bolores e leveduras, micro-organismos mesófilos aeróbios estri-tos e facultativos viáveis e de estafilococos coagulase positiva, quantificação de coliformes totais e termotolerantes, pesquisa de Escherichia coli e Salmonella sp. Os resultados microbiológicos obtidos foram comparados com a legislação brasileira que estabelece a lista de padrões microbiológicos para alimentos. Dos peixes avaliados, 9,52% foram considerados inaceitáveis para consumo humano para o parâmetro Salmonella. A enumeração de estafilococos coagulase positivavariou de <10 a 3,9 x 104 UFC/g, sendo 9,52% dos peixes considerados com padrão intermediário e 4,76% inaceitáveis para consumo. A quanti-ficação de E. coli variou de 3,6 a >1.100 NMP/g, sendo 4,76% considerados com padrão intermediário e 4,76% inaceitáveis para consumo. A quantificação de coliformes totais e termotolerantes e a enumeração de micro-organismos aeróbios estritos e facultativos viáveis e bolores e leveduras revelou elevadas populações microbianas o que sugere más condições higiênicas do local de captura, matéria-prima contaminada e risco da presença de enteropatógenos, demonstrando desequilíbrio no ambiente estudado com comprometimento da biodiversidade aquática.(AU)

Cultivo associado de Leuconostoc mesenteroides lb10. 4 e Lactococcus lactis l4a8: propriedades antimicrobianas e potencial aplicação / Associated culture of Leuconostoc mesenteroides lb10. 4 and Lactococcus lactis l4a8: antimicrobial properties and potential application / Cultivo asociado de Leuconostoc mesenteroides lb10. 4 y Lactococcus lactis l4a8: propiedades antimicrobianas y aplicación potencial

O interesse por produtos lácteos funcionais tem motivado o estudo e a prospecção de novas bactérias lácticas. Neste contexto o objetivo deste trabalho foi explorar a potencial associação de Leuconostoc mesenteroides LB10.4 e Lactococcus lactis L4A8 isolados de leite de búfala e identificar aplicações em matriz alimentar. Foram realizados testes de atividade antimicrobiana, influência das bacteriocinas e avaliação da eficiência das bactérias ácido lácticas (BAL) individualmente e associadas frente a espécie de Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644 aplicadas em caldo Tryptic Soy Broth e em matriz láctea. Na avaliação da atividade antimicrobiana, Leuconostoc mesenteroides LB 10.4 e Lactococcus lactis L4A8 foram capazes de inibir Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 e Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644 com halos de inibição variando de 8 a 16 mm e 6 a 18 mm, respectivamente, pelos dois métodos testados. Na avaliação do efeito das bacteriocinas, os resultados demonstraram melhor controle inibitório dos patógenos pela nisina nas concentrações de 1% e 2%, com halos de inibição entre 14 a 24 mm. A avaliação da eficiência das BAL individualmente e associadas frente a espécie de Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644, demonstrou que os isolados em associação são capazes de inibir com mais efetividade a bactéria patogênica, sendo observada uma redução na contagem de L. monocytogenes de 2,67x107 UFC/g para 1,35x104 UFC/g após 240 horas, em matriz alimentar. As bactérias lácticas Leuconostoc mesenteroides LB10.4 e Lactococcus lactis L4A8 apresentaram características promissoras quanto ao seu potencial inibitório, não sendo inibidas pela pediocina. Destaca-se com esses resultados, a importância de estudar o leite de búfala como fonte de novos candidatos de bactérias lácticas autóctones para aplicação em alimentos.(AU)

The interest in functional dairy products has motivated the study and prospection of new lactic bacteria. In this context, the aim of this study was to explore the potential association of Leuconostoc mesenteroides LB10.4 and Lactococcus lactis L4A8 isolated from buffalo milk and to identify applications in food matrix. Tests of antimicrobial activity, influence of bacteriocins and evaluation of the efficiency of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) individually and associated against the species of Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644 applied in Tryptic Soy Broth and in milk matrix were performed. In the evaluation of antimicrobial activity, Leuconostoc mesenteroides LB 10.4 and Lactococcus lactis L4A8 were able to inhibit Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644 with inhibition halos ranging from 8 to 16 mm and 6 to 18 mm, respectively, by the two methods tested. In evaluating the effect of bacteriocins, the results showed better inhibitory control of pathogens by nisin at concentrations of 1% and 2%, with inhibition halos between 14 and 24 mm. The evaluation of the efficiency of LAB individually and associated against the species of Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644, showed that the isolates in association are able to more effectively inhibit the pathogenic bacteria, with a reduction in the L. monocytogenes count of 2.67x107 CFU /g to 1.35x104 CFU/g after 240 hours, in food matrix. The lactic acid bacteria Leuconostoc mesenteroides LB10.4 and Lactococcus lactis L4A8 showed promising characteristics regarding their inhibitory potential, not being inhibited by pediocin. With these results, attract attention the importance of studying buffalo milk as a source of new candid ates of autochthonous lactic acid bacteria for application in food.(AU)

El interés por los productos lácteos funcionales ha motivado el estudio y prospección de nuevas bacterias ácido lácticas. En este contexto, el objetivo de este trabajo fue explorar la asociación potencial de Leuconostoc mesenteroides LB10.4 y Lactococcus lactis L4A8 aislados de leche de búfala e identificar aplicaciones en matriz alimentaria. Se realizaron pruebas de actividad antimicrobiana, influencia de bacteriocinas y evaluación de la eficiencia de bacterias ácido lácticas (BAL) individualmente y asociadas frente a las especies de Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644 aplicadas en caldo Tryptic Soy Broth y en matriz de leche. En la evaluación de la actividad antimicrobiana, Leuconostoc mesenteroides LB10.4 y Lactococcus lactis L4A8 fueron capaces de inhibir Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 y Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644 con halos de inhibición de 8 a 16 mm y de 6 a 18 mm, respectivamente, por los dos métodos probados. Al evaluar el efecto de las bacteriocinas, los resultados mostraron un mejor control inhibitorio de patógenos por parte de la nisina a concentraciones de 1% y 2%, con halos de inhibición entre 14 y 24 mm. La evaluación de la eficiencia de las BAL de forma individual y asociada frente a la especie de Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644, mostró que los aislados en asociación son capaces de inhibir más eficazmente las bacterias patógenas, con una reducción del recuento de L. monocytogenes de 2,67x107 UFC/g a 1,35x104 UFC/g después de 240 horas, en matriz alimentaria. Las bacterias del ácido láctico Leuconostoc mesenteroides LB10.4 y Lactococcus lactis L4A8 mostraron características promisorias en cuanto a su potencial inhibidor, no siendo inhibidas por la pediocina. Con estos resultados, se destaca la importancia de estudiar la leche de búfala como fuente de nuevos candidatos de bacterias ácido lácticas autóctonas para su aplicación en alimentos.(AU)

Occurrence of Apicomplexa protozoa in wild birds in the Northeast region of Brazil / Ocorrência de protozoários Apicomplexa em aves silvestres na região Nordeste do Brasil

Protozoa of the Apicomplexa phylum are worldwide distributed with capacity to infect endothermic animals. The study of these protozoa in wild birds in Brazil is scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of apicomplexan protozoa in wild birds in the Northeast of Brazil. From October to December 2019, brain tissue samples were collected from 71 captive birds from the Wild Animal Screening Center of the Pernambuco State (CETRAS-Tangara) and 25 free-living birds from the Caatinga biome in Rio Grande do Norte, totaling 96 animals (41 species). Brain fragments were subjected to molecular diagnosis by nested PCR for the 18s rDNA gene of Apicomplexa parasites, followed by DNA sequencing. This gene was detected in 25% (24/96) of the samples, and it was possible to perform DNA sequencing of 14 samples, confirming three genera: Isospora, Sarcocystis and Toxoplasma from eight bird species (Amazona aestiva, Coereba flaveola, Egretta thula, Paroaria dominicana, Sporophila nigricollis, Cariama cristata, Columbina talpacoti, Crypturellus parvirostris). The occurrence these coccidia in wild birds provides important epidemiological information for the adoption of preventive measures for its conservation. Future studies are needed to better understand the consequence of Apicomplexa infection in birds in Caatinga and Atlantic Forest biomes.(AU)

Protozoários do filo Apicomplexa são distribuídos mundialmente e com capacidade de infectar animais endotérmicos. O estudo destes protozoários, em aves silvestres do Brasil, é escasso. Objetivou-se avaliar a ocorrência de protozoários Apicomplexa em aves silvestres na região Nordeste do Brasil. De outubro a dezembro de 2019, foram coletadas amostras de encéfalo de 71 aves de cativeiro do Centro de Triagem e Reabilitação de Animais Silvestres de Pernambuco (CETRAS-Tangara). E 25 aves de vida livre do bioma Caatinga no Rio Grande do Norte, totalizando 96 animais (41 espécies). Os fragmentos de encéfalo foram submetidos ao diagnóstico molecular por nested PCR, para o gene 18s rDNA de protozoários Apicomplexa, seguido por sequenciamento do DNA. Este gene foi detectado em 25% (24/96) das amostras analisadas; foi possível realizar o sequenciamento de 14 amostras, confirmando-se três gêneros: Isospora, Sarcocystis e Toxoplasma em oito espécies de aves (Amazona aestiva, Coereba flaveola, Egretta thula, Paroaria dominicana, Sporophila nigricollis, Cariama cristata, Columbina talpacoti, Crypturellus parvirostris). A ocorrência destes coccídios nas aves silvestres fornece informações epidemiológicas importantes para a adoção de medidas preventivas tendo em vista sua conservação. Estudos futuros são necessários para melhor compreensão da consequência da infecção por Apicomplexa, em aves silvestres dos biomas Caatinga e Floresta Atlântica.(AU)

Monitoring periodontal lesions and their effects during pregnancy: microbiological aspects of the oral cavity and amniotic fluid in pregnant ewes / Monitoramento de lesões periodontais e seus efeitos na gestação: aspectos microbiológicos da cavidade bucal e líquido amniótico de ovelhas gestantes

Periodontitis affects the teeth supporting tissues, leading to tooth loss and damage to animal health. Evidence in humans suggests that oral microorganisms spread systemically, increasing the risk of pregnancy disorders such as miscarriage, prematurity, and low birth weight. This study aimed to verify whether periodontopathogenic microorganisms reach the transplacental unit, culminating in problems in pregnant ewes. After analyzing the oral cavity, 10 clinically healthy pregnant ewes (OGCH group) and 10 pregnant ewes with periodontitis (OGP group) were selected. The subgingival biofilm was collected for the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test and amniotic fluid for both the PCR and interleukin (IL) analysis. Peripheral blood was collected for complete blood count, and analyses of IL-6, IL1-ß, and tumor necrosis factor-α were performed. Placental fragments were collected to assess the inflammatory changes using optical microscopy. After giving birth, both the ewes and their lambs were weighed. On clinical examination, a positive correlation between bleeding and suppuration (correlation index - CI=0.54), suppuration and marginal gingivitis (CI=0.34), and marginal gingivitis and edema (CI=0.54) was observed. The weights of the ewes (p=0.013) and their respective lambs (p=0.04) in the OGP group were lower than those of their OGCH group counterparts. The hematological analysis revealed that the OGP group ewes showed a slight increase in the mean corpuscular volume (p=0.2447), segmented cells (p=0.3375), and eosinophils (p=0.3823) when compared with the OGCH group ewes, without a statistical difference. Regarding the microorganisms detected in the oral cavity, there was a significant difference between the occurrence of periodontal pockets and the presence of Fusobacterium necrophorum (p=0.0328), Porphyromonas asaccharolytica (p=0.0392), and the Mollicutes class (p=0.0352). Staphylococcus genus (p=0.9107) and Archaea domain (p=0.7245) were detected in the amniotic samples of both groups, without a significant difference, whereas P. asaccharolytica (p=0.2685) was only detected in one sample in the OGCH group. The expression of cytokine IL-6 in the OGP group differed significantly between the prepartum and postpartum periods (p=0.0039); moreover, it differed significantly in the postpartum period between the OGCH and OGP groups (p=0.0198). Histological examination showed a higher percentage of placental changes in the OGP group (70%) than in the OGCH group, such as the presence of macrophages, neutrophils, plasma cells, and multifocal areas of calcification. These results do not corroborate the hypothesis of dissemination of oral microorganisms to the placental unit, suggesting that it constitutes placental isolation in sheep.

A periodontite afeta os tecidos de suporte dos dentes levando à perda dentária e danos à saúde do animal. Evidências em humanos sugerem que os microrganismos orais se espalham sistemicamente, aumentando o risco de distúrbios da gravidez, como aborto espontâneo, prematuridade e baixo peso ao nascer. Este estudo teve como objetivo verificar se microrganismos periodontopatogênicos atingem a unidade transplacentária, culminando em problemas em ovelhas gestantes. Após análise da cavidade oral, foram selecionadas 10 ovelhas gestantes clinicamente saudáveis (grupo OGCH) e 10 ovelhas gestantes com periodontite (grupo OGP). O biofilme subgengival foi coletado para o teste de reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) e o líquido amniótico para teste de PCR e análise de interleucina (IL). Sangue periférico foi coletado para hemograma completo e análises de IL-6, IL1-ß e fator de necrose tumoral-α foram realizadas. Fragmentos de placenta foram coletados para avaliação das alterações inflamatórias por meio de microscopia óptica. Após o parto, as ovelhas e seus cordeiros foram pesados. Ao exame clínico, observou-se correlação positiva entre sangramento e supuração (índice de correlação - IC=0,54), supuração e gengivite marginal (IC=0,34) e gengivite marginal e edema (IC=0,54). Os pesos das ovelhas (p=0,013) e de seus respectivos cordeiros (p=0,04) do grupo OGP foram inferiores aos do grupo OGCH. A análise hematológica revelou que as ovelhas do grupo OGP apresentaram discreto aumento no volume corpuscular médio (p=0,2447), células segmentadas (p=0,3375) e eosinófilos (p=0,3823) quando comparadas com as ovelhas do grupo OGCH, sem diferença estatística diferença. Em relação aos microrganismos detectados na cavidade oral, houve diferença significativa entre a ocorrência de bolsas periodontais e a presença de Fusobacterium necrophorum (p=0,0328), Porphyromonas asaccharolytica (p=0,0392) e da classe Mollicutes (p=0,0352). O gênero Staphylococcus (p=0,9107) e o domínio Archaea (p=0,7245) foram detectados nas amostras amnióticas de ambos os grupos, sem diferença significativa, enquanto P. asaccharolytica (p=0,2685) foi detectado apenas em uma amostra do grupo OGCH. A expressão da citocina IL-6 no grupo OGP diferiu significativamente entre os períodos pré e pós-parto (p=0,0039); além disso, diferiu significativamente no período pós-parto entre os grupos OGCH e OGP (p=0,0198). O exame histológico mostrou maior porcentagem de alterações placentárias no grupo OGP (70%) do que no grupo OGCH, como a presença de macrófagos, neutrófilos, plasmócitos e áreas multifocais de calcificação. Esses resultados não corroboram a hipótese de disseminação de microrganismos orais para a unidade placentária, sugerindo que se trata de um isolamento placentário em ovinos.

Qualidade microbiológica de hambúrgueres comercializados no município do Rio de Janeiro / Microbiological quality of hamburgers commercialized in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro

O hambúrguer é um produto cárneo moldado, com maior risco de contaminação microbiana pelo fato de ser preparado com carne moída que apresenta maior superfície de exposição, além de ser muito manipulado e consumido, muitas vezes, mal-passado. O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a qualidade microbiológica de hambúrgueres industriais comercializados no município do Rio de Janeiro/RJ, bem como, verificar as condições higiênicosanitárias dos locais de comercialização. Foram coletadas 12 amostras de hambúrguer, de oito marcas comerciais, comercializados em três diferentes supermercados. Durante a coleta das amostras foi realizada uma avaliação visual das condições higiênicas da comercialização. Após obtenção, as amostras foram encaminhadas para o Laboratório de Controle Microbiológico de Alimentos da Universidade Castelo Branco (UCB), para realização das análises microbiológicas. De acordo com os resultados das avaliações higiênicosanitárias dos locais onde as amostras de hambúrguer foram obtidas, observou-se 20%, 60% e 20% de não conformidades nos supermercados I, II e III, respectivamente, devido falhas na organização da gôndola, no acondicionamento do produto e/ou no controle da temperatura de comercialização. Resultados em não conformidade com o padrão microbiológico vigente foram observados em 16,67%, 66,67% e 8,33% das amostras para a contagem de Bactérias Heterotróficas Aeróbias Mesófilas, Estafilococos coagulase positiva e E. coli, respectivamente. A presença de Unidades Formadoras de Colônias típicas de Salmonella spp foi verificada em 41,67% das amostras. Os resultados demonstraram que os hambúrgueres comercializados em três supermercados do município do Rio de Janeiro/RJ estavam impróprios para o consumo podendo representar risco à saúde dos consumidores.(AU)

The hamburger is a molded meat product with a greater risk of microbial contamination because it is prepared with ground meat, which has a greater contact surface. In addition, it is very manipulated and often consumed medium rare. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the microbiological quality of industrial hamburgers sold in Rio de Janeiro/RJ and verify the hygienic-sanitary conditions of the commercialization places. Twelve hamburger samples were collected, from eight commercial brands, and sold in three different supermarkets. During the collection of the samples, a visual evaluation of the hygienic conditions of the commercialization was carried out. After obtaining, the samples were sent to the Laboratory of Microbiological Control of Food at Universidade Castelo Branco (UCB), for microbiological analysis. According to the results of the hygienicsanitary evaluations of the places where the hamburger samples were obtained, 20%, 60%, and 20% of non-conformities were observed in supermarkets I, II, and III, respectively. The non-conformities were due to failures in the organization of the shelf, in the packaging of the product, and/or in the control of the commercialization temperature. Results that did not comply with the current microbiological standard were observed in 16.67%, 66.67%, and 8.33% of the samples for the counting of Mesophilic Aerobic Heterotrophic Bacteria, Coagulase Positive Staphylococci, and E. coli, respectively. The presence of typical Colony Forming Units of Salmonella spp was verified in 41.67% of the samples. The results showed that the hamburgers sold in three supermarkets in Rio de Janeiro/RJ were unfit for consumption and could pose a risk to consumers' health.(AU)

Quality of refrigerated raw milk according to the bulk transport conditions

Technical regulations that determine milk quality standards in Brazil establish the minimum criteria that the processing industry's raw material must present. These rules can challenge the logistics sector (transport) to maintain adequate milk conservation levels. We aimed to evaluate the influence of bulk transport and storage conditions on refrigerated raw milk quality. The experiment was carried out in a dairy industry in Santa Catarina State. Information and samples of refrigerated raw milk were collected from dairy farms, from isothermal compartments of milk trucks, and from the industry's storage silo. These samples were submitted to microbiological analysis, somatic cell count(SCC), and physicochemical analysis. The results were evaluated by ANOVA and multivariate analysis (factor analysis). The transport of raw milk in bulk and the transfer of raw material to the industrial silo worsened the milk's microbiological quality (p < 0.0001) for standard plate count (SPC) and psychrotrophic microorganism count(PMC), without affecting, the physicochemical characteristics of the milk (p > 0.05). Poor hygienic conditions in milk storage rooms, in the refrigeration bulk tanks of the dairy farms, and during the transport, as well as the transport on longer routes, were related to higher SPC and psychrotrophic count while receiving milk by the dairy industry with higher temperatures was only associated with higher SPC.(AU)

Short communication: psychrotrophic microorganism count in raw milk samples preserved with azidiol

The study aimed to evaluate the use of the azidiol® preservative for psychrotrophic microorganism count (PMC) in cooled raw milk. Two studies were carried out, one under controlled conditions (experiment 1) and the other under field conditions (experiment 2), in which samples of raw milk were taken with and without the use of the azidiol® preservative and analyzed at predefined times (0, 6, 12 and 24 hours -experiment 1) and at varying times (experiment 2). Analysis of variance and regression analysis using SAS were applied for data statistical analysis. Milk samples without azidiol®showed higher PMC with increasing time between sampling and analysis, while in samples preserved with azidiol®, this count remained constant. Samples of cooled raw milk intended for PMC should be collected in flasks containing the azidiol®preservative.(AU)

Salmonella Serovars Isolated from Poultry Breeding Flocks under the Brazilian Official Control Programme Between 2016 and 2018

The control of Salmonella in the poultry production chain combined with biosecurity measures is an important tool to maintain and guarantee the sanitary status of Brazilian flocks. The aim of this work was to compare official laboratory data on molecular typification of Salmonella isolates from poultry breeding flocks in different Brazilian states between 2016 and 2018 and identify the production category with the most positive flocks, in light of current legislation. Surveillance data of positive samples from the official Brazilian Salmonella Control Programme sent to Federal Agricultural Defence Laboratory of São Paulo (LFDA-SP) after molecular characterization were analysed. These data were subject to an exploratory study, undergoing a descriptive statistical analysis followed by the use of frequency and non-parametric hypothesis tests. Overall, 49 serovars were detected in poultry broiler-breeder and layer-breeder flocks. Salmonella ser. Heidelberg, Salmonella ser. Anatum, Salmonella ser. Newport, Salmonella ser. Schwarzengrund and Salmonella ser. Mbandaka were the five most common isolated serovars. The data shows that there is an opportunity to improve biosecurity measures in parent breeder flocks. A total of 16 serovars were identified in turkey-breeders. Salmonella ser. Anatum, Salmonella ser. Newport, Salmonella ser. Brandenburg, Salmonella ser. Litchfield, and Salmonella ser. Livingstone were the most common ones. The four official controlled serovars represented a small part of the isolated strains. These data demonstrate the importance of an official program in Brazil for Salmonella surveillance in breeder flocks combined with biosecurity measures.(AU)

Production, partial purification, and characterization of a glucoamylase from Epicoccum nigrum

Starch processing industries use amylases, accounting for approximately 30% of the world's enzyme market. Previously, an amylase-producing strain of Epicoccum nigrumwas isolated from maize grains. Although E. nigrumamylase production is already reported in the literature, no published data on production optimization or characterization of the produced enzyme exists. The objectives of this work were to improve the amylase production by theE. nigrumPG 16 strain and to purify and characterize the produced enzyme. The E. nigrumPG 16 amylase production best conditions in submerged culture were: inoculum of 4% (v v-1) of a five-days-old stationary culture homogenate, agitation at 100 rpm, 25°C, natural light, 72 hours of incubation, starch as thecarbon source, and an initial medium pH of 7.0. A molecular exclusion chromatography profile has shown the production of only one amylase, which was partially purified with ammonium precipitation and dialysis. The enzyme optima pH and temperature are 6.0 and 50°C, respectively. The partially purified enzyme lostits activity when incubated for 30 min in temperatures above 40°C, presenting a T50of 46.25°C. The KMand Vmaxof the partially purified enzyme are 1.72 mg mL-1of starch and 0.15 mgmin-1of degraded starch, respectively. The ion Ca2+slightly activated the studied enzyme. The ions Cu2+, Zn2+, and Fe3+and the detergents SDS and Tween 80 acted as inhibitors of the studied enzyme. The partially purified enzyme released glucose from p-nitrophenyl α-D-glucopyranoside (p-NPG). Glucose was the enzyme's main product from starch hydrolysis, as evidenced by thin-layer chromatography. The E. nigrumPG 16 studied enzyme is a glucoamylase and represents an alternative for enzymatic starch hydrolysis.(AU)

Cellulolytic activity of anaerobic facultative fungi from the digestive tract of sheep fed with banana leaf hay / Atividade celulolítica de fungos aeróbios facultativos do trato digestório de ovinos alimentados com feno da folha de bananeira

The addition of cellulolytic fungi, or their enzymes, in diets containing high levels of fiber are promising strategy for improving the performance. In this study, the aims were to select cellulolytic fungi from the digestive tract of sheep fed different concentrations of banana leaf hay. Thirty lambs raised in a feedlot were evaluated, distributed in a completely randomized design, with diets containing 0, 125, 250, 375, or 500 g/Kg of dry matter and six replications. Approximately 15 mL of ruminal fluid and swabs from the rectal ampulla were collected. The cultures were carried out in a medium containing microcrystalline cellulose (C medium). The mycelial fungi isolates were identified through the microculture technique. Among the fungi from the ruminal fluid, 23 isolates corresponded to the genus Aspergillus and three to Paecilomyces spp. Among the isolates from the rectal ampulla, seven were A. spp., and three were P. spp. The A. genus predominated among the isolates from both evaluated sites (p <0.05). Fragments of these fungi were inoculated in triplicate in medium C at 37 °C and the cellulolytic activity index (CAI) was determined after 24, 48, and 72 hours of incubation. There was no difference in the CAI of Aspergillus spp. from animals fed different diets or of different evaluated sites (P > 0.05). However, 22 isolates of Aspergillus spp. and three of Paecilomyces spp. showed a CAI > 1, indicating biotechnological potential for cellulase production. These selected isolates could be selected for the elaboration of microbial additives in ruminant diets.(AU)

A adição de fungos celulolíticos, ou suas enzimas, em dietas contendo elevados teores de fibras são estratégias pro-missoras para melhorar o desempenho. Neste estudo os objetivos foram selecionar fungos celulolíticos do trato digestório de ovinos alimentados com diferentes concentrações do feno da folha da bananeira (FBH). Foram avaliados 30 borregos criados em sistema intensivo, distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com cinco dietas contendo 0, 125, 250, 375 ou 500 g/KG de matéria seca em seis repetições. Foram coletados aproximadamente 15 mL de fluido ruminal e swabs da ampola retal. Os cultivos foram realizados em meio de cultura contendo celulose microcristalina (meio C). Os fungos micelianos foram identificados após a técnica de microcultivo. Entre os fungos provenientes do fluido ruminal, 23 isolados corresponderam ao gênero Aspergillus e três a Paecilomyces spp.. Foram identificados nas fezes dos animais sete Aspergillus spp. e três Paecilomyces spp.. O gênero Aspergillus predominou entre os isolados de ambos os sítios avaliados (p =0,013). Fragmentos desses fungos foram inoculados em triplicada em meio C a 37 °C e determinou-se o índice de atividade celulolítica(IAC) após 24, 48 e 72 horas de incubação. Não houve diferença entre CAI de isolados de Aspergillus spp. provenientes dos animais em diferentes dietas ou sítios avaliados (P > 0.05). Entretanto, 22 isolados de Aspergillus spp. e três de Paecilomyces spp. apresentaram IAC >1, indicando potencial biotecnológico para produção de celulases.(AU)

The Effect of Moringa Oleifera Leaf and Canola Seed Powder on Fattening, Laying Performance, Blood Plasma Constituents, and Microbiota in Japanese Quails

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of feeding Japanese quail chicks with diets containing different levels of Moringa oleifera leaf and canola seed powder on growth performance, carcass yield, blood plasma constituents, and egg production. The trial lasted for a total of 7 weeks, with 5 weeks of fattening and two weeks of laying. The first group was the control group, while the second group was supplemented with Moringa oleifera leaves (4g/kg diet), the third group was supplemented with canola seed powder (4g/kg diet), the fourth group was supplemented with a mix of Moringa oleifera leaves and canola seed powder (8g/kg diet). The results showed that canola seed powder from 0-3 weeks of age increased body weight in comparison to the control group, but there were no significant differences (p<0.05) among groups in terms of the final body weight and feed conversion ratio. Average daily feed intake was significantly different (p<0.05). However, body weight, carcass weight, liver weight, gizzard weight, and abdominal fat weight increased significantly compared to the control group. Feeding Moringa oleifera leaves and canola seed powder significantly increased the total plasma protein, as compared to the control group. There were significant decreases in cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL levels among groups, with no significant differences in glucose, ALT and LDL among all treatments. The addition of Moringa oleifera leaf and canola seed powder showed significant effects on calcium and magnesium. Both Moringa oleifera leaf and Moringa-canola mixture significantly reduced the presence of some pathogenic bacteria in the digestive system, which was seen as an important contribution to the digestive and immune systems.(AU)

Toxoplasma gondii in lactating animals: potential risk to milk consuming population in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa / Toxoplasma gondii em animais lactantes: risco potencial para população consumidora de leite em Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular zoonotic protozoan parasite usually infects human and animal worldwide. This study aimed to analyze the sero-prevalence of T. gondii in blood of lactating animals and human living in close proximity and also to detect Toxoplasma DNA in unpasteurized milk of the studied animals. A total of 233 blood and milk samples were collected from lactating animals, and 735 blood samples were taken from humans in District Upper Dir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The blood samples were analyzed through ELISA while the milk samples were analyzed by PCR for the presence of T. gondii DNA. A standard questionnaire was introduced to collect the data from the participants. In animals, the reported sero-prevalence was 32.18% for IgM, 17.16% for IgG, and 6.4% for both IgM and IgG. The reported positivity for T. gondii DNA in milk was 14.44%, 34.8%, 20%, and 26% in sheep, goats, cows, and buffaloes, respectively. In the human blood samples, 9.8% were found positive for IgM and 11.2% for IgG while none of the samples was found positive for both IgM and IgG. Overall sero-prevalence reported in females was significantly higher than the male (p< 0.0001) were the significant risk factors associated with T. gondii infections in animals. In conclusion, T. gondii infection is prevalent in lactating animals and humans using their raw milk in the study area. It is suggested that raw milk should be considered as a vehicle for the transmission of T. gondii to humans. Proper pasteurization of milk is very useful in limiting the transmission of infection. Awareness and control programs should be implemented to prevent the infection.

Toxoplasma gondii é um protozoário parasita intracelular zoonótico que geralmente infecta humanos e animais em todo o mundo. Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar a soroprevalência de T. gondii no sangue de animais lactantes e humanos que vivem em proximidade, além de detectar o DNA de Toxoplasma no leite não pasteurizado dos indivíduos estudados. Um total de 233 amostras de sangue e leite foram coletadas de animais lactantes e 735 amostras de sangue foram coletadas de humanos no Distrito Upper Dir Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, no Paquistão. As amostras de sangue foram analisadas pelo método ELISA enquanto as amostras de leite foram analisadas por PCR para a presença de DNA de T. gondii. Um questionário padrão foi introduzido para coletar os dados dos participantes. Em animais, a soroprevalência relatada foi de 32,18% para IgM, 17,16% para IgG e 6,4% para IgM e IgG. A positividade relatada para DNA de T. gondii encontrada no leite foi de 14,44%, 34,8%, 20% e 26% em ovelhas, cabras, vacas e búfalas, respectivamente. Nas amostras de sangue humano, 9,8% foram consideradas positivas para IgM e 11,2% para IgG, enquanto nenhuma das amostras foi considerada positiva para IgM e IgG. A soroprevalência geral relatada em mulheres foi significativamente maior do que em homens (p < 0,05). Neste estudo, contato com gatos (p < 0,0001), hábitos alimentares (p < 0,0001), fonte de água para beber (p < 0,0001) e más condições de higiene (p < 0,0001) foram os fatores de risco significativos associados a infecções por T. gondii em animais. Em conclusão, a infecção por T. gondii é prevalecente em animais lactantes e humanos que utilizam leite cru, isto é, não-pasteurizado, na área de estudo. Sugere-se que o leite não-pasteurizado seja considerado um veículo de transmissão do T. gondii para humanos. A pasteurização adequada do leite é muito útil para limitar a transmissão de infecções. Programas de conscientização e controle devem ser implementados para prevenir a infecção.

High Genetic Similarity Among Salmonella Heidelberg Isolated from Poultry Farms, Wild Animals, Beef, Poultry and Pork Meat, and Humans in Brazil

Salmonellosis is an important gastrointestinal infection in humans and cause of foodborne outbreaks in the world. In this context, molecular characterization is essential to understand how the strains circulate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the genotypic distribution of S. Heidelberg according to the source of isolation. The genetic relatedness of the S. Heidelberg isolates was determined by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). The most prevalent pulsotypes of cluster A were BRJF6X01.006 (27/95 = 28,42%) related between 1995 and 2011 in broilers, poultry meat and poultry farms, meat product and human, and BRJF6X01.001 (21/95 = 22,10%) related between 2011 and 2017 in wild animals, broilers, poultry meat, poultry farms, meat product, animal feed, and pork meat. The pulsotype BRJF6X01.001 shows a high distribution in the environmental and productive chain. The degree of similarity between pulsotypes BRJF6X01.006 and BRJF6X01.001 is 88%. To ensure the safety of human and animal health, holistic approaches, including surveillance of Salmonella throughout the environment and in the production chain, together with control measures, are critical. As transmission of Salmonella from food producing animals to wildlife and to the environment is considered potential public health problem, information on the survival and persistence of Salmonella in the environment and in potential reservoirs is of considerable importance.(AU)

Epidemiology of mastitis and interactions of environmental factors on udder health in the compost barn system / Epidemiologia da mastite e interações de fatores ambientais na saúde do úbere no sistema de Compost Barn

This study aimed to describe the epidemiological indexes of mastitis, milk quality and udder hygiene in the Compost Barn system, as well as to search for associations between isolated pathogens from milk with compost characteristics. Three dairy herds participated in the study, and the samples were collected during different periods on each farm. Individual milk samples were collected in duplicate for SCC analysis and microbiological culture. Environmental pathogens caused most cases of clinical mastitis on farm 2, and contagious pathogens caused the most cases on farm 1. Bed moisture was not associated with the incidence of environmental pathogens. Most of the animals remained in good udder hygiene during the study. Poor udder hygiene contributed to the increased incidence of environmental pathogens in one of the farms. A higher number of animals with a hygiene score of ≥ 2 were observed during the warmer and rainfall periods. There was no association between hygiene scores and somatic cell counts. The results suggest that pathogens isolated from milk in animals confined in Compost Barn under tropical climate are like other confinement systems adopted elsewhere. The year period influenced the udder hygiene score, reinforcing the importance of bed management throughout the year.

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever os índices epidemiológicos da mastite, da qualidade do leite e da higiene do úbere em animais confinados no sistema Compost Barn, bem como buscar associações entre patógenos isolados do leite e características do composto. Três rebanhos leiteiros participaram do estudo e as amostras foram coletadas em diferentes períodos em cada fazenda. Amostras individuais de leite foram coletadas em duplicata para análise de CCS e cultura microbiológica. Patógenos ambientais causaram a maioria dos casos de mastite clínica na fazenda 2, e na fazenda 1 a maioria dos casos foi em decorrência de patógenos contagiosos. Amostras de material da cama foram coletadas em duas fazendas para análise da densidade bacteriana e da umidade. A umidade da cama permaneceu dentro da faixa de controle durante o estudo e não foi associada à incidência de patógenos ambientais. A maioria dos animais permaneceu com boa higiene de úbere durante o estudo. A falta de higiene do úbere contribuiu para o aumento da incidência de patógenos ambientais em uma das fazendas. Durante o período mais quente e mais chuvoso, um número maior de animais com escore de sujidade ≥2 foi observado em todos os rebanhos. Não houve associação entre escore de sujidade e contagem de células somáticas em qualquer uma das três fazendas. Os resultados indicam que o perfil de patógenos isolados do leite em animais confinados em Compost Barn sob clima tropical é semelhante a outros sistemas de confinamento adotados em outros lugares. O período do ano influenciou o escore de higiene do úbere, o que reforça a importância do manejo da cama ao longo do ano.

Infectious diseases of neotropical primates

Neotropical primates are represented by more than 200 species and subspecies distributed in five families. Considering that some of these species are considered endangered, disease investigation in these populations is critical for conservation strategies. Therefore, an increasing number of studies and publications on this topic became available in the past few years. This review deals with infectious diseases of neotropical primates, with focus on free-ranging animals, including those caused by bacterial, viral, protozoal, metazoan, or mycotic infectious organisms, with particular emphasis on gross and microscopic lesions associated with these diseases. In addition, a few relevant unpublished cases of infection by Staphylococcus spp., Streptococcus spp., E. coli and Pseudomonas spp. were included in this review.(AU)

Avaliação microbiológica de queijos comercializados em feiras livres da baixada santista / Microbiological evaluation of cheese selled in free fairs in baixada santista

A qualidade microbiológica dos alimentos é de extrema importância a nível de saúde pública. Por isso, são necessárias análises para identificar possíveis contaminações e, a partir delas, estabelecer recomendações e medidas para garantia da segurança dos alimentos ofertados à população. A presença de Escherichia coli e coliformes totais nos alimentos indica condições de higiene insatisfatórias. Desta forma, no presente trabalho buscou-se avaliar a presença de E. coli e coliformes totais em queijos comercializados em feiras livres nos municípios da Baixada Santista, por meio de kit comercial COLItest ®. Verificou-se a presença de coliformes totais em nove amostras (100%). Sendo que cinco (55,5%) das amostras analisadas foram positivas para E. coli, indicando que os produtos vendidos na feira, sem controle de qualidade, possuem contaminações bacterianas que podem prejudicar a saúde dos consumidores.(AU)

The microbiological quality of food is extremely important in terms of public health. Therefore, analyzes are necessary to identify possible contaminations and based on them, establish recommendations and measures to guarantee the safety of food offered to the population. The presence of Escherichia coli and total coliforms in food indicates unsatisfactory hygiene conditions. In this way, the present work sought to evaluate the presence of E. coli and total coliforms in cheese sold in free fairs located in municipalities of Baixada Santista, through the commercial kit COLItest ®. The presence of total coliforms was verified in nine samples (100%). Five (55.5%) of the samples were positive for E. coli, indicating that the products sold at the fair, without quality control, have bacterial contamination that can harm the health of consumers.(AU)

Fatal and disseminated infection by Entamoeba invadens in a red-footed tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonaria)

Amebiasis is an important parasitosis that can affect reptiles, specially caused by protozoas of the genus Entamoeba, which include pathogenic or commensal species. Entamoeba invadens is the most common amoeba to cause serious disease and death in reptiles. This paper aims to report a case of a sudden death due to a disseminated infection by Entamoeba invadens in a red-footed tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonaria). The animal was brought to the Center for Management and Conservation of Wild Animals of the Fauna Division and found dead after being kept in an enclousure with other captive tortoises for 11 months. Macroscopic findings evidenced necrotizing typhlitis and proctitis and round yellow areas in the right lobe of liver parenchyma. In the histological examination, necrotizing and heterophilic enteritis and necrotizing hepatitis with macrovesicular degeneration of hepatocytes, associated with mixed inflammatory infiltrate were present. Both organs revealed numerous amoebic trophozoites, morphologically suggestive of the genus Entamoeba, and bacterial colonies. The agent was confirmed by PCR and Sanger DNA sequencing, which leads this study to be the first confirmed case report of E. invadens infection in Brazil in a red-footed tortoise.(AU)

Cardiac hypertrophy associated with Corynebacterium spp. in Didelphis albiventris cubs

The purpose of this manuscript is to describe the clinical-pathological aspects of cardiac hypertrophy related to the presence of Corynebacterium spp. in three Didelphis albiventris cubs. In necropsy, macroscopically, in the heart, cardiomegaly, concentric hypertrophy of the ventricles and the ventricular septum were observed, with consequent reduction of the chamber. Microscopically, the primary lesions found in the heart were cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and necrosis, myocytolysis, and the presence of myriad basophilic bacteria. Liver fragments and endocardial swabs were sent for bacterial culture, in which pleomorphic Gram-positive rods grew, forming small and hemolytic colonies. Chemical tests demonstrated characteristics compatible with Corynebacterium spp. Thus, this report represents the first description of cardiac hypertrophy associated with Corynebacterium spp. in white-eared opossums cubs, representing an essential contribution to studying diseases in wild animals.(AU)

Seed treatment: importance of products and equipment / Tratamento de sementes: importância dos produtos e equipamentos

Seed treatment is extremely important and beneficial for all crops, which aims to eliminate and control fungi, insects and other pests that attack seeds, seedlings and plants. For this, it is necessary to use new technologies and agricultural equipment that help in the treatment of these seeds, making the producer more profitable. This literary review aims todescribe different types of seed treatments and agricultural equipment that can help in this process. This study took place between October and November 2022 and used different works as a basis to develop this review, in which it can be seen that the demand for seed treatment in Brazil has increased in relation to the use of fungicides and application technologies and equipment. , where it can be concluded that seed treatment is constantly evolving, both with regard to seed treatment equipment and the chemical and biological products used.(AU)

O tratamento de sementes é de extrema importância e benéfica para todas as culturas, na qual tem por objetivo a eliminação, controle de fungos, insetos e outras pragas que atacam sementes, mudas e plantas. Para isso se faz necessário o uso de novas tecnologias e equipamentos agrícolas que auxiliam no tratamento dessas sementes, fazendo com que haja uma maior rentabilidade ao produtor. Está revisão literária têm como objetivo descrever diferentes tipos de tratamentos de sementes e equipamentos agrícolas que podem auxiliar nesse processo. Este estudo ocorreu entre os meses de outubro e novembro de 2022 e usou como base diferentes trabalhos para desenvolver está revisão, na qual pode perceber que a demanda por tratamento de sementes no Brasil tem aumentado em relação ao uso de fungicidas e tecnologias e equipamentos de aplicação, onde pode-se concluir que o tratamento de sementes está em constante evolução, tanto no que diz respeito aos equipamentos de tratamento de sementes quanto aos produtos químicos e biológicos utilizados.(AU)