Farmed insects can offer an environmentally sustainable aquafeed or livestock feed ingredient. The value of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) (BSF) larvae could be improved by enrichment in omega-3 through the dietary inclusion of seaweed. However, the industry practice of drying seaweed at low temperatures to retain nutritional properties may benefit the survival of human pathogenic bacteria, particularly if the seaweed has been harvested from contaminated water. Here we have demonstrated that E. coli and E. coli O157H7 died-off in seaweed dried at 50 °C, although both were detected in the dried powder following 72 h storage. V. parahaemolyticus fell below the level of detection in stored seaweed after drying at ≥ 50 °C, but L. monocytogenes remained detectable, and continued to grow in seaweed dried at ≤60 °C. Therefore, drying seaweed at low temperatures risks pathogen carry-over into insects destined for animal feed. BSF larvae reared on an artificially contaminated seaweed-supplemented diet also became contaminated by all four bacteria present in the supplement. Water quality at seaweed harvesting sites, seaweed desiccation, and insect rearing practices, represent critical points where development of regulatory standards could achieve targeted control of pathogenic hazards.Thermal resistance among Salmonella serovars has been shown to vary, however, such data are minimal for Salmonella inoculated onto low moisture foods. We evaluated survival and subsequent thermal resistance for 32 strains of Salmonella from four serovars (Agona, Enteritidis, Montevideo, and Tennessee) on flaxseed over 24 weeks. After inoculation, flaxseeds were adjusted to aw = 0.5 and stored at 22 °C. After 24 weeks at 22 °C, strains of serovar Agona had a significantly slower rate of reduction compared to those of Enteritidis and Montevideo (adj. p less then 0.05). Inoculated flaxseeds were processed at 71 °C with vacuum steam pasteurization at 4 time points during storage. Average initial D71°C values ranging from 1.0 to 1.5 min were similar across serovars. Over 24 weeks, D71°C varied in a serovar-dependent manner. D71°C at 8, 16, and 24 weeks did not change significantly for Enteritidis and Montevideo but did for Tennessee and Agona. While significant, the differences in D71°C over time were less than 1 min, indicating that storage time prior to heat treatment would have a minimal effect on the processing time required to inactivate Salmonella on flaxseed.In this study, we investigated the antimicrobial activity of the X-ray irradiation and citric acid (CA) combination against Escherichia coli O157H7 and Listeria monocytogenes on the surface of spinach leaves and elucidated the mechanisms underlying their synergistic interaction. Upon treatment with 0.3 kGy X-ray irradiation and 1% CA combination, the cell counts of E. https://www.selleckchem.com/products/irpagratinib.html coli O157H7 and L. monocytogenes reduced by 4.23 and 3.69 log CFU/mL on spinach leaves, respectively. The synergistic reduction in the cell counts of E. coli O157H7 and L. monocytogenes by the combination treatment was 0.95 and 1.14 log units, respectively. The X-ray and CA combination exerts its antimicrobial effect by damaging the bacterial cell membrane and enhancing the generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species in the pathogens. The enhanced bactericidal effect of the combination treatment may not be due to the loss of intracellular enzyme activity. We also evaluated the effect of the combination treatment on the quality attributes of spinach leaves. The combination treatment did not result in adverse changes in color and texture of spinach leaves. These results demonstrate the potential of citric acid and X-ray irradiation combination for decontaminating foodborne pathogens on fresh produce.The present study investigated the effects of CS@Fe3O4 nanoparticles combined with microwave or far infrared thawing on microbial diversity of red seabream (Pagrus major) fillets in terms of thawing loss, pH, TVB-N, classical microbiological enumeration and high-throughput sequencing, and the same parameters were also studied for 24 h after thawing. Four thawing methods were used microwave thawing (MT), far-infrared thawing (FT), CS@Fe3O4 nanoparticles combined with microwave thawing (CMT) and CS@Fe3O4 nanoparticles combined with far-infrared thawing (CFT). The results showed that CFT and CMT had lower values of pH and TVB-N compared to the FT and MT. Based on conventional microbial count analysis, CFT and CMT samples also maintained lower TVC, pseudomonas and LAB counts. Using high-throughput sequencing analysis, Compared with FT and MT, CFT and CMT samples showed a significant decrease in the proportion of the Pseudomonadaceae flora. However, the proportion of Pseudomonas, Bacillaceae and Thermaceae also increased significantly after 24 h of storage, which indicated that become the predominant microbiota in red seabream (Pagrus major) fillets.Background Early reports on patients with cancer and COVID-19 have suggested a high mortality rate compared with the general population. Patients with thoracic malignancies are thought to be particularly susceptible to COVID-19 given their older age, smoking habits, and pre-existing cardiopulmonary comorbidities, in addition to cancer treatments. We aimed to study the effect of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection on patients with thoracic malignancies. Methods The Thoracic Cancers International COVID-19 Collaboration (TERAVOLT) registry is a multicentre observational study composed of a cross-sectional component and a longitudinal cohort component. Eligibility criteria were the presence of any thoracic cancer (non-small-cell lung cancer [NSCLC], small-cell lung cancer, mesothelioma, thymic epithelial tumours, and other pulmonary neuroendocrine neoplasms) and a COVID-19 diagnosis, either laboratory confirmed with RT-PCR, suspected with symptoms and contacts, or radiologicallyg history (OR 3·18, 95% CI 1·11-9·06) was associated with increased risk of death. Interpretation With an ongoing global pandemic of COVID-19, our data suggest high mortality and low admission to intensive care in patients with thoracic cancer. Whether mortality could be reduced with treatment in intensive care remains to be determined. With improved cancer therapeutic options, access to intensive care should be discussed in a multidisciplinary setting based on cancer specific mortality and patients' preference. Funding None.

sperm concentration thresholds of azoospermia or less then 1 million/mL, are applied, the number of tests decreased to 50.5% (1442 tests) and 23.1% (643 tests), respectively. Approximately $108,150 and $48,225 would be saved if the sperm thresholds were azoospermia and less then 1 million/mL, respectively CONCLUSION The current threshold of sperm concentration for Y-chromosome deletions is controversial. The new proposed sperm threshold for genetic testing of 1 million/mL would increase sensitivity and more cost-effective compared to the current threshold.Patulin (PAT) is a widespread mycotoxin that harms the health of both humans and animals. In this study, among the 17 tested Lactobacillus plantarum strains, L. plantarum 13M5, isolated from traditional Chinese fermented foods, showed the highest PAT degradation rate of up to 43.8% (PAT 5 mg/L). Evaluation of the living and dead 13M5 cells revealed that only the living cells had the ability to remove PAT and degrade it into E-ascladiol. A cell-based assay revealed that L. plantarum 13M5 administration alleviated PAT-induced injuries in Caco-2 cells, including cytotoxicity, oxidative stress, and tight junction disruption. Our results suggest that L. plantarum 13M5 has the potential to reduce PAT toxicity and can thus be used as a probiotic supplement to reduce or eliminate the toxicity of PAT ingested from diet.
Observational studies have shown promising therapeutic effects of long-pulsed neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (LP-NdYAG) laser on warts.

To evaluate whether LP-NdYAG laser was superior to cryotherapy for cutaneous warts.

In this study, 150 adult patients with warts were randomized equally to receive laser or cryotherapy every 3-4 weeks, a maximum of 4 sessions. The primary outcomes were cure rate at 16 weeks and 6 months; secondary outcomes included time to clearance of warts and treatment-related adverse effects.

There was no difference in the cure rate for laser versus cryotherapy at 16 weeks (54.1% vs. 46.7%) and 6 months (59.5% vs. 57.3%). However, time to clearance of warts, up to 16 weeks and 6 months, tended to be shorter for laser versus cryotherapy ( P = .04 and .08, respectively). Post-hoc analyses showed a significantly higher cure rate for laser versus cryotherapy in 3 subgroups of HPV 2/27/57-induced recalcitrant warts, but not in their counterpart subgroups. Laser had more mild adverse effects.

Single-center.

The overall therapeutic effects of LP-NdYAG laser were similar to cryotherapy, but laser may be more effective to relatively recalcitrant warts and may associate with shorter time to clearance of warts.
The overall therapeutic effects of LP-NdYAG laser were similar to cryotherapy, but laser may be more effective to relatively recalcitrant warts and may associate with shorter time to clearance of warts.Cooperation significantly impacts a species' population dynamics as individuals choose others to associate with based upon fitness opportunities. Models of these dynamics typically assume that individuals can freely move between groups. Such an assumption works well for facultative co-operators (e.g. flocking birds, schooling fish, and swarming locusts) but less so for obligate co-operators (e.g. canids, cetaceans, and primates). With obligate co-operators, the fitness consequences from associations are stronger compared to facultative co-operators. Consequently, individuals within a group should be more discerning and selective over their associations, rejecting new members and even removing current members. Incorporating such aspects into population models may better reflect obligately cooperative species. In this paper, we create and analyze a model of the population dynamics of obligate co-operators. In our model, a behavioral game determines within-group population dynamics that then spill over into between-group dynamics. Our analysis shows that group number increases when population dynamics are stable, but additional groups lead to unstable population dynamics and an eventual collapse of group numbers. https://www.selleckchem.com/products/necrosulfonamide.html Using a more general analysis, we identify a fundamental mismatch between the stability of the behavioral dynamics and the stability of the population dynamics. When one is stable, the other is not. Our results suggest that group turnover may be inherent to the population dynamics of obligate co-operators. The instability arises from a non-chaotic deterministic process, and such dynamics should be predictable and testable.Pulmonary fibrosis is characterized by destruction and remodeling of the lung due to an accumulation of collagen and other extracellular matrix components in the tissue. This results in progressive irreversible decreases in lung capacity, impaired gas exchange and eventually, hypoxemia. A number of inhaled and systemic toxicants including bleomycin, silica, asbestos, nanoparticles, mustard vesicants, nitrofurantoin, amiodarone, and ionizing radiation have been identified. In this article, we review the role of innate and adaptive immune cells and mediators they release in the pathogenesis of fibrotic pathologies induced by pulmonary toxicants. A better understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying fibrogenesis may lead to the development of new therapeutic approaches for patients with these debilitating and largely irreversible chronic diseases.Objectives There is a global increase in infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. The majority of research is on bacteremic Gram-negative infections (GNI), leaving a knowledge gap on the burden of non-bacteremic GNI. Our aim is to describe characteristics and determine the burden of bacteremic and non-bacteremic GNI in hospitalized patients in the Netherlands. Methods We conducted a prospective cohort study of patients in eight hospitals with microbiologically confirmed GNI, between June 2013 and November 2015. In each hospital the first five adults meeting the eligibility criteria per week were enrolled. We estimated the national incidence and mortality of GNI by combining the cohort data with a national surveillance database for antimicrobial resistance. Results 1,954 patients with GNI were included of which 758 (39%) were bloodstream infections (BSI). 243 GNI (12%) involved multi-drug resistant pathogens. 30-day mortality rate was 11.1% (n = 217) Estimated national incidences of non-bacteremic GNI and bacteremic GNI in hospitalized adults were 74 (95% CI 58 - 89) and 86 (95% CI 72-100) per 100,000 person years, yielding estimated annual numbers of 30-day all-cause mortality deaths of 1,528 (95% CI 1,102-1,954) for bacteremic and 982 (95% CI 688 - 1,276) for non-bacteremic GNI.

Choosing a Heating Stove

A heating stove is an effective method to heat your home. But there are numerous elements to think about when selecting a stove that will finest fit your needs.

For example, a stove with soapstone cladding will keep heat longer. It also lowers emissions and pollutant particles. Also, avoid including excessive wood at one time. Opening the firewood door too rapidly will increase smoke and unburnt unstable compounds.
Gas

Gas stoves are a safe, reputable, and efficient method to heat your home. They use easy operation and can help you minimize energy costs. With a little understanding, you can even be an expert on your own stove and optimize its advantages.

Gas stove burners use piped natural or lp gas to create flames for cooking. The procedure starts when you turn the control knob to a position identified 'LITE' or press the ignition button. This opens the gas valve and allows fuel to stream to the burners through the gas line. When the control knob is turned further to modulate the flame size, an electrical trigger fires up the gas inside the burner hole to create the bigger open flame you see on the cooktop.

There are two kinds of burners utilized in a gas stove: standing pilot and electric stimulate. Standing pilot stoves have a small, continuous flame in between the front and back burners. When the stove is switched on, this flame lights the gas streaming to the burners through the gas line. Gas stoves with a standing pilot have the advantage of simplicity, requiring only a match or lighter to light them. Nevertheless, they take in fuel continually and require more maintenance than the other type of stove.

Modern gas stoves with an electric trigger ignition system have an internal digital control unit that utilizes an electrical stimulate to spark the natural or propane gas inside the burner holes. This system is more exact and faster than the standing pilot approach, with minimal hold-ups in between turning the knob and flame ignition. The electronic trigger also gets rid of the need for a continually burning pilot flame and offers safe, easy-to-use operation by just turning the control knob to the desired flame level.

Some property owners select ventless gas heating stoves. These stoves do not have a venting system to the outdoors, relying instead on an integrated fan that distributes combustion byproducts like carbon monoxide gas and laughing gas throughout the home. While they can be a safe and affordable alternative to vented stoves, they need to be used with caution as they can impact indoor air quality and are susceptible to carbon monoxide gas leakages.
Wood

Wood stoves have been around for 400 years, and while they've become more efficient, the fundamental concept hasn't altered. Logs are positioned into a firebox-- the central "stubborn belly" of the stove, surrounded by walls that keep the fire from dispersing. Air from vents feeds the flames, and hot gases vent out a chimney. The heat from the wood radiates into a room, while the smoke and other waste gases vent out to the outdoors. Many wood-burning stoves also operate as boilers, heating water to provide radiators throughout your home.

When selecting the type of fire wood to burn in your wood stove, choose experienced, low wetness wood. This will give you the very best heat output. Likewise, bear in mind that the BTU material of numerous types varies; hard woods like birch have a greater density than softwoods such as spruce.

The air flow through the stove can be changed by opening or closing the dampers at the top and bottom of the stove. This can fan the fire and increase combustion, or moisten it to decrease smoke and volatile compounds in the room. Lots of wood stoves do not have automated air supply controllers, so regulating the amount of oxygen to the fire is left approximately you.

Keeping your stove clean will likewise help it work more efficiently. Routinely cleaning out the flue vent and ash pit assists prevent soot accumulation, which can drop a stove's energy effectiveness by as much as 20%.

Since wood stoves produce such high levels of heat, it's essential to eliminate combustible items like drapes and furniture a minimum of 3 feet from the stove and a minimum of 6 inches from vulnerable walls. Stoves must likewise be located a safe range from flammable roofs and gutters. Clearances are a lot more essential when you live in a designated smoke control area, as you'll require to fulfill particular flue standards and follow local guidelines for running wood-burning stoves.
Pellets

Pellet stoves burn small, compressed wood pellets made from sawdust and other wooden by-products along with a wide array of other biomass products. These pellets are thick, so they burn very hot and easily. Unlike standard wood burning fireplaces, which have efficiency rates just around 5 to 15%, pellet stoves can attain effectiveness levels of approximately 88%. This is because they use an automatic feed system to keep the fire addressing simply the right level of strength.

These heating appliances can be either freestanding systems that look like wood burning stoves or fireplace inserts for usage in existing fireplaces. Whether you decide for a freestanding or an insert model, these devices can be installed in living spaces and living room and are suitable as primary heat sources for a lot of areas in the home. They can also be used to supplement or replace gas or oil heaters and boilers in some homes.

Compared to wood-burning stoves, pellet heating units need much less maintenance and cleansing. A lot of models have an auger-type burner that immediately feeds pellets into a combustion chamber, where they are instantly sparked by an electric ignition mechanism. A few of these stoves have hoppers that hold enough pellets to supply a fire for one to several days; you merely add more when the hopper runs low. The automated feeding system and thermostatic controls can change the temperature level output to your wanted setting without your intervention.



The warm air is then distributed by a fan to your room via forced convection. Depending on the specific design you pick, some pellet stoves may likewise have an ash drawer below the burn pot that can be easily gotten rid of for easy disposal of the leftover ashes.

Pellet stoves need electricity to run, so you will require to have a back-up system in case of a power failure. This could be a generator, a battery or an electrical connection to your house's electrical power grid. This is an essential factor to consider because if the stove loses power, it will stop to run and your home will remain unheated up until the stove is manually rebooted.
Electric

A freestanding electric stove warms an area using electrical energy, providing the comfort of a wood-burning stove without the preliminary installation expenses or maintenance requirements. These types of stoves have ended up being increasingly popular, due to their flexibility and affordability.

These stoves work by passing electrical current through a metal coil that quickly starts to heat up. Then, a fan blows heated air around the room to disperse heat. Alternatively, some models have actually infrared technology that heats up a ceramic plate that radiates heat into the area. Both designs of heating have thermostat controls that permit you to fine-tune the level of heat in your area.

An electric stove is likewise a convenient alternative to a conventional log burner, specifically for households with children or animals. Rather of having to load fuel, you simply plug the stove in and push a button to turn it on. They're also much easier to keep than wood-burning stoves, as they don't need any sweeping or ash clean-up.

The majority of electric stoves have a buffer layer in between the element and pots and pans surface area, which avoids huge temperature level swings from impacting the cooking surface. http://martinsenboje.jigsy.com/entries/general/What-Is-Heater-Fireplace-Electric-And-Why-Is-Everyone-Talking-About-It helps to produce constant heat. Most of electric stoves utilize a bimetallic switch to regulate the current flowing through the element and develop this on-off pattern. This is much cheaper and more energy efficient than electronic devices that would continuously differ the present flow.

Unlike wood-burning stoves, electric stoves are exceptionally energy-efficient. Typically, they transform almost all of the energy they consume into heat. They're also much cleaner than their wood-burning counterparts, as they don't produce any emissions.

If you're wanting to update your living room, VonHaus has a large range of aesthetically pleasing electric stove heaters to select from. All our models include a thermal cut off function to stop your stove overheating for added safety. They likewise have a cool-touch outside that reduces burn risks, making them safe for homes with kids or animals. Our 1900W glass front stove heater has a beautiful LED log fire result that develops the illusion of a flickering flame, improving the aesthetic of your home and supplying you with an instantaneous sense of warmth.

Cat C Abroad: Checking Out the World with the Versatility of Your Car



Travel lovers frequently imagine experiencing the world-- not just by airplane or train, however through the freedom and flexibility that comes with road travel. For numerous, a Category C (Cat C) car license opens a wealth of opportunities for international exploration, offering an unrivaled way to see the sights, soak in diverse cultures, and develop incredible memories. But what does "Cat C Abroad" really involve, and what should you understand before venturing into foreign countries with such a vehicle? Let's dive into the fundamentals.

What is a Cat C License?
In Europe and the UK, a Cat C driving license allows holders to drive lorries weighing between 3,500 kg and 32,000 kg, usually large trucks, lorries, or heavy products cars (HGVs). Whether you're a truck motorist by occupation or someone who uses large automobiles for individual purposes-- such as RVs or motorhomes-- this license is essential for handling bigger, bulkier lorries.

Taking a Cat C vehicle abroad might suggest utilizing a heavy truck to carry products across borders or embarking on a grand road trip in a big motorhome. Either way, such an experience requires careful planning and awareness of guidelines specific to international driving.

Driving https://www.openlearning.com/u/hildebrandtdougherty-sqa9x7/blog/WhyEveryoneIsTalkingAboutCategoryCTheoreticalExamToday : Key Considerations
Examine Licensing Requirements
While your Cat C license permits you to operate heavy cars in the UK or EU (offered it meets the regional terms), you'll require to validate if it is legitimate in your destination country. Some nations may have additional requirements, such as acquiring an International Driving Permit (IDP), to supplement your UK or EU license.

Understand Local Road Rules
Driving rules and policies differ from country to country, especially when it comes to big lorries. Be sure to acquaint yourself with:

Speed limits for heavy vehicles.
Rest-time regulations for chauffeurs of HGVs (in Europe, these are strictly governed).
Weight constraints and road categories that restrict where bigger vehicles can go.
Lack of knowledge of these rules could lead to fines or legal problems.

Insurance coverage Coverage
Make certain your lorry insurance coverage uses coverage abroad, whether you're driving across EU countries or venturing more afield. Some countries need evidence of insurance coverage (referred to as a Green Card in Europe). Without adequate insurance coverage, you could deal with substantial charges or perhaps be prohibited from getting in with your car.

Interstate and Permits
Lots of nations, particularly in Europe, need heavy products cars to pay tolls or acquire a vignette-- a kind of roadway tax sticker-- for taking a trip on motorways. Some even have country-specific systems, such as the Eurovignette in northern Europe or the GO-Box in Austria, which may include pre-registration or extra setup.

Lorry Maintenance and Specifications
Regulations around roadworthiness can vary abroad. Guarantee your Cat C lorry fulfills the legal requirements in the location nation, consisting of emission standards (particularly in low-emission zones like those in Germany or France), brake systems, and appropriate load protecting. Breakdowns in foreign countries can be costly and demanding, so a thorough examination before departure is non-negotiable.

Plan Your Route
Not all roads are suitable for big lorries, and you may require to steer clear of narrow streets, low bridges, or city centers with size limitations. Buy a GPS created for HGVs or motorhomes to prevent incidents. Comprehensive path preparation also assists you find truck stops, refueling stations, and parking lot developed for large automobiles.

Popular Road Trips for Cat C Vehicles
Owning or having access to a Cat C lorry opens up distinct travel possibilities. Here are some popular routes and destinations for heavy car drivers:

The Alps (France, Switzerland, Austria).
With large roads and spectacular views, the Alps are a favorite amongst motorhome lovers. Stopping at beautiful camping areas and taking pleasure in outside activities makes this trip unforgettable, though winter tourists ought to prepare for harsh climate condition.

Scandinavia.
Nations like Norway and Sweden boast expansive, well-maintained roadways. The Trollstigen in Norway, though challenging, is a bucket-list experience for skilled motorists, while Sweden's E4 route offers gorgeous coastal views.

The European Motorway Network.
For those transporting products, the trans-European motorway network is vital. Iconic routes like the E40 (crossing from Belgium to Kazakhstan) make it possible for smooth motion throughout borders.

Spain and Portugal.
The Iberian Peninsula provides both city life and natural beauty. Chauffeurs in larger motorhomes, for example, can camp along bright Mediterranean beaches while checking out special towns and rural villages.

Driving Heavy Vehicles Post-Brexit.
For UK-based chauffeurs, the shift post-Brexit has ramifications when taking Cat C cars abroad. Here are some crucial updates:.

You might require a Green Card for insurance functions when driving in the EU.
The UK Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) may not constantly be acknowledged in EU nations. If you're driving as a professional heavy car driver, inspect the newest regulations for mutual acknowledgment.
Paperwork such as licenses, export files (for products transport), and custom-mades statements are now more critical than ever.
Benefits of Traveling Abroad in a Cat C Vehicle.
Freedom and Flexibility: Whether you're a professional motorist transferring items or a devoted tourist touring Europe, a Cat C car permits you to craft your own schedule and routes.
Efficient Cargo Transport: For those transferring goods worldwide, a Cat C automobile ensures you have the capability to bring bulk products throughout borders.
Distinct Travel Experiences: Large motorhomes or RVs make extended trips more comfy, total with the benefit of sleeping, cooking, and living in your car.
Last Thoughts.
Taking a Cat C automobile abroad is an amazing method to explore new areas while staying self-dependent and versatile. Nevertheless, extensive preparation is vital to guarantee you're certified with local laws and guidelines. From protecting the right permits to understanding roadway rules, each detail contributes in a smooth and pleasurable journey.

So, whether you're navigating Alpine passes, providing items across the continent, or outdoor camping under Scandinavian skies, the world is at your wheels. With the power of a Cat C lorry, adventure truly knows no bounds.

Research is crucial to the development of family medicine around the world. https://www.selleckchem.com/products/memantine-hydrochloride-namenda.html However, family physicians in practice often hesitate to enter into investigative endeavours. Common reasons for such hesitation include limited exposure to the process of conducting research and the belief that research is best conducted by academic scholars. Our intent here is to encourage clinically focused family physicians' involvement in research activities by explaining how they can cultivate inquisitiveness so as to develop questions for exploration. We present an approach to research that focuses on five steps emergent from the day-to-day, habitual practice of family medicine, wherever in the world it is practised. We illustrate this approach by describing a successful practice-based research study. We conclude by inviting all family physicians to consider integrating research into their practice lives so as to expand their professional horizons and help educate the next generation of global family physicians. © Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2019. Re-use permitted under CC BY-NC. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.Primary tonsillar tuberculosis is an uncommon entity and a diagnostic challenge. Misdiagnosis can be prevented with early professional para-clinical finding. The true diagnosis is often delayed and infection management depends on recognizing disease patterns and early laboratory documentation. This rare clinical caseation granuloma with positive clinical symptoms, negative results of radiology/laboratory and alone based on histopathological finding without any Mycobacterium particle indicates the role of an accurate laboratory/pathology finding for urgent medical intervention treatment and lifesaving of patients, particularly in immunocompromised group. Copyright© 2019 Iranian Neuroscience Society.Background and Objectives Between 2007 and 2011, the mortality rate for burns patients at Dr. Soetomo General Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia was 14.1% and 60% were suspected to be sepsis-related. Immunosuppression, gut barrier disruption, and intestinal hypomotility cause bacterial and bacterial product translocation. Probiotics improve the intestinal microbiome and eventually reduce bacterial translocation, and an increased secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) secretion post-administration of a multi-species probiotic has been observed. We aimed to determine whether a single-strain probiotic administration could show strengthened intestinal immunity, through an increase in SIgA levels, as with multi-strain probiotics. Materials and Methods Sixteen burns patients from our hospital Burns Centre were randomized into three treatment groups, and the patients were administered either a placebo, a Lactobacillus reuteri protectis probiotic, or a Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 probiotic for 14 consecutive days. The SIgA levels were analyzed using ELISA pre- and post-treatment. Results The post-treatment SIgAlevelsin the placebo, Lactobacillusreuteri protectis probiotic, and Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 probiotic groups were 222.56±74.22 mg/dL, 223.92±68.89 mg/dL, and 332.38±64.27 mg/dL, respectively. Decreased SIgA levels were observed in the placebo (7.19±15.87) and in the Lactobacillus reuteri protectis probiotic (1.9920±14.76) groups, whereas an increase was seen in the SIgA level in the Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 probiotic group (58.26±77.41). Conclusion The Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 single-strain probiotic is generally superior to Lactobacillus reuteri protectis in altering intestinal immunity; however, this finding was not statistically significant. A multi-strain probiotic supplement is recommended for burns patients. Copyright© 2019 Iranian Neuroscience Society.Background and Objectives HEV infection is predominantly spread via the fecal-oral route; however, due to the presence of HEV RNA in the serum of healthy blood donors, there is a possibility of the transmissibility of HEV infection through blood. Multi-transfused thalassemia patients are one of the high risk groups for blood borne viruses. In this study, we evaluated the prevalence of HEV antibodies and HEV-RNA in thalassemia patients with HCV infection. Materials and Methods 120 anti-HCV positive thalassemia patient serum samples from Tehran province during April-June 2019 were assessed for the presence of total anti-HEV antibodies using of HEV Ab ELISA kit. All serum samples were assayed by Nested RT-PCR to detect HEV-RNA. Results The results of ELISA test showed that 2 out of 120 (1.67%) samples were positive for anti-HEV Ab. There was no statistically significant difference between anti-HEV antibody prevalence rate and sex, age and other risk factors. None of 120 (0.00%) samples were positive for HEV-RNA by Nested RT-PCR. Conclusion Seroprevalence of HEV in our study group was 1.67% which is less than HEV seroprevalence rate in Iranian general population. Therefore, it can be conclude that transmission of HEV infection via blood transfusion seems to be uncommon in Iran and the fecal-oral route can be the predominant mode of transmission in Iran; however, more studies are required to confirm this issue. Copyright© 2019 Iranian Neuroscience Society.Background and Objectives Food in healthcare settings are complementary to medical treatment, hence it should be produced in good sanitary conditions. In fact, hospitalized and immune-compromised patients are more likely to have foodborne infections than the rest of the community. The aim of our study is to evaluate the microbiological quality of food contact surfaces in a hospital kitchen in Morocco. Materials and Methods A total of 238 samples was collected from kitchen surfaces and analyzed for total aerobic mesophilic bacteria (AMC), Enterobacteriaceae and Staphylococcus aureus count and the presence of Salmonella spp., Pseudomonas spp. and Listeria monocytogenes. Results The bacteriological analysis shows that the highest rates of compliance with good hygienic conditions were obtained in baking worktops (77%) and serving meal worktops (50%) and the vegetables cutting boards (45.83%). In contrary, some surfaces show a low level of compliance, such as the raw meat cutting boards (96%). The isolated bacteria were S.