Abstract Introduction: Sea urchin aquaculture is a rising industry, and in consequence, there is a need to establish optimal culture parameters to ensure the health of the cultured animals. Objective: To evaluate the bacterial counts in the seawater of sea urchin (Arbacia dufresnii) aquaculture recirculating systems (RAS). Methods: The bacteriological water quality of two RAS containing sea urchins was determined. For approximately two months, weekly water samples were taken. The bacteriological quality was determined by counting total aerobic heterotrophic populations, lactic acid bacteria, enterobacterias and genus Vibrio. Physicochemical parameters were also measured. Results: There was no presence of disease or mortality. Enterobacteria and lactic acid bacteria were not detected from both RAS systems. The number of animals had an important effect on the observed difference in the count of total bacteria and Vibrio spp. In RAS 1 the maximum counts of total bacteria and Vibrio spp. were 2.8 x 105 ± 1.7 x 105 and 1.45 x 105 ± 3.6 x 104 UFC ml-1, respectively. In RAS 2 total bacteria and Vibrio spp. exhibited repetitive behavior over time influenced in part by water exchange and mainly by feeding. The results indicate that periodic water changes ensure a limited growth of bacterial strains as Vibrio and other bacteria. Conclusions: Our results suggests that the bacterial count levels recorded in this study can be used as a threshold or safety limit for Arbacia dufresnii aquaculture.

Resumen Introducción: La acuicultura de erizos de mar es una industria en auge, y en consecuencia, existe la necesidad de establecer los parámetros de cultivo óptimos para garantizar la salud de los animales en cultivo. Objetivo: Evaluar los recuentos bacterianos en el agua de cultivo de los sistemas de recirculación acuícola (RAS) de erizo de mar Arbacia dufresnii. Métodos: Se determinó la calidad bacteriológica del agua de cultivo de dos RAS que contenían erizos de mar. Durante aproximadamente dos meses, se tomaron muestras de agua semanalmente. La calidad bacteriológica se determinó realizando recuento de las poblaciones heterótrofas aerobias totales, bacterias ácido lácticas, enterobacterias y bacterias del género Vibrio. También se midieron parámetros fisicoquímicos. Resultados: No se observaron patologías ni mortalidad. No se detectaron enterobacterias ni bacterias del ácido láctico en ninguno de los sistemas RAS. El número de animales cultivados tuvo un efecto importante en la diferencia observada en el recuento de bacterias totales y Vibrio spp. En el RAS 1 los recuentos máximos de bacterias totales y Vibrio spp. fueron 2.8 x 105 ± 1.7 x 105 y 1.45 x 105 ± 3.6 x 104 UFC ml-1, respectivamente. En RAS 2 los recuentos de bacterias totales y Vibrio spp. exhibieron un comportamiento repetitivo en el tiempo influenciado en parte por el recambio de agua y principalmente por la alimentación. Los resultados indican que los cambios periódicos de agua aseguran un crecimiento limitado de cepas bacterianas como Vibrio y otras bacterias. Conclusiones: Nuestros resultados sugieren que los niveles de recuento bacteriano registrados en este estudio pueden usarse como umbral o límite de seguridad para la acuicultura de Arbacia dufresnii.

INTRODUCTION: Contaminated disinfectants have been occasional vehicles of healthcare associated infections. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To determine the presence and level of bacterial contamination of disinfectants used to decontaminate suction devices and to assess the extent to which students comply with infection control practices. DESIGN: A two-part cross-sectional descriptive study consisting of microbiological testing of disinfectants and a questionnaire-based observation of students. METHODS: Unannounced observation of students disinfecting suction devices were recorded using a questionnaire. The process involved collecting a prepared disinfectant from a storage bin using a kitchen measuring jug. Specimens of disinfectants and swabs of jugs were collected for aerobic culture. Data pertaining to compliance with infection control practices was gathered. RESULTS: Only 33.6% of the students were observed unannounced. An overwhelming majority (84.9%) of students disinfected suction devices; 52% cleaned and disinfected the external surface of suction hoses and the spittoon bowl; 18.6% allowed the disinfectant to remain in the system long enough, and 14% advised their patients not to close their lips around the suction device. The majority of disinfectant samples (56.3%) as well jugs (55.6%) were contaminated with bacteria. CONCLUSION: Bacterial contamination of disinfectants was common in addition to poor compliance with infection control practices.

ABSTRACT: This study addresses the need to understand the presence of functional microorganisms in tropical soils, providing valuable information for conservation and sustainable management. The main objective is to analyze the variability of functional microorganisms at different soil depths and their correlations with physicochemical parameters. To this end, soil samples were collected from 15 random points in a reserved forest and analyzed for physicochemical and microbiological properties at two depths (10 and 20 cm). The following functional microorganisms were quantified: viable aerobes, lactobacilli, actinomycetes, fungi, and nitrogen-fixing bacteria using specific protocols. The non-parametric Wilcoxon test was used to determine differences between depths, and the Pearson correlation coefficient (|ρ| ≥ 0.8) was used to analyze correlations between physicochemical parameters and microorganisms. The results suggest that the abundance of viable aerobic microorganisms, Lactobacillus, Actinomycetes, and Fungi decreases with soil depth, while nitrogen-fixing bacteria show no significant differences. The decrease in abundance is related to factors such as nutrient and oxygen availability and microenvironmental conditions. There is a strong positive correlation between the amount of viable aerobic microorganisms and Lactobacillus with phosphorus content, and a negative correlation between Actinomycetes and clay content. Actinomycetes prefer sandy soils, while Fungi thrive in soils rich in organic matter. The negative correlation between Fungi and Actinomycetes suggests competition for limited resources and possible chemical interactions, such as the production of antibiotic compounds by Actinomycetes. This study demonstrates that a detailed understanding of soil microbiota can offer new opportunities to improve agricultural practices, especially in terms of soil fertility management and environmental sustainability.

RESUMEN: Este estudio aborda la necesidad de entender la presencia microorganismos funcionales en suelos tropicales, proporcionando información valiosa para la conservación y manejo sostenible. Tiene como principal objetivo analizar la variabilidad de microorganismos funcionales en diferentes profundidades del suelo y las correlaciones con los parámetros fisicoquímicos. Para ello se recolectaron muestras de suelo de 15 puntos aleatorios en un bosque reservado y se analizaron propiedades fisicoquímicas y microbiológicas a dos profundidades (10 y 20 cm). Se cuantificaron los siguientes microorganismos funcionales: aerobios viables, lactobacilos, actinomicetos, hongos y bacterias fijadoras de nitrógeno utilizando protocolos específicos. Se empleó la prueba no paramétrica de Wilcoxon para determinar diferencias entre profundidades y el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson (|ρ| ≥ 0,8) para analizar correlaciones entre parámetros fisicoquímicos y microorganismos. Los resultados sugieren que la abundancia de microorganismos aerobios viables, Lactobacillus, Actinomicetos y Fungi disminuye con la profundidad del suelo, mientras que las bacterias fijadoras de nitrógeno no muestran diferencias significativas. La disminución de la abundancia se relaciona con factores como la disponibilidad de nutrientes y oxígeno y las condiciones microambientales. Existe una correlación positiva fuerte entre la cantidad de microorganismos aerobios viables y Lactobacillus con el contenido de fósforo, y una correlación negativa entre Actinomicetos y el contenido de Arcilla. Los Actinomicetos prefieren suelos arenosos, mientras que los Fungi prosperan en suelos ricos en materia orgánica. La correlación negativa entre Fungi y Actinomicetos sugiere competencia por recursos limitados y posibles interacciones químicas, como la producción de compuestos antibióticos por parte de los Actinomicetos. Este estudio demuestra que la comprensión detallada de la microbiota del suelo puede ofrecer nuevas oportunidades para mejorar las prácticas agrícolas, especialmente en términos de gestión de la fertilidad del suelo y sostenibilidad ambiental.

Abstract The implementation of effective cleaning and disinfection procedures is crucial to ensure quality control and food safety in food services. This study aimed to evaluate the hygienic conditions in the gastronomy laboratories of a university in Colombia. The study conducted ATP bioluminescence detection and microbiological analysis on various surfaces and food handler's hands. The results indicated the presence of aerobic mesophilic bacteria and total coliforms on the surfaces, but no Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, or Salmonella spp. The cutting-board had the highest microbial counts, while the countertop and serving dish had the lowest. Total coliform counts exceeded the acceptable limits on most surfaces. Correlations between ATP levels and microbial counts were not significant. ATP measurements indicated organic contamination, but not necessarily high microbial loads. The findings emphasize the importance of proper cleaning, disinfection protocols, and personal hygiene practices to prevent cross-contamination and ensure food safety. services Colombia handlers handler s hands coli aureus monocytogenes spp cuttingboard cutting board lowest significant contamination loads protocols crosscontamination cross

ABSTRACT The objective was to investigate the effect of wild lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains on the fungal and chemical composition of whole-plant corn silage. Three treatments were evaluated: CON-without inoculation, LB-inoculated with Lentilactobacillus buchneri (CCMA 1366), and LF-inoculated with L. farraginis (CCMA 1362). The silages were stored for 29, 103, and 193 d. The highest acetic acid (19.7 g/kg DM) and 1,2-propanediol (6.3 g/kg DM) concentrations were found in the LF, the highest aerobic stability was observed in this silage after 29 d (158.3 h). The yeast population was below the detection level at 29 d in the LF and 103 and 193 d in all silages. Seven genera of filamentous fungi (FF) were identified before ensiling; none of these were found after ensiling. At 29 d, Monascus pilosus was identified in the LB after aerobic exposure but did not produce citrinin. At 103 and 193 d, there was Aspergillus fumigatus predominance. A. flavus was identified at 103 d in the CON and LB; none produced B1, B2, G1, or G2 toxins. LAB strains modified the silages’ chemical and FF composition, and LF increased aerobic stability and reduced FF’s yeast population and diversity. (LAB wholeplant whole plant evaluated CONwithout without inoculation LBinoculated inoculated CCMA 1366, 1366 , 1366) LFinoculated L 1362. 1362 . 1362) 19 19.7 197 7 (19. gkg g kg DM 1,2propanediol 12propanediol propanediol 1,2 1 2 6.3 63 6 3 (6. 158.3 1583 158 (158. h. h h) 10 (FF ensiling citrinin predominance A B1 B B2 G1 G toxins FFs s diversity 136 19. (19 2propanediol 12 1, 6. (6 158. 15 (158 13 (1 ( (15

RESUMO O objetivo foi investigar o efeito de cepas selvagens de bactérias do ácido lático (BAL) sobre a composição fúngica e química da silagem de planta inteira de milho. Três tratamentos foram avaliados: CON - sem inoculação, LB - inoculado com Lentilactobacillus buchneri (CCMA 1366) e LF - inoculado com L. farraginis (CCMA 1362). As silagens foram armazenadas por 29, 103 e 193 dias. As maiores concentrações de ácido acético (19,7g/kg MS) e 1,2-propanodiol (6,3g/kg MS) foram encontradas na silagem LF, e a maior estabilidade aeróbia foi observada nessa silagem após 29 dias (158,3h). A população de leveduras ficou abaixo do nível de detecção aos 29 dias na silagem LF e aos 103 e 193 dias em todas as silagens. Sete gêneros de fungos filamentosos (FF) foram identificados antes da ensilagem; nenhum deles foi encontrado após a ensilagem. Aos 29 dias, Monascus pilosus foi identificado na silagem LB após exposição aeróbia, mas não produziu citrinina. Aos 103 e 193 dias, houve predominância de Aspergillus fumigatus. A. flavus foi identificado aos 103 dias nas silagens CON e LB; nenhum produziu toxinas B1, B2, G1 ou G2. As cepas de BAL modificaram a composição química, e de FF das silagens; LF aumentou a estabilidade aeróbia e reduziu a população e a diversidade de leveduras FF. (BAL milho avaliados inoculação CCMA 1366 L 1362. 1362 . 1362) 10 19 19,7g/kg 197gkg gkg 7g kg g MS 1,2propanodiol 12propanodiol propanodiol 1,2 1 2 6,3g/kg 63gkg 6 3g 158,3h. 1583h h 158,3h 158 3h (158,3h) (FF ensilagem citrinina fumigatus B1 B B2 G G2 136 2propanodiol 12 1, 15 (158,3h 13

ABSTRACT Broilers (n=480) were used in an experiment designated for a 3(4 factorial arrangement to investigate the efficacy of three zinc (Zn) sources (organic Zn-Methionine, inorganic Zn sulphate and Zn oxide) and four inclusion rates (zero, 60, 120 and 180mg/kg of feed). Growth performance was not affect by Zn source in the entire of experimental period, however Zn level at 180 mg/kg improved body weight gain and feed conversion ratio compared to other Zn levels (P<0.05). Inclusion of Zn-Methionine in the diet increased the population of Lactobacillus (P<0.05), while E. coli counts decreased in birds which received Zn sulphate compared with Zn oxide group (P<0.05). Inclusion 180 mg/kg of Zn decreased total intestinal aerobic bacteria in comparison to zero level (P<0.05). An improvement of intestinal villus length and width was found in treatments supplemented with organic Zn (P<0.05), Zn oxide increased intestinal crypt depth in birds as well (P<0.05). Ileal digestibility of crude protein increased in broilers received Zn at 120 and 180 mg/kg compared with zero level (P<0.05). Consequently, Zn-methionine supplement had an optimistic effect on the microbial population and intestinal morphometric variables. The level of 180mg/kg of supplemental Zn had beneficial influence on growth performance. n=480 n480 n 480 (n=480 34 3 4 3( (Zn ZnMethionine, ZnMethionine Methionine, Methionine zero, (zero 60 12 180mgkg mgkg 180mg kg mg feed. . feed) period 18 P<0.05. P005 P P<0.05 0 05 (P<0.05) P<0.05, , E Consequently Znmethionine methionine variables n=48 n48 48 (n=48 6 1 P00 P<0.0 (P<0.05 n=4 n4 (n=4 P0 P<0. (P<0.0 n= (n= P<0 (P<0. (n P< (P<0 (P< (P

RESUMO Frangos de corte (n=480) foram usados em um experimento designado para um arranjo fatorial 3(4 para investigar a eficácia de três fontes de zinco (Zn) (Zn orgânico, sulfato de Zn inorgânico e óxido de Zn) e quatro taxas de inclusão (zero, 60, 120 e 180mg/kg de ração). O desempenho zootécnico não foi afetado pela fonte de Zn durante todo o período experimental, porém o nível de Zn na dose de 180 mg/kg melhorou o ganho de peso corporal e a conversão alimentar em relação aos outros níveis de Zn (P<0,05). A inclusão de Zn orgânico na dieta aumentou a população de Lactobacillus (P<0,05), enquanto as contagens de E. coli diminuíram nos frangos que receberam sulfato de Zn em comparação com o grupo óxido de Zn (P<0,05). A inclusão de 180 mg/kg de Zn diminuiu as bactérias aeróbicas intestinais totais em comparação ao controle (P<0,05). Uma melhora no comprimento e largura das vilosidades intestinais foi encontrada nos tratamentos suplementados com Zn orgânico (P<0,05), e o óxido de Zn aumentou a profundidade das criptas intestinais nas aves também (P<0,05). A digestibilidade ileal da proteína bruta aumentou em frangos de corte que receberam Zn nas doses de 120 e 180 mg/kg em comparação com o nível zero (P<0,05). Consequentemente, o suplemento orgânico de Zn teve um efeito positivo sobre a população microbiana e as variáveis morfométricas intestinais. O nível de 180 mg/kg de Zn suplementar teve influência benéfica no desempenho zootécnico. n=480 n480 n 480 (n=480 34 3 4 3( zero, (zero 60 12 180mgkg mgkg 180mg kg mg ração. ração . ração) experimental 18 P<0,05. P005 P P<0,05 0 05 (P<0,05) P<0,05, , E Consequentemente n=48 n48 48 (n=48 6 1 P00 P<0,0 (P<0,05 n=4 n4 (n=4 P0 P<0, (P<0,0 n= (n= P<0 (P<0, (n P< (P<0 (P< (P

Abstract Shalgam juice is a red colored and cloudy traditional fermented beverage produced by lactic acid fermentation of bulgur flour, black carrot, salt, turnip, sourdough, and water. In this study, the usability of grape pomace as a black carrot substitute for the enrichment of shalgam juice with phenolic compounds was investigated. Five different ratios of pomace (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100%) were added to the formulation as a substitute of black carrot and samples were analyzed for pH, acidity, soluble solid content (SSC), color (L*, a*, b*, C*, h, color density, color tone), microbiologically and sensorially during the fermentation to find out the effects of pomace on the progress of the fermentation. The shalgam juice containing only black carrot was used as control. The cloudiness, pH, and brightness of the shalgam juice increased as the pomace ratio increased. The control contained less yeast and mold counts than the pomace containing the shalgam juices. Grape pomace addition did not have an effect on the total mesophilic aerobic and the lactic acid bacteria counts. The sensorial properties of the shalgam juice containing 25% grape pomace were almost the same as the control sample, and as the pomace ratio increased, the shalgam juice samples could not meet the consumer's taste and expectations. In conclusion, when considering microbiological, sensorial and physicochemical properties, 25% grape pomace can be added to formulation before the fermentation as a carrot substitute. flour salt turnip sourdough water study investigated 0, 0 (0 25 50 75 100% 100 pH acidity SSC, SSC , (SSC) L*, L (L* a* b b* C C* h density tone, tone tone) cloudiness juices sample consumers consumer s expectations conclusion microbiological ( 2 5 7 10 (SSC L* (L 1

Abstract The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of titanium surface nanotopography on the initial bacterial adhesion process by in vivo and in vitro study models. Titanium disks were produced and characterized according to their surface topography: machined (Ti-M), microtopography (Ti-Micro), and nanotopography (Ti-Nano). For the in vivo study, 18 subjects wore oral acrylic splints containing 2 disks from each group for 24 h (n = 36). After this period, the disks were removed from the splints and evaluated by microbial culture method, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and qPCR for quantification of Streptococcus oralis, Actinomyces naeslundii, Fusobacterium nucleatum, as well as total bacteria. For the in vitro study, adhesion tests were performed with the species S. oralis and A. naeslundii for 24 h. Data were compared by ANOVA, with Tukey’s post-test. Regarding the in vivo study, both the total aerobic and total anaerobic bacteria counts were similar among groups (p > 0.05). In qPCR, there was no difference among groups of bacteria adhered to the disks (p > 0.05), except for A. naeslundii, which was found in lower proportions in the Ti-Nano group (p < 0.05). In the SEM analysis, the groups had a similar bacterial distribution, with a predominance of cocci and few bacilli. In the in vitro study, there was no difference in the adhesion profile for S. oralis and A. naeslundii after 24 h of biofilm formation (p > 0.05). Thus, we conclude that micro- and nanotopography do not affect bacterial adhesion, considering an initial period of biofilm formation. models topography TiM, TiM Ti M , (Ti-M) TiMicro, TiMicro Micro (Ti-Micro) TiNano. TiNano Nano . (Ti-Nano) 1 n 36. 36 36) method SEM, (SEM) nucleatum S A ANOVA Tukeys Tukey s posttest. posttest post test. test post-test p 0.05. 005 0.05 0 05 0.05) 0.05, analysis distribution bacilli Thus micro (Ti-M (Ti-Micro (Ti-Nano 3 (SEM 00 0.0 0.

ABSTRACT Corn silage is susceptible to losses through aerobic spoilage. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate increasing sweet orange essential oil levels in chemical composition, in vitro degradability, losses, fermentation parameters, microbial count, and the aerobic stability of corn silage. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design with four treatment levels: Control (CON), ensiling corn without sweet orange essential oil; 200 mg kg–1,400 mg kg–1, and 600 mg kg–1 of ensiling mass with four replicates per treatment. Sweet orange essential oil affected both the dry matter (p = 0.035) and the organic matter (p = 0.021), presenting quadratic behavior. Sweet orange essential oil did not affect (p ≥ 0.05) in vitro dry matter degradability, in vitro neutral detergent fiber degradability, or gross energy. Sweet orange essential oil had a quadratic effect (p = 0.022) on the acetic acid concentration in corn silage. There was a tendency (p = 0.097) for sweet orange essential oil to reduce the ammoniacal nitrogen linearly. The levels of sweet orange essential oil did not influence losses by gases or effluents (p ≥ 0.05). We observed no effect of sweet orange essential oil on Lactic acid-producing bacteria populations or fungi (p ≥ 0.05). Furthermore, increasing sweet orange essential oil levels decreased temperature (p = 0.02) over time but did not influence pH (p = 0.404). Sweet orange essential oil does not affect in vitro degradability, fermentation parameters, nor microbial count in corn silage. However, the 600 mg of ensiling mass increases corn silage’s acetic acid concentration and aerobic stability. spoilage Therefore composition degradability parameters CON, CON , (CON) 20 kg1400 kg 1 400 kg–1,40 kg1 60 kg– p 0.035 0035 0 035 0.021, 0021 0.021 021 0.021) behavior 0.05 005 05 energy 0.022 0022 022 0.097 0097 097 linearly 0.05. . acidproducing producing Furthermore 0.02 002 02 0.404. 0404 0.404 404 0.404) However silages s (CON 2 kg140 40 kg–1,4 6 0.03 003 03 0.0 00 0.09 009 09 040 0.40 kg14 4 0. 04 0.4

Resumo A cultura sanguínea de rotina é usada para a detecção de infecções na corrente sanguínea por bactérias aeróbias e anaeróbias e por leveduras patogênicas comuns. Estudo retrospectivo realizado em hospital público de Maceió-AL, por meio da coleta de dados de todos os prontuários com culturas sanguíneas positivas. Das 2.107 culturas sanguíneas realizadas, 17% foram positivas com Staphylococcus coagulase negativo (51,14%), seguido por Staphylococcus aureus (11,21%) e Klebsiella pneumoniae (6,32%). As bactérias Gram-positiva predominaram entre as culturas de sangue positivas, destacando-se o grupo das Staphylococcus coagulase-negativo. Enquanto as bactérias Gram-negativas apresentaram um número maior de espécies entre as culturas de sangue positivas.

Abstract Routine blood culture is used for the detection of bloodstream infections by aerobic and anaerobic bacteria and by common pathogenic yeasts. A retrospective study was conducted in a public hospital in Maceió-AL, by collecting data of all medical records with positive blood cultures. Out of the 2,107 blood cultures performed, 17% were positive with Staphylococcus coagulase negative (51.14%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (11.21%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (6.32%). Gram-positive bacteria predominated among positive blood cultures, highlighting the group of Staphylococcus coagulase-negative. While Gram-negative bacteria had a higher number of species among positive blood cultures.

Resumo Vaginite aeróbica (VA) é uma infecção vaginal recorrente definida recentemente, que é tratada com antibióticos. No entanto, o uso excessivo e prolongado de antibióticos perturba a microflora vaginal saudável e leva ao surgimento de resistência aos antibióticos entre os patógenos. Esta situação levou os pesquisadores a explorar antimicrobianos alternativos. O presente estudo descreve a eficácia antimicrobiana in vitro e in vivo e as interações farmacêuticas entre óleos essenciais vegetais (OE) e cinco bactérias lácticas (BAL), isoladas de vagina sã, contra E. faecalis, um dos principais agentes etiológicos da AV. Os experimentos in vitro confirmam a boa atividade antimicrobiana de ambos os EOs de plantas e sobrenadante livre de células (CFS) de LABs. Com base na alta eficácia antimicrobiana, o óleo essencial de Moringa (MO) foi selecionado para determinar sua natureza de interação com o sobrenadante livre de células (CFS) de cinco cepas de LAB. Sinergismo foi registrado entre MO e CFS de L. reuteri (MT180537). Para validar os resultados in vitro, as respostas profiláticas da aplicação individual e sinérgica de MO e L. reuteri (MT180537) foram avaliadas em um modelo murino AV induzido por E. faecalis (MW051601). A eficácia profilática foi evidenciada por uma redução na intensidade dos sintomas clínicos, contagem de E. faecalis (MW051601) por tecido vaginal, juntamente com uma redução nas alterações associadas a AV nos marcadores histológicos de infecção em animais que receberam óleo essencial de Moringa e L. reuteri (MT180537) sozinho ou em combinação. No entanto, não foi possível observar sinergismo significativo entre o óleo essencial de Moringa e L. reuteri (MT180537). Nossos dados confirmam a importância dos experimentos in vivo na dedução de interações farmacológicas.

Abstract Aerobic vaginitis (AV) is a recently defined vaginal recurring infection, which is treated with antibiotics. However, excessive and prolonged use of antibiotics disrupts healthy vaginal microflora and leads to the emergence of antibiotic resistance among pathogens. This situation has directed researchers to explore alternative antimicrobials. The current study describes in vitro and in vivo antimicrobial efficacy and pharmaceutical interactions between plant essential oils (EOs) and five lactic acid bacteria (LABs), isolated from the healthy vagina, against E. faecalis, one of the major etiological agents of AV. In vitro experiments confirm good antimicrobial activity of both plant EOs and cell free supernatant (CFS) from LABs. Based on high antimicrobial efficacy, Moringa essential oil (MO) was selected to determine its nature of interaction with CFS of five LAB strains. Synergism was recorded between MO and CFS of L. reuteri (MT180537). To validate in vitro findings, prophylactic responses of individual and synergistic application of MO and L. reuteri (MT180537) were evaluated in an E. faecalis (MW051601) induced AV murine model. The prophylactic efficacy was evidenced by a reduction in intensity of clinical symptoms, E. faecalis (MW051601) count per vaginal tissue along with a reduction in AV associated changes in histological markers of infection in animals receiving Moringa essential oil and L. reuteri (MT180537) alone or in combination. However, significant synergism between Moringa essential oil and L. reuteri (MT180537) could not be observed. Our data confirms the importance of in vivo experiments in deducing pharmacological interactions.

Abstract Introduction: Consumption of fresh tomatoes has increased over the years and production systems (conventional or hydroponic), harvest and post-harvest practices, irrigation water and harvest containers, can affect the microbiological quality of the final product. Objective: To compare the microbiological quality of the cultivated or harvested fruit, the irrigation water, and the harvest containers in two tomato production farms (conventional and hydroponic). Methods: We carried out three sampling visits in each farm (repetitions), taking, in each repetition, 3 tomatoes of each type (composite sample), 50 ml of irrigation water and swabbing 50cm2 of the surface of three harvest containers (composite sample). We determined indicator microorganisms such as total aerobic mesophilic count, mold and yeast count, total coliforms, thermotolerant coliforms and E. coli. Presence of Listeria monocytogenes was also analyzed in fruits. We applied student's t-tests at a significance level of 5%. Results: Total aerobic mesophilic and mold and yeast counts of hydroponic tomato were significantly lower than in conventional tomato, while no difference in total coliform counts and E. coli was detected. L. monocytogenes was absent in all samples. The total aerobic mesophilic count was higher in the harvest containers of the conventional farm. In both farms, irrigation water was not considered a source of contamination since it had very low levels of total coliforms, thermotolerant coliforms, and E. coli. Finally, an adequate control during harvesting was presumed, having found no difference in the microbiological indicators between the cultivated and harvested tomato. Conclusion: Hydroponic tomatoes are more likely to have a better microbiological profile and longer shelf life compared to conventionally grown tomatoes, evidencing the importance of environmental control and cleaning and disinfection of all elements used in the farming, harvesting and postharvest processes.

Resumen Introducción: El consumo de tomate fresco ha ido en aumento a través de los años y los sistemas de cultivo (convencional o hidropónico), las prácticas de cosecha y poscosecha, el agua de riego y los contenedores pueden incidir sobre su calidad microbiológica. Objetivo: Comparar la calidad microbiológica de la fruta cultivada o cosechada, del agua de riego y de los contenedores de cosecha en dos fincas de producción de tomate (convencional e hidropónica). Métodos: Realizamos tres muestreos a cada finca (repeticiones), tomando, en cada repetición, 3 tomates de cada tipo que conformaron una muestra compuesta, 50 ml de agua de riego e hisopando 50cm2 de la superficie de tres contenedores de cosecha (muestra compuesta). Determinamos los indicadores microbiológicos de recuento total aerobio mesófilo, recuento de hongos filamentosos y levaduras, coliformes totales, coliformes termotolerantes y E. coli. Además, analizamos la presencia de Listeria monocytogenes en los frutos. Aplicamos pruebas de t-student a un nivel de significancia del 5%. Resultados: Los recuentos total aerobio mesófilo y hongos filamentosos y levaduras del tomate hidropónico fueron significativamente menores que en el tomate convencional, mientras que no hubo diferencia en los recuentos de coliformes totales y E. coli, además L. monocytogenes estuvo ausente en todas las muestras. El recuento total aerobio mesófilo fue mayor en los contenedores de cosecha de la finca convencional. En ambas fincas el agua de riego no se consideró fuente de contaminación pues tuvo niveles muy bajos de coliformes totales, coliformes termotolerantes y E. coli. Finalmente, se presume un control adecuado en las fincas durante la cosecha, al no haber encontrado diferencia en los indicadores microbiológicos entre el tomate cultivado y el cosechado. Conclusión: Los tomates hidropónicos presentan mayor probabilidad de tener un mejor perfil microbiológico y mayor vida útil en comparación con los tomates cultivados de forma convencional, evidenciando la importancia del control ambiental y la limpieza y desinfección de todos los insumos utilizados en los procesos de cultivo, cosecha y poscosecha.

Resumen Introducción. El interés de la población por el consumo de productos frescos como las hortalizas ha ido en aumento a través de los años. Existen diferentes métodos de cultivo para producir hortalizas como zanahoria, tomate y repollo. Los sistemas de cultivo convencional y orgánico son los más comunes. Objetivo. Comparar la microbiología de zanahoria, tomate y repollo, provenientes de fincas con sistemas productivos de agricultura orgánica o convencional en Costa Rica. Materiales y métodos. El trabajo se realizó en Cartago, Heredia y Alajuela, Costa Rica, de setiembre 2020 a noviembre 2021, durante la época lluviosa en todos los casos. Se muestrearon hortalizas de fincas modelo de producción de zanahoria, tomate y repollo, una de producción orgánica y tres de producción convencional. Se determinaron recuentos totales de aerobios mesófilos, coliformes totales, Escherichia coli, mohos y levaduras, y la ausencia/presencia de Listeria monocytogenes. Resultados. Los recuentos totales aerobios, de mohos y levaduras y de coliformes totales de la zanahoria, el repollo y el tomate de cultivo convencional y orgánico no difirieron entre sí. En las hortalizas estudiadas los recuentos de E. coli fueron de <1 log UFC/g y hubo ausencia de Listeria monocytogenes. Se encontró presencia de Listeria sp. en las muestras de zanahoria de cultivo convencional, en contraste con su ausencia en la zanahoria de cultivo orgánico. Conclusiones. L. monocytogenes estuvo ausente en las hortalizas estudiadas, que en general, tuvieron cargas microbianas aceptables según la normativa y similares a estudios reportados a nivel mundial. Bajo condiciones controladas, si se comparan con aquellas obtenidas de sistemas de producción convencional, es posible obtener hortalizas con la técnica de cultivo orgánico sin detrimento en su calidad microbiológica y con los beneficios derivados para la salud del consumidor y el ambiente.

Abstract Introduction. Interest in consuming fresh products such as vegetables has been increasing over the years. Different cultivation methods to produce vegetables such as carrots, tomatoes, and cabbages are available. Conventional and organic farming systems are the most common. Objective. To compare the microbiology of carrot, tomato and cabbage from farms with organic or conventional agricultural production systems in Costa Rica. Materials and methods. Sampling was carried out in Cartago, Heredia and Alajuela, Costa Rica, from September 2020 to November 2021, during the rainy season in all cases. Vegetables from model farms of carrot, tomato and cabbage, one of organic production and three of conventional production, were sampled. Microbial counts of total aerobic mesophilic, total coliforms, Escherichia coli, yeasts and molds, and the absence/presence of Listeria monocytogenes were determined. Results. Total aerobic, yeast and mold and total coliform counts for conventionally and organically grown carrots, cabbages, and tomatoes did not differ from each other. In the vegetables studied, E. coli counts were <1 log CFU/g and Listeria monocytogenes was absent. Presence of Listeria sp. in carrot samples from conventional cultivation was found in contrast to its absence in carrots from organic cultivation. Conclusions. L. monocytogenes was absent in the vegetables studied, which in general had acceptable microbial loads according to regulations and similar to studies reported worldwide. Under controlled conditions, when compared to those obtained from conventional production systems, it is possible to obtain vegetables from organic farming without detriment to their microbiological quality and with the derived benefits for the health of the consumer and the environment.

Resumen El uso Bokashi como enmienda orgánica del suelo y fuente de nutrición para las plantas ha recibido una atención considerable en los últimos años. El Bokashi es un método de compostaje de origen japonés, basado en la fermentación aeróbica de los residuos mediante la inoculación de microorganismos eficientes; que son bacterias anaeróbicas y levaduras lácticas que aceleran el proceso acortando el tiempo de obtención del abono. El objetivo de la investigación fue caracterizar la producción científica mundial sobre el abono Bokashi indexada en la base de datos SCOPUS. El proceso se realizó el 10 de agosto de 2022 mediante el algoritmo de búsqueda: (TITLE-ABS-KEY (Bocashi) OR TITLE-ABS-KEY (Bokashi)) vinculado a título del artículo, resumen y palabras claves. La investigación se realizó utilizando el instrumento de investigación de los softwares VOSviewer y Harzing´s Publish or Perish. Los resultados del análisis bibliométrico registraron un total de 161 documentos publicados entre los años 1999 a 2022. Las principales tipologías de las publicaciones fue 129 artículos (80.12 %) y 25 conferencias (15.52 %), el 87.58 % (141 publicaciones) fueron en inglés. Brasil fue el país como más publicaciones (39), seguido por Indonesia (31) y México (22). Ventura, M. U. fue el autor con mayor productividad con seis artículos. En las redes de coautorías se encontraron dos redes principales: la primera con Fregonezi, G. A. F., Hata, F. T. y Ventura, M. U. y, la segunda, con Grądzki, Z. El interés crecimiento del Bokashi como alternativa sostenible en los sistemas de producción agrícolas debe permitir establecer y construir redes de publicaciones científicas, revistas científicas, investigadores, organización de investigación, países y palabras claves.

Abstract The use of Bokashi as an organic soil amendment and a source of plant nutrition has received considerable attention in recent years. Bokashi, is a composting method of Japanese origin, based on the aerobic fermentation of waste through the inoculation of efficient microorganisms, which are anaerobic bacteria and lactic yeasts that accelerate the process, shortening the time it takes to obtain the fertilizer. The objective of the research was to characterize the world scientific production on Bokashi fertilizer indexed in the SCOPUS database. The process was carried out on August 10, 2022 using the search algorithm: (TITLE-ABS-KEY (Bocashi) OR TITLE-ABS-KEY (Bokashi)) linked to article title, abstract and keywords. The research was carried out using the research instrument of the VOSviewer and Harzing’s Publish of Perish software. The results of the bibliometric analysis recorded a total of 161 documents published between the years 1999 and 2022. The main types of publications were 129 articles (80.12 %) and 25 conferences (15.52 %), 87.58 % (141 publications) of which, were in English. Brazil was the country with the most publications (39), followed by Indonesia (31) and Mexico (22). Ventura, M. U. was the highest producing author with six articles. In the co-authorship networks, two main networks were found: the first with Fregonezi, G. A. F., Hata, F. T. and Ventura, M. U. and the second with Grądzki, Z. The growing interest in Bokashi as a sustainable alternative in agricultural production systems should allow to establish and build networks of scientific publications, scientific journals, researchers, research organization, countries and keywords.

INTRODUCTION: It is generally accepted that inadequately sterilised dental curing light guides pose risks of infection and cross-contamination. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To determine the presence and level of bacterial contamination among curing light guides used by students during patient care at a dental school in South Africa and to describe students' knowledge and awareness of measures used to maintain their sterility. DESIGN: A two-part descriptive study consisting of microbiological testing and a cross-sectional survey. Methods: Swabs were collected from curing light guide tips before and after use for aerobic culture and a questionnaire was used to collect data pertaining to students' knowledge and awareness of measures used to maintain their sterility. RESULTS: The prevalence of contamination increased after use (54.5% vs 45.5%). Grades of bacterial growth higher than 1+ were not detected. Isolated bacteria were contaminants. The response rate for the questionnaire was 42.5%. Fifth-year students were overall more knowledgeable than fourth-year students (81.6% vs 67.5%) and were more aware of the existence of the different types of disposable barriers (27.5% vs 12.8%) and the impact of infection control barriers on curing light intensity (52.4% vs 15%). CONCLUSION: Contamination occurred despite high levels of knowledge and awareness of the risk.