Food Poisoning Research Articles

A novel PCR-based genotyping method for Proteus mirabilis – Intergenic region polymorphism analysis

Proteus mirabilis is a predominant species in cases of food poisoning associated with meat products and is also an opportunistic pathogen causing numerous infections in humans. This study aimed to differentiate P. mirabilis isolates using intergenic region polymorphism analysis (IRPA). The IRPA typing scheme was developed to amplify polymorphic fragments in intergenic regions (IGRs). The presence, absence, or size change of amplified products were identified and utilized as genetic markers for rapid differentiation of strains. A total of 75 P. mirabilis isolates were isolated from 63 fresh poultry and pork samples were subtyped using the IRPA and ERIC-PCR methods, and their antibiotic resistance profiles were tested. The majority of P. mirabilis isolates showed resistance to tetracycline (85.3%), doxycycline (93.3%), chloramphenicol (82.7%), streptomycin (92.0%), spectinomycin (80.0%), trimethoprim (97.3%); trimethoprim-sulfalleth (82.7%), and erythromycin (100.0%). In contrast, resistance rates to ceftriaxon, cefoxitin, cefepime, and cefotaxim were lower at only 17.3%, 5.3%, 6.7%, and 13.3%, respectively, among P. mirabilis isolates. Eleven loci were selected for analysis of the genetic diversity of 75 P. mirabilis isolates. A combination of 4 loci was determined as the optimal combination. The results compared to those obtained using ERIC-PCR for the same isolates. The Simpson's index of diversity was 0.999 for IRPA and 0.923 for ERIC-PCR, indicating that IRPA has a higher discriminatory power than ERIC-PCR. The concordance between IRPA and ERIC-PCR methods was low, primarily because IRPA classified isolates from the same ERIC cluster into separate clusters due to its high resolution. The IRPA method presented in this study offers a rapid, simple, reproducible, and economical approach for genotyping P. mirabilis.

A cross-sectional study examining the pattern of acute poisoning among patients admitted to a governmental hospitals in Sana'a City, Yemen

IntroductionAs in other countries, acute poisoning cases in Yemen are a public health problem that causes a high level of morbidity and mortality. Understanding the general aspects of this issue helps in reducing its severity. ObjectivesThe general goals of this study are to identify patterns of acute poisoning in Yemen, with a focus on poison type and sociodemographic variables. MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study conducted on 177 cases of acute poisoning in the emergency units of three government hospitals in Sana'a, Yemen. Information was collected using a questionnaire that included all sociodemographic and medical data related to each case. ResultsCases of acute poisoning were more common in males (56.5 %) than females(43.5 %), and concentrated in the age group of 21–30 years. Approximately 66,1 % of cases occurred in individuals residing in rural areas. The percentage of non-educated individuals (53.7 %) was higher than educated ones(46.3 %). The study indicated that poisoning incidents were either intentional or non-intentional. Regarding intentional poisoning, it was categorized into homicidal or suicidal acts. The most common toxic substances involved were pesticides(30.5 %), followed by household poisoning (22.0 %), food poisoning(20.9 %), and medications(16.9 %). The most prevalent symptoms accompanying poisoning were nausea and vomiting. With regard to loss of consciousness, the percentage of those who lost consciousness was (28.8 %), and most of the cases were those who were exposed to medicines. ConclusionsCases of acute poisoning are mostly caused by exposure to pesticides, followed by household poisoning incidents and food poisoning. Awareness about the risks of pesticides and how to handle them is crucial, especially since most poisoning cases occur in rural areas among non-educated individuals.

Presence of Pathogenic Bacteria in School Children's Snack Food Samples in Medan City

Purpose: Good and healthy food must be free from harmful and toxic substances, such as microbial contamination, chemicals, and other materials. The term School Children's Snack Food (PJAS) is a food that is found and routinely consumed by children in the school environment, food must meet the requirements of microbial contamination limits based on SNI (Indonesian National Standard) safety testing. The cause of food poisoning that is still a serious problem in various countries including Indonesia is pathogenic bacteria. The purpose of this study is to determine the presence of pathogenic bacteria in school children's snack food samples in Medan City in the Pematangsiantar area. Methodology: The methods used were the Nearest Approximate Count (JPT) of Escherichia coli, Bacillus sp. Number Test, Staphylococcus sp. Number Test, Salmonella Identification, and Total Plate Count (TPC). Findings: The test results on JPT Escherichia coli fried meatballs include SD M (9.9 ± 3.8) MPN/g, SD 5 (8.68 ± 2.73) MPN/g, SD IT (5.08 ± 0.66) MPN/g, and SD 4 (4.26 ± 2.44) MPN/g. The results of JPT Escherichia coli in fried meatballs in SD 1 and SD 2, as well as JPT E. coli ojek in all elementary schools, namely < 3 MPN/g. Significance: Conclusion that the snack food for elementary school children (fried and fried meatballs) in Pematangsiantar did not contain contamination with pathogenic bacteria Escherichia coli, Bacillus sp., Staphylococcus sp., Salmonella, and Total Plate Count (TPC).

Difficulties in Criminal Prosecution of Food Poisoning Cases Where the Pathogen Cannot be Determined

Difficulties in Criminal Prosecution of Food Poisoning Cases Where the Pathogen Cannot be Determined

Testing the Effectiveness of Mangosized Skin Extract (Garcinia mangostana) as an Antimicrobial Against Bacteria Causing GI Tract Infections

The mangosteen fruit, which in Latin is called Garcinia mangostana Linn, is a plant whose entire parts can be used, including the skin of the fruit. Mangosteen fruit has bioactive compounds such as xanthones, especially α, β, and γ-mangostin where the level of antimicrobial action of α-mangosteen has been explored by many researchers and it has been observed that it is not only effective against bacteria but also against other microbes such as fungi and mycobacteria. Gastrointestinal system infections are a serious health problem and have not been completely resolved until now because cases are increasing every year. Gastrointestinal tract infections are a health problem in the world, including in Indonesia. Some infectious diseases of the gastrointestinal system that are often found in the wider community are typhoid fever, paratyphoid fever, diarrhea, and gastroenteritis. The bacteria that cause typhoid fever and paratyphoid fever are caused by the bacteria Salmonella Typhi & Salmonella Paratyphi. While diarrhea and gastroenteritis are caused by food poisoning and drinks contaminated by E. coli. This research is an experimental laboratory research using the disc diffusion/Kirby Bauer method by measuring the diameter of the clear zone which is a sign that there is an obstacle to the growth of Salmonella typhi and E. Coli bacteria by the antimicrobial compounds contained in the mangosteen fruit extract. The calculation results of this research showed that mangosteen peel extract (Garciana Mangostana L) against E. Coli bacteria with the antibiotic Chloramphenicol as control showed an average diameter of the inhibition zone of 30.5 mm, whereas Salmonella bacteria were not found or no inhibition zone was formed at the smallest concentration up to greatest concentration Keywords: Mangosteen Peel, garcinia mangostana l., Gastrointestinal Infections, Effectiveness of

Rapid and simultaneous detection of Salmonella Sp. and Staphylococcus aureus in seafood by Multiplex PCR (mPCR)

aims: The present study is to investigate the prevalence of Salmonella sp. and Staphylococcus in seafood sample using multiplex polymerase chain reaction (mPCR). background: The rapid detection of food borne pathogen is increasing to ensure safety to consumers as major food borne illness is caused by pathogenic bacteria. Salmonellosis caused by Salmonella sp. is one of the primary concerns in many countries. Staphylococcus aureus is capable of generating toxins which can produce food poisoning in human body. objective: The thermostable nuclease (nuc) gene of Staphylococcus aureus and enterotoxin (stn) gene of Salmonella were used as target genes for mPCR detection. method: Totally, 10 seafood which includes fishes, crab and prawns which are generally available in Indian fish markets were selected for the present study. Samples that carried both the strains Salmonella and Staphylococcus were selected for mPCR by targeting the stn and nuc gene. result: Among 10 seafood samples collected, 7 of them carried Salmonella strain and 5 of them carried Staphylococcus strains. The results showed that 75% of the salmonella strains carried stn gene and 75% of the Staphylococcus strains carried nuc gene. conclusion: This study suggests that mPCR can be used for simultaneous detection by targeting the stn gene and nuc gene of salmonella and Staphylococcus food borne pathogens in seafood. other: Not applicable

Food poisoning causes and prevention and what to know about hygiene

Food-borne diseases are the most common health problems globally, and they are particularly common in Third World countries like India due to poor public sanitation and hygiene. Broadly speaking, food poisoning refers to any illness brought on by eating food that contains bacteria or non-bacterial substances. Stated differently, it's an acute instance of gastroenteritis caused by ingesting chemicals-contaminated food or drink, animal or plant-derived poisons, or living microbes and their toxins. Acute gastroenteritis is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. The most vulnerable are newborns and young children. The clinical symptoms of a foodborne infection are determined by the pathogenic mechanisms that underlie it. The main symptoms are headache, nervousness, intense thirst, abrupt vomiting, diarrhea, colicky discomfort, cold, clammy skin, slow heartbeat, rigours, and cramps. The provision of clean, drinkable water, appropriate disposal of human and animal sewage with isolation from water supplies, and fundamental food hygiene standards are all very effective ways to prevent the development of these disorders.

Isolation, characterization, and application of a lytic bacteriophage SSP49 to control Staphylococcus aureus contamination on baby spinach leaves

Staphylococcus aureus, a major foodborne pathogen, is frequently detected in fresh produce. It often causes food poisoning accompanied by abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. Additionally, the abuse of antibiotics to control S. aureus has resulted in the emergence of antibiotics-resistant bacteria, such as methicillin resistant S. aureus. Therefore, bacteriophage, a natural antimicrobial agent, has been suggested as an alternative to antibiotics. In this study, a lytic phage SSP49 that specifically infects S. aureus was isolated from a sewage sample, and its morphological, biological, and genetic characteristics were determined. We found that phage SSP49 belongs to the Straboviridae family (Caudoviricetes class) and maintained host growth inhibition for 30 h in vitro. In addition, it showed high host specificity and a broad host range against various S. aureus strains. Receptor analysis revealed that phage SSP49 utilized cell wall teichoic acid as a host receptor. Whole genome sequencing revealed that the genome size of SSP49 was 137,283 bp and it contained 191 open reading frames. The genome of phage SSP49 did not contain genes related to lysogen formation, bacterial toxicity, and antibiotic resistance, suggesting its safety in food application. The activity of phage SSP49 was considerably stable under various high temperature and pH conditions. Furthermore, phage SSP49 effectively inhibited S. aureus growth on baby spinach leaves both at 4 °C and 25 °C while maintaining the numbers of active phage during treatments (reductions of 1.2 and 2.1 log CFU/cm2, respectively). Thus, this study demonstrated the potential of phage SSP49 as an alternative natural biocontrol agent against S. aureus contamination in fresh produce.

Uncommon Millettia pachycarpa Benth poisoning: A case report.

Millettia pachycarpa Benth, rich in rotenone, can disrupt the mitochondrial electron transport chain. Ingestion may cause respiratory and central nervous system depression, and in severe cases, lead to death. This is the first detailed clinical case report of M. pachycarpa Benth poisoning, aiming to help systematization of diagnosis and treatment. An elderly male who lost consciousness for 3 hours after consuming the fruit of M. pachycarpa Benth. Arterial blood gas analysis indicated a significant decrease in pH, a sharp increase in lactate levels, and elevated CO2 partial pressure with normal O2 partial pressure. The patient was diagnosed with food intoxication by M. pachycarpa Benth, concomitant with aspiration pneumonia and distributive shock. The patient was given continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) and invasive mechanical ventilation. The patient was successfully discharged after 5 days of hospitalization. Follow-up after 2 weeks showed no significant discomfort. Isolated CO2 retention without hypoxemia, significantly reduced pH, and markedly elevated lactate levels strongly suggest poisoning by M. pachycarpa Benth. CRRT and invasive mechanical ventilation are beneficial for patients. Early implementation of CRRT to remove toxins and early initiation of assisted ventilation to improve respiratory failure are recommended upon suspicion of the disease.

Anisakid larvae in the skipjack tuna Katsuwonus pelamis captured in Japanese waters: Two-year monitoring of infection levels after the outbreak of human anisakiasis in 2018

In 2018, human anisakiasis caused by the ingestion of the skipjack tuna Katsuwonus pelamis occurred frequently in Japan. This may be attributable to a heavy infection of A. simplex (s.s.) in the host's muscle tissue. In this study, we investigate infection levels of anisakid L3 larvae in skipjack tuna captured in Japanese waters afterward (2019–2020) to contribute to predict and prevent the outbreak of human anisakiasis. A total of 476 larvae were detected from 78 out of 85 skipjack tuna captured at 14 stations of the Pacific and East China Sea. The present parasitological survey suggests that infection levels in 2019–2020 were low, comparing that in 2018; in total only seven larvae were found from the host's muscle tissue. The collected larvae were identified by molecular methods to Anisakis berlandi, A. pegreffii, A. simplex (s.s.), A. typica and Skrjabinisakis physeteris (s.l.). Not only larvae of A. simplex (s.s.) but also those of A. berlandi were found from the muscle tissue and thus the latter species may also be a causative agent of human anisakiasis. In addition, this study confirmed the geographic distribution pattern that A. simplex (s.s.) is abundant in the Pacific, while A. pegreffii is dominant in the East China Sea. Our results contribute to understanding the risk of food poisoning and stock delimitation of host animals.

Evaluation of effectiveness, viability and potential of molecular techniques as a research tool of Salmonella spp. in eggs

The majority of food intoxication is caused by Salmonella spp. originating from the intake of contaminated food, particularly of poultry and eggs. It is one of the most important zoonoses for Public Health, to be difficult to control, due to its high endemicity and morbidity and cause great socioeconomic impacts. This study aimed to investigate and identify the presence of Salmonella spp. in eggs and to verify the effectiveness of the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) as a test for the diagnosis of Salmonella spp. For this, eggs commercialized in the city of Patos-PB were used. It was identified that the isolates have genes encoding virulence factors (spvC e invA), important indicators of pathogenicity and high risk to the consumer. Despite the high specificity, PCR showed high complexity in the identification of the colonies compared to conventional biochemical techniques, however, it was found that the use of more than one identification method contributes favorably, by increasing the probability of detection of Salmonella spp. Nevertheless, it is imperative more researchs of the identification of Salmonella spp., in order to standardize PCR techniques, with the purpose of making it more efficient and viable for microbiological control in the food industry.

Public Health Significance of Verocytotoxigenic Escherichia coli: An Overview

Meat is a global vital protein source catering to diverse diets. By 2050, world’s population may rise to 9 billion and the demand for meat will exceed supply, necessitating a doubling of meat production. Nutritionally rich composition makes meat, a fertile ground for numerous microbes, leading to spoilage and foodborne illnesses, impacting human health. External factors like poor hygiene, inadequate post-production storage, mishandling and more contribute to meat contamination. The zoonotic strains of E. coli can cause severe food poisoning, with over 700 identified serotypes, hence it is crucial to identify, monitor and control E. coli to ensure food safety. Among E. coli pathotypes, Verocytotoxigenic E. coli (VTEC) stands out as major cause of food poisoning. The VTEC toxin (Shiga toxin), can induce mild diarrhea to severe form of illness like Hemorrhagic Uremic Syndrome and Hemorrhagic Colitis, posing a severe public health risk. The Cattle is a primary reservoir for VTEC, which, by faecal shedding, can pollute food, water and the environment. Furthermore, E. coli can spread through contaminated meat, raw milk and milk products. This bacterium is commonly found in the immediate surroundings of animal reservoir, including soil, grass and manure, leading to potential contamination of milk. E. coli infections not only impact humans but also animals, with cattle, sheep and poultry acting as reservoirs for different E. coli strains. Cattle populations frequently harbor E. coli O157:H7 asymptomatic carriers, contributing to faecal contamination of food and water sources. Educating the public about the risks associated with improper meat handling and contamination is essential to reduce foodborne illnesses. Monitoring and surveillance of meat quality in local markets, as are crucial steps towards ensuring food safety. This underscores the importance of understanding and managing E. coli contamination in meat to safeguard public health and ensure the safety of meat products in the global food supply chain.

RNA-Seq analysis of the fruiting bodies and mycelia of angel-wing mushroom Pleurocybella porrigens that cause acute encephalopathy

ObjectiveIn 2004, after consuming angel-wing mushrooms, Pleurocybella porrigens, 59 incidents of food poisoning were reported in Japan. Consequently, 17 individuals died of acute encephalopathy. In 2023, we proved that a lectin, pleurocybelline, and pleurocybellaziridine from this mushroom caused damage to the brains of mice. Although we reported genomic and transcriptomic data of P. porrigens in 2013, the assembly quality of the transcriptomic data was inadequate for accurate functional annotation. Thus, we obtained detailed transcriptomic data on the fruiting bodies and mycelia of this mushroom using Illumina NovaSeq 6000.ResultsDe novo assembly data indicated that the N50 lengths for the fruiting bodies and mycelia were improved compared with those previously reported. The differential expression analysis between the fruiting bodies and the mycelia revealed that 1,937 and 1,555 genes were significantly up-regulated in the fruiting bodies and the mycelia, respectively. The biological functions of P. porrigens transcripts, including PA biosynthetic pathways, were investigated using BLAST search, Gene Ontology, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis. The obtained results revealed L-valine, a predicted precursor of PA, is biosynthesized in the fruiting bodies and mycelia. Furthermore, real-time RT-PCR was performed to evaluate the accuracy of the results of differential expression analysis.

High toxinogenic potential of Staphylococcus aureus from wild ungulates in Brandenburg, Germany with a low level of antibiotic resistance.

Data regarding the occurrence and virulence of Staphylococcus (S.) aureus in wild living animals is rare. However, S. aureus may carry a multitude of virulence factors and express resistance to several antimicrobial substances. Handling game meat may thus lead to serious infections or food poisoning. The aim of this study was to provide insights into the occurrence and characteristics of S. aureus in wild ungulates from Brandenburg, Germany. Nasal swabs of externally healthy-looking wild boars, roe, fallow and red deer were collected in hunts during season 2021/2022 and analyzed for S. aureus by selective enrichment. Species were determined using matrix assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry and tested for phenotypic antimicrobial resistance. Whole-genome sequencing was conducted for genotyping, determination of virulence associated genes and analysis of phylogenetic relationships. S. aureus were recovered from approximately 8% of nasal swabs. However, the strains were only obtained from the sampled wild ruminants. S. aureus isolates were associated with sequence types (ST) 1, ST30, ST133, ST425, ST582 and ST6238. Isolates of ST1 clustered closely together in the phylogenetic analysis. Genes encoding staphylococcal enterotoxin (SE) or SE-like (SEl) were found in 14/17 isolates. In particular, a seh gene was present in 12/17 isolates. Moreover, two isolates harbored a multiplicity of genes encoding SE or SEl. In addition, the toxic shock syndrome toxin encoding tst gene was detected in one isolate. This isolate was resistant to penicillin and cefoxitin and accordingly harbored the blaZ gene. Wild ungulates intended for human consumption may carry potentially virulent S. aureus. In one case, the close phylogenetic relationship of S. aureus isolates indicates a possible intraspecific spread within a common territory. However, for others, the origin or the spread pattern can only be inferred. Handling of animals or their carcasses might contribute to staphylococcal infections in humans. Moreover, food poisoning due to SE producing strains may occur, if recommended hygiene practices are not applied during processing of game meat.

Molecular characterization of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated in ready-to-eat food sold in supermarkets in Bobo-Dioulasso: case of charcuterie products

BackgroundStaphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is one of the most widespread bacterial pathogens in animals and humans, and its role as an important causative agent of food poisoning is well-documented. The aim of this study was to highlight and characterize the resistance patterns of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) in charcuterie products sold in selected supermarkets (SM) in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.MethodsIn this study, 72 samples including ham (n = 19), merguez (n = 22), sausage (n = 15) and minced meat (n = 16) were collected from 3 supermarkets. Standard microbiology methods were utilised to characterise S. aureus isolates. Phenotypic resistance patterns were investigated using the disk diffusion method on Mueller-Hinton agar. Genotypic testing using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed on the isolates to detect the 16S-23S gene. Using specific primers, the following genes PVL, TSST-1, mecA, gyrA, gyrB, qnrA, intI1 and aac(6’)-Ib-cr were identified from purified DNA by PCR.ResultsAmong the 72 ready-to-eat food samples, S. aureus was present in 51, (70.83%). The yield was highest in both the ham and merguez food products, 15/51 (29.41%) each, followed by minced meat 12/51 (23.53%) and sausage 9/51 (17.65%). A total of 35 isolates (68.63%) were confirmed as S. aureus after molecular characterization using 16–23 S primers with 05 (14.29%) strains identified as MRSA. All of the MRSA and majority of the methicillin-sensitive S.aureus (MSSA) isolates were resistant to penicillin G, ampicillin, tetracycline and erythromycin, whereas one isolate from minced meat was found in SM3-harbouring PVL, TSST-1, mecA, gyrA, gyrB and Int1 genes.ConclusionsOur study revealed a high prevalence of S. aureus in chacuterie products in Bobo-Dioulasso with antimicrobial profiles that show resistance to most antibiotics. These findings should inform and augment efforts to raise awareness among local supermarket owners on adequate food manufacturing practices as well as promoting food safety and hygiene.

Exploring Natural Solutions: Botanical Approaches for Controlling Early Blight in Tomato Plants under Laboratory Conditions

Around the world, Alternaria solani is the culprit behind the deadly and devastating early blight of tomatoes. To control the mycelial growth of A. solani in this investigation, a concentration of 10% for each plant extract was examined using the poison food technique. In comparison to the control, the pathogen mycelial growth was greatly suppressed by all examined extracts. With a 90.54% inhibition at 10% concentration, garlic clove extract proved to be the most successful of the extracts. Other extracts that showed promise were neem leaf extract (87.83%), ginger (83.78%), eucalyptus (75.67%), bael (71.67%), onion bulb extract (68.67%), and ashwagandha (63.51%). On the other hand, with a mycelial growth of 35 mm and 52.70% inhibition, lantana proved to be the least successful. After seven days of incubation at 24°C, the chemical fungicide mancozeb proved to be the most effective overall, offering a 93.24% inhibition at a 0.25% dose. Chemicals pose health dangers even though farmers use them extensively to control tomato rot. This study provides useful information for farmers by highlighting appropriate plant extracts as less risky substitutes for treating tomato early blight.

Seizing the Hidden Assassin: Current Detection Strategies for Staphylococcus aureus and Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus.

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a kind of pathogenic bacteria which can lead to food poisoning, hospital, and community infections. S. aureus and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) have become headaches for public health worldwide. Therefore, strengthening the detection of S. aureus and MRSA is a critical step to prevent and control its spread and infection. This review summarized multiple detection methods (electrochemical, optical, and other biosensors) for sensitive and efficient detection of nonresistant and resistant S. aureus. First, we have introduced the principle and methods of detection platform for S. aureus and MRSA. We also contrasted various detection strategies. Finally, the current situation and prospect of S. aureus and MRSA detection in the future are explored in depth, and its development direction of detection methods is also predicted. In this review, we found that although biosensors have shown tremendous brilliance in the field of monitoring, they are currently in the experimental stage. It can be certain that we are very close to entering the commercialization stage. The point-of care testing available to nonprofessionals will become a new direction. We firmly believe that the monitoring system will be more perfect and stable and public life will be healthier and safer.

Coagulase-negative staphylococci from bovine milk: Antibiogram profiles and virulent gene detection

BackgroundCoagulase-negative Staphylococcus species are an emerging cause of intramammary infection, posing a significant economic and public health threat. The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species in bovine milk and dairy farms in Northwestern Ethiopia and to provide information about their antibiotic susceptibility and virulence gene profiles.MethodsThe cross-sectional study was conducted from February to August 2022. Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species were isolated from 290 milk samples. Species isolation and identification were performed by plate culturing and biochemical tests and the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of each isolate was determined by the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion test. The single-plex PCR was used to detect the presence of virulent genes. The STATA software version 16 was used for data analysis. The prevalence, proportion of antimicrobial resistance and the number of virulent genes detected from coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species were analyzed using descriptive statistics.ResultsCoagulase-negative Staphylococcus species were isolated in 28.6%, (95% CI: 23.5–34.2) of the samples. Of these, the S. epidermidis, S. sciuri, S. warneri, S. haemolyticus, S. simulans, S. chromogens, S. cohnii, and S. captis species were isolated at the rates of 11, 5.2, 3.4, 3.1, 3.1, 1, 1, and 0.7% respectively. All the isolates showed a high percentage (100%) of resistance to Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, and Cefotetan and 37.5% of resistance to Oxacillin. The majority (54.2%) of coagulase-negative isolates also showed multidrug resistance. Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species carried the icaD, pvl, mecA, hlb, sec, and hla virulent genes at the rates of 26.5%, 22.1%, 21.7%, 9.6%, 9.6% and 8.4% respectively.ConclusionThe present study revealed that the majority of the isolates (54.2%) were found multidrug-resistant and carriage of one or more virulent and enterotoxin genes responsible for intramammary and food poisoning infections. Thus, urgent disease control and prevention measures are warranted to reduce the deleterious impact of coagulase-negative species. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study in Ethiopia to detect coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species with their associated virulent and food poisoning genes from bovine milk.

Food safety knowledge and practices of food handlers at a public Sudanese university

The study was conducted to evaluate food safety knowledge and practices of food handlers in twenty-four food premises at nine campuses of Sudan University of Science and Technology (SUST), Khartoum State, Sudan. A structured questionnaire about demographic characteristics, food safety knowledge and practices of one hundred and five respondents was used. Data showed that 95.2% of respondents were Sudanese; 99% were males, the majority were singles, 43.8% were university graduates, 64.8% were in the age group 20-30 years, 100% had good knowledge regarding the importance of maintaining a clean environment in food premises, preparing food in a safe way, danger of food poisoning and 95.4% agreed that it is their responsibility to prevent food poisoning. Food handlers had in general satisfactory practices of personal hygiene; however, 64.8 to 69.5% had some poor practices, particularly not wearing clean aprons, masks, gloves and hair nets. Among the respondents 68.6% received basic training in food safety. The study suggests that mandatory food safety education and training should be organized to strengthen food handlers' knowledge, attitudes and practices in food safety areas which are either weak or lacking. The HACCP system should be implemented in food premises at the university campuses.

Coordination regulation of enhanced performance reveals the tolerance mechanism of Chlamys farreri to azaspiracid toxicity

Azaspiracids (AZAs) are lipid biotoxins produced by the marine dinoflagellates Azadinium and Amphidoma spp. that can accumulate in shellfish and cause food poisoning in humans. However, the mechanisms underlying the tolerance of shellfish to high levels of such toxins remain poorly understood. This study investigated the combined effects of detoxification metabolism and stress-related responses in scallops Chlamys farreri exposed to AZA. Scallops accumulated a maximum of 361.81 μg AZA1 eq/kg and 41.6 % AZA residue remained after 21 days of exposure. A range of AZA2 metabolites, including AZA19, AZA11, and AZA23, and trace levels of AZA2-GST, were detected. Total hemocyte counts significantly increased and ROS levels remained consistently high until gradually decreasing. Immune system activation mediated mitochondrial dysfunction and severe energy deficiency. DEGs increased over time, with key genes CYP2J6 and GPX6 contributing to AZA metabolism. These transcriptome and metabolic results identify the regulation of energy metabolism pathways, including inhibition of the TCA cycle and activation of carbohydrates, amino acids, and lipids. AZA also induced autophagy through the MAPK-AMPK signaling pathways, and primary inhibited PI3K/AKT to decrease mTOR pathway expression. Our results provide additional insights into the resistance of C. farreri to AZA, characterized by re-establishing redox homeostasis toward a more oxidative state.