Microbial contamination status of swimming places for infants and young children in Shijia-zhuang City and comparison with other public places, 2021–2022 / 环境与职业医学

Background At present, China's Public places health management regulations list 7 categories and 28 sub-categories of public places, but infant and young child swimming places are not in the list yet. Objective To understand the microbial pollution status in commercial infant and young child swimming places in Shijiazhuang City, compare with the microbial pollution in other five types of public places, and find the potential safety hazards in infant and young child swimming places. Methods A total of 3438 microbial samples were collected from the environment of infant and young child swimming places and 5 types of public places (hotels, barber stores, waiting rooms, shopping malls and supermarkets, and conventional swimming places) in Shijiazhuang City from 2021 to 2022. Sampling and monitoring were carried out according to the requirements of Examination methods for public places—Part 6: Technical specifications of health monitoring (GB/T 18204.6-2013). Chi-square test was used to compare hygiene qualification by microbial indicators, and Kruskal-Wallis H test was used to compare overall distributions of total bacterial counts on the surface of public articles. Results From 2021 to 2022, the highest qualified rate of microbial indicators on the surface of public articles was Staphylococcus aureus (100%) for all tested public places in Shijiazhuang City, followed by coliforms (99.44%), and that of total bacterial count was relative low (92.83%). The qualified rate of total bacterial count on the surface of public articles in the swimming places for infants and young children was 87.76%, and the qualified rates in hotels, barber stores, waiting rooms, shopping malls and supermarkets were all above 92%, and the difference among the 5 types of places was statistically significant (P<0.001). The highest value of total bacterial count on the surface of public articles in the swimming places for infants and young children was 80000 CFU·(25 cm2)−1 [100 CFU·(25 cm2)−1=4 CFU·cm−2]; that in 4 types of public places such as hotels (except mouthwash cups), barber stores, waiting rooms, and shopping malls or supermarkets was 2500 CFU·(25 cm2)−1. The difference of total bacteria count on the surface of public articles was statistically significant in comparing infant and young child swimming places with hotels (except mouthwash cups) or barber stores (H=5.432, H=2.997, both Ps<0.05); but the difference was not significant in comparing with waiting rooms and shopping malls or supermarkets (P>0.05). The qualified rates of total bacteria count and coliforms in pool water of infant and young child swimming places were 45.99% and 74.69% respectively, and the two indicators in pool water of conventional swimming places were 94.57% and 98.91% respectively; both showed significant differences between the two types of public places (χ2=162.532, χ2=71.910, both Ps<0.001). Conclusion Compared to conventional swimming places, hotels, barber stores, waiting rooms, and shopping malls or supermarkets, the infant and young child swimming places are not optimistic in hygiene condition; therefore, there is an urgent need to formulate national health standards for infants and young child swimming places, and include them in standard management to further improve their hygiene condition.

MICROBIAL PROFILE AND ANTIBIOTIC SUSCEPTIBILITY OF BACTERIAL PATHOGENS ISOLATED FROM PAPER CURRENCIES CIRCULATING IN SOME RESTAURANTS AND BUTCHERIES IN HAWASSA, SIDAMA, ETHIOPIA, 2020-21

Currency notes could play a signicant role in transmitting pathogenic microorganisms amongst individuals in the society. This study was aimed to determine the microbial prole and Antibiotic susceptibility of bacterial pathogens isolated from Ethiopian paper notes in circulation. 64 currency paper notes of different denomination were tested for bacterial contamination using standard microbiological methods. Antibiotic susceptibility proles of the isolates were determined with approved methods. Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Overall mean AMBC was 4.08 log units, with the highest 6.58 log units recorded from denomination 5 followed by 4.50, 3.03, 2.20 log units from denominations 10, 50 and 100 respectively. Total Coliforms (TC) displayed the same pattern with the highest mean counts of 6.52 log units, from denomination 5 and lowest counts of 2.19 log units from denomination 100. Out of 64 currency notes, 35 (54.7%) were contaminated with bacteria. The predominant bacteria isolates were E. coli (60.5%), Salmonella spp. (23.6%) and Shigella spp. (13.2%). Each isolate was resistant to four or more antibiotics tested. All isolates were resistant against Cefepime and Tetracycline and sensitive to Ceftriaxone. This study revealed that currency notes are contaminated with pathogenic bacteria and in most cases these bacterial isolates were resistant to commonly prescribed antibiotics. Therefore, contaminated notes are identied as potential public health threat, because pathogens can be spread by circulating the notes and become source of infection. Awareness creation is important among public in this regard.

Reduction of Microbial Contamination of Chechin nchabe (Cooked Fermented Cassava) Produced in Noun (West Cameroon) by a Second Fermentation

The Chechim nchabe is a traditional food widely consumed in Foumban, Foumbot, Koutaba, Massangam, Kouoptamo, Malentouen and Magba, 07 Departments of Noun (West region of Cameroon). It is obtained by fermenting cassava sticks cooked on the surface of river or spring water. Unfortunately, the bad hygienic quality of the environment during production promotes its contamination by pathogenic germs. The objective of this study is to carry out a second fermentation in order to reduce contamination of Chechim nchabe by pathogens germs during production. To achieve this objective, a survey on the socio-economic data, profile of the producers, production protocol and characteristics of product have been realized. After microbiological analysis of Chechim nchabe, a second fermentation was performed in the laboratory. From the results, it appears that all the producers are women, aged between 51 and 58 years and 87% of them not attending school. The water used for soaking the cassava revealed that 54% of women use river water and 46% spring water. The Chechim nchabe samples collected after traditional production in the 07 Departments of Noun, show average contamination of Enterobacteriaceae, moulds, staphylococci, Escherichia coli and lactic acid bacteria with respective concentrations of 4.7; 4.1; 4.4; 4.7 and 4.8 Log10ufc/mL. However, Chechim nchabe produced in urban areas such as Foumbot and Foumban recorded low contamination compared to that produced in rural areas like Massangam, which were heavily contaminated with Escherichia coli and Enterobacteriaceae. It was also noted that the Chechim nchabe produced in spring water is more contaminated than that produced in river water. The second fermentation for 10 hours of Chechim nchabe in a basin, after 12 hours of traditional fermentation, eliminated all of pathogenic germs from Chechim nchabe. This second fermentation of 10 hours could be a solution to guarantee the sanitary quality of Chechim nchabe before its consumption.

Comparison of yield of microorganisms in cord blood between two automated blood culture systems / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To compare the difference in the detection rate of microorganisms in cord blood between BACTEC FX and BacT/ALERT 3D automated blood culture systems, and to compare the influence of incubation time and different types of culture sample on the detection rate of microorganisms in cord blood. 【Methods】 Cord blood samples prepared from April to August 2020 in Sichuan Cord Blood Bank(n=4 358) were selected, and 20 mL of plasma was used as culture samples for microbial detection. In addition, cord blood samples prepared in the same months of 2021(n=4 057) were selected, and 19 mL of plasma plus 1 mL of final product was used as culture samples for microbial detection. The total sample size was 8 415, of which 4 849 samples(2 458 in plasma group and 2 391 in plasma plus final product group) were assigned to the BACTEC FX system, and 3 566 samples(1 900 in the plasma group and 1 666 in the plasma plus final product group) to the BacT/ALERT 3D system. All samples were cultured for 7 days, and culture data were recorded on day 5 and day 7. Positive results were confirmed by Gram staining. 【Results】 The positive rate detected by the BACTEC FX system was higher than that of the BacT/ALERT 3D system(4.08% vs 2.69%), with statistically significant difference(P0.05) detected by the BacT/ALERT 3D system. With quality control strains, there were significant differences in TTP between these two systems for Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Clostridium sporogenes, and Bacillus subtilis(P0.05). 【Conclusion】 This study suggests that the selection of BACTEC FX blood culture system with incubation time of not less than 7 days and plasma plus final product as culture samples may improve the detection rate of microorganisms in cord blood.

Microbial contamination characteristics of centralized air conditioning systems in star-rated hotels based on metagenomic sequencing / 环境与职业医学

Background The use of heating and ventilation air conditioning (HVAC) in public places is conducive to improving indoor air quality and increasing the users comfort level. However, HVAC may also become potential carriers of indoor airborne microbial contamination. Objective To understand the characteristics of microbial pollution and distribution of related pathogenic microorganisms in HVAC of star-rated hotels, and to provide a basis for effective control of such pollution. Methods According to the requirements of the Hygienic specification of central air conditioning ventilation system in public buildings (WS 394-2012), two sets of HVAC in two star-rated hotels (A and B, inaugurated in 2002 and 1998, respectively) in the central area of Shanghai were randomly selected on September 9, 2020 for the hygienic evaluation of microorganisms in the air supply and respirable particulate matter (PM10) in the air supply, dust accumulation and microorganisms on the inner surface of the ducts, as well as Legionella pneumophila in cooling water and condensate water. At the same time, 3 samples from the inner surface of ducts, 1 sample from the surface of the filter, 1 sample from the condensate, and 1 sample from the cooling water were collected from each set of HVAC, a total of 12 sample from 2 sets of HVAC, for Illumina HiSeq metagenomic sequencing，and the samples are divided into 3 groups according to their types: duct group, filter group, and water sample group. The α-diversity indices (Shannon index, Simpson index, Chao1 index, ACE index, and goods_coverage index) were calculated to reflect the microbial community composition; and the β-diversity of the three groups were studied by principal component analysis to determine the similarity of the microbial communities. Results The maximum total number of bacteria and fungi in the air supply of the HVAC were 1158 CFU·m−3 and 344 CFU·m−3 for Hotel A respectively; and 2000 CFU·m−3 and 532 CFU·m−3 for Botel B respectively. β-hemolytic streptococci were negative in all samples; the respirable particulate matter, microorganisms and dust accumulation on the inner surface of air ducts, Legionella pneumophila IN cooling water and condensate samples all met the standards. The results of Illumina HiSeq sequencing showed that a total of 17322 microorganisms were reported in the 12 samples, with bacterial microbiota accounting for 97.31% of the classified genes and the remaining 2.69% were from fungi, viruses, and parasites. At the species level, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas, Alternaria, and Malassezia were the dominant microbial taxa measured in this survey. The results of α-diversity analysis showed that the values of Shannon index, Simpson index, and Chao1 index for the three groups of samples were duct > filter > water sample. The goods coverage indices of all sample groups s were close to 1. The principal component analysis showed that the contributions of two principal components were 19.27% and 14.25%, respectively, in which the samples of the filter and duct groups were better clustered into one category. Conclusion The overall hygiene conditions of the two hotels are good, except for the serious microbial contamination in the air supply of HVAC. Metagenomic sequencing reveals complex microbial communities of HVAC, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. The species composition vary by sample groups, particularly the species compositions of the samples from filters and ducts are close and dominated by pathogenic microorganisms of human origin, suggesting that the potential biosafety hazards of HVAC should not be ignored.

Analysis of contaminated microorganisms in commercial honey / 上海预防医学

Objective To investigate the microbial contamination in 54 batches of commercial honey. Methods Aerobic plate colony counts for bacteria and colonies of mould and osmophilic yeasts in honey were determined according to the National Food Safety Standard. The bacteria and fungi in unqualified samples were further identified and analyzed by morphology， MALDI-TOF-MS and large subunit （LSU） rRNA gene sequence. Results Three unqualified batches were found. One batch had aerobic plate colony counts exceeding the standard， with a variety of bacteria including Bacillus sp.， Paenibacillus sp. and Brevibacillus sp. Two batches had mould counts exceeding the standard. Aspergillus sp was detected in both samples （from the same manufacturer）， and the DNA sequence homology was very high， suggesting the mould might come from the same pollution source. Conclusion There are many kinds of microbial contamination in honey. Manufacturers should strengthen the microbe control in monitoring process to avoid the repeated microbial contamination.

Calidad microbiológica del aire en un Centro Comunitario de Salud Familiar de Talcahuano, Región del Biobío, Chile / Microbiological air quality in a Community Family Health Center of Talcahuano, Biobío Region, Chile

INTRODUCCIÓN: La calidad del aire en centros de salud es fundamental para resguardar la salud de las personas. En Chile, los Centros Comunitarios de Salud Familiar (CECOSF) son lugares de gran concurrencia de personas, favoreciendo la diseminación de microorganismos. OBJETIVO: Evaluar la calidad microbiológica del aire al interior del CECOSF-Centinela en Talcahuano, Región del Biobío. METODOLOGÍA: Se tomó muestras de aire en seis salas del CECOSF, quincenalmente, entre julio de 2018 y junio de 2019, con el equipo MAS-100 NT, empleando agar tripticasa y agar Sabouraud. Diferentes morfotipos de bacterias y hongos fueron identificados mediante RPC. RESULTADOS: Los recuentos de bacterias y hongos variaron entre 9,1 × 101 - 2,4 × 103 ufc/m3 y 10 - 1,5 × 102 ufc/m3, respectivamente. El aire de la sala de espera presentó los recuentos más altos, tanto para bacterias como hongos (P < 0,05). Se identificó Staphylococcus, Enterococcus, Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter, destacando las especies Staphylococcus aureus y Pseudomonas oryzihabitans, microrganismo este último, descrito actualmente como patógeno nosocomial. Entre los hongos se identificó Aspergillus, Meyerozyma y Rhodotorula. CONCLUSIÓN: Las muestras de aire del CECOSF-Centinela presentan microrganismos de importancia en salud humana. De ahí la necesidad de formular programas de monitoreo más regulares para controlar la calidad del aire al interior de estos establecimientos.

BACKGROUND: Indoor air quality in health centers is essential to protect the health of people. In Chile, the Community Family Health Centers (CECOSF) are places with large attendance of people, favoring the dissemination of microorganisms, and there are no reports of the microbial air loading these health centers. AIM: To evaluate the microbiological indoor air quality in CECOSF-Centinela in Talcahuano, Biobío Region. METHODS: Air samples were taken in 6 rooms of the CECOSF, every 15 days between July 2018 and June 2019, with the MAS-100 NT equipment using trypticase and Sabouraud agars. Different morphotypes of bacteria and fungi were identified by PCR. Results: The bacterial and fungal counts varied between 9.1 × 101 - 2.4 × 103 cfu/m3 and 10 - 1.5 × 102 cfu/m3, respectively. The air in the waiting room presented the highest counts, both for bacteria and fungi (P < 0.05). Staphylococcus, Enterococcus, Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter were identified, highlighting the species Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas oryzihabitans, the latter described as a nosocomial pathogen. Among the fungi, Aspergillus, Meyerozyma and Rhodotorula were identified. CONCLUSION: The indoor air of the CECOSF-Centinela presents microorganisms of importance in human health. Therefore, it is necessary to formulate more regular monitoring programs for the control of air quality inside these health centers.

Occurrence of Escherichia coli in salmon sashimis commercialized in restaurants from Londrina - PR / Ocorrência de Escherichia coli em sashimis de salmão comercializados em restaurantes de Londrina - PR

The population interest for fish consumption has increased, mainly due to several beneficial nutritional properties presented by this food. In this context, oriental culinary also brings different eating habits as consume raw food, such as sashimi. A relevant food contaminant of fecal origin is Escherichia coli, able to become potentially harmful, when it acquires virulence factors, as Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC). This study aimed to evaluate 30 samples of salmon sashimi regarding the presence of E. coli, as well as perform the genotypic characterization of virulence factors associated with STEC. Three samples were collected from 10 different restaurants, specialized in Japanese culinary in the city of Londrina - PR. The E. coli identification was performed using the Colilert® chromogenic substrate technique and biochemical tests, and for the investigation of virulence genes, stx1 and stx2, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used. Among the 30 samples analyzed, 15 (50%) presented contamination by E. coli. However, in no sample were detected virulence factors associated with STEC. Although human diseases associated with STEC are poorly described in Brazil, it is possible to verify that fish, mainly those consumed raw, are potential transmitters of E. coli to humans. This can compromise the food safety of these products and, thus, characterize them as unsuitable for consumption. Therefore, it is necessary the adoption of preventive measures of contamination by E. coli in products intended to human consumption, beyond more research that can verify the potential of STEC as a fish contaminant. (AU)

O interesse da população pelo consumo de peixe tem aumentado, principalmente devido às diversas propriedades nutricionais benéficas apresentadas por este alimento. Neste contexto, a culinária oriental também traz diferentes hábitos alimentares, como consumir alimentos crus, tais como o sashimi. Um relevante contaminante alimentar de origem fecal é Escherichia coli, capaz de tornarse potencialmente danosa ao adquirir fatores de virulência, como E. coli produtora de toxina Shiga (STEC). Este estudo objetivou avaliar 30 amostras de sashimi de salmão quanto à presença de E. coli, bem como realizar a caracterização genotípica de fatores de virulência associados com STEC. Três amostras foram coletadas de 10 diferentes restaurantes especializados em culinária japonesa da cidade de Londrina - PR. A identificação de E. coli foi realizada utilizando a técnica de substrato cromogênico Colilert® e testes bioquímicos, e para a investigação dos genes de virulência, stx1 e stx2, a reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) foi utilizada. Dentre as 30 amostras analisadas, 15 (50%) apresentaram contaminação por E. coli. Contudo, em nenhuma das amostras foram detectados fatores de virulência associados com STEC. Embora as doenças humanas associadas com STEC sejam pouco descritas no Brasil, é possível verificar que os peixes, principalmente aqueles consumidos crus, são potenciais transmissores de E. coli aos humanos. Isto pode comprometer a segurança alimentar destes produtos e, assim, caracterizá-los como impróprios para o consumo. Portanto, é necessária a adoção de medidas preventivas de contaminação por E. coli nos produtos destinados ao consumo humano, além de mais pesquisas que possam verificar o potencial de STEC como um contaminante de peixes. (AU)

Identification of Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes, and indicator microorganisms in commercialized raw meats and fresh sausages from Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Identificação de Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes e micro-organismos indicadores em carnes cruas e embutidos frescais comercializados na cidade de Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

ABSTRACT: This study evaluated the sanitary hygienic quality and the presence of pathogenic microorganisms in raw meats and fresh sausages marketed in the city of Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brazil. We analyzed 238 samples of fresh sausages, beef, pork, and chicken from 18 commercial establishments (butchers, supermarkets, and groceries). Samples were subjected to enumerate hygiene indicator microorganisms (mesophilic aerobes and enterobacteria) and detection of Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes. The mean counts of mesophilic aerobes and enterobacteria were 5.09 and 3.54 log CFU/g, respectively. Beef samples presented the highest frequency of Salmonella spp. (7.93%) and fresh sausages present the highest frequency of L. monocytogenes (19.04%). Among the analyzed samples, 43.70% did not comply with the microbiological parameters established by the Brazilian Ministry of Health. The presence of Salmonella spp. and L. monocytogenes in different samples and commercial establishments demonstrate the failures of good manufacturing practices in industrial environmental and retails points and the need to train food handlers to reduce the exposure of consumers to potential risks.

RESUMO: Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a qualidade higiênica sanitária e a presença de microrganismos patogênicos em carnes in natura e linguiças frescais comercializadas na cidade de Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brasil. Foram analisadas 238 amostras de linguiças, carne bovina, suína e de frango de 18 estabelecimentos comerciais (açougues, supermercados e mercearias). As amostras foram submetidas à enumeração de microrganismos indicadores de higiene (aeróbios mesófilos e enterobactérias) e detecção de Salmonella spp. e Listeria monocytogenes. As contagens médias de aeróbios mesófilos e enterobactérias foram 5,09 e 3,54 log UFC/g, respectivamente. Salmonella spp. esteve presente mais frequentemente em amostras de carne bovina (4,91 %), enquanto L. monocytogenes foi mais frequente em linguiças frescais (19,04 %). Das amostras analisadas, 43,70 % não atenderam aos parâmetros microbiológicos estabelecidos pelo Ministério da Saúde. A presença de Salmonella spp. e L. monocytogenes em diferentes amostras e estabelecimentos comerciais demonstra falhas de boas práticas de fabricação na indústria e pontos de venda, além da necessidade de treinar manipuladores de alimentos para reduzir a exposição dos consumidores à riscos.

El efecto inhibitorio del EDTA sobre el crecimiento microbiano en suspensiones de propofol / The inhibitory effect of EDTA on microbial growth in propofol suspensions

Resumen: Las suspensiones comerciales de propofol, por su composición farmacéutica, soportan el crecimiento de diversos microorganismos; la aplicación de propofol, contaminado microbianamente luego de ser retirado de su envase original, ha sido vinculada a brotes de infección postoperatoria. La adición de sales de ácido etilendiaminotetraacético (EDTA) retarda el crecimiento de estos microorganismos. Aquí se comparó el crecimiento, a lo largo de 48 horas y en tres temperaturas (ambiente, 35 y 42 oC), de siete cepas bacterianas y tres de levaduras, en cuatro formulaciones de propofol disponibles en México, una de ellas adicionada con EDTA. Consistentemente, el crecimiento fue menor en la suspensión con EDTA, comparada con las tres que no lo contienen, con variaciones entre microorganismos y temperaturas: desde muerte inicial de parte del inóculo, o inhibición completa y sostenida del crecimiento, hasta inhibición parcial. Aunque la adición de EDTA no debe considerarse como un sustituto del manejo aséptico del propofol, que debe extenderse durante el período perioperatorio, ciertamente disminuye la proliferación microbiana que puede darse por contaminación accidental, disminuyendo asimismo el riesgo de infección para el paciente.

Abstract: Commercially available propofol suspensions, due to their pharmaceutical composition, support the growth of several microorganisms; the administration of propofol suspensions that became microbially-contaminated after being removed from their original vial, has been linked to postsurgical infections. Addition of ethylenediaminetetracetic acid (EDTA) salts delays the growth of such microorganisms. Here, we compared the growth of seven bacterial strains and three yeast strains, along 48 hours and at three different incubation temperatures (room temperature, 35 and 42 oC), in four propofol formulations available in Mexico, one of them with supplemented EDTA. Consistently, microbial growth was diminished in the formulation supplemented with EDTA, compared to the other three, although with variations between microorganisms and incubation temperatures: from initial reduction in viable organisms, to complete and sustained growth inhibition, to only partial growth inhibition. While the addition of EDTA to propofol suspensions must not be considered as a substitute for aseptic handling of the drug, it certainly diminishes microbial growth that can occur after accidental contamination, reducing the infection risk for the patient.

Comparing safekeeping practices in preventing microbial contamination of opened single-use ampules

@#<p style="text-align: justify;">As observed in today's health care setting, ampules, which are designed for single-use are still persistently reused when there is a drug left-over, in order to aid the patients lessen the cost of health care. Leaving the ampules exposed, covered with a micropore or cotton plug in the patient's immediate bedside are believed to be beneficial in controlling contamination. This study aimed to compare the practices in safekeeping of opened single-use ampules in a closed plastic container in two environments utilizing a 2 x 3 experimental factorial research design. The specimens were collected from 180 ampules' neck after 6 hours of exposure, which were then cultured; the resultant colony forming units were counted expressed in CFU/mL. The use of various practices in safekeeping, use of a closed plastic container and two environments were not significant in preventing contamination. Results demonstrated that none of the current practices in safekeeping was effective in controlling the number of microbial contaminants. Hence adherence to their nature, "single-use" must be advocated despite circumstance of having a drug left over.</p>

Dynamics and diversity of the bacterial community during the spontaneous decay of açai (Euterpe oleracea) fruits

Abstract The biodiversity and evolution of the microbial community in açai fruits (AF) between three geographical origins and two spontaneous decay conditions were examined by applying culture-independent methods. Culture-independent methods based on 16S rRNA from fifteen samples revealed that Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Acidobacteria were the most abundant phyla. At the genus level, Massilia (taxon with more than 50% of the sequences remaining constant during the 30 h of decay), Pantoea, Naxibacter, Enterobacter, Raoultella and Klebsiella were identified, forming the carposphere bacterial microbiota of AF. AF is fibre-rich and Massilia bacteria could find a large quantity of substrate for its growth through cellulase production. Beta diversity showed that the quality parameters of AF (pH, soluble solids, titratable acidity and lipids) and elemental analysis (C, N, H and C/N ratio) were unable to drive microbial patterns in AF. This research offers new insight into the indigenous bacterial community composition on AF as a function of spontaneous postharvest decay.

Dynamics and diversity of the bacterial community during the spontaneous decay of açai (Euterpe oleracea) fruits

Abstract The biodiversity and evolution of the microbial community in açai fruits (AF) between three geographical origins and two spontaneous decay conditions were examined by applying culture-independent methods. Culture-independent methods based on 16S rRNA from fifteen samples revealed that Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Acidobacteria were the most abundant phyla. At the genus level, Massilia (taxon with more than 50% of the sequences remaining constant during the 30 h of decay), Pantoea, Naxibacter, Enterobacter, Raoultella and Klebsiella were identified, forming the carposphere bacterial microbiota of AF. AF is fibre-rich and Massilia bacteria could find a large quantity of substrate for its growth through cellulase production. Beta diversity showed that the quality parameters of AF (pH, soluble solids, titratable acidity and lipids) and elemental analysis (C, N, H and C/N ratio) were unable to drive microbial patterns in AF. This research offers new insight into the indigenous bacterial community composition on AF as a function of spontaneous postharvest decay.

Microbiological quality of Argentinian paprika / Calidad microbiológica del pimentón argentino

The aim of this study was to evaluate the microbiological quality of paprika produced in Catamarca, Argentina. Microbiological analyses were carried out for the enumeration of total aerobic mesophilic bacteria, coliforms, yeasts and molds, and the detection of Salmonella in samples obtained from different local producers during three consecutive years. The mycobiota was identified paying special attention to the mycotoxigenic molds. Standard plate counts of aerobic mesophilic bacteria ranged from 2.7 x 10(5) to 3.7 x 10(7)CFU/g. Coliform counts ranged from <10 to 8.1 x 10(4) CFU/g. Salmonella was not detected in any of the samples tested. Fungal counts (including yeasts and molds) ranged between 2 x 10² and 1.9 x 10(5) CFU/g. These results showed a high level of microbial contamination, exceeding in several samples the maximum limits set in international food regulations. The study of the mycobiota demonstrated that Aspergillus was the predominant genus and Aspergillus niger (potential producer of ochratoxin A) the most frequently isolated species, followed by Aspergillus flavus (potential producer of aflatoxins). Other species of potential toxigenic fungi such as Aspergillus ochraceus, Aspergillus westerdijkiae, Penicillium chrysogenum, Penicillium crustosum, Penicillium commune, Penicillium expansum and Alternaria tenuissima species group were encountered as part of the mycobiota of the paprika samples indicating a risk of mycotoxin contamination. A. westerdijkiae was isolated for the first time in Argentina.

El pimentón es considerado una de las especias más proclives a contaminarse con diversos tipos de microorganismos, incluyendo patógenos como Salmonella y hongos capaces de producir micotoxinas. Existen muy pocos datos acerca de la contaminación microbiana del pimentón producido en nuestro país. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue evaluar la calidad microbiológica del pimentón (Capsicum annum L.) producido en la provincia de Catamarca, una de las principales zonas productoras del norte argentino. Se realizó el recuento de bacterias aerobias mesófilas, coliformes totales y mohos y levaduras, y la búsqueda de Salmonella en muestras obtenidas de diferentes establecimientos productores locales durante 3 años consecutivos. Se identificaron todas las cepas fúngicas (1.622 aislamientos) a nivel de género y se determinaron las especies pertenecientes a los géneros potencialmente toxinógenos. Los recuentos totales de bacterias aerobias mesófilas variaron entre 2,7 x 10(5)y3,7 x 10(7)UFC/g. Los coliformes totales estuvieron en el rango de < 10 a 8,1 x 10(4) UFC/g. Salmonella no fue detectada en ninguna de las muestras analizadas. Los resultados obtenidos muestran un alto nivel de contaminación, que excede en varias de las muestras los límites máximos establecidos en las regulaciones alimentarias internacionales. El estudio de la micobiota demostró que Aspergillus fue el género predominante. Otros géneros encontrados fueron Cladosporium, Rhizopus, Alternaría y Penicillium. Aspergillus niger (potencial productor de ocratoxina A) fue la especie aislada con mayor frecuencia, seguida de Aspergillus flavus (potencial productor de aflatoxinas). También se encontraron otras especies toxinógenas, lo que indica un riesgo potencial de contaminación con micotoxinas. Aspergillus westerdijkiae fue aislado por primera vez en Argentina.

Analysis and Countermeasures of Microbial Contamination in Methadone Hydrochloride Oral Solution / 中国药师

Objective:To analyze the causes of microbial contamination in methadone hydrochloride oral solution used for the ma-intenance treatment of heroin addict in Guangxi and propose the relative countermeasures. Methods:The samples of methadone hydro-chloride oral solution were obtained from 10 maintenance treatment clinics, and then the microbial limit test and identification were per-formed,the content of preservative was detected and the relationship between the preservative content and microbial contamination was studied. Results:The total number of aerobe in the samples of methadone hydrochloride oral solution from the 10 clinics was all over the standard limit value of 100 cfu·ml-1 ,and the main contaminating germ was Burkholderia cepacia. The contents of sorbic acid were 78. 2％-98. 3％,the four batches with the lowest concentration of preservative were detected with higher total number of aerobe. Con-clusion:The microbial contamination in methadone hydrochloride oral solution from the 10 maintenance treatment clinics is severe,and the environment of medicine packaging, content of preservatives, packaging machine and storage conditions are the primary causes for the microbial contamination. To ensure drug quality safety, it is suggested that the environment cleanliness of medicine packaging be improved, suitable content of preservatives be added, packaging machine be clean, the products be stored in shade and the quality be tested regularly.

Analysis of the microbial contamination status of trichosanthis fructus decoction pieces / 中国药学杂志

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the microbial contamination of trichosanthis fructus decoction pieces, and provide a reference for the test method and standard of the microbial limit. METHODS: Trichosanthis fructus decoction pieces were tested for the total aerobe microbial count, the total combined yeasts and molds count, the thermoduric bacteria count, the bile-tolerant gram-negative bacteria, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella. RESULTS: The total contamination percentages of aerobes, combined yeasts and molds, thermoduric bacteria, bile-tolerant gram-negative bacteria of trichosanthis fructus are 100%, 59%, 91%, and 91%, respectively. Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and salmonella of trichosanthis fructus were not detected. CONCLUSION: To assure the safety of trichosanthis fructus decoction pieces, it is recommended to control the total aerobe microbial count, the total combined yeasts and molds count, the thermoduric bacteria count, the bile-tolerant gram-negative bacteria, escherichia coli, staphylococcus aureus, pseudomonas aeruginosa and salmonella.

Microbial Contamination and Evaluation of Inoculum Volume in Umbilical Cord Blood Culture / 대한임상미생물학회지

BACKGROUND: Microbial screening tests of umbilical cord blood (UCB) are essential for stem cell transplantation. We analyzed the microbial contamination rate and distribution of isolated microorganisms over 10 years of samples from the MEDIPOST Cord Blood Bank. In addition, we studied the influence of inoculum volume microorganism culture and compared the yield and speed of microorganism detection. METHODS: Microbial screening tests were performed using a manual method, which includes using an inoculum of 2 mL of plasma, a byproduct of UCB processing from pediatric culture bottles. When positive blood culture was detected, each set was once again inoculated with 2 mL and 4 mL of plasma. RESULTS: From 2004 to 2013, a total of 133,610 UCB units were screened, of which 1,311 (0.9%) tested positive for contamination. The most frequently identified microorganism was Escherichia coli (34.6%), followed by Bacillus spp. (12.8%), Enterococcus faecalis (5.3%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (4.4%). The total yield rate increased by 0.2% over this time period, although the yield rate of Bacillus spp. increased by 8.3%. CONCLUSION: The results of this study could be used in many ways with both domestic and international data regarding cord blood contamination. Also, other microbiology laboratories using culture conditions similar to ours could refer this study when preparing guidelines. Finally, by detecting low levels of bacteria, we have contributed to cord blood safety.

Molecular characterization of microbial contaminants isolated from Umbilical Cord Blood Units for transplant

ABSTRACT Disposal of Umbilical Cord Blood Units due to microbial contamination is a major problem in Cord Blood Banks worldwide as it reduces the number of units available for transplantation. Additionally, economic losses are generated as result of resources and infrastructure used to obtain such units. Umbilical Cord Blood Units that showed initial microbial contamination were subject to strains isolation, identification, and characterization by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene and Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus (ERIC-PCR). Moreover, tests of antimicrobial resistance/sensitivity and phenotypic activities that may play an important role in microbial infection were performed. Microbial contamination was detected in 120 Umbilical Cord Blood Units (2.31%) in the period from 2003 to 2013. The most frequently isolated strains were Enterococcus faecium, followed by Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus haemoliticus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterococcus durans, Lactobacillus helveticus, Enterococcus hiriae and Roseomonas genomospecies 5. The ERIC-PCR assays revealed a wide genetic diversity in some strains although belonging to the same genus and specie, indicating different sources of contamination. Broad-spectrum penicillins, third generation cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, and fluoroquinolones showed lower inhibitory activity on the tested strains. All strains were proteolytic, 67.69% were amylase-positive, 27.6% hemolysis-positive, and 34.71% nuclease-positive. The most common sources of contamination were: vaginal flora, digestive tract, and skin flora, highlighting the need for staff training in good manufacturing practices in collection SCU since all contaminants identified are part of the microbial flora of the donors. Implications and consequences in the therapeutic use of Umbilical Cord Blood Units for transplantation contaminated by multiresistant bacteria in immunocompromised patients are discussed.

Detection and analysis of microbial contamination in chinese herbal medicine: Anemones Raddeanae Rhizoma and Taxilli Herba / 中国药学杂志

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the microbial contamination in Anemones Raddeanae Rhizoma and Taxilli Herba to provide a reference for microbiological examination of Chinese herbal medicines. METHODS: Anemones Raddeanae Rhizoma and Taxilli Herba were analyzed according to the Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2015 Edition (publicity draft) and the methods of National Institutes for Food and Drug Control for thermoduric bacteria and specified microoganisms. RESULTS: The microbial contamination in 23 batches samples of the two Chinese herbal medicines was serious. CONCLUSION: There is an urgent need to control the microbial contamination of Chinese herbal medicines and Chinese medicines to improve their quality.

The experimental study of the microbial contamination after the puncture needle downward and ex-posed in the air of infusion bottle stopper / 中国实用护理杂志

Objective To study the relationship between the exposure time of puncture needle of infusion bottle stopper and microbial contamination during clinical intravenous transfusion. Methods A total of 600 cases from November 1, 2014 to January 31, 2015 who have received the clinical intravenous transfusion for investigation were selected.When replacing the infusion bottle (bag), inserting the puncture needle slowly across the bottle stopper and making the needle tip be canted to the transfusion bottle mouth (bag) of the rubber plug, gently squeezing the Murphy's tube until solution was not dripping, recording down the exposure time in the air of the needle tip from medicine droplet to the end. To dip the lower part with sterile swabs and culture the swabs in nutrient broth medium. Meanwhile, to replace the next bottle of medicine and get the remaining 2 ml of liquids into the culture broth medium, after 48 h, both of which medium were switched to blood plate culture cultivation for observing the general situation of the bacteria growth. Results Among the 600 cases of clinical transfusion, 24 cases were positive for sterile swabs microorganisms culture, positive rate was 4.0%, among which microorganisms, 15 cases were gram-positive coccus, 3 cases were gram-negative bacillus, 3 cases were gram-positive bacillus and 3 cases were fungi. Correspondingly, 3 cases were positive for liquid broth culture, positive rate was 0.5%as the gram-positive coccus. The exposure time and broth microbial culture result was statistically significant, while the exposure time and medicinal broth microorganisms culture result possesses had no statistical significance. Conclusions Inserting the puncture needle across the bottle stopper could successfully reduce the liquid drug residues in the infusion bottle (bag), however, which might also cause time-dependent microbial contamination during the exposure process in the air.