Transmission line silicon rubber insulators are frequently subjected to harsh environmental conditions that can change their surface characteristics and result in a transient or permanent loss of hydrophobicity. Algae, fungi, mould, and lichen are examples of biological growth that can compromise the power system's ability to operate safely by lowering the insulator's flashover voltage. We evaluated and identified the major microorganisms that could be responsible for the flashovers of insulators in South Africa. Due to the difficulty of accessing insulators currently in use within the electricity network, only two insulators, from two provinces in South Africa, were used in the study. Although algae were not found on the insulators, two major filamentous fungi identified as Curvularia sp. and Aspergillus sp. were isolated. The absence of algae could be attributed to the weather pattern of the two locations where the insulators were placed during their use as part of the network. According to previous studies worldwide, the high occurrence of these fungi could be linked to the reduction of flashover voltage of the composite insulators. Although a larger survey including more insulators from all provinces in South Africa should be conducted, the current study demonstrates the need for a cleaning programme for insulators using cost-effective eco-friendly antimicrobial agents. SIGNIFICANCE: • Degradation and loss of hydrophobicity on the overhead line composite due to biological growth were found to be an impediment to the safe operation of high-voltage insulators. Fungi were found to be the main factor causing the degradation of overhead transmission lines. • With these data, a model can be developed to predict the rate of biological growth on a given insulator, to estimate the degradation of the surface conditions with time for the utility to know when to remove them from the line. Such a model could lead to a more reliable and efficient power system and reduce the engineer's workload.

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.

Resumo A salmonela é uma causa séria de problemas de saúde em humanos e animais em todo o mundo. Salmonella tem sido isolada de diferentes amostras biológicas e é considerada como o principal papel na indução da inflamação do trato gastrointestinal que por sua vez causa diarreia em diferentes espécies. Compreender melhor o envolvimento da Salmonella na contaminação e infecção de ovos frescos e carne de frango caipira. Este estudo teve como objetivo estabelecer as detecções microbiológicas e moleculares de Salmonella na cloaca da galinha caipira e identificar as funções biológicas previstas usando as vias da Enciclopédia de Gene e Genômica de Kyoto (KEGG) e interação proteína-proteína. Suabes cloacais foram coletados de galinhas criadas ao ar livre em fazenda local na cidade de Duhok. Os isolados foram cultivados e o teste bioquímico realizado com XLD e TSI, respectivamente. A detecção molecular e anotação funcional do gene invA foi realizada usando PCR convencional e abordagens de bioinformática. O presente estudo descobriu que Salmonella foi detectada em 36 das 86 amostras usando métodos microbiológicos. Para confirmar esses achados, o gene invA foi utilizado e 9 dos 36 isolados de Salmonella mostraram um sinal positivo de invA pelo gel de agarose. Além disso, a análise bioinformática revelou que o gene invA estava associado principalmente a processos de secreção bacteriana, assim como seus termos KEGG e interação proteína-proteína estavam envolvidos na invasão bacteriana e nas vias de secreção. Esses achados sugeriram que o gene invA desempenha um papel importante na regulação dos processos de colonização e invasão de Salmonella dentro do hospedeiro intestinal na galinha caipira.

Abstract Salmonella is a serious cause of the health issues in human and animal worldwide. Salmonella has been isolated from different biological samples and it considers as the key role in induction of inflammation of gastrointestinal tract which in turn cause diarrhoea in different species. To further understand the involvement of Salmonella in contaminating and infecting fresh eggs and meat of free-range chicken. This study aimed to establish the microbiological and molecular detections of Salmonella in the cloaca of the free-range chicken and to identify predicted biological functions using Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genomic (KEGG) pathways and protein-protein interaction. Cloacal swabs were collected from free range chicken raised in the local farm in Duhok city. The isolates were cultured and biochemical test performed using XLD and TSI, respectively. Molecular detection and functional annotation of invA gene was carried out using Conventional PCR and bioinformatics approaches. The present study found that Salmonella was detected in 36 out of 86 samples using microbiological methods. To confirm these findings, invA gene was utilised and 9 out of 36 Salmonella isolates have shown a positive signal of invA by agarose gel. In addition, bioinformatic analysis revealed that invA gene was mainly associated with bacterial secretion processes as well as their KEGG terms and Protein-Protein Interaction were involved in bacterial invasion and secretion pathways. These findings suggested that invA gene plays important role in regulating colonization and invasion processes of Salmonella within the gut host in the free range chicken.

Abstract New natural reducing agents with a lower negative impact on the environment and with a high antimicrobial potential are required for the process of obtaining silver nanoparticles through the chemical reduction method. The use of plant extracts can be a fast track in the formation of nanoparticles. In this case, organic compounds such as terpenes, flavonoids, enzymes, proteins, and cofactors present in plants act as reducing agents for nanomaterials. This research evaluated the antimicrobial property of silver nanoparticles from extracts of Crescentia cujete L. The presence of quercetin (flavonoid) was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC); the production of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was established by green synthesis; the size and morphology of the nanomaterials were evaluated by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The antimicrobial capacity was studied by two analysis methods: modified culture medium and surface seeding. The presence of quercetin (26.55 mg L-1) in the crude extract of Crescentia cujete L., identified by HPLC, was evidenced. Nanoparticle formation was spherical, with an average size of 250 ± 3 and 460 ± 6 nm. Microbiological cultures with treatment showed 94% microbial inhibition. It was concluded that the Crescentia cujete L., leaves shoed an acceptable concentration of quercetin to be used as a useful adjuvant to enhance the reduction of NPs synthesis. The nanoparticles produced by green synthesis proved to have a positive effect to combat pathogenic microorganisms.

Resumo Novos agentes redutores naturais com menor impacto negativo ao meio ambiente e com alto potencial antimicrobiano são necessários para o processo de obtenção de nanopartículas de prata, pelo método de redução química. O uso de extratos vegetais pode ser um caminho rápido na formação de nanopartículas. Nesse caso, compostos orgânicos como terpenos, flavonoides, enzimas, proteínas e cofatores presentes nas plantas atuam como agentes redutores dos nanomateriais. Esta pesquisa avaliou a propriedade antimicrobiana de nanopartículas de prata de extratos de Crescentia cujete L. A presença de quercetina (flavonoide) foi determinada por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (HPLC); a produção de nanopartículas de prata (AgNPs) foi estabelecida por síntese verde; o tamanho e a morfologia dos nanomateriais foram avaliadas dos por microscópio eletrônico de varredura (SEM). A capacidade antimicrobiana foi estudada por dois métodos de análise: meio de cultura modificado e semeadura em superfície. Foi evidenciada a presença de quercetina (26,55 mg L-1) no extrato bruto de Crescentia cujete L., identificada por HPLC. A formação das nanopartículas foi esférica, com tamanho médio de 250 ± 3 e 460 ± 6 nm. Culturas microbiológicas com tratamento mostraram 94% de inibição microbiana. Assim, concluiu-se que as folhas de Crescentia cujete L. apresentam uma concentração aceitável de quercetina para ser utilizada como um adjuvante útil para potencializar a redução da síntese de NPs. As nanopartículas produzidas pela síntese verde provaram ter um efeito positivo no combate a microrganismos patogênicos.

Caves are ecosystems and natural heritage sites with magnificent biological diversity, from microorganisms to animals, despite their selective environment for development and survival. Until now, studies on cave microbiomes have included taxonomic classification through metagenomics analysis, demonstrating microbiological heterogeneity mainly composed of prokaryotic organisms or bacteria species. The generally oligotrophic environment, with limited energy input and dark zone, is the main feature differentiating the cave microorganisms from the other microbiomes and resulting in a unique habitat, which has unexplored regard to biology and chemical diversity. Multi-omics integration is a key strategy for scanning and integrating the macro and micromolecular universe, providing a better comprehension of processes and answers of the microbiome in natural cavities. Here, we highlight the strategies employed to study the cave microbiome, from the microbial genomes to their ability to secondary metabolites production, and also the multi-omics integration to explore the chemical and biological diversity in caves. animals survival now analysis species zone habitat Multiomics Multi omics universe cavities Here production multiomics multi caves

ABSTRACT The physical and microbiological characteristics of the soil are indicators considered in the assessment of the conditions of anthropized areas and are tools to identify levels of degradation, define the best crops, and thus, propose actions that help the producer to choose the appropriate soil management. In this regard, the aim of this work was to analyze the physical and microbiological properties of the soil in different agricultural production systems and in a preserved area. The research was carried out at a property located in the municipality of Campo Novo do Parecis - MT, Cerrado`s Biome. For the physical analysis, samples at depths of 0-0.10 m, 0.10-0.20 m and 0.20-0.30 m in five locations were collected randomly, within each production system and in the forest fragment. To evaluate the microbial activity of the soil, soil samples were collected at the 0-0.10 m layer also in five locations. All uses showed changes in physical characteristics, when compared to natural conditions. In the microbiological analysis, the integrated systems did not present significant differences in relation to the organic matter and the basal respiration of the soil when compared with the conventional systems and the forest fragment. The carbon of the microbial biomass of the soil and the metabolic quotient showed a difference between the systems of use and the preserved area.

Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a fermentação semi-carbônica como tratamento pós-colheita de café submetido a diferentes tipos de processamento sobre a qualidade do café e sobre a incidência de fungos. O experimento foi conduzido no IFSULDEMINAS Campus Inconfidentes, Brasil, em delineamento em blocos ao acaso. Foi realizado com 9 tratamentos considerando os frutos em diferentes estádios fenológicos fermentados e não fermentados. Foram analisados os parâmetros físicos, químicos, microbiológicos e a qualidade sensorial do café. A qualidade sensorial dos cafés cereja verde+maduro e verde claro melhorou significativamente, apresentando diminuição na incidência dos fungos Cladosporium. O café fermentado apresentou tonalidades mais avermelhadas. O processo de fermentação melhora a qualidade dos grãos de café verde claro e verde + maduro. O processo de fermentação semi-carbônica afeta resultando em cerejas de café com tons avermelhados. A fermentação semi-carbônica reduz a incidência de fungos Cladosporium, sem alterar a qualidade do café.

Abstract The objective of this this work was to evaluate semi-carbonic fermentation as a post-harvest treatment of coffee subjected to different processing types on the coffee qualities and on the incidence of fungi. The experiment was conducted in IFSULDEMINAS Campus Inconfidentes, Brazil, in a randomized block design. It was carried out in 9 treatments considering the fruits in different fermented and non-fermented phenological stages. The coffee physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters and sensorial quality were analyzed. The sensorial quality of green + ripe, and light green coffee cherries was significantly improved, presenting decreases in incidence of Cladosporium fungi. The fermented coffee presented more reddish hues. The fermentation process improves the quality of light green and green + ripe coffee cherries. Semi-carbonic fermentation process affects resulting in coffee cherries with reddish hues. Semi-carbonic fermentation reduces the incidence of Cladosporium fungi, without altering the coffee quality.

Resumen Introducción. La carne de conejo tiene un alto valor nutricional, pero su textura, dureza y color impactan la decisión de compra de los consumidores, por ello su mejora es deseable. Objetivo. Realizar una caracterización física, química y microbiológica de la carne de conejo (Oryctolagus cuniculus) y determinar el efecto de la aplicación de CaCl2 sobre la calidad de la misma. Materiales y métodos. En San José, Costa Rica, entre enero y septiembre, 2015, se analizaron piezas de muslo de conejo marinadas y sin marinar con CaCl2, cocinadas y sin cocinar, tanto al momento inicial como después de un almacenamiento de cinco días. A estas se les efectuó un análisis proximal completo y pruebas de plateo microbiológico, medición de pH, determinación de la pérdida de agua por goteo y medición del color y textura. Resultados. La carne presentó una humedad de 75,3 %, 2,8 % de grasa, 21,1 % de proteína y 0,8 % de cenizas. Las proteínas se distribuyeron en 54,8 % sarcoplasmáticas, 35,1 % miofibrilares y 10,1 % (DE=1,05) del estroma. No hubo diferencias significativas en mediciones del pH. Se encontró una carga inicial de organismos psicrófilos provenientes de fuentes abióticas. En cuanto a la pérdida de agua por goteo, la carne sin marinar tuvo un valor de -1,0±0,7 %, y de -0,1±0,6 % marinada. La adición de CaCl2 produjo una carne más blanca; sin embargo, después de la cocción, presentó un color más amarillo. No se encontraron diferencias significativas en la suavidad al adicionar CaCl2. Conclusiones. La calidad obtenida de la carne de conejo fue comparable con la reportada en la literatura. La adición de CaCl2 por marinado no tuvo un efecto sobre la calidad general de la carne de conejo, bajo las condiciones del presente estudio.

Abstract Introduction. Rabbit meat has a high nutritional value, but its texture, toughness, and color impact consumers' purchasing decisions, therefore making an improvement is desirable. Objective. To perform a physical, chemical, and microbiological characterization of rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) meat and determine the effect of CaCl2 application on its quality. Materials and methods. In San José, Costa Rica, between January and September 2015, pieces of rabbit thigh marinated and unmarinated with CaCl2, cooked and uncooked, were analyzed both at initial time and after five days of storage. A complete proximal analysis and microbiological plating tests, pH measurement, drip loss determination, and color and texture measurement were performed. Results. The meat had a moisture content of 75.3 %, 2.8 % fat, 21.1 % protein, and 0.8 % ash. The proteins were distributed as 54.8 % sarcoplasmic, 35.1 % myofibrillar, and 10.1 % (SD=1.05) stroma. There were no significant differences in pH measurements. An initial load of psychrophilic organisms from abiotic sources was found. Regarding drip loss, unmarinated meat had a value of -1.0±0.7 %, and marinated meat had value of -0.1±0.6 %. The addition of CaCl2 produced a whiter meat; but after cooking, it had a more yellow color. No significant differences were found in tenderness when CaCl2 was added. Conclusions. The quality of the rabbit meat obtained was comparable to that reported in the literature. The addition of CaCl2 by marinating had no effect on the overall quality of rabbit meat under the conditions of the present study.

Abstract Introduction. Composting transforms residual organic materials into a product with the potential to restore organic matter and nutrients for agriculture, while reducing the volume and weight of these materials and their disposal in landfills or as pollutants in rivers and aquifers. Objective. To optimize the commercial production of compost, with the improvement of the process conditions and the addition of microbial inoculum. Materials and methods. On an agro-industrial substrate, conditions such as aeration, temperature, pile height and humidity were optimized on the composting process, and the addition of 3 microbial inoculum degrading organic matter was evaluated, in order to compare them with a commercial and an absolute control. Chemical and microbiological analyzes were carried out, as well as innocuity, stability and maturity. In total, 17 chemical, 7 microbiological, 2 safety and 13 maturity variables were evaluated. For the analysis and comparison of the treatments, a multicriteria method was used to summarize the result of the 39 variables studied in a single representative value. Results. Two confidence intervals were established, the first (a) includes the commercial and the absolute control, with the lowest quality scores. The second (b) encompasses the microbiological treatments Degradabiol, Bacilos and Agrecicla, with the highest weighted values, and the best quality characteristics. Conclusion. The addition of inoculum, as well as humidity and temperature management, frequent turning, and row height, allowed to obtain better quality characteristics, compared to conventionally produced compost. Poor C/N ratio of initial raw materials was a factor that could not be corrected due to the type of waste usually processed. Viable measures need to be implemented in order to improve this relationship, which is generally deficient in commercial compost productions.

Resumen Introducción.El compostaje transforma materiales orgánicos residuales en un producto con potencial para restituir materia orgánica y nutrientes para la agricultura, mientras se reduce el volumen y peso de estos materiales y su disposición en rellenos sanitarios o como contaminantes de ríos y mantos acuíferos. Objetivo. Optimizar la producción comercial de compost, con la mejora de las condiciones del proceso y la adición de inóculos microbianos. Materiales y métodos. Sobre un sustrato agroindustrial se optimizaron condiciones del proceso de compostaje, tales como aeración, temperatura, altura de la pila y humedad, y se evaluó la adición de 3 inóculos microbianos degradadores de materia orgánica, para compararlos con un testigo comercial y un testigo absoluto. Se realizaron análisis químicos y microbiológicos, así como de inocuidad, estabilidad y madurez. En total se evaluaron 17 variables químicas, 7 microbiológicas, 2 de inocuidad y 13 de madurez. Para el análisis y comparación de los tratamientos se empleó un método multicriterio y de esa forma resumir el resultado de las 39 variables estudiadas en un solo valor representativo. Resultados. Se establecieron 2 intervalos de confianza, el primero (a) incluye al testigo comercial y al testigo absoluto, con las menores calificaciones de calidad. El segundo (b) abarca a los tratamientos microbiológicos Degradabiol, Bacilos y Agrecicla, con los mayores índices ponderados y las mejores características de calidad. Conclusión. La adición de inóculos, así como el manejo de la humedad, temperatura, volteos frecuentes y altura de hileras, permitió obtener mejores características de calidad, en comparación con el compost producido convencionalmente. La relación C/N deficiente de las materias primas iniciales fue un factor que no pudo ser corregido debido al tipo de residuos usualmente procesados. Es necesario implementar medidas viables para mejorar esta relación, que generalmente es deficiente en las producciones comerciales de compost.

Resumo Introdução: Um teste rápido de diagnóstico de pneumonia tem o potencial de orientar decisões clínicas, como o início de antibioterapia, permitindo a redução do uso de antibióticos de amplo espectro. Contudo, a aceitação desses testes de diagnóstico está dependente da sua precisão. De forma a avaliar a assertividade diagnóstica e a precisão do painel de pneumonia BioFire® FilmArray® (BFFA) na identificação de microorganismos em secreções brônquicas, realizamos este estudo retrospetivo, que decorreu no Serviço de Medicina Intensiva (SMI) do CMHT. Métodos: Neste estudo foram incluídos todos os doentes (n = 104) internados no nosso SMI com pneumonia e que realizaram o teste BFFA, entre dezembro de 2019 e março de 2021. As amostras do trato respiratório inferior foram colhidas e analisadas simultaneamente pelo BFFA e pela cultura microbiológica. O painel BFFA incluiu 18 bac-térias e 8 vírus, que comumente causam pneumonia, bem como 7 genes de resistência a antibióticos, identificados a partir de amostras quer de aspirado traqueal, quer de lavado broncoalveolar (LBA). Resultados: Este estudo incluiu 104 pacientes, com idade média de 62 anos. O BFFA foi positivo em 111/125 (88%) das amostras colhidas. As bactérias mais comummente detetadas foram Staphylococcus aureus (19%), Klebsiella pneumonia (14%) e Haemophilus influenza (10%). Discussão: Foi possível inferir a forte concordância entre os resultados do BFFA e do exame cultural na deteção de bactérias. De facto, a maioria das bactérias (76/106 [72%]) detetadas pelo BFFA também foram identificadas na cultura. Por outro lado, é de realçar que de todos os BFFA negativos, apenas um teve isolamento de agente no exame cultural. Conclusão: A análise de amostras de secreções respiratórias em tempo real com o BFFA tem o potencial de identificar microorganismos, assim como marcadores de resistência, mais rapidamente do que os métodos tradicionais baseados no exame cultural. De facto, o BFFA é um método rápido e preciso para deteção de microorganismos causadores de infeções do trato respiratório inferior com proporção de concordância positiva de 72% e proporção de concordância negativa próxima de 100%, na população estudada.

Abstract Introduction: Rapid diagnostic testing for pneumonia has the presume potential to guide clinical decisions in reducing the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. These benefits should be dependent upon the accuracy of these test. In order to evaluate the diagnostic yield and accuracy of the BioFire® FilmArray® pneumonia panel (BFFA) for pathogens identification in lower respiratory tract specimens, we conduct this retrospective study in a intensive care unit (ICU). Methods: In this study were included all patients (n = 104) admitted in our ICU with pneumonia who underwent BFFA test, between December 2019 and March 2021. Lower respiratory tract samples were collected and analysed simultaneously with BFPP and microbiological culture, as part of standard-of-care testing. The BFFA panel includes for 18 bacteria and 8 virus, that commonly cause pneumonia as well 7 antibiotic resistance genes, identified from tracheal aspirate or bronchial alveolar lavage (BAL) specimens. Results: This study included 104 patients, with an average age of 62 years. The BFFA was positive in 111/125 (88%) samples. The most common bacteria detected were Staphylococcus aureus (19%), Klebsiella pneumonia (14%) and Haemophilus influenza (10%). Discussion: There was strong concordance between BFFA and culture for detection of bacteria. In fact, most bacteria (76/106 [72%]) detected by BFFA were also identified in culture. In other hand, it is relevant that only one negative BFPP had an isolated agent in the cultural exam. Conclusion: Real-time specimen analysis with BFFA has the potential to identify bacterial and viral pathogens and theirs resistance markers, faster than traditional culture-based methods. In fact, the BFFA is a rapid and accurate method for detection of pathogens from lower respiratory tract infections with a 72% sensitivity and 100% specificity, in our studied population.

Resumen El trabajo tiene por objetivo analizar y evaluar la calidad del agua subterránea de la ciudad de Sucre, Bolivia, específicamente del área de cobertura del caudal Cajamarca. La metodología consistió inicialmente en la caracterización del área de estudio: localización, topografía, geología, marco hidrológico, hidrogeológico y precipitación pluvial. Posteriormente, se seleccionaron y tomaron muestras de siete pozos (P1-P7). Se realizaron los análisis microbiológicos, organolépticos, químicos e hidroquímicos, además de la evaluación para su uso en el área agrícola. Fueron considerados los requisitos mínimos del control de la calidad del agua para consumo humano de la Norma Boliviana 512, Ley Nº 1333 del Medio Ambiente y las guías para la calidad de agua potable de la Organización Mundial de la Salud. Los resultados demuestran que todos los pozos cumplen con los requerimientos establecidos en los parámetros químicos. Sin embargo, los siete pozos se ven comprometidos en la caracterización microbiológica y organoléptica. Respecto al análisis hidroquímico, se observa que la mayoría de las muestras pertenecen al grupo Na^+-HCO_3^- con un contenido iónico relativamente elevado. Por otra parte, sólo los P2 y P7 son aptos para uso agrícola; mientras que, los P3 y P4 pueden ser empleadas bajo ciertas condiciones. Si bien la explotación de aguas subterráneas puede ser una alternativa a la demanda de agua, se debe realizar un análisis detallado de sus características y, si fuera necesario, un tratamiento para su uso.

Abstract The objective of this research work is to analyze and evaluate the quality of groundwater in the city of Sucre, Bolivia, specifically in the area covered by the Cajamarca flow. The methodology consisted initially in the characterization of the study area: location, topography, geology, hydrological and hydrogeological framework and rainfall. Subsequently, samples were selected and taken from seven wells (P1-P7). Microbiological, organoleptic, chemical and hydrochemical analyses were performed, as well as evaluation for agricultural use. The minimum requirements for water quality control for human consumption of Bolivian Standard 512, Law No. 1333 of the Environment and the guidelines for drinking water quality of the World Health Organization were considered. The results show that all the wells meet the requirements established in the chemical parameters. However, the seven wells are compromised in the microbiological and organoleptic characterization. Regarding the hydrochemical analysis, it is observed that most of the samples belong to the Na+-HCO3_- group with a relatively high ionic content. On the other hand, only P2 and P7 are suitable for agricultural use, while P3 and P4 can be used under certain conditions. Although groundwater exploitation can be an alternative to water demand, a detailed analysis of its characteristics and, if necessary, a treatment for its use should be carried out.

Resumen Presentamos el caso de un hombre de 40 años, HIV positivo con regular adherencia al tratamiento, que consultó por episodios febriles intermitentes de dos años de evolución, agregando en los últimos dos meses dolor abdominal difuso progresivo y adenomegalias ge neralizadas indoloras. En el laboratorio presentó panci topenia, coagulopatía, hipoalbuminemia y reactantes de fase aguda aumentados. La tomografía computarizada (TC) de tórax, abdomen y pelvis únicamente evidenció hepato-esplenomegalia y adenomegalias generalizadas. Se realizaron múltiples exámenes microbiológicos, in cluyendo cultivos para Mycobacterium sp. de distintas muestras, todos con resultados negativos, a excepción de la RT-PCR para VHH-8. Se tomó biopsia escisional de ganglio iliaco izquierdo con hallazgos compatibles con enfermedad de Castleman. A pesar de reiniciar terapia antirretroviral, la sintomatología progresó, iniciando tratamiento con corticoides y ganciclovir. Luego de una semana, desarrolló falla mulitorgánica y anasarca, que contraindicaron los fármacos iniciados. Se realizó nueva TC de tórax que mostró infiltrados con patrón en árbol en brote en lóbulo superior derecho asociado a derra me pleural bilateral, y a nivel abdominal, progresión de hepato-esplenomegalia y ascitis. Pasó a unidad de cui dados intensivos 48 horas después por falla hepática ful minante. El paciente falleció en pocas horas. Se recibió postmortem el cultivo del aspirado traqueal positivo para Mycobacterium tuberculosis y la punción-biopsia hepática con granulomas no necrotizantes. Nuestro objetivo es remarcar la importancia de pesquisar tuberculosis activa en nuestro país frente a la sospecha de enfermedad de Castleman antes de iniciar tratamiento, y resaltar que la TBC también puede presentarse como complicación infecciosa elevando la morbimortalidad.

Abstract We present the case of a 40-year-old man, HIV posi tive with regular adherence to treatment, who consulted for intermittent febrile episodes during a two-years period, progressive diffuse abdominal pain and painless generalized lymphadenopathy in the last two months. Laboratory analysis showed pancytopenia, altered co agulation tests, hypoalbuminemia, and increased acute phase reactants. Computed tomography (CT) of the chest, abdomen and pelvis revealed hepato-splenomegaly and generalized lymphadenopathy. Multiple microbiological tests were performed, including cultures for Mycobacte rium sp. from different samples, with negative results, except for the RT-PCR for HHV-8. An excisional biopsy of the left iliac lymph node was taken with findings compatible with Castleman’s disease. Despite restarting antiretroviral therapy, the symptoms progressed, starting treatment with steroids and ganciclovir. After a week, he developed multiple organ failure and anasarca, which contraindicated the drugs previously started. A new CT of the chest showed infiltrates with a tree-in-bud pattern in the right upper lobe with bilateral pleural effusion, and at the abdominal level, progression of hepatospleno megaly and ascites. He was transferred to the intensive care unit 48 hours later due to fulminant hepatic fail ure. The patient died within a few hours. Postmortem recieved culture results of the tracheal aspirate were positive for tuberculosis (TB) and the histopathology of the liver biopsy showed non-necrotizing granulomas. Our objective is to highlight the importance of screening for active TB, in our country, when Castleman’s disease is suspected, before starting treatment, and to stand out that TB can also present as an infectious complication, increasing morbidity and mortality.

Resumen El artículo describe las características fisicoquímicas y microbiológicas tanto del sistema de abastecimiento de agua potable existente en el distrito Las Brisas, ubicado en el cantón de Zarcero, como del agua superficial del río Jilguero que atraviesa dicha comunidad. Se valora el impacto negativo de las actividades humanas sobre el recurso hídrico durante los años 2019-2021 para determinar su vulnerabilidad a partir del análisis de 45 muestras de agua dulce. Los resultados más importantes son: 1- Existen niveles de amonio y de fosfato en el agua del acueducto, provenientes del expansivo desarrollo agropecuario, que, durante la estación lluviosa, escurren y lixivian a las nacientes. 2- El pH y el cloro libre son dos parámetros que requieren ser mejorados en el acueducto las Brisas, para reducir los riesgos y asegurar la potabilidad del agua en toda la red de distribución. 3- La contaminación del río Jilguero se clasifica entre moderada y severa según normativa nacional, situación generada por la intensa actividad agropecuaria en la zona, así como el irrespeto a las zonas de protección del río.

Abstract The article describes the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of both the existing drinking water supply system in the Las Brisas district located in the canton of Zarcero, and the surface water of the Jilguero River that crosses said community. The negative impact of human activities on water resources during the years 2019-2021 is assessed to determine its vulnerability based on the analysis of 45 freshwater samples. The most important results are: 1- There are levels of ammonium and phosphate in the aqueduct water that, during the rainy season, run off and leach into the springs, coming from the expansive agricultural development. 2- The pH and free chlorine are two parameters that need to be improved in the Las Brisas aqueduct, to reduce risks and ensure the potability of the water throughout the distribution network. 3- The contamination of the Jilguero River is classified between moderate and severe according to national regulations, a situation motivated by the intense agricultural activity in the area, as well as the disrespect for the river's protection zones.

RESUMEN Las plantas purificadoras de agua que carecen de un adecuado sistema de control de calidad pueden generar problemas de salud pública. El objetivo de este estudio fue examinar la calidad microbiológica del agua proveniente de pequeñas plantas purificadoras de la ciudad de Puebla, así como, determinar la existencia de bacterias Aeromonas sp y Pseudomonas sp, y caracterizar si presentan un fenotipo patógeno oportunista. Se recolectaron 70 muestras de garrafones de agua de 25 establecimientos. La cuantificación bacteriana se realizó mediante el método de goteo en placa. Se comprobaron los géneros microbianos mediante análisis bioquímico. En las cepas que mostraron discrepancia se utilizó la identificación molecular con base a secuencias parciales del gen 16S rRNA para confirmar su especie y se les evaluaron sus características de patogenicidad: multirresistencia a antibióticos, producción de biopelícula y actividad hemolítica. El 40 % de las plantas purificadoras no cumplieron con la calidad microbiológica del agua para consumo humano. El 41.4 % de los garrafones de agua muestreados incumplió la normativa, presentando coliformes totales 35.7 %, Pseudomonas 30 %, Enterococcus faecalis 8.6 % y bacterias coliformes fecales el 5.7 %. Se obtuvieron 56 aislados, provenientes de los 29 garrafones contaminados; 10 de ellos se caracterizaron molecularmente, resultando 7 aislados relacionados con especies diferentes de P. aeruginosa y 3 con especies de Aeromonas. De los aislados de Pseudomonas, 5 presentaron resistencia a 2 familias de antibióticos y 2 mostraron multirresistencia. El 36 % de los 10 aislados produjeron hemólisis y biopelícula. Dos cepas de Aeromonas mostraron resistencia a Cefalosporina 3a generación pero no produjeron hemólisis. Los 10 aislados analizados fueron clasificados como no patógenos. Es necesario un seguimiento sanitario más estricto para lograr el cumplimiento de las normas nacionales e internacionales relacionadas con el consumo de agua purificada, para evitar dañar la salud de los consumidores.

ABSTRACT Water purification establishments that lack an adequate quality control system can cause public health problems. The objective of this study was to examine the microbiological quality of water from small purification establishments in the city of Puebla, as well as to determine the existence of Aeromonas sp and Pseudomonas sp bacteria, and to characterize whether they present an opportunistic pathogenic phenotype. 70 water jug samples were collected from 25 establishments. Bacterial quantification was performed using the drop plate method. Microbial genera were determined by biochemical analysis using the standard methodology. In the strains that showed discrepancy, molecular identification based on partial sequences of the 16S rRNA gene was used to confirm their species, and their pathogenic characteristics were evaluated: multiresistance to antibiotics, biofilm production, and hemolytic activity. The results showed that 40 % of the purification establishments did not comply with the microbiological quality of water for human consumption. Similarly, 41.4 % of the jugs of water sampled failed to comply with the regulations, presenting total coliforms 35.7 %, Pseudomonas 30 %, Enterococcus faecalis 8.6 % and fecal coliform bacteria 5.7 %. Likewise, 56 isolates were obtained from the 29 contaminated jugs, of which 10 were molecularly characterized, resulting in 4 different species for P. aeruginosa and 3 for Aeromonas. Of the 7 Pseudomonas isolates, 5 presented resistance to 2 families of antibiotics and 2 showed multiresistance. In total, 36 % of the 10 isolates produced hemolysis and biofilm. Two Aeromonas strains showed resistance to 3rd generation Cephalosporin but did not produce hemolysis. The 10 isolates analyzed were classified as non-pathogenic. A stricter sanitary monitoring is necessary to achieve compliance with national and international standards related to the consumption of purified water, to avoid harming the health of consumers.

BACKGROUND: South Africa (SA) has a high prevalence of HIV infection, which has been shown to affect the prevalence and severity of other infections and of sepsis, particularly in gallbladder (GB) disease. Empirical antimicrobial (EA) therapy for acute cholecystitis is based largely on bacterial colonisation of bile (bacteriobilia) and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns (antibiograms) obtained from the developed world, where the prevalence of HIV infection is very low. In an era of ever-increasing antimicrobial resistance, it is of vital importance to monitor and update local antibiograms OBJECTIVES: Owing to the paucity of data available locally to guide treatment, our objectives were to examine GB bile for bacteriobilia and to assess antibiograms in a setting with a high prevalence of HIV infection, in order to determine the need for review of our local antimicrobial policies for both EA therapy for GB infections and preoperative antimicrobial prophylaxis (PAP) for laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC METHODS: A retrospective observational descriptive study was undertaken at King Edward VIII Hospital, Durban, SA. Hospital records were reviewed for all patients undergoing LC over a 3-year period. GB bacteriobilia and antibiograms were assessed and compared between people living with HIV (PLWH) and people who were HIV uninfected (HIV-U). The preoperative parameters of age, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein (CRP) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were assessed as predictors for bacteriobilia. Statistical analyses were performed using R for statistical computing, andp-values <0.05 were considered statistically significant RESULTS: There were no differences in bacteriobilia or antibiograms between PLWH and HIV-U. There was >30% resistance to amoxicillin/ clavulanate and cephalosporins. Aminoglycoside-based therapy had good susceptibility patterns, while carbapenem-based therapy demonstrated the lowest resistance levels. ERCP and age were predictors of bacteriobilia (p<0.001 and p<0.002, respectively), but PCT, CRP and NLR were not CONCLUSION: PLWH should follow the same PAP and EA therapy recommendations as HIV-U. For EA therapy, we recommend a combination of amoxicillin/clavulanate with aminoglycoside-based therapy (amikacin or gentamicin), or piperacillin/tazobactam as monotherapy. Carbapenem-based therapy should be reserved for drug-resistant species. For elective LC, elderly patients or patients who have previously undergone ERCP, we recommend selective use of cefazolin for PAP