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Over the past five decades, the Fontan procedure has been developed to improve the life expectancy of patients with congenital heart defects characterized by a functionally single ventricle. The Fontan circulation aims at redirecting systemic venous return to the pulmonary circulation in the absence of an impelling subpulmonary ventricle, which makes this physiology quite fragile and leads to several long-term complications. Despite the importance of hemodynamic assessment through cardiac catheterization in the management and follow-up of these patients, a thorough understanding of the ultimate functioning of this type of circulation is lacking, and the interpretation of the hemodynamic data is often complex. In recent years, new tools such as combined catheterization with cardiopulmonary exercise testing have been incorporated to improve the understanding of the hemodynamic profile of these patients. Furthermore, extensive percutaneous treatment options have been developed, addressing issues ranging from obstructive problems in Fontan pathway and acquired shunts through compensatory collaterals to the percutaneous treatment of lymphatic circulation disorders and transcatheter edge-to-edge repair of atrioventricular valves. The aim of this review is to detail the various tools used in cardiac catheterization for patients with Fontan circulation, analyze different percutaneous treatment strategies, and discuss the latest advancements in this field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Congenital Heart Disease: Advances in Clinical Diagnosis and Management)

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18 pages, 674 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Barriers to Implementing Environmental Sustainability in UAE Construction Project Management: Identification and Comparison of ISO 14001-Certified and Non-Certified Firms

by Hamdi Bashir, Ammar Al-Hawarneh, Salah Haridy, Mohammed Shamsuzzaman and Ridvan Aydin

Sustainability 2024, 16(16), 6779; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16166779 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2024

Abstract

Firms in the construction industry are under increasing pressure from regulatory bodies, clients, and the public to integrate sustainability into their business strategies. However, they encounter numerous barriers that hinder the implementation of environmental sustainability practices in construction project management. This study aimed to examine these barriers within the context of the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE’s) construction industry. To achieve this, the research employed a mixed-method approach. Initially, interviews were conducted to identify the prevalent barriers, resulting in the identification of twelve key barriers. Subsequently, a structured questionnaire was distributed to project managers from 90 firms, both ISO 14001-certified and non-certified, to rank these barriers and assess their significance. The findings revealed that “economic benefits placed above meeting environmental sustainability requirements” was the most critical barrier. Through factor analysis, three latent factors were extracted: (1) organizational and policy barriers, (2) compliance and resource efficiency barriers, and (3) sustainable design implementation barriers. Notably, significant differences were observed between ISO 14001-certified and non-certified firms, particularly regarding the importance of “economic benefits placed above meeting environmental sustainability requirements” and “insufficient consultation with stakeholders”. This study highlights the critical barriers to implementing environmental sustainability practices in the UAE’s construction industry and provides actionable suggestions for policymakers and decision-makers to overcome these challenges, with implications for similar environments worldwide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management)

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17 pages, 1314 KiB

Open AccessReview

Central Nervous System Involvement in Systemic Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases—Diagnosis and Treatment

by Aline Santana Juncker, Simone Appenzeller and Jean Marcos de Souza

Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(8), 1044; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17081044 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2024

Abstract

Central nervous system (CNS) involvement in autoimmune rheumatic diseases represents a significant challenge for clinicians across all specialties. While most reviews on the subject focus on neurological manifestations within a specific rheumatic disease, few descriptions shift from neurological clinical syndromes to achieve rheumatological diagnoses. This narrative review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the diagnosis and management of CNS manifestations occurring in the most prevalent rheumatic conditions in adults. We searched the MEDLINE database using the terms “central nervous system”, “rheumatic diseases”, “systemic lupus erythematosus”, “rheumatoid arthritis”, “Sjögren syndrome”, and “vasculitis”. The search strategy included review articles from 2019 to 2024, published in English, Spanish, or Portuguese. We explored the pathophysiological mechanisms linking autoimmunity to CNS pathology, emphasizing the role of syndromic reasoning, autoantibody profiles, and imaging modalities as tools for diagnosis and determination of inflammatory activity. The review also discusses differential diagnoses through a stepwise approach to neurological syndromes, summarized in diagnostic flowcharts, and presents updated treatment options. Although our approach is primarily semiology-based, the complexity of the subject invites future endeavors involving new technologies, such as functional MRI, MR spectroscopy, and nuclear medicine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology)

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11 pages, 1124 KiB

Open AccessReview

Antiarrhythmic Drug Use in Pregnancy: Considerations and Safety Profiles

by Marco Valerio Mariani, Nicola Pierucci, Vincenzo Mirco La Fazia, Pietro Cipollone, Marco Micillo, Andrea D’Amato, Francesca Fanisio, Giuseppe Ammirati, Nethuja Salagundla, Carlo Lavalle and Marco Alfonso Perrone

J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2024, 11(8), 243; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd11080243 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2024

Abstract

Pregnancy entails notable physiological alterations and hormonal fluctuations that affect the well-being of both the fetus and the mother. Cardiovascular events and arrhythmias are a major concern during pregnancy, especially in women with comorbidities or a history of arrhythmias. This paper provides an overview of the prevalence, therapies, and prognoses of different types of arrhythmias during pregnancy. The administration of antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) during pregnancy demands careful consideration because of their possible effect on the mother and fetus. AADs can cross the placenta or be present in breast milk, potentially leading to adverse effects such as teratogenicity, growth restriction, or premature birth. The safety profiles of different classes of AADs are discussed. Individualized treatment approaches and close monitoring of pregnant women prescribed AADs are essential to ensure optimal maternal and fetal outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Clinical Research)

26 pages, 766 KiB

Open AccessReview

Biomarkers in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction: A Perpetually Evolving Frontier

by Ana-Maria Vrabie, Stefan Totolici, Caterina Delcea and Elisabeta Badila

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(16), 4627; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13164627 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2024

Abstract

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) represents a complex clinical syndrome, often very difficult to diagnose using the available tools. As the global burden of this disease is constantly growing, surpassing the prevalence of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, during the last few years, efforts have focused on optimizing the diagnostic and prognostic pathways using an immense panel of circulating biomarkers. After the paradigm of HFpEF development emerged more than 10 years ago, suggesting the impact of multiple comorbidities on myocardial structure and function, several phenotypes of HFpEF have been characterized, with an attempt to find an ideal biomarker for each distinct pathophysiological pathway. Acknowledging the limitations of natriuretic peptides, hundreds of potential biomarkers have been evaluated, some of them demonstrating encouraging results. Among these, soluble suppression of tumorigenesis-2 reflecting myocardial remodeling, growth differentiation factor 15 as a marker of inflammation and albuminuria as a result of kidney dysfunction or, more recently, several circulating microRNAs have proved their incremental value. As the number of emerging biomarkers in HFpEF is rapidly expanding, in this review, we aim to explore the most promising available biomarkers linked to key pathophysiological mechanisms in HFpEF, outlining their utility for diagnosis, risk stratification and population screening, as well as their limitations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management of Patients with Heart Failure)

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12 pages, 502 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Knowledge and Attitude of Undergraduate Dental Students toward Dental Ergonomic Principles in Occupational Health

by Monika Tysiąc-Miśta, Maja Kruplewicz, Aleksandra Grzyb, Arkadiusz Dziedzic and Marta Tanasiewicz

Healthcare 2024, 12(16), 1566; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12161566 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2024

Abstract

Background: Undergraduate dental curricula and courses containing ergonomic principles are introduced to students from the very beginning of dental education. Still, dentists present a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, which are a direct burden on quality of life, leading to early retirement from the profession. This study aimed to assess the state of students’ knowledge and awareness regarding the role of ergonomics in dentistry and its practical implementation. Methods: a cross-sectional study using a predesigned self-administered questionnaire was conducted among fourth- and fifth-year dental students of the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Poland (response rate of 69.2%). Results: A total of 94.6% of students declared a good, fair, or moderate level of knowledge of the subject, with a significant difference in favor of the fifth-year students (p = 0.008). Moreover, 76.1% of respondents showed a good or very good attitude toward ergonomics as a university curriculum subject. A total of 72.3% of respondents declared that the practical application of ergonomic rules in clinical dentistry is very important (five in a five-point scale). Women found dental ergonomics more important than men (p < 0.001). However, 79.3% of participants admitted not following basic ergonomic principles during clinical procedures. Conclusion: The research revealed a discrepancy between theoretical knowledge and awareness and the practical application of ergonomics in a clinical environment. Only by inculcating correct occupational standards and abiding by them from the commencement of dental education can consistency between theory and practice be achieved. This will hopefully ensure the health and well-being of dental team members throughout their professional lives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Research in Work-Related Diseases, Safety and Health)

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19 pages, 2118 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Salt, Potassium, and Iodine Intake in the Croatian Adult Population Using 24 h Urinary Collection: The EH-UH 2 Study

by Mihaela Marinović Glavić, Lovorka Bilajac, Marta Bolješić, Marija Bubaš, Krunoslav Capak, Marija Domislović, Aleksandar Džakula, Mirjana Fuček, Lana Gellineo, Ana Jelaković, Josipa Josipović, Tomislav Jukić, Denis Juraga, Ivan Pećin, Vladimir Prelević, Danilo Radunović, Željko Reiner, Tomislav Rukavina, Petar Šušnjara, Vanja Vasiljev, Valentina Vidranski and Bojan Jelaković Show full author list Hide full author list

Nutrients 2024, 16(16), 2599; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16162599 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2024

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases, which are the leading cause of death in Croatia, are linked to the high prevalence of hypertension. Both are associated with high salt intake, which was determined almost two decades ago when Croatian Action on Salt and Health (CRASH) was launched. The main objective of the present study was to evaluate salt, potassium, and iodine intake using a single 24 h urine sample in a random sample of the adult Croatian population and to analyse trends in salt consumption after the CRASH was intensively started. Methods: In this study, we analysed data on 1067 adult participants (mean age 57.12 (SD 13.9), men 35%). Results: Mean salt and potassium intakes were 8.6 g/day (IQR 6.2–11.2) and 2.8 g/day (IQR 2.1–3.5), respectively, with a sodium-to-potassium ratio of 2.6 (IQR 1.8–3.3). We detected a decrease of 17.6% (2 g/day less) in salt consumption compared with our previous salt-mapping study. However, only 13.7% and 8.9% met the WHO salt and potassium recommended targets of 5 g/day and 3.5 g/day, respectively. Salt intake was higher, and potassium ingestion was lower, in rural vs. urban regions and in continental vs. Mediterranean parts of Croatia. Moderate to severe iodine insufficiency was determined in only 3% of the adult participants. Conclusion: In the last fifteen years, salt consumption has been significantly reduced in the Croatian adult population because of the intensive and broad CRASH program. However, salt intake is still too high, and potassium ingestion is too low. Salt reduction programs are the most cost-effective methods of cardiovascular disease prevention and merit greater consideration by the government and health policy makers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Population Sodium Intake: Impacts on Cardiovascular Health)

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13 pages, 270 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chrono-Nutrition, Chrono-Type, and the Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a Cross-Sectional Study from the EuroPean Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) Study

by Leila Luján-Barroso, Hernando J. Margara-Escudero, Marta Crous-Bou, José María Huerta, María-Dolores Chirlaque, Esther Molina-Montes, María José Sánchez, Marcela Guevara, Conchi Moreno-Iribas, Pilar Amiano, Olatz Mokoroa, Sonia González, Antonio Agudo, José Ramón Quirós and Paula Jakszyn

Nutrients 2024, 16(16), 2598; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16162598 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2024

Abstract

Background: Previous studies have shown that meal timing, poor sleep quality, and chronotype may play a relevant role in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, its relationship with macronutrients by eating occasions has not been explored deeply. Objective: Our aim was to estimate the association between chrono-nutrition, sleep quality, chronotype, and the prevalence of T2DM. Methods: This cross-sectional study included a subset of 3465 middle-aged Caucasian adults (2068 women) from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) Spain cohort study. In the 2017–18 follow-up, we assessed chronotype, sleep quality, diet, and sociodemographic data using validated questionnaires. Further, we used blood samples to determine serum levels of glucose. We defined a case of T2DM when serum glucose concentration was ≥126 mg/dL or when participants self-reported diabetes. Results: A higher prevalence of T2DM was associated with poor sleep quality (OR_poorvsgood = 2.90, 95% CI = 1.30, 6.28). Carbohydrate intake at breakfast was inversely associated with the prevalence of T2DM (OR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.66, 0.85). Finally, lipid intake at breakfast was associated with a 13% higher prevalence of T2DM (OR = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.01, 1.26) for each 1 standard deviation (1-SD) increase. Conclusions: This study concludes that a higher content of carbohydrates at breakfast is correlated with a reduced prevalence of T2DM, while higher lipids intake at breakfast is associated with a higher prevalence of T2DM. Furthermore, poor sleep quality is a potential factor associated with an elevated prevalence of T2DM. Our results emphasize the need for prospective studies to validate and strengthen these observed associations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Diabetes)

13 pages, 5958 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hydrogen Bond Strengthens Acceptor Group: The Curious Case of the C–H···O=C Bond

by Kingshuk Basu, Esther S. Brielle and Isaiah T. Arkin

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(16), 8606; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25168606 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2024

Abstract

An H-bond involves the sharing of a hydrogen atom between an electronegative atom to which it is covalently bound (the donor) and another electronegative atom serving as an acceptor. Such bonds represent a critically important geometrical force in biological macromolecules and, as such, have been characterized extensively. H-bond formation invariably leads to a weakening within the acceptor moiety due to the pulling exerted by the donor hydrogen. This phenomenon can be compared to a spring connecting two masses; pulling one mass stretches the spring, similarly affecting the bond between the two masses. Herein, we describe the opposite phenomenon when investigating the energetics of the C–H···O=C bond. This bond underpins the most prevalent protein transmembrane dimerization motif (GxxxG) in which a glycine Cα-H on one helix forms a hydrogen bond with a carbonyl in a nearby helix. We use isotope-edited FT-IR spectroscopy and corroborating computational approaches to demonstrate a surprising strengthening of the acceptor C=O bond upon binding with the glycine Cα-H. We show that electronic factors associated with the Cα-H bond strengthen the C=O oscillator by increasing the s-character of the σ-bond, lowering the hyperconjugative disruption of the π-bond. In addition, a reduction of the acceptor C=O bond’s polarity is observed upon the formation of the C–H···O=C bond. Our findings challenge the conventional understanding of H-bond dynamics and provide new insights into the structural stability of inter-helical protein interactions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biophysics)

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26 pages, 14369 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Smart City Community Watch—Camera-Based Community Watch for Traffic and Illegal Dumping

by Nupur Pathak, Gangotri Biswal, Megha Goushal, Vraj Mistry, Palak Shah, Fenglian Li and Jerry Gao

Smart Cities 2024, 7(4), 2232-2257; https://doi.org/10.3390/smartcities7040088 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2024

Abstract

The United States is the second-largest waste generator in the world, generating 4.9 pounds (2.2 kg) of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) per person each day. The excessive amount of waste generated poses serious health and environmental risks, especially because of the prevalence of illegal dumping practices, including improper waste disposal in unauthorized areas. To clean up illegal dumping, the government spends approximately USD 600 per ton, which amounts to USD 178 billion per year. Municipalities face a critical challenge to detect and prevent illegal dumping activities. Current techniques to detect illegal dumping have limited accuracy in detection and do not support an integrated solution of detecting dumping, identifying the vehicle, and a decision algorithm notifying the municipalities in real-time. To tackle this issue, an innovative solution has been developed, utilizing a You Only Look Once (YOLO) detector YOLOv5 for detecting humans, vehicles, license plates, and trash. The solution incorporates DeepSORT for effective identification of illegal dumping by analyzing the distance between a human and the trash’s bounding box. It achieved an accuracy of 97% in dumping detection after training on real-time examples and the COCO dataset covering both daytime and nighttime scenarios. This combination of YOLOv5, DeepSORT, and the decision module demonstrates robust capabilities in detecting dumping. The objective of this web-based application is to minimize the adverse effects on the environment and public health. By leveraging advanced object detection and tracking techniques, along with a user-friendly web application, it aims to promote a cleaner, healthier environment for everyone by reducing improper waste disposal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Smart Urban Infrastructures)

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12 pages, 1585 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fibromyalgia and Orofacial Health: Administration of a Dental Disease Assessment Questionnaire

by Francesco Puleio, Giorgio Lo Giudice, Alessandro Molica Colella, Maria Grazia Cannarozzo, Riccardo Polosa, Angela Alibrandi and Roberto Lo Giudice

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(16), 6908; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14166908 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2024

Abstract

Aim: This study examines the prevalence and severity of orofacial disorders in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). The research assesses the correlation with the Fibromyalgia Assessment Status (FAS) index. The goal is to improve the clinical approaches to these patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire focused on the correlation between FMS and orofacial problems. The research involved 107 rheumatology patients diagnosed with FMS. Statistical analyses, including Spearman’s correlation, were utilized to investigate the relationships between the FAS index scores and various orofacial symptoms. Results: Of the participants, 11.2% responded that they were aware of the correlation between fibromyalgia and oral health. The statistical analysis showed statistically significant correlations between the FAS index and symptoms such as gum bleeding, teeth grinding during the day, and neck pain (p < 0.05). The correlation between the FAS index and joint noise upon opening the mouth, as well as dissatisfaction with one’s smile, also proved to be highly significant (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The outcomes demonstrate that, as the FAS index increases, the likelihood of developing orofacial disorders also increases among FMS patients. This highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary treatment approach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Orofacial Pain: Diagnosis and Treatment)

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20 pages, 10477 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Bionic Design and Cutting Performance of Alfalfa Cutters Based on the Maxillary Mouthparts of Longicorn Beetles

by Jingyi Ma, Kun Wu, Ang Gao, Yonghui Du, Yuepeng Song and Longlong Ren

Agriculture 2024, 14(8), 1302; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14081302 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2024

Abstract

Inspired by the maxillary mouthparts of longicorn beetles, four types of bionic cutters were designed in this research to address the prevalent issues of high cutting resistance and severe stubble damage encountered during alfalfa harvesting. Finite element simulation was utilized to assess the structural integrity and cutting performance of these bionic cutters. Additionally, bench tests were conducted on a homemade stem-cutting force measurement and control rig to evaluate their effectiveness. The results indicated: (1) the bionic cutters achieved a reduction in maximum equivalent force ranging from 20.9% to 49.2% and a decrease in maximum deformation from 31.4% to 64.1% compared to conventional cutters; (2) the maximum cutting resistance of alfalfa stems was reduced by 28.6%, 43.9%, 52.4%, and 38.6%, significantly enhancing the flatness of the cut surfaces; (3) orthogonal bench tests demonstrated that the type of cutter and the slip-cutting angle significantly influenced the maximum cutting resistance of the stems (p < 0.01), with the optimal configuration being bionic cutter c, a slip-cutting angle of 10°, and a rotational speed of 2600 rpm. In conclusion, bionic cutters demonstrate substantial advantages in reducing maximum cutting resistance and improving the flatness of alfalfa stubble, suggesting their potential for widespread application and adoption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Technology)

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20 pages, 5105 KiB

Open AccessReview

Beyond the Obstructive Paradigm: Unveiling the Complex Landscape of Nonobstructive Coronary Artery Disease

by Andreea Tudurachi, Larisa Anghel, Bogdan-Sorin Tudurachi, Alexandra Zăvoi, Alexandr Ceasovschih, Radu Andy Sascău and Cristian Stătescu

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(16), 4613; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13164613 - 7 Aug 2024

Abstract

Traditionally focused on obstructive atherosclerosis, contemporary research indicates that up to 70% of patients undergoing coronary angiography for angina and ischemic symptoms do not exhibit significant stenoses. Nonobstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) has emerged as a prevalent phenotype among these patients. This review emphasizes the emerging understanding that nonobstructive coronary artery disease, encompassing conditions such as ANOCA (Angina with No Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease), INOCA (Ischemia with No Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease), and MINOCA (Myocardial Infarction with No Obstructive Coronary Arteries), represents the most prevalent phenotype in cardiac patients. It delves into the complex pathophysiology underlying these conditions, focusing on microvascular dysfunction and coronary vasoreactivity, which contribute to myocardial ischemia despite the absence of significant coronary obstructions. Additionally, the review critically examines the limitations of current treatments which primarily target obstructive lesions and underscores the necessity for tailored therapies that address the specific microvascular and immunoinflammatory pathways involved in nonobstructive CAD. The main focus of this review is to advocate for a shift in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to better identify and manage this widely prevalent yet under-recognized subset of CAD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cardiology)

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12 pages, 1586 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Zoonotic Enteric Nematodes and Dermatophytes in Cat Cafés: An Investigation in the Bangkok Metropolitan Area, Thailand

by Phakjira Sanguansook, Siwaporn Tuangpermsub, Boonyakorn Leelakarnsakul, Sutida Phaisansomsuk, Vachira Hunprasit, Laura Del Río, Waree Niyomtham, Nuvee Prapasarakul and Woraporn Sukhumavasi

Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(8), 358; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11080358 - 7 Aug 2024

Abstract

Cat cafés have gained significant popularity worldwide, offering a unique interface between humans and cats. The present study aims to assess the prevalence of potentially zoonotic endoparasites and dermatophytes from cats living in cat cafés situated in the Bangkok metropolitan area in 2017–2018. Cat fecal samples were subjected to microscopic examination employing centrifugal flotation and centrifugal sedimentation techniques. The hair samples from every cat were cultured on a dermatophyte test medium and Sabouraud dextrose agar and subsequently confirmed by visualization of the typical colony and macroconidia morphology. Findings from 11 cat cafés indicated an 18.2% (2/11) prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites, including Toxocara spp., Ancylostoma spp., Physaloptera spp., and Eucoleus aerophilus. Dermatophytes were prevalent in 16.2% (32/198) of the total number of cats tested, with Microsporum canis being the sole species identified. Notably, the presence of dermatophyte was significantly correlated with the presence of skin lesions and the cats’ origin. In summary, the findings of this study have provided evidence of potentially zoonotic endoparasites and dermatophytes in cats residing in cat cafés. Therefore, it is imperative to heighten awareness and encourage preventive measures among cat café owners and customers to halt the dissemination of these pathogens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology)

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17 pages, 1170 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Persistence of Salmonella and Campylobacter on Whole Chicken Carcasses under the Different Chlorine Concentrations Used in the Chill Tank of Processing Plants in Sri Lanka

by Gayani Weerasooriya, H. M. T. Dulakshi, P. S. de Alwis, Sandun Bandara, K. R. P. S. Premarathne, Nayanajith Dissanayake, N. Liyanagunawardena, M. I. Wijemuni and M. A. R. Priyantha

Pathogens 2024, 13(8), 664; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13080664 - 7 Aug 2024

Abstract

The persistence of non-typhoidal Salmonella and Campylobacter in chicken meat is a considerable public health risk and a future challenge. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Salmonella and Campylobacter in poultry processing lines where different chlorine concentrations were used in the chill tank. The samples were collected from four types of processing plants in Sri Lanka, considering the chlorine concentration used in the chill tank, which ranged from 2 ppm to 50 ppm. Salmonella and Campylobacter were isolated from whole carcass washings, neck skin, and cecal samples. Subsequently, an antimicrobial susceptibility test was performed for the isolates. The results revealed the overall prevalence of Salmonella and Campylobacter was 78.25% and 63.5%, respectively. Positive percentages of Salmonella and Campylobacter were high in the carcasses compared to the neck skin and ceca. The Campylobacter counts on the whole carcasses were significantly low (p < 0.001), at higher chlorine concentrations ranging from 20 to 30 ppm and 40 to 50 ppm. The pathogen prevalence in the whole carcasses was 84.7% Campylobacter coli, 39.1% Campylobacter jejuni, 71.1% Salmonella Typhimurium, and 28.8% Salmonella Infantis. The highest resistance was observed for tetracycline (63.8%) in Salmonella, while it was for gentamicin (87.8%) in Campylobacter. The prevalence percentage of multidrug-resistant Campylobacter was 51.2%, while it was 2.12% for Salmonella. The persistence of multidrug-resistant Salmonella and Campylobacter on the post-chill carcasses was highlighted in the present study as a significant public health threat that has to be addressed urgently. Full article

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