Bacteriological Samples Research Articles

Oculo Orbital Complications of Sinusitis

The ocular-orbital complications of sinusitis constitute a diagnostic and therapeutic urgency that requires a correct multidisciplinary assumption. Objectives: The description of clinical and therapeutic data of the orbital complications of acute sinusitis. Methods: Our work is based on a retrospective study of 86 cases of ocular-orbital complications of sinusitis hospitalized at the ENTdepartment of Hassan II Hospital in Fes (Morocco), between the years of 2006 and 2014. Results: It is about 56 men and 30 women. The average age was 24 years, with the extremes of 3 years and 65 years. The average time of consultation was 13 dates. The achievement was frontal-ethmoido in 26 cases, and it is about a pan sinusitis in 24 cases. About 13% and 7% of cases were classified respectively in the stage III and the stage IV of chandler. The surgery was done for 24 cases. Bacteriological sample was performed among 24 patients and allowed to isolate a streptococcus (3.5%), and a staphylococcus (5.8%), and a poly microbial flora for 15.1% of patients. A death in sepsis panel was noted for a patient who presented a thrombosis of cavernous sinus. And we have noted a persistent left exophthalmia without the diminution of visual acuity for another patient. Conclusion: The orbital complications of sinusitis require a multi-disciplinary medical approach associated to ear specialist, ophthalmologist, and neuro-radiology. A precocious diagnosis, an appropriate anti-biotic therapy, and sometimes an associated surgical treatment, can significantly diminish the mortality and the morbidity related to this pathology.

Mediation analysis to estimate direct and indirect milk losses associated with bacterial load in bovine subclinical mammary infections

Milk losses associated with mastitis can be attributed to either effects of pathogens per se (i.e. direct losses) or to effects of the immune response triggered by the presence of mammary pathogens (i.e. indirect losses). Test-day milk somatic cell counts (SCC) and number of bacterial colony forming units (CFU) found in milk samples are putative measures of the level of immune response and of the bacterial load, respectively. Mediation models, in which one independent variable affects a second variable which, in turn, affects a third one, are conceivable models to estimate direct and indirect losses. Here, we evaluated the feasibility of a mediation model in which test-day SCC and milk were regressed toward bacterial CFU measured at three selected sampling dates, 1 week apart. We applied this method on cows free of clinical signs and with records on up to 3 test-days before and after the date of the first bacteriological samples. Most bacteriological cultures were negative (52.38%), others contained either staphylococci (23.08%), streptococci (9.16%), mixed bacteria (8.79%) or were contaminated (6.59%). Only losses mediated by an increase in SCC were significantly different from null. In cows with three consecutive bacteriological positive results, we estimated a decreased milk yield of 0.28 kg per day for each unit increase in log2-transformed CFU that elicited one unit increase in log2-transformed SCC. In cows with one or two bacteriological positive results, indirect milk loss was not significantly different from null although test-day milk decreased by 0.74 kg per day for each unit increase of log2-transformed SCC. These results highlight the importance of milk losses that are mediated by an increase in SCC during mammary infection and the feasibility of decomposing total milk loss into its direct and indirect components.

Epidemiological survey of brucellosis in sheep and goats in selected pastoral and agro-pastoral lowlands of Ethiopia.

An epidemiological survey was conducted in pastoral regions of Ethiopia to investigate the distribution of brucellosis in sheep and goats. Between November 2004 and December 2007, a total of 6,201 serum samples were collected from 67 randomly selected peasant associations, 25 districts and eight pastoral zones of Ethiopia. The Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT) and complement fixation test were used in series. Samples for bacteriology were collected from three export abattoirs, where 285 goats were randomly selected and tested by RBPTthree days before slaughter. Tissue samples were collected from 14 strongly positive goats and cultured in dextrose agar and Brucella agar base. To confirm and subtype the isolates, staining, biochemical tests and polymerase chain reaction were used. The overall standardised seroprevalence of brucellosis was 1.9%, ranging from 0.07% in Jijiga zone to 3.3% in Borena zone. There was statistically significant variation among the studied regions, zones, districts and peasant associations (p < 0.05). Male goats and sheep were twice as likely to test positive as females (relative risk [RRJ: 2.04; 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.7-3.4; x2 = 21.05, p < 0.05). Adults (older than 1.5 years) were three times more likely to test positive than younger animals (RR: 2.76; 95% CI: 1.14-6.73; chi2 = 5.18, p < 0.05). Goats were around four times more likely to be infected than sheep (RR: 3.8; 95% CI: 2.4-6.1; chi2 = 36.99, p < 0.05). Brucella melitensis was isolated from 2 of the 14 samples analysed. The widespread distribution of brucellosis in goats and sheep in these areas justifies the use of control measures to minimise the economic losses and public health hazards.

Efficiency of hydrogen peroxide in improving disinfection of ICU rooms.

IntroductionThe primary objective of this study was to determine the efficiency of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) techniques in disinfection of ICU rooms contaminated with multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO) after patient discharge. Secondary objectives included comparison of the efficiency of a vaporizator (HPV, Bioquell®) and an aerosolizer using H2O2, and peracetic acid (aHPP, Anios®) in MDRO environmental disinfection, and assessment of toxicity of these techniques.MethodsThis prospective cross-over study was conducted in five medical and surgical ICUs located in one University hospital, during a 12-week period. Routine terminal cleaning was followed by H2O2 disinfection. A total of 24 environmental bacteriological samplings were collected per room, from eight frequently touched surfaces, at three time-points: after patient discharge (T0), after terminal cleaning (T1) and after H2O2 disinfection (T2).ResultsIn total 182 rooms were studied, including 89 (49%) disinfected with aHPP and 93 (51%) with HPV. At T0, 15/182 (8%) rooms were contaminated with at least 1 MDRO (extended spectrum β–lactamase-producing Gram-negative bacilli 50%, imipenem resistant Acinetobacter baumannii 29%, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus 17%, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa resistant to ceftazidime or imipenem 4%). Routine terminal cleaning reduced environmental bacterial load (P <0.001) without efficiency on MDRO (15/182 (8%) rooms at T0 versus 11/182 (6%) at T1; P = 0.371). H2O2 technologies were efficient for environmental MDRO decontamination (6% of rooms contaminated with MDRO at T1 versus 0.5% at T2, P = 0.004). Patient characteristics were similar in aHPP and HPV groups. No significant difference was found between aHPP and HPV regarding the rate of rooms contaminated with MDRO at T2 (P = 0.313). 42% of room occupants were MDRO carriers. The highest rate of rooms contaminated with MDRO was found in rooms where patients stayed for a longer period of time, and where a patient with MDRO was hospitalized. The residual concentration of H2O2 appears to be higher using aHPP, compared with HPV.ConclusionsH2O2 treatment is efficient in reducing MDRO contaminated rooms in the ICU. No significant difference was found between aHPP and HPV regarding their disinfection efficiency.

Malakoplakie de la glande sous-mandibulaire chez un patient transplanté rénal

Malakoplakia (MP) is a rare granulomatous disease, usually occurring in immunocompromised patients, linked to Escherichia coli infection. The lesions are usually located in the genitourinary tract, but there is a great variability in the topography and the clinical presentation. A 70-year-old diabetic kidney transplant patient under immunosuppressive treatment presented with a voluminous submandibular chronic lesion, involving the skin, associated with a burgeoning lesion of the oral mucosa. Histological examination of biopsies concluded to MP and bacteriological samples were positive for E. coli. Antibiotic treatment allowed for the regression of the lesion before surgical removal. Histological examination of resected material confirmed the diagnosis of invasive MP of the submandibular gland. The diagnosis of MP relies on histological examination, showing the presence of von Hansemann's cells and Michaelis- Gutmann bodies. The treatment is based on active antibiotics targeted against intracellular bacteria, possibly associated with surgery. We report the first case of MP involving the submandibular gland.

Infectious complications in patients with crush syndrome following the Wenchuan earthquake

ObjectiveTo analyze the results of clinical and bacteriological examinations in patients with crush syndrome who suffered infectious complications after an earthquake in Sichuan China MethodsA total of 313 bacteriological samples among 147 patients with crush syndrome were collected. Infectious complications results of microbiological examinations potential risk factors of infection and mortality were analyzed statistically ResultsIn the obtained database, 112 out of the 147 (75.7%) patients had infectious complications, in which, wound infection, pulmonary infection, and sepsis were most common. The time under the rubble and the time from injury to treatment were related to the occurrence of wound infection (P=0.013, odds ratio 2.25; P=0.017, odds ratio 2.31). Sepsis and wound infection were more common in patients who underwent fasciotomy or amputation than in those who did not (P=0.001). ConclusionQuick rescue and injury treatment can decrease the infection risk in crush syndrome patients. It is better to obtain microorganic proofs before applying antibiotics, and bacteriological and drug sensitivity data should be taken into account, especially considering that most of these infections are hospital-acquired and drug resistance. Emphasizing the accuracy and efficiency of wound management in emergency situations, cautiously assessing the indications for fasciotomy to avoid open wounds from unnecessary osteofascial compartment decompression incisions may decrease the incidence of infection and ameliorate the prognosis.

Infections néonatales bactériennes précoces : évaluation des pratiques professionnelles dans 14 maternités d’Île-de-France en 2013

Early-onset neonatal infection remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in neonates. Both universal vaginal screening for group-B streptococcus (GBS) and intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis have decreased the incidence of early-onset GBS disease. Almost 12 years after the implementation of the French recommendations, we assessed the practices around screening, diagnosis, and treatment of early-onset neonatal infection in the Île-de-France region. We conducted a prospective, multicenter, observational study in 14 volunteer maternity wards from 18 to 31 March 2013. All live newborn infants delivered at 35 gestational weeks or more were eligible. Maternal, obstetrical, and neonatal characteristics were collected, as well as the management of suspected early-onset neonatal infections. A total of 1194 mothers and 1217 neonates were included. Among the latter, 54% had bacteriological samplings at birth, with at least a gastric aspirate. Bacteriological samples were collected at birth in 85% of cases based on major or minor anamnestic infection criteria defined by the French National Authority for Health in 2002. In addition, 26% of neonates had at least one blood sample taken. Antibiotic treatment was administered in 4% of the infants with cefotaxime administered in two thirds of cases. An update of the French guidelines for the management of early-onset neonatal infections is required in order to improve targeting of newborn infants suspected of having an infection and to optimize the antibiotics administered. Moreover, the role of bacteriological sampling at birth needs to be clarified.

Usefulness of pneumococcal antigen urinary testing in the intensive care unit?

ObjectivesThe use of pneumococcal antigen urinary tests is substantially increasing and is associated with a significant cost. The relevant use of this test in the intensive care unit (ICU) should be better defined. Our aim was to define the role of this test in relation to other microbiological tests. We described a series of patients admitted to the ICU for an invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD). Patients and methodsWe conducted a retrospective and descriptive study of the microbiological tests used to diagnose IPD in patients admitted to the ICU of the University Hospital in Bordeaux. Our aim was to measure the sensitivity of these bacteriological tests and of the BinaxNOW®S. pneumoniae test. ResultsBetween 2009 and 2013, 148 patients were admitted for an IPD. A lower respiratory tract infection was diagnosed in 96.6% of them (143 patients). The overall ICU case fatality rate was 17.6%. The sensitivity of the pneumococcal antigen urinary test, sputum bacteriological examination, and blood cultures was respectively 83%, 37.6%, and 29.7%. S. pneumoniae was isolated from at least one bacteriological sample in 48.6% of patients, but in 51.4%, the diagnosis was only based on the results of the pneumococcal antigen urinary test. ConclusionWe suggest performing a pneumococcal antigen urinary test when an IPD is suspected, only if the bacteriological tests are still negative after 48hours. This strategy would result in a substantial cost saving. Patients would not face any additional risks as the result of the pneumococcal antigen urinary test does not have any impact on the initially prescribed antibiotic therapy.

Infection Control in Retreatment Cases: In Vivo Antibacterial Effects of 2 Instrumentation Systems

IntroductionThis in vivo study compared the antibacterial effects of 2 instrumentation systems in root canal–treated teeth with apical periodontitis. MethodsForty-eight teeth with a single root and a single canal showing post-treatment apical periodontitis were selected for this study. For retreatment, teeth were randomly divided into 2 groups according to the instrumentation system used: Self-Adjusting File (SAF; ReDent-Nova, Ra'anana, Israel) and Twisted File Adaptive (TFA; SybronEndo, Orange, CA). In both groups, 2.5% sodium hypochlorite was the irrigant. Bacteriological samples were taken before (S1) and after chemomechanical preparation (S2). In the TFA group, passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI) was performed after instrumentation, and samples were also taken after this supplementary step (S2b). DNA was extracted from the clinical samples and subjected to quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction to evaluate the levels of total bacteria, streptococci, and Enterococcus faecalis. Statistical analyses from quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction data were performed within groups using the Wilcoxon matched pairs test and between groups using the Mann-Whitney U test and the Fisher exact test with the significance level set at P < .05. ResultsBacteria were detected in S1 samples from 43 teeth, which were then included in the antibacterial experiment. Both SAF and TFA instrumentation protocols showed a highly significant intracanal bacterial reduction (P < .001). Intergroup quantitative comparisons disclosed no significant differences between TFA with or without PUI and SAF (P > .05). PUI did not result in significant improvement in disinfection (P > .05). ConclusionsBoth instrumentation systems/treatment protocols were highly effective in significantly reducing the intracanal bacterial counts. No significant difference was observed between the 2 systems in disinfecting the canals of teeth with post-treatment apical periodontitis.

Odontogenic Maxillofacial Infections: A Ten-Year Retrospective Analysis.

To analyze treatment modalities and results in patients with severe odontogenic maxillofacial infections during a 10-y period. Medical records of 1,077 patients hospitalized because of severe odontogenic maxillofacial infections during 2003-2012 were reviewed. The sample consisted of the records that matched inclusion criteria. For each patient the following data were collected: Age, gender, presence of systemic diseases, length of hospital stay, causal tooth, location of inflammation, treatment, results of bacteriologic sampling, and anti-bacterial susceptibility. Male to female ratio was 1.4:1. Two or more anatomic spaces were involved in 42.9% of cases, 37.3% of which involved the floor of the mouth. Penicillin in combination with gentamicin or metronidazole was prescribed in 69% of cases. Sixty-two different micro-organism species were identified with predominance of Streptococcus haemolyticus (42.9%). The microbial analysis showed the highest susceptibility of predominant micro-organisms to penicillin was 76.9% and the highest resistance was to metronidazole (27.9%). The frequency of odontogenic maxillofacial infection remained almost unchanged during a 10-y period. Single-space infections were more common (57.1%) than infections involving two or more spaces. Susceptibility to penicillin remains relatively high; therefore, penicillin can remain part of the armamentarium for treatment of odontogenic maxillofacial infections.

Photodynamic antibacterial enhanced effect of methylene blue-gold nanoparticles conjugate on Staphylococcal aureus isolated from impetigo lesions in vitro study

Staphylococcal aureus is the most common organism which has been encountered in impetigo infection. Gold nanoparticles can be used as a tool to deliver antimicrobials or to enhance photodynamic destruction of bacteria. To evaluate the photodynamic effect of methylene blue gold nanoparticles (MB-gold nanoparticles conjugate) on S. aureus which were isolated from impetigo lesions. Twenty children were diagnosed clinically as impetigo, and aged from 3 to 5 years of both sexes were recruited in the study. Two bacteriological samples were collected from each patient, identified and cultured. Samples of S. aureus of a concentration of 10(-1)ml were divided into four groups. S. aureus was treated by MB-gold nanoparticles conjugate, gold nanoparticles, MB, and the fourth group served as a control group. Diode laser (660 nm) was used for photoactivation. The bacterial growth inhibition was determined by two methods: the percentage of reduction of viable bacteria count and the optical density (O.D) of bacterial growth. The highest significant inhibitory effect on S. aureus was obtained with MB-gold nanoparticles conjugate when irradiated by diode laser 660 nm (P < 0.0001). The percentage of viable bacteria was 3%. The photoactivated gold nanoparticles showed a significant inhibitory effect on bacterial growth (P < 0.05). A non-significant inhibitory effect was elicited in other groups. The photoactivated MB-gold nanoparticles conjugate showed the maximum inhibitory effect on S. aureus activity. The gold nanoparticles proved efficacy as a drug delivery system. It enhanced the photodynamic antibacterial effect of methylene blue.

Découverte concomitante d’un cancer bronchique et d’une tuberculose chez un consommateur de cannabis

The coexistence of lung cancer and active tuberculosis is relatively rare. We report a case of concomitant discovery of lung cancer and tuberculosis in the context of addiction to tobacco and cannabis. A 50-year-old man, smoking tobacco and cannabis since the age of 18, was hospitalized for hemoptysis. Physical examination revealed cachexia, hyperthermia and decreased breath sounds on auscultation of the left lung field. The chest X-ray objectified atelectasis of the left upper lobe. The CT scan revealed a left upper lobe atelectasis and a cavity surrounded opacities taking a tree in bud appearance located at the apex of the left lower lobe. Endoscopy showed an obstruction by a bud located at the upper left lobe. Histology of bronchial biopsy revealed squamous cell carcinoma. Direct examination of bacteriological samples found BAAR and culture confirmed tuberculosis. The contamination could occur via a close relative, smoking cannabis and being treated for tuberculosis. After a 6-month treatment for tuberculosis, the patient underwent a course of chemotherapy, but refused further treatment. Death occurred 3months later. This observation relates the concomitant discovery of lung cancer and tuberculosis. It also highlights the possible role of cannabis addiction in the transmission of tuberculosis and the occurrence of lung cancer in combination with tobacco.

Resistance to Co-Amoxiclav (Augmentin) in Community-Acquired and Nosocomial Pleural Infections

Objective: To describe the ecology in pleural infections, where nosocomial and community-acquired infections may have different ecology. Methods: retrospective single center study. Any subject admitted in intensive care unit with a diagnosis of complicated pleural effusion (presence of macroscopic pus, or sero-fibrinous pleural effusion with pH 1000 or pleural glucose <0, 4 g/L, and signs of infection or positive bacteriological sampling) were included. Results: From 2006 to 2012, 57 patients were included. Four strains of “Multi-resistant” bacteria were reported in 3 patients with community-acquired pleural infection. As a whole 3 out of 57 (5%) patients had microorganisms (not including candida and mycobacteria) resistant to co-amoxiclav. It was not different between nosocomial and community-acquired pleural infections. Conclusion: Our study found resistance to co-amoxiclav in 14% and “multi-drug resistance” in 8% of the patients with community-acquired pleural infection.

0399: Mechanical circulatory support and infection: a single center experience

With the shortage of grafts, mechanical circulatory support has emerged as an alternative to heart transplantation. But one of the main disadvantages is the percutaneous source of energy that exposes to the risk of infection. We studied driveline infections occurred in a single-center prospective cohort of patients with long-term intracorporeal and continuous-flow left assist device type HeartMate II, between January 2008 and January 2014. Among the 34 devices implanted, we identified 9 cases of infection of the power cable (26.5%). The diagnosis was defined by the combination of a positive bacteriological sample with local inflammatory signs, ranging from skin redness to frank pus. The germs found included: 5 aureus staphylococci, 3 white staphylococci, 3 gram-negative bacilli including a pseudomonas aeruginosa, and a citrobacter. The median time to onset of infection was 15 months, ranging from 3 weeks to 2.5 years after implantation. Associated factors were: surgical re-opening, prolonged ICU stay, acute renal failure, the existence of a concomitant infection, malnutrition, duration of assistance and dressing changes at home. The treatment was based on a broad-spectrum antibiotics, secondarily adapted to the antibiogram and long lasting. Among these patients, two were transplanted, including one in the context of a Type 2 Super Emergency, two others died of a non-infectious cause, one patient is now cured and four are still carrying a chronic related-device infection. The management of end-stage heart failure has improved thanks to our growing experience in the field of long-term assistance, but the driveline infection is a major complication. It greatly affects the quality of life of the patients and transplantation may be the only prospect of recovery.

Infections in traumatic wounds sutured at a Norwegian Accident and Emergency Department.

Different countries have different wound treatment traditions. We have studied the incidence and different factors related to infections in wound injuries sutured at a Norwegian A&E department. In this prospective study, clinical data were collected on 102 patients with traumatic wound injuries treated with sutures at Bergen Accident and Emergency Department between 30 February 2011 and 30 June 2011. Any wound infections in 97 of these patients at the time of suture removal were assessed and classified according to severity on a scale of grade 0 to grade 4. There were no serious infections, but mild clinical wound infections occurred in 15% of patients: 11% grade 1 and 4% grade 2 infections. Patients less than 65 years old had often cut themselves with knives (n = 33, 37%), and on their hands (n = 60, 67%), Men were most frequently injured at work (n = 38, 54%) and women most often at home (n = 18, 56%). No statistically significant correlation was found between the incidence of wound infections and the length of the wound, the time elapsed before suturing, the wound's location on the body, contamination or underlying chronic diseases. Two of the three self-inflictors in our study had clinical wound infections. Half of the bacteriological samples from ten of 15 wounds with clinical infection had plentiful growth of Staphylococcus aureus. One patient received oral antibiotic treatment for wound infection, and two had local antibiotic treatment. Mild clinical infections were found in almost one of six wounds sutured at a Norwegian A&E department. More studies are necessary to provide basic data to enable targeted improvements in wound treatment in the primary healthcare service.

Syndrome de défaillance respiratoire aiguë sévère au cours d’un syndrome thoracique aigu chez une enfant drépanocytaire de 8 ans : bénéfice potentiel de l’association précoce échange transfusionnel et décubitus ventral

We report the case of an 8-year-old sickle cell anemia child admitted for acute respiratory failure complicating acute chest syndrome. Because of threatening respiratory failure, tracheal intubation was performed immediately after ICU admission. The patient met the criteria for ARDS with a PaO2/FiO2 ratio of 94mmHg. An exchange transfusion was performed immediately after admission. HbS fraction failed from 69 % to 30 %. Fluid resuscitation with crystalloids and continuous norepinephrine infusion was needed because of arterial hypotension. Due to persistent severe hypoxemia with PaO2/FiO2 ratio below 100, the patient was placed in prone positioning 16hours after admission, for a total duration of 14hours. A second 12-hour session of prone positioning was performed 41h after admission and PaO2/FiO2 ratio reached 300mmHg after. Treatment also included transfusion of two red-cell pack on day 1 and 2 after admission in order to maintain hemoglobin level above 8g/dL, and a daily folic acid supplementation. The control of hyperthermia was achieved by a systematic parenteral administration of paracetamol. Cefotaxime and erythromycine were continued until day 7 despite the negative results of all bacteriological samples. The outcome was favorable from day 3 and the patient met the criteria for extubation on day 5. A first attempt of extubation was performed on day 5, but re-intubation was required because of laryngeal edema. Steroids were given for 48h and the patient was successfully extubated on day 7. She was discharged from the ICU on day 8, and from the hospital on day 12. We discuss the various treatments available for the management of acute chest syndrome and their actual relevance in acute respiratory distress syndrome in the absence of strong evidence-based guidelines in pediatric ARDS.

English

INTRODUCTION: Hospital infections are important because of increased risk of mortality and morbidity and their economic burden countries especially like India, most commonly seen in intensive care units (ICUs). We aimed to document the characteristics of patients at an ICU of Northern India, obtain bacteriologic samples, and determine the distribution of the isolated microorganisms. MATERIAL/METHODS: The study was conducted in the ICU of an anesthesiology and Surgery department. The characteristics of 200 patients treated there for a period of over two years were documented. The distribution of bacteriologic samples and isolated microorganisms and susceptibilities were investigated. The emerging hospital infections were determined using surveillance methods that were based on clinical and laboratory data. RESULTS: Intoxication was the most common cause of hospitalization, followed by respiratory insufficiency due to severe pneumonia and/or chronic obstructive respiratory disease, then trauma, postoperative conditions, and cerebrovascular problems. Cultures were most commonly obtained from patients with respiratory insufficiency and trauma. According to clinical specimens, the most commonly isolated microorganisms were E. coli (60.86%) in urine, S. aureus (53.84%) in blood, P. aeruginosa (26.22%) in tracheal aspirates, and Acinetobacter spp. (50.00%) in wounds. Considering all specimens, MRSA (24.00%) was the most common microorganism. CONCLUSIONS: Hospital infections causes serious problem in an ICU setting. Surveillance studies comprise the basis for treatment of ICU infections.

Evaluation of acute-phase proteins and inflammatory mediators changes in native chickens experimentally infected with Salmonella typhimurium

Salmonella typhimurium infection is a significant problem of the poultry industry and public health. More knowledge about various aspects of interaction between salmonella and avian immune system is useful for designing salmonella control programs. The objective of this study was to evaluate the non-specific immune system parameters in native chickens following S. enterica enterica typhimurium infection. For this purpose, 90 one-day-old Iranian native chickens were divided randomly into three groups and reared for 31 days. Experimental infection was performed by oral (108 colony forming units [CFU] of the S. serovar typhimurium) and intracardial (103 CFU of the S. serovar typhimurium) inoculation. Five birds from each group were killed by cervical dislocation at 3, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days post infection (dpi) for postmortem gross lesions. Spleen and caeca were used for bacteriological study and blood samples were taken for measuring other hematological parameters. Systemic infection occurred after 3 dpi, and the spleen of infected chicks cleared after 21 dpi in the oral infected group and after 14 dpi in the intracardial injected group. The infection stimulates synthesis of acute phase proteins (APPs), gangliosides and inflammatory mediators. Gross lesion, bacterial detection, App, gangliosides and inflammatory mediator changes, peaked at 7 dpi. Among the evaluated parameters, total sialic acid (TSA), lipid bound sialic acid (LBSA) and protein bound sialic acid (PBSA) showed the greatest changes, so these factors could be considered as the most sensitive parameters.

Bacterial colonization of the ovarian bursa in dogs with clinically suspected pyometra and in controls

Septic peritonitis occurs relatively commonly in dogs. Secondary septic peritonitis is usually associated with perforation of intestines or infected viscera, such as the uterus in pyometra cases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the bacterial flora in the ovarian bursae of intact bitches as a potential source of contamination. One hundred forty dogs, clinically suspected of pyometra, were prospectively enrolled. The control group consisted of 26 dogs that underwent elective ovariohysterectomies and 18 dogs with mammary gland tumors that were neutered at the time of mastectomy. Bacteriology samples were taken aseptically at the time of surgery from the bursae and the uterus in all dogs. Twenty-two dogs that were clinically suspected of pyometra had sterile uterine content (“mucometra” cases); the remaining 118 had positive uterine cultures (“pyometra” cases) and septic peritoneal fluid was present in 10% of these cases. Of the 118 pyometra cases, 9 had unilateral and 15 had bilateral bacterial colonization of their ovarian bursae. However, the bacteria from the ovarian bursa were similar to those recovered from the uterine pus in only half of the cases. Furthermore, positive bursae were also seen in one mucometra dog (unilateral) and in four control dogs (two unilateral and two bilateral). The data illustrate that the canine ovarian bursa can harbor bacteria. The biological importance of these isolations remains unclear.

Group Testing, the Pooled Hypergeometric Distribution, and Estimating the Number of Defectives in Small Populations

The testing of combined bacteriological samples – or “group testing” – was introduced to reduce the cost of identifying defective individuals in populations containing small proportions of defectives. It may also be applied to plants, animals, or food samples to estimate proportions infected, or to accept or reject populations. Given the proportion defective in the population, the number of positive combined samples is approximately binomial when the population is large: we find the exact distribution when groups include the same number of samples. We derive some properties of this distribution, and consider maximum-likelihood and Bayesian estimation of the number defective.