Peptidolytic microbial community of methanogenic reactors from two modified UASBs of brewery industries

We studied the peptide-degrading anaerobic communities of methanogenic reactors from two mesophilic full-scale modified upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactors treating brewery wastewater in Colombia. Most probable number (MPN) counts varied between 7.1 x 10(8) and 6.6 x 10(9) bacteria/g volatile suspended solids VSS (Methanogenic Reactor 1) and 7.2 x 10(6) and 6.4 x 10(7) bacteria/g (VSS) (Methanogenic Reactor 2). Metabolites detected in the highest positive MPN dilutions in both reactors were mostly acetate, propionate, isovalerate and, in some cases, negligible concentrations of butyrate. Using the highest positive dilutions of MPN counts, 50 dominant strains were isolated from both reactors, and 12 strains were selected for sequencing their 16S rRNA gene based on their phenotypic characteristics. The small-subunit rRNA gene sequences indicated that these strains were affiliated to the families Propionibacteriaceae, Clostridiaceae and Syntrophomonadaceae in the low G + C gram-positive group and Desulfovibrio spp. in the class d-Proteobacteria. The main metabolites detected in the highest positive dilutions of MPN and the presence of Syntrophomonadaceae indicate the effect of the syntrophic associations on the bioconversion of these substrates in methanogenic reactors. Additionally, the potential utilization of external electron acceptors for the complete degradation of amino acids by Clostridium strains confirms the relevance of these acceptors in the transformation of peptides and amino acids in these systems.

Tistlia consotensis gen. nov., sp. nov., an aerobic, chemoheterotrophic, free-living, nitrogen-fixing alphaproteobacterium, isolated from a Colombian saline spring.

A Gram-negative, aerobic, mesophilic, non-spore-forming, chemotrophic, chlorophyll-lacking, nitrogen-fixing bacterium, designated strain USBA 355(T), was isolated from the saline spring 'Salado de Consotá' situated in the Colombian Andes. The non-flagellated cells of strain USBA 355(T) were straight to slightly curved rods (0.6-0.7 x 3.0-3.5 microm). Growth occurred optimally at 30 degrees C (growth temperature range between 20 and 40 degrees C), at pH 6.5-6.7 (pH growth range between 5.0 and 8.0) and at 0.5 % NaCl (w/v) (range between 0 and 4 %). The major quinone present was Q-10 and the predominant fatty acids identified were C(19 : 0) cyclo omega8c, C(18 : 1)omega7c and C(18 : 0). The G+C content of the chromosomal DNA was 71+/-1 mol%. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that strain USBA 355(T) formed a distant phylogenetic line of descent with members of the genus Thalassobaculum, family Rhodospirillaceae, class Alphaproteobacteria (90 % gene sequence similarity). Comparison of the phylogenetic, chemotaxonomic and physiological features of strain USBA 355(T) with all other members of the family Rhodospirillaceae suggested that it represents a novel genus and species for which the name Tistlia consotensis gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of the type species is USBA 355(T) (=JCM 15529(T)=KCTC 22406(T)).

Dethiosulfovibrio salsuginis sp. nov., an anaerobic, slightly halophilic bacterium isolated from a saline spring.

A mesophilic, strictly anaerobic, slightly halophilic bacterium, designated strain USBA 82(T), was isolated from a terrestrial saline spring in the Colombian Andes. The non-spore-forming curved rods (5-7 x 1.3 microm) with pointed or rounded ends, stained Gram-negative and were motile by means of laterally inserted flagella. The strain grew optimally at 30 degrees C (growth range 20-40 degrees C), pH 7.3 (growth range pH 5.5-8.5) and 2 % (w/v) NaCl (growth range 0.1-7 % NaCl). The strain fermented peptides, amino acids and a few organic acids, but growth was not observed on carbohydrates, alcohols or fatty acids. The strain reduced thiosulfate and sulfur to sulfide. Sulfate, sulfite, nitrate and nitrite were not used as electron acceptors. On peptone alone, acetate, succinate, propionate and traces of ethanol were formed, but in the presence of thiosulfate, acetate and succinate were formed. The G+C content of the chromosomal DNA was 52 mol% (T(m)). 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that strain USBA 82(T) was affiliated to Dethiosulfovibrio peptidovorans within the phylum Synergistetes with a similarity value of approximately 93 %. Based on the differences between the new strain and the type species of the genus Dethiosulfovibrio, we suggest that strain USBA 82(T) represents a novel species of the genus for which the name Dethiosulfovibrio salsuginis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is USBA 82(T) (=DSM 21565(T)=KCTC 5659(T)).

Peptidolytic Microbial Community of Methanogenic Reactors from two Modified Uasbs of Brewery Industries.

We studied the peptide-degrading anaerobic communities of methanogenic reactors from two mesophilic full-scale modified upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactors treating brewery wastewater in Colombia. Most probable number (MPN) counts varied between 7.1 x 10(8) and 6.6 × 10(9) bacteria/g volatile suspended solids VSS (Methanogenic Reactor 1) and 7.2 × 10(6) and 6.4 × 10(7) bacteria/g (VSS) (Methanogenic Reactor 2). Metabolites detected in the highest positive MPN dilutions in both reactors were mostly acetate, propionate, isovalerate and, in some cases, negligible concentrations of butyrate. Using the highest positive dilutions of MPN counts, 50 dominant strains were isolated from both reactors, and 12 strains were selected for sequencing their 16S rRNA gene based on their phenotypic characteristics. The small-subunit rRNA gene sequences indicated that these strains were affiliated to the families Propionibacteriaceae, Clostridiaceae and Syntrophomonadaceae in the low G + C gram-positive group and Desulfovibrio spp. in the class δ-Proteobacteria. The main metabolites detected in the highest positive dilutions of MPN and the presence of Syntrophomonadaceae indicate the effect of the syntrophic associations on the bioconversion of these substrates in methanogenic reactors. Additionally, the potential utilization of external electron acceptors for the complete degradation of amino acids by Clostridium strains confirms the relevance of these acceptors in the transformation of peptides and amino acids in these systems.

Peptidolytic microbial community of methanogenic reactors from two modified UASBs of brewery industries

We studied the peptide-degrading anaerobic communities of methanogenic reactors from two mesophilic full-scale modified upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactors treating brewery wastewater in Colombia. Most probable number (MPN) counts varied between 7.1 x 10(8) and 6.6 x 10(9) bacteria/g volatile suspended solids VSS (Methanogenic Reactor 1) and 7.2 x 10(6) and 6.4 x 10(7) bacteria/g (VSS) (Methanogenic Reactor 2). Metabolites detected in the highest positive MPN dilutions in both reactors were mostly acetate, propionate, isovalerate and, in some cases, negligible concentrations of butyrate. Using the highest positive dilutions of MPN counts, 50 dominant strains were isolated from both reactors, and 12 strains were selected for sequencing their 16S rRNA gene based on their phenotypic characteristics. The small-subunit rRNA gene sequences indicated that these strains were affiliated to the families Propionibacteriaceae, Clostridiaceae and Syntrophomonadaceae in the low G + C gram-positive group and Desulfovibrio spp. in the class d-Proteobacteria. The main metabolites detected in the highest positive dilutions of MPN and the presence of Syntrophomonadaceae indicate the effect of the syntrophic associations on the bioconversion of these substrates in methanogenic reactors. Additionally, the potential utilization of external electron acceptors for the complete degradation of amino acids by Clostridium strains confirms the relevance of these acceptors in the transformation of peptides and amino acids in these systems.

Aminiphilus circumscriptus gen. nov., sp. nov., an anaerobic amino-acid-degrading bacterium from an upflow anaerobic sludge reactor.

Strain ILE-2(T) was isolated from an upflow anaerobic sludge bed reactor treating brewery wastewater. The motile, non-sporulating, slightly curved cells (2-4 x 0.1 microm) stained Gram-negative and grew optimally at 42 degrees C and pH 7.1 with 0.5 % NaCl. The strain required yeast extract for growth and fermented Casamino acids, peptone, isoleucine, arginine, lysine, alanine, valine, glutamate, histidine, glutamine, methionine, malate, fumarate, glycerol and pyruvate to acetate, propionate and minor amounts of branched-chain fatty acids. Carbohydrates, formate, acetate, propionate, butyrate, isovalerate, methanol, ethanol, 1-propanol, butanol, lactate, succinate, starch, casein, gelatin, xylan and a number of other amino acids were not utilized. The DNA G+C content of strain ILE-2(T) was 52.7 mol%. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed that ILE-2(T) was distantly related to members of the genera Aminobacterium (83 % similarity) and Aminomonas (85 % similarity) in the family Syntrophomonadaceae, order Clostridiales, phylum Firmicutes. On the basis of the results of our polyphasic analysis, strain ILE-2(T) represents a novel species and genus within the family Syntrophomonadaceae, for which the name Aminiphilus circumscriptus gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Aminiphilus circumscriptus is ILE-2(T) (=DSM 16581(T) =JCM 14039(T)).

[Sexually transmitted diseases, AIDS, and use/abuse of psychoactive substances in adolescence] / Doenças sexualmente transmissíveis, AIDS e uso/abuso de substâncias psicoativas na adolescência.

OBJECTIVE: To discuss theoretical and practical aspects of sexually transmitted diseases, AIDS, and psychoactive substances in adolescence, focusing on a holistic and multiprofessional approach. METHODS: Review of national and international literature on concepts, classifications, social and cultural, clinical, therapeutic and preventive aspects of sexually transmitted diseases/AIDS, as well as the use of psychoactive substances, with the aim of pointing out problem-solving alternatives. RESULTS: Adolescents do not show resilient behavior and are vulnerable to environmental hazards. For this reason, preventive actions and intervention for the control of sexually transmitted diseases/AIDS and use or abuse of psychoactive substances among adolescents are a priority. According to the World Health Organization, one out of 20 adolescents acquires sexually transmitted disease in the world every year and, more than 7,000 are infected by HIV every day, totaling 2.6 millions a year. This scenario results from unprotected sex and from the interaction between sexually transmitted diseases and psychoactive substances, especially alcohol. CONCLUSIONS: It is crucial that health care providers consider magnitude, transcendence, vulnerability and feasibility as well as the set of interactions among substance, individual, and his/her social and cultural environment when the multifocal and holistic approach is used. This requires the formation of a support and protection network, involving the family, physicians, community, and adolescents. The major element in this network, though, are the adolescent themselves, who can overcome their conflicts, aiming at a healthy and longer life.

[Sexuality in adolescence: development, experience, and proposals for intervention] / Sexualidade na adolescência: desenvolvimento, vivência e propostas de intervenção.

OBJECTIVE: To present a literature review of some aspects concerning the development of sexuality in the period between childhood and adolescence, and to work on some proposals for prevention and intervention. METHODS: Review of literature on relevant issues related to the process of psychosocial and sexual development during childhood and adolescence, and to the importance of prevention education. RESULTS: Differently from genitality, which is only concerned with biological aspects, sexuality encompasses emotional aspects, life history and cultural values. These factors contribute to the formation of general identity and to the components of sexual identity: gender identity, gender role, and sexual orientation. Psychosocial and sexual development, emotional balance, and social relations are based on sexual experience during childhood and adolescence. During adolescence, the relationship with family and social group go through marked changes: conflicts arise, and experimentation and risk behavior are enhanced. The family, school, and health systems represent important links of identification, support, and protection for children and adolescents before they reach maturity. CONCLUSIONS: Sexuality education, either individually or in group, allows adolescents to experience sexuality and their emotional relations in a satisfactory, creative, and risk-free manner, combined with mutual respect and absence of gender discrimination.

Seroprevalence of HIV, HTLV-I/II and other perinatally-transmitted pathogens in Salvador, Bahia.

Generation of epidemiological data on perinatally-transmitted infections is a fundamental tool for the formulation of health policies. In Brazil, this information is scarce, particularly in Northeast, the poorest region of the country. In order to gain some insights of the problem we studied the seroprevalence of some perinatally-transmitted infections in 1,024 low income pregnant women in Salvador, Bahia. The prevalences were as follow: HIV-1 (0.10%), HTLV-I/II (0.88%), T.cruzi (2.34%). T.pallidum (3.91%), rubella virus (77.44%). T.gondii IgM (2.87%) and IgG (69.34%), HBs Ag (0.6%) and anti-HBs (7.62%). Rubella virus and T.gondii IgG antibodies were present in more than two thirds of pregnant women but antibodies against other pathogens were present at much lower rates. We found that the prevalence of HTLV-I/II was nine times higher than that found for HIV-1. In some cases such as T.cruzi and hepatitis B infection there was a decrease in the prevalence over the years. On the other hand, there was an increase in the seroprevalence of T.gondii infection. Our data strongly recommend mandatory screening tests for HTLV-I/II, T.gondii (IgM), T.pallidum and rubella virus in prenatal routine for pregnant women in Salvador. Screening test for T.cruzi, hepatitis and HIV-1 is recommended whenever risk factors associated with these infections are suspected. However in areas with high prevalence for these infections, the mandatory screening test in prenatal care should be considered.

Demonstration of mycobacterial antigens in skin biopsies fron suspected leprosy cases in the absence of bacilli.

Skin-biopsies from fifty-six patients suspected of early leprosy from Bahia State, Brazil, were examined histopathologically. The Fite-Faraco staining failed to demonstrate acid-fast bacilli in this material. The prominent features of the lesions were inflammation of the neurovascular bundles and sometimes inflammation of the skin appendages. The non-specific infiltrate was predominantly composed of histiocytes and lymphocytes. In 41 cases (73.2%) epidermal atrophy was also present. The avidin-biotin peroxidase technique was used with primary antibodies to detect bacillary antigens (anti-BCG serum) and nerve branches (anti-S-100 protein serum). Immunohistochemical detection of bacillary antigens using the anti-BCG serum was positive in 28 cases (50%). A positive staining for S-100 protein was observed in 40 cases (71.4%) in dendritic antigen-presenting cells of the skin. The detection of bacillary antigens, together with the clear demonstration of nerve bundles enhanced our capacity to fulfill morphologic criteria for the diagnosis of early leprosy. Our observations indicate that the use of immunohistochemical methods represent a useful tool for the early diagnosis of leprosy.

The effects of feeding on arterial blood gases and lung mechanics in newborn infants recovering from respiratory disease.

Fifteen infants recovering from neonatal respiratory disease had arterial blood gases and lung mechanics measured 5 minutes before bolus feeds and at 5, 10, 20, and 30 minutes after feeding to determine physiologic effects of feeding. PaO2 fell significantly from prefeeding values at 5, 10, and 20 minutes after feeds. Mean prefeeding pH and base excess values were significantly different from mean postfeeding values at 5, 10, 20, and 30 minutes, respectively. PaCO2 remained unchanged before and after feeding. Heart rate and systolic and diastolic blood pressure did not change throughout the study. Dynamic lung compliance, respiratory, rate, and tidal volume did not change significantly but there was a trend toward increase in tidal volume. Mean minute volume rose with time as a consequence of the increased tidal volume. Work of breathing remained unchanged at 10 and 20 minutes postfeed and increased slightly at 30 minutes; this was due to a small increase in both elastic and viscous work components at this time.