Journal Description
Microbiology Research
Microbiology Research
is an international, scientific, peer-reviewed open access journal published quarterly online by MDPI (from Volume 11 Issue 2-2020).
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), Embase, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 16.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
Impact Factor:
2.1 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.0 (2023)
Latest Articles
Predictive Modeling of UV-C Inactivation of Microorganisms in Glass, Titanium, and Polyether Ether Ketone
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(3), 1189-1207; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15030080 - 5 Jul 2024
Abstract
Biomaterials consist of both natural and synthetic components, such as polymers, tissues, living cells, metals, and ceramics. Their purpose is focused on repairing or replacing malfunctioning living tissues and organs. Therefore, it is imperative to ensure the safety and sterility of biomaterials before
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Biomaterials consist of both natural and synthetic components, such as polymers, tissues, living cells, metals, and ceramics. Their purpose is focused on repairing or replacing malfunctioning living tissues and organs. Therefore, it is imperative to ensure the safety and sterility of biomaterials before any contact with living tissue. Ultraviolet (UV)-C irradiation for biomaterial disinfection has been considered due to the high recurrence rate of bacterial infections and to prevent resistance. Physical composition and surface properties and UV-C sensitivity of microorganisms can alter its efficacy. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of UV-C in terms of microbial lethality and additional underlying factors contributing to its performance, namely the surface properties. For this purpose, twelve different strains were first screened, from which four microorganism species known to have the ability to cause nosocomial infections were further tested, namely Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, and Candida glabrata. These microorganisms were inoculated onto slides and disks of various bio contact surfaces, including glass (GLS), titanium (Ti), and poly ether etherketone (PEEK), and exposed to UV-C. The results demonstrate that bacterial pathogens on biomaterial surfaces respond differently to UV-C light exposure, and the bactericidal effect decreased in this order: glass, PEEK, and Ti (0.5 to 2.0 log reduction differences). P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853 on glass surfaces was reduced to an undetectable level after being exposed to 6.31 J.cm−2 of UV-C, displaying the highest reduction rate observed among all the tested microorganisms, 2.90 J−1.cm−3, compared to Ti and PEEK. Similarly, a higher reduction in C. glabrata ATCC 2001 was observed on glass; the modeled inhibition displayed a rate of 1.30 J−1.cm−3, the highest observed rate among yeast, compared to Ti and PEEK, displaying rates of 0.10 J−1.cm−3 and 0.04 J−1.cm−3, respectively. The inactivation rates were higher for less hydrophobic materials with smoother surfaces as compared to biomaterials with rougher surfaces.
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Open AccessArticle
Limosilactobacillus reuteri and Its Probiotic Potential against Cariogenic Bacteria
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Brianda Karina Félix-Sicairos, Rita Elizabeth Martinez-Martinez, Saray Aranda-Romo, Roberto Gonzalez-Amaro, Mariana Salgado-Bustamante, Norma Verónica Zavala-Alonso and Ángel Gabriel Alpuche-Solís
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(3), 1178-1188; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15030079 - 3 Jul 2024
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Bacteriotherapy is a promising option in addressing dental caries, a persistent global public health challenge with multifactorial origin, including dysbiosis. Despite the exploration of various probiotics, outcomes remain inconclusive. Objective: This study aimed to assess the inhibitory potential of L. reuteri and other
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Bacteriotherapy is a promising option in addressing dental caries, a persistent global public health challenge with multifactorial origin, including dysbiosis. Despite the exploration of various probiotics, outcomes remain inconclusive. Objective: This study aimed to assess the inhibitory potential of L. reuteri and other potential probiotics like S. salivarius and S. oralis on the growth, adhesion, colonization, and viability of major cariogenic pathogens, comparing their probiotic efficacy. Methods: An in vitro experimental study was conducted, encompassing direct competition assays in solid and liquid co-culture tests and the characterization of adhesion to dental enamel and cell viability by life or death assay. Results: L. reuteri exhibited the significant inhibition of S. sobrinus and S. mutans growth in both solid and liquid cultures, with statistically notable differences. Scanning electron microscopy and confocal microscopy demonstrated reduced cariogenic biofilm formation when combined with L. reuteri, corroborated by diminished bacterial viability and decreased dental enamel coverage. These findings underscore L. reuteri’s potential as an effective agent in caries prevention. Conclusion: The study suggests L. reuteri could serve as an effective probiotic in bacteriotherapy against dental caries. It displayed substantial inhibitory activity in vitro against cariogenic bacteria, impeding biofilm formation and adhesion, thereby impacting cell viability.
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Graphical abstract
Open AccessArticle
Comparative High-Throughput Sequencing Analysis of the Bacterial Community Associated with the Rhizosphere of Date Palm (Phoenix dactyllifera L.) Irrigated with Treated Wastewater and Groundwater
by
Fayza Kouadri
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(3), 1163-1177; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15030078 - 2 Jul 2024
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Water scarcity is a major agricultural issue in most arid and semi-arid regions of the world. Alternative water supplies, such as the reuse of wastewater for agricultural irrigation, have been introduced. However, little is known about their impact on the soil and rhizosphere
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Water scarcity is a major agricultural issue in most arid and semi-arid regions of the world. Alternative water supplies, such as the reuse of wastewater for agricultural irrigation, have been introduced. However, little is known about their impact on the soil and rhizosphere microbiomes that receive irrigation. Therefore, this work evaluates the impact of treated wastewater (TWW) irrigation on the soil and rhizosphere bacterial communities of date palms in Al Madinah, Saudi Arabia. In this study, metagenomic DNA from the rhizosphere of the date palm was sequenced using Illumina high-throughput sequencing. According to the observed OTUs, Chao1 richness estimations, and Shannon diversity values, soils from groundwater-irrigated date palms showed higher microbial diversity than did soils from TWW-irrigated date palms. A total of 569 OTUs were generated; most of them (97.3%) were assigned into 15 different phyla, whereas 2.7% were marked as unclassified. DNA sequence analysis of the WWT-irrigated rhizosphere showed that the most abundant phyla were Firmicutes (43.6%), Bacteroidetes (17.3%), Proteobacteria (15.2%), and Actinobacteria (14.6%), representing more than 90.7% of the total community, while the soil of the rhizosphere irrigated with GW was dominated by Actinobacteria (44.1%), Proteobacteria (23.4%), Firmicutes (15.5%), and Gemmatimonadetes (4.9%). The most frequently observed species in the two soils were also different. The dominant species in TWW-irrigated soil was Planococcus plakortidis, which is prevalent in saline and moderately saline habitats and can play an important ecological role. The GW-irrigated rhizosphere exhibited higher levels of biocontrol bacteria, particularly Nocardioides mesophilus. These results provide a comprehensive understanding and insights into the population dynamics and microbiome of date palm rhizosphere. The findings show that the irrigation water quality has a significant impact on the microbiome composition. Identifying the microbial diversity is the first step toward determining the best way to use TWW in irrigation.
Full article
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Open AccessArticle
Plant Growth-Promoting and Tequila Vinasse-Resistant Bacterial Strains
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Alberto J. Valencia-Botín, Ismael F. Chávez-Díaz, Florentina Zurita-Martínez, Allan Tejeda-Ortega and Lily X. Zelaya-Molina
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(3), 1144-1162; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15030077 - 2 Jul 2024
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Tequila vinasse, a byproduct of the tequila industry, is frequently discharged into water bodies or agricultural fields, posing significant ecological and human health risks. Bacterial communities that inhabit these agricultural fields have developed mechanisms to utilize tequila vinasse as a potential nutrient source
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Tequila vinasse, a byproduct of the tequila industry, is frequently discharged into water bodies or agricultural fields, posing significant ecological and human health risks. Bacterial communities that inhabit these agricultural fields have developed mechanisms to utilize tequila vinasse as a potential nutrient source and to promote plant growth. In this study, strains from the phyla Actinomycetota and Pseudomonadota were isolated from agricultural fields irrigated with tequila vinasse for 2, 10, and 14 years in Jalisco, Mexico. The results showed that strains of Terrabacter, Azotobacter, Agromyces, Prescottella, and Leifsonia tolerate high concentrations of tequila vinasse and promote maize seedling growth in the presence of tequila vinasse. Additionally, some of the strains solubilize potassium and produce siderophores, cellulase, protease, lipase, and esterase. The strains Terrabacter sp. WCNS1C, Azotobacter sp. WCNS1D, and Azotobacter sp. WCNS2A have potential applications in the bioremediation of tequila vinasse in agricultural fields discharged with tequila vinasse.
Full article
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Open AccessBrief Report
Factors Influencing Central Venous Catheter-Associated Bloodstream Infections in COVID-19 Patients
by
Adriana Lemos de Sousa Neto, Thalita Campos, Clesnan Mendes-Rodrigues, Reginaldo dos Santos Pedroso and Denise Von Dolinger de Brito Röder
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(3), 1134-1143; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15030076 - 2 Jul 2024
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During the pandemic of COVID-19, the rates of bloodstream infection associated with venous catheter in patients infected with the disease admitted to an intensive care unit rose significantly. In this study, we evaluated the occurrence of bloodstream infections in patients with SARS-CoV-2 and
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During the pandemic of COVID-19, the rates of bloodstream infection associated with venous catheter in patients infected with the disease admitted to an intensive care unit rose significantly. In this study, we evaluated the occurrence of bloodstream infections in patients with SARS-CoV-2 and the variables that made the patients more susceptible to the catheter-associated bloodstream infection (CABSI). Blood culture results from patients interned between March 2020 and December 2021 (n= 109) were collected electronically from the hospital information system and then analyzed. The following variables presented statistical relevance after an adjusted model as follows: obesity (p = 0.003) and time of use of catheter before infection (p = 0.019). In conclusion, patients with shorter catheter use time and obesity had higher incidence of CABSI.
Full article
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Open AccessArticle
Characterization of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase Producing- and Carbapenem–Resistant Escherichia coli Isolated from Diarrheic Dogs in Tunisia: First Report of blaIMP Gene in Companion Animals
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Asma Ben Haj Yahia, Ghassan Tayh, Sarrah Landolsi, Ala Maazaoui, Faten Ben Chehida, Aymen Mamlouk, Monia Dâaloul-Jedidi and Lilia Messadi
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(3), 1119-1133; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15030075 - 30 Jun 2024
Abstract
Escherichia coli is an important opportunistic pathogen, causing several infections in dogs. The antimicrobial resistance of E. coli occurring in companion animals becomes an emerging problem. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli in diarrheic dogs, investigate the occurrence
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Escherichia coli is an important opportunistic pathogen, causing several infections in dogs. The antimicrobial resistance of E. coli occurring in companion animals becomes an emerging problem. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli in diarrheic dogs, investigate the occurrence and molecular characterization of carbapenem-resistant isolates, and determine their virulence genes. Fecal samples were collected from 150 diarrheic dogs in Tunisia. E. coli isolates were screened for antimicrobial resistance against 21 antibiotics by the disk diffusion method. The characterization of β-lactamase genes, associated resistance genes, and virulence genes was studied using PCR. Among 95 E. coli strains, 25 were ESBL-producing, and most of them were multidrug-resistant. The most prevalent β-lactamase genes were blaCTX-M1 (n = 14), blaTEM (n = 3), and blaCMY (n = 2). The blaIMP carbapenemase gene was found in two carbapenem-resistant isolates, which showed that carbapenemase-producing E. coli spread to companion animals in Tunisia. Different virulence genes associated with extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli were detected. This is the first report of the characterization of carbapenem resistance and virulence genes in dogs in North Africa. Our study showed that diarrheic dogs in Tunisia can be a potential reservoir of ESBL- or carbapenemase-producing E. coli with a possible risk of transmission to humans.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zoonotic Bacteria: Infection, Pathogenesis and Drugs)
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Open AccessCommunication
Clonality Analysis of Streptococcus pneumoniae in Clinical Specimens
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Delly Chipta Lestari, Pranee Somboonthum, Daisuke Motooka, Eiji Ishii, Shigeaki Matsuda, Anis Karuniawati and Tetsuya Iida
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(3), 1110-1118; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15030074 - 29 Jun 2024
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Pneumococcal pneumonia is a significant cause of illness and death globally, particularly among young children and the elderly. The cpsB gene is involved in the biosynthesis of the capsule polysaccharide, and polymorphisms in the cpsB gene are the basis for sequetyping, a molecular
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Pneumococcal pneumonia is a significant cause of illness and death globally, particularly among young children and the elderly. The cpsB gene is involved in the biosynthesis of the capsule polysaccharide, and polymorphisms in the cpsB gene are the basis for sequetyping, a molecular biology-based approach to serotyping. In this study, we attempted the sequetyping of pneumococci directly from clinical sputum specimens collected from adult patients diagnosed with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). We performed conventional PCR for the cpsB gene, followed by TA cloning and Sanger sequencing of the amplicon. The results showed the status of clonality of pneumococci in each specimen. We also performed real-time PCR targeting pneumococci for each specimen. It revealed a significant association between the Ct value of the real-time PCR and the clonality status of pneumococci among the specimens (p-value 0.0007 by Fisher’s exact test analysis). Specifically, when the Ct value was below 22, there was a high probability that pneumococcus existed as a single clone. Thus, this study demonstrates the possible correlation between pneumococcal clonality and bacterial load in clinical specimens, which might indicate the infection status.
Full article
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Open AccessCommunication
Effect of Buffer Room Configuration on Isolation of Bacteriophage phi6 and Micrococcus Luteus Emissions
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Radosław Wróbel, Monika Andrych-Zalewska, Jędrzej Matla, Justyna Molska, Gustaw Sierzputowski, Agnieszka Szulak, Radosław Włostowski, Adriana Włóka and Małgorzata Rutkowska-Gorczyca
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(3), 1099-1109; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15030073 - 27 Jun 2024
Abstract
In light of the growing need to mitigate viral infections, such as SARS-CoV-2, which has caused over 770 million infections and 7 million deaths worldwide, the role of architectural design in reducing pathogen spread has become paramount. This study explores how different buffer
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In light of the growing need to mitigate viral infections, such as SARS-CoV-2, which has caused over 770 million infections and 7 million deaths worldwide, the role of architectural design in reducing pathogen spread has become paramount. This study explores how different buffer room configurations impact microbial isolation using the bacterium Micrococcus luteus and bacteriophage phi6 as test organisms. Through a comprehensive approach integrating architecture, technology, and scientific methodologies, we developed strategies to optimise safe buffer environments. Comparative analyses of various isolation systems highlighted significant variations in their effectiveness at reducing bioaerosol concentrations, directly influenced by the design and layout of buffer rooms. These findings are crucial for the effective design of medical and public spaces, particularly during pandemics, where preventing virus transmission is critical for public health.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
First Seroepidemiological Study of Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Dromedaries (Camelus dromedarius) in Southern Tunisia
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Afef Jeljli, Syrine Rekik, Boubaker Ben Smida, Walid Chandoul, Limam Sassi and Mohamed Gharbi
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(3), 1091-1098; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15030072 - 25 Jun 2024
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is one of the most common zoonotic parasites worldwide, with infections in humans as well as in all mammals, including dromedaries, that affect reproductive health, leading to malformations and abortions. In the current study, we estimated, for the first time in
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Toxoplasma gondii is one of the most common zoonotic parasites worldwide, with infections in humans as well as in all mammals, including dromedaries, that affect reproductive health, leading to malformations and abortions. In the current study, we estimated, for the first time in Tunisia, the seroprevalence of T. gondii antibodies and its associated risk factors in dromedaries (Camelus dromedarius) using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. A total of 248 sera samples were collected from dromedaries living in Médenine and Tataouine governorates, South Tunisia. The overall seroprevalence of T. gondii was estimated to be 29.8 ± 2.9% (74/248) with a significantly higher seroprevalence rate in dromedaries from Médenine (52.5 ± 7.9%; 21/40) compared to Tataouine (25.5 ± 3%; 53/208); it was also higher in dromedaries kept in intensive farming systems (55 ± 11.1%; 11/20) compared to extensive systems (27.6 ± 3%; 63/228), in non-pregnant females (39 ± 4%; 57/146) compared to pregnant ones (16.7 ± 3.7%; 17/102), and in those in contact with cats (66.7 ± 8.6%; 20/30) compared to those with no contact with cats (24.8 ± 2.9%; 54/218). The present study should be followed by others to explore the role of dromedaries in the epidemiological cycle of T. gondii in Southern Tunisia.
Full article
Open AccessCommunication
Multidrug-Resistant Enterococcus faecium and Enterococcus faecalis Isolated from Dogs and Cats in Southern Brazil
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Letícia da Silva, Cristina Zaffari Grecellé, Ana Paula Guedes Frazzon, André Felipe Streck, Diéssy Kipper, André Salvador Kazantzi Fonseca, Nilo Ikuta and Vagner Ricardo Lunge
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(3), 1083-1090; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15030071 - 25 Jun 2024
Abstract
Enterococcus spp. are isolated from infections of domestic animals and can present resistance to different antimicrobials. This study aimed to identify the main species of Enterococcus and determine the phenotypic resistance to antimicrobials of isolates of this bacterial genus obtained from dogs and
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Enterococcus spp. are isolated from infections of domestic animals and can present resistance to different antimicrobials. This study aimed to identify the main species of Enterococcus and determine the phenotypic resistance to antimicrobials of isolates of this bacterial genus obtained from dogs and cats admitted to a veterinary hospital in southern Brazil. A total of 57 Enterococcus spp. were isolated from different clinical samples (urine, feces, ears and skin) in domestic animals admitted to the hospital over a period of three years (2016 to 2019). MALDI-TOF results demonstrated the occurrence of Enterococcus faecium (39; 68.4%), Enterococcus faecalis (17; 29.8%) and Enterococcus avium (1; 1.8%). In an overall analysis, resistance was observed to the antimicrobials rifampicin (46; 80.7%), tetracycline and streptomycin (42; 73.7%), ampicillin and imipenem (41; 71.9%), erythromycin (39; 68.4%), gentamicin (38; 66.7%), ciprofloxacin (36; 63.2%), norfloxacin (32; 56.1%), nitrofurantoin (10; 17.5%) and chloramphenicol (9; 15.7%). None of the Enterococcus spp. showed resistance to vancomycin and linezolid. Multidrug resistance (MDR) was detected in 45 (78.9%) isolates. In conclusion, E. faecium and E. faecalis with MDR are frequent in infections of hospitalized dogs and cats from southern Brazil.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Comparative Mortality Analysis in Febrile and Afebrile Emergency Department Patients with Positive Blood Cultures: A Retrospective Study
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Nicola Bonadia, Davide Antonio Della Polla, Rita Murri, Tiziana D’Inzeo, Barbara Fiori, Annamaria Carnicelli, Andrea Piccioni, Mariella Fuorlo, Martina Petrucci, Angela Saviano, Antonio Gasbarrini, Francesco Franceschi and Marcello Covino
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(3), 1073-1082; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15030070 - 22 Jun 2024
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This retrospective analysis at a major Italian university hospital (January 2018–September 2022) assessed the prognostic significance of fever in patients with bloodstream infections (BSIs). Of the 1299 patients with positive blood cultures, a comparison between febrile and afebrile patients at emergency department admission
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This retrospective analysis at a major Italian university hospital (January 2018–September 2022) assessed the prognostic significance of fever in patients with bloodstream infections (BSIs). Of the 1299 patients with positive blood cultures, a comparison between febrile and afebrile patients at emergency department admission was conducted. This study particularly focused on the mortality rates associated with these two groups. Notably, afebrile patients exhibited a higher mortality rate. The odds ratio for mortality in afebrile patients was significantly higher compared to febrile patients. This suggests that the absence of fever might be an indicator of increased mortality risk, highlighting the complexity of diagnosing bloodstream infections based on fever presence. This study contributes to the understanding of fever as a diagnostic marker in emergency settings.
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Open AccessArticle
Xylella fastidiosa Dispersion on Vegetal Hosts in Demarcated Zones in the North Region of Portugal
by
Talita Loureiro, Luís Serra, Ângela Martins, Isabel Cortez and Patrícia Poeta
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(3), 1050-1072; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15030069 - 21 Jun 2024
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The detection of Xylella fastidiosa in Portugal occurred through prospection in 2019 in Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto, in plants of Lavandula dentata L. Currently, in Portugal, there are 18 Xylella fastidiosa Demarcated Zones (DZs). The main objective of this study is to
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The detection of Xylella fastidiosa in Portugal occurred through prospection in 2019 in Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto, in plants of Lavandula dentata L. Currently, in Portugal, there are 18 Xylella fastidiosa Demarcated Zones (DZs). The main objective of this study is to gain a comprehensive understanding of this problem within the defined Demarcated Zones in the North Region of Portugal from 2019 to June 2023. This work comprised two phases: the prospection phase (inspecting plants, sampling, and submission of samples to the laboratory) and the research phase (collecting and organizing data and statistical treatment). Our findings provide essential insights, suggesting that the Northern Region of Portugal is highly conducive to Xylella fastidiosa. Portugal has Xf-preferred hosts such as the olive tree, orange tree, Laurus nobilis, Rosa spp., Nerium oleander L., Pelargonium sp., Hedera helix L., and Lavandula dentata L. Portugal’s favorable environmental factors such as temperature and humidity can have an important role in influencing the interaction between bacteria and hosts. Nevertheless, it is crucial to consider variations in the behavior of insect vectors, as these variations can limit the prevalence of the disease. Activities like the transport of infected planting materials from the first Demarcated Zone of the Area Metropolitana do Porto could be associated with the introduction and spread of Xylella fastidiosa, potentially triggering new disease outbreaks in the country. Our findings confirm the alarming spread of Xylella fastidiosa across Portugal. Factors such as the presence of insect vectors, abundance of host plants, and climate suitability play pivotal roles in Xylella fastidiosa dispersal. We recommend that countries identified with relatively high risk, like Portugal, undertake thorough individual risk analyses. The implementation of preventive measures and, if necessary, the enhancement of surveillance systems for early detection of Xylella fastidiosa in plants and insect vectors are crucial steps.
Full article
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Open AccessReview
Green Microbe Profile: Rhizophagus intraradices—A Review of Benevolent Fungi Promoting Plant Health and Sustainability
by
Helen N. Onyeaka, Adenike A. Akinsemolu, Kehinde Favour Siyanbola and Victoria Ademide Adetunji
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(2), 1028-1049; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15020068 - 18 Jun 2024
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Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) such as Rhizophagus intraradices (formerly known as Glomus intraradices) are of great importance to maintaining the soil ecosystem while supporting sustainable agriculture and practices. This review explores the taxonomy of Rhizophagus intraradices, their attributes, mycorrhizal symbiosis, plant
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Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) such as Rhizophagus intraradices (formerly known as Glomus intraradices) are of great importance to maintaining the soil ecosystem while supporting sustainable agriculture and practices. This review explores the taxonomy of Rhizophagus intraradices, their attributes, mycorrhizal symbiosis, plant growth improvement, nutrient recycling in the soil, soil health and environmental rehabilitation, and challenges that impede the effective use of AMF in agriculture. AMF impacts soil structure by releasing organic compounds like glomalin, improving total organic carbon and water-holding capacity, and reducing water scarcity. AMF, in sustainable agriculture, not only improves crop productivity through nutrient uptake but also enhances soil fertility and plants’ resistance to so-called stress from abiotic factors as well. The integration of AMF with other beneficial microorganisms in organic farming will be powerful both to ensure long-term soil output and to protect food from bacteria. Nevertheless, chemical inputs and spatial biases of the researchers remain matters to be solved in connection with the broad feasibility of AMF use.
Full article
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Open AccessCase Report
The First Report on Saprolegnia parasitica and Neoparamoeba perurans Isolated from Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) Reared in Korea
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Dong-Hwi Kim, Min-Soo Joo, Soo-Ji Woo, Kwang-Tae Son, Woo-Seok Hong, Mun-Chang Park, Jin-Chul Park and Sung-Oh Park
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(2), 1016-1027; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15020067 - 18 Jun 2024
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This study is the first report of parasite and fungal disease separated from domestically reared Atlantic salmon in Korea; the characteristics of the pathogens were identified, and histopathological analysis was conducted. Fungal and parasitic diseases were detected in Atlantic salmon and were isolated
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This study is the first report of parasite and fungal disease separated from domestically reared Atlantic salmon in Korea; the characteristics of the pathogens were identified, and histopathological analysis was conducted. Fungal and parasitic diseases were detected in Atlantic salmon and were isolated as Saprolegnia parasitica and Neoparamoeba perurans based on morphological and genetic analysis. External symptoms observed in Atlantic salmon infected with S. parasitica include fin ulcers and hemorrhage, abdominal hemorrhage, and necrosis of the gills and gill covers. The histopathological analysis results showed necrosis, hemorrhaging, and inflammatory cell infiltration in the abdominal muscles, while only inflammatory cell infiltration was observed in the gill covers. The clinical symptoms observed in Atlantic salmon infected with N. perurans included excessive mucus secretion in the gills, a dense amoebic presence on the gill filaments, respiratory distress, and opening of the mouth and gill covers after death. Through histopathological analysis, we observed lesions in epithelial cells, characterized by the proliferation of epithelial cells and the fusion of secondary lamellae. Numerous lamellae were observed to be attached or fused with each other. To ensure the successful establishment of the Atlantic salmon aquaculture industry in Korea, it is essential to swiftly quarantine infected fish based on the morphological characteristics of S. parasitica and N. perurans revealed in this study, along with the external symptoms of Atlantic salmon infected with these pathogens. Developing disease control strategies based on the findings of this research is imperative.
Full article
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Open AccessBrief Report
Gender, Immunological Response, and COVID-19: An Assessment of Vaccine Strategies in a Pandemic Region of Oaxaca, México
by
Luis M. Rodríguez-Martínez, José L. Chavelas-Reyes, Carlo F. Medina-Ramírez, Francisco J. Cabrera-Santos, Nadia A. Fernández-Santos, Jesús A. Aguilar-Durán, Sonia M. Pérez-Tapia, Josefina G. Rodríguez-González and Mario A. Rodríguez Pérez
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(2), 1007-1015; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15020066 - 17 Jun 2024
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COVID-19 is no longer a public health emergency of international concern, but long COVID’s effects are yet to be fully understood. Hence, globally, SARS-CoV-2 is still a profound threat to public health and of perilous nature as a zoonotic disease. Timely vaccination provided
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COVID-19 is no longer a public health emergency of international concern, but long COVID’s effects are yet to be fully understood. Hence, globally, SARS-CoV-2 is still a profound threat to public health and of perilous nature as a zoonotic disease. Timely vaccination provided to individuals worldwide during the pandemic phase was under a certain degree of control; however, few studies have reported the effectiveness of vaccines administered in Mexico, and its surveillance is paramount. Furthermore, an unknown proportion of Mexican individuals have not yet received any vaccine, and the circulation of the Omicron, Pirola, and FLiRT variants is ongoing. A cross-sectional serology survey study design was employed, involving 150 individuals from Southern Mexico (Oaxaca) whose humoral immune responses after vaccination were tested by an ELISA; the receptor-binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein served as a recombinant antigen in the ELISA. One hundred thirty-nine out of 150 individuals (92.6%; 95%-CI = 87–95%) examined were positive for the ELISA, but in 11 individuals, the vaccines did not induce any immune response. Interestingly, the immune responses (antibody prevalence and levels) of females (58%) were higher (T= −2.21; p-value = 0.02) than those of males (41%). However, in this sample population of Southern Mexico, age, vaccine type, comorbidity, and body mass index did not have any effect (p > 0.05) after COVID-19 vaccination. Taking all results together, here, we present factors that affected immune responses of individuals during the first vaccination campaign in Oaxaca, Mexico; however, vaccine surveillance during the post-pandemic phase needs further investigation.
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Open AccessArticle
Etiology of Four Waves of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Ukraine according to the SARS-CoV-2 Virus Genome Sequencing Data: A Pilot Study
by
Alla Mironenko, Ihor Kravchuk, Larysa Radchenko, Nataliia Teteriuk, Olha Holubka, Liudmyla Bolotova, Mykola Pydiura and Andriy Goy
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(2), 994-1006; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15020065 - 13 Jun 2024
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The COVID-19 pandemic in Ukraine, from March 2020 to June 2022, witnessed distinct waves, each characterized by an increase in cases and fatalities. Next-generation sequencing has been used to understand the impact of viral variants on the pandemic situation in Ukraine. We analyzed
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The COVID-19 pandemic in Ukraine, from March 2020 to June 2022, witnessed distinct waves, each characterized by an increase in cases and fatalities. Next-generation sequencing has been used to understand the impact of viral variants on the pandemic situation in Ukraine. We analyzed SARS-CoV-2 genome sequencing data to identify viral variants circulating during each wave. By integrating epidemiological information, we established associations between viral variants and disease spread. The adoption of next-generation sequencing for SARS-CoV-2 surveillance in Ukraine, despite limited resources, yielded adequate and trustworthy results, reflecting the pandemic situation. After the Russian military invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, a large number of refugees crossed the border with neighboring countries. Mutation analysis on sequencing data from Ukraine and Poland was used to estimate the exchange of SARS-CoV-2 variants between the countries during this period. Omicron subvariants detected in both countries were similar. The analysis of SARS-CoV-2 sequences from Poland and Ukraine revealed shared nucleotide mutations that can be used to identify the directions of spreading.
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Open AccessReview
Endophytic Fungi in Rice Plants and Their Prospective Uses
by
Yingping Hu, Guodong Lu, Dongmei Lin, Hailin Luo, Mediatrice Hatungimana, Bin Liu and Zhanxi Lin
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(2), 972-993; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15020064 - 12 Jun 2024
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In a long-term evolution, fungal endophytes have formed a mutually beneficial relationship with host plants. Therefore, what roles do fungal endophytes play in the growth and development of rice, one of the major food crops in the world, and agricultural production? This mini-review
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In a long-term evolution, fungal endophytes have formed a mutually beneficial relationship with host plants. Therefore, what roles do fungal endophytes play in the growth and development of rice, one of the major food crops in the world, and agricultural production? This mini-review aims to highlight the diversity, identification, colonization, function, and mechanism of action of endophytic fungi isolated from rice tissues through a literature review; comprehensively expound the interaction mechanism between rice fungal endophytes and their hosts in stimulating the growth of rice plants and alleviating biological and abiotic stresses on plants; and contribute new ideas for rice production and a sustainable rice industry. Additionally, rice fungal endophytes, as a new resource, have broad prospects in the development of biopesticides, biocontrol agents, and new medicine.
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Open AccessReview
Outcomes of Microbiological Challenges in Poultry Transport: A Mini Review of the Reasons for Effective Bacterial Control
by
Vinícius Machado dos Santos, Gabriel da Silva Oliveira, Cristiane Batista Salgado, Paula Gabriela da Silva Pires, Pedro Henrique Gomes de Sá Santos and Concepta McManus
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(2), 962-971; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15020063 - 7 Jun 2024
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This review aims to highlight the main microbiological challenges faced in poultry transport and show the role of effective bacterial control during this process to ensure poultry health and meat safety and to reduce economic losses. Poultry infections are among the most frequent
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This review aims to highlight the main microbiological challenges faced in poultry transport and show the role of effective bacterial control during this process to ensure poultry health and meat safety and to reduce economic losses. Poultry infections are among the most frequent infections in production systems, manifesting themselves in hatcheries, farms, slaughterhouses, and during transport between these integration centers. Although the clinical symptoms of these infections can range from mild to severe, many of them can lead to irreversible conditions, resulting in death and compromising productive results. Bacteria are the main causative agents of these infections, although fungi, viruses, and protozoa may also be involved. During the transport of poultry from farms to slaughterhouses, poultry are very vulnerable to infectious conditions. Therefore, implementing effective antibacterial management, focused on professionals, transport crates, and transport vehicles, is essential to guarantee the survival and quality of poultry until the moment of slaughter.
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Open AccessArticle
Biochemical and Molecular Analysis of Gut Microbial Changes in Spodoptera littoralis (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) to Counteract Cry1c Toxicity
by
Abeer Abd El Aziz, Saad Moussa, Mohamed T. Yassin, Iman El Husseiny and Samar El Kholy
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(2), 943-961; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15020062 - 6 Jun 2024
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Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) represents one of the most economical biopesticides to date. It produces toxins with insecticidal activity against many agricultural pests, including members of the genus Spodoptera. However, Bt tolerance leads to inefficiency in biological control. To overcome this
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Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) represents one of the most economical biopesticides to date. It produces toxins with insecticidal activity against many agricultural pests, including members of the genus Spodoptera. However, Bt tolerance leads to inefficiency in biological control. To overcome this problem, discovering the hidden cause(s) for the evolution of insect tolerance against Bt is of great importance. We hypothesized that changes in the gut microbiota due to the frequent application of Bt is one of those hidden causes. To investigate this hypothesis, we studied the effect of Bt Cry1c application on the Spodoptera littoralis larval gut microbiota in both Bt-susceptible and Bt-tolerant populations. The results revealed changes in the diversity and abundance of gut bacterial composition between the susceptible and tolerant populations. A high abundance of Enterococcaceae was detected in the tolerant population. Interestingly, Cry1c tolerance eliminates the bacterial genera Klebsiella and Serratia from the larval midgut. These changes may confirm the mechanism developed by Spodoptera larvae to counteract Bt Cry1c toxicity. Understanding the B. thuringiensis–gut microbiota interaction may help in improving biocontrol strategies against agricultural pests to overcome the evolution of tolerance.
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Open AccessArticle
New Insights into the Potential Inhibitory Effects of Native Plants from Cyprus on Pathogenic Bacteria and Diabetes-Related Enzymes
by
Atalanti Christou, Constantina Stavrou, Christodoulos Michael, George Botsaris and Vlasios Goulas
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(2), 926-942; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15020061 - 29 May 2024
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Plants possess endless structural and chemical diversity, which is peerless with any synthetic library of small biomolecules, inspiring novel drug discovery. Plants are widely applied to encounter global health challenges such as antimicrobial resistance and diabetes. The objective of this work was to
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Plants possess endless structural and chemical diversity, which is peerless with any synthetic library of small biomolecules, inspiring novel drug discovery. Plants are widely applied to encounter global health challenges such as antimicrobial resistance and diabetes. The objective of this work was to evaluate the antibacterial and antidiabetic potency of native plants grown in Cyprus. All plants were sequentially extracted with solvents of increasing polarity, namely hexane, acetone, methanol, and water. First, the phenolic and flavonoid contents of the extracts were assessed. Afterwards, the bacteriostatic and bactericidal potency of plant extracts were tested against a panel of six bacteria using the broth microdilution method, whereas the inhibitory effects on alpha-glucosidase and alpha-amylase enzymes were also determined with the employment of microplate assays. The results highlighted the superiority of Sarcopoterium spinosum as a potential enzyme inhibitor, while a knowledge base was also acquired for the inhibitory potential of all plants. Daucus carota, Ferula communis, and Tordylium.aegyptiacum displayed additionally outstanding bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects on Gram-positive bacteria at concentrations of 250 µg mL−1 and 500 µg mL−1. Overall, the present study describes the antibacterial and inhibitory activity against carbohydrate digestive enzymes of native plants grown in Cyprus delivering the first reports for many plant species.
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