Fecal Matter Research Articles

Briquetting of black soldier fly frass as a post-harvest stabilization strategy

ABSTRACT The production–consumption cycle needs a transition towards a circular economy where waste valorization is included. This study investigated briquetting as a stabilization method for black soldier fly frass (BSFF) with faecal matter, pig manure, and poultry manure as the larvae feed. Herein, dried BSFF was pyrolyzed at 350 °C for 2 h to produce biochar then mixed with charcoal dust in equal ratio to produce biobriquettes through densification, with cassava gel (10 wt%) as binder. One-way ANOVA showed statistical significance in carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen, and oxygen. There were significant differences (p < 0.05) between the calorific value, moisture content, ash content, volatile matter, and fixed carbon of the briquettes. The fixed carbon, volatile matter, moisture, and ash content ranged from 29.66 ± 0.86 to 42.01 ± 0.92, 29.26 ± 0.52 to 32.59 ± 0.80, 2.95 ± 0.1 to 5.08 ± 0.04, and 21.48 ± 0.14 to 37.20 ± 0.29, respectively. The calorific value of the produced briquettes ranged from 16.25 ± 0.57 to 20.70 ± 0.53 MJ/kg, which exceeds the minimum requirement of 14.5 MJ/kg recommended for non-woody briquettes. During combustion, concentrations of NOx, N2O, CO, and CO2 varied significantly across the treatments with the acacia charcoal having the highest concentration of CO. Briquetting is a potential stabilization method for frass resulting in waste reduction, bioenergy production, reduced adverse effects of climate change, and enhanced sustainability.

IMMU-43. GUT MICROBIOTA SHAPE IMMUNE PATTERNS IN NAÏVE AND GLIOMA-BEARING HUMANIZED MICROBIOME MICE

Abstract Immunotherapy increases survival in mouse models of glioblastoma, but this is not observed in clinical trials. To address this issue, we employed a humanized microbiome (HuM) mouse model where fecal matter is transplanted from healthy human donors into gnotobiotic mice. Our previous research found that in the GL261 model of glioma, HuM mouse lines could be classified as either responders or nonresponders to anti-PD-1 therapy based solely on the gut microbiota unique to each HuM line. Here, we sought to determine the immune differences between responder and nonresponder HuM lines in both naïve (tumor-free) and glioma conditions. Single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis of naïve colonic CD45+ cells showed that responder colons had higher frequencies of neutrophils and naïve B cells and lower frequencies of plasmablast and plasma cells. Notably, colonic neutrophils in naïve responders upregulated H2-Eb1 and Il1a compared to nonresponders. To validate the scRNA-seq data, flow cytometry was also performed on the naïve lymph nodes (LNs) and brains. The gut-draining LNs of responders had a higher frequency of CD45+ immune cells and CD4+CD8+ T cells and a lower frequency of Tregs than nonresponders. In naïve brains, responders had a higher frequency of CD45+ cells and macrophages than nonresponders and trended toward having fewer CD206+ macrophages. When mice were injected with GL261 tumor cells and treated with one dose of anti-PD-1, there was a trend for an increase in Nos2+ CD11b+ cells in both frequency and count compared to nonresponders, indicating an early and robust anti-tumor myeloid response in the responders. In summary, these results show how variations in the microbiota of HuM mice impact the immune environment across multiple organs in the baseline and tumor states, which potentially accounts for the positive response to anti-PD-1 therapy in the glioma model.

Alterations in maternal–fetal gut and amniotic fluid microbiota associated with fetal growth restriction

BackgroundFetal growth restriction (FGR) is typically characterised as the fetus’ inability to reach its inherent growth potential. A growing body of evidence points to the important role of the maternal gut microbiota in FGR development. However, comprehensive research on changes in maternal–fetal gut and intrauterine microbiota related to FGR is lacking.MethodsIn this case–control study, we sequenced bacterial 16S rRNA from 35 maternal faecal, 35 meconium, and 31 amniotic fluid samples collected from 19 pregnant women diagnosed with FGR and 16 healthy controls. We identified putative bacterial taxonomic and functional characteristics associated with FGR by comparing these to control samples.ResultsWe identified 34 differential operational taxonomic units (OTUs) in amniotic fluid, seven differential OTUs in maternal faecal matter, and two differential OTUs in meconium. Compared to controls, FGR subjects exhibited enriched bacterial OTUs of the genus Bacteroides in the maternal gut. They also had depleted OTUs of the order Enterobacterales and genus Pseudomonas in the amniotic fluid and genus Stenotrophomonas in the fetal gut. These altered bacterial OTUs showed a significant correlation with neonatal weight and fetal ultrasonographic indexes. Additionally, we identified differential microbial functional pathways related to glycan and lipid metabolism in the maternal gut. We developed diagnostic biomarkers for FGR based on the maternal–fetal gut and amniotic fluid microbiota.ConclusionsThis study offers a comprehensive overview of the shifts in microbial composition and functional pathways in the maternal–fetal gut and amniotic fluid microbiota related to FGR, and present novel insights into the development and screening of FGR. However, the assessment of contamination’s impact on meconium and amniotic fluid remains inconclusive, necessitating further rigorous experimentation to address this scientific inquiry in future studies.

Enhanced Neuroprotection in Experiment Multiple Sclerosis through Combined Rosiglitazone and Probiotic-Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: Modulation of Cellular Signaling Pathways.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a persistent autoimmune condition characterized by inflammation and neurodegeneration. The current efficacy of treatments is limited, which has generated interest in developing neuroprotective strategies. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and probiotics are potential drug delivery vehicles for targeting the CNS (Central nervous system), regulating immune responses, and supporting neuroprotection in neurological conditions. The study investigates how SLNs containing RSG (rosiglitazone) and probiotics can protect the nervous system in cases of MS. We administered toxin EtBr (Ethidium bromide) from day 1 to day 7, later followed by the treatment from day 8 to day 35. During this time interval, various behavioural parameters have been performed. Further, after 35th day, blood plasma of animals was collected to study complete CBC profiling and animals were sacrificed. Then, biochemical and molecular studies, gross morphology of brain sectioning, histopathological evaluation and estimation of fatty acid content in fecal matter were performed. RSG shows neuroprotective effects by blocking the STAT-3 and mTOR signaling pathways and increasing the production of PPAR-gamma. GW9662, a PPAR-gamma antagonist given at a dose of 2 mg/kg (i.p), was utilized to evaluate the role of PPAR-gamma and to compare the efficacy of RSG and probiotic-loaded SLNs in potentially providing neuroprotection. The relationship between RSG and the STAT-3, mTOR, and PPAR-gamma pathways in MS was confirmed and validated using in-silico analysis. RSG and probiotic-loaded SLNs modulate the complete blood profiling of rats and improve the symptoms of MS. We assessed the diagnostic capabilities of different biological samples such as cerebrospinal fluid, blood plasma, and brain homogenates (specifically from the hippocampus, striatum, cortex, and midbrain) to analyze neurochemical changes linked to neurobehavioral changes in the progression of MS. The study showed that combining RSG and probiotics in an experimental medication form improved symptoms of MS more effectively than using RSG alone. This improvement is likely due to changes in STAT-3, mTOR, and PPAR-gamma signaling pathways.

Gut and intraocular fluid dysbiosis in people with type 2 diabetes-related retinopathy in India: A case for further research.

To explore the relationship between gut microbiome, gut mycobiome, and intraocular (aqueous humor) microbiome dysbiosis in people with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and diabetic retinopathy (DR). Multiple case-control studies. We evaluated three groups of people: healthy controls (HC), people with T2DM without retinopathy, and those with DR. The study samples included fecal matter (30-50 g) and aqueous humor (0.05-0.1 mL). After amplicon sequencing, we analyzed microbiome profiles (V3-V4 region of bacterial 16S rRNA gene) and mycobiome (ITS2 region of fungal rRNA gene). The main outcome measures were relative abundance, α and β diversity, and dysbiotic bacteria and fungi, analyzed based on the inferred functions of the taxa. We recruited 82 people for gut microbiome (30 HC, 24 DM, and 28 DR); 75 people for gut mycobiome (30 HC, 21 DM, and 24 DR); and 12 people for aqueous humor microbiome (4 each HC, DM, and DR) studies. Generally, there was an increased abundance of pro-inflammatory and pathogenic microorganisms and a decreased abundance of anti-inflammatory and probiotic microorganisms. The differences were higher between HC and DM/DR than between DM and DR. In aqueous humor, there was a wider separation in microbiome profiles of people with DR than their gut microbiome. The gut and aqueous humor microbiota of people with diabetes and DR may differ from those without diabetes. Given these unique observations in individuals living in one region of India, further research involving people from different regions is required to identify indices for possible regional or global use.

Effects of biological filtration by ascidians on microplastic composition in the water column

Plastic pollution, a widespread environmental challenge, significantly impacts marine ecosystems. The degradation of plastic under environmental conditions results in the generation of microplastic (MP; <5 mm) fragments, frequently ingested by marine life, including filter-feeders such as ascidians (Chordata, Ascidiacea). These organisms are integral to benthic-pelagic coupling, transporting MP from the water column through marine food web.Here, we explored the effect of filtration and digestion by the solitary ascidian Styela plicata on the composition of MP in the water column and on the sinking rates of faecal matter, focusing on differences between two distinct plastics, polystyrene (PS) and the biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA). The ascidians efficiently removed 2–5 μm particles within 2 h of filtration. Following digestion and secretion process, PS concentrations in water increased while PLA concentration remained stable. Some particles were egested into the water column repackaged inside faecal pellets, which significantly increased the pellets' drag force and sinking velocity. Raman spectral analysis of digested MP revealed distinct spectrum alterations due to coating by organic substances. These findings highlight the role of ascidians — and other filter-feeders— in modifying the structure of MP in their environment. Research into such modifications is crucial for understanding the MP cycle and its consequences in marine environments.

Helicobacter pylori: A Cause of peptic ulcer disease among Adolescent Girls in Africa

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a major global health concern that often results in hospitalization due to insufficient protective factors in the mucosa. Helicobacter pylori contributes to PUD development, causing symptoms such as epigastric pain, bloating, fullness, and nausea. An extensive literature search was conducted using electronic databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar to identify articles published between 2013 and 2024. Relevant cross-sectional studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, literature reviews, and case reports were included in the analysis, whereas editorials, perspectives, and commentaries were excluded from the study. Overall, 20% of teenagers and 45% of individuals aged &gt;45 years were infected with H. pylori, indicating that transmission can occur at any age during childhood and adolescence. Moreover, 8.4% of adolescents aged 10 &amp;ndash; 19 years and 64.6% of those aged &lt;18 years tested positive for H. pylori. This bacterium can spread through familial transmission and exposure to oral or fecal matter. Large households and bedroom sharing were associated with H. pylori infection, and adolescents from rural areas showed a higher infection rate than those from urban areas. Improving personal hygiene and implementing educational initiatives within families are key to curbing the spread of H. pylori infection in Africa. Prioritizing hygiene and social improvements in national and subnational strategies can considerably reduce infection rates. Adopting a whole family-based approach and allocating funds for relevant projects can benefit families and children across the continent. Moreover, prompt implementation of interventions to combat H. pylori infection among African adolescents is essential. Promoting cleanliness and raising awareness are key strategies to ensure long-term health among the African youth.

Orientation, thermal characteristics and structural dimensions of Mangrove Kingfisher Halcyon senegaloides nest cavities in arboreal termitaria in central Mozambique

The breeding ecology of the Mangrove Kingfisher Halcyon senegaloides (family Alcedinidae) remains poorly known. While the few nests recorded in southern and East Africa have been in tree hollows, a seasonal population in central Mozambique woodland breeds in cavities in arboreal termitaria. Despite this breeding strategy being widely recorded in many tropical kingfisher species, it has received little research attention in the Afrotropical realm. We report on the siting and structural characteristics of arboreal termitaria used as nesting sites by Mangrove Kingfishers in central Mozambique and document the thermal dynamics of a nesting cavity in an arboreal termitarium. Arboreal termitaria (average volume 40.1 ± 23.8 l) occurred at a density of 0.52 ± 0.22 termitaria ha−1 in large trees or shrubs, mostly of the families Fabaceae and Malvaceae. Termitaria containing nest cavities were situated 10.8 ± 3.1 m above the ground, and most nests (78.6%) faced north. Nest cavity temperatures averaged 31.4 ± 2.6 °C, which is warmer and more stable than the average ambient temperatures of 28.7 ± 4.0 °C. ‘Carton’ termitaria (comprising a mixture of faecal matter and wood fragments) are thus believed to confer a thermal advantage for summer-nesting Mangrove Kingfishers.

Palaeobiological and geochemical aspects of reptilian coprolites from a Maastrichtian Deccan volcano-sedimentary intertrappean deposit of central India

Cretaceous-Paleogene coprolite (fossilized faecal matter) records are significant in terms of providing direct palaeobiological evidence (from inclusions) in order to understand the diet of producer animal(s). In the past >150 years, research investigations (in India) have focussed on the Maastrichtian Type-A coprolite morphotype. Consequently, little information is available on the overall assemblage of Indian Maastrichtian vertebrate coprolites in terms of their morphological diversity, chemical composition, biotic-abiotic inclusions in the context of producer linkage(s) and geographic distribution within the Deccan volcano-sedimentary infra- and intertrappean deposits of India. Therefore, we present a detailed record of a coprolite assemblage from the Maastrichtian intertrappean deposits of Lotkheri, central India. This coprolite assemblage comprises five morphotypes based on their geometry, surface, and internal textures. Morphological considerations and biotic inclusions suggest that reptiles were the most likely producers of these ichnofossils. The associated faunal remains of reptiles (mainly chelonians and crocodilians) support this hypothesis. Dentalites or bite traces of Garfish (genus Lepisosteus) observed on the external surface of a few coprolite specimens (studied herein) are a rarity in the global fossil records. The analytical evidence confirm the phosphatic composition of the coprolites with the unique presence of three distinct morphologies (i.e. spherical, rods, and needles) of apatite crystals. Finally, we provide the chemical nature and plausible mechanism of apatite crystal formation via the chemical processes undergoing during the biomineralization of these crystals observed within coprolites.

Case Report: Hymenolepis diminuta in an asymptomatic Ecuadorian child.

Background The cestode Hymenolepis diminuta is a cosmopolitan parasite, which in the adult stage is usually found in the small intestine of rats and accidentally in humans. Case report We describe the finding of eggs of this parasite in an asymptomatic 3-year-old child. The child had extremely high IgE values of 1,376 IU/ml. After receiving treatment with Albendazole suspension 400mg/20mL, on the 10th day post-treatment, he showed no H. diminuta eggs in his fecal matter Conclusions Detailed morphological review of Hymenolepis nana-like eggs is recommended to distinguish them from H. diminuta eggs.

Role of various virulence factors involved in the pathogenesis of Entamoeba histolytica

Developing countries continuously face challenges to get rid of amoebiasis, a protozoan disease caused by Entamoeba histolytica. Every year around 900 million people get affected by amoebiasis, among them only 10 % of people show the symptoms of the disease while 90 % of people do not show any symptoms but still, serve as carriers of the disease. Asymptomatic persons carry cysts of Entamoeba in their fecal matter, which is carried by house flies to contaminate the food and water. Entamoeba histolytica is a very successful pathogen because it has very well-developed virulence factors that function in infection to host as well as in overcoming the host's immune response. However, researchers have very little information about the clear relationship between virulence factors and the virulence of Entamoeba histolytica, through various research, researchers have been able to identify key pathogenic factors that are crucial to the pathogenesis of amoebiasis and have provided valuable insights into the development of the disease. The objective of this review is to underscore various virulence factors (Monosaccharides, Gal/GalNAc lectin, extracellular vesicles, cysteine proteases, amoeba-pores, and actin microfilament) involved in pathogenesis which may be helpful for designing of future drug or therapy.

An Alternative Approach to Validate the Cleaning Efficiency of a Skin Cleansing Wipe

A key functionality for cleansing wipes is their efficiency in removing dirt and microbial contamination from the skin to safe or non-detectable levels, traditionally determined using the gravimetric method, which has been reported to be prone to experimental errors. This study evaluates the efficiency of a water-based cleansing wipe, WaterWipes® (WaterWipes, UC, Drogheda, Ireland), for removing synthetic faecal matter (FecloneTM, SiliClone Creations LLC, Havertown, PA, United States) and Escherichia coli (NCTC 10538) from volunteers’ skin, the former using a dermal analytical device called the Antera 3DTM camera (Miravex Ltd., Dublin, Ireland), and the latter using standard microbiological methods. FecloneTM was applied to participants’ forearms and the Antera 3DTM camera captured detailed images of the skin surface before and after wiping. The Antera 3DTM camera approach was found to be effective in measuring cleaning efficiency, with the wipe removing all detectable traces of the FecloneTM applied. The total pore area (mm2), pore count, and total pore volume (mm3) in test participants post-wiping were observed to be reduced on average by 39.05%, 34.39%, and 39.98%, respectively. The wipe removed 99.99% of E. coli (NCTC 10538) applied, as measured using the microbial plate count method. In conclusion, the Antera 3DTM camera method was observed to be effective in evaluating removal of topically applied FecloneTM.

Assessing human-source microbial contamination of stormwater in the U.S

Stormwater capture and use (SCU) projects have the potential to provide a significant portion of municipal water demand. However, uncertainty about the degree of microbial contamination in stormwater and the required treatment is a barrier for implementation of SCU projects. Stormwater runoff could become contaminated with human fecal matter in areas with deteriorating infrastructure where raw wastewater exfiltrates from sewer networks to stormwater collection networks, homeless encampments exist, or sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) occur. Estimation of human fecal contamination can inform selection of stormwater treatment targets. This study investigates stormwater microbial contamination originating from human fecal matter using observed detections and concentrations of human microbial source tracking (MST) markers and potentially human-infectious pathogens (PHIPs). First, a systematic review complied measurements of human MST markers in wet and dry weather stormwater flows and influent wastewater. In addition, measurements of viral pathogens (e.g., adenoviruses, norovirus GI+GII, and enteroviruses) and protozoan pathogens (e.g., Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum) in wet weather flows and influent wastewater were assessed. Human MST marker and PHIP data were statistically analyzed and applied to estimate a human fecal contamination analog (HFCA) which is an estimate of the amount of human fecal matter based on relative concentrations of microbial contaminants in stormwater compared to municipal wastewater. Human MST-based HFCAs in wet and dry weather flows ranged from <10−7.0 to 10−1.5 (median = 10−4.5) and 10−12 to 10−2.6 (median = 10−7.0), respectively. PHIP-based HFCAs in wet weather flows ranged from ∼10−8 to 10−0.14. Estimates of human MST-based HFCAs are more reliable than PHIP-based HFCAs because the current PHIP datasets are generally limited by the number of data points, percent detection, variability observed within the statistical distributions, and the geographical span of sampling locations. The use of human MST-based HFCAs is recommended to guide the selection of stormwater treatment process trains that are protective of public health based on the intended end use. Application of HFCA 10−1 (i.e., sewage dilution 10−1) remains a reasonable conservative estimate of human fecal contamination in stormwater to inform selection of pathogen log reduction targets based on the data presently available.

Assessing the Diet of the Elusive North American River Otter (Lontra canadensis) in Florida Using Faecal DNA Metabarcoding

ABSTRACTNorth American river otters (Lontra canadensis) are semiaquatic mammals distributed throughout the North American continent. They are generalist carnivores with a high potential to affect community structure and dynamics. However, habitat degradation and ecosystem changes have the potential to impact their trophic interactions. Therefore, investigating their diet is critical to understand how anthropogenic disturbances can affect their ecological roles, particularly in the urbanised ecosystems in Florida, where such diet information is currently unavailable. Due to their elusive nature, direct observation of feeding events is a major challenge. Here, we have applied DNA metabarcoding of faecal matter (fDNA), opportunistically collected from river otters killed by road traffic in eastern Florida. Two mitochondrial markers were used to identify prey species' DNA—one for fish and one for vertebrates. A total of 23 unique exact sequence variants (ESVs) were identified, the majority belonging not only to teleosts but also to amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. The prey species identified are known dietary resources for river otters and the recovered dietary profiles provided independently by the fish and vertebrate assays were similar. Among the identified teleost prey, three fish species are considered invasive. Here, we show that when sufficient reference sequences are available, fDNA metabarcoding provides high prey species resolution. The collection and metabarcoding of faecal samples is particularly advantageous for scaling diet studies, both geographically and longitudinally, highlighting the potential of fDNA metabarcoding for the investigation of the diet of predators. This can provide foundational information on the organisation of ecological networks, which is vital for implementing successful ecosystem‐based conservation management.

A new microcoprolite assemblage from the Upper Triassic Tiki Formation of India: ichnotaxonomy, and producer association(s)

ABSTRACT We record the first occurrence of a microcoprolite assemblage from the Upper Triassic Tiki Formation, Son – Mahanadi Basin, India. The microcoprolite assemblage has been assigned to four new ichnotaxa namely Cylindrocopros gondwanensis igen. et isp. nov., Elliptocopros rewaensis igen. et isp. nov., Convolucopros shadolensis igen. et isp. nov., and Cylindribulbocopros triassicus igen. et isp. nov. based on their external morphology, internal texture, and geochemical composition. Geochemical techniques confirm the phosphatic nature of the microcoprolites recorded from the Tiki Formation. Taken together, the associated fauna and the morphological comparisons between previously known coprolites from the Mesozoic-Cenozoic sedimentary sequences suggest that the Tiki microcoprolites were likely produced by carnivorous actinopterygians. The dentalites or biting traces observed on the external surface of the ichnotaxa recorded herein are the oldest records from the subcontinent. SEM analysis reveals the dominant presence of egg-like mineral spheres ‘microspherulites’, needle- and rod-shaped apatite crystals; however, the microcoprolites are devoid of biotic (floral and faunal) inclusions. Considering the abiotic crystals and geochemistry, we infer that the original faecal matter most likely underwent rapid precipitation during the early phase of mineralisation and had a very high potential for fossilisation.

Innovative approaches to controlling Salmonella in the meat industry

Salmonella, a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium from the Enterobacteriaceae family, is a significant cause of illnesses in humans and animals. It resides in the digestive tracts of livestock, poultry, and other warm-blooded animals and can contaminate various environments and foods through fecal matter. Salmonella enterica, the main species that affects humans, is widespread in cattle, pigs, and poultry. Despite efforts to control pathogens in meat systems, over 1.4 million human salmonellosis cases occur annually in the U.S., with serotypes S. enteritidis and S. typhimurium being predominant. Advances in meat processing have targeted pathogen reduction at multiple stages, but more innovative approaches are needed for substantial public health impact. This paper discusses current and future strategies to minimize Salmonella in the food supply. It emphasizes pre- and post-harvest Salmonella prevalence by biomapping it through the whole processing chain, focusing on beef and pork interventions such as probiotics. These interventions have shown promise in reducing pathogen loads in cattle manure and lymph nodes. Techniques such as microbiome, whole genome sequencing (WGS), and electron microscopy (EM) provide detailed insights into Salmonella's genetic and bacterial structural-morphological characteristics, aiding in the development of targeted interventions. Integrating rapid detection, biomapping, and enviromapping enhances pathogen tracking in meat production, reducing Salmonella prevalence and improving risk assessment and food safety. The advanced, current, and innovative techniques allow for timely identification, detailed spatial and quantitative data, and more effective interventions. This leads to safer food products and reduces foodborne illnesses.

Modulation of fecal microbiota and reductions in fecal antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) driven by Weissella-fermented feed in growing pigs

Probiotics-induced feed fermentation can improve the composition of microbiota, leading to benefits in pig production. However, the influence of probiotics-driven feed fermentation on pollution reduction is limited. This study aimed to analyze the impact of Weissella-based feed fermentation on the chemical characteristics, changes in microbial abundance, and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Moreover, the possible mechanism and the association among them was also analyzed. First, pigs reared on fermented feed exhibited improved growth performance. The fermentation group showed a significant reduction in emissions of total phosphorus (TP), total carbon (TC), organic matter (OM), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) levels in feces compared to the control group. The fermentation group also showed a significant decrease in the ARGs, especially for the tetX, tetW, tetQ, tetL, tetO, tet32, tet44, ermG, ermF, CfxA2, CfxA3, aph3-III, aadA, and ant9-I, compared to the control group. The primary functional microbiota, characterized by increased levels of Bifidobacterium, Megasphaera, and Mitsuokella, and decreased levels of Methanosphaera, and Ruminiclostridium, displayed both negative and positive correlations with ARGs, TC, TP, OM, Cu, and Zn. Furthermore, a significant association was observed between the alterations in microbiota and ARGs and the lactic acid concentration in the fermented feed. The molecular docking results showed a good fit between lactate dehydrogenase and three antibiotics, particularly tetracycline. In conclusion, these results offer novel targets and strategies to address environmental pollutants associated with pig farming.

PSIX-8 A multistrain probiotic modifies fecal microbial populations of healthy adult cats

Abstract Probiotics can modulate the intestinal microbiota and benefit the host’s health, whereas environmental stressors can negatively impact the composition of the intestinal microbiota. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB), most commonly Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species, are well-known organisms with probiotic potential. The objective of this study was to determine the impact on the fecal microbial population of healthy Cats, after ingestion of a probiotic blend of Lactobacillus acidophilus-286, Bifidobacterium animalis subs. Lactis-689, and Enterococcus faecium-202. Thirty adult cats (15 male, 15 female; mean BW=3.39 kg; mean age=3.3 y) were enrolled in this placebo-controlled and blinded study. After a 7-d washout period, cats were allocated into two groups similar in terms of body weight, age, and sex. Cats were fed a complete dry extruded diet and at time 0 h on d-0 received orally 4 g of a placebo paste or probiotic paste corresponding to the target dose of 4x107 total CFU. Administration of the placebo or probiotic was repeated 12 h and 24 h after the first dose. Afterward, fecal scores were evaluated daily for 7 days. Fresh fecal samples were collected on days 0, 3, and 7 for microbial enumerations and fecal metabolite measurements. Fecal microbial count data did not conform to the assumptions of normality and homogeneity of variances, consequently, non-parametric tests were performed for comparisons. Fecal scores, dry matter, and metabolites were not different between groups. Fecal counts of Lactobacillus spp., Bifidobacterium spp., and Enterococcus spp. were greater on both d-3 and d-7 (P &amp;lt; 0.01) in cats that consumed probiotics. Fecal counts of both Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringens were fewer (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in cats that consumed probiotics. In conclusion, the consumption by cats on d-0 of a probiotic blend of Lactobacillus acidophilus-286, Bifidobacterium animalis subs. Lactis-689, and Enterococcus faecium-202 modified the intestinal microbiota up to 7 days after consumption, as evidenced by the increase of lactic acid bacteria and the decrease of Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringens in feces.

PSIX-7 A multi-strain probiotic modifies fecal microbial populations of healthy adult dogs

Abstract Probiotics can modulate the intestinal microbiota and benefit the health of the host, whereas environmental stressors can negatively impact the composition of the intestinal microbiota. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB), most commonly Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species, are well-known organisms with probiotic potential. The objective of this study was to determine the impact on the fecal microbial population of healthy dogs, after ingestion of a probiotic blend of Lactobacillus acidophilus-286, Bifidobacterium animalis subs. Lactis-689, and Enterococcus faecium-202. Adult dogs [n = 30; 15 male, 15 female; mean body weight (BW) = 14.7 kg; mean age = 3.3 yr) were enrolled in this placebo-controlled and blinded study. After a 7-d washout period, dogs were allocated into two groups similar in terms of breed, BW, age, and sex. Dogs were fed a complete dry extruded diet and at time 0 h on d 0 received orally 4 g of a placebo paste or probiotic paste corresponding to the target dose of 4x107 total CFU. Administration of the placebo or probiotic was repeated 12 h and 24 h after the first dose. Afterward, fecal scores were evaluated daily for 7 d. Fresh fecal samples were collected on d 0, 3, and 7 for microbial enumerations and fecal metabolite measurements. Fecal microbial count data did not conform to the assumptions of normality and homogeneity of variances, consequently, non-parametric tests were performed for comparisons. Fecal scores, dry matter, and metabolites were not different between groups. Fecal counts of Lactobacillus spp., Bifidobacterium spp., and Enterococcus spp. were greater on both d 3 and d 7 (P &amp;lt; 0.01) in dogs that consumed probiotics. Fecal counts of both Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringens were fewer (P &amp;lt; 0.01) in dogs that consumed probiotics. In conclusion, the consumption by dogs on d 0 of a probiotic blend of Lactobacillus acidophilus-286, Bifidobacterium animalis subs. Lactis-689, and Enterococcus faecium-202 modified the intestinal microbiota up to 7 d after consumption, as evidenced by the increase of lactic acid bacteria and the decrease of Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringens in feces.

Simultaneous Use of Iron/Anticoccidial Treatment and Vaccination against Oedema Disease: Impact on the Development of Serum-Neutralising Antibodies, Hematinic and Anticoccidial Activities in Piglets.

Oedema disease (OD) in weaned piglets is caused by shigatoxigenic Escherichia coli (STEC), which produces the Stx2e toxin. The disease is controlled by early vaccination (for example, with Ecoporc Shiga®). Iron-deficiency anaemia (IDA) and cystoisosporosis are the most common clinical conditions in piglets. These conditions are managed mainly by the intramuscular injection of iron and application of toltrazuril (for example, Forceris®). In the present study, we sought to evaluate any effect on the efficacy of OD vaccination and iron/anticoccidial treatment resulting from a simultaneous application. An evaluation was carried out by measuring the development of neutralising antibodies against the Stx2e toxin, hematinic indices and oocysts shedding. Six litters from Stx2e-antibody-negative sows were included in the study, with 12 piglets in each litter. The piglets were randomly allocated into two groups on their second day of life (DOL): (T1) iron/anticoccidial treatment and vaccine were administered on different days, and (T2) products were administered simultaneously. Blood samples were collected to determine the levels of serum-neutralising antibodies, haemoglobin and haematocrit. Faecal matter was examined for the presence of oocysts of Cystoisospora suis. No differences were found between the two groups in terms of the development of neutralising antibodies. The levels of haemoglobin and haematocrit were lower (p < 0.05 and p = 0.08, respectively) when iron/anticoccidial treatment and vaccine were applied simultaneously but within the optimal range, based on current interpretive criteria for IDA. Oocysts were not detected in the faecal samples from the animals in either group. In conclusion, we found that, under the conditions of our study, the efficacy of OD vaccination and iron/anticoccidial treatment was not affected by the simultaneous use.