The adjusted Global Anti-Phospholipid Syndrome Score as predictor of damage accrual measured by Damage Index for APS: a longitudinal study.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the association between the average 'adjusted' Global APS Score (aGAPSS) over time, as a surrogate of disease activity, and change in Damage Index for APS (DIAPS) during follow-up in patients with thrombotic and non-thrombotic APS. METHODS: Two hundred APS patients (138 primary, 62 associated to other autoimmune diseases) were included. DIAPS change was calculated as the difference between basal DIAPS and DIAPS at the end of follow-up. The aGAPSS was calculated for each patient at baseline and on a yearly basis for up to 6 years (minimum 3 years). The average score per patient was computed and considered the reference aGAPSS. Linear regression models were designed to analyse the association between mean aGAPSS and DIAPS change. Moreover, factors associated to high (increase of DIAPS ≥1 during follow-up) vs low (increase of DIAPS <1 during follow-up) damage accrual were assessed. RESULTS: A higher mean aGAPSS value was associated to a DIAPS increase during follow-up (b = 0.04, P < 0.001) in the multivariate analysis. Higher mean aGAPSS values were found in patients with a DIAPS increase ≥1 during follow-up compared with patients with an increase of <1 point [9.22 (95% CI 7.58, 10.86) vs 6.72 (95% CI 6.0, 7.43), P = 0.003]. aGAPSS increased the odds a DIAPS increment of ≥1 point during follow-up [OR = 1.12 (95% CI 1.04, 1.21), P = 0.003]. CONCLUSIONS: Our data support the utility of longitudinal assessing of the aGAPSS score in predicting damage accrual, measured by DIAPS, in APS.

Predictive value of the adjusted Global Anti-Phospholipid Syndrome Score on clinical recurrence in APS patients: a longitudinal study.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of the average adjusted global APS score (aGAPSS) over time on recurrence of clinical manifestations in APS patients through a retrospective longitudinal study. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included 200 patients with APS. The aGAPSS was calculated for each patient at baseline and on a yearly basis for either up to 6 years (minimum 3 years) or just before the clinical event in patients who experienced clinical recurrence. The mean score per patient was computed. In patients under vitamin K antagonists (VKA) the percentage of time spent within the therapeutic range (TTR) was calculated. Cox regression analysis was performed to determine the cut-off value of the aGAPSS with the strongest association with clinical recurrence. RESULTS: Higher average aGAPSS values were found in patients who experienced clinical recurrence in comparison to patients who did not [8.81 (95% CI 7.53, 10.08) vs 6.38 (95% CI 5.64, 7.12), P = 0.001], patients with thrombotic recurrence compared with patients with obstetric recurrence [9.48 (95% CI 8.14, 10.82) vs 4.25 (95% CI 0.85, 7.65), P = 0.006] and patients with arterial thrombosis compared with patients with venous thrombosis [10.66 (S.D. 5.48) vs 6.63 (S.D. 4.42), P = 0.01]. aGAPSS values >13 points were associated with the highest risk of recurrence in multivariate analysis [HR = 3.25 (95% CI 1.93, 5.45), P < 0.0001]. TTR was not statistically different between patients who had thrombosis recurrence and patients who had not. CONCLUSIONS: Our data support the role of periodic (annual) monitoring of the aGAPSS score in predicting clinical recurrence in patients with APS.

Evaluation of gonadal macroscopic and microscopic morphometry reveals precocious puberty in Bísaro pig.

Bísaro pig (BP), like many other local breeds reared in extensive non-industrial systems, faces many constraints to comply with the EU welfare regulation, particularly regarding the restrictions to surgical castration. In order to adapt an immunocastration protocol to overtake this issue, a puberty timeline is needed. Using gonadal morphometry data from 91 young male BP, this study intended to characterize testicular development, describing the prominent cell types and structures, to ultimately assess the age at puberty in male BP through a mixed prediction model. As expected, the relations between several macro and microscopic parameters and their relation with age were as described within the literature. Post-pubertal animals have larger and heavier gonads, lower Sertoli cell density/tubule, higher Leydig cell density and larger seminiferous tubules. Meiosis was firstly seen in 44-day-old animals, elongated spermatids in 70-day-old animals. Complete spermatogenesis was firstly identified in a 90-day-old animal. Spermatozoa were present in the epididymis of 23 animals, aged from 70 to 240 days old, and in the vas deferens of 14 animals (105 to 240 days old). The prediction model inferred that male Bísaro pigs reach puberty between 14 and 17 weeks (3 and 4 months old) and become sexually capable from 15 to 19 weeks (3.5 and 4.4 months old). These parameters confirm the sexual precocity of this breed.

Influence of different housing systems on prevalence of keel bone lesions in laying hens.

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of three housing systems (furnished cages - FC, barns - B, and free-range - FR) on the prevalence and severity of keel bone protrusion and deformations. These health and welfare indicators were measured at the slaughterhouse, using a 4-point scale (0 = absence, 1 = slight, 2 = moderate and 3 = severe). Keel bone deformation was also categorized in relation to the presence of compression over the ventral surface, deviation from a 2D straight plane and deviation from the transverse (C-shaped) or median sagittal (S-shaped) plane. The housing system had a significant effect on prevalence of keel bone deformation (χ2 = 45.465, df = 6, P < 0.001). In FR systems 60.4% of hens presented keel bone deformation, followed by 54.2% in FC and 53.5% in B; however, higher scores for keel bone deformations were more frequent in B systems. Although keel bone protrusion was observed in all laying hen systems, the majority of hens only presented a slight degree (score 1) of protrusion. A positive correlation was obtained for keel bone protrusion and emaciation. The results could be used to initiate detailed investigations into problematic issues that occur during the laying period to improve the health and welfare conditions on farms.

Evaluation of the Effects of Food Safety Training on the Microbiological Load Present in Equipment, Surfaces, Utensils, and Food Manipulator's Hands in Restaurants.

Training food handlers is essential to ensure food safety. However, the efficacy of training programs relying solely on theoretical information remains uncertain and often fails to induce significant changes in inadequate food practices. Training programs in good hygiene and food safety practices that integrate theoretical and practical approaches have emerged as a vital tool, enabling food handlers to apply their knowledge during work hours and clarify doubts. This study aimed to assess the impact of food safety training based on theoretical and on-the-job training on the microbiological counts of equipment, surfaces, utensils, and food handler (FH) hands. The hygiene and food safety conditions of four restaurants were analyzed through facility checklists, employee questionnaires, and microbiological analyses conducted before and after training. Eight sample collection moments were conducted at each restaurant before and after training. The pre-training results indicate that 15% and 26% of analyses for Enterobacteriaceae and total mesophilic aerobic bacteria (TMB), respectively, did not comply with hygiene safety limits. Additionally, 31% and 64% of Enterobacteriaceae and TMB values, respectively, exceeded safety limits on food handler hands. Positive cases of coagulase-positive Staphylococcus (CoPS) resulted from unprotected wounds on some FH hands. The presence of Listeria monocytogenes in drains was also identified as a concern. Following training, significant differences in results were observed. In many cases, there was a reduction of over 80% in microbial load for Enterobacteriaceae and TMB collected from equipment, surfaces, utensils, and food handler hands. The presence of L. monocytogenes in drains was also eliminated after food safety training. In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of effective training in improving food safety practices.

Cardiac Tamponade and Primary Biliary Cholangitis: An Unusual Presentation and a Rare Association of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a disease known for its multiple manifestations, including numerous cardiac complications. While pericardial effusions are common in patients with SLE, cardiac tamponade is rare, and it is even rarer as an initial and isolated clinical manifestation of SLE. We describe a case of a young adult woman who presented with a four-week history of shortness of breath, orthopnea, and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea. Chest radiography revealed a significant increase in the cardiothoracic index, and transthoracic echocardiography confirmed a life-threatening cardiac tamponade that necessitated emergency pericardiocentesis and high-dose corticosteroids. Following a thorough investigation, we excluded viral infection, malignancy, tuberculosis, and other autoimmune diseases, and the patient was diagnosed with SLE based on the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) criteria. In this case report, we also present an uncommon association between SLE and primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). While both are autoimmune diseases, the coexistence of these two conditions in the same patient is rare. The report highlights the need for ongoing research to better understand the optimal management strategies for patients with coexisting autoimmune conditions.

Osteomyelitis in Pig Carcasses at a Portuguese Slaughterhouse: Association with Tail-Biting and Teeth Resection.

Osteomyelitis is the leading cause of total carcass condemnation in finishing pigs in Portugal, causing significant economic losses in swine production. The present study sought to determine a possible link between osteomyelitis in pig carcasses, pre-slaughter factors, and concomitant post-mortem inspection findings. For this purpose, meat inspection data were collected from 100,489 finishing pigs slaughtered in a northern Portuguese abattoir. Information regarding total carcass condemnation, slaughter season, origin, sex, tail-biting lesions, and husbandry invasive procedures (tail docking and teeth resection) was collected. The main cause of total carcass condemnation was osteomyelitis (61.03%). A total of 36.16% of osteomyelitis cases were present in the anterior region and 52.20% in the posterior region. In the anterior region, 94.78% of osteomyelitis cases were in the mandibular bone. Pigs with clipped teeth and carcasses with pleurisies were associated with a higher occurrence of osteomyelitis (p = 0.00262 and p < 0.0001, respectively). Second- and third-grade tail-biting lesions were also linked to a higher occurrence of osteomyelitis (p = 0.00128 and p < 0.0001, respectively). Slaughter inspection and monitoring procedures should be revised to better assess welfare factors and correlate management practices with the occurrence of osteomyelitis in pig carcasses.

The Kidney Transplant Lottery: A Highly Sensitized Patient, Without Mismatches and Vein Thrombosis of the Graft; A Case Report.

A kidney transplant is the best option for patients with end-stage renal disease. The waiting list period can be long, especially for highly sensitized patients. We describe a 60-year-old woman who received a second transplant and was highly sensitized to vascular access exhaustion, anuric, and performing peritoneal dialysis. At 27 days post-transplant, the patient developed thrombosis of the allograft vein, oliguria, and elevated serum creatinine. Fibrinolysis was attempted, but the patient remained oliguric and with acute graft dysfunction. She had a suction thrombectomy using the Penumbra System, allowing the removal of all thrombi and repermeabilization of the vein graft, resolving the acute graft dysfunction.

Listeria monocytogenes from Food Products and Food Associated Environments: Antimicrobial Resistance, Genetic Clustering and Biofilm Insights.

Listeria monocytogenes, a foodborne pathogen, exhibits high adaptability to adverse environmental conditions and is common in the food industry, especially in ready-to-eat foods. L. monocytogenes strains pose food safety challenges due to their ability to form biofilms, increased resistance to disinfectants, and long-term persistence in the environment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence and genetic diversity of L. monocytogenes in food and related environmental products collected from 2014 to 2022 and assess antibiotic susceptibility and biofilm formation abilities. L. monocytogenes was identified in 13 out of the 227 (6%) of samples, 7 from food products (meat preparation, cheeses, and raw milk) and 6 from food-processing environments (slaughterhouse-floor and catering establishments). All isolates exhibited high biofilm-forming capacity and antibiotic susceptibility testing showed resistance to several classes of antibiotics, especially trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and erythromycin. Genotyping and core-genome clustering identified eight sequence types and a cluster of three very closely related ST3 isolates (all from food), suggesting a common contamination source. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) analysis revealed resistance genes conferring resistance to fosfomycin (fosX), lincosamides (lin), fluoroquinolones (norB), and tetracycline (tetM). In addition, the qacJ gene was also detected, conferring resistance to disinfecting agents and antiseptics. Virulence gene profiling revealed the presence of 92 associated genes associated with pathogenicity, adherence, and persistence. These findings underscore the presence of L. monocytogenes strains in food products and food-associated environments, demonstrating a high virulence of these strains associated with resistance genes to antibiotics, but also to disinfectants and antiseptics. Moreover, they emphasize the need for continuous surveillance, effective risk assessment, and rigorous control measures to minimize the public health risks associated to severe infections, particularly listeriosis outbreaks. A better understanding of the complex dynamics of pathogens in food products and their associated environments can help improve overall food safety and develop more effective strategies to prevent severe health consequences and economic losses.

Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Edible Films and Coatings in the Shelf-Life Improvement of Chicken Meat.

Meat deterioration during processing, distribution, and display can compromise the quality and safety of products, causing several undesirable changes and decreasing products' shelf-life, which has a negative impact on the industry and consumers. In recent years, studies have been carried out using decontamination techniques and new packaging methodologies to overcome deterioration problems, increase sustainability, and reduce waste. Edible films and coatings obtained from biopolymers such as polysaccharides, proteins, and lipids, combined with active compounds, can be an alternative approach. This article focused on recent studies that used alternative biodegradable polymeric matrices in conjunction with natural compounds with antioxidant/antimicrobial activity on chicken meat. Its impact on physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory characteristics was evident, as well as the effect on its shelf-life. In general, different combinations of active edible films or coatings had a positive effect on the chicken meat. Different studies reported that the main results were a decrease in microbial growth and pathogen survival, a slowdown in lipid oxidation evolution, and an improvement in sensory quality and shelf-life (an increase from 4 to 12 days).

Effect of Sodium Nitrite, Nisin and Lactic Acid on the Prevalence and Antibiotic Resistance Patterns of Listeria monocytogenes Naturally Present in Poultry.

The impact of treating minced chicken meat with sodium nitrite (SN, 100 ppm), nisin (Ni, 10 ppm) and lactic acid (LA, 3000 ppm) on the levels of some microbial groups indicating hygiene quality were investigated. Specifically, aerobic plate counts and culture-based counts of psychrotrophic microorganisms and enterobacteria were obtained. Additionally, the prevalence of Listeria monocytogenes and the resistance of 245 isolates from this bacterium to 15 antibiotics were documented. L. monocytogenes was isolated using the ISO 11290-1:2017 method and confirmed with polymerase chain reaction using the lmo1030 gene. Antibiotic resistance was established using the disc diffusion technique (EUCAST and CLSI criteria). Twenty-four hours after treatment, the microbial load (log10 cfu/g) was reduced (p < 0.05) relative to controls in those samples treated with LA, with counts of 5.51 ± 1.05 (LA-treated samples) vs. 7.53 ± 1.02 (control) for APC, 5.59 ± 1.14 (LA) vs. 7.13 ± 1.07 (control) for psychrotrophic microorganisms and 2.33 ± 0.51 (LA) vs. 4.23 ± 0.88 (control) for enterobacteria. L. monocytogenes was detected in 70% (control samples), 60% (samples receiving SN), 65% (Ni) and 50% (LA) (p > 0.05) of samples. All strains showed resistance to multiple antimicrobials (between 3 and 12). In all, 225 isolates (91.8%) showed a multi-drug resistant (MDR) phenotype, and one isolate (0.4%) showed an extensively drug-resistant (XDR) phenotype. The mean number of resistances per strain was lower (p < 0.01) in the control samples, at 5.77 ± 1.22, than in those receiving treatment, at 6.39 ± 1.51. It is suggested that the use of food additives might increase the prevalence of resistance to antibiotics in L. monocytogenes, although additional studies would be necessary to verify this finding by analyzing a higher number of samples and different foodstuffs and by increasing the number of antimicrobial compounds and concentrations to be tested.

Risk Assessment of Nine Coccidiostats in Commercial and Home-Raised Eggs.

The poultry industry, in order to prevent and control coccidiosis caused by Eimeria spp., widely uses coccidiostats as feed additives. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of nine coccidiostats in 62 egg samples by UHPLC-MS/MS. Overall, detection frequency and average concentration were 90.3% (56/62) and 106.3 µg kg-1, respectively. Only diclazuril and nicarbazin were detected. Diclazuril, only found in home-raised eggs, showed an overall detection frequency of 8.1% (5/62), with average and maximum concentrations of 0.46 ± 1.90 µg kg-1 and 13.6 µg kg-1, respectively. Nicarbazin presented an overall higher frequency, 88.7% (55/62), with levels up to 744.8 µg kg-1. Additionally, four samples (6.5%) presented both nicarbazin and diclazuril. Home-raised egg samples (n = 28) showed a detection frequency of 89.3%, with nicarbazin found in more samples (85.7% vs. 17.9%) and at higher levels (266.3 ± 169.4 µg kg-1 vs. 0.91 ± 2.78 µg kg-1) when compared to diclazuril. In supermarket samples (n = 34), only nicarbazin was detected in 31 samples (91.1%), with an average of 167.6 ± 62.2 µg kg-1. Considering the average contamination scenario, consumers' health should not be adversely affected by egg consumption. In every scenario considered, children were the most vulnerable population group.

Characterization of Sodium Alginate-Based Films Blended with Olive Leaf and Laurel Leaf Extracts Obtained by Ultrasound-Assisted Technology.

Due to environmental concerns, there is an increasing need to reduce the use of synthetic and non-renewable packaging materials to reduce waste and increase sustainability. This study aimed to characterise sodium alginate edible-based films (SA) incorporated with laurel leaf extract (LLE) and olive leaf extract (OLE) obtained by ultrasound-assisted extraction. Determination of total phenolic content, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity was performed for the extracts and films. Also, thickness, tensile strength, elongation at break, modulus of elasticity, opacity and colour, moisture content, water vapour permeability (WVP), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra, and surface morphology by scanning electron microscope (SEM) analyses were performed for the films. LLE yielded better results in terms of phenolic content (195 mg GAE/g), antioxidant (2.1 TE/g extract) and antimicrobial activity (MIC at 1% for Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus, and 1.8% for Enterococcus faecalis). For the films, the simultaneous incorporation of LLE 1% (w/v) and OLE 1% (w/v) resulted in a significant reduction of approximately 2 log CFU/g against S. aureus. The addition of LLE and OLE extracts also proved to improve barrier properties (lower WVP for SA films with LLE 1% + OLE 1%, 3.49 × 10-11 g m-1 s-1 Pa-1) and promoted changes in resistance and flexibility. The results demonstrated that active alginate-based films can be valuable for enhancing food preservation.

Effect of Immunocastration on Culled Sows-A Preliminary Study on Reproductive Tract, Carcass Traits, and Meat Quality.

The Bísaro pig is a Portuguese autochthonous breed greatly appreciated for its meat quality and is mainly reared outdoors. Immunocastration could be a solution to avoid undesirable pregnancies and boar taint in cull sows. The present study tested three immunocastration protocols (with Improvac®) according to their reproductive cycle. The first inoculation was performed two weeks after farrowing (IM1, n = 5), at the beginning of estrus (IM2, n = 5), and one week after the end of estrus (IM3, n = 5), followed by a second administration four weeks apart. A control group (C, n = 5) was also included in the same housing conditions. The sample collection included the reproductive tract for morphometric evaluation, neck fat for the quantification of boar taint compounds, and a portion of the Longissimus thoracis et lumborum for meat quality trait assessment. The reproductive tracts from intact sows (C) were significantly heavier compared to the immunocastrated groups (p < 0.05) (1.403 kg C to 0.508 kg IM1, 0.590 kg IM2, and 0.599 kg IM3), suggesting the regression of the reproductive tract to nonstimulated conditions due to immunization against GnRH. The IM1 group exhibited significantly smaller reproductive tract measurements compared to group C for most of the evaluated segments (p < 0.05). No marked differences were observed in the meat quality traits. Therefore, immunocastration can be used in culling sows to avoid ovarian activity, and it is not detrimental to pork quality traits.

Seasonal Variations on Testicular Morphology, Boar Taint, and Meat Quality Traits in Traditional Outdoor Pig Farming.

Traditional outdoor pig farming is renowned for its emphasis on animal welfare and the production of highly valued, quality meat. While seasonality is known to impact certain animals, particularly those raised outdoors, there is a lack of research on Bísaro boars, a native Portuguese breed. This research study was conducted on a total of 20 male entire Bísaro pigs, reared in outdoor pens from 4 to 13 months old, and subsequently slaughtered. The animals were divided into two groups: one slaughtered in winter (Wi, n = 9), and the other in summer (Su, n = 11). The objective was to evaluate testicular morphometry, boar taint compounds, and meat quality traits, including sensory analysis and fatty acid profile. Testicles from the Su group exhibited reduced volume, indicating diminished functionality during that season. While no significant differences were observed in the boar taint compound analysis, panelists could discern a more intense aroma and flavor of boar taint in the Su meat. Other meat quality traits showed no significant variations, but the fatty acid profile displayed higher values in the Wi group. This study reveals that Bísaro boars experience reproductive seasonality, leading to variations in boar taint compounds across the seasons. This information is crucial for farm planning.

Estimating sequence diversity of prion protein gene (PRNP) in Portuguese populations of two cervid species: red deer and fallow deer.

Among the transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs), chronic wasting disease (CWD) in cervids is now a rising concern in wildlife within Europe, after the detection of the first case in Norway in 2016, in a wild reindeer and until June 2022 a total of 34 cases were described in Norway, Sweden and Finland. The definite diagnosis is post-mortem, performed in target areas of the brain and lymph nodes. Samples are first screened using a rapid test and, if positive, confirmed by immunohistochemistry and Western immunoblotting. The study of the genetics of the prion protein gene, PRNP, has been proved to be a valuable tool for determining the relative susceptibility to TSEs. In the present study, the exon 3 of PRNP gene of 143 samples from red deer (Cervus elaphus) and fallow deer (Dama dama) of Portugal was analysed. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were found in red deer - codon A136A, codon T98A, codon Q226E - and no sequence variation was detected in fallow deer. The low genetic diversity found in our samples is compatible with previous studies in Europe. The comparison with results from North America suggests that the free-ranging deer from our study may present susceptibility to CWD, although lack of experimental data and the necessity of continuous survey are necessary to evaluate these populations.

Systemic Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) Infection With Renal Involvement: A Rare Complication of BCG Immunotherapy.

Intravesical instillation of bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) is the adjuvant therapy for superficial urothelial carcinoma of the bladder with the lowest recurrence rates and is well tolerated with minor and self-limiting adverse effects. Serious complications, such as systemic BCG infection, are uncommon as the diagnosis is difficult and, in the majority of cases, Mycobacterium bovis cannot be isolated. We describe a case of a man who presented with prolonged fever associated with polyuria, dysuria, anorexia, and significant weight loss, refractory to several courses of appropriate antibiotic therapy. After an exhaustive investigation, the underlying diagnosis of systemic BCG infection with renal involvement was considered. Antituberculosis treatment resulted in a marked clinical and radiological recovery, supporting this diagnosis.

Quantification of Total and Viable Cells and Determination of Serogroups and Antibiotic Resistance Patterns of Listeria monocytogenes in Chicken Meat from the North-Western Iberian Peninsula.

Twenty samples of minced chicken meat procured from butcher's shops in León (Spain; 10 samples) and Vila Real (Portugal; 10 samples) were analyzed. Microbial concentrations (log10 cfu/g) of 7.53 ± 1.02 (viable aerobic microbiota), 7.13 ± 1.07 (psychrotrophic microorganisms), and 4.23 ± 0.88 (enterobacteria) were found. The detection method described in the UNE-EN ISO 11290-1 standard (based on isolation from the chromogenic medium OCLA) with confirmation by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR; lmo1030) (OCLA−PCR), revealed Listeria monocytogenes in 14 samples (70.0% of the total), nine of Spanish origin and five of Portuguese (p > 0.05). The levels of viable and inactivated L. monocytogenes in the samples were determined with a q-PCR using propidium monoazide (PMAxx) as a viability marker. Seven samples tested positive both with the OCLA−PCR and with the q-PCR, with estimated concentrations of viable cells varying between 2.15 log10 cfu/g (detection limit) and 2.94 log10 cfu/g. Three samples tested negative both with the OCLA−PCR and with the q-PCR. Seven samples were positive with the OCLA−PCR, but negative with the q-PCR, and three samples tested negative with the OCLA−PCR and positive with the q-PCR. The percentage of viable cells relative to the total ranged between 2.4% and 86.0%. Seventy isolates of L. monocytogenes (five from each positive sample) were classified in PCR serogroups with a multiplex PCR assay. L. monocytogenes isolates belonged to serogroups IIa (52 isolates; 74.3%), IIc (7; 10.0%), IVa (2; 2.9%), and IVb (9; 12.9%). The susceptibility of the 70 isolates to 15 antibiotics of clinical interest was tested. The strains presented resistance to between three and eight antibiotics. The average number of resistances was greater (p < 0.001) among strains isolated from Spanish samples (6.20 ± 1.08), than in those from Portugal (5.00 ± 1.08). In both groups of strains, a prevalence of resistance higher than 95% was observed for oxacillin, cefoxitin, cefotaxime, and cefepime. The need to handle minced chicken meat correctly, taking care to cook it sufficiently and to avoid cross-contamination, so as to reduce the danger of listeriosis, is emphasized. A combination of culture-dependent and culture-independent methods offers complementary routes for the detection in food of the cells of L. monocytogenes in various different physiological states.

Coccidiostats and Poultry: A Comprehensive Review and Current Legislation.

Coccidiosis remains one of the major problems of the poultry industry. Caused by Eimeria species, Coccidiosis is a contagious parasitic disease affecting poultry with great economic significance. Currently, in order to prevent health problems caused by this disease, broiler farmers make extensive use of coccidiostats in poultry feed, maintaining animal health and, in some cases, enhancing feed conversion. The presence of unauthorized substances, residues of veterinary products and chemical contaminants in the food industry is of concern, since they may pose a risk to public health. As the use of coccidiostats has been increasing without any requirements for veterinary prescription, research and surveillance of coccidiostat residues in poultry meat is becoming imperative. This review presents an up-to-date comprehensive discussion of the state of the art regarding coccidiosis, the most used anticoccidials in poultry production, their mode of action, their prophylactic use, occurrence and the European Union (EU) applicable legislation.

Hygiene Indicators and Salmonellae on Surfaces of Swine Carcasses from Two Slaughterhouses in Northern Portugal.

ABSTRACT: The monitoring of carcass surface contamination along the slaughter line enables verification of slaughter operation hygiene and the use of good manufacturing practices. Pork meat is a common source of human nontyphoidal salmonellosis, one of the most frequently reported foodborne illnesses worldwide. This study was conducted to gather data on microbial loads before and after evisceration on the surfaces of swine carcasses in two slaughterhouses. The presence of Salmonella enterica was evaluated only after evisceration on carcass surfaces and in livers and floor drains (environmental samples) because pigs are common carriers of this pathogen. The contamination of carcass surfaces was evaluated by delimitation of surface area with sterilized templates (100 cm2), and surface samples were collected with gauze swabs. Total aerobic mesophilic bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae, and Escherichia coli were enumerated. Significant differences (P < 0.05) in counts of mesophilic bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae, and E. coli were found on the external carcass surfaces, with higher counts after evisceration. The neck and abdominal areas had higher levels of mesophilic bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae, and E. coli and a high prevalence of Salmonella. Salmonella was detected in only one of the studied slaughterhouses; 19 (7.3%) of 259 analyzed carcass samples were positive for Salmonella, and Salmonella was detected in two livers and two floor drains. A total of 52 Salmonella isolates (44 from carcasses, 5 from livers, and 3 from drains) were recovered. Three Salmonella serovars (Typhimurium 4,5:i- , Wernigerone, and Derby) were identified, and 53.8% of the 52 isolates were multidrug resistant. The results reveal the need for continuous improvement of slaughtering operations and implementation of good manufacturing practices to ensure the safety of pork produced in Portugal.