Modified Glasgow prognostic score (mGPS) is correlated with sarcopenia and dominates the prognostic role of baseline body composition parameters in advanced gastric and esophagogastric junction cancer patients undergoing first-line treatment from the phase III EXPAND trial.

BACKGROUND: Sarcopenia represents an established adverse prognostic factor in cancer patients. Consequently, different means to counteract sarcopenia have been proposed to improve cancer treatment. Computed tomography (CT)-based measurements, also labor intensive, are well validated for the analysis of sarcopenia. As inflammation plays a key role in the development of sarcopenia, we here studied the role of the modified Glasgow prognostic score (mGPS), consisting of inflammation parameters plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) and albumin, to predicting sarcopenia and adipose tissue-related body composition (BC) parameters at baseline and their changes during treatment and to analyze its prognostic role in conjunction with BC parameters. PATIENTS AND METHODS: CT measurements of BC parameters were carried out at baseline and week 12 in patients with advanced gastric or esophagogastric junction cancer from the phase III EXPAND trial, undergoing first-line platinum-fluoropyrimidine chemotherapy. mGPS was calculated from baseline CRP and albumin plasma levels. Pearson correlation and Cox regression analyses were carried out. RESULTS: mGPS is strongly prognostic for overall survival (OS). Baseline mGPS is significantly correlated with baseline mean muscle attenuation (MA; P < 0.0001). Baseline mGPS did not predict a decline in muscle or adipose tissue parameters during 12 weeks of treatment and a decline in muscle or adipose tissue parameters was not prognostic for OS. MA lost its prognostic role for OS when mGPS or CRP was entered into the Cox models. Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status together with CRP or mGPS remained the sole baseline prognostic factors for OS. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings support a model where tumor-mediated inflammatory response represents a strong prognostic factor, which is causally related to sarcopenia, but with no direct causal path from sarcopenia to survival. Therefore, therapeutic targeting of systemic inflammation should be further explored as a promising strategy to improve both sarcopenia and the efficacy and tolerability of cancer treatment.

HCV treatment rates and sustained viral response among people who inject drugs in seven UK sites: real world results and modelling of treatment impact.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) antiviral treatment for people who inject drugs (PWID) could prevent onwards transmission and reduce chronic prevalence. We assessed current PWID treatment rates in seven UK settings and projected the potential impact of current and scaled-up treatment on HCV chronic prevalence. Data on number of PWID treated and sustained viral response rates (SVR) were collected from seven UK settings: Bristol (37-48% HCV chronic prevalence among PWID), East London (37-48%), Manchester (48-56%), Nottingham (37-44%), Plymouth (30-37%), Dundee (20-27%) and North Wales (27-33%). A model of HCV transmission among PWID projected the 10-year impact of (i) current treatment rates and SVR (ii) scale-up with interferon-free direct acting antivirals (IFN-free DAAs) with 90% SVR. Treatment rates varied from <5 to over 25 per 1000 PWID. Pooled intention-to-treat SVR for PWID were 45% genotypes 1/4 [95%CI 33-57%] and 61% genotypes 2/3 [95%CI 47-76%]. Projections of chronic HCV prevalence among PWID after 10 years of current levels of treatment overlapped substantially with current HCV prevalence estimates. Scaling-up treatment to 26/1000 PWID annually (achieved already in two sites) with IFN-free DAAs could achieve an observable absolute reduction in HCV chronic prevalence of at least 15% among PWID in all sites and greater than a halving in chronic HCV in Plymouth, Dundee and North Wales within a decade. Current treatment rates among PWID are unlikely to achieve observable reductions in HCV chronic prevalence over the next 10 years. Achievable scale-up, however, could lead to substantial reductions in HCV chronic prevalence.

Chelativorans intermedius sp. nov. and proposal to reclassify Thermovum composti as Chelativorans composti comb. nov.

Two Gram-stain-negative, non-endospore-forming, rod-shaped bacteria, strains CC-MHSW-5(T) and A1392, were isolated from water of coastal hot springs located in Taiwan and China, respectively, and investigated for their taxonomic position. The two strains shared identical 16S rRNA gene sequences, a DNA-DNA hybridization value >80% and similar genomic DNA G+C contents (64.3 and 64.6 mol%), but showed different genomic fingerprint patterns generated by BOX-PCR and three random amplification polymorphic DNA PCRs. The strains shared highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities with the type strains of Chelativorans multitrophicus (96.7 and 96.1%), Thermovum composti (96.2 and 96.1%) and Chelativorans oligotrophicus (96.1 and 95.8%). Phylogenetic trees (based on 16S rRNA and recA gene sequence comparisons) showed a distinct clustering of both strains with the type strains of species of the genus Chelativorans and T. composti Nis3(T). The quinone systems of strains CC-MHSW-5(T) and Nis3(T) contained ubiquinone Q-10 as the major component. The major polyamine in both strains was sym-homospermidine. Putrescine, spermidine and, for strain CC-MHSW-5(T), spermine were found in minor concentrations. Their polar lipid profiles consisted of phosphatidylmonomethylethanolamine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylcholine and diphosphatidylglycerol. The fatty acid profile contained major amounts of C18 : 1ω7c and C19 : 0 cyclo ω8c. On the basis of these results, the two strains are considered to represent a novel species of the genus Chelativorans , for which the name Chelativorans intermedius sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is CC-MHSW-5(T) ( =CCM 8543(T) =LMG 28482(T) =DSM 29391(T) =CIP 110825(T)). Based on both genotypic and phenotypic characters, it is proposed that T. composti be reclassified within the genus Chelativorans as Chelativorans composti comb. nov.

Falsiporphyromonas endometrii gen. nov., sp. nov., isolated from the post-partum bovine uterus, and emended description of the genus Porphyromonas Shah and Collins 1988.

Two black-pigmented, anaerobic bacterial strains, designated LMM 40(T) and LMM 41, were isolated from the bovine post-partum endometrium of two Holstein cows. The 16S rRNA gene sequences of the two strains were identical and showed the highest similarity to the 16S rRNA gene sequence of the type strain of Porphyromonas crevioricanis (90.2%) but only 85.1% 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to the type strain of the type species of the genus Porphyromonas, Porphyromonas asaccharolytica. The major fatty acid profiles of the two strains were similar to those of species of the genus Porphyromonas, containing iso-C(15 : 0) as the major component and moderate amounts of anteiso-C(15 : 0), iso-C(13 : 0), C(15 : 0) and C(16 : 0). Hydroxylated fatty acids, such as iso-C(14 : 0) 3-OH, iso-C(16 : 0) 3-OH and iso-C(17 : 0) 3-OH, were also detected. The quinone profiles were dominated by the menaquinones MK-8 and MK-9, while spermidine was the major polyamine. The polar lipid profiles contained major amounts of phosphatidylethanolamine, an unidentified phospholipid, an unidentified aminophospholipid and two unidentified lipids and minor amounts of phosphatidylglycerol, an unidentified aminolipid, a second unidentified aminophospholipid and an unidentified glycolipid. The cell-wall peptidoglycan contained meso-diaminopimelic acid. The genomic DNA G+C contents of LMM 40(T) and LMM 41 were 40.7 and 41.3 mol%, respectively. Based on a polyphasic approach, including phylogenetic analysis, physiological and biochemical tests as well as metabolic fingerprinting, it is proposed that the two strains are members of a novel genus and species, for which the name Falsiporphyromonas endometrii gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Falsiporphyromonas endometrii is LMM 40(T) ( = DSM 27210(T) = CCUG 64267(T)). An emended description of the genus Porphyromonas is also presented.

Lipid emulsion pretreatment has different effects on mepivacaine and bupivacaine cardiac toxicity in an isolated rat heart model.

BACKGROUND: The use of lipid emulsions to reduce cardiac toxicity of local anaesthetics (LAs) has shown success in experimental studies and some clinical cases, and thus has been implemented in clinical practice. However, lipid treatment is usually given after the occurrence of neurological or cardiovascular symptoms of systemic intoxication. The aim of this study was to determine if pretreatment with lipid emulsion reduces cardiac toxicity produced by bupivacaine or mepivacaine. METHODS: Isolated rat hearts were perfused with or without lipid emulsion (0.25 ml kg(-1) min(-1)) before administration of equipotent doses of bupivacaine (250 µM) or mepivacaine (1000 µM). Haemodynamic parameters and times from start of perfusion LA to a 1 min period of asystole and recovery were determined. RESULTS: Pretreatment with lipid emulsion extended the time until occurrence of asystole and decreased times to recovery in bupivacaine-induced cardiac toxicity but not in mepivacaine-induced cardiac toxicity compared with control. Lipid pretreatment impaired rate-pressure product recovery in mepivacaine-intoxicated hearts. CONCLUSIONS: This study confirms that pretreatment with a lipid emulsion reduces cardiac toxicity of LAs. The efficacy of pretreatment with lipid emulsion was LA-dependent, so pharmacokinetic properties, such as lipophilicity, might influence the effects of lipid emulsion pretreatment.

Stappia taiwanensis sp. nov., isolated from a coastal thermal spring.

A beige-coloured, Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, non-motile moderately thermotolerant, rod-shaped organism, strain CC-SPIO-10-1(T), was isolated from a coastal hot spring of Green Island (Lutao), located off Taituang, Taiwan, on Marine Agar 2216. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, this organism was grouped into the genus Stappia, showing 98.3 % sequence similarity to Stappia indica B106(T) and 98.2 % gene sequence similarity to Stappia stellulata IAM 12621(T). Ubiquinone Q-10 was the major respiratory quinone and C18 : 1ω7c and C18 : 1ω7c 11-methyl were detected as the major fatty acids. The hydroxylated fatty acid C18 : 0 3-OH was detected as well. Predominant polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylglycerol, unidentified aminolipid AL1 and unidentified phospholipid PL1. Minor amounts of several unidentified lipids (PL2 and L1-L7) were present as well. The polyamine pattern contained the major compounds spermidine and spermine. Strain CC-SPIO-10-1(T) could be differentiated from the type strains of S. stellulata and S. indica by a set of biochemical tests. On the basis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis and the chemotaxonomic and physiological data, it is concluded that strain CC-SPIO-10(T) represents a novel species of the genus Stappia for which the name Stappia taiwanensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is CC-SPIO-10 (T) ( = CCUG 59208(T) = LMG 25538 (T) = CCM 7757(T)).

Chryseomicrobium amylolyticum sp. nov., isolated from a semi-arid tropical soil, and emended descriptions of the genus Chryseomicrobium and Chryseomicrobium imtechense.

A rod-shaped, non-motile, Gram-stain-positive, catalase-positive, starch-hydrolysing strain, JC16(T), was isolated from a semi-arid tropical soil from India. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequence showed that strain JC16(T) clustered with the type species of the genus Chryseomicrobium, Chryseomicrobium imtechense MW 10(T), a member of the family Planococcaceae within the phylum Firmicutes with 99.3 % sequence similarity. Major (>10 %) fatty acids of strain JC16(T) were iso-C15 : 0 and iso-C16 : 0. Minor (<10 and >1 %) amounts of C16 : 0, iso-C14 : 0, anteiso-C15 : 0, iso-C17 : 0, anteiso-C17 : 0, iso-C17 : 1ω10c and C16 : 1ω11c are present in strain JC16(T). Polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phospholipids (PL2-4), aminolipids (AL1, 2) and an unknown lipid. Cell wall peptidoglycan was of the type l-Orn-D-Glu. The quinone system was composed of MK-7, MK-8 and MK-6. Genomic DNA G+C content of strain JC16(T) was 57.6 mol%. Distinct physiological, chemotaxonomic and genotypic differences (37 % reassociation based on DNA-DNA hybridization) from Chryseomicrobium imtechense MW 10(T) support the classification of strain JC16(T) as a representative of a novel species in the genus Chryseomicobium, for which the name Chryseomicrobium amylolyticum sp. nov. (type strain JC16(T) = DSM 23442(T) = NBRC 105215(T)) is proposed.

Ruegeria intermedia sp. nov., a moderately thermophilic bacterium isolated from a coastal hot spring.

A cream-coloured, Gram-negative, aerobic, non-motile moderately thermophilic, rod-to-irregular-shaped bacterium, CC-GIMAT-2(T), was isolated from a coastal hot spring of Green Island (Lutao), located off Taituang, Taiwan, on marine agar 2216. The 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis and subsequent comparisons showed that it was placed into the genus Ruegeria with 97.4 % similarity to Ruegeria lacuscaerulensis ITI-1157(T), and a lower sequence similarity to all other species of the genus Ruegeria. Reconstruction of phylogenetic trees indicated that strain CC-GIMAT-2(T) clustered within the genus Ruegeria. Robust tree topology for the genus Ruegeria including the new strain was only obtained by including all Rhodobacteraceae type strains but not if the analysis was limited to few selected taxa. The quinone system contained exclusively ubiquinone Q-10 and the fatty acid profile consisted mainly of C18 : 1ω7c, 11-methyl C18 : 1ω7c and C12 : 0 3-OH. The predominant polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol and an unidentified aminolipid. Other lipids were detected in moderate to minor amounts. The characteristic feature of the polyamine pattern was the predominant triamine spermidine. On the basis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis and of the chemotaxonomic and physiological data, strain CC-GIMAT-2(T) represents a novel species of the genus Ruegeria, for which the name Ruegeria intermedia sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is CC-GIMAT-2(T) ( = CCUG 59209(T) = LMG 25539(T) = CCM 7758(T)).

[Impact of age on success rate of lacrimal duct irrigation with silicone tube intubation in connatal lacrimal duct stenosis]. / Einfluss des Operationszeitpunktes auf den langfristigen Erfolg von Tränenwegsoperationen mit Schlauchintubation bei kindlicher Tränenwegsstenose.

BACKGROUND: Irrigation of the lacrimal duct with silicone tube intubation (TWS/S) remains the preferred treatment in persisting connatal lacrimal duct stenosis (kTWS). The timepoint of operation is however discussed controversely. On the one hand, it is recommended to wait for spontaneous opening of the lacrimal duct within the first year of life, on the other hand a later operation may trigger inflammatory changes within the lacrimal duct system influencing the success rate of the operation negatively. The aim of this study was to analyze the best time point of operation regarding the long-term success rate of the operation. PATIENTS/MATERIALS AND METHODS: 411 lacrimal ducts of 316 children with kTWS between 0 and 48 months of age (164 male, 156 female), who had undergone TWS with S because of kTWS at a tertiary eye care centre between 2007-2011 were included in this study. The children were divided into 6 groups of age (0-6, 7-12, 13-18, 19-24, 24-36, > 36 months) at the time of operation. The operative success was retrospectively evaluated after 36 months. The groups were compared and differences in late success rate analyzed statistically. RESULTS: The average success of operation of TWS/S in kTWS was 89 % (366 of 411 lacrimal ducts). The success rate of operation differed between the groups. If operated at the age of 0-6 months the operation was successful in 94 %, at the age 7-12 months in 91 %, between 13-18 months in 90.5 %, from 19-24 months in 88 %, and from 25-36 months in only 84.5 %. The success rate was therewith at the age of 25-36 months significantly lower than at the age of 0-6 months (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: TWS/S in kTWS has overall a very high rate of success. The success of the operation decreases however in correlation with age at time of operation and shows with > 25 months significantly poorer results than at 0-6 months. The choice of the best time point for operation merits further investigation.

Dietzia aurantiaca sp. nov., isolated from a human clinical specimen.

A Gram-positive, coccoid, non-endospore-forming actinobacterium (strain CCUG 35676(T)) was isolated from cerebrospinal fluid from a 24-year-old woman in Gothenborg, Sweden. Based on pairwise 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity studies, strain CCUG 35676(T) was shown to belong to the genus Dietzia and was most closely related to the type strains of Dietzia aerolata (99.3%), Dietzia lutea (98.8%), Dietzia schimae (98.5%), Dietzia maris (98.5%), Dietzia alimentaria (98.3%) and Dietzia cercidiphylli (98.0%). The major menaquinone was MK-8(H(2)). Major polar lipids were phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, an unidentified aminophospholipid (APL1), an unidentified phospholipid (PL1) and unidentified glycolipids (GL1 and GL3). Numerous other lipids were also detected. The fatty acid profile, comprising C(16:0), C(17:0,) C(18:1)ω9c and 10-methyl-C(18:0) as major fatty acids, supported the affiliation of strain CCUG 35676(T) to the genus Dietzia. On the basis of the results of physiological and biochemical tests and DNA-DNA hybridizations, a clear phenotypic and genotypic differentiation of strain CCUG 35676(T) from the most closely related Dietzia species is possible. Strain CCUG 35676(T) represents a novel species, for which the name Dietzia aurantiaca sp. nov. is proposed, with CCUG 35676(T) (=JCM 17645(T)) as the type strain.

Camelimonas abortus sp. nov., isolated from placental tissue of cattle.

A gram-negative, rod-shaped, non-spore-forming bacterium, isolated from placental tissue of a cow, was investigated for its taxonomic position. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities, strain UK34/07-5(T) was shown to belong to the class Alphaproteobacteria, closely related to the type strain of Camelimonas lactis (96.0 % sequence similarity). The polyamine pattern showed the major compound spermidine and moderate amounts of putrescine. The major quinone was ubiquinone Q-10. The polar lipid profile was composed of the major compounds phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylmonomethylethanolamine and moderate amounts of diphosphatidylglycerol, three unidentified aminolipids and an unidentified phospholipid. The profile of major fatty acids, consisting of C(19 : 0) cyclo ω8c and C(18 : 1)ω7c, with C(18 : 0) 3-OH as the hydroxylated fatty acid, was very similar to that of C. lactis M 2040(T). The results of DNA-DNA hybridization and physiological and biochemical tests allowed both genotypic and phenotypic differentiation of the isolate from C. lactis. The relatively low 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of 96.0 % to C. lactis M 2040(T) and marked differences in the polar lipid profiles as well as the results of physiological tests and the DNA-DNA hybridization data support the creation of a novel species, for which the name Camelimonas abortus sp. nov. is proposed, with the type strain UK34/07-5(T) ( = CIP 110303(T)  = CCUG 61094(T)  = DSM 24741(T)  = CCM 7941(T)).

Paracoccus rhizosphaerae sp. nov., isolated from the rhizosphere of the plant Crossostephium chinense (L.) Makino (Seremban).

A Gram-negative, coccoid-shaped bacterium, strain CC-CCM15-8(T), was isolated from a rhizosphere soil sample of the plant Crossostephium chinense (L.) Makino (Seremban) from Budai Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis clearly allocated strain CC-CCM15-8(T) to the Paracoccus cluster, showing highest similarities to the type strains of 'Paracoccus beibuensis' (98.8%), Paracoccus homiensis (97.6%), Paracoccus aestuarii (97.7%) and Paracoccus zeaxanthinifaciens (97.7%). The fatty acid profile, comprising C(18:1)ω7c as the major component and C(10:0) 3-OH as the characteristic hydroxylated fatty acid, supported the placement of strain CC-CCM15-8(T) within the genus Paracoccus. The polyamine pattern consisted of putrescine and spermidine as major components. Ubiqinone Q-10 was the major quinone type (95%); ubiquinone Q-9 was also detected (5%). The complex polar lipid profile consisted of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylcholine, and unidentified phospholipids, lipids and glycolipids. Levels of DNA-DNA relatedness between strain CC-CCM15-8(T) and 'P. beibuensis' LMG 25871(T), P. aestuarii DSM 19484(T), P. zeaxanthinifaciens LMG 21993(T) and P. homiensis KACC 11518(T) were 24.9% (34.8%, reciprocal analysis), 15.7% (17.5%), 17.7% (23.4%) and 16.0% (25.4%), respectively. Physiological and biochemical test results allowed the phenotypic differentiation of strain CC-CCM15-8(T) from its closest relatives in the genus Paracoccus. Based on the data presented, it is concluded that strain CC-CCM15-8(T) represents a novel species of the genus Paracoccus, for which the name Paracoccus rhizosphaerae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is CC-CCM15-8(T) (=LMG 26205(T)=CCM 7904(T)).

Microbulbifer taiwanensis sp. nov., isolated from coastal soil.

A Gram-negative, non-spore-forming rod (CC-LN1-12(T)) was isolated from coastal soil samples of Lutao Island (Green Island), Taiwan, and its taxonomic position was studied. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that isolate CC-LN1-12(T) was grouped into the Microbulbifer cluster, with the highest similarities to Microbulbifer okinawensis ABABA23(T) (97.9 %), Microbulbifer maritimus TF-17(T) (97.7 %) and Microbulbifer donghaiensis CN85(T) (97.7 %), similarities to all other species of the genus Microbulbifer were lower than 96.8 %. The polyamine pattern contained the major compounds spermidine and cadaverine. The fatty acid profile, comprising the major fatty acids iso-C(15 : 0), iso-C(17 : 1)ω9c, C(18 : 1)ω7c and iso-C(11 : 0) 3-OH as the major hydroxylated fatty acid, supported the affiliation of strain CC-LN1-12(T) to the genus Microbulbifer. DNA-DNA hybridizations between strain CC-LN1-12(T) and Microbulbifer okinawensis ABABA23(T), M. donghaiensis CN85(T) and M. maritimus JCM 12187(T) resulted in relatedness values of 21.5 % (14.3 %, reciprocal analysis), 35.9 % (48.5 %, reciprocal analysis) and 48.1 % (52.1 %, reciprocal analysis), respectively. From these data, as well as from physiological and biochemical tests, strain CC-LN1-12(T) could be clearly differentiated from the most closely related species of the genus Microbulbifer. It is concluded that strain CC-LN1-12(T) represents a novel species, for which the name Microbulbifer taiwanensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is CC-LN1-12(T) ( = LMG 26125(T) = CCM 7856(T)).

Jeotgalicoccus coquinae sp. nov. and Jeotgalicoccus aerolatus sp. nov., isolated from poultry houses.

Two Gram-stain-positive, non-motile, non-spore-forming cocci (strains MK-7(T) and MPA-33(T)) were isolated from poultry houses. Strain MK-7(T) was isolated on marine broth agar from coquina, a food supplement for female ducks used in a duck-fattening farm. Strain MPA-33(T) was isolated from the air of a turkey house on TSA after filter sampling. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity studies, both strains were shown to belong to the genus Jeotgalicoccus; MK-7(T) was most closely related to Jeotgalicoccus psychrophilus YKJ-115(T) (99.3 % similarity) and MPA-33(T) was most closely related to Jeotgalicoccus halotolerans YKJ-101(T) (98.8 %). The quinone system of MK-7(T) was composed of equal amounts of menaquinones MK-7 and MK-6 and that of MPA-33(T) contained 76 % MK-7 and 24 % MK-6. The polar lipid profile of strain MK-7(T) consisted of the major compounds diphosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylglycerol and six unidentified lipids present in minor to moderate amounts. In strain MPA-33(T), diphosphatidylglycerol was the single predominant lipid, whereas phosphatidylglycerol was detected in moderate amounts. In addition, one unidentified phospholipid and four unidentified lipids were detected. Fatty acid profiles with iso-15 : 0 and anteiso-15 : 0 as major fatty acids supported the affiliation of the strains to the genus Jeotgalicoccus. The results of physiological and biochemical tests as well as DNA-DNA hybridizations allowed clear phenotypic differentiation of strains MK-7(T) and MPA-33(T) from the most closely related species. Strains MK-7(T) and MPA-33(T) therefore represent novel species, for which the names Jeotgalicoccus coquinae sp. nov. (type strain MK-7(T) =DSM 22419(T) =CCM 7682(T) =CCUG 57956(T)) and Jeotgalicoccus aerolatus sp. nov. (type strain MPA-33(T) =DSM 22420(T) =CCM 7679(T) =CCUG 57953(T)) are proposed.

Salinicoccus sesuvii sp. nov., isolated from the rhizosphere of Sesuvium portulacastrum.

A Gram-staining-positive coccus, designated CC-SPL15-2(T), was isolated from the rhizosphere of Sesuvium portulacastrum. By 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, it was shown that strain CC-SPL15-2(T) belonged to the genus Salinicoccus. The isolate was most closely related to Salinicoccus hispanicus DSM 5352(T) (98.3 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity) and Salinicoccus roseus DSM 5351(T) (96.7 %); similarities to all other members of the genus Salinicoccus were <96.5 %. In accordance with characteristics of the genus Salinicoccus, the quinone system was mainly composed of menaquinone MK-6. The polar lipid profile exhibited the major components diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol and an unidentified glycolipid. In the polyamine pattern, spermidine was the predominant compound. The fatty acids were anteiso-C(15 : 0), iso-C(15 : 0), iso-C(16 : 0) and anteiso-C(17 : 0), which supported the affiliation of strain CC-SPL15-2(T) to the genus Salinicoccus. DNA-DNA relatedness between strain CC-SPL15-2(T) and S. hispanicus CCUG 43288(T) was 42 and 32 % (reciprocal analysis). From these data as well as from physiological and biochemical tests, a clear differentiation of strain CC-SPL15-2(T) from S. hispanicus and other members of the genus Salinicoccus was possible. We propose that strain CC-SPL15-2(T) be assigned to a novel species, with the name Salinicoccus sesuvii sp. nov. The type strain is CC-SPL15-2(T) ( = DSM 23267(T)  = CCM 7756(T)).

Gordonia humi sp. nov., isolated from soil.

A Gram-stain-positive, non-endospore-forming actinobacterium (CC-12301(T)) was isolated from soil attached to a spawn used in the laboratory to grow the edible mushroom Agaricus brasiliensis. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities, strain CC-12301(T) was shown to belong to the genus Gordonia and was most closely related to the type strains of Gordonia hydrophobica (97.6 % similarity), Gordonia terrae (97.5 %), Gordonia amarae (97.5 %) and Gordonia malaquae (97.4 %). The quinone system was determined to consist predominantly of menaquinone MK-9(H(2)), minor amounts of MK-8(H(2)) and MK-7(H(2)). The polar lipid profile consisted of the major compounds diphosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine, moderate amounts of two phosphatidylinositol mannosides and phosphatidylinositol and minor amounts of phosphatidylglycerol, three unidentified glycolipids, two phosphoglycolipids and a phospholipid. Mycolic acids were present. These chemotaxonomic traits and the major fatty acids, which were C(16 : 1) cis9, C(16 : 0), C(18 : 1) and tuberculostearic acid (10-methyl C(18 : 0)), supported the affiliation of strain CC-12301(T) to the genus Gordonia. The results of physiological and biochemical tests allowed clear phenotypic differentiation of strain CC-12301(T) from the most closely related Gordonia species. Strain CC-12301(T) therefore represents a novel species, for which the name Gordonia humi sp. nov. is proposed, with the type strain CC-12301(T) (=DSM 45298(T) =CCM 7727(T)).

Virgibacillus soli sp. nov., isolated from mountain soil.

A Gram-positive bacterium (strain CC-YMP-6(T)) was isolated from soil samples collected from Yang-Ming Mountain, Taiwan. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, strain CC-YMP-6(T) clearly belonged to the genus Virgibacillus and was most closely related to the type strains of Virgibacillus halophilus (96.2 % similarity) and Virgibacillus kekensis (96.3 %). The predominant isoprenoid quinone was menaquinone MK-7 and the polar lipid profile was composed of the major components diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine and one unidentified phospholipid plus moderate amounts of two unidentified aminophospholipids and a phospholipid. The polyamine pattern comprised spermidine as the single major component with spermine and putrescine present in minor amounts. The major fatty acids of strain CC-YMP-6(T) were iso-C(15 : 0) and anteiso-C(15 : 0). The results of physiological and biochemical tests allowed the clear phenotypic differentiation of strain CC-YMP-6(T) from all recognized species of the genus Virgibacillus. Strain CC-YMP-6(T) is therefore considered to represent a novel species of the genus Virgibacillus, for which the name Virgibacillus soli sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is CC-YMP-6(T) (=DSM 22952(T)=CCM 7714(T)).

[Microbiological analysis in contact lens-associated keratits]. / Bakterielles Spektrum der kontaktlinsenassoziierten Keratitis.

INTRODUCTION: More than 125 million (2 %) people worldwide wear contact lenses (CL). 0.011 - 0.2 % of the wearers develop keratitis per year. The aim of this study was to explore and analyse the spectrum of germs in different microbiological analysis techniques to optimize the strategy of antiobiotic therapy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective study about 65 eyes with CL induced keratitis or corneal ulceration who were treated in our hospital between 2005 - 2010. We analysed and compared the development of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) under single and combined antibiotic therapy and microbiological analysis of conjunctiva (CS) and CL and CL-container swabs (CLS). RESULTS: Of the patients 96.9 % were soft contact lenses wearers. 48.8 % had microbiological findings in the CS, 81.3 % in CLS. 19.6 % (n = 9) coagulase-negative Stapyhlococcus and 17.3 (n = 8) Pseudomonas species were found. Different spectra of germs in CS and CLS were found. Gram-positive bacteria in CS (54.5 %) were dominant, whereas Gram-negative bacteria were dominant in CLS. No significant difference of mean BCVA changes between single (0.09 ± 0.2) and double (0.14 ± 0.29) topical antibiotic therapy (p = 0.16) were seen, but significant differences between the groups of "gentamicin & ofloxacin" (0.2 ± 0.2) and "moxifloxacin & tobramycin" (0.1 ± 0.43) (p < 0.05) were found. No significant differences of BCVA change between patients with positive (0.12 ± 0.23) and negative (0.20 ± 0.37) microbiological results of conjunctival swabs were observed (p = 0.5). CONCLUSIONS: A strong association between keratitis among wearers of soft lenses and typical spectra of germs was found. Different microbiological findings in different swabs, a lack of findings in around 51.2 % of CS combined with the comparable clinical outcomes between sterile and "microbial" disease means the findings from CS are less important. No differences in development of BCVA between single and double antibiotical therapy were found. There was a better outcome of BCVA with ofloxacin with gentamicin compared to newer generation agents. To improve current treatment strategies in future we recommend increasing the microbiological analysis of CL and CL containers.

Depressive symptoms in higher education students during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. An examination of the association with various social risk factors across multiple high- and middle-income countries.

Higher-education students face substantial risks for developing depressive symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic or experiencing exacerbated pre-existing depressive symptoms. This study uses data from the COVID-19 International Student Well-Being Study, which collected data through a non-representative convenience sample in 125 higher-education institutions (HEI) across 26 high- and middle-income countries (N: 20,103) during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. It describes the prevalence of depressive symptoms in higher-education students. We find substantial cross-national variation in depressive symptoms, with lowest mean levels established in the Nordic countries and France, while highest mean levels of depressive symptoms were found in Turkey, South Africa, Spain and the USA. Elevated risk for depressive symptoms was found in female students, students with fewer social support resources and in a more disadvantaged socioeconomic position, and students with a migrant background. COVID-19 related stressors, such as reduced social contact, increased financial insecurity, and academic stress explained a relatively larger proportion of the variance in depressive symptoms compared to non-COVID-19 related stressors. This finding shows that not the pandemic itself, but rather the secondary effects of the pandemic relate to students' mental health. Our results enable HEIs to be better equipped to target groups that are particularly at risk during a pandemic.

Ornithinibacillus contaminans sp. nov., an endospore-forming species.

A Gram-stain-positive, endospore-forming rod, designated CCUG 53201(T), was isolated from a human blood sample of a 75-year-old woman. 16S rRNA gene sequence-based phylogenetic analysis showed that strain CCUG 53201(T) clustered with the type strains of species of the genus Ornithinibacillus. Strain CCUG 53201(T) was most closely related to Ornithinibacillus bavariensis WSBC 24001(T) and Ornithinibacillus californiensis DSM 16628(T) (97.9 and 98.7 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, respectively). Strain CCUG 53201(T) contained a peptidoglycan of type A4ß l-Orn-d-Asp. The quinone system was composed of the menaquinone MK-7 and small amounts of MK-6. The polar lipid profile of strain CCUG 53201(T) consisted of major amounts of diphosphatidylglycerol and an unidentified phospholipid, moderate amounts of phosphatidylglycerol and another two unidentified phospholipids and minor amounts of several other components. The fatty acid profile comprised mainly anteiso- and iso-branched fatty acids and was in accordance with those of members of the genus Ornithinibacillus. The polyamine pattern exhibited the major compounds spermidine and spermine. The results of physiological and biochemical tests and DNA-DNA hybridization allowed the phenotypic and genotypic differentiation of strain CCUG 53201(T) from its closest phylogenetic neighbours. We propose a novel species with the name Ornithinibacillus contaminans sp. nov., with type strain CCUG 53201(T) (=DSM 22953(T)).