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Stavropoulou E, Huguenin A, Caruana G, Opota O, Perrottet N, Blanc DS, Grandbastien B, Senn L, Bochud PY, Lamoth F. Investigations of an increased incidence of non-Aspergillus invasive mould infections in an onco-haematology unit. Swiss Med Wkly 2024; 154:3730. [PMID: 38579310 DOI: 10.57187/s.3730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS OF THE STUDY Invasive mould infections are life-threatening complications in patients with haematologic cancer and chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. While invasive aspergillosis represents the main cause of invasive mould infections, non-Aspergillus mould infections, such as mucormycosis, are increasingly reported. Consequently, their local epidemiology should be closely monitored. The aim of this study was to investigate the causes of an increased incidence of non-Aspergillus mould infections in the onco-haematology unit of a Swiss tertiary care hospital. METHODS All cases of proven and probable invasive mould infections were retrospectively identified via a local registry for the period 2007-2021 and their incidence was calculated per 10,000 patient-days per year. The relative proportion of invasive aspergillosis and non-Aspergillus mould infections was assessed. Factors that may affect invasive mould infections' incidence, such as antifungal drug consumption, environmental contamination and changes in diagnostic approaches, were investigated. RESULTS A significant increase of the incidence of non-Aspergillus mould infections (mainly mucormycosis) was observed from 2017 onwards (Mann and Kendall test p = 0.0053), peaking in 2020 (8.62 episodes per 10,000 patient-days). The incidence of invasive aspergillosis remained stable across the period of observation. The proportion of non-Aspergillus mould infections increased significantly from 2017 (33% vs 16.8% for the periods 2017-2021 and 2007-2016, respectively, p = 0.02). Building projects on the hospital site were identified as possible contributors of this increase in non-Aspergillus mould infections. However, novel diagnostic procedures may have improved their detection. CONCLUSIONS We report a significant increase in non-Aspergillus mould infections, and mainly in mucormycosis infections, since 2017. There seems to be a multifactorial origin to this increase. Epidemiological trends of invasive mould infections should be carefully monitored in onco-haematology units in order to implement potential corrective measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisavet Stavropoulou
- nfectious diseases service, Department of medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anne Huguenin
- nfectious diseases service, Department of medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Giorgia Caruana
- nfectious diseases service, Department of medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Institute of microbiology, Department of laboratory medicine and pathology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Onya Opota
- Institute of microbiology, Department of laboratory medicine and pathology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nancy Perrottet
- Unit of clinical pharmacy, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Dominique S Blanc
- Infection prevention and control unit, Infectious diseases Service, Department of medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bruno Grandbastien
- Infection prevention and control unit, Infectious diseases Service, Department of medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Laurence Senn
- Infection prevention and control unit, Infectious diseases Service, Department of medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pierre-Yves Bochud
- Infectious diseases service, Department of medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Frederic Lamoth
- Infectious diseases service, Department of medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Institute of microbiology, Department of laboratory medicine and pathology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Stavropoulou E, Guery B, Tzimas G, Guex-Crosier Y, Hoogewoud F, Tozzi P, Kirsch M, Monney P, Papadimitriou-Olivgeris M. Eyes Wide Shut: A Cohort Study Questioning the Role of Fundoscopy in Infective Endocarditis Diagnosis. Clin Infect Dis 2024; 78:663-666. [PMID: 38330299 PMCID: PMC10954338 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciae067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
In this retrospective/prospective study, we assessed the role of fundoscopy in 711 episodes with suspected infective endocarditis (IE); 238 (33%) had IE. Ocular embolic events (retinal emboli or chorioretinitis/endophthalmitis) and Roth spots were found in 37 (5%) and 34 (5%) episodes, respectively, but had no impact on IE diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Infectious Diseases Service, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Benoit Guery
- Infectious Diseases Service, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Georgios Tzimas
- Department of Cardiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Yan Guex-Crosier
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jules-Gonin Eye Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Florence Hoogewoud
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jules-Gonin Eye Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Piergiorgio Tozzi
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Kirsch
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pierre Monney
- Department of Cardiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Matthaios Papadimitriou-Olivgeris
- Infectious Diseases Service, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Infectious Diseases Service, Cantonal Hospital of Sion and Institut Central des Hôpitaux, Sion, Switzerland
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Voidarou C, Rozos G, Stavropoulou E, Giorgi E, Stefanis C, Vakadaris G, Vaou N, Tsigalou C, Kourkoutas Y, Bezirtzoglou E. COVID-19 on the spectrum: a scoping review of hygienic standards. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1202216. [PMID: 38026326 PMCID: PMC10646607 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1202216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of COVID-19 in Wuhan, China, rapidly escalated into a worldwide public health crisis. Despite numerous clinical treatment endeavors, initial defenses against the virus primarily relied on hygiene practices like mask-wearing, meticulous hand hygiene (using soap or antiseptic solutions), and maintaining social distancing. Even with the subsequent advent of vaccines and the commencement of mass vaccination campaigns, these hygiene measures persistently remain in effect, aiming to curb virus transmission until the achievement of herd immunity. In this scoping review, we delve into the effectiveness of these measures and the diverse transmission pathways, focusing on the intricate interplay within the food network. Furthermore, we explore the virus's pathophysiology, considering its survival on droplets of varying sizes, each endowed with distinct aerodynamic attributes that influence disease dispersion dynamics. While respiratory transmission remains the predominant route, the potential for oral-fecal transmission should not be disregarded, given the protracted presence of viral RNA in patients' feces after the infection period. Addressing concerns about food as a potential viral vector, uncertainties shroud the virus's survivability and potential to contaminate consumers indirectly. Hence, a meticulous and comprehensive hygienic strategy remains paramount in our collective efforts to combat this pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Georgios Rozos
- Veterinary Directorate, South Aegean Region, Ermoupolis, Greece
| | - Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Elpida Giorgi
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Christos Stefanis
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Georgios Vakadaris
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Natalia Vaou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Christina Tsigalou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Yiannis Kourkoutas
- Laboratory of Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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Stavropoulou E, Atkinson A, Eisenring MC, Fux CA, Marschall J, Senn L, Troillet N. Association of antimicrobial perioperative prophylaxis with cefuroxime plus metronidazole or amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and surgical site infections in colorectal surgery. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control 2023; 12:105. [PMID: 37726838 PMCID: PMC10510121 DOI: 10.1186/s13756-023-01307-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare intravenous (IV) amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (A/CA) to IV cefuroxime plus metronidazole (C + M) for preventing surgical site infections (SSI) in colorectal surgery. BACKGROUND Given their spectra that include most Enterobacterales and anaerobes, C + M is commonly recommended as prophylaxis of SSI in colorectal surgery. A/CA offers good coverage of Enterobacterales and anaerobes as well, but, in contrast to C + M, it also includes Enterococcus faecalis which is also isolated from patients with SSI and could trigger anastomotic leakage. METHODS Data from a Swiss SSI surveillance program were used to compare SSI rates after class II (clean contaminated) colorectal surgery between patients who received C + M and those who received A/CA. We employed multivariable logistic regression to adjust for potential confounders, along with propensity score matching to adjust for group imbalance. RESULTS From 2009 to 2018, 27,922 patients from 127 hospitals were included. SSI was diagnosed in 3132 (11.2%): 278/1835 (15.1%) in those who received A/CA and 2854/26,087 (10.9%) in those who received C + M (p < 0.001). The crude OR for SSI in the A/CA group as compared to C + M was 1.45 [CI 95% 1.21-1.75]. The adjusted OR was 1.49 [1.24-1.78]. This finding persisted in a 1:1 propensity score matched cohort of 1835 patients pairs with an OR of 1.60 [1.28-2.00]. Other factors independently associated with SSI were an ASA score > 2, a longer duration of operation, and a reoperation for a non-infectious complication. Protective factors were female sex, older age, antibiotic prophylaxis received 60 to 30 min before surgery, elective operation, and endoscopic approach. CONCLUSIONS Despite its activity against enterococci, A/CA was less effective than C + M for preventing SSI, suggesting that it should not be a first choice antibiotic prophylaxis for colorectal surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Service of Infectious Diseases, Central Institute, Valais Hospital, Sion, Switzerland
- Service of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Andrew Atkinson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Bern University Hospital, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Marie-Christine Eisenring
- Service of Infectious Diseases, Central Institute, Valais Hospital, Sion, Switzerland
- Swissnoso, National Center for Infection Prevention, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christoph A Fux
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Infection Prevention, Kantonsspital Aarau, Aarau, Switzerland
| | - Jonas Marschall
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Bern University Hospital, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Laurence Senn
- Swissnoso, National Center for Infection Prevention, Bern, Switzerland.
- Infection Prevention and Control Unit, Service of Infectious Diseases, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Nicolas Troillet
- Service of Infectious Diseases, Central Institute, Valais Hospital, Sion, Switzerland
- Swissnoso, National Center for Infection Prevention, Bern, Switzerland
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Tsigalou C, Paraschaki A, Bragazzi NL, Aftzoglou K, Stavropoulou E, Tsakris Z, Vradelis S, Bezirtzoglou E. Alterations of gut microbiome following gastrointestinal surgical procedures and their potential complications. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1191126. [PMID: 37333847 PMCID: PMC10272562 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1191126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Intestinal microorganisms play a crucial role in shaping the host immunity and maintaining homeostasis. Nevertheless, alterations in gut bacterial composition may occur and these alterations have been linked with the pathogenesis of several diseases. In surgical practice, studies revealed that the microbiome of patients undergoing surgery changes and several post-operative complications seem to be associated with the gut microbiota composition. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of gut microbiota (GM) in surgical disease. We refer to several studies which describe alterations of GM in patients undergoing different types of surgery, we focus on the impacts of peri-operative interventions on GM and the role of GM in development of post-operative complications, such as anastomotic leak. The review aims to enhance comprehension regarding the correlation between GM and surgical procedures based in the current knowledge. However, preoperative and postoperative synthesis of GM needs to be further examined in future studies, so that GM-targeted measures could be assessed and the different surgery complications could be reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Tsigalou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Dragana Campus, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Afroditi Paraschaki
- Department of Biopathology/Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University General Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Nicola Luigi Bragazzi
- Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (LIAM), Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - K. Aftzoglou
- Medical School, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Rue du Bugnon, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Z. Tsakris
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - S. Vradelis
- Department of Gastrenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Dragana Campus, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Dragana, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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6
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Stavropoulou E, Guery B, Ianculescu N, Tozzi P, Kirsch M, Monney P, Papadimitriou-Olivgeris M. The role of early defervescence in ruling out infective endocarditis: a cohort study. Clin Microbiol Infect 2023:S1198-743X(23)00243-4. [PMID: 37230250 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2023.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the role of defervescence within 4 days from antibiotic treatment initiation in ruling out infective endocarditis (IE) among patients suspected of such diagnosis. METHODS This study was conducted at the Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland (01.2014 to 06.2022). All patients with suspected IE being febrile upon presentation were included. IE was classified according to the modified Duke criteria proposed by the 2015 European Society of Cardiology guidelines, before or after applying the criterion "resolution of symptoms suggesting IE within 4 days of introduction of antibiotic therapy" based solely on early defervescence. RESULTS Among 1022 episodes with suspected IE, 332 (37%) had IE according to Endocarditis-Team evaluation; 248 were classified by clinical Duke criteria as definite and 84 as possible IE. The rate of defervescence within 4 days from antibiotic treatment initiation was similar (P 0.547) among episodes without (606/690; 88%) and those with IE (287/332; 86%); among episodes classified as definite and possible IE by clinical Duke criteria, 211/248 (85%) and 76/84 (90%), respectively, defervesced within 4 days from antibiotic treatment initiation. By using early defervescence as a rejection criterion, the 76 episodes with final IE diagnosis classified as possible by clinical criteria could be reclassified as rejected. CONCLUSIONS The majority of IE episodes defervesced within 4 days from antibiotic treatment initiation, thus early defervescence should not be used to rule out the diagnosis of IE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Infectious Diseases Service, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Benoit Guery
- Infectious Diseases Service, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicoleta Ianculescu
- Department of Cardiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Piergiorgio Tozzi
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Kirsch
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pierre Monney
- Department of Cardiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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7
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Mitropoulou G, Stavropoulou E, Vaou N, Tsakris Z, Voidarou C, Tsiotsias A, Tsigalou C, Taban BM, Kourkoutas Y, Bezirtzoglou E. Insights into Antimicrobial and Anti-Inflammatory Applications of Plant Bioactive Compounds. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1156. [PMID: 37317131 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11051156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Plants have long been thought to contribute to health promotion due to their fiber and phenolic content, as well as their inherent biological potential. The bioactive derivatives of medicinal plants are a valuable resource in the fight against serious diseases all around the world. The present review focuses on the current state of knowledge on the usage and medicinal applications of plant bioactives. Issues concerning the effect of aromatic plant derivatives on human gut microbiota and their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory potentials are discussed and worth further exploring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregoria Mitropoulou
- Laboratory of Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), 1101 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Natalia Vaou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Zacharias Tsakris
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Chrysa Voidarou
- Department of Agriculture, University of Ioannina, 47132 Arta, Greece
| | - Arsenis Tsiotsias
- Department of Obstetrics, University of Western Macedonia, 50200 Ptolemaida, Greece
| | - Christina Tsigalou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Birce Mercanoglou Taban
- Dairy Technology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Veterinary and Agriculture Campus, Ankara University, Diskapi, Ankara 06110, Turkey
| | - Yiannis Kourkoutas
- Laboratory of Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
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8
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Drakopanagiotakis F, Stavropoulou E, Tsigalou C, Nena E, Steiropoulos P. The Role of the Microbiome in Connective-Tissue-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease and Pulmonary Vasculitis. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10123195. [PMID: 36551951 PMCID: PMC9775480 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10123195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The microbiome can trigger and maintain immune-mediated diseases and is associated with the severity and prognosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, which is the prototype of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs). The latter can be a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with connective-tissue diseases (CTD). In the present review, we discuss the current evidence regarding microbiome in CTD-ILD and pulmonary vasculitis. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) the BAL microbiota is significantly less diverse and abundant, compared to healthy controls. These changes are associated with disease severity. In systemic sclerosis (SSc), gastrointestinal (GI)-dysbiosis is associated with ILD. Butyrate acid administration as a means of restoration of GI-microbiota has reduced the degree of lung fibrosis in animal models. Although related studies are scarce for SLE and Sjögren's syndrome, studies of the gut, oral and ocular microbiome provide insights into the pathogenesis of these diseases. In ANCA-associated vasculitis, disease severity and relapses have been associated with disturbed nasal mucosa microbiota, with immunosuppressive treatment restoring the microbiome changes. The results of these studies suggest however no causal relation. More studies of the lung microbiome in CTD-ILDs are urgently needed, to provide a better understanding of the pathogenesis of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fotios Drakopanagiotakis
- Department of Pulmonology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, 69100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
- Correspondence: (F.D.); (E.S.)
| | - Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Service of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne (Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois—CHUV), 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Correspondence: (F.D.); (E.S.)
| | - Christina Tsigalou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, 69100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Evangelia Nena
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, 69100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Paschalis Steiropoulos
- Department of Pulmonology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, 69100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
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9
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Vaou N, Stavropoulou E, Voidarou C(C, Tsakris Z, Rozos G, Tsigalou C, Bezirtzoglou E. Interactions between Medical Plant-Derived Bioactive Compounds: Focus on Antimicrobial Combination Effects. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11081014. [PMID: 36009883 PMCID: PMC9404952 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11081014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
It is accepted that the medicinal use of complex mixtures of plant-derived bioactive compounds is more effective than purified bioactive compounds due to beneficial combination interactions. However, synergy and antagonism are very difficult to study in a meticulous fashion since most established methods were designed to reduce the complexity of mixtures and identify single bioactive compounds. This study represents a critical review of the current scientific literature on the combined effects of plant-derived extracts/bioactive compounds. A particular emphasis is provided on the identification of antimicrobial synergistic or antagonistic combinations using recent metabolomics methods and elucidation of approaches identifying potential mechanisms that underlie their interactions. Proven examples of synergistic/antagonistic antimicrobial activity of bioactive compounds are also discussed. The focus is also put on the current challenges, difficulties, and problems that need to be overcome and future perspectives surrounding combination effects. The utilization of bioactive compounds from medicinal plant extracts as appropriate antimicrobials is important and needs to be facilitated by means of new metabolomics technologies to discover the most effective combinations among them. Understanding the nature of the interactions between medicinal plant-derived bioactive compounds will result in the development of new combination antimicrobial therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Vaou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Dragana, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
- Correspondence: (N.V.); or (E.S.)
| | - Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), 1101 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Correspondence: (N.V.); or (E.S.)
| | - Chrysoula (Chrysa) Voidarou
- Department of Agriculture, School of Agriculture, University of Ioannina, 47100 Arta, Greece; (C.V.); (G.R.)
| | - Zacharias Tsakris
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Georgios Rozos
- Department of Agriculture, School of Agriculture, University of Ioannina, 47100 Arta, Greece; (C.V.); (G.R.)
| | - Christina Tsigalou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Dragana, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
| | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Dragana, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
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10
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Stavropoulou E, Voidarou C(C, Rozos G, Vaou N, Bardanis M, Konstantinidis T, Vrioni G, Tsakris A. Antimicrobial Evaluation of Various Honey Types against Carbapenemase-Producing Gram-Negative Clinical Isolates. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11030422. [PMID: 35326885 PMCID: PMC8944737 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11030422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of antibiotic resistance is a major public health issue, as infections are increasingly unresponsive to antibiotics. Emerging antimicrobial resistance has raised researchers’ interest in the development of alternative strategies using natural compounds with antibacterial activity, like honey, which has emerged as an agent to treat several infections and wound injuries. Nevertheless, the antibacterial effect of honey was mostly evaluated against Gram-positive bacteria. Hence, the objective of our study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity, as well as the physicochemical parameters, of genuine Greek honeys against multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogenic bacteria. In this vein, we aimed to study the in vitro antibacterial potential of rare Greek honeys against Verona integron-encoded metallo-β-lactamase (VIM)- or Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase-producing multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens. Physicochemical parameters such as pH, hydrogen peroxide, free acidity, lactonic acid, total phenols total flavonoids, free radical scavenging activities, tyrosinase enzyme inhibitory activity and kojic acid were examined. Moreover, the antimicrobial activity of 10 different honey types was evaluated in five consecutive dilutions (75%, 50%, 25%, 12.5% and 6.25%) against the clinical isolates by the well diffusion method, as well as by the determination of the minimum inhibition concentration after the addition of catalase and protease. Almost all the physicochemical parameters varied significantly among the different honeys. Fir and manuka honey showed the highest values in pH and H2O2, while the free acidity and lactonic acid levels were higher in chestnut honey. Total phenols, total flavonoids and free radical scavenging activities were found higher in cotton, arbutus and manuka honey, and finally, manuka and oregano honeys showed higher tyrosinase inhibition activity and kojic acid levels. The antimicrobial susceptibility depended on the type of honey, on its dilution, on the treatment methodology and on the microorganism. Arbutus honey was the most potent against VIM-producing Enterobacter cloacae subsp. dissolvens in 75% concentration, while fir honey was more lethal for the same microorganism in the 25% concentration. Many honeys outperformed manuka honey in their antibacterial potency. It is of interest that, for any given concentration in the well diffusion method and for any given type of honey, significant differences were not detected among the four multidrug-resistant pathogens, which explains that the damaging effect to the bacterial cells was the same regardless of the bacterial species or strain. Although the antimicrobial potency of different honey varieties dependents on their geographical origin and on their compositional differences, the exact underlying mechanism remains yet unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (G.V.); (A.T.)
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), 1101 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Correspondence: or
| | - Chrysoula (Chrysa) Voidarou
- Department of Agriculture, School of Agriculture, University of Ioannina, 47100 Arta, Greece; (C.V.); (G.R.)
| | - Georgios Rozos
- Department of Agriculture, School of Agriculture, University of Ioannina, 47100 Arta, Greece; (C.V.); (G.R.)
| | - Natalia Vaou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Dragana, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece; (N.V.); (M.B.); (T.K.)
| | - Michael Bardanis
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Dragana, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece; (N.V.); (M.B.); (T.K.)
- Gourmeli., 73100 Chania, Crete, Greece
| | - Theodoros Konstantinidis
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Dragana, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece; (N.V.); (M.B.); (T.K.)
| | - Georgia Vrioni
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (G.V.); (A.T.)
| | - Athanasios Tsakris
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (G.V.); (A.T.)
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11
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Spinthiropoulos K, Tsiatsiou E, Garefalakis A, Chaitidis G, Stavropoulou E. GREEK ECONOMIC CRISIS MANAGEMENT PROGRAM AND ITS IMPACT ON PUBLIC EMPLOYEES’ EARNINGS: A CASE SERIES AND LITERATURE REVIEW. PJMS 2021. [DOI: 10.17512/pjms.2021.24.2.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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12
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Vaou N, Stavropoulou E, Voidarou C, Tsigalou C, Bezirtzoglou E. Towards Advances in Medicinal Plant Antimicrobial Activity: A Review Study on Challenges and Future Perspectives. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9102041. [PMID: 34683362 PMCID: PMC8541629 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9102041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The increasing incidence of drug- resistant pathogens raises an urgent need to identify and isolate new bioactive compounds from medicinal plants using standardized modern analytical procedures. Medicinal plant-derived compounds could provide novel straightforward approaches against pathogenic bacteria. This review explores the antimicrobial activity of plant-derived components, their possible mechanisms of action, as well as their chemical potential. The focus is put on the current challenges and future perspectives surrounding medicinal plants antimicrobial activity. There are some inherent challenges regarding medicinal plant extracts and their antimicrobial efficacy. Appropriate and optimized extraction methodology plant species dependent leads to upgraded and selective extracted compounds. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests for the determination of the antimicrobial activity of plant extracts may show variations in obtained results. Moreover, there are several difficulties and problems that need to be overcome for the development of new antimicrobials from plant extracts, while efforts have been made to enhance the antimicrobial activity of chemical compounds. Research on the mechanisms of action, interplay with other substances, and the pharmacokinetic and/or pharmacodynamic profile of the medicinal plant extracts should be given high priority to characterize them as potential antimicrobial agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Vaou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Dragana, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
- Correspondence: (N.V.); (E.S.)
| | - Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Rue du Bugnon, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Correspondence: (N.V.); (E.S.)
| | - Chrysa Voidarou
- Department of Agriculture, University of Ioannina, 47132 Arta, Greece;
| | - Christina Tsigalou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Dragana, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
| | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Dragana, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
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13
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Voidarou C(C, Rozos G, Alexopoulos A, Plessas S, Mantzourani I, Stavropoulou E, Tzora A, Bezirtzoglou E. In Vitro Screening Potential Antibacterial Properties of the Greek Oregano Honey against Clinical Isolates of Helicobacter pylori. Foods 2021; 10:foods10071568. [PMID: 34359441 PMCID: PMC8307090 DOI: 10.3390/foods10071568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Oregano honey is an exceedingly rare and distinct product, not commercially available, produced by bees bred in oregano fields of alpine altitudes at the mountainous area of Epirus, Greece. In ethnic popular medicine, this product is used as a therapeutic in various gastric diseases. To test this hypothesis, 14 strains of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), 6 isolated from gastric ulcers and 8 from cases of clinical gastritis, were employed in the present study. The above bacterial strains were exposed to various concentrations (75% v/v, 50% v/v, 25% v/v, 12.5% v/v, and 6% v/v) of 50 oregano honey samples by using the agar well method and the inhibition zones observed around each well were recorded. Although the inhibitory zones of the H. pylori isolated from the gastric ulcers were wide enough (0–34 mm), those strains, in general, appeared more resistant than the other eight (0–58 mm). The same result was observed when the same strains were tested against six antibiotics used in clinical practice. Extracts of oregano honey were prepared by extraction with four different organic solvents. N-hexane and chloroform extracts had the most potent antibacterial action. Finally, pure oregano honey and diethyl ether extracts of honey showed significant inhibitory activity against urease secreted by the pathogen. These results strongly indicate the susceptibility of H. pylori strains to the oregano honey by more than one mode of action. Consequently, this variety of honey seems to have potential therapeutic properties against gastric ulcers and gastritis, thus explaining the preference of the locals towards this traditional remedy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrysoula (Chrysa) Voidarou
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Ioannina, 47100 Arta, Greece; (G.R.); (A.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-2681363502
| | - Georgios Rozos
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Ioannina, 47100 Arta, Greece; (G.R.); (A.T.)
| | - Athanasios Alexopoulos
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology & Hygiene, Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, 68200 Orestiada, Greece; (A.A.); (S.P.); (I.M.)
| | - Stavros Plessas
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology & Hygiene, Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, 68200 Orestiada, Greece; (A.A.); (S.P.); (I.M.)
| | - Ioanna Mantzourani
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology & Hygiene, Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, 68200 Orestiada, Greece; (A.A.); (S.P.); (I.M.)
| | - Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Service de Medecine Interne et Service des Maladies Infectieuses, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Valois (CHUV), Rue de Bugnon, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland;
| | - Athina Tzora
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Ioannina, 47100 Arta, Greece; (G.R.); (A.T.)
| | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, 67100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
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14
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Stavropoulou E, Kantartzi K, Tsigalou C, Aftzoglou K, Voidarou C, Konstantinidis T, Chifiriuc MC, Thodis E, Bezirtzoglou E. Microbiome, Immunosenescence, and Chronic Kidney Disease. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:661203. [PMID: 33816535 PMCID: PMC8017168 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.661203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiome is known as an important predictive tool for perceiving characteristic shifts in disease states. Multiple renal diseases and pathologies seem to be associated with gut dysbiosis which directly affects host homeostasis. The gastrointestinal-kidney dialogue confers interesting information about the pathogenesis of multiple kidney diseases. Moreover, aging is followed by specific shifts in the human microbiome, and gradual elimination of physiological functions predisposes the microbiome to inflammaging, sarcopenia, and disease. Aging is characterized by a microbiota with an abundance of disease-associated pathobionts. Multiple factors such as the immune system, environment, medication, diet, and genetic endowment are involved in determining the age of the microbiome in health and disease. Our present review promotes recently acquired knowledge and is expected to inspire researchers to advance studies and investigations on the involved pathways of the gut microbiota and kidney axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisavet Stavropoulou
- CHUV (Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois), Rue du Bugnon, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Central Institute, Valais Hospital, Sion, Switzerland
| | - Konstantia Kantartzi
- Nephrology Clinic, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupoli, Greece
| | - Christina Tsigalou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupoli, Greece
| | | | | | | | - Mariana Carmen Chifiriuc
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, The Research Institute of the University of Bucharest (ICUB), University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Elias Thodis
- Nephrology Clinic, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupoli, Greece
| | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupoli, Greece
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15
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Stavropoulou E, Kantartzi K, Tsigalou C, Konstantinidis T, Voidarou C, Konstantinidis T, Bezirtzoglou E. Unraveling the Interconnection Patterns Across Lung Microbiome, Respiratory Diseases, and COVID-19. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 10:619075. [PMID: 33585285 PMCID: PMC7876344 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.619075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Albeit the lungs were thought to be sterile, recent scientific data reported a microbial microbiota in the lungs of healthy individuals. Apparently, new developments in technological approachesincluding genome sequencing methodologies contributed in the identification of the microbiota and shed light on the role of the gut and lung microbiomes in the development of respiratory diseases. Moreover, knowledge of the human microbiome in health may act as a tool for evaluating characteristic shifts in the case of disease. This review paper discusses the development of respiratory disease linked to the intestinal dysbiosis which influences the lung immunity and microbiome. The gastrointestinal-lung dialogue provides interesting aspects in the pathogenesis of the respiratory diseases. Lastly, we were further interested on the role of this interconnection in the progression and physiopathology of newly emergedCOVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisavet Stavropoulou
- CHUV (Centre HospitalierUniversitaire Vaudois), Lausanne, Switzerland,Department of Infectious Diseases, Central Institute, Valais Hospital, Sion, Switzerland,*Correspondence: Elisavet Stavropoulou,
| | - Konstantia Kantartzi
- Nephrology Clinic, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Christina Tsigalou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Theocharis Konstantinidis
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | | | - Theodoros Konstantinidis
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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16
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Stavropoulou E, Kantartzi K, Tsigalou C, Konstantinidis T, Romanidou G, Voidarou C, Bezirtzoglou E. Focus on the Gut-Kidney Axis in Health and Disease. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 7:620102. [PMID: 33553216 PMCID: PMC7859267 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.620102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent new developments in technology with culture-independent techniques including genome sequencing methodologies shed light on the identification of microbiota bacterial species and their role in health and disease. Microbiome is actually reported as an important predictive tool for evaluating characteristic shifts in case of disease. Our present review states the development of different renal diseases and pathologies linked to the intestinal dysbiosis, which impacts on host homeostasis. The gastrointestinal–kidney dialogue provides intriguing features in the pathogenesis of several renal diseases. Without any doubt, investigation of this interconnection consists one of the most cutting-edge areas of research with potential implications on our health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Central Institute, Valais Hospital, Sion, Switzerland
| | - Konstantia Kantartzi
- Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Christina Tsigalou
- Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | | | | | | | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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17
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Department of Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland.,Service of Infectious Diseases, Central Institute of Valais Hospitals, Sion, Switzerland.,Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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18
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Stavropoulou E, Emonet S. [Probiotics: benefits and harms]. Rev Med Suisse 2020; 16:1916-1919. [PMID: 33058577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Probiotics are a big food and pharmaceutical industry today. The most widely used probiotics are Lactobacillus spp, Bifidobacterium spp, strains of Enterococcus spp, Streptococcus spp and yeasts such as Saccharomyces pp. Among the best-known indications are Clostridioides difficile colitis and diarrhea due to antibiotics, but probiotics are also proposed as adjuvants for atopic syndromes, autoimmune diseases, prevention and treatment of obesity, diabetes and cystic fibrosis, where dysbiosis play an important role. However, their use remains debated due to a lack of powerful data proving their effectiveness and their often-overlooked side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Service des maladies infectieuses, Institut central des hôpitaux, Hôpital du Valais, 1951 Sion
| | - Stéphane Emonet
- Service des maladies infectieuses, Institut central des hôpitaux, Hôpital du Valais, 1951 Sion
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19
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Abstract
During the last years probiotics gained the attention of clinicians for their use in the prevention and treatment of multiple diseases. Probiotics main mechanisms of action include enhanced mucosal barrier function, direct antagonism with pathogens, inhibition of bacterial adherence and invasion capacity in the intestinal epithelium, boosting of the immune system and regulation of the central nervous system. It is accepted that there is a mutual communication between the gut microbiota and the liver, the so-called “microbiota-gut-liver axis” as well as a reciprocal communication between the intestinal microbiota and the central nervous system through the “microbiota-gut-brain axis.” Moreover, recently the “gut-lung axis” in bacterial and viral infections is considerably discussed for bacterial and viral infections, as the intestinal microbiota amplifies the alveolar macrophage activity having a protective role in the host defense against pneumonia. The importance of the normal human intestinal microbiota is recognized in the preservation of health. Disease states such as, infections, autoimmune conditions, allergy and other may occur when the intestinal balance is disturbed. Probiotics seem to be a promising approach to prevent and even reduce the symptoms of such clinical states as an adjuvant therapy by preserving the balance of the normal intestinal microbiota and improving the immune system. The present review states globally all different disorders in which probiotics can be given. To date, Stronger data in favor of their clinical use are provided in the prevention of gastrointestinal disorders, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, allergy and respiratory infections. We hereby discuss the role of probiotics in the reduction of the respiratory infection symptoms and we focus on the possibility to use them as an adjuvant to the therapeutic approach of the pandemic COVID-19. Nevertheless, it is accepted by the scientific community that more clinical studies should be undertaken in large samples of diseased populations so that the assessment of their therapeutic potential provide us with strong evidence for their efficacy and safety in clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisavet Stavropoulou
- CHUV (Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois), Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Central Institute, Valais Hospital, Sion, Switzerland
| | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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20
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Stavropoulou E, Coste AT, Beigelman-Aubry C, Letovanec I, Spertini O, Lovis A, Krueger T, Burger R, Bochud PY, Lamoth F. Conidiobolus pachyzygosporus invasive pulmonary infection in a patient with acute myeloid leukemia: case report and review of the literature. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:527. [PMID: 32698804 PMCID: PMC7374966 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05218-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Conidiobolus spp. (mainly C. coronatus) are the causal agents of rhino-facial conidiobolomycosis, a limited soft tissue infection, which is essentially observed in immunocompetent individuals from tropical areas. Rare cases of invasive conidiobolomycosis due to C. coronatus or other species (C.incongruus, C.lamprauges) have been reported in immunocompromised patients. We report here the first case of invasive pulmonary fungal infection due to Conidiobolus pachyzygosporus in a Swiss patient with onco-haematologic malignancy. Case presentation A 71 year-old female was admitted in a Swiss hospital for induction chemotherapy of acute myeloid leukemia. A chest CT performed during the neutropenic phase identified three well-circumscribed lung lesions consistent with invasive fungal infection, along with a positive 1,3-beta-d-glucan assay in serum. A transbronchial biopsy of the lung lesions revealed large occasionally septate hyphae. A Conidiobolus spp. was detected by direct 18S rDNA in the tissue biopsy and subsequently identified at species level as C. pachyzygosporus by 28S rDNA sequencing. The infection was cured after isavuconazole therapy, recovery of the immune system and surgical resection of lung lesions. Conclusions This is the first description of C. pachyzygosporus as human pathogen and second case report of invasive conidiobolomycosis from a European country.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Stavropoulou
- Infectious Diseases Service, Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - A T Coste
- Institute of Microbiology, Department of Laboratories, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - C Beigelman-Aubry
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - I Letovanec
- Institute of Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - O Spertini
- Service and Central Laboratory of Hematology, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - A Lovis
- Service of pneumology, Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - T Krueger
- Thoracic Surgery Service, Department of Surgery and Anesthesiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - R Burger
- Infectious Diseases Service, Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - P Y Bochud
- Infectious Diseases Service, Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - F Lamoth
- Infectious Diseases Service, Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland. .,Institute of Microbiology, Department of Laboratories, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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21
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Manisalidis I, Stavropoulou E, Stavropoulos A, Bezirtzoglou E. Environmental and Health Impacts of Air Pollution: A Review. Front Public Health 2020; 8:14. [PMID: 32154200 PMCID: PMC7044178 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 862] [Impact Index Per Article: 215.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
One of our era's greatest scourges is air pollution, on account not only of its impact on climate change but also its impact on public and individual health due to increasing morbidity and mortality. There are many pollutants that are major factors in disease in humans. Among them, Particulate Matter (PM), particles of variable but very small diameter, penetrate the respiratory system via inhalation, causing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, reproductive and central nervous system dysfunctions, and cancer. Despite the fact that ozone in the stratosphere plays a protective role against ultraviolet irradiation, it is harmful when in high concentration at ground level, also affecting the respiratory and cardiovascular system. Furthermore, nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), dioxins, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are all considered air pollutants that are harmful to humans. Carbon monoxide can even provoke direct poisoning when breathed in at high levels. Heavy metals such as lead, when absorbed into the human body, can lead to direct poisoning or chronic intoxication, depending on exposure. Diseases occurring from the aforementioned substances include principally respiratory problems such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, bronchiolitis, and also lung cancer, cardiovascular events, central nervous system dysfunctions, and cutaneous diseases. Last but not least, climate change resulting from environmental pollution affects the geographical distribution of many infectious diseases, as do natural disasters. The only way to tackle this problem is through public awareness coupled with a multidisciplinary approach by scientific experts; national and international organizations must address the emergence of this threat and propose sustainable solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Manisalidis
- Delphis S.A., Kifisia, Greece.,Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Faculty of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Service de Médicine Interne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Faculty of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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22
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Tsigalou C, Konstantinidis T, Stavropoulou E, Bezirtzoglou EE, Tsakris A. Potential Elimination of Human Gut Resistome by Exploiting the Benefits of Functional Foods. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:50. [PMID: 32117102 PMCID: PMC7026006 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.00050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in technology over the last decades have strived to elucidate the diverse and abundant ecosystem of the human microbiome. The intestinal microbiota represents a densely inhabited environment that offers a plethora of beneficial effects to the host's wellbeing. On the other hand, it can serve as a potential reservoir of Multi-Drug Resistant (MDR) bacteria and their antibiotic-resistant genes (ARgenes), which comprise the "gut resistome." ARgenes, like antibiotics, have been omnipresent in the environment for billions of years. In the context of the gut microbiome, these genes may conflate into exogenous MDR or emerge in commensals due to mutations or gene transfers. It is currently generally accepted that Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) poses a serious threat to public health worldwide. It is of paramount importance that researchers focus on, amongst other parameters, elaborating strategies to manage the gut resistome, particularly focusing on the diminution of AMR. Potential interventions in the gut microbiome field by Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT) or functional foods are newly emerged candidates for the uprooting of MDR strains and restoring dysbiosis and resilience. Probiotic nutrition is thought to diminish gut colonization from pathobionts. Yet only a few studies have explored the effects of antibiotics use on the reservoir of AR genes and the demanding time for return to normal by gut microbiota-targeted strategies. Regular administration of probiotic bacteria has recently been linked to restoration of the gut ecosystem and decrease of the gut resistome and AR genes carriers. This review summarizes the latest information about the intestinal resistome and the intriguing methods of fighting against AMR through probiotic-based methods and gut microbial shifts that have been proposed. This study contains some key messages: (1) AMR currently poses a lethal threat to global health, and it is pivotal for the scientific community to do its utmost in fighting against it; (2) human gut microbiome research, within the last decade especially, seems to be preoccupied with the interface of numerous diseases and identifying a potential target for a variety of interventions; (3) the gut resistome, comprised of AR genesis, presents very early on in life and is prone to shifts due to the use of antibiotics or dietary supplements; and (4) future strategies involving functional foods seem promising for the battle against AMR through intestinal resistome diminution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Tsigalou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Medical School, University Hospital, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Theocharis Konstantinidis
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Medical School, University Hospital, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | | | - Eugenia E. Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Athanasios Tsakris
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Karampitsakos T, Papaioannou O, Kaponi M, Kozanidou A, Hillas G, Stavropoulou E, Bouros D, Dimakou K. Low penetrance of antibiotics in the epithelial lining fluid. The role of inhaled antibiotics in patients with bronchiectasis. Pulm Pharmacol Ther 2019; 60:101885. [PMID: 31891761 DOI: 10.1016/j.pupt.2019.101885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Plasma drug concentrations, spectrum of antibacterial activity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) had been widely considered as markers of the efficacy of antibiotics. Nonetheless, in several cases, antibiotics characterized by all these features were ineffective for the treatment of respiratory tract infections. A typical paradigm represented the case of patients with bronchiectasis who do not always benefit from antibiotics and thus experiencing increased sputum production, worse quality of life, more rapid forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) decline, more frequent exacerbations and increased mortality rates, especially those with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) chronic infection. Subsequently, penetrance of antibiotics in the epithelial lining fluid has gradually emerged as another key factor for the outcome of antibiotic treatment. Given that a plethora of antibiotics presented with poor or intermediate penetrance in the epithelial lining fluid, inhaled antibiotics targeting directly the site of infection emerged as a new option for patients with respiratory disorders including patients with bronchiectasis. This review article intends to summarize the current state of knowledge for the penetrance of antibiotics in the epithelial lining fluid and present results from clinical trials of inhaled antibiotics in patients with bronchiectasis of etiology other than cystic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ourania Papaioannou
- 5th Department of Pneumonology, Hospital for Thoracic Diseases, "Sotiria", Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Kaponi
- 5th Department of Pneumonology, Hospital for Thoracic Diseases, "Sotiria", Athens, Greece
| | - Andreana Kozanidou
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokrateion Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Hillas
- 5th Department of Pneumonology, Hospital for Thoracic Diseases, "Sotiria", Athens, Greece
| | - Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Service de Médecine Interne, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Demosthenes Bouros
- First Academic Department of Pneumonology, Hospital for Thoracic Diseases, "Sotiria", Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Katerina Dimakou
- 5th Department of Pneumonology, Hospital for Thoracic Diseases, "Sotiria", Athens, Greece.
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Alexopoulos A, Kimbaris AC, Plessas S, Mantzourani I, Voidarou C, Pagonopoulou O, Tsigalou C, Fournomiti M, Bontsidis C, Stavropoulou E, Papaemmanouil V, Bezirtzoglou E. Combined Action of Piperitenone Epoxide and Antibiotics Against Clinical Isolates of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:2607. [PMID: 31803154 PMCID: PMC6877480 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.02607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the antimicrobial efficiency of piperitenone epoxide (PEO) - a principal component of various aromatic plants' essential oil - in combination with various antibiotics against 28 strains of Staphylococcus aureus and 10 strains of Escherichia coli isolated from clinical samples. Mentha spicata's essential oil, initially collected by hydrodistillation, was then subjected to flush column chromatography affording PEO of high purity. Minimum inhibitory concentrations of PEO alone and in combination with various concentrations of antibiotics were assessed using the microdilution method. The combined action was estimated calculating the fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) index from checkerboard assays. Our results showed that the average minimum inhibitory concentration (mg/l) of PEO alone against E. coli was 512 ± 364.7 μg/ml, which was significantly higher than 172.8 ± 180.7 μg/ml observed for S. aureus. From checkerboard assays, FIC values below the 0.5 index, indicating synergy, were observed for 59% of the drugs tested. Twelve percent of FIC index values were between 0.5 and 1, indicating additive effects, while 21% were indifferent. According to our results, PEO could be a promising antimicrobial compound when combined with specific antibiotics and deserves further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athanasios Alexopoulos
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Athanasios C. Kimbaris
- Laboratory of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Stavros Plessas
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Ioanna Mantzourani
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Chrysa Voidarou
- Department of Agricultural Technology, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Food Technology and Nutrition, Technological Educational Institute of Epirus, Arta, Greece
| | - Olga Pagonopoulou
- Laboratory of Physiology, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Christina Tsigalou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Maria Fournomiti
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Christos Bontsidis
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Service de Médecine Interne, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
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Mantzourani I, Bontsidis CA, Plessas S, Alexopoulos A, Theodoridou E, Tsigalou C, Voidarou C, Douganiotis G, Kazakos SL, Stavropoulou E, Bezirtzoglou E. Comparative Susceptibility Study Against Pathogens Using Fermented Cranberry Juice and Antibiotics. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:1294. [PMID: 31231355 PMCID: PMC6568244 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.01294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In the present study, unfermented and fermented cranberry juice in combination with the Antibiotics vancomycin and tigecycline were tested for their antimicrobial activity. Cranberry juice was fermented with a recently isolated potentially probiotic Lactobacillus paracasei K5. The tested strains selected for this purpose were Enterococcus faecalis, E. faecium, Enterobacter cloacae and Staphylococcus aureus. The methods followed were the determination of zones inhibition, Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Fractional Inhibitory Concentration Index (FICI). Tigecycline together with fermented juice exhibited larger Zones of Inhibition (ZOI) in strains of E. faecium (65 ± 4.8 mm) compared to the respective ZOI with tigecycline and unfermented juice (no zone). The same outcome was also obtained with E. cloacae. Vancomycin together with fermented juice exhibited larger ZOI in strains of E. faecium (28 ± 2.2 mm) compared to the respective ZOI with vancomycin and unfermented juice (24 ± 2.3 mm). The lowest MIC values were recorded when tigecycline was combined with fermented cranberry juice against S. aureus strains, followed by the same combination of juice and antibiotic against E. cloacae strains. FICI revealed synergistic effects between fermented juice and tigecycline against a strain of E. faecium (A2020) and a strain of E. faecalis (A1940). Such effects were also observed in the case of fermented juice in combination with vancomycin against a strain of S. aureus (S18), as well as between fermented juice and tigecycline against E. cloacae (E1005 and E1007) strains. The results indicate that the antibacterial activity of juice fermented with the potentially probiotic L. paracasei K5 may be due to synergistic effects between some end fermentation products and the antibiotic agents examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Mantzourani
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Faculty of Agriculture Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Christos A. Bontsidis
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Faculty of Agriculture Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Stavros Plessas
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Faculty of Agriculture Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Athanasios Alexopoulos
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Faculty of Agriculture Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Eirini Theodoridou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Faculty of Agriculture Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Christina Tsigalou
- Department of Agriculture, Faculty of Agriculture, Food Science, Nutrition, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Chrysa Voidarou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - George Douganiotis
- Theageneio Cancer Hospital, 3rd Department of Clinical Oncology, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stavros L. Kazakos
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Faculty of Agriculture Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Service de Medicine Interne, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Faculty of Agriculture Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
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Stavropoulou E, Troillet N. [Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever : an emerging viral hemorrhagic fever in Europe]. Rev Med Suisse 2018; 14:1786-1789. [PMID: 30307137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever is transmitted by Hyalomma spp ticks or exposure to blood of infected persons or animals. It is present in European regions that are frequently visited by people living in Switzerland. It is suspected in case of fever with hemorrhagic signs and confirmed by PCR or serology. Because of its severity and potential for nosocomial transmission, it should be included of the differential diagnosis of fever in returning travelers in order to rapidly implement the adequate measures : hospitalisation with isolation precautions and treatment with ribavirin. In the absence of an effective vaccine, prevention consists of barriers precautions and postexposure prophylaxis with ribavirin in case of exposure to infected blood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicolas Troillet
- Service des maladies infectieuses, Institut Central des Hôpitaux, Hôpital du Valais, Avenue du Grand-Champsec 86, 1950 Sion
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Tsigalou C, Stavropoulou E, Bezirtzoglou E. Current Insights in Microbiome Shifts in Sjogren's Syndrome and Possible Therapeutic Interventions. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1106. [PMID: 29881381 PMCID: PMC5976780 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Sjogren's syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disease, among the most common ones, that targets mainly the exocrine glands as well as extra-glandular epithelial tissues. Their lymphocytic infiltration leads to manifestations from other organs (e.g., kidneys, lungs, liver, or thyroid), apart from sicca symptoms (xerostomia and keratoconjunctivitis). SS is more prevalent in women than in men (9:1). Moreover, p.SS patients are in increased risk to develop lymphoma. Certain autoantibodies (e.g., antibodies against ribonucleoprotein autoantigens Ro-SSA and La-SSB) are ultimate hallmarks for the disease. It was not known until recently that culture-independent techniques like next-generation sequencing (NGS) facilitate the study of the microbe communities in humans and scientists achieved to define the outlines of the microbiome contribution in health and disease. Researchers have started to investigate the alterations in diversity of the oral, ocular, or intestinal microbiota in SS. Recent studies indicate that dysbiosis may play a significant role in SS pathogenesis. At the same time, the cause or effect is not clear yet because the dysfunction of salivary glands induces alterations in oral and intestinal microbiome which is linked to worsen of symptoms and disease severity. If the human microbiome proves to play a key role in pathogenesis and manifestation of SS, the next step could be new and promising therapeutic approaches such as probiotics or prebiotics. This mini review focuses on the alterations of microbiome of SS patients, their connection with immune tolerance and new therapeutic strategies involving diet manipulation toward future personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Tsigalou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Service de Médecine Interne, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
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Rozos G, Voidarou C, Stavropoulou E, Skoufos I, Tzora A, Alexopoulos A, Bezirtzoglou E. Biodiversity and Microbial Resistance of Lactobacilli Isolated From the Traditional Greek Cheese Kopanisti. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:517. [PMID: 29623072 PMCID: PMC5875084 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.00517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Kopanisti is a Greek artisan cheese produced from raw milk in the island of Mykonos, Greece. The milk is left to rest for 12–24 h and then the rennet is added. After its formation the curd is left to drain for 2–3 days and is ready either for consumption (as tyrovolia fresh cheese), or with the addition of extra salt, the curd is left to ripen through further fermentation and surface development of Penicillium fungi, aprocess leading to the production of the traditional Greek cheese Kopanisti. From 120 samples of kopanisti, 574 Lactobacillus strains were isolated, distributed in 17 species (16 of them isolated from tyrovolia as well). Strains from 15 species were found resistant or multiresistant against 15 antimicrobial agents, representing all categories of antibiotics. Analysis revealed that the resistance was moderated during ripening of the curd from tyrovolia to Kopanisti. Resistance against penicillin G, ampicillin/sulbactam, clindamycin, chloramphenicol, streptomycin, trimethoprim, metronidazole, vancomycin, teichoplanin, and quinupristin/dalvopristin was significantly enhanced, while the resistance against ampicillin, erythromycin, oxytetracycline, gentamycin, and fucidic acid was significantly reduced. These changes during ripening suggest that resistance to antimicrobials is a dynamic process subjected to environmental factors. The biodiversity of isolated Lactobacillus strains is impressive and explains the exquisite sensorial characteristics of the cheese. However, the extent of the resistance is alarming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Rozos
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Chrysa Voidarou
- Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Food Technology and Nutrition, Department of Agricultural Technology, Technological Educational Institute of Epirus, Arta, Greece
| | - Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Service des Urgences, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Ioannis Skoufos
- Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Food Technology and Nutrition, Department of Agricultural Technology, Technological Educational Institute of Epirus, Arta, Greece
| | - Athina Tzora
- Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Food Technology and Nutrition, Department of Agricultural Technology, Technological Educational Institute of Epirus, Arta, Greece
| | - Athanasios Alexopoulos
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
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Abstract
Cytochromes are expressed in many different tissues of the human body. They are found mostly in intestinal and hepatic tissues. Cytochromes P450 (CYPs) are enzymes that oxidize substances using iron and are able to metabolize a large variety of xenobiotic substances. CYP enzymes are linked to a wide array of reactions including and O-dealkylation, S-oxidation, epoxidation, and hydroxylation. The activity of the typical P450 cytochrome is influenced by a variety of factors, such as genus, environment, disease state, herbicide, alcohol, and herbal medications. However, diet seems to play a major role. The mechanisms of action of dietary chemicals, macro- and micronutrients on specific CYP isoenzymes have been extensively studied. Dietary modulation has effects upon the metabolism of xenobiotics. Cytochromes harbor intra- or interindividual and intra- or interethnic genetic polymorphisms. Bacteria were shown to express CYP-like genes. The tremendous metabolic activity of the microbiota is associated to its abundant pool of CYP enzymes, which catalyze phase I and II reactions in drug metabolism. Disease states, intestinal disturbances, aging, environmental toxic effects, chemical exposures or nutrition modulate the microbial metabolism of a drug before absorption. A plethora of effects exhibited by most of CYP enzymes can resemble those of proinflammatory cytokines and IFNs. Moreover, they are involved in the initiation and persistence of pathologic pain by directly activating sensory neurons and inflammatory cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, Orestiada, Greece
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Abstract
In most developed countries, ageing of the population started more than a century ago and it seems to be emerged in a wide range of developing countries as well. Moreover, research into ageing has moved forward in extremely rapidly rhythms nowadays, and the scientific area is of great interest, as implications for nearly all sectors of society, including work, social, economic features, in addition to nutrition and health issues which are involved. The fragile elder population is affected and experienced more frequently infections than the younger population. Infections in elderly patients are of major medical importance because of hormonal changes, increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, abnormalities of the telomeres which could cause a dysfunction of the immune system called immunosenescence and malnutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisavet Stavropoulou
- a CHUV (Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Service des Urgences , rue du Bugnon 46, Lausanne , Vaud , Switzerland
| | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- b Faculty of Agricultural Development , Department of Food Science and Technology and Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Democritus University of Thrace , Orestiada , Greece
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Popa M, Hussien MD, Cirstea A, Grigore R, Lazar V, Bezirtzoglou E, Chifiriuc MC, Sakizlian M, Stavropoulou E, Bertesteanu S. Insights on Metal Based Dental Implants and their Interaction with the Surrounding Tissues. Curr Top Med Chem 2016; 15:1614-21. [PMID: 25877088 DOI: 10.2174/1568026615666150414144033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2014] [Revised: 02/17/2015] [Accepted: 02/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
At present, the use of dental implants is a very common practice as tooth loss is a frequent problem and can occur as a result of disease or trauma. An implant is usually made of biocompatible materials that do not cause rejection reactions and allow the implant union with the respective bone. To achieve this goal, the implant surface may have different structures and coatings, generally used to increase the adherence of the implant to the bone and to decrease the risk of the periimplantar inflammatory reactions. This review gives some insights of the metal based materials used for dental implants, their limits, improvement strategies as well as the pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of periimplantary diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Democritus University of Thrace Faculty of Agricultural Development, Department of Food Science and Technology Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, 68200-Orestiada, Greece.
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Mitropoulou G, Fitsiou E, Stavropoulou E, Papavassilopoulou E, Vamvakias M, Pappa A, Oreopoulou A, Kourkoutas Y. Composition, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antiproliferative activity of Origanum dictamnus (dittany) essential oil. Microb Ecol Health Dis 2015; 26:26543. [PMID: 25952773 PMCID: PMC4424236 DOI: 10.3402/mehd.v26.26543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2014] [Revised: 03/31/2015] [Accepted: 04/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Background Nowadays, there has been an increased interest in essential oils from various plant origins as potential antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antiproliferative agents. This trend can be mainly attributed to the rising number and severity of food poisoning outbreaks worldwide along with the recent negative consumer perception against artificial food additives and the demand for novel functional foods with possible health benefits. Origanum dictamnus (dittany) is an aromatic, tender perennial plant that only grows wild on the mountainsides and gorges of the island of Crete in Greece. Objective The aim of the present study was to investigate the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antiproliferative properties of O. dictamnus essential oil and its main components and assess its commercial potential in the food industry. Design O. dictamnus essential oil was initially analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) to determine semi-quantitative chemical composition of the essential oils. Subsequently, the antimicrobial properties were assayed and the minimum inhibitory and non-inhibitory concentration values were determined. The antioxidant activity and cytotoxic action against the hepatoma adenocarcinoma cell line HepG2 of the essential oil and its main components were further evaluated by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and by the sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay, respectively. Results The main constituents of O. dictamnus essential oil identified by GC–MS analysis were carvacrol (52.2%), γ-terpinene (8.4%), p-cymene (6.1%), linalool (1.4%), and caryophyllene (1.3%). O. dictamnus essential oil and its main components were effective against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella Enteritidis, Salmonella typhimurium, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Aspergillus niger. In addition, the estimated IC50 value for the DPPH radical scavenging activity for O. dictamnus essential oil was 0.045±0.0042% (v/v) and was mainly attributed to carvacrol. The EC50 value for the essential oil in the 72h SRB assay in HepG2 cells was estimated to be 0.0069±0.00014% (v/v). Among the individual constituents tested, carvacrol was the most bioactive compound and accounted for the observed antiproliferative activity of the essential oil. Conclusions The results revealed that O. dictamnus essential oil is a noteworthy growth inhibitor against the microbes studied. It also possesses significant antioxidant activity and demonstrated excellent cytotoxicity against HepG2 cells. Taken together, O. dictamnus essential oil may represent an effective and inexpensive source of potent natural antimicrobial agents with health-promoting properties, which may be incorporated in food systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregoria Mitropoulou
- Applied Microbiology and Molecular Biotechnology Research Group, Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Eleni Fitsiou
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Research Group, Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Applied Microbiology and Molecular Biotechnology Research Group, Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece.,Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | | | - Manolis Vamvakias
- Vioryl, Chemical and Agricultural Industry, Research S.A., Afidnes, Greece
| | - Aglaia Pappa
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Research Group, Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | | | - Yiannis Kourkoutas
- Applied Microbiology and Molecular Biotechnology Research Group, Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece;
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Fournomiti M, Kimbaris A, Mantzourani I, Plessas S, Theodoridou I, Papaemmanouil V, Kapsiotis I, Panopoulou M, Stavropoulou E, Bezirtzoglou EE, Alexopoulos A. Antimicrobial activity of essential oils of cultivated oregano (Origanum vulgare), sage (Salvia officinalis), and thyme (Thymus vulgaris) against clinical isolates of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Microb Ecol Health Dis 2015; 26:23289. [PMID: 25881620 PMCID: PMC4400296 DOI: 10.3402/mehd.v26.23289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2013] [Revised: 02/09/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oregano (Origanum vulgare), sage (Salvia officinalis), and thyme (Thymus vulgaris) are aromatic plants with ornamental, culinary, and phytotherapeutic use all over the world. In Europe, they are traditionally used in the southern countries, particularly in the Mediterranean region. The antimicrobial activities of the essential oils (EOs) derived from those plants have captured the attention of scientists as they could be used as alternatives to the increasing resistance of traditional antibiotics against pathogen infections. Therefore, significant interest in the cultivation of various aromatic and medicinal plants is recorded during the last years. However, to gain a proper and marketable chemotype various factors during the cultivation should be considered as the geographical morphology, climatic, and farming conditions. In this frame, we have studied the antimicrobial efficiency of the EOs from oregano, sage, and thyme cultivated under different conditions in a region of NE Greece in comparison to the data available in literature. METHODS Plants were purchased from a certified supplier, planted, and cultivated in an experimental field under different conditions and harvested after 9 months. EOs were extracted by using a Clevenger apparatus and tested for their antibacterial properties (Minimum inhibitory concentration - MIC) against clinical isolates of multidrug resistant Escherichia coli (n=27), Klebsiella oxytoca (n=7), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (n=16) strains by using the broth microdilution assay. RESULTS Our results showed that the most sensitive organism was K. oxytoca with a mean value of MIC of 0.9 µg/mL for oregano EOs and 8.1 µg/mL for thyme. The second most sensitive strain was K. pneumoniae with mean MIC values of 9.5 µg/mL for thyme and 73.5 µg/mL for oregano EOs. E. coli strains were among the most resistant to EOs antimicrobial action as the observed MICs were 24.8-28.6 µg/mL for thyme and above 125 µg/mL for thyme and sage. Most efficient were the EOs from thyme followed by those of oregano. CONCLUSIONS With MIC values above 150 µg/mL, sage EOs did not show any antibacterial efficiency against the majority of the strains. However, no significant differences were observed concerning the antimicrobial action of all EOs originating from irrigated versus non-irrigated cultivated aromatic plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Fournomiti
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology & Hygiene, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Athanasios Kimbaris
- Laboratory of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Ioanna Mantzourani
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology & Hygiene, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Stavros Plessas
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology & Hygiene, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Irene Theodoridou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology & Hygiene, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | | | | | - Maria Panopoulou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | | | - Eugenia E Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology & Hygiene, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece;
| | - Athanasios Alexopoulos
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology & Hygiene, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
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Vadalouca A, Raptis E, Moutzouri A, Stavropoulou E, Siafaka I, Argyra E. 443 PREGABALIN FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF NEUROPATHIC CANCER PAIN: PRELIMINARY RESULTS. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/s1754-3207(10)70448-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Alexopoulos A, Tzatzimakis G, Bezirtzoglou E, Plessas S, Stavropoulou E, Sinapis E, Abas Z. Microbiological quality and related factors of sheep milk produced in farms of NE Greece. Anaerobe 2011; 17:276-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2011.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2011] [Revised: 03/14/2011] [Accepted: 03/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Voidarou C, Vassos D, Rozos G, Alexopoulos A, Plessas S, Tsinas A, Skoufou M, Stavropoulou E, Bezirtzoglou E. Microbial challenges of poultry meat production. Anaerobe 2011; 17:341-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2011.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2011] [Revised: 05/18/2011] [Accepted: 05/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Voidarou C, Alexopoulos A, Plessas S, Karapanou A, Mantzourani I, Stavropoulou E, Fotou K, Tzora A, Skoufos I, Bezirtzoglou E. Antibacterial activity of different honeys against pathogenic bacteria. Anaerobe 2011; 17:375-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2011.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2010] [Revised: 03/14/2011] [Accepted: 03/15/2011] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Plessas S, Alexopoulos A, Mantzourani I, Koutinas A, Voidarou C, Stavropoulou E, Bezirtzoglou E. Application of novel starter cultures for sourdough bread production. Anaerobe 2011; 17:486-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2011.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2010] [Revised: 03/12/2011] [Accepted: 03/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Gerokomou V, Voidarou C, Vatopoulos A, Velonakis E, Rozos G, Alexopoulos A, Plessas S, Stavropoulou E, Bezirtzoglou E, Demertzis P, Akrida-Demertzi K. Physical, chemical and microbiological quality of ice used to cool drinks and foods in Greece and its public health implications. Anaerobe 2011; 17:351-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2011.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2011] [Accepted: 06/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Alexopoulos A, Plessas S, Voidarou C, Noussias H, Stavropoulou E, Mantzourani I, Tzora A, Skoufos I, Bezirtzoglou E. Microbial ecology of fish species ongrowing in Greek sea farms and their watery environment. Anaerobe 2011; 17:264-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2011.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2011] [Revised: 03/09/2011] [Accepted: 03/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Voidarou C, Alexopoulos A, Plessas S, Noussias H, Stavropoulou E, Fotou K, Tzora A, Skoufos I, Bezirtzoglou E, Demertzi-Akrida K. Microbiological quality of grey-mullet roe. Anaerobe 2011; 17:273-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2011.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2010] [Revised: 03/13/2011] [Accepted: 03/14/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Voidarou C, Tzora A, Malamou O, Akrida-Demertzi K, Demertzis PG, Vassos D, Rozos G, Alexopoulos A, Plessas S, Stavropoulou E, Skoufou M, Bezirtzoglou E, Riganakos G. Chemical and microbiological characterization of artisan inoculants used for the fermentation of traditional dairy products in Epirus area (Greece). Anaerobe 2011; 17:354-7. [PMID: 21839182 DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2011.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2011] [Revised: 07/06/2011] [Accepted: 07/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The artisan production of a variety of dairy products is a historical tradition since antiquity, which is still practiced nowadays, in the area of Epirus, (northwestern Greece). The common denominator of these products, regardless of the final form of the end product, is the fermentation of raw milk by the use of dried artisan inoculants made of the dehydrated rumen of small ruminants, mainly lambs. The aim of this research project is to study the microbiological parameters as well as certain technological parameters (chymosin activity and lipolytic activity) of these inoculants. The results revealed a wide biodiversity of microorganisms such as Lactobacilli, Lactococci, Leuconostoc, Pediococci, Streptococci, Bifidobacteria, Enterococci, Clostridia and coliforms. Chymosin activity and lipolytic activity were found to be higher in artisan inoculants than in the commercial ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Voidarou
- Technological Institute of Epirus, Laboratory of Animal Health and Infectious Diseases, Department of Animal Production, Arta, Greece.
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Voidarou C, Alexopoulos A, Plessas S, Stavropoulou E, Fotou K, Tzora A, Skoufos I, Bezirtzoglou E. Hygienic quality and antibiotic resistance profile of sliced butchery. Anaerobe 2011; 17:344-50. [PMID: 21722746 DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2011.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2011] [Revised: 05/30/2011] [Accepted: 06/01/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
In order to investigate the microbiological quality of different meat products on the Greek market, 200 samples were collected from the following preparations: boiled turkey (n=50), boiled pork ham (n=50), smoked turkey (n=50) and smoked pork ham (n=50). In all cold meat preparations Clostridium perfringens vegetative and spore forms, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and other Clostridium sp lec(-), as well as Lactobacillus, Bacillus sp. and Salmonella sp. were recovered. For instance Bacillus cereus was present in 6% of the samples. L. monocytogenes, Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli were rarely present (1-4%) while Yersinia enterocolitica and Campylobacter lari were absent. Differences in the occurrence of S. aureus, Salmonella sp., E. coli and spore forms of C. perfringens in boiled and smoked samples, reflects either the differences in the processing of the foods or could be associated to the extensive handling by the personnel during the purchasing (storage, slicing, wrapping). Antibiotic resistance on specific antibiotics for each pathogen was also studied. A multiresistance antibiotic profile was effective for most bacterial strains, and pronounced resistance profiles were observed for the commonly used antibiotics as ampicillin, penicillin, cephalothin, streptomycin followed by ceftriaxone and gentamycin. Albeit this high observed resistance profile, the tested strains generally conserved their susceptibility to amikacin, aztreonam, chloramphenicol and tylosin conserved an almost absent resistance. Antibiotics commonly used for therapeutic purposes, as well as antibiotics added to feed stuff of animals for increasing animal flesh production should contribute to the extensive spreading of antibiotic resistance in food and the environment. Systematically monitoring of the microbiological quality of cold butchery preparations must be done, in order to preserve food quality, optimizing the processing and elaboration methods of the product and safeguard the public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Voidarou
- Technological Educational Institute of Epirus, Arta, GR47100, Greece
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Vavias S, Alexopoulos A, Plessas S, Stefanis C, Voidarou C, Stavropoulou E, Bezirtzoglou E. Microbial ecology of the watery ecosystems of Evros river in North Eastern Greece and its influence upon the cultivated soil ecosystem. Anaerobe 2011; 17:325-9. [PMID: 21669296 DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2011.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2011] [Accepted: 05/12/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the microbial ecosystem of cultivated soils along the Evros river in NE Greece. Evros river together with its derivative rivers constitute the capital source of life and sustainable development of the area. Along this riverside watery ecosystem systematic agro-cultures were developed such as wheat, corn and vegetable cultures. The evaluation of the ecosystem microbial charge was conducted in both axes which are the watery ecosystem and the riverside cultivated soil area. Considerable discrimination of water quality was observed when considering chemical and microbiological parameters of the Evros river ecosystem. Ardas river possesses a better water quality than Evros and Erythropotamos, which is mainly due to the higher quantities that these two rivers accumulate from industrial, farming and urban residues leading to higher degree of pollution. An increased microbial pollution was recorded in two of the three rivers monitored and a direct relation in microbial and chemical charging between water and cultivated-soil ecosystems was observed. The protection of these ecosystems with appropriate cultivated practices and control of human and animal activities will define the homeostasis of the environmental area.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Vavias
- Democritus University of Thrace, Faculty of Agricultural Development, Laboratory of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Hygiene, 193 Pandazidou Str, GR68200 Orestiada, Greece.
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Voidarou C, Bezirtzoglou E, Alexopoulos A, Plessas S, Stefanis C, Papadopoulos I, Vavias S, Stavropoulou E, Fotou K, Tzora A, Skoufos I. Occurrence of Clostridium perfringens from different cultivated soils. Anaerobe 2011; 17:320-4. [PMID: 21621626 DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2011.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2011] [Accepted: 05/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The occurrence of Clostridium perfringens was estimated in 750 samples originated from a variety of soils bearing various bulb crops: Brawnica oderacea (vegetable), Olea europaea, Daucus carota (carote), Solanum tuberosum (potato), Phaseolus vulgaris (green haricot), Beta vulgaris var. rapaceum (beetroot), Cucurbita pepo (squash), Allium cepa (onion), Cucumis sativus (cucumber) and Capsicum annum (pepper). All isolated strains were tested for their antimicrobial activities to amoxicillin, penicillin G, kanamycin, tetracycline, streptomycin, erythromycin, chloramphenicol and metronidazole. When considering the type of the bulb production, it was observed increased number of C. perfringens spore densities in the most undersurface bulb soils. Moreover, C. perfringens spore are likely to occur in particularly large numbers in soil contaminated by fecal matter. Additionally, there is a close relationship between the spore amount and nature of organic content. Presence of C. perfringens was associated with acidic soil. Most of our strains showed resistance to the studied antibiotics applied usually for human and veterinary care. A systematic monitoring of the cultivated soil ecosystems must include bacteriological parameters together with chemical indices of organic pollution in order to obtain information adequate for assessing their overall quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Voidarou
- Technological Educational Institute of Epirus, Arta GR47100, Greece
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Rallis E, Stavropoulou E, Korfitis C. Granuloma annulare of childhood successfully treated with potent topical corticosteroids previously unresponsive to tacrolimus ointment 0.1%: report of three cases. Clin Exp Dermatol 2009; 34:e475-6. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2230.2009.03542.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Rallis E, Stavropoulou E. Pachyonychia congenital type 1 and alopecia areata in mother and son - pathogenetic association or a simple coexistence? J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2009; 23:442-3. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-3083.2008.02907.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Stavropoulou E. 555. Local Anaesthetic Cream (EMAL®) for Excacerbation of Pain in Trigeminal Neuralgia. Reg Anesth Pain Med 2008. [DOI: 10.1136/rapm-00115550-200809001-00372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Stavropoulou E, Balkamou X, Giannaka F, Papadopoulos G, Avgustatou K, Stamatopoulos G. 303. Opiod-Induced Adverse Reactions of Intravenous Patient Controlled Analgesia: Comparison of Morphine and Fentanyl for Acute Postoperative Analgesia. Reg Anesth Pain Med 2008. [DOI: 10.1136/rapm-00115550-200809001-00321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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