<abstract>
<title style='display:none'>Abstract</title>
The edaphic factors are the soil properties that affect the diversity of organisms living in the soil environment. These include soil structure, temperature, pH, and salinity. Some of them are influenced by man, but most are independent of human activity. These factors influence the species composition of soil microbial communities, but also their activity and functionality. The correlations between different abiotic factors and microbial groups described in this manuscript indicate both the complexity of the soil environment and its sensitivity to various stimuli.
1. Introduction. 2. Soil type and structure. 3. Soil pH and salinity. 4. Soil temperature. 5. Soil moisture. 6. Organic carbon and nitrogen content. 7. Heavy metals content. 8. Conclusions
</abstract>

Edaphic Factors And Their Influence On The Microbiological Biodiversity Of The Soil Environment

<abstract>
<title style='display:none'>Abstract</title>
Biosurfactants are a group of surface-active agents mainly produced by microorganisms and have a wide range of applications in industries as well as agriculture. Global usage of such biologically active compounds as detergents, bioremediation agents, cosmetic products is hugely dependent on their high production. New avenues of research have opened up due to this increased interest, most of which are focused on identifying specialized microorganisms capable of biosurfactant production. Screening methods for selection of biosurfactant producing bacteria are, therefore, of utmost importance in this endeavor. The aim of this review was to discuss various conventional and novel methods that can overcome the hurdles encountered in time effective, economical microbial biosurfactant screening. This review lists several important biosurfactant screening methods based on supernatant, biomass as well as culture media. New methods devised for biosurfactant screening in the last half decade such as surfactant dependent dye solubilization, metagenomic studies etc. are also explained in detail. A thorough grasp of both contemporary and anachronistic screening methodologies will not only lead to discoveries of novel native strains capable of biosurfactant production but also form the basis on which new screening methods can be devised.
</abstract>

Microbial Biosurfactant Screening: Diversity in Assessment Methods

<abstract>
<title style='display:none'>Abstract</title>
Air pollution is a major threat to human health. Biological air pollution is predominantly caused by the pollen of plants, fungi, bacteria and viruses. The main sources of microorganisms in the air include soil, water and the decomposition of organic matter, while anthropogenic sources are represented by landfills, wastewater treatment plants, composting facilities and traffic. Microorganism populations in the air can be seasonal or relatively constant, but the most frequent increase in their occurrence is recorded in the summer and autumn. Studies show that humidity, the presence of carbon monoxide and ozone concentrations are the main factors affecting the diversity of bacteria and the percentage of pathogenic bacteria present in outdoor air. Microorganisms in the air inside residential buildings are primarily concentrated on dust particles. Approximately 60% of dust microbiota are spores of mould fungi. The key emitters of microorganisms into the atmosphere are municipal wastewater treatment plants. The bacteria and pathogens released are potentially resistant to antibiotics, rendering the bioaerosols of wastewater treatment plants a possible hazard to human health. There is a need for further research aimed at explaining the magnitude of impacts of air microorganisms on human health.
1. Introduction. 2. Sources, transport and factors affecting the presence of microorganisms in the outdoor air. 3. Microorganisms in the air inside residential buildings. 4. Microorganisms in indoor air in offices and public spaces. 5. Microorganisms in the air of industrial facilities. 6. Bioaerosols within sewage treatment plants. 7. Air microorganisms as an important factor influencing human health. 8. Conclusions
</abstract>

Microorganisms As Indoor And Outdoor Air Biological Pollution

<abstract><title style='display:none'>Abstract</title>The resistance of bacteria to antimicrobial substances is one of the most serious epidemiological problems present on a global scale. The widespread use of same classes of antimicrobials in human and veterinary medicine, often without laboratory confirmation of the efficacy of active compounds used, contributes to the selection of resistant bacteria in humans and animals, and their spread in nature. The increasing resistance of pathogenic bacteria leads to serious consequences for both human and animal health. However, the resistance of commensal bacteria is equally important as they constitute a reservoir and vector of resistance determinants in the environment. Exposure to antimicrobials belonging to different classes can lead to cross-resistance and the selection of genes that may spread horizontally on mobile genetic elements. The emergence of plasmid-encoded resistance to critically important antibiotics for human medicine e.g. carbapenems or polymyxins is alarming. On the example of antibiotics classified as critically important for human medicine, it is possible to discuss almost all bacterial mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance. For effective combat against the growing antibiotic resistance of bacteria, it is necessary to know the mechanisms of resistance and the methods of their acquisition by bacteria. The aim of the paper is to review the ways that critically important antimicrobials act on bacterial cells and present complex mechanisms that are responsible for resistance to these substances as well as genes conferring for resistance.1. Introduction. 2. Antimicrobials that cause loss of cell wall integrity: β-lactams, glycopeptides and phosphonic acid derivatives. 2.1. Mechanisms of antimicrobial action. 2.2. Mechanisms of resistance. 3. Antimicrobials affecting the cell membrane: polymyxins and lipopeptides. 3.1. Mechanisms of antimicrobial action. 3.2. Mechanisms of resistance. 4. Antimicrobial substances that inhibit the synthesis of nucleic acids: quinolones and ansamycins. 4.1. Mechanisms of antimicrobial action. 4.2. Mechanisms of resistance. 5. Antimicrobial substances inhibiting protein synthesis: macrolides, ketolides, aminoglycosides, glycylcyclines, oxazolidinones. 5.1. Mechanisms of antimicrobial action. 5.2. Mechanisms of resistance. 6. Summary</abstract>

Antibiotics And Bacteria: Mechanisms Of Action And Resistance Strategies

<abstract><title style='display:none'>Abstract</title><italic>Helicobacter pylori</italic> is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium with an ability to colonise the gastric pylorus. It is estimated that more than half of the human population may be carriers of this pathogen. Unfortunately, the collected data concerning <italic>H. pylori</italic> infections is inaccurate as the symptoms occur only in 20% of people infected. The presence of the bacteria may lead to inflammation, stomach ulcers, or even cancer. In the cases of confirmed infection, the treatment usually involves a so called “triple therapy” with a proton-pump inhibitor and antibiotics. However, a decrease in the effectiveness of this therapy is observed as a result of increasing antibiotic resistance in bacteria. New solutions are being researched that could both help in the treatment of <italic>H. pylori</italic> infections and prevent the spread of the pathogen. Numerous scientific studies confirm that the use of plant-based products can be a good addition to the treatment of various infections. Phytotherapy is a science-based medical practice that uses the knowledge about active compounds naturally occurring in plants, in order to improve overall health. From existing research, it is known that the consumption of certain plant-derived products, for example olive oil and green tea, can lead to <italic>H. pylori</italic> eradication. On the other hand, licorice can be used to support the classic treatment method by increasing the eradication rate of the pathogen. Plants with anti-<italic>H. pylori</italic> properties include: cinnamon, cranberry, oregano, aloe vera and many others. The aim of this work is to review literature that is focused on a potential use of phytotherapy to support the treatment, combat, or prevent infections caused by <italic>H. pylori</italic>.</abstract>

Phytotherapy In The Prevention And Support Of Treatment Of <italic>Helicobacter Pylori</italic> Infections

<trans-abstract xml:lang="en">
<title style='display:none'>Abstract</title>
<italic>Stenotrophomonas maltophilia</italic> is an important etiological factor of infections in patients with compromised immune systems, undergoing invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, as well as in those suffering from cancer or cystic fibrosis. It poses a threat primarily to hospitalized patients. Due to its broad natural resistance and increasing acquired resistance, the therapy of infections caused by this pathogen is a challenge for modern medicine. The paper presents the current knowledge about the general characteristics, clinical significance and the most important pathogenicity factors of <italic>S. maltophilia</italic>. It also discusses therapeutic possibilities, including alternative ones, in infections caused by these microorganisms.
</trans-abstract>

<italic>Stenotrophomonas maltophilia</italic> – Clinical Significance, Treatment of Infections

<abstract>
<title style='display:none'>Abstract</title>
<italic>Neisseria gonorrhoeae</italic> (gonococcus) is a human pathogen, the aetiological agent of gonorrhoea, which is the second most common bacterial sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the world. The structure of <italic>N. gonorrhoeae</italic> cell wall is typical of Gram-negative bacteria, poses variable antigens porin B (PorB), and opacity-associated proteins (Opa proteins), lipooligosaccharide (LOS) and type IV pili (TFP) playing an essential role in pathogenesis. In addition to adhesins, gonococcus presents other virulence factors such as reducing modifiable protein (Rmp), iron transporters, membrane pumps, and IgA peptidase. The pathogen produces outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), releases peptidoglycan (PG) fragments and is well adapted to develop infection in diverse niches of the female and male reproductive tracts. The characteristic genotypic trait of <italic>N. gonorrhoeae</italic> is the state of natural competence, which allows DNA uptake from the environment. The antigenic and phase variability is essential to gonococcal defence against the human immune system. Because of the increasing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of <italic>N. gonorrhoeae</italic> and the high incidence rate of gonococcal infections, developing an antigonococcal vaccine has become an urgent need. Vaccine development difficulties are mainly due to the gonococcal ability of immune evasion, the lack of an animal model, and the limited understanding of protective immune response mechanisms.
</abstract>

Gonococci – Pathogens of Growing Importance. Part 2. Virulence Factors, Antimicrobial Resistance and Vaccine Development

<abstract>
<title style='display:none'>Abstract</title>
Skin, the largest organ in the human body, presents the largest possible area for colonization by microorganisms. The aspects of the interaction between microbiota and the host cannot be omitted during procedures in a beauty studio. Professional cosmetologists should consider their work’s impact on skin biodiversity and know the probable consequences. This review reviewed the current state of the art on skin microbiota with a focus on the connection between body area, microbiological biodiversity and the outcome of cooperation between the host and microorganisms. The role of the skin microbiota in maintaining the host’s homeostasis was also summarized.
</abstract>

Human Skin Microbiota – Essentials for Beauty Studio Professionals

<abstract>
<title style='display:none'>Abstract</title>
Genetic, endocrine and immunological disorders, anatomical defects in the reproductive tract, certain chronic diseases, toxic substances, or advanced age of the mother are most cited among the main causes of pregnancy loss at various stages. However, the cause of miscarriage or preterm labor in some cases remains unclear. Determination of the etiology about these clinical conditions may reduce the rate of reproductive failure. Similarly, the etiology of other obstetric disorders, such as preeclampsia or postpartum hemorrhage, has not been fully explained. One of the postulated and still under-researched causes of these disorders may be dysbiosis within the reproductive tract. A disturbed microbial balance is not always associated with the presence of an acute infection with clear clinical symptoms. Dysbiosis in conjunction with other pathophysiological factors may increase the risk of the mentioned clinical conditions. The aim of this paper is to show the information indicating the existence of a correlation between dysbiosis and an increase in the risk of obstetric disorders. Further analysis is also required to clarify the mechanism of the effect of dysbiosis on the disruption of metabolic and biochemical processes within the reproductive system during pregnancy.
</abstract>

Effect of Reproductive System Dysbiosis on the Course of Pregnancy

<abstract>
<title style='display:none'>Abstract</title>
The uricase enzyme yields allantoin, hydrogen peroxide, and carbon dioxide by catalyzing the oxidative opening of the purine ring in the urate pathway. This enzyme is important for biochemical diagnosis and reduces toxic urate accumulation during various diseases (hyperuricemia, gout, and bedwetting). Direct urate oxidase injection is recommended in renal complications-associated gout and to prevent chemotherapy-linked hyperuricemia disorders. Thus, uricase is a promising enzyme with diverse applications in medicine. Microbial production of uricase is featured by high growth rates, cost-effective bioprocessing, and easy optimization of the medium. Microbes produce the enzyme extracellular or intracellular. Extracellular uricase is preferred for biotechnological applications as it minimizes time, effort, and purification processes. This review provides insights into uricase-producing microbes, bacterial uric acid degradation pathways, degrading enzymes, and uricase-encoding genes.
Furthermore, aspects influencing the microorganisms’ production of the uricase enzyme, its activity, and its purification procedure are also emphasized. Cell disruption is mandatory for intercellular uricase production, which elevates production costs. Therefore, extracellular uricase-producing microbial strains should be investigated, and production factors should be optimized. Future techniques for obtaining extracellular enzymes should feature reduced time and effort, as well as a simple purification methodology. Furthermore, uricase gene-carrying recombinant probiotic microorganisms could become an effective tool for gout treatment.
</abstract>

Microbial Uricase and its Unique Potential Applications

<abstract>
<title style='display:none'>Abstract</title>
Transplantology is a branch of medicine that is developing rapidly. Transplanted whole organs or segments of organs may be recovered from either living or deceased donors. New methods of preserving transplanted solid organs, including the kidney, liver, heart, lung, and pancreas, as well as tissues, such as the cornea and skin, are being developed. Preservation fluid, which is used to perfuse and store the donated organ or tissue, should reduce biological deterioration of organs and tissue, attenuate ischemia/reperfusion-induced cell/tissue injury, and protect against damage. Lowering the storage temperature of organs significantly reduces the risk of damage. Efforts are also made to shorten the time between collecting the organ or tissue from the donor and transplanting it in the recipient. However, during transplantation, the recipient may become infected, primarily with bacteria and fungi. Infections of organ recipients occur most often due to unhygienic organ collection, improper handling and transport, and inappropriate preservation conditions, especially contamination of preservation fluid. The literature on contamination of organ preservation fluid and infections in graft recipients is very diverse, both in terms of the isolated bacterial and fungal species and the number of incidents. A large percentage of contaminating microorganisms belong to the generally non-pathogenic skin microbiota, but there are also cases of multidrug-resistant bacteria. Besides, the transplanted organs themselves may pose a danger. They may contain latent microorganisms, mainly viruses and parasites, that could be activated in a patient who has been subjected to immunosuppression to reduce the risk of organ rejection.
</abstract>

Infections Connected with Organ and Tissue Transplantation

<abstract>
<title style='display:none'>Abstract</title>
<italic>Listeria monocytogenes</italic> bacilli are a known cause of non-invasive gastrointestinal listeriosis with diarrhea, less frequently they cause invasive infections: meningitis and encephalitis, bacteremia and its complications: endocarditis, intraocular inflammation of the eye and others. The risk of human infection is mainly associated with consuming food contaminated with these bacteria. According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), infections with <italic>L. monocytogenes</italic> etiology caused the highest hospitalizations and deaths among zoonotic diseases reported in 2022. A report by the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reported 0.44 cases of listeriosis per 100,000 population in 2021, with the highest incidence rate for people over 64 years old at 1.7.
The study aimed to review and describe cases of invasive listeriosis diagnosed in adult patients in Europe between 2010 and 2023. Fifty-two cases of the disease were included, of which 19 were meningitis, 13 showed bacteremia, nine were associated with endocarditis and 10 with intraocular inflammation. One case had a clinical form of hepatitis. Only seven cases of <italic>L. monocytogenes</italic> infection were related to consuming contaminated food. Eleven cases ended in the death of patients.
Invasive listeriosis is a difficult-to-treat infection with a significant mortality rate. It requires decisive action by monitoring the prevalence and extent of food contamination with these microorganisms and preventing epidemic outbreaks. Research on listeriosis should focus on improving the clinical treatment of severe cases of infection and studying the complex mechanisms of their pathogenesis.
</abstract>

Invasive Listeriosis in Europe – A Case Review

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Advancements of Microbiology

(formerly Postępy Mikrobiologii)

 The Advancements of Microbiology (formerly Postępy Mikrobiologii) is a quarterly of the Polish Society of...

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The Advancements of Microbiology (formerly Postępy Mikrobiologii) is a quarterly of the <a...