First description of bacterial and fungal communities in Colombian coffee beans fermentation analysed using Illumina-based amplicon sequencing.

In Colombia, coffee growers use a traditional method of fermentation to remove the cherry pulp surrounding the beans. This process has a great influence on sensory quality and prestige of Colombian coffee in international markets, but has never been studied. Here we use an Illumina-based amplicon sequencing to investigate bacterial and fungal communities associated with spontaneous coffee-bean fermentation in Colombia. Microbial-derived metabolites were further analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Highly diverse bacterial groups, comprising 160 genera belonging to 10 phyla, were found. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB), mainly represented by the genera Leuconostoc and Lactobacillus, showed relative prevalence over 60% at all sampling times. The structure of the fungal community was more homogeneous, with Pichia nakasei dominating throughout the fermentation process. Lactic acid and acetaldehyde were the major end-metabolites produced by LAB and Pichia, respectively. In addition, 20 volatile compounds were produced, comprising alcohols, organic acids, aldehydes, esters, terpenes, phenols, and hydrocarbons. Interestingly, 56 microbial genera, associated with native soil, seawater, plants, insects, and human contact, were detected for the first time in coffee fermentation. These microbial groups harbour a remarkable phenotypic diversity and may impart flavours that yield clues to the terroir of Colombian coffees.

Development of a community-based intervention for the control of Chagas disease based on peridomestic animal management: an eco-bio-social perspective.

BACKGROUND: Integrated vector management strategies depend on local eco-bio-social conditions, community participation, political will and inter-sectorial partnership. Previously identified risk factors for persistent Triatoma dimidiata infestation include the presence of rodents and chickens, tiled roofs, dirt floors, partial wall plastering and dog density. METHODS: A community-based intervention was developed and implemented based on cyclical stakeholder and situational analyses. Intervention implementation and evaluation combined participatory action research and cluster randomized pre-test post-test experimental designs. The intervention included modified insecticide application, education regarding Chagas disease and risk factors, and participatory rodent control. RESULTS: At final evaluation there was no significant difference in post-test triatomine infestation between intervention and control, keeping pre-test rodent and triatomine infestations constant. Knowledge levels regarding Chagas disease and prevention practices including rodent control, chicken management and health service access increased significantly only in intervention communities. The odds of nymph infection and rat infestation were 8.3 and 1.9-fold higher in control compared to intervention communities, respectively. CONCLUSION: Vector control measures without reservoir control are insufficient to reduce transmission risk in areas with persistent triatomine infestation. This integrated vector management program can complement house improvement initiatives by prioritizing households with risk factors such as tiled roofs. Requirement for active participation and multi-sectorial coordination poses implementation challenges.