Total Staphylococci Research Articles

Microbiological and Antibiogram Profiling of Frozen Foods and Ice Cream Products from Super-Shops of Dhaka, Bangladesh

The current study was conducted to assess the microbiological loads and antibiotic resistance patterns among 20 frozen food and ice cream samples that were gathered from multiple super-shops in Dhaka, Bangladesh. A total of 20 samples (11 frozen food samples and 9 ice cream samples) were collected from different supershops in Dhaka, Bangladesh during the period from July 2024 to September 2024. Microbiological analyses were performed to determine the total viable bacterial count (TVBC), total coliform count (TCC), and total staphylococcal count (TSC). The highest total viable bacterial count (2.12×109 cfu/g), highest coliform count (3.7×107 cfu/g), and highest staphylococcal count (2.04×108 cfu/g) were found in the frozen fish sample. Bacteria were isolated and identified based on their morphological and biochemical characteristics. While E. coli and Klebsiella spp. were observed in seven samples, Staphylococcus aureus was identified in twelve. Additionally, different antimicrobial agents were used to determine the isolates' susceptibility towards them. Ciprofloxacin, Imipenem, and Gentamicin have been demonstrated to be the most effective drugs against each isolate. All of the Klebsiella isolates exhibited sensitivity to Chloramphenicol, whereas most of the E. coli isolates were sensitive to Erythromycin, Chloramphenicol, and Nalidixic acid. However, erythromycin and amoxicillin were found to be less effective against Staphylococcus aureus isolates. The presence of several different microorganisms suggests that the majority of frozen food samples did not meet public health standards. These frozen foods, contaminated with multi-antibiotic-resistant microorganisms, have the potential to transmit food-borne diseases. Stam. J. Microbiol. 2024; 14(1): 22-27

Physiochemical and Microbial Quality of Melon and Bush Mango Seeds and Milled Products in Local Markets ln Rivers State,Nigeria.

Risk of food borne infection contamination of food, in Africa is increased due to environmental, agronomic and socio-economic factors. This study assesses the microbial quality of melon and bush mango displayed in the local markets, aiming to provide valuable insights into the safety and quality of these widely consumed food products. Standard procedure for microbiological and proximate analysis were employed. The heterotrophic bacteria count ranged from 8.5 x 10⁵ cfu/g to 1.35 x10⁶ cfu/g. The total staphylococcus count ranged from 1.2 x 10³ cfu/g to 4.35 x 10³ cfu/g. The coliform count ranged from 2.8 x 10⁴ to 7 x 10⁵, Total Samonella count ranged from 4 x 10² cfu/g to 1.5 x 10³ cfu/g and Fungi count 6.5 x 10² cfu/g to 2.5 x 10³ cfu/g. Morphological and Biochemical characterization of heterotrophic bacteria isolated from both melon and bush mango identified nine genera, including Staphylococcus (14.6%) Bacillus (20%), Corynebacterium (5.6%) Enterobacter (4.4%), Micrococcus ( 3.3%) Pseudomonas (12.2%), Escherichia coli (13.3%), Salmonella (11.1%) and Proteus (11.1%). Fungal species like Penicillium spp., Fusarium spp., Aspergillus flavus, Candida spp., Mucor spp., Saccharomyces sp., and Aspergillus niger were isolated from both seed and milled seeds samples of melon and bush mango. The frequency of occurrence revealed variations among bacterial isolates in melon and bush mango seeds. The most frequent fungal species included Candida spp. (9.4%) Aspergillus niger (20%) Mucor (9.4%), Fusarium (11.4%), Aspergillus flavus (9.4%), Penicillium (13.2%), Rhizopus spp (3.7%) and Saccharomyces (15%). Proximate and heavy metal analysis indicated variations in the composition of Carbohydrate (7.11%), Lipid (15.03%), Ash (1.89%), Moisture (7.31%), Protein (23.86%), Crude Fiber (12.66%), Lead (0.213 mg/kg), Copper (2.11mg/kg), calcium (0.49mg/kg) and Cadmium (0.0169mg/kg) in melon and bush mango, Carbohydrate (15.03%), Lipid (58.24%), Ash (1.74%), Moisture (10.48%), Protein (11.95%), Crude Fiber (2.64%), Lead (1.7903mg/kg), Copper (2.11mg/kg), calcium (0.148mg/kg) and Cadmium (0.000385mg/kg). The presence of heterotrophic bacteria in such ranges suggests potential differences in hygiene practices during cultivation, processing, and storage. Therefore; Implement stringent quality control measures during the production, processing, and storage of both melon and bush mango seed.

BACTERIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF SOME COMMERCIALLY SOLD YOGHURT IN UTURU, ABIA STATE, NIGERIA: A PRELIMINARY STUDY

A preliminary study was carried out to determine the bacteriological quality of commercial yogurt sold in Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria. This involved isolation, characterization and antibiotics susceptibility of bacteria isolated from some commercially sold yoghurt in Uturu. Five different brands of yoghurt coded A to E were microbiologically analyzed using standard microbiological methods. The total viable count ranged from 0.9×102 cfu/ml – 2.0x103 cfu/ml, coliform count ranged from 0.4×102 cfu/ml – 1.0×103 cfu/ml, total staphylococcal count ranged from 1.1×101 to 1.8×102. Bacterial isolated include Staphylococcus species, Streptococcus species, Bacillus species and Lactobacillus species. The antibiotics susceptibility pattern of the bacterial isolates proved that drovid had the highest zones of inhibition from 31.8±1.2 mm to 36.1±0.3 mm, followed by oflaxacin (29.5±0.1 mm to 35.0±0.8 mm). The presence of coliform and Staphylococcus in the yoghurt may be as a result of unclean water used in the production, contaminated milk and unhygienic condition of the handlers. It is recommended that yoghurt producers, sellers and handlers should ensure a high level of hygiene and avoid long exposure of yoghurt before selling to consumers.

OCCURRENCE OF VIRULENCE GENES OF Staphylococcus aureus AND Escherichia coli IN VENDED FOODS IN SELECTED MOTOR-PARKS IN OBIO/AKPOR, RIVERS STATE

The study aimed at evaluating the microbiological safety of vended foods in selected motor parks in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria. Forty-eight samples obtained from four motor parks (Choba, Rumuokoro, Eliozu and Oil-mill Park) were analyzed using standard microbiological methods for total heterotrophic bacteria count, virulent and antibiotic resistant profiles of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Total heterotrophic bacteria count ranged from 4.60 to 8.39 log10CFU/g. A total of 10 (20.83%) samples were positive for S. aureus while 14 (29.17%) were positive for E. coli. Total staphylococcal and Escherichia coli counts ranged from 4.89 to 7.01 and 2.70 to 5.31 log10cfu/g, respectively. Both bacteria were 100% resistant to augmentin. The confirmed E. coli showed varying resistant to cefixime (50%), ceftazidime (42.86%), cefuroxim (14.29%) and ofloxacin (7.14%); while S. aureus also showed varying resistant to erythromycin (10.00%), ceftriaxone (90.00%), cloxacillin (100.00%) and gentamycin (0.00%) The confirmed E. coli produced the expected bands for the E. coli attaching and effusing (eaeA), aggregative adherence fimbriae (aggR) and antimicrobial sensitivity testing (astA) virulence genes while S. aureus did not produce the expected bands with staphylococcal enterotoxin A (sea) and staphylococcal enterotoxin B (seb) genes. The detection of virulence gene bearing E. coli and multiple antibiotic resistant E. coli and S. aureus portends danger for commuters who patronizes these foods, hence the need for urgent public health interventions.

Bacteriological Analysis of Cow Milk (Nono) Sold Within Gusau Metropolis, Zamfara State

Fresh cow milk popularly called Nono was collected from ten (10) different sellers at different areas within Gusau metropolis and one control was collected directly from a lactating cow and transported immediately to Microbiology Laboratory of Federal University Gusau where they wereassessed for their bacteriological quality. The total bacteria viable count of the ten Nono samples ranged between 6.6 x105 to 2.7 x106 cfu/ml, the total coliforms count ranged between 4.2x105 to 2.2x106cfu/ml, the range of the total Staphylococcal count and total lactic acid bacterial count were 2.5x105 to 4.0x106 cfu/ml and 5.9x105 to 1.7x106 cfu/ml respectively. The control sample had total viable count of 5.6 x 103 cfu/ml, total staphylococcal count of 3.2 x 103 cfu/ml, total lactic acid bacteria count of 4.2 x 103 cfu/ml whereas the coliform count gotten was too few to count (TFTC). The isolates were identified based on their morphological characteristics, Gram's reactions and biochemical profiles and a total of seventy-four (74) bacterial isolates belonging to the genus Lactobacillus, Leuconostoc, Streptococcus, Micrococcus, Pediococcus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas, Proteus, Klebsiella, Enterobacter and Staphylococcus spp. were identified from the eleven samples analyzed. The presence of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Nono is very good as they are one of the most significant groups of probiotic which not only enhance lactose digestion but also stimulate the immune system, However, the presence of E. coli and the other enterobacteriaceae and Staphylococcus sp. is of public health concern because they can cause several diseases therefore it was concluded that the bacterial loads of the Nono samples were not satisfactory with the exception of the control which had organisms within the acceptable limit of 30,000/ml for raw milk. The presence of potential pathogenic bacteria in all of the Nono samples is an indication that the samples were contaminated and this can potentially cause diseases to the consumers, Hence the need for public enlightenment for handlers and producers of Nono to observe good manufacturing practices in production and storage of the product to avoid outbreak of infections associated with the organisms encountered in this study.

Microbial Contamination and Meat Handling Practices in Hawassa City Butcher Shops, Ethiopia.

Unsafe meat handling in butcher shops exacerbates microbial contamination, contributing to widespread food-related infections, particularly in developing countries like Ethiopia. In Ethiopia, microbial contamination in the meat supply chain is pervasive due to limited knowledge, inadequate hygiene practices, insufficient training, poor enforcement of food safety standards, and the absence of advanced diagnostic tools and regular microbial testing. This study aimed to assess the microbial load of meat, its contact surfaces, and meat handling practices of butcher shop workers in Hawassa city, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to April 2023 among butcher shop workers in Hawassa city, Ethiopia. One hundred forty-four (144) swab samples were collected, and the microbial load was evaluated by serial dilution method and counted using standard procedures. A total of 52 workers were interviewed to assess meat handling practices. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze survey and laboratory data. The findings of this study revealed that the levels of Total Plate Count, Enterobacteriaceae, and staphylococci from meat samples collected from the butchers were 6.14, 5.58, and 5.23, respectively. The levels of Total Plate Count, Enterobacteriaceae, and staphylococci in the swab samples collected from knives, chopping boards, and weighing boards were 5.66, 5.27, and 5.28; 5.61, 5.33, and 5.03; and 5.29, 4.97, and 4.91, respectively. In the butcher shops, 83% of the meat was exposed to flies without protection, and 64% of meat handling equipment was not disinfected. The Total Plate Count, Enterobacteriaceae and staphylococci levels in meat samples and swab samples collected from knives, chopping boards, and weighing boards were above acceptable levels. These findings suggest the presence of potential pathogenic microorganisms, likely due to poor personal hygiene of the workers, inadequate cleaning and sterilization in the butcher shops, and cross-contamination from sources, including paper money handled, and skin contact.

Microbiological Variations in Leachates from the Fez Controlled Landfill between the Post-COVID19 and Covid19 Periods (Morocco)

The aim of this work is to gain a better understanding of the bacterial load in the leachate from the controlled landfill in Fez by following a temporal evolution during the year 2021 just after the Covid19 pandemic and during the year 2020 marked by the Corvid19 period. The germs studied were total coliforms (TC), faecal coliforms (FC), faecal enterococci (FE), total aerobic mesophilic flora (AMF), staphylococci (Staph) and salmonella. The results show that the landfill has the highest concentration of all germs in the year 2021. This bacterial load intensifies in summer, as the number of residents has increased with the arrival of tourists, resulting in an increase in waste tonnage and a change in the quality of the leachate. In 2020, the citizens of the city of Fez were confined because of the COVID19 pandemic, tourism was limited in space and time which limited the tonnage of waste and influenced the bacterial load. These results revealed the poor microbiological quality of this leachate. The increase in germ concentrations during the summer season has an effect of evaporation of this leachate, which leads to an increase in the bacterial concentration. It is therefore urgent to properly manage this leachate.

Microbial assessment of poultry farm biosecurity. Proceeding of The First International Avian Influenza Summit, University of Arkansas- October 16-17, 2023”

Biosecurity may be defined as protection from pathogens or disease. This may include the separation of the flock from living vectors or inanimate objects called fomites. While prevention of host-specific and zoonotic diseases is important, the commercial poultry industry is already preoccupied with the challenges of day-to-day operations. The purpose of this project was to illustrate how surfaces that may seem clean are heavily contaminated with microorganisms that may be responsible for human and avian diseases. We also evaluated three common intervention strategies, including disposable boot covers, foot baths, and tire disinfection. Poultry environmental samples were collected at the Texas A\&M University Poultry Science Research Center, including fan shrouds, side air inlets, cool cell reservoirs, truck tires, truck floor mats, doorknobs, controller panels, a bioaerosol air sampler, and an impactor air sampler. A total of 30 samples were collected per sample type, which was homogenized, serially diluted, and spread plated onto agar media to culture total aerobes, Staphylococci, and coliform bacteria. 6.6 log10 colony-forming units cfu/cm2 of aerobic bacteria were found at the greatest concentration, followed by Staphylococci (5.6 log10 colony-forming units cfu/cm2) and coliforms (2 log10 colony-forming units cfu/cm2). This pattern was observed in most of the samples. Boot covers, foot baths, and tire disinfection were tested for efficacy. While disposable boot covers significantly reduced the number of aerobes, Staphylococci, and coliforms, as many as 300 microorganisms per cm2 still made it through to the inner boot cover. Disinfectants are commonly misused due to not properly clearing the surface prior to application or allowing the proper contact time. We found that while disinfection significantly reduced these indicator organisms, that reductions were only 10 to 100-fold, leaving many viable bacteria behind. Increased contact time from 3 seconds to 10 minutes resulted in significant reductions of aerobes and Staphylococcus. The tire wash data mirrored our foot bath data. Data was shared from previous laboratory and field trials. Less than 1% sterile poultry litter significantly reduced disinfectant efficacy across four product categories. Extended storage time of 30 weeks reduced product efficacy as well. We shared electron micrographs to illustrate how visually clean and smooth surfaces provide many hiding places for microbes, reducing disinfectant efficacy. While risk can never be reduced to zero, it may be reduced and controlled with good management practices. Cleaning and disinfection should follow a five-step process of dry cleaning, soap wash, rinse, drying, and finally disinfection. Labels should be read closely so that the product is used safely and effectively. While there are many viable products on the market, disinfecting a clean surface and following recommendations for contact time are very important to get the best results. Following best management practices such as reducing pest (insect/rodent) harborage and following your integrated pest management program will help reduce risk significantly.

Simultaneous stream assessment of antibiotics, bacteria, antibiotic resistant bacteria, and antibiotic resistance genes in an agricultural region of the United States

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is now recognized as a leading global threat to human health. Nevertheless, there currently is a limited understanding of the environment's role in the spread of AMR and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). In 2019, the U.S. Geological Survey conducted the first statewide assessment of antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB) and ARGs in surface water and bed sediment collected from 34 stream locations across Iowa. Environmental samples were analyzed for a suite of 29 antibiotics and plated on selective media for 15 types of bacteria growth; DNA was extracted from culture growth and used in downstream polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays for the detection of 24 ARGs. ARGs encoding resistance to antibiotics of clinical importance to human health and disease prevention were prioritized as their presence in stream systems has the potential for environmental significance. Total coliforms, Escherichia coli (E. coli), and staphylococci were nearly ubiquitous in both stream water and stream bed sediment samples, with enterococci present in 97 % of water samples, and Salmonella spp. growth present in 94 % and 67 % of water and bed sediment samples. Bacteria enumerations indicate that high bacteria loads are common in Iowa's streams, with 23 (68 %) streams exceeding state guidelines for primary contact for E. coli in recreational waters and 6 (18 %) streams exceeding the secondary contact advisory level. Although antibiotic-resistant E. coli growth was detected from 40 % of water samples, vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) and penicillinase-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colony growth was detected from nearly all water samples. A total of 14 different ARGs were detected from viable bacteria cells from 30 Iowa streams (88 %, n = 34). Study results provide the first baseline understanding of the prevalence of ARB and ARGs throughout Iowa's waterways and health risk potential for humans, wildlife, and livestock using these waterways for drinking, irrigating, or recreating.

The effect of long-pulsed 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser-assisted hair removal on some skin flora and pathogens: An in vivo study.

Background The effect of NDYag on normal skin flora and pathogenic microbes has not been studied. Objectives Evaluation of immediate (before versus after each session) and delayed (pre-first session versus pre-fourth session) antimicrobial effect of Nd:YAG laser-assisted hair removal. Methods Thirty females scheduled for axillary Nd:YAG laser hair removal were included. Skin swabs were collected from the vault of the dominant axilla before and after each of the four sessions. Bacteriological cultures were performed to record the counts of total aerobes, total anaerobes, lipophilic bacteria, total staphylococci, Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis), S. saprophyticus, S. hominis, and S. aureus. Reported changes in sweat odour and folliculitis (if present) were recorded. Results S.hominis was the predominant species in all subjects before and after all sessions. Counts of total aerobes, total anaerobes, lipophilic bacteria, total staphylococci, and S.hominis significantly decreased after all 4 sessions. A significant reduction was noted in the median colony counts before the fourth session as compared to the baseline count before the first session in total aerobes (278.9 versus 126.3 × 105 CFU/cm2, p = 0.003), total anaerobes (338.7 versus 103.7 × 105 CFU/cm2, p = 0.002) and total staphylococci (248.5 versus 105.0 × 105 CFU/cm2, p = 0.004). Most subjects reported worsened or unchanged axillary sweat odour. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between sweat odour and the counts of total aerobes (r = 0.433, p = 0.017), total anaerobes (r = 0.377, p = 0.040), total staphylococci (r = 0.383, p = 0.036) and S.hominis (r = 0.497, p = 0.005) ; lower counts were associated with a worsened odour. Limitations Small sample size; few laser sessions; short follow-up; subjective assessment of sweat odor and quantity. Conclusions Laser caused an immediate and delayed reduction in axillary aerobes, anaerobes, lipophilic bacteria, and staphylococci. This form of dysbiosis might lead to sweat odour changes.

Bacterial Assessment of Retailed Smoked Edible Frog (<i>Hoplobatrachus occipitalis</i>)

This research work evaluated the bacteriological safety of smoked edible frog (Hoplobatrachus occipitalis) retailed in three selected markets in Ota metropolis, Ogun State, Nigeria. Three different markets namely Iju-Ota, Sango and Ijoko markets were visited and smoked edible frogs were procured. The study was conducted to determine if there is any potential risk of foodborne infection from consuming these smoked edible frogs by the populace. Microbiological analyses were carried out using nutrient Agar, mannitol salt agar, mac conkey agar, Salmonella shigella agar and eosin methylene blue agar (EMBA) and conventional methods were used to identify the bacteria isolated. The results revealed that samples from Sango market had the highest heterotrophic bacterial counts and ranged from 2.57 x 107 cfu/g to 3.47 x 107 cfu/g among the three markets. Total coliform counts ranged from 1.23 x 105 cfu/g to 2.04 x 105 cfu/g, total enterobacteriaceae counts ranged from 8.91 x 102 cfu/g to 1.29 x 103 cfu/g, total staphylococcal counts ranged from 1.82 x 105 cfu/g to 2.63 x 105 cfu/g and that of Salmonella shigella counts ranged from 8.71 x 102 cfu/g to 1.15 x 103 cfu/g. The bacterial isolates in this study belong to six genera. Presence of these bacterial isolates is highly suggestive that these products were prepared and sold under condition that would permit the survival and multiplication of various microorganisms. Proper processing and cooking of the smoked edible frog meat will get rid of these pathogens, thereby preventing foodborne infections.

Association between Mastitis Occurrence in Dairy Cows and Bedding Characteristics of Compost-Bedded Pack Barns.

Compost-bedded pack barns (CB) are receiving increasing attention as a housing system that can potentially improve the welfare of dairy cows. This study characterized the frequency and profile of pathogens isolated from clinical (CM) and subclinical (SCM) mastitis in dairy cows housed in CB. It evaluated the association between mastitis occurrence and bedding characteristics in CB systems. Over six months, seven dairy herds were visited monthly for milk and bedding sample collections. Milk samples from mastitis cases were submitted to microbiological identification by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF MS). Bedding samples were submitted to physical-chemical (pH, organic matter, moisture, and carbon to nitrogen ratio) and microbiological counting (total bacterial counts, coliforms, streptococci, and staphylococci) analyses. Regression analysis was used to determine the association between mastitis occurrence and CB characteristics. Our results showed that Escherichia coli and environmental streptococci were the most frequently isolated pathogens from CM cases, while Staphylococcus chromogenes and contagious pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus agalactiae) were the most commonly isolated from SCM cases. Bedding moisture content was positively associated with the incidence of CM. The bedding carbon to nitrogen ratio was negatively associated with the incidence of SCM, and the bedding total bacteria counts tended to be associated with the incidence of SCM. Bedding counts of coliforms positively associated with the prevalence of SCM. Our results can support decision-makers in the dairy industry seeking strategies for bedding management and mastitis control.

Assessment of the Hygienic Practices and Microbial Quality of Broiler Meat and its Contact Surfaces From Poultry Retail Outlet and Cold Room in Rivers State Nigeria

Poor hygiene and sanitary practices among poultry meat sellers can lead to the contamination of meat. This contamination can occur as a result of contamination from the contact surfaces in the cold room and retail outlet. The aim of the present study was to assess the sanitary quality of Broiler meat and its contact surfaces (apron, butcher hand, butcher table, bowl, butcher knife and weighing scale) in cold room and retail outlet. Swab samples were assessed for total bacteria count, total coliform count, total staphylococcus count and total fungal counts using Standard Microbiology methods. Mean Total viable count of each sample ranged from Log 10 cfu/cm2/g 3.64 to7.94 and 3.14 to 4.75 from the retail outlets and Cold-room respectively. Mean Total Staphylococcus count. of each sample ranged from Log 10 cfu/cm2/g 1.67to 4.67 and 2.01 to 3.87 from the retail outlets and Cold-room respectively. Counts from the retail outlets were significantly higher than counts in the cold room. Organisms isolated included ; Staphylococcus sp, Bacillus sp, Escherichia coli, Proteus sp, Salmonella sp, Aeromonas sp, Pseudomonas sp, Klebsiella sp and Enterobacter sp. Fungi isolated was Aspergillus sp, Saccharomyces sp, Penicillium sp and Rhodotorula sp. Antibiogram was carried out on the isolated organisms it was observed that Klebsiella sp and Enterobacter sp were resistant to most of the antibiotics used. In order to prevent cross-contamination of meat with isolated bacteria, appropriate cleaning and sanitization steps are required. According to the study, meat contact surfaces that were not thoroughly cleaned before usage, could function as a source of cross contamination. It is recommended that meat sellers especially in developing countries need proper education and training on good hygiene practice. Regulating agencies are also advised to ensure strict compliance by meat sellers to safety standards by embarking on routine inspection at retail outlets and market places.

Effects of processing on bacteriological, proximate, hydrocarbon content and organoleptic indices of Scomber scombrus

Effects of boiling, smoking and frying on the organoleptic quality, bacteriological count, proximate composition and total hydrocarbon contents of Scomber scombrus fish sold in Ikot Ekpene Metropolis were investigated. Fillets of fresh S. scombrus were made, and processed by smoking, boiling and frying methods. Portions of the fish sample were aliquoted, and used to carry out sensory evaluation, plating aliquots of diluents onto nutrient agar plates (for total viable count (TVC), and on Manitol Salt agar (for total staphylococcal count (TSC). Standard methods were used to determine moisture, ash, total lipids and crude protein contents. Total hydrocarbon content was determined by toluene extraction and measurement of absorbance of filtrate spectrophotometrically. Sensory quality obtained using smoke-drying and frying methods scored significantly higher than that of boiling and the control (p<0.05). TVC of samples were lower than in the control fish sample after processing, increasing over the 4-day period, although negligible when compared to the control. TVC were lowest in samples processed by frying. TSC decreased in all fish samples after processing, except in the control fish sample. Fried Scomber scombrus samples also showed no trace of S. aureus. Moisture, lipid, crude protein and ash contents of control S. scombrus were 68.78±1.02, 2.03±0.11, 20.14±0.06 and 0.09±0.32 respectively. The changes in moisture, lipid, crude protein and ash contents were statistically significant (P<0.05) in processed fish samples. Total hydrocarbon content also increased in processed fish; 2.914±0.005 for smoke-dried, 2.168±0.001 for fried and 1.538±0.009 for boiled, as against 1.412±0.011 in the control sample. Overall bacteriological quality indices, the proximate content and total hydrocarbon contents of samples demonstrated frying and smoking as preferable processing methods for Scomber scombrus.

Quality Assessment of Litopenaeus Vannamei Shrimp

This study aimed to throw the light on the nutritional value and quality of shell fish in addition to knowing the incipient spoilage of shellfish through definition of , evaluation of chemical composition of Litopenaeus vannamei shrimp (Total protein, Total fat, Total fiber, Humidity and ash), chemical analysis of Litopenaeus vannamei shrimp to determine its quality (pH, TVN, TBA and FFA) and evaluation of Litopenaeus vannamei shrimp quality. The study was carried-out on Shrimp samples from Berkeit Ghalioun, Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate, Egypt. The samples was collected during the summer season of 2022. All samples were transported directly fresh to laboratory in ice box (at 5 – 10 oC), within 2 – 3 hours for examination. The collected 70 shrimp (30 shrimp fresh and 40 shrimp frozen) were examined for sensory and biochemical evaluation at different periods of the study. The bacteriological evaluation was made on fresh (30 samples at different densities 100 m2 and 200 m2 of breeding) and the 70 frozen samples. This study concluded that, the sensory evaluation characters that includes colour, head/chest and tail , legs, shell and tentacles , eyes, dour and meat cleared that, the shrimp during its storage period that ranged from 1 to 20 days , the shrimp in agood quality conditions where its quantitative score ranged from 10 to 1 for the storage shrimp at 1 and 20 day. While, the results of constituent evaluation that includes protein %, fat %, moisture %, ash %, and the product evaluations that includes TBA %, TVBN %, pH, decreased with increasing the period of storage from 0 to 72 hours, while, the level of bacterial count (Total viable count, enterobacteriacae, coliforms, total staphylococci and staph. aureus counts increased with increasing the period of storage. Good preservation and application of good hygiene principlrs during catching improved the quality of shrimp.

Prevalence and Disinfection of Bacteria Associated with Various Types of Wristbands

The potential role of personal items in the transmission of pathogens is poorly understood. In this study, we cultured bacteria of public health importance found on wristbands, determined whether there is a correlation between wristband material and prevalence, and tested three household disinfectants for efficacy in reducing bacteria on wristbands made of plastic, rubber, metal, and cloth, using standard microbiological assays. Total cultivable bacteria, Staphylococci, Enterobacteria (Escherichia coli), and Pseudomonas on 20 smartwatch wristbands were cultured from randomly recruited subjects. Nearly all wristbands (95%) were contaminated, with the highest average numbers of 3.46E+4 cfu/cm2 and 1.52E+4 cfu/cm2 on rubber and plastic bands respectively. Metallic gold and silver wristbands had zero to 18 cfu/cm2. While the high prevalence of Staphylococcus spp (85% of wristbands)—skin microbiota; was not unexpected, the occurrence of Pseudomonas spp (30%), and enteric bacteria (60%), even at relatively low numbers is of public health significance. Bacterial load on individual subjects varied remarkably with males and females harboring average total bacteria of 4.045 and 3.42 log10cfu/cm2 of wristband, respectively. The most important predictor of wristband bacteria load was the texture of wristband material and activity (hygiene) of the subject at sampling time. Potential pathogens—Staphylococcus aureus (8143 cfu/cm2) and Pseudomonas spp. (1126 cfu/cm2) were most abundant on cloth and rubber wristbands, respectively, while the presence of the E. coli group was associated with animal handling activity by a veterinarian. Lysol Disinfectant Spray and 70% Ethanol were highly effective regardless of wristband material with >99.99% kill rate and a log cfu/cm2 reduction of 3 - 4.0 and 3 - 4.5 respectively within 30 seconds. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) was not as potent. Only 2 - 3.5 log cfu/cm2 drop was obtained after 120 seconds of exposure. Further susceptibility assays with standard reference bacteria showed that Lysol and 70% alcohol effectively killed > 99.99% (>8 log CFU drop) of Escherichia coli strain 7001, Staphylococcus aureus strain 6538, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain 10662 within 30 seconds of contact. Vinegar had a similar efficacy on the gram negatives but little or no effect on Staph aureus (only a 2-log CFU/ml reduction in 5 minutes!) The high prevalence of potential pathogens, some of which could be reservoirs of antibiotic resistance reveals a weak link in infection control and underscores the need for regular cleaning of personal and hand-held accessories with adequate considerations of their texture.

Microbiological status of smoked fish placed on the market in Poland

Fish and fishery products are considered to be one of the most nutrient-rich dietary products. The nutritional value of fish depends on its freshness. The greatest role in fish spoilage is played by microbial decomposition. Smoking is one of the methods of fish preservation based on the action of temperature and the penetration into the tissue of preservative substances produced by burning wood. Almost all microorganisms except some pathogenic bacteria are destroyed in the smoking process; nevertheless, fish can be a source of some pathogenic microorganisms, i.e. Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus spp., which are present as the result of cross-contamination at the stage after smoking, i.e. marketing and storage (4, 5, 8). Improper and unhygienic handling practices with the ready-to-eat RTE product are also the cause of an increase of the total microbiological contamination, which can be expressed by microbiological contamination indicators, i.e. total viable count (TVC), psychrophilic bacteria count (PBC), coliform count (EBC), total yeast and mould count (TYMC) and total staphylococci count (TSC). In the performed study five smoked fish species (redfish, mackerel, codfish, sprat and herring) were tested at the marketing stage. A total number of 50 (N = 50) samples was tested according to ISO standards. The potential foodborne bacteria in the tested samples were identified using a MALDI-TOF spectrometer combined with MALDI-Biotyper 3.0 software. In the performed study, the highest microbiology contamination TVC on the level 3.63 ± 0.15 log10 cfu/g and PBC on the level 3.04 ± 0.24 log10 cfu/g has been found in redfish muscle compared to herring, codfish, sprat and mackerel muscle. A significantly lower amount of 1.26 ± 0.12 log10 cfu/g yeast and moulds of was found in the muscle tissue of herring, compared to the other tested fish. The highest staphylococcal contamination of muscle tissue of redfish on the level 2.56 ± 0.15 log10 cfu/g and mackerel on the level 2.13 ± 0.15 log10 cfu/g was found. MALDI-TOF identification of isolated bacteria not confirmed the presence of Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes and pathogenic Staphylococci and confirmed the presence of E. coli in tested redfish.

Effect of Some Teeth Cleaning Methods on the Microbiological Content of the Oral Cavity

The study was conducted in the period from January to May 2018. The study included the identification of the total account and types of microbial content of the oral cavity during the normal daily practices at different times, which were after waking up, after washing mouth with water (rinsing), after breakfast and after using toothpaste for 33 donors of females and males, smokers and non-smokers, and the ages range were 25-35 years. The results of the study showed that all donor groups showed positive growth during the isolation stages, but there were no significant differences in the growth density of the total count, Enterobacteriaceae and staphylococcus for the donor groups, and the recorded account are not considered to be dangerous to the health of mouth. This is because donor's mouth health was good and smoking period was short. The highest account of bacteria in isolates were seen among smokers after waking up was 74-550 cfu / ml. The study also included the diagnosis of isolated microbial species using VITEK2. The results showed that the isolated bacterial species are Staphylococcus aureus, Lelliottia amnigena, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Pseudomonas luteola, Klebsiella pneumonie, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia which were varied in count, Bacterial resistance was tested for some of the antibiotics that were Doxycycline (DO), Mastiscs (TS), Ceftriaxone (CRO), Tobramycine (TOB), Mastiscs (T), Mastdiscs (T), Gentamicin (CN). The results showed that L. amnigena and S.maltophilia were sensitive to all antibiotics. P. fluorescens were sensitive to antibiotics CN, T, TOB, DO and resistance to antibiotics CRO, TS whereas K.pneumonie was sensitive to all Antibiotics used except the DO antibiotic. The S.aureus bacteria showed resistance to antibiotics CN, TOB, CRO, TS and sensitive to antibiotics T, DO.
 

Influence of lysozyme utilization with lactic acid bacteria in yoghurt on some foodborne pathogens

Despite the existence of many different food preservation methods, foodborne pathogens are still the most common related problems to dairy products. Developing naturally alternative techniques to control such problems is necessary. This research was planned to assess the bacteriological quality of yoghurt samples commercially available in Kafr El-Sheikh city, Egypt. Also to study the impact of natural antibacterial agents on the inhibition of selected foodborne pathogens artificially inoculated in yoghurt samples. The obtained results revealed poor bacteriological quality of the examined yoghurt samples, as total staphylococci and coliforms were detected in 80% and 90% yoghurt samples, with mean values of 2.4 ×103±0.13× 103cfu/gm and 3.6×105± 2.4×105 MPN/gm, respectively. S. aureus was noticed in 4% of examined samples, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) confirmed the pres­ence of virulence adhesion gene (clfA) in one isolate. E. coli was detected in 14% of yoghurt samples, then serologically identified as O146:H5 (2), O111:H2 (2), O125:H11 (1), O26:H10 (1) and O158:H7 (1). Artificially inoculated yoghurt with S. aureus (7.39 log cfu/gm) and E. coli (8.3 log cfu/gm), were used to investigate the ability of hen egg-white lysozyme either with LAB classic or with ABT-5 (L. acidophilus LA5+ S. thermophiles + Bifidobacterium Bb12) starter cultures to inhibit the growth of these pathogens. During refrigerated storage, all yoghurt batches showed a reduction in pH value. It was observed that both pathogens couldn't be detected in the yoghurt batch containing LAB classic starter + heated lysozyme. Furthermore, S. aureus was completely inhibited in that containing ABT-5 cultures alone, while E. coli decreased by 6.23 log. Conversely, there was not complete inhibition in other batches containing (LAB classic starter, LAB classic starter+ native lysozyme, ABT-5 culture+ native lysozyme and ABT-5 culture+ heated lysozyme) as the reduction rate during all storage periods for S. aureus count was 1.66, 2.63, 4.47 and 4.19 log, While for E. coli count was 3.3, 3.81, 5.53 and 4.89 log, respectively. This study highlighted the importance of adding natural antibacterial agents like lysozyme with LAB culture to yoghurt as a bio-control strategy to overcome foodborne pathogens that cause a public health hazard.

Diet supplementation with dalbergia palo-escrito hexane extract in fattening rabbits: its effect on productive performance, carcass traits, meat characteristics and meatballs Shelf-Life

This study was conducted to determine the influence of Dalbergia palo-escrito hexane extract supplemented to rabbits on productive performance, blood biochemistry, haematology, carcase traits, meat characteristics and meatballs shelf-life. A hexane extract of D. palo-escrito was obtained from leaves of the tree. Average feed consumption daily gain, average daily weight gain, total weight gain and feed conversion ratio, length body, lumbar circumference, carcase traits, texture profile analysis, meat colour, antioxidant properties, water activity as well as shelf life of meatballs (Total viable bacterial counts, staphylococcus counts, enterobacteria counts, antioxidant activity, pH and water activity) were determined. Feed conversion rate was lower (p < 0.05) in group feed with hexane extract (1.89 and 1.54, for control and hexane extract, respectively). Also, hexane extract decreases feed intake and weight gain. Hot dressing percentage was higher (p < 0.05) in the hexane extract group (48%) than the control group (47%), but the main carcase cuts were similar (p > 0.05) between groups. L* value was lower (p < 0.05) in the hexane extract group (51.2 vs 49.4, for control and hexane extract, respectively). The meatballs prepared with the meat obtained from the hexane extract group showed a lower (p < 0.05) total viable bacterial count after 14 d of storage in refrigeration conditions (8.45 and 4.75 CFU.g−1, for control and hexane extract group, respectively). D. palo-escrito hexane extract decreases productive performance, it is possible that albumin: globulin rate indicates a liver damage, but there no was effect on carcase and meat quality and it increased the shelf life of meatballs. Highlights Extracts of Dalbergia palo-escrito have bioactive compounds Dalbergia palo-escrito could be used to feed rabbits Meatballs increase shelf-life