Microbial Flora Research Articles

Efficacy of radial incision combined with tunnel floating line drainage in the treatment of high posterior horseshoe anal fistula and perianal flora: Randomized control trial.

Due to the high prevalence of posterior horseshoe anal fistula and causing numerous complications, this study aimed to investigate the clinical effect of radial incision combined with tunnel floating line drainage (RCTD) and arc incision internal drainage in the treatment of the disease and the influence on perianal flora. Ninety-six subjects treated with high posterior horseshoe anal fistula were stochastically assigned to a joint group (RCTD), and control group (arc incision internal drainage). The operation-related conditions, complication rate, anal function, and recurrence rate of 6 months after operation were compared, and perianal secretions were collected before operation and 1 day after operation to detect the changes of microbial flora. After operation, it was corroborated notable difference between joint group and control group in operation time, intraoperative blood loss, wound healing time, visual analogue scale score 6 hours after operation and phase I cure rate. Chi square test analysis showed notable difference between control group (27.08%) and joint group (10.40%) in incidence of complications, in terms of number of pathogens detected around anus, significantly smaller of the incremental change for the joint subgroup versus the control subgroup 1 day after operation. RCTD can be the best choice for patients with high posterior horseshoe anal fistula. This operation method has the advantages of short operation time, less trauma, fewer complications, fast recovery of anal function, and can also reduce perianal pathogenic bacteria infection.

Effects of Polyvinyl Chloride Microplastics on the Reproductive System, Intestinal Structure, and Microflora in Male and Female Mice

The pervasive use of plastics in numerous industrial sectors has resulted in the circulation of microplastics across diverse ecosystems and food chains, giving rise to mounting concerns regarding their potential adverse impacts on biological systems and the environment. The objective of this experiment was to investigate the distinct effects of microplastic-polyvinyl chloride (PVC) exposure on the reproductive system, intestinal tissue structure, and intestinal microbial flora of both male and female mice. A total of 24 4-week-old Kunming mice were randomly assigned to one of four groups: male control group (CM), female control group (CF), male PVC test group (PVCM), and female PVC test group (PVCF) (n = 6). The findings revealed that in terms of the reproductive system, the PVCM group exhibited an impaired testicular structure with an irregular arrangement and a significant reduction in spermatogonia, spermatocytes, and spermatozoa within the seminiferous tubules (p < 0.01). The PVCF group exhibited a notable decrease in ovarian follicles (p < 0.01), accompanied by a reduction in uterus volume, fallopian tube volume, and muscle layer thickness, all of which also decreased significantly (p < 0.01). In comparison to the control groups, exposure to PVC resulted in a reduction in the width and height of the intestinal villi, accompanied by an increase in crypt depth. This led to a significant alteration in the ratio of villus height to crypt depth (V/C) (p < 0.01). Moreover, a reduction in microbial species diversity was observed within both the PVCM and PVCF groups; additionally, it was accompanied by contrasting changes in relative abundance and functional gene profiles among the major intestinal flora constituents. In summary, the findings indicate that PVC induces damage to both male and female mice reproductive and digestive systems, further exhibiting notable sex-dependent effects on mouse intestinal microflora composition, which correlates significantly with its impact on reproductive organs.

Evaluation of the antimicrobial activity of chemical and herbal toothpastes on selected clinical microbial oral flora

Background: Microbes are most commonly found associated with oral diseases. Globally, researchers along with the world Health Organization (WHO) suggested that this could be due to poor oral health and encourage all individuals to practice good oral hygiene using daily oral health products. The study aimed to determine the antimicrobial effects of toothpastes, as acclaimed by the manufacturers, to selected microbial flora involved in oral infections. Methodology: The antimicrobial activity of 6 toothpastes (3 herbal and 3 chemical) was tested against 3 clinical microbial isolates; Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of each toothpaste determined for each microbial isolate using the broth dilution method. Results: Colgate exhibited the highest inhibitory activity against S. aureus with respective MIC and MBC of 125mg/ml and 125mg/ml, followed by Oral-B with MIC and MBC of 125mg/ml and 500mg/ml, Dabur herbal with MIC and MBC of 250mg/ml and 500mg/ml, and Longrich with MIC of 500mg/ml and MBC of 1000mg/ml. Colgate and CloseUp exhibited highest inhibitory activity against E. coli with respective MIC and MBC of 125mg/ml and 500mg/ml, followed by Dabur herbal with MIC of 500mg/ml but no MBC. Colgate exhibited the highest inhibitory activity against C. albicans with respective MIC and MBC of 125mg/ml and 500mg/ml, followed by CloseUp with MIC of 500mg/ml, Longrich with MIC of 500mg/ml and MBC of 1000mg/ml, and oral-B with MIC of 500mg/ml but no MBC. Longrich and Oral-B exhibited no MIC/MBC against E. coli while Gavia charcoal exhibited no MIC/MBC against all the 3 microbial isolates at the concentrations used in the assay.Conclusion: The results obtained showed that chemically formulated toothpastes (Colgate, CloseUp and Oral-B) had higher inhibitory activity on microbial isolates than herbal toothpastes (Longrich, Dabur herbal and Gavia charcoal). This supports the manufacturers claim for the chemical toothpastes used, however, the herbal toothpastes showed little or no inhibitory effects on the microbial flora.

Sex-Dependent Rhizosphere Microbial Dynamics and Function in Idesia polycarpa through Floral and Fruit Development

Male Idesia polycarpa, which display distinct morphological and physiological traits, exhibit greater adaptability to stressful environments than females. However, the connection between this adaptability and rhizosphere processes remains unclear. Here, we investigate the differences in root bacterial community structures between male and female plants at different developmental stages, identifying bacterial strains associated with plant sex through functional predictions. This study aims to inform the optimal allocation of male and female plants during cultivation and provide a theoretical basis for sex identification and breeding. Samples from seven-year-old male and female plants were collected during the flowering (May) and fruit ripening (October) stages. Rhizosphere nutrient content and bacterial diversity were analyzed using Illumina high-throughput sequencing technology. The results demonstrate that total nitrogen (TN), total carbon (TC), and available potassium (AK) varied between sexes at different times. No significant differences between male and female plants were observed in the Shannon, Simpson, and Chao1 indexes during the flowering period. However, the Chao1 and Shannon indexes were significantly higher at fruit maturity in male rather than female plants. The predominant phyla of rhizosphere bacteria were Pseudomonadota, Acidobacteriota, and Actinomycetes. Interestingly, from flowering to fruit ripening, the dominant phyla in both male and female plants shifted from Actinomycetes to Pseudomonadota. A significant correlation was observed between pH and AK and rhizosphere bacteria (p < 0.05), with metabolism being the main functional difference. This study provides preliminary insights into the functional predictions and analyses of bacteria associated with Idesia polycarpa. The above findings lay the groundwork for further investigation into the sex-specific differences in microbial flora across different developmental stages, elucidating the mechanisms underlying flora changes and offering theoretical support for the high-quality management of Idesia polycarpa.

Impact of sterile gloving during proximal manipulation of central line catheter hub: the multicenter observational study CleanHandPROX

BackgroundPatients with central lines face an increased risk of developing bacteremia. Preventing late-onset catheter-related infections relies on implementing various measures during manipulations of the catheter hub of central lines (e.g., during connections, disconnections, blood withdrawals, pulsed rinses, or injections performed at the first connection after the central catheter). French guidelines include, among these measures, the requirement to put on sterile gloves immediately before proximal manipulation to help prevent contamination of the catheter hub during preparation. To our knowledge, no study has reported compliance with wearing sterile gloves during these manipulations, nor the impact of not wearing sterile gloves on the cleanliness of the fingers of healthcare workers (HCWs) just before manipulating the connectors.MethodsWe conducted a two-part study to assess compliance with sterile gloving and to provide direct microbiological evidence of bacterial contamination on HCWs’ hands immediately before the manipulation of central lines when sterile gloving is not used. First, the use of sterile gloves was observed during proximal manipulations of central lines using a standardized grid. Second, we examined the microbial flora present on the fingers of each observed HCW just before proximal manipulation.ResultsA total of 260 HCWs from 35 healthcare institutions were observed during proximal manipulation. The HCWs were distributed into three groups: 188 used sterile gloves (72%), 23 used nonsterile gloves (9%), and 49 did not wear gloves (19%). The swabbing of the fingertips revealed microbial cultures from 72 samples (28%). A total of 97 microorganisms were identified, all of which are well-recognized agents responsible for catheter-related bacteremia, predominantly coagulase-negative staphylococci (n = 36) and Bacillus sp. (n = 31). Fingertip contamination was lower for HCWs wearing sterile gloves (27/188; 14%) than for those wearing nonsterile gloves (12/23; 52%) or not wearing gloves (33/49; 67%) (p < 0.001). The contaminants were similar across the three groups.ConclusionsOur data support the positive impact of sterile gloving in ensuring clean fingertips during proximal manipulation of central lines, a key measure in preventing late-onset catheter-related bacteremia. The contamination of sterile gloves in one out of seven HCWs highlights the need for a clean care environment and minimal contact with the patient’s skin and surroundings during proximal manipulation.

Effectiveness of a new commercial ocular spray containing Biosecur in reducing conjunctival microbial flora as surgical prophylaxis in patients undergoing cataract surgery

IntroductionThis study is aimed to evaluate the antiseptic activity of a new ophthalmic spray containing Biosecur citrus extract as a preoperative prophylactic treatment in patients undergoing cataract intervention.MethodsA prospective, multicenter study was conducted. Patients applied Oftasecur spray on the eye scheduled for surgery, three times daily for 3 days before surgery. Conjunctival swabs were performed before and after the treatment. Qualitative and quantitative microbiological analyses were assessed.ResultsHundred and forty-seven patients (M: F = 76:71; mean age 70.74 ± 9.41 years) were enrolled. 58.5% of patients presented detectable microbial loads in the eye to be operated, before treatment. Most predominant bacterial species were: Staphylococcus epidermidis, coagulase-negative Staphylococci and Staphylococcus aureus. Patients were divided into three subgroups, according to the microbial loads measured at baseline: lower than 10 CFU/ml (41.7%), between 10 and 100 CFU/ml (31.7%), equal or greater than 100 CFU/ml (26.6%). A twofold reduction in positive patients who received Oftasecur: 44 eyes (51.2%) resulted in negative after ocular treatment. A significant reduction in bacterial loads was observed (p < 0.001). No ocular adverse reactions were recorded.ConclusionOftasecur spray effectively reduced conjunctival bacterial burden. It may represent a proper and safe antiseptic adjuvant treatment in patients undergoing cataract surgery.

The impact of environmental factors on aetiopathogenesis and clinical manifestations of Behçet's syndrome.

Behçet's syndrome (BS) is a rare multisystem vasculitis involving blood vessels of any size. BS aetiology is still unclear to date, and the heterogeneity of clinical expression among ethnics and genders make early diagnosis challenging. However, so far, considerable efforts have been made toward the understanding of BS, leading researchers to agree that the coexistence of some environmental triggers and a genetical susceptibility both underlie BS aetiopathogenesis. In particular, viral agents, oral microbial flora, and mucosal microbiota have been widely explored in this regard, but still no specific microorganism has been definitely linked to the disease aetiology. Likewise, the concept that some environmental factors may play a role in BS clinical presentation has emerged based on the growing evidence that disease severity is usually higher in male patients, and that diet and fatigue may be involved in disease recurrence, especially in mucocutaneous manifestations. Moreover, smoke cessation is acknowledged as a risk factor for oral ulcerations, although the underlying mechanism is still not clear. All those environmental factors play their effects through epigenetic mechanisms. The aim of this review is to discuss the evidence on the role of environmental factors in BS aetiopathogenesis and clinical course.

TEMPORARY REMOVAL: Exploring the potential of reconstructed human epithelial tissue models for safety assessment of intraoral medical devices

Medical devices are integral to a wide array of medical interventions and are increasingly utilized in both clinical and home settings. Within the oral cavity, intraoral medical devices are employed for various applications, to improve quality of life and maintain oral health and hygiene. However, the dynamic and complex environment of the oral cavity, characterized by the influence of factors, such as saliva composition, fluctuating pH, and microbial flora presents a challenge to ensure the safety of end-users. In this paper, we investigate the feasibility of utilization of 3D reconstructed human tissue models for the assessment of biocompatibility of intraoral medical devices. Building upon experiences drawn from the development and validation of ISO 10993-23 and from the development of a protocol for ocular irritation and photo-irritation, we suggest a new protocol for buccal mucosa irritation testing. The methodology is based on the viability assessment and analysis of cytokine release into media. By addressing intraoral medical devices biocompatibility testing, we aim to contribute to the advancement of biocompatibility assessment methodologies and increase the applicability of ISO 10993-23.

A Case of Lautropia mirabilis Infection in a Lung Transplant Patient and a Review of the Literature

Lautropia mirabilis is an opportunistic pathogen that typically causes intestinal and oral infections when the body’s immune system is compromised or the microbial flora is imbalanced. Respiratory infections caused by Lautropia mirabilis are extremely rare. The symptoms and severity of Lautropia mirabilis infection may vary depending on individual differences and the site of infection. Through a review of relevant literature and this case study, it has been observed that Lautropia mirabilis may also cause pulmonary infectious diseases, and in immunocompromised patients, it can lead to severe infections, potentially resulting in death.

Impact of diabetes mellitus on endodontic treatment outcomes

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder that affects various systemic functions, including oral health. Its impact on endodontic treatment outcomes has become a significant concern for dental practitioners. The relationship between DM and endodontic outcomes is complex, involving several pathophysiological mechanisms. Hyperglycemia leads to the formation of advanced glycation end-products, causing vascular dysfunction and impaired blood supply to the pulp, which exacerbates pulpal inflammation and increases the risk of necrosis. Additionally, chronic low-grade inflammation and an impaired immune response in diabetic patients contribute to a higher susceptibility to infections, delayed healing, and compromised tissue repair after endodontic procedures. Diabetic patients often experience lower success rates and prolonged recovery following endodontic treatment due to these systemic challenges. Reduced bone healing, persistent periapical lesions, and altered microbial flora are common complications that can hinder treatment success. Effective management of endodontic treatment in diabetic patients requires a multifaceted approach that includes strict glycemic control, the use of enhanced antimicrobial strategies, and the adoption of minimally invasive techniques to reduce tissue trauma. Additionally, patient education and close monitoring of the healing process are essential for minimizing complications. Understanding the pathophysiological interactions between diabetes and pulpal inflammation, as well as the factors that influence healing and success rates, is crucial for optimizing endodontic care in diabetic patients. By addressing both systemic and local factors, dental practitioners can improve the prognosis of endodontic treatment and ensure better outcomes for patients with diabetes. Ongoing research into the mechanisms underlying these complications will further enhance the ability of clinicians to manage endodontic cases effectively in this growing patient population.

Basic principles of treatment and follow-up of children with acute odontogenic infection and insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus

The purpose of the study is to substantiate the basic principles of treatment and clinical dental observation of children with acute odontogenic inflammatory disease and insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus as an accompanying disease. Material and methods. A medical examination was conducted for 213 children who were treated at the St. Petersburg city children’s hospital of K.A. Raukhus of. The dental status of children with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and children of the control group without concomitant diseases was assessed using the Fedorov-Volodkina index, the KPU index and analysis of the caries intensity according to the T.F. Vinogradova table, periodontal conditions according to the PMA index (papillary-marginal-alveolar). The state of microhemocirculation of periodontal tissues was also assessed using Doppler ultrasound and the use of a reflex cold test. In children diagnosed with “Acute odontogenic osteomyelitis of the jaws,” laboratory blood parameters, the composition of the microbial flora of wound discharge, and the length of hospitalization were studied. Results. Based on the data obtained, an algorithm for treatment and dispensary dental observation of children with diabetes was presented. The detection of diabetes mellitus in children of any age should be accompanied by increased attention to the dental health of these patients. If teeth affected by caries are identified during a preventive examination, immediate treatment is required. It is necessary to ensure constant follow-up of the child by an endocrinologist. Doppler examination of the microhemocirculatory bed vessels of the mucosa of the alveolar process of the jaw revealed that an adequate response to a reflex cold test was detected only in the control group patients, those who do not have insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. With the development of acute odontogenic osteomyelitis of the jaw in children suffering from insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, hospitalization is necessary when the first clinical symptoms of the inflammatory process appear. Immediately after hospitalization and immediate surgical sanitation of a purulent focus of infection in the oral cavity, drug therapy should be started: antibacterial, infusion, symptomatic, as well as insulin therapy. The results of this study are especially relevant in the treatment of children with a duration of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus of more than 5 years and a decompensated course of endocrine disease. Conclusions. The results of the study allowed us to expand our understanding of the impact of diabetes on the oral health of children, to establish risk factors for the development of acute odontogenic osteomyelitis of the jaws in children of different age categories with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, as well as the characteristics of the course of odontogenic osteomyelitis of the jaws in each of the cases. Based on the identified features, the principles of diagnosis and treatment of acute odontogenic osteomyelitis of the jaws in children with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus have been formulated.

Study of hygienic hand disinfection of staff and dental students at the Medical University&amp;nbsp;– Plovdiv

&lt;b&gt;Introduction:&lt;/b&gt; Transient microbial flora on the hands of medical personnel is a prerequisite for healthcare-associated infections. Unlike permanent this micro flora can be removed by washing and disinfection. The hands of the dental staff are factor number one in the transfer of microorganisms: from patient to patient as well as on objects from the dental environment.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;b&gt;The aim&lt;/b&gt; of the present study was to microbiologically examine hand washes of 5th year dental students and medical staff before starting work with a patient in order to evaluate the quality of hygienic disinfection performed.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;b&gt;Methodology:&lt;/b&gt; The hands of a total of 115 doctors and students from the Faculty of Dental Medicine of the Medical University of Plovdiv were wiped with a sterile swab after treatment with a disinfectant. Isolates were identified to species using Vitek MS and MALDI-TOF technology.&lt;br /&gt; &amp;nbsp;&lt;b&gt;Results: &lt;/b&gt;Coagulase-negative staphylococci with a microbial number of 10&lt;sup&gt;3&lt;/sup&gt;-10&lt;sup&gt;4&lt;/sup&gt; were found to have the highest microbial count (70%). 9% of the samples with coagulase-negative staphylococci had microbial count ≥10&lt;sup&gt;5&lt;/sup&gt;. The most common isolates detected were: &lt;i&gt;Staphylococcus hominis&lt;/i&gt;, &lt;i&gt;Staphylococcus epidermidis&lt;/i&gt; and &lt;i&gt;Micrococcus luteus&lt;/i&gt;.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;b&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/b&gt; The presence of coagulase-negative staphylococci in a high microbial count, enterococci and representatives of &lt;i&gt;Bacillus simplex&lt;/i&gt; is undesirable, especially in immunosuppressed patients. These results highlight the need to increase knowledge about hand disinfection and its actual application before working with a patient.

Investigating the Relationship between Awareness, Beliefs, and Performance of Operating Room Students in Hand Hygiene with Analysis of Microbial Flora on Hands during the COVID-19 Pandemic

BackgroundHand hygiene compliance among hospital staff has always been recognized as an effective method in controlling and reducing hospital-acquired infections. Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, hand hygiene has emerged as one of the effective preventive measures against this disease, leading to increased awareness and concerns. This study aims to examine the awareness, beliefs, and practices of operating room students regarding hand hygiene, by analyzing the microbial flora on their hands during the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective is to assess the level of hand hygiene compliance among students, who will be future hospital employees. AimThis study aimed to investigate the correlation between the level of awareness, belief, and performance of operating room students regarding hand hygiene with the analysis of microbial hand flora during the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose was to examine the compliance with hand hygiene among students, who will be future hospital employees, during this pandemic. MethodologyThe present study included a sample of 92 students majoring in Operating Room who were enrolled in the research through a census. The data collection tool consisted of a questionnaire to assess the students' awareness, beliefs, and performance regarding hand hygiene and analysis of microbial flora on hands. Standard culture media including Blood Agar, Brilliant Green Agar, and Eosin Methylene Blue were used for isolating microorganisms. Microorganism identification was performed using biochemical tests. ResultsThe results of this study indicate that out of the participants, 65 were girls and 27 were boys with an average age of 21.9±2.3 years. The mean scores for awareness, belief, and performance were 8.9, 72.3, and 64.2, respectively. Analysis of microbiological flora also revealed that the highest growth microorganisms were epidermidis bacteria (26.6%), coagulase-negative staphylococci bacteria (22.9%), and streptococcus bacteria (21.2%). Discussion and ConclusionBased on the results of this study, operating room students have shown a high level of awareness, belief, and performance during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the minimal growth of bacteria in the conducted culture samples confirms this finding. Due to the limited availability of studies, it is recommended that further research be conducted in this area.

Competition for nutrient niches within the apple blossom microbiota antagonizes the initiation of fire blight infection.

Changes in the plant microbiota composition are intimately associated with the health of the plant, but factors controlling the microbial community in flowers are poorly understood. In this study, we used apple flowers and fire blight as a model system to investigate the effects of floral microbiota and microbial competition on disease development and suppression. To compare changes in microbial flora with the RNA expression patterns of plants, the flower samples were collected in three different flowering stages (Bud, Popcorn, and Full-bloom). Using advanced sequencing technology, we analyzed the data and conducted both in vitro and in vivo experiments to validate our findings. Our results show that the Erwinia amylovora use arabinogalactan, which is secreted on the flowers, for early colonization of apple flowers. Pantoea agglomerans was more competitive for arabinogalactan than E. amylovora. Additionally, P. agglomerans suppressed the expression of virulence factors of E. amylovora by using arabinose, which is a major component of arabinogalactan, which induces virulence gene expression. The present data provide new insights into developing control strategies for diverse plant diseases, including fire blight, by highlighting the importance of nutrients in disease development or suppression.

Clinical significance of the genetically variable landscape of the gut microbiome in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus patients

BackgroundThe composition of the gut microbiome has been recorted to be strongly associated with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), but mutational characterization of the microbiome in patients with GDM has been overlooked. Here, we revealed the genetic variation landscape of the gut microbiome and assessed its clinical significance in a cohort of patients with GDM. MethodsWe employed a macrogenomic dataset made up of a discovery cohort of 54 cases and a validation cohort of 220 cases to screen for high-abundance microbial flora and identified single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and insertions/deletions (indels). Subsequently, we analyzed the mutation spectra of genomes of the intestinal flora by using the previously identified SNVs and identified mutation signatures. Additionally, we utilized the Random Forest algorithm to identify key differential SNVs and elucidated their biological functions and associations with the clinicopathological parameters of GDM. ResultsWe screened 15 key microbial flora and found that the GDM group had more SNVs and indels in the intestinal flora than the control group, with a significant increase in C > T and T > C base mutations and were more susceptible to sequence mutations. Compared to the control group, the GDM group underwent a more significant evolution, as evidenced by the presence of a unique mutational spectrum and mutational characteristics. Random Forest algorithm analysis showed that the combined characterization of five gut microbial species and 21 SNV-related markers was effective in distinguishing between GDM and control subjects in both discovery (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.86) and validation (AUC = 0.73) sets. These markers also revealed that GDM is strongly associated with sphingolipids, galactose, and proteins containing the DUF structural domain. ConclusionsThe GDM intestinal flora has unique mutational features that correlate significantly with clinicopathological involvement and may be involved in the development of the disease.

Long-Term Exposure to Polystyrene Microspheres and High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity in Mice: Evaluating a Role for Microbiota Dysbiosis.

Microplastics (MPs) have become a global environmental problem, emerging as contaminants with potentially alarming consequences. However, long-term exposure to polystyrene microspheres (PS-MS) and its effects on diet-induced obesity are not yet fully understood. We aimed to investigate the effect of PS-MS exposure on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity and underlying mechanisms. In the present study, C57BL/6J mice were fed a normal diet (ND) or a HFD in the absence or presence of PS-MS via oral administration for 8 wk. Antibiotic depletion of the microbiota and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) were performed to assess the influence of PS-MS on intestinal microbial ecology. We performed 16S rRNA sequencing to dissect microbial discrepancies and investigated the dysbiosis-associated intestinal integrity and inflammation in serum. Compared with HFD mice, mice fed the HFD with PS-MS exhibited higher body weight, liver weight, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) activity scores, and mass of white adipose tissue, as well as higher blood glucose and serum lipid concentrations. Furthermore, 16S rRNA sequencing of the fecal microbiota revealed that mice fed the HFD with PS-MS had greater -diversity and greater relative abundances of Lachnospiraceae, Oscillospiraceae, Bacteroidaceae, Akkermansiaceae, Marinifilaceae, Deferribacteres, and Desulfovibrio, but lower relative abundances of Atopobiaceae, Bifidobacterium, and Parabacteroides. Mice fed the HFD with PS-MS exhibited lower expression of MUC2 mucin and higher levels of lipopolysaccharide and inflammatory cytokines [tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1, and IL-17A] in serum. Correlation analyses revealed that differences in the microbial flora of mice exposed to PS-MS were associated with obesity. Interestingly, microbiota-depleted mice did not show the same PS-MS-associated differences in Muc2 and Tjp1 expression in the distal colon, expression of inflammatory cytokines in serum, or obesity outcomes between HFD and HFD + PS-MS. Importantly, transplantation of feces from HFD + PS-MS mice to microbiota-depleted HFD-fed mice resulted in a lower expression of mucus proteins, higher expression of inflammatory cytokines, and obesity outcomes, similar to the findings in HFD + PS-MS mice. Our findings provide a new gut microbiota-driven mechanism for PS-MS-induced obesity in HFD-fed mice, suggesting the need to reevaluate the adverse health effects of MPs commonly found in daily life, particularly in susceptible populations. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP13913.

Microbial Load and Antibiotic Resistance Pattern of Microflora Isolated from Smoked Catfish and Mackerel Sold in Ghanaian Markets: A Potential Health Threat

Introduction: Smoked fish, particularly catfish and mackerel, plays a vital role in the Ghanaian diet, serving as a rich source of protein and essential nutrients. Smoking is a traditional preservation method widely used to extend the shelf life of fish, enhance flavor, and make it more palatable. However, despite the advantages of smoking, the process does not entirely eliminate the risk of microbial contamination, which can have significant health implications. Aim of Study: This study examined the microbial flora contamination of the smoked fish sold in Ghanaian markets. Methodology: The research was conducted in three markets: Kejetia Market, Ejura Market and Ejusu. A total of 75 different smoke-dried fish including Cat fish (Clarias gariepinus) and Mackerel (Scomber scombrus) from the markets. The fish samples were collected and kept in sterile polythene bags and transported to the laboratory for microbial analysis. Result: The study revealed that out of 75 samples analyzed, approximately 23% (n=17) were found to be contaminated with microorganisms. Escherichia coli had the highest occurrence, detected in 35.2% (6/17) of the total samples. Additionally, Shigella flexneri and Salmonella arizonae were each found in 17.6% (3/17) of the total samples. Klebsiella oxytoca was 11.7% (2/17), and Enterobacter aerogenes, Streptobacillus monilliforms, and Fusobacterium necrophorus each constituted 5.8% (1/17) of the total samples. All the identified isolates were susceptible to gentamycin (100%), and all the isolates were resistant to lincomycin (100%). Overall resistance rates for each antibiotic for all the organisms identified are lincomycin (100%), penicillin (67%), ampicillin (81%), erythromycin (65%), tetracycline (63%), neomycin (61%), cloxaxillin (43%), kanamycin (24%), and sulphamethaxole (13%). All the isolates have 100% resistance to at least three antibiotics used except for Salmonella arizonae. Conclusion: To Address these findings, a collaborative effort is required among regulatory authorities, food producers, and healthcare providers to implement stringent food safety protocols and mitigate the risks associated with contaminated fish consumption.

Effects of High-Grain Diet on Performance, Ruminal Fermentation, and Rumen Microbial Flora of Lactating Holstein Dairy Cows.

The objectives of the current study were to evaluate the fluctuations in production performance, rumen fermentation, and microbial community in lactating dairy cows fed a high-grain diet (HG). In this study, 16 healthy Holstein lactating dairy cattle with similar milk yields of 16.80 ± 4.30 kg/d, days in milk 171.44 ± 23.25 days, and parity 2.2 ± 1.5 times were selected and randomly allocated into two groups. One group was fed a low-grain diet (LG; 40% concentrate, DM basis; n = 8), and the other group was fed a high-grain diet (HG; 60% concentrate, DM basis; n = 8). The experiment lasted 6 weeks, including 1 week for adaptation. The experimental results showed that the milk fat content in the milk of lactating cows in the HG group was significantly reduced (p < 0.05), and the milk urea nitrogen (MUN) content showed an increasing trend (0.05 < p < 0.10) compared with the LG group. Compared with the LG group, rumen fluid pH was significantly decreased after feeding a high-grain diet, and contents of total volatile fatty acids (TVFA), acetate, propionate, and butyrate were significantly increased (p < 0.05). The acetate/propionate significantly decreased (p < 0.05). HG group significantly increased the abundance of Prevotella and Bacteroides in rumen fluid while significantly reducing the abundance of Methanobrevibacter and Lachnospiraceae ND3007_group (p < 0.05). Microorganisms with LDA scores > 2 were defined as unique, with the bacterial genus Anaerorhabdus_furcosa_group identified as a biomarker for the LG group, and the unique bacterial genus in the HG group were Prevotella, Stenotrophomonas, and Xanthomonadaceae. The prediction results of microbial function showed that a total of 18 KEGG differential pathways were generated between the two treatment groups, mainly manifested in metabolic pathways, signal transduction, and the immune system. In conclusion, the HG group promoted rumen fermentation by altering the microbial composition of lactating cows. Our findings provide a theoretical basis for the rational use of high-grain diets to achieve high yields in intensive dairy farming.

Study on the prebiotic effects of insoluble crude and fine fibers of wheat bran after simulated digestion in vitro

This study aims to evaluate the probiotic effects of insoluble crude and fine fibers of wheat bran on the intestine after simulated in vitro digestion. It was found that the particle size distribution of modified fine wheat bran (MWB) was significantly smaller than that of natural crude wheat bran (NWB). MWB had a looser texture and more porous structure. The dry matter digestibility and organic matter digestibility of MWB were 58.60 % and 59.05 %, which were significantly higher than that of NWB (53.64 % and 54.13 %). More SDF and free polyphenol were released from the MWB. At 12 h of fermentation, the SDF content of the MWB was 3.76 g/100 g, significantly higher than NWB (3.40 g/100 g), and the free polyphenol was 9.43 mg/g, significantly higher than NWB (9.01 mg/g). The content of short-chain fatty acids including formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyrate acid and valerate acid in the samples were significantly higher in MWB than in NWB. Analysis of the microbial flora structure and diversity of the fermentation samples revealed that the relative abundance of Lactobacillus was higher in the MWB group, and was closer to the oligofructose group (FOS) in terms of functional predictions.

Use of genomics & proteomics in studying lipase producing microorganisms & its application

In biotechnological applications, lipases are recognized as the most widely utilized and versatile enzymes, pivotal in biocatalytic processes, predominantly produced by various microbial species. Utilizing omics technology, natural sources can be meticulously screened to find microbial flora which are responsible for oil production. Lipases are versatile biocatalysts. They are used in a variety of bioconversion reactions and are receiving a lot of attention because of the quick development of enzyme technology and its usefulness in industrial operations. This article offers recent insights into microbial lipase sources, including fungi, bacteria, and yeast, alongside traditional and modern methods of purification such as precipitation, immunopurification and chromatographic separation. Additionally, it explores innovative methods like the reversed micellar system, aqueous two-phase system (ATPS), and aqueous two-phase flotation (ATPF). The article deals with the use of microbial lipases in a variety of sectors, including the food, textile, leather, cosmetics, paper, detergent, while also critically analyzing lipase-producing microbes. Moreover, it highlights the role of lipases in biosensors, biodiesel production, tea processing, bioremediation, and racemization. This review provides the concept of the use of omics technique in the mechanism of screening of microbial species those are capable of producing lipase and also find the potential applications.