Coli Counts Research Articles

Effect of the use of probiotic Bacillus subtilis (QST 713) as a growth promoter in broilers: an alternative to bacitracin methylene disalicylate

The global poultry trend toward the more responsible use of antibiotics is becoming recurrent and has demanded the need to generate new natural alternatives. Probiotics have gained importance as an option to use as growth promoters. This study aimed to evaluate Bacillus subtillis QST713 as a substitute for an antibiotic growth promoter (BMD). A total of 150 male broilers were assigned to three dietary treatments: 1) control diet (CO), 2) control diet + 500 g/t of BMD (AGP), and 3) control diet + 100 g/t of B. subtilis QST713 (PB), respectively. Each treatment was monitored for 5 wk for the productive variables: body weight, accumulated feed consumption, food conversion, and European efficiency factor. At the end of each week, fresh fecal samples were cultured and quantified for E. coli, Enterococcus spp., and Lactobacillus spp. At the end of the trial, blood samples were analyzed for hemogram and intestinal samples (anterior portion) for histomorphometry. The data were statistically analyzed with an analysis of variance and subjected to a least significant difference test (Tukey). The zootechnical yields were similar in the AGP and PB groups (P ˃ 0.05); both superior to the control group. In the hematological profiles, no difference was observed between the experimental groups. E. coli and Enterococcus counts were significantly lower (P ˂ 0.05), and Lactobacillus counts were significantly (P ˂ 0.05) higher in the PB group, relative to CO and AGP groups. No differences (P ˃ 0.05) were found in bacterial counts between the CO and AGP groups. The intestinal mucosa and villi in the PB group were significantly (P ˂ 0.05) longer and with less deeper crypts than CO and AGP groups. We conclude that B. subtillis QST713, used at the suggested commercial dose (100 g/ton), is an effective growth-promoting alternative to BMD that modulates the microbiota and intestinal architecture, thus producing zootechnical yields consistent with BMD.

Zinc oxide coated regenerated spent FCC catalyst for water purification

Introduction: Zeolites are microporous aluminosilicates, commonly used as commercial adsorbents and catalysts. As an adsorbent, zeolite can adsorb gram-positive bacteria when compared with gram-negative bacteria (1,2). Ultrafine zinc oxide nanoparticles in colloidal medium is toxic to E. coli bacteria (3). ZnO-coated zeolite adsorbent can effectively remove of humic acid and E. coli from water when compared to zeolite adsorbent (4-5). The spent FCC (SFCC) catalyst is very harmful to the human health by being absorbed mainly into the respiratory tract and lungs due to its tiny particles of size 60-100 micrometer (1). Most of the spent FCC catalysts are currently disposed as landfills, which leads to the wastage of valuable metal resources and the environmental pollution. In this work the spent zeolite catalyst is regenerated and coated with zinc oxide and this zinc oxide coated regenerated spent FCC catalyst (ZOCRSC) is used to remove E. coli from water. Methods: In this work, decoking is done to burning off the deposited carbon by roasting in air at 550°C for 2 hours. Then SFCC catalyst is leached with HCl and oxalic acid. Activated SFCC catalyst, obtained as a leaching residue is separated. Zinc oxide is coated on the regenerated catalyst to develop zinc oxide coated zeolite adsorbents. Coating procedure follows activated catalyst modified by HNO3 and then Zn(NO3)2 solution. To characterize crystal structure of zeolite and ZOCRSC, XRD, SEM, and BET analysis were carried out. The water from the treatment plant after secondary treatment was used for the experiments and the E. coli content was estimated using plate counting technique. ZOCZ is added to the E-coli containing water and after proper mixing the suspension is allowed to settle. Sample is collected from treated water at different intervals for determining E. coli content. The treatment procedure was also done using the spent coated sample, acid activated sample and spent FCC catalyst and are used as a comparison with ZOCZ. Results & Discussions: The XRD pattern shows that the ZOCRSC exhibited similar characteristic diffraction peaks to that of the uncoated samples which indicates that the modification did not affect the mineralogy of the zeolite and in addition it also exhibited similar characteristic diffraction peaks to those of ZnO. Thus, the XRD pattern and the SEM images of ZnO coated spent catalyst and ZnO coated regenerated catalyst shows that coatings of ZnO on zeolites were done effectively. The surface area and pore volume of zinc oxide coated regenerated spent FCC catalyst is determined from BET analysis. The removal of E. coli from water was quantified by plate counting. The E. coli count of the untreated water sample is 560 cfu/ml and treated sample after 30 minutes is less than 1 cfu/ml. Water treated using spent FCC catalyst without any modification did not show any change in the E. coli count. The acid activated catalyst and spent FCC catalyst coated with ZnO reduce the E. coli content in the water to 11 cfu/ml and 6 cfu/ml respectively after 90 minutes. Conclusions: ZnO coated regenerated spent FCC catalyst is developed from waste spent catalysts is utilized for the removal of E. coli from water. The ZOCRSC removes E. coli effectively when compared with spent FCC catalyst coated with ZnO, acid activated catalyst, and spent FCC catalyst in a short period. The spent FCC catalyst coated with ZnO cannot be directly used for treating purpose as it contains various contaminant metals which should not be present in treated water. Keywords: Escherichia coli, Spent FCC catalyst, Zinc oxide, ZOCRSC

THE EFFECT OF BUTCHER SANITATION ON MICROBIOAL QUALITY OF MINCED BEEF MEAT WITH REFERENCES TO ESCHERICHIA COLI O157: H7

Objective: The aim of this study determination the effectiveness of meat processing and hygienic status of butchers on the microbial load of minced meat. Methods: the minced beef samples (140 fresh and frozen samples) were collected from different butchers sites and some shops in Alexandria. The samples were, analyzed for its microbial quality (APC, TCC and ECC of minced beef and the presence of E. coli O157:H7. Results: Regarding sanitation sites, 25% unsatisfactory samples recorded in good and bad sanitation sites according to their APC and TCC. However, there was a statistical difference when comparing according to their E. coli count (p=0.047). Neither wearing gloves nor lab coats affected statistically the quality of examined minced beef. None out from all examined beef samples showed E. coli O157: H7. Conclusion: The hygienic status of collection sites affected significantly by E. coli count. Wearing gloves and lab coats by butcher minimizes the bacterial contamination.

Performance and intestinal microflora response of broilers to a probiotic mixture supplementation

Abstract The study evaluated the effects of a Lactobacillus strains probiotic mix on performance, carcass traits, organs size, and intestinal microflora in broilers. A total of 200 one-day-old unsexed broilers were allotted into 2 groups with 5 replicates (20 broilers/replicate). During the feeding trial (35 d) the broilers were fed with a control (basal diet) or probiotic (basal diet plus 3% probiotic mix L. acidophilus and L. plantarum, 1:1 ratio). The probiotic supplementation did not significantly influence the performance, carcass traits and organs size of broilers at slaughter age. No effect of probiotic supplementation on visceral weight or length was observed, except a higher of jejunum (P=0.007) and ileum (P=0.013) weights, and a tendency to higher the caecum length (P=0.070). The probiotic mix had no significant effect on the intestinal pH, but it improved the microflora by decreasing the Enterobacteria and E. coli counts and increasing the Lactobacilli counts and Lactobacilli: E. coli ratio in the ileum and caecum (P<0.05). In conclusion, the probiotic mix (L. acidophilus and L. plantarum mix, 1:1 ratio) did not significantly affect the productive performance but had a positive effect on broilers’ gut microflora.

Influence of Dietary Supplementation of Kigelia pinnata and Plukenetia conophora Leaves on Cytokine Expression, Immunoglobulins, Blood Chemistry, Caecal Microbiota and Meat Quality in Broiler Chickens

This study examined the effect of dietary supplementation of Kigelia pinnata (KPL) and Plukenetia conophora (PCL) leaves in comparison with oxytetracycline (OXY) and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) on growth performance, selected blood biochemical parameters, caecal microbiota, splenic interleukins (IL), serum immunoglobulins (Ig), carcass traits, meat quality, and oxidative stability in broiler chickens. One day old Arbor Acres chicks (n=420) were randomly assigned to either basal diet only (BD); basal diet + 0.5 g/kg oxytetracycline + 0.12 g/kg BHA (OXYBHA); basal diet + 1 g/kg KPL (KPL-1); basal diet + 2 g/kg KPL (KPL-2); basal diet + 1 g/kg PCL (PCL-1); or basal diet + 2 g/kg PCL (PCL-2) for 42 d. Each dietary treatment had seven replicates with 10 chicks per replicate. Supplemented birds gained (P < 0.05) more weight and had a better feed conversion ratio compared with the BD birds. Hematological indices, IL-1β, and IL-6 did not differ among the treatments. BD birds had lower (P < 0.05) carcass weight and IL-10, and higher (P < 0.05) IgG, IgM, Salmonella spp., and E. coli counts than the supplemented birds. The KPL-2 birds had the least (P < 0.05) E. coli and Salmonella spp. counts and IgM among the supplemented birds. Lactobacillus spp. count was lower (P < 0.05) in OXYBHA birds compared with KPL and PCL birds. Carbonyl and malondialdehyde contents in the Sartorius muscle, and drip loss and carbonyl content in the Pectoralis muscle of the BD birds were higher (P < 0.05) than those of the supplemented birds. These results illustrate that the 2 g/kg KPL and 2 g/kg PCL could be used as an antioxidant and an antimicrobial in the diets of broiler chickens.

Use of brewer’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) in broiler feeds to replace corn gluten meal with or without probiotic additives

Abstract This study was intended to assess the effect of graded replacements of corn gluten meal with Brewer’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), with and without Bacillus megaterium supplementation, on performance, carcass characteristics, and the gut broilers microflora composition. A total of 720 mixed sex one-day-old broiler chicks (Ross 308) were randomly assigned to six dietary treatment groups (6 replicates each) in a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement, including 3 levels of Brewer’s yeast (BY; 0, 25, and 50%, to replace corn gluten meal; CGM) in the presence (+) or absence (−) of B. megaterium used as probiotic (Pro). The results showed that broilers fed diets containing BY up to 25% had comparable body weight (BWG), feed intake (FI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) to the birds fed only CGM, over the entire feeding period (days 1–35). Conversely, higher levels of BY (50% replacing CGM) registered the lowest BWG values (P &lt; 0.001) and impaired FCR (P &lt; 0.010), but without effects on FI. The BY diets did not significantly affect the main broiler’s carcass traits. The diets with Pro did not involve modifications on carcass and organs size, but a tendency to increase the gizzard weight (P = 0.094) and to decrease SIL (P = 0.076) was observed. Pro addition also, reduced the cecal pH (P = 0.040) and diminish the total coliforms (P &lt; 0.010), Clostridium spp. (P &lt; 0.0001), and E. coli (P &lt; 0.0001) count, whereas LAB, Bacillus spp., and Enterococcus spp. bacteria were increased (P = 0.022; P &lt; 0.0001, and P &lt; 0.0001, respectively).

Escherichia coli inactivation on tenderloin beef medallions processed by sous vide treatment

Sous vide is a heat treatment able to maintain and also improve the sensory characteristics of vacuum-packed foods. However, some temperatures used, do not reach the cooking limits recommended by regulatory agencies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the survival of Escherichia coli on beef tenderloin medallions cooked using sous vide method, at 54 °C for 24 h. E. coli pool (6–7 log10 CFU/g) was inoculated on beef medallions and bacterial counts were performed at different times (0–24 h) during the heat treatment. E. coli counts were modeled by the GInaFiT software, using Geeraerd tail linear model. Initial microbiota was analyzed and the survivors were identified by MALDI-TOF/MS. Results showed that the beef reached a core temperature of 54.5 ± 0.1 °C in 45 min and this temperature remained constant throughout the process. E. coli population was undetectable (≤5.9 log10 CFU/g) after 9 h and the D54oC-value was 1.17 h. Initial mesophilic bacteria were reduced approximately 3.3 log10 CFU/g after 24 h and MALDI-TOF/MS showed low diversity of survivors in the beef at the end of the process. Results demonstrated that the sous vide treatment significantly reduced the population of E. coli and mesophilic bacteria, after 9 h at 54 °C.

Investigation of a Novel Multicomponent Mycotoxin Detoxifying Agent in Amelioration of Mycotoxicosis Induced by Aflatoxin-B1 and Ochratoxin A in Broiler Chicks.

The present study was designed to determine the efficacy of a novel multicomponent mycotoxin detoxifying agent (MMDA) containing modified zeolite (Clinoptilolite), Bacillus subtilis, B. licheniformis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae cell walls and silymarin against the deleterious effects of Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and Ochratoxin A (OTA) in broiler chicks. A total of 160 one-day-old Ross 308® broiler chicks were randomly allocated in four treatment groups, with four replicates, according to the following experimental design for 42 days. Group A received a basal diet; Group B received a basal diet contaminated with AFB1 and OTA at 0.1 mg/kg and 1 mg/kg, respectively; Group C received a basal diet contaminated with AFB1 and OTA and MMDA at 1 g/kg feed, and Group D received a basal diet contaminated with AFB1 and OTA and MMDA at 3 g/kg feed. Results showed that ingested mycotoxins led to significant (p ≤ 0.05) reduction in body weight and feed conversion from 25 days of age, induced histopathological changes, increased the pH of the intestinal content, and altered the biochemical profile of birds with significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST) values (p ≤ 0.05). On the other hand, the supplementation of MMDA significantly (p ≤ 0.05) improved the feed conversion ratio (FCR) during the second part of the study, diminished biochemical alterations, reduced pH in jejunal and ileal content, and E. coli counts in the caeca of birds (p ≤ 0.05). It may be concluded that the dietary supplementation of the MMDA partially ameliorated the adverse effects of AFB1 and OTA in broilers and could be an efficient tool in a mycotoxin control program.

Heavy metal analysis of drinking water supply, wastewater management, and human health risk assessment across secondary schools in Badagry coastal community, Lagos State, Nigeria

ABSTRACT This cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate drinking water and wastewater management facilities, as well as the health risk associated with heavy metal contamination of available water sources among Badagry schools. According to Joint Monitoring Program classification, majority (60%) of the schools provided basic water service, 10% limited service, whereas 30% provided no service. Water quality parameters such as pH, Pb, Cr, Cd, and E. Coli count were above the permissible limits in both public and private schools. None of the schools had wastewater management facilities, thereby leading to ponding. Pb and Cr posed a carcinogenic risk to the consumers as they exceeded the permissible 10−5. Even though majority of the schools provided basic water service, the contamination of majority of the water sources and the absence of structured-drainage channels in all the schools was bothersome. Prompt intervention is required to safeguard and maintain the integrity of the students’ health.

DEVELOPMENT OF TURMERIC-FLAVORED PASTILLAS

Product development has been major activity in the food industry. The pressure for developing a new product became very strong on the needs of the growing markets for constant changing. Filipinos are known for their sweet tooth. They love to eat sweets not just in every occasion but even in a regular time of the day. Sugar is beneficial to the brain; to be exact, sweets are food for the brain but it should be consumed by the body properly because in can also harm us when taken too much. The researchers used “turmeric” as their main flavoring in the utilization of pastillas. The ingredients of Turmeric-Flavored Pastillas are: Powdered milk, Concentrated Sugar, Condensed milk, Powdered Turmeric, Native Lime. In making Turmeric-Flavored Pastillas, prepare all the tools and ingredients to be used in making the product. Secondary ingredient is “dayap” and the usual ingredients in pastillas making came after. The procedure in making the Turmeric-Flavored Pastillas were: first, mix all the dry ingredients in a mixing bowl, then make a well and pour the evaporated milk and mix well. Add the native lime extract to add flavor and aroma. Make any shape preferred. Lastly, roll it into the concentrated sugar and pack. The product was tested in terms of Aerobic plate count, Coliform count, Escherichia coli count, Yeast and Molds count and salmonella determination at BulSU (Bulacan State University) Analytical Testing Laboratory. The product sample has undergone the microbiological analysis specifically, Aerobic plate Count, Coliform Count, Yeast and Molds Count, Escherichia coli count and Salmonella determination that was conducted at the BulSU-DOST (Department of Science and Technology) Food Testing Laboratory, Bulacan State University, City of Malolos, Bulacan,Philippines. The researchers brought some sample of Turmeric Flavored Pastillas to DOST-BSU food testing laboratory for microbiological analysis. Yeast and Molds Count, Aerobic Plate Count, Coliform Count, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella that are within ate FDA (Food and Drug Authority) microbiological standards. The sample was negative for the presence of Salmonella. The sample has passed all the parameters of microbiological quality. Based on the evaluation of the one hundred (100) respondents on the Turmeric Flavored Pastillas, the appearance has the weighted mean of 4.56 which is very acceptable. The aroma has the weighted mean of 4.61 which is very acceptable, the flavor has the weighted men of 4.88 which is very acceptable, the taste has the weighted mean of 4.38 which is also very acceptable and the texture has the weighted mean of 4.89 which is very acceptable. The overall mean from the level of acceptability of all the respondents was 4.664 and concluded as very acceptable. Based on the results, conclusions and recommendation the future researchers are looking forward to develop new product using different flavors aside from turmeric. Microbial Analysis is a must for product development and proper hygiene and sanitation practices must be observed in order to pass the microbial analysis test. Subsequent microbiological analyses of samples may be conducted to monitor the microbiological quality of samples, preferably within 12 months’ period, to comply with the standards set by the Department of Health.

Groundwater source evaluation and quality checks, for drinking and irrigation uses in Eha-Amufu and environs, Eastern Nigeria

The research assesses the suitability of groundwater in Eha-Ndiagu and its Environs, astern Nigeria, for domestic and irrigation uses by analyzing the physicochemical, heavy metal, and bacteriological parameters in the area. The physicochemical analysis revealed that the groundwater is anthropologically contaminated by sewage and agricultural wastes.The forensic relevance and health implications of parameters with comparison to their respective recommended standards were elaborated. The parameter associations such as E coli, Chloride, Nitrate and total coliform counts were used to unravel sewage source of contamination while phosphate,nitrate and potassium were diagnostic of agricultural contamination Based on the conventional water quality index calculations, 60% of the water samples indicates poor water quality while 8% are within the good water range and 32% are within the very poor water range, and this finding was attributed to the presence of faecal and total coliform in the groundwater of the study area. MAR, PI, KR, SAR, and SSP were used to assess the groundwater suitability for irrigation use, and their respective spatial distribution maps were integrated and superimposed, for the production of an irrigation suitability map for the study area, delineating areas with poor, fair and good groundwater quality suitable for irrigation purposes. The map shows that about 95% of the groundwater samples are suitable for irrigation purposes while 5% are unsuitable.

Preliminary Microbiological Coastal Water Quality Determination along the Department of Atlántico (Colombia): Relationships with Beach Characteristics

Beach water quality is an important factor concerning public health and tourism linked to the “Sun, Sea and Sand” market and is usually assessed in international regulations by the quantification of Escherichia coli and enterococci counts. Despite Salmonella spp. detection not being included in international normative, the presence/absence of this bacteria is also an indicator of seawater quality. The objective of this study was to determine microbiological quality of beach water at 14 beaches along the Department of Atlántico (Colombia) and its relationship with beach characteristics as beach typology (i.e., urban, village, rural and remote areas), presence of beach facilities (e.g., bars, restaurants, etc.) and streams outflowing into the coastline. Sampling program aimed to analyse E. coli and Salmonella spp., by culture-based and real time PCR methods, respectively. Microbiological outcomes were compared with beach characteristics, and a cluster analysis was performed. E. coli and Salmonella spp. were detected in 70% and 20% of samples, respectively. Highest E. coli counts were observed at beaches classified as urban and at Sabanilla, a rural beach with presence of numerous beach restaurants/bars. Salmonella spp. presence was associated with streams that lack wastewater treatment systems. Cluster analysis clearly evidenced the relationship between E. coli and Salmonella spp. and beach characteristics, allowing to obtain indications to implement management programs. According to data obtained, monitoring programs have to be especially carried out in urban areas and at places with beach facilities. This could enhance microbiological water quality and consequently, beachgoers safety and touristic beach attractiveness to international visitors.

Influence of dietary supplementation of Crassocephalum crepidioides leaf on growth, immune status, caecal microbiota, and meat quality in broiler chickens.

The effect of dietary supplementation of Crassocephalum crepidioides leaf powder (CCLP) in comparison with oxytetracycline and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) on growth, caecal microbiota, immune status, blood chemistry, carcass traits, meat quality, and oxidative stability in broiler chickens was evaluated. Two hundred and eighty 1-day-old Arbor acre chicks were randomly assigned to a basal diet containing either no additive (control, CON), 400ppm oxytetracycline + 150ppm BHA (ANTIBIOX), 1000ppm CCLP (CCLP-1), or 2000ppm CCLP (CCLP-2) for 42days. Each dietary group had seven replicates with ten birds per replicate. Supplemented birds had higher (P < 0.05) feed efficiency, hemoglobin, and hematocrit compared with the CON birds. Diet did not affect feed intake, body weight gain, splenic interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, interleukin-10, and serum IgM. The CCLP-2 birds had lower (P < 0.05) serum total and LDL cholesterol than did birds fed other treatments. Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli counts and serum IgG were higher in the CON birds than in the supplemented birds. The ANTIBIOX birds had lower (P < 0.05) Lactobacillus spp. count, and higher (P < 0.05) E. coli count compared with the CCLP-supplemented birds. Carcass, muscle pH, and cook loss were not affected by diet. The CON breast meat had higher drip loss and lower redness than did the breast meat of the supplemented birds. Carbonyl content and TBARS value in the thigh and breast meat of the supplemented birds were lower (P < 0.05) than those of the CON birds. These results infer that CCLP exhibited antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that were comparable to those of BHA and oxytetracycline in the diet of broiler chickens.

Evaluation of the combined effects of different dose levels of Zinc oxide with probiotics complex supplementation on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, faecal microbiota, noxious gas emissions and faecal score of weaning pigs.

This study was conducted to assess the effects of different dose levels of zinc oxide (ZnO) combined with probiotics complex supplementation on the growth, performance, nutrient digestibility, faecal lactobacillusandEnterobacteriacounts, noxious gas emissions and faecal score of weaned piglets. A total of 180 crossbred weaning pigs ([Yorkshire×Landrace]×Duroc; 6.61±1.29kg [mean±SE]; 28days old) were used in a 42-day trial. All pigs were randomly allotted to 1 of 4 treatment diets based on initial BW and sex (9 replicate pens/treatment; 2 gilts and 3 barrows/pen). Dietary treatment groups were as follows: CON, basal diet +ZnO 3,000ppm; BZS, basal diet +ZnO 2,100ppm +0.1% SynerZymeF10; BZS1, basal diet +ZnO 1,200ppm +0.1% SynerZymeF10; BZS2, basal diet +ZnO 300ppm +0.1% SynerZymeF10. During the phase 3, decreasing the ZnO concentration led to a linear reduction in ADG (p=0.044), and the ADG was lower (p<0.05) in BZS2 compared with CON treatment during the whole experimental period. The effects of dietary ZnO with probiotics complex were not detected (p>0.05) on nutrient digestibility, Lactobacillus and E.coli counts, faecal gas emissions and faecal scores. In conclusion, the diet supplementation of ZnO (1,200ppm) with probiotics complex has been shown to have comparable efficacy to ZnO (3,000ppm) diet on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, faecal microbiota, noxious gas emissions and faecal score of weaning pigs.

Tarragon (Artemisia Dracunculus L.) Could Alleviate Negative Effects of Stocking Density in Laying Hens

ABSTRACT The study was conducted to determine the effects of stocking density (SD, 5 or 7 layers/cage) and tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus L.) diet supplementation at four levels (0, 1.2, 6 and 12 g/kg feed) on performance, certain egg characteristics, serum, liver, egg yolk and small intestine bacteria parameters in laying hens. The experiment was carried out over a period of 8 weeks, with 192 Lohman Brown commercial hybrids at 50-w-age. The results showed that an increased SD reduced feed intake (FI; p 0.05) parameters. The supplementation of tarragon to the diet reduced the FI and damaged egg ratio (p<0.01), and improved egg production and FCR (p<0.01). While an increased SD reduced serum total antioxidants (p<0.05), it elevated corticosterone (CORT) and total oxidant serum (TOS) (p<0.05). Tarragon was found to enhance total immunoglobulin (p<0.05), but to decreased the CORT and TOS of the serum (p<0.05). An increased SD raised the malondialdehyde (MDA) in the serum (p<0.001), liver (p<0.05) and yolk (p<0.001). Tarragon supplementation reduced MDA of the serum (p<0.05), liver (p<0.001) and yolk (p<0.001). E. coli and total Mesophilic Aerobic Bacteria counts in the small intestine were raised (p<0.001) with increased SD. Tarragon decreased (p<0.05) mesophilic aerobic bacteria. It was thus found that, tarragon supplementation can be considered generally effective in improving performance parameters, alleviating stress-induced negativities, reducing lipid peroxidation, regulating the immune system and controlling some intestinal microorganisms.

Experimental study on the effect of zeolite (clinoptilolite) on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and faecal microbiota of finishing pigs

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was conducted to determine the clinoptilolite in diets as a growth promoter on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and faecal microflora in finishing pigs. A total of 180 finishing pigs [(Landrace × Yorkshire) × Duroc; 50.20 ± 1.92 kg] were used in 84 days in experimental feeding trials. There were 12 replication pens in each treatment, with 5 pigs/pen (three barrows and two gilts). Dietary treatment groups were as follows: (1) basal diet (CON), (2) CON + 0.05% clinoptilolite (T1), (3) CON + 0.1% clinoptilolite (T2). On day 84, there was a linear increase in body weight (BW) (P < 0.05) of finishing pigs fed diets supplemented with clinoptilolite. During day 35–84 and overall experimental period, increasing the concentration of clinoptilolite linearly improved the average daily gain (ADG) (P < 0.05) and gain: feed ratio (G/F) (P < 0.05). The clinoptilolite treatments reduced Escherichia. coli (P < 0.05) counts compared with CON treatment. And, no significant effect was found in any treatments on nutrient digestibility (P > 0.05). In conclusion, the dietary supplementation with clinoptilolite has been shown to improve growth performance and gut health in finishing pigs.

Tahıl Bazlı Fermente Fonksiyonel Gıda Katkısı İlavesinin Bıldırcınların Büyüme, Sekal Mikroflora ve Duodenum Histolojisine Etkileri (Coturnix coturnix Japonica)

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of dietary cereal based fermented functional food (CBFFF) supplementation on growth performance, duodenum histomorphology, internal organ development and cecum microflora of quails. In this study, a total of 100 mixed sex birds at 21 age of days were used as animal material. The birds were divided into 2 dietary groups as control (C) and 5 g/kg CBFFF supplementation (F) with 5 replicates (5 male average 64.33±0.32g and 5 female average 66.42±0.38g for each replicate. The experiment lasted 21 days. Live weight gain (LWG), feed intake (FI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) determined weekly. At the end of the experiment, one female and one male bird were selected from each replicate (a total number of 20 quails) and their characteristics of cecum microbiota and duodenum histomorphology were determined. LWG, FI, FCR, inner organs, did not change among the groups. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and yeast count was tend to increase, Enterobactericaea was tend to decrease. E coli and Coliforms count in cecum decreased statistically. Villi length increased in F group than in the C group. To conclude, CBFFF decreased pathogenic bacteria in cecum and developed intestinal microflora and increased the digestion surface area in duodenum. Therefore, it can be said that 5 g/kg dietary CBFFF can use to improve cecum microflora and duodenum histomorphology in quails. But further studies should be conducted to determine probiotics effects of CBFFF on other animal species, doses or stress factors such as feed restriction, high fiber or low protein in diet etc.

High prevalence of multidrug resistant Escherichia coli isolated from fresh vegetables sold by selected formal and informal traders in the most densely populated Province of South Africa

Contaminated fresh produce has increasingly been implicated in foodborne disease outbreaks. As microbiological safety surveillance in South Africa is limited, a total of 545 vegetable samples (spinach, tomato, lettuce, cucumber, and green beans) were purchased from retailers, street traders, trolley vendors and farmers' markets. Escherichia coli, coliforms and Enterobacteriaceae were enumerated and the prevalence of Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes determined. E. coli isolates were characterized phenotypically (antibiotic resistance) and genotypically (diarrheagenic virulence genes). Coliforms, E. coli and Enterobacteriaceae counts were mostly not significantly different between formal and informal markets, with exceptions noted on occasion. When compared to international standards, 90% to 98% tomatoes, 70% to 94% spinach, 82% cucumbers, 93% lettuce, and 80% green bean samples, had satisfactory (≤ 100 CFU/g) E. coli counts. Of the 545 vegetable samples analyzed, 14.86% (n = 81) harbored E. coli, predominantly from leafy green vegetables. Virulence genes (lt, st, bfpA, eagg, eaeA, stx1, stx2, and ipaH) were not detected in the E. coli isolates (n = 67) characterized, however 40.30% were multidrug-resistant. Resistance to aminoglycosides (neomycin, 73.13%; gentamycin, < 10%), penicillins (ampicillin, 38.81%; amoxicillin, 41.79%; augmentin, < 10%), sulfonamides (cotrimoxazole, 22.39%), tetracycline (19.4%), chloramphenicol (11.94%), cephalosporins (cefepime, 34.33%), and carbapenemases (imipenem, < 10%) were observed. This study highlights the need for continued surveillance of multidrug resistant foodborne pathogens in fresh produce retailed formally and informally for potential consumer health risks. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The results indicate that the microbiological quality of different vegetables were similar per product type, regardless of being purchased from formal retailers or informal street traders, trolley vendors or farmers' markets. Although no pathogenic bacteria (diarrheagenic E. coli, Salmonella spp. or L. monocytogenes) were isolated, high levels of multidrug-resistance was observed in the generic E. coli isolates. These findings highlight the importance of microbiological quality surveillance of fresh produce in formal and informal markets, as these products can be a reservoir of multidrug resistant bacteria harboring antibiotic resistance and virulence genes, potentially impacting human health.

Potassium Ferrate (VI) as the Multifunctional Agent in the Treatment of Landfill Leachate.

Possible use of potassium ferrate (VI) (K2FeO4) for the treatment of landfill leachate (pH = 8.9, Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) 770 mg O2/L, Total Organic Carbon (TOC) 230 mg/L, Total Nitrogen (Total N) 120 mg/L, Total Phosphorus (Total P) 12 mg/L, Total Coli Count (TCC) 6.8 log CFU/mL (Colony-Forming Unit/mL), Most Probable Number (MPN) of fecal enterococci 4.0 log/100 mL, Total Proteolytic Count (TPC) 4.4 log CFU/mL) to remove COD was investigated. Central Composite Design (CCD) and Response Surface Methodology (RSM) were applied for modelling and optimizing the purification process. Conformity of experimental and predicted data (R2 = 0.8477, Radj2 = 0.7462) were verified using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Application of K2FeO4 using CCD/RSM allowed to decrease COD, TOC, Total N, Total P, TCC, MPN of fecal enterococci and TPC by 76.2%, 82.6%, 68.3%, 91.6%, 99.0%, 95.8% and 99.3%, respectively, by using K2FeO4 0.390 g/L, at pH = 2.3 within 25 min. Application of equivalent amount of iron (as FeSO4 × 7H2O and FeCl3 × 6H2O) under the same conditions allowed to diminish COD, TOC, Total N, Total P, TCC, MPN of fecal enterococci and TPC only by 38.1%, 37.0%, 20.8%, 95.8%, 94.4%, 58.2%, 90.8% and 41.6%, 45.7%, 29.2%, 95.8%, 92.1%, 58.2%, 90.0%, respectively. Thus, K2FeO4 could be applied as an environmentally friendly reagent for landfill leachate treatment.

Antimicrobial effects of airborne acoustic ultrasound and plasma activated water from cold and thermal plasma systems on biofilms

Bacterial biofilms are difficult to inactivate due to their high antimicrobial resistance. Therefore, new approaches are required for more effective bacterial biofilm inactivation. Airborne acoustic ultrasound improves bactericidal or bacteriostatic activity which is safe and environmentally friendly. While, plasma activated water (PAW) is attracting increasing attention due to its strong antimicrobial properties. This study determined efficacy of combined airborne acoustic ultrasound and plasma activated water from both cold and thermal plasma systems in inactivating Escherichia coli K12 biofilms. The application of airborne acoustic ultrasound (15 min) alone was significantly more effective in reducing E. coli counts in 48 and 72 h biofilms compared to 30 min treatment with PAW. The effect of airborne acoustic ultrasound was more pronounced when used in combination with PAW. Airborne acoustic ultrasound treatment for 15 min of the E. coli biofilm followed by treatment with PAW significantly reduced the bacterial count by 2.2—2.62 Log10 CFU/mL when compared to control biofilm treated with distilled water. This study demonstrates that the synergistic effects of airborne acoustic ultrasound and PAW for enhanced antimicrobial effects. These technologies have the potential to prevent and control biofilm formation in food and bio-medical applications.