Fermented Rapeseed Meal as a Component of the Mink Diet (Neovison vison) Modulating the Gastrointestinal Tract Microbiota.

Fermented rapeseed meal (FRSM) was used in the diet of American mink (Neovison vison). An advantage of this product is its prebiotic and functional properties, which can modify the bacterial microbiota of the GIT. A control group and three experimental groups were formed, with 60 animals in each group. The control group received a basal diet and the experimental groups received a diet with a 2%, 4% or 6% of FRSM as a replacement of extruded wheat. Bacillus subtilis strain 87Y was used to ferment the rapeseed meal (RSM). The study was conducted on mink from the age of 16-17 weeks until slaughter. Changes in the microbiota were analysed in samples of the animals' faeces and intestinal contents. The analyses included determination of the total number of bacteria and fungi, the number of coliforms and Escherichia coli, the total number of anaerobic Clostridium perfringens, and the presence of Salmonella spp. In animals receiving 4% and 6% FRSM (groups II and III), the content of microscopic fungi and the number of C. perfringens bacteria was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) lower than in the animals from the control group (group 0). A decrease in E. coli was observed in all experimental groups (I, II and III), although these differences were not statistically significant. The inclusion of FRSM in the feed ration did not affect the number of lactic acid intestinal bacteria. Analysis of the results obtained from the stool samples showed that the inclusion of FRSM in the ration did not significantly affect the number of microorganisms in each group. However, as in the case of the intestinal contents, in these samples there was a decrease in the total number of C. perfringens in the experimental groups (I, II and III), with a simultaneous increase in the number of mesophilic bacteria in relation to the control. There was no detection of Salmonella bacteria in any of the analysed material.

Effect of Fermented Rapeseed Meal on the Gastrointestinal Microbiota and Immune Status of Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus).

The present study was conducted to determine the effect of the use of varying amounts of fermented rapeseed meal in diets for rabbits on the immune status and microbiota of segments of the GIT. Forty 35 day old rabbits used in the experiment were assigned to four groups: the control group (group C) were fed a standard diet and the experimental received 4%, 8% or 12% fermented rapeseed meal (included in place of standard soybean meal). Class A, G and M immunoglobulins were determined in the blood plasma. In the food content collected after slaughter, microbiological parameters were determined for individual sections of the digestive tract. Rabbits from the groups receiving a diet with an increased proportion of fermented rapeseed meal (8% or 12%) had lower concentrations of anaerobic bacteria and Escherichia coli in the intestinal contents. Research has shown that the increase in intake of fermented rapeseed meal was correlated with an increase in the correlations between the immunoglobulin level and the size of the microbial population in the GIT. In light of the presented results fermented rapeseed meal, by supplying valuable bioactive substances, appears to be a good component in the diet of rabbits, enhancing immune system development and helping to prevent disturbances of the gut microbiota.

Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects of human cathelicidin active fragment KR-12 in the mouse models of colitis: a novel potential therapy of inflammatory bowel diseases.

INTRODUCTION: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are a group of chronic gastrointestinal tract disorders with complex etiology, with intestinal dysbiosis as the most prominent factor. In this study, we assessed the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial actions of the human cathelicidin LL-37 and its shortest active fragment, KR-12 in the mouse models of colitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Mouse models of colitis induced by 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS) and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) were used in the study. The extent of inflammation was evaluated based on the macro- and microscopic scores, quantification of myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and microbiological analysis of stool samples. RESULTS: A preliminary study with LL-37 and KR-12 (1 mg/kg, ip, twice daily) showed a decrease in macroscopic and ulcer scores in the acute TNBS-induced model of colitis. We observed that KR-12 (5 mg/kg, ip, twice daily) reduced microscopic and ulcer scores in the semi-chronic and chronic TNBS-induced models of colitis compared with inflamed mice. Furthermore, qualitative and quantitative changes in colonic microbiota were observed: KR-12 (5 mg/kg, ip, twice daily) decreased the overall number of bacteria, Escherichia coli and coli group bacteria. In the semi-chronic DSS-induced model, KR-12 attenuated intestinal inflammation as demonstrated by a reduction in macroscopic score and colon damage score and MPO activity. CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrated that KR-12 alleviates inflammation in four different mouse models of colitis what suggests KR-12 and cathelicidins as a whole are worth being considered as a potential therapeutic option in the treatment of IBD.

Preparation and of PVA-based compositions with embedded silver, copper and zinc oxide nanoparticles and assessment of their antibacterial properties.

A series of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) based liquid compositions with addition of zinc oxide, silver and copper nanoparticles has been prepared. The compositions also contained other consistency-forming organic components. The physico-chemical properties of the products have been determined. Their pH and density have been assessed. Also, the size of nanoparticles has been defined with using a dynamic light scattering technique. The compositions were subjected to XRD, FT-IR and microscopic analysis as well. Thanks to the incorporation of both metal oxide and metallic nanoparticles, it was possible to enrich the products with antibacterial properties. Their inhibiting properties in the growth of microorganisms have been confirmed against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive strains such as E. coli, S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. Thanks to the ability for solidification, the compositions may be applied on a bacterially contaminated surface, and after destroying the microorganisms and its solidification, it may be peeled off along with the dead bacterial film.

Staphylococcus aureus carriage state in healthy adult population and phenotypic and genotypic properties of isolated strains.

INTRODUCTION: At present, infections induced by staphylococci, especially methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are one of key therapeutic and epidemiological problems. AIM: The assessment of Staphylococcus aureus carrier state occurrence among a healthy adult population as well as determination of phenotypic and genotypic properties of the isolated strains. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included 100 healthy individuals. Material for bacteriological evaluation was collected from the posterior pharyngeal wall and tonsils, nasal vestibule and the skin of anterior nares using a sterile swab. The isolates identified as Staphylococcus aureus were analysed further, towards slime-forming capacity and the presence of genes mecA and nuc. RESULTS: The analysis included 300 samples obtained from the posterior vault of the pharynx and tonsils, nasal vestibule and the skin of nares. Pharyngeal and vestibular S. aureus carriage was determined in 20% of the examined adults, whereas in 11 people with recognized positive throat colonization, the concurrent presence of golden staph was detected in the vestibule of the nose and on the skin, in the nose region. Identification process indicated the occurrence of strains defective in clumping factor synthesis (5% of isolates) and lack of the coa gene (11% of examined isolates). The PCR technique used to screen for the presence of the mec gene, did not confirm it in any of the strains under study. All the isolates had the gene encoding the thermostable nuclease nuc. CONCLUSIONS: S. aureus is a pervasive pathogen in community settings with constantly changing trends.

Assessment of the Level of Organic Dust and Mould Spores in the Work Environment of Baker.

AIM: This study was conducted to determine the level of fungal contamination of the air in bakeries to assess health hazards for workers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Six bakeries producing traditionally baked goods were selected for the study. After a background survey, samples of exhaled air were collected to test for fungal aerosols. The inhalable and respirable fraction in the bakery air environment was measured by the gravimetric method. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: All data analyses were performed using Statistica software (v 8.0). RESULTS: The mean concentration of fungi and particles in the bakeries did not exceed the recommended levels. The air in the bakeries had a low level of microbial contamination. The identified fungi included biological agents from hazard group 2. CONCLUSIONS: Proper employee training and the introduction of preventive measures (including both individual and group protection) can significantly reduce employees' exposure and thus their occupational risk.

Occupational exposure level of pig facility workers to chemical and biological pollutants.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of a fattening season on the level of airborne chemical and microbial pollutants in the pig fattening house. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Evaluation of the air composition as well as the microbiological air quality were made during 2 series, i.e. in the summer and winter period of fattening. Airborne gaseous pollutants were analyzed by gas (organic compounds) and liquid (inorganic compounds) chromatography methods. Air microbial contamination was determined in compliance with the Polish Standard PN-EN 13098:2007. RESULTS: The air/gas composition in the pig unit showed that irrespective of the fattening season, the level of determined pollutants - especially ammonia, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including methanethiol and total dust - could have an adverse effect on the health of swine facility workers. The investigated pig building was found to be a source of chemical pollutants as well as biological agents. The total bacterial count in 1 m3 of air was 3.6×106 and 4.6×106 cfu, during the winter and summer periods of fattening, respectively. Gram-positive cocci predominated in both seasons. In the winter, fungi of the Trichoderma genus were represented equally often. In the summer period, up to 90% of the isolated fungus was Aspergillus spp. CONCLUSIONS: Workers engaged in swine rearing and production are occupationally exposed not only to a high concentration of microbial contamination, but also to irritating and odorogenous volatile compounds. Thus, activities directed at the promotion of health prevention strategies, as well as effective guidelines for safe and hygienic animal housing, should be implemented.

Evaluating bioaerosol exposure among bus drivers in the public transport sector.

Occupational hazards and consequent health problems suffered by drivers in the public transport sector require preventive measures. The aim of this study was to assess the exposure of drivers to microbiological air contamination (airborne bacteria and fungi) in buses. The air in public transport vehicles was examined in autumn, winter and spring. To evaluate the exposure of drivers to bioaerosols, air samples were collected and examined for the total number of bacteria and fungi in the air, the number of mesophilic aerobic bacteria specified by the number of colony forming units (CFU) per 1 m3 of air. The results of the research show that public transport as a workplace can be considered to be a significant risk to health.

Evaluation of anti-inflammatory effect of silver-coated glass beads in mice with experimentally induced colitis as a new type of treatment in inflammatory bowel disease.

BACKGROUND: Recent studies point at the anti-inflammatory action of silver through induction of apoptosis of inflammatory cells via oxidative stress, promotion of wound healing as well as antimicrobial effect. Our aim was to design a new formulation based on silver and validate its anti-inflammatory activity in the mouse models of colitis. METHODS: Silver-coated glass beads were prepared using a magnetron sputtering method and a standard magnetron sputtering gun equipped with pure silver target. Colitis was induced by the ic administration of TNBS into colon (to mimic Crohn's disease) and addition of DSS to drinking water (to imitate ulcerative colitis). Evaluation of inflammation was performed based on macroscopic and microscopic scoring, quantification of the myeloperoxidase activity and colonic microflora analysis. RESULTS: Silver-coated glass beads administered ic alleviated intestinal inflammation in mouse models of colitis, induced by TNBS and DSS. This alleviation of colitis resulted principally from changes in the gut microflora. The anti-inflammatory action of the new formulation was associated predominantly with the presence of the silver nanolayer on the beads, and to a lesser extent the size of glass polymer units. CONCLUSIONS: The application of the newly developed formulation employing silver-coated glass beads has the potential to be translated to clinical conditions for the efficient treatment of IBD.

Synthesis and evaluation of anti-inflammatory properties of silver nanoparticle suspensions in experimental colitis in mice.

The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of newly developed silver nanoparticle aqueous suspensions NanoAg1 and NanoAg2 in the mouse models mimicking ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. NanoAg1 and NanoAg2 were synthesized in aqueous medium with the involvement of tannic acid. To elucidate their anti-inflammatory activity, semi-chronic mouse models of inflammation induced by dextrane sulfate sodium addition to drinking water and intracolonic (i.c.) administration of 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid were used. NanoAg1 and NanoAg2 (500 mg/dm3, 100 µl/animal, i.c., once daily) significantly ameliorated colitis in dextrane sulfate sodium- and 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid-induced mouse models of colonic inflammation, as indicated by reduced macroscopic, ulcer and microscopic scores. The anti-inflammatory effect was dependent on the shape and diameter of silver nanoparticles, as indicated by weaker effect of NanoAg1 than NanoAg2. In addition, administration of NanoAg2, but not NanoAg1, modulated colonic microbiota, as indicated by reduced number of Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringens, and increased number of Lactobacillus sp. Summarizing, NanoAg1 and NanoAg2 after administered i.c. effectively alleviate colitis in experimental models of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease in mice. Therefore, NanoAg1 and NanoAg2 administered i.c. have the potential to become valuable agents for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases.

Microbial contamination level of air in animal waste utilization plants.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this research was evaluation of microbial contamination of air within and in the vicinity of animal waste disposal plants. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Air samples were analyzed to determine total bacterial and fungal counts as well as microbial species composition. Measurements of climate conditions (temperature, humidity, air motion) and total dust concentration were also performed. RESULTS: Total numbers of bacteria and fungi surpassed the threshold limit values for production halls. The most abundant bacteria detected were those consisting of physiological microflora of animal dermis and mucosa. Fungal species composition proved to be most differentiated in the air beyond the plant area. Aspergillus versicolor, a pathogenic and allergenic filamentous fungus, was isolated only inside the rendering plant processing hall. CONCLUSIONS: The measurement results showed a low sanitary-hygienic state of air in the plant processing halls and substantial air pollution in its immediate vicinity.

Nanosilver Biocidal Properties and Their Application in Disinfection of Hatchers in Poultry Processing Plants.

The aim of this study was to use aqueous suspensions of silver nanoparticles with a wide spectrum of particle sizes, variable morphology, high stability, and appropriate physicochemical properties to examine their bactericidal and fungicidal properties against microorganisms present in poultry processing plants. At the same time, the particles were tested for preventing the production of odorogenous pollutants during incubation and thereby reducing the emission of harmful gases from such types of facilities. The results show that the use of nanosilver preparations in order to disinfect eggs and hatchers reduced microbiological contamination. The bactericidal and fungicidal efficacy of the applied preparation was comparable to UV radiation and its effectiveness increasing during the incubation. Good results were achieved in terms of the level of organic gaseous contaminants, which decreased by 86% after the application of the nanosilver preparation.

The use of oak chips and coconut fiber as biofilter media to remove vocs in rendering process.

The study evaluated the effectiveness of air biofiltration in rendering plants. The biofilter material comprised compost soil (40%) and peat (40%) mixed up with coconut fiber (medium A) and oak bark (medium B). During biofiltration average VOCs reduction reached 88.4% for medium A and 89.7% for medium B. A positive relationship of aldehyde reduction from material humidity (r = 0.502; α<0.05) was also noted. Other biomaterial parameters did not affect the treatment efficiency.

The concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in pig farm air.

The aim of the study was to assess the level of air pollution by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in a pig fattening house and in its vicinity. Air samples for chromatographic analysis were taken in the fattening house and in the vicinity of the farm. The air quality study shows that the level of organic gaseous pollutants was twice as high in the fattening house as in the atmospheric air. Almost a half of the organic gaseous pollutants determined in the fattening house air are listed among the harmful chemical factors in the work environment. Comparison of the results of the atmospheric air samples taken from the vicinity of the farm with the valid standards also shows very high levels of air pollution in the vicinity of the farm. A mean concentration of the sum of mercaptans, phenol, xylene, 2-methyl-1-propanol, and toluene exceeded their basic values determined in the atmospheric air stated for the calendar year [18].

Efficacy of a novel biofilter in hatchery sanitation: I. Removal of airborne bacteria, dust and endotoxin.

A novel biofilter containing organic, bentonite and halloysite media was applied for elimination of microbial pollutants from the air of an industrial hatchery. The concentrations of total mesophilic bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, thermophilic actinomycetes, dust and bacterial endotoxin were determined in the air of hatchery during 2 months before installation of the biofilter, and during 6 months after installation of the biofilter, at the inlet and outlet ducts from each medium. Before installation of the biofilter, the concentrations of total mesophilic bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, thermophilic actinomycetes, dust and endotoxin in the air were within the ranges of 0.97-131.2x10(3) cfu/m3, 0.0-34.4x10(3) cfu/m3, 0.0-0.02x10(3) cfu/m3, 0.37-4.53 mg/m3, and 50.9-520,450.4 ng/m3, respectively. Enterococcus faecalis and Gram-negative bacteria (Acinetobacter spp., Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, and other species) prevailed among bacterial species recovered from the air of the hatchery. A total of 56 species or genera of bacteria were identified in the air samples taken in the examined hatchery; of these, 11, 11 and 6 species or genera respectively were reported as having allergenic, immunotoxic and/or infectious properties The concentrations of total mesophilic bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, Enterococcus faecalis and endotoxin found at the inlet duct of the biofilter after its installation were significantly smaller compared to those recorded before its installation (p<0.05). The concentrations of Gram-negative bacteria, Enterococcus faecalis and dust found at the outlet ducts of biofilter after its installation were significantly smaller compared to those recorded at the inlet duct of the biofilter (p<0.01). The concentrations of total meso-philic bacteria were also smaller at the outlet ducts of the biofilter compared to that at the inlet duct; however, the difference was not significant because of the massive growth of Streptomyces species in the biofilter's media which contaminated the outcoming air. In conclusion, the applied biofilter proved to be effective in the elimination of potentially pathogenic bacteria, dust and endotoxin from the air of the hatchery. The efficacy of the biofilter could be improved by the inhibition of the Streptomyces growth in the media of the biofilter.

Efficacy of a novel biofilter in hatchery sanitation: II. Removal of odorogenous pollutants.

The present research assessed the treatment efficiency of odorogenous pollutants in air from a hatchery hall vented on organic and organic-mineral beds of an enclosed-container biofilter. In this study, the following media were used: organic medium containing compost and peat (OM); organic-mineral medium containing bentonite, compost and peat (BM); organic-mineral medium containing halloysite, compost and peat (HM). The concentration of odorogenous gaseous pollutants (sulfur compounds and amines) in the hatching room air and in the air after biotreatment were determined by gas chromatography. In the hatchery hall among the typical odorogenous pollutants, there were determined 2 amines: 2-butanamine and 2-pentanamine, hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, carbon disulfide, sulfides and mercaptans. Ethyl mercaptan showed the highest levels as its mean concentration in the hatchery hall air exceeded 60 microg/m3 and in single samples even 800 microg/m3. A mean concentration of 2-butanamine and sulfur dioxide in the examined air also appeared to be relatively high--21.405 microg/m3 and 15.279 microg/m3, respectively. In each filter material, the air treatment process ran in a different mode. As the comparison reveals, the mean reduction of odorogenous contaminants recorded in the hall and subjected to biotreatment was satisfying as it surpassed 60% for most established pollutants. These high removal values were confirmed statistically only for single compounds. However, a low removal level was reported for hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide. No reduction was recorded in the bentonite supplemented medium (BM) for sulfur dioxide and methyl mercaptan. In the organic medium (OM) no concentration fall was noted for dipropyl sulfide either. In all the media investigated, the highest removal rate (100%), not confirmed statistically, was observed for carbon disulfide. Very good results were obtained in the medium with a bentonite additive (BM) for both identified amines, whose mean elimination rate exceeded 60% (p

Health effects of exposure to organic dust in workers of a modern hatchery.

The aim of the presented study was to determine the health status of workers occupationally exposed to moderate amounts of organic dust, employed in a modern hatchery with an efficient ventilation system. A group of 32 hatchery workers was examined. As a reference group, 50 urban dwellers not exposed to any kind of organic dust were examined. All people were interviewed for the presence of work-related symptoms and subjected to physical and spirometric examinations. Blood sera were examined for the presence of precipitins against 13 antigens associated with organic dust, and for the presence of total and chicken-specific No significant differences were found between the spirometric values in the group of hatchery workers and the reference group. Positive precipitin reactions were noted mostly with the antigens of Gram-negative bacteria associated with organic dust. The frequencies of positive reactions to antigens of Escherichia coli and Acinetobacter baumannii in hatchery workers were significantly greater compared to the reference group (p<0.05). Precipitin reactions to Gram-positive non-branching bacteria, actinomycetes, fungi and birdactions to antigens of Escherichia coli and Acinetobacter baumannii in hatchery workers were significantly greater compared to the reference group (p<0.05). Precipitin reactions to Gram-positive non-branching bacteria, actinomycetes, fungi and bird protein, were rare or absent. The mean concentration of total IgE in sera of hatchery workers was nearly 3 times greater compared to the reference group, and the difference proved to be statistically significant (p<0.05). No specific IgE antibodies against chicken feathers were detected in the blood of hatchery workers and referents. In conclusion, the examined hatchery workers showed a moderate frequency of work-related symptoms, no decline in lung function and low reactivity to most microbial and bird protein allergens. These results suggest that the effects of exposure to organic dust in workers of modern hatcheries with an efficient ventilation system are less compared to the workers of poultry farms, such as broiler or egg laying houses.