European Journal of Biological Research

Antibiotic resistance and virulence genes in Campylobacter species from pig and cattle samples in Ibadan, Nigeria

Olutayo Israel Falodun , Odunsanmi Ajibodun Waleola — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0100

Campylobacter species are the leading cause of gastroenteritis worldwide with incidence cases higher than those caused by Salmonella. This study was designed to determine the antibiotic resistance patterns and virulence genes detection in selected Multi-Drug Resistant (MDR) strains of Campylobacter species isolated from pigs and cattle dungs. Stool samples were collected from pigs and cattle at the teaching and research farm of the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Isolation and identification of Campylobacter species were made using modified charcoal cefoperazone deoxycholate agar and standard biochemical tests. Antibiotic susceptibility test was carried out using the disk diffusion technique. The hipO and cadF virulence genes were detected using a multiplex-polymerase chain reaction. The occurrence of Campylobacter species in pigs and cattle was 90.0% and 95.0%, respectively. In pigs, C. coli had the highest occurrence, while it was C. jejuni in cattle. The antibiotic resistance patterns showed that 1.3% and 1.2% of the isolates from pigs and cattle, respectively were resistant to all the antibiotics tested. Among the selected MDR strains, cadF genes were detected in 76.5% (pigs) and 75.0% (cattle). However, hipO genes were detected in 11.8% (pigs) and 50.0% (cattle) isolates. The cadF gene was detected in all the Campylobacter species, while hipO gene was detected only in C. jejuni. In conclusion, the pigs and cattle faecal wastes harbored virulent and multidrug-resistant Campylobacter species. Hence, the indiscriminate discharge of untreated animal faecal wastes into the environment and water bodies should be discouraged.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10909573

Coccidiosis of domestic food animals in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abdul-Razak Mohammed Raji , Papa Kofi Amissah-Reynolds — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0100

A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on coccidiosis in domestic food animals in Africa spanning the period from 2002 to 2022 was done with the objective of identifying the distribution of studies on the infection and aggregation of prevalence of the parasite in the study animals. A total of 43 articles met the eligibility criteria for inclusion in the review. These include 16 studies on cattle, 9 on sheep, 7 on goats, 2 on pigs and 18 on poultry. The results revealed pooled data from 8,717 cattle, out of which 3,211, representing 36.84%, were positive for coccidiosis. In sheep, a total of 1,916 samples were pooled, out of which 895 representing 46.71%, were positive for the disease. In goats, 2,148 samples were pooled, out of which 1,316, representing 61.26%, were positive for the disease. Two studies gave a total of 610 samples in pigs, out of which 78, representing 12.78%, were positive for coccidiosis. In poultry, 7,261 samples were pooled, out of which 2,894, representing 39.86%, were positive for coccidiosis. There were however, no significant differences in prevalence between the five species. The concentration method of ova and parasite examination was the commonest method of isolation of Eimeria identified in the current review. In conclusion, Eimeria infection is high in food animals in Africa. Therefore, to tackle the disease, there is a need for a concerted effort in the identification, diagnosis and general prevention and control of the disease.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10580171

Food safety management: preventive strategies and control of pathogenic microorganisms in food

Pedro Henrique Mainardi, Ederio Dino Bidoia — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0100

Food security is a paramount concern worldwide, as the consumption of food contaminated by pathogenic microorganisms can result in serious risks to human health. The presence of bacteria, fungi, and other potentially harmful microorganisms in food is a reality that demands rigorous preventive and control measures to ensure the quality and safety of food products. In this context, this review addresses food safety management as a preventive and control measure for pathogenic microorganisms in food, aiming to safeguard public health and ensure product quality. The article discusses the importance of strict hygienic practices throughout the food chain, from production to consumption, and analyzes predominant pathogenic microorganisms that can cause foodborne illnesses. The study highlights the relevance of conventional and advanced techniques for microbiological identification as effective tools for accurate and rapid detection of microorganisms in food. Key elements such as temperature, pH, water activity, and additives are emphasized as crucial in inhibiting microbial proliferation. The implementation of quality management systems, notably the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) system, and collaboration among various stakeholders are identified as essential to ensuring food safety. The importance of consumer education regarding safe food handling and storage practices is also emphasized. The conclusion emphasizes the central significance of food safety management as a foundation for population health and well-being, reinforcing that synergy and shared responsibility are indispensable pillars to ensure the supply of safe and healthy food for human consumption.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10724672