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Bacterial strains of the genera Arthrobacter, Bacillus, Dietzia, Kocuria, and Micrococcus were isolated from oil-contaminated soils of the Balgimbaev, Dossor, and Zaburunye oil fields in Kazakhstan. They were selected from 1376 isolated strains based on their unique ability to use crude oil and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) as sole source of carbon and energy in growth experiments. The isolated strains degraded a wide range of aliphatic and aromatic components from crude oil to generate a total of 170 acid metabolites. Eight metabolites were detected during the degradation of anthracene and of phenanthrene, two of which led to the description of a new degradation pathway. The selected bacterial strains Arthrobacter bussei/agilis SBUG 2290, Bacillus atrophaeus SBUG 2291, Bacillus subtilis SBUG 2285, Dietzia kunjamensis SBUG 2289, Kocuria rosea SBUG 2287, Kocuria polaris SBUG 2288, and Micrococcus luteus SBUG 2286 promoted the growth of barley shoots and roots in oil-contaminated soil, demonstrating the enormous potential of isolatable and cultivable soil bacteria in soil remediation. Key points: • Special powerful bacterial strains as potential crude oil and PAH degraders. • Growth on crude oil or PAHs as sole source of carbon and energy. • Bacterial support of barley growth as resource for soil remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial strains of the genera Arthrobacter, Bacillus, Dietzia, Kocuria, and Micrococcus were isolated from oil-contaminated soils of the Balgimbaev, Dossor, and Zaburunye oil fields in Kazakhstan. They were selected from 1376 isolated strains based on their unique ability to use crude oil and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) as sole source of carbon and energy in growth experiments. The isolated strains degraded a wide range of aliphatic and aromatic components from crude oil to generate a total of 170 acid metabolites. Eight metabolites were detected during the degradation of anthracene and of phenanthrene, two of which led to the description of a new degradation pathway. The selected bacterial strains Arthrobacter bussei/agilis SBUG 2290, Bacillus atrophaeus SBUG 2291, Bacillus subtilis SBUG 2285, Dietzia kunjamensis SBUG 2289, Kocuria rosea SBUG 2287, Kocuria polaris SBUG 2288, and Micrococcus luteus SBUG 2286 promoted the growth of barley shoots and roots in oil-contaminated soil, demonstrating the enormous potential of isolatable and cultivable soil bacteria in soil remediation. Key points: • Special powerful bacterial strains as potential crude oil and PAH degraders. • Growth on crude oil or PAHs as sole source of carbon and energy. • Bacterial support of barley growth as resource for soil remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The white poplar tree has great potential in greening cities and protecting the environment from pollution. However, planting poplars on contaminated soils can lead to suppression of poplar growth. To mitigate this problem, endophytes that stimulate plant growth and are able to degrade pollutants can be used. We studied the genomes of 14 different bacteria that live inside the roots of the white poplar tree and found that these bacteria have genes that help the tree grow and resist soil pollution. They contain genes that help the tree utilize important nutrients, produce beneficial chemicals, and get rid of harmful substances. The bacteria we studied are new strains of known bacterial species. The most promising are strains from the genera Pseudomonas and Kocuria. We believe that these endophytic bacteria can be used together with white poplar to better protect the environment. The white poplar (Populus alba L.) has good potential for a green economy and phytoremediation. Bioaugmentation using endophytic bacteria can be considered as a safe strategy to increase poplar productivity and its resistance to toxic urban conditions. The aim of our work was to find the most promising strains of bacterial endophytes to enhance the growth of white poplar in unfavorable environmental conditions. To this end, for the first time, we performed whole-genome sequencing of 14 bacterial strains isolated from the tissues of the roots of white poplar in different geographical locations. We then performed a bioinformatics search to identify genes that may be useful for poplar growth and resistance to environmental pollutants and pathogens. Almost all endophytic bacteria obtained from white poplar roots are new strains of known species belonging to the genera Bacillus, Corynebacterium, Kocuria, Micrococcus, Peribacillus, Pseudomonas, and Staphylococcus. The genomes of the strains contain genes involved in the enhanced metabolism of nitrogen, phosphorus, and metals, the synthesis of valuable secondary metabolites, and the detoxification of heavy metals and organic pollutants. All the strains are able to grow on media without nitrogen sources, which indicates their ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen. It is concluded that the strains belonging to the genus Pseudomonas and bacteria of the species Kocuria rosea have the best poplar growth-stimulating and bioaugmentation potential, and the roots of white poplar are a valuable source for isolation of endophytic bacteria for possible application in ecobiotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although sake yeast mainly produces the taste of sake, sake brewery-inhabiting (kuratsuki) bacteria affect the taste of sake. Thus, kuratsuki bacteria may alter the metabolism of sake yeast through interactions between kuratsuki bacteria and sake yeast. This study aimed to confirm the effects of the combination of kuratsuki Kocuria TGY1127_2 and different sake yeast strains, AK25, K901, and K1801 on the taste of sake. Although the Brix and acidity during sake production using AK25 differed between sake with and without kuratsuki Kocuria, those using K901 and K1801 did not differ. Thus, sake yeast AK25 interacted with kuratsuki Kocuria and changed its characteristics of ethanol fermentation. In addition, the taste intensity changes, measured with a taste sensor TS-5000Z, showed that the effects of adding kuratsuki Kocuria varied among different sake yeasts. Thus, each sake yeast strain interacted with the kuratsuki bacterium and produced different metabolites, resulting in a change in the taste of sake. The findings of this study can lead to the brewing of sake using different types of kuratsuki bacteria which can affect the taste of sake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the first case report of prosthetic joint infection (PJI) caused by Kocuria rhizophila. Our patient is a 74-year-old male who underwent primary total hip replacement for right hip pain. His recovery was uneventful until 6 weeks postoperatively when he presented to his routine outpatient appointment with significant erythema, swelling, and tenderness over his right hip wound. Based on the acuity of his symptoms and the radiological findings, it was determined that the patient should undergo debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR procedure). A consensus decision was also made at our PJI multidisciplinary meeting to treat him with 12 weeks of IV antibiotics. After completing this 12 weeks course of IV Vancomycin, his inflammatory markers returned to normal limits. At 6 months follow-up, our patient was mobilizing independently without any signs of infection recurrence. His radiographs showed the implant was in a satisfactory position with no evidence of loosening. This case adds to an emerging body of literature describing invasive infections associated with Kocuria species. We have demonstrated the effectiveness of managing this condition with debridement, implant retention, and IV Vancomycin therapy for 12 weeks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs) are becoming valuable due to their novel applications. The green synthesis of TiO2 NPs is more popular as a flexible and eco-friendly method compared to traditional chemical synthesis methods. TiO2 NPs are the most commonly used semiconductor in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Results: The biogenic TiO2 NPs were produced extracellularly by the marine halophilic bacterium Halomonas sp. RAM2. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the biosynthesis process, resulting in a starting TiO2 concentration of 0.031 M and a pH of 5 for 92 min (⁓15 nm). TiO2 NPs were well-characterized after the calcination process at different temperatures of 500, 600, 700 and 800 °C. Anatase TiO2 NPs (calcined at 500 °C) with a smaller surface area and a wider bandgap were nominated for use in natural dye-sensitized solar cells (NDSSCs). The natural dye used as a photosensitizer is a mixture of three carotenoids extracted from the marine bacterium Kocuria sp. RAM1. NDSSCs were evaluated under standard illumination. After optimization of the counter electrode, NDSSCBio(10) (10 layers) demonstrated the highest photoelectric conversion efficiency (η) of 0.44%, which was almost as good as NDSSCP25 (0.55%). Conclusion: The obtained results confirmed the successful green synthesis of TiO2 NPs and suggested a novel use in combination with bacterial carotenoids in DSSC fabrication, which represents an initial step for further efficiency enhancement studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Koji is made using steamed rice and a koji mold, which plays an essential role in sake brewing. We challenge to build a new sake brewing method using the kuratsuki bacteria that have inhabited each sake brewery. In this paper, effects of the kuratsuki Kocuria strain TGY1127_2 were estimated on sake brewing in different koji conditions. Sake was produced by incubation of a mixture solution of koji , water, and sake yeast (strain K1401) with and without the kuratsuki Kocuria TGY1127_2. The effects of the kuratsuki Kocuria on the taste of the sake differed among different koji. The kuratsuki Kocuria led to an increase in ethanol concentration. Additionally, the sugar content (Brix) and acidity of the sake increased in proportion to the amount of koji. These results strongly suggest that the kuratsuki Kocuria does not adversely affect the fermentation activity of the sake yeast. Thus, the kuratsuki Kocuria had different effects on the taste of sake among different koji but the fermentation activity of the sake yeast was maintained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kocuria spp., are frequently documented members of the human microbiota and were formerly thought to be opportunistic bacteria, initiating infection only in immunocompromised patients. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Kocuria species in samples from iraqi pediatric patients, in addition to their sensitivity pattern. Bacterial identification was performed using a VITEK 2 device, and the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method was used to determine antibiotic susceptibility. Of 261 positive cultures, we found Kocuria isolates from 7 cases (2.68%). the mean age of the patients was 5.47 years, ranging from 4 months to 10 years; there were 3 males and 4 females. All patients had either urinary tract disease or symptomatic bacteremia. Vitek-2 identification using a gram-positive (GP) card revealed the presence of Kocuria kristinae in five cases, K. rhizophila in one case, and K. rosea in one case. Susceptibility of the Kocuria species isolates to amikacin, gentamicin and ceftazidime were demonstrated 100% resistance. in conclusion, Kocuria species, which are associated with serious clinical manifestations are an emerging health issue and further attention should be taken for appropriate management of antibiotic treatment as they are intrinsically multi-drug resistant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel, mustard yellow-pigmented aerobic bacterial strain designated AR01T was isolated from hypocotyl tissue of a sandalwood seedling from Bangalore, India. The 16S rRNA gene of strain AR01T had the highest 98.97% sequence similarity with Rothia halotolerans YIM 90716T (KCTC 19172) followed by Rothia kristinae PM 129T (NBRC 15354T) (97.31%) and Rothia koreensis P31T (JCM 15915) (97.11%), respectively. The strain AR01T was coccoid-shaped, non-motile, non-spore forming, oxidase negative and catalase positive. The strain AR01T has a genome size of 3.31 Mb containing 2993 protein-coding genes including 48 tRNA and 10 rRNAs spread across 84 contigs. The genomic DNA G + C content was 71.77 mol%. The calculated dDDH was 31.10% and the OrthoANI value was 85.27% when compared with its closest related type strain Rothia halotolerans YIM 90716T. The predominant cellular fatty acids were C16:0 iso, C15:0 anteiso and C17:0 anteiso. The strain AR01T contains major polar lipids including diphosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylglycerol. The distinct physiological, biochemical characteristics and genotypic relatedness indicated that AR01T represents a novel species of the genus Rothia, for which the name Rothia santali sp. nov. (Type strain AR01T = MCC 4800T = JCM 35593T) is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To expand the knowledge regarding the clinical presentation of Kocuria endophthalmitis. We included six cases of Kocuria endophthalmitis between January 2018 and December 2020. From all cases, we collected general demographic data, relevant medical, ophthalmological history, microbiological and antibiotic sensitivity results. All cases had a minimum follow-up of 9 months. All cases were treated with intravitreal moxifloxacin and dexamethasone and pars plana vitrectomy. Undiluted vitreous, corneal, conjunctival, and aqueous samples were cultured and analyzed with the Vitek 2 system. The prevalence of Kocuria endophthalmitis was 6%. (95%CI: 2.26%-12.73%). The mean age at diagnosis was 60.5 ± 15.5 years. All patients had poor visual acuity, severe pain, and severe conjunctival hyperemia at diagnosis. Only one case had a significant improvement in visual acuity at the end of the follow-up. Kocuria spp are an emerging cause of endophthalmitis and should be considered as part of the differential diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kocuria is an anaerobic, Gram-positive bacterium, which has been rarely reported to cause endophthalmitis following cataract surgery, intravitreal injections, penetrating ocular trauma, and also secondary to endogenous sources. Visual prognosis is often guarded, with no previous cases reporting a final visual acuity better than 20/60. We describe a young female patient who developed culture-proven Kocuria kristinae endophthalmitis associated with a traumatic scleral rupture. Visual acuity at 2 months of follow-up improved from light perception to 20/50 after treatment with intravitreal antimicrobial therapy and pars plana vitrectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increased usage of nitrate fertilizers, the removal of their stable ionic and water-soluble end products is a challenge for human health. Several physicochemical methods have been examined for nitrate removal of water, but biological treatments are mostly preferred due to a higher efficiency and lower cost. To remove nitrogen from water, we investigated the potential of nitrate-reducing halophilic and halotolerant bacteria. A total of 50 strains from different saline and hypersaline environments of Iran, including the Incheboron wetland, Aran-Bidgol salt-lake, and Urmia endorheic salt-lake, were screened for nitrate reductase production. Among investigated bacteria, 60% and 19% of strains obtained from Urmia lake, and Incheboron wetland produced nitrate reductases, respectively. The nitrate reductase coding genes narG, and napA were analyzed in all strains with confirmed nitrate-reducing capacity. The napA gene was successfully amplified from a gram-negative halophilic strain, and the narG gene was detected in ten halophilic strains. Among nitrate-reducing isolates with the narG gene expression, the Kocuria rosea strain R3A34 showed the highest nitrate reductase production level. This strain was selected to optimize for its denitrifying activity. Results showed that 32°C, pH 7.0, NaCl 8% (w/v), and mannitol (as a carbon source) provide the optimal environmental conditions for the efficient production of nitrate reductase by the Kocuria rosea strain R3A34. As these are compatible with wastewaters conditions, this bacterium can be a proper candidate for bioremediation of wastewaters from nitrate pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to assess the effect of five endophytic bacteria on the growth promotion of tomato plants under salt stress conditions. Twenty-five endophytic bacteria were isolated from roots of the native halophyte Stipa tenacissima L. collected from Djelfa (Algeria) and were evaluated for their halotolerant potential. Seven strong halotolerant isolates were selected and characterized for in vitro Plant Growth Promotion (PGP) including the ACC-deaminase activity, inorganic phosphate solubilization and the production of indole-3-acetic acid and siderophores. Five strains showing high PGP traits were investigated for the mitigation of salt stress and PGP of tomato (Solanum esculentum L. cv. Aïcha). Screening of the salt-tolerant isolates for PGP traits in saline condition (75 mM NaCl) under Petri-dishes experiment of tomato revealed that three isolates ST09, ST18 and ST19 improved the growth of tomato seedlings by highlighting germination rate, shoot and root lengths and biomass. Under greenhouse conditions at 0 and 75 mM NaCl, inoculation of strains ST09, ST18 and ST19 in tomato seedlings produced an increase in germination (69.23%, 73.07% and 73.07%). The isolate ST19 showed an increase of more than 90% in root elongation and 17.4% increase in biomass when compared to uninoculated tomato seedlings at 75 mM NaCl stress. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene showed that the strain ST19 belongs to the genus Kocuria , and is closely related to Kocuria arsenatis |CM1E1|KM874399T (99.29% similarity). Thus, we conclude that the inoculation of tomato plants with the strain ST19 showed its efficiency to mitigate salt stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kocuria isolates collected from the sake brewing process have inhabited the Narimasa Sake Brewery in Toyama, Japan. To investigate the effect of these actinobacterial isolates on the growth and metabolism of sake yeast, co-cultivation of sake yeast and Kocuria isolates was performed in a medium containing tryptone, glucose and yeast extract (TGY), and a solution containing koji (steamed rice covered with Aspergillus oryzae) and glucose. In the TGY medium, the ethanol concentration and the number of living cells of each microorganism were measured. In the koji solution, the concentrations of ethanol and organic acids (citric acid, lactic acid and succinic acid) were measured. The results showed that in TGY media, the growth of each Kocuria isolate in the co-culture of the two Kocuria isolates was similar to that in each monoculture. However, the growth of both Kocuria isolates was inhibited in the co-cultures of sake yeast and Kocuria isolates. On the other hand, the growth and ethanol productivity of sake yeast did not differ between its monoculture and co-cultures with Kocuria isolates. In the koji solution, Kocuria isolates TGY1120_3 and TGY1127_2 affected the concentrations of ethanol and lactic acid, respectively. Thus, Kocuria isolates affected the microbial metabolism, but the effects were not identical between the two isolates. This strongly suggests that bacteria inhabiting a sake brewery may influence the flavor and taste of sake products of the brewery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The formation of bacterial biofilms by opportunistic microorganisms on the surfaces of the implants is the leading etiopathogenetic factor of peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis. The purpose of this research was to study the adhesive and biofilm-forming properties of clinical strains of K. kristinae isolated from patients with peri-implant mucositis. Methods: 18 clinical strains of K. kristinae isolated from the patients were the object of the study. The adhesion of the microorganisms was determined by using formalized human red blood cells of the blood group O (1) Rh+ by the G. Brilis technique. The study of biofilm-forming properties of clinical isolates of K. kristinae was performed by using the spectrophotometric technique by G.D. Christensen (MtP microtiter plate test). Results: The representatives of genus Kocuria were isolated in 70% of patients. Total proportion of clinical isolates of Kocuria spp. among all isolated microorganisms reached 18.3%. The representatives of the species K. kristinae showed a high adhesion to red blood cells and high ability to form biofilms. The r-Pearson coefficient (+0.87) between adhesion and the ability to form biofilms by K. kristinae strains pointed out a direct correlation. Conclusions: Obviously, Kocuria spp. take part in peri-implant mucositis development. It is proved by their presence on the mucous membrane of peri-implant area of patients with complications after dental implant placement. The representatives of the species K. kristinae showed a high adhesion and high biofilmformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction : The inevitable rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria is a global health problem. These pathogens erode the utility of available antibiotics. Staphylococcus aureus is one of the major causes of community-acquired infections. The aim of work was to evaluate the marine actinomycetes for production of the antibacterial agent against pathogens. Methods : Halophilic actinomycetes were isolated, characterized and screened for production of antibacterial agent against pathogenic bacteria. The antibacterial compounds were extracted by solvent extraction and separated by TLC based bioautography. Antibacterial compound was further purified by flash chromatography followed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) techniques. The active fraction was characterized by spectroscopy techniques. The minimum inhibitory concentration of antibiotic was determined against pathogens. Results : A new halophilic actinomycetes strain rsk4 was isolated from marine water. It was designated as Kocuria sp. based on the physiological, biochemical and 16S rDNA sequencebased characters. It was able to produce broad-spectrum antibacterial compound and exhibited significant inhibitory activities against antibiotic-resistant S. aureus. The antibacterial compound was secreted optimally at 5% NaCl and neutral pH in the starch casein medium during stationary phase. The crude ethyl acetate extract was separated by chloroform-methanol, 24:1, v/v having Rf value 0.45. Bioassay of HPLC fractions confirms the presence of antibiotics picks at retention time: 3.24 minutes. The UV-Visible and mass spectra of the compound revealed that the active compound was different from other known antibiotics. The lowest minimum inhibitory concentration was recorded against S. aureus (30 µg/mL). Conclusion : The result suggests that a broad-spectrum antibacterial compound obtained from halophilic actinomycetes is effective against pathogenic bacteria. This compound may be a good alternative treatment against antibiotic-resistant pathogen S. aureus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims at biosynthesizing, characterizing and evaluating the biogenic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as antimicrobial and antibiofilm against Kocuria rosea and Kocuria rhizophila. Cellfree supernatant of Proteus mirabilis culture was used for biosynthesizing AgNPs, which confirmed by visualizing color change and X-ray diffraction. Transmission electron microscopy showed the formation of AgNPs in the range of 5-40 nm. ART-FTIR spectra provided evidence for presence of proteins as possible biomolecules responsible for stability of AgNPs and act as capping agent. AgNPs had ability to inhibit growth of K. rosea and K. rhizophila. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of AgNPs against both strains was 25 μg/mL. Antiadhesive effect of AgNPs was verified at sub-MIC dose (12.5 μg/mL). The AgNPs concentrations up to 100 μg/mL were not effective for complete removing the already established biofilms with maximum removing percentage of 30.5-34.9%. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated an unprecedented green process for biosynthesizing stable spherical-shaped AgNPs. Early control is suggested by preventing biofilm formation using low AgNPs concentration (12.5 μg/mL) as a potential ingredient for formulating effective chemical sanitizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new halophilic actinomycetes strain wascharacterized and on the basis of physiological and 16S rDNA sequence, it was designated as Kocuria sp. strain rsk4. It was able to produce antibacterial metabolites and shows broad spectrum antibacterial activity against several gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Rsk4 showed highest antagonistic effect against multi drug resistant bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. Cultural and nutritional conditions of strain have been optimized under shake-flask conditions for the efficient production of antibacterial metabolites. Among the various factors, starch casein medium, 30ºC temperature, neutral pH, 5% salinity, 7 days incubation period and 180 rpm agitation was found to be optimal for antibacterial metabolite production. 1% starch, yeast extract, casein and magnesium were found to be best carbon source, nitrogen sources and mineral respectively for improved antibacterial activity. Among various combinations of nitrogen source, yeast extract and casein in equal ratio showed enhanced antibacterial activity. This is the first report on the optimization of antibacterial metabolites by Kocuria sp. The study suggests that the Kocuria sp. could scale up by traditional method for production of antibacterial metabolites effective against multiple drug resistant S. aureus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of native strains of microorganisms from soils is an excellent option for bioremediation. To our knowledge, until now there has been no other group working on the isolation of Actinobacteria from contaminated soils in Mexico. In this study, samples of soils close to areas with oil activity in the State of Veracruz, Mexico, were inoculated for the isolation of Actinobacteria. The strains isolated were characterized morphologically, and the concentrations of NaCl and pH were determined for optimal growth. Strain selection was performed by the detection of a phylogenetic marker for Actinobacteria located at the 23S rRNA gene, followed by species identification by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene. Several haloalkalitolerant Actinobacteria were isolated and identified as: Kocuria rosea, K. palustris, Microbacterium testaceum, Nocardia farcinica and Cellulomonas denverensis. Except for C. denverensis, the biomass of all strains increased in the presence of anthracene. The strains capacity to metabolize anthracene (at 48 h), determined by fluorescence emission, was in the range of 46-54%. During this time, dihydroxy aromatic compounds formed, characterized by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy bands of 1205 cm-1 and 1217 cm-1. Those Actinobacteria are potentially useful for the bioremediation of saline and alkaline environments contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microorganisms being a part of normal flora of skin and mucous membranes of humans for a long time were believed to be non-pathogenic commensals. Recently however, an increasing number of infections caused by the Micrococcaceae family, including Kocuria kristinae, has been observed. In immunocompetent patients the risk of infection is rather low. The probability of infection significantly increases in immunocompromised patients of hematological or oncological units and in premature infants with very low birth weight. Preterm neonates are patients with extremely high risk of infections caused by the microbiota of the skin. It results from the immaturity of immune system and internal organs, the use of invasive treatment procedures. The aim of this work was to highlight the increasing role of opportunistic pathogens of Micrococcaceae in bacterial blood infections. We present also a case of bacteriemia caused by Kocuria kristinae in a child born preterm, that was effectively treated with antibiotics and via catheter removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agar Listeria according to Ottaviani and Agosti (ALOA) is the mandatory medium used for the detection and enumeration of Listeria monocytogenes in foods according to the official International Organization for Standardization (ISO) methods. On ALOA, Listeria spp. appear as bluish-green colonies due to the production of β - d -glucosidase, an enzyme that cleaves 5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl- β - d -glucopyranoside, a chromogenic substrate included in the formulation of the medium. The present work reports on bacterial isolates ( n = 64) from ready-to-eat soft cheeses, which are able to grow on ALOA, forming bluish-green colonies and therefore phenotypically resemble Listeria spp. All isolates were also capable of growing on the selective media PALCAM and RAPID L'mono™. The isolates were characterised with biochemical tests including those specified in the ISO standards for the confirmation of Listeria spp. and identified via partial sequencing of their 16S rRNA gene. According to sequencing results the isolates represented 12 different bacterial species or species-groups belonging to seven different genera: Bacillus spp. ( B. circulans , B. clausii , B. licheniformis and B. oleronius ), Cellulosimicrobium spp. ( C . funkei ), Enterococcus spp. ( E. faecalis , E. faecium/durans ), Kocuria spp. ( K. kristinae ), Marinilactibacillus spp. ( M. psychrotolerans ), Rothia spp. ( R. terrae ) and Staphylococcus spp. ( S. sciuri and S. saprophyticus subsp. saprophyticus / xylosus ). Cellulosimicrobium spp. have never been previously isolated from foods. These results significantly extend the list of bacteria previously known as capable of growing on ALOA as bluish-green colonies and suggest that there may be room for further improvement in the medium's inhibitory properties towards non- Listeria spp., Gram-positive bacteria present in foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a rare affection in the pediatric population. It usually occurs when concurrent conditions are present, such as nephrotic syndrome, peritoneal dialysis or liver disease. We report a case of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis due to Kocuria marina in a 2-year-old child with no underlying risk factor. This is both the first description of an infection caused by this rare pathogen in a child and the first reported case of primary peritonitis caused by K. marina in a patient with no predisposing condition. Case description A 2 year-old boy presented to the Pediatric Emergency Department with clinical signs of peritonitis. Laparoscopic surgical exploration confirmed purulent, generalized peritonitis without perforation. Culture of the peritoneal fluid revealed the presence of Kocuria marina, a Gram-positive coccoid environmental bacteria. After peritoneal lavage and appropriate antibiotic treatment, the patient improved and was discharged without sequel. Conclusion The present report illustrates the first clinical presentation of Kocuria marina SBP in a child with no underlying risk factor. Although never previously described in healthy patients, this pathogen may therefore be considered as a possible cause of SBP in a child. This unusual finding extends the spectrum of infectious diseases caused by Kocuria marina beyond the scope of the previously described susceptible population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] A new Kocuria rosea BS-1 produced a polysaccharide designated as Kocuran. [•] It downregulated the release of proinflammatory cytokines in RAW 264.7 macrophages. [•] Kocuran inhibited the proliferation of PHA-stimulated human PBMC. [•] Kocuran inhibited complement mediated hemolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A new isolate, Kocuria sp. ASB 107 from the Ab-e-Siah mineral radioactive spring (Ramsar, Mazandaran Province, Iran) was characterized on the basis of morphological and biochemical characteristics plus 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The isolate is most closely related to Kocuria rosea DSM 20447T (99.7% sequence similarity) and Kocuria polaris DSM 14382T (99.5%). This strain has some resistance to various genotoxic stresses, such as ionizing radiation, ultraviolet (256 nm- UV) and corona discharge. The 90% lethal doses (D 10) for gamma-rays and 256 nm-UV are 2 kGy and 400 J m−2, respectively, in definite cell concentration. Moreover, the resistance for a definite energy of corona discharge is 10 s, about 10 times greater than that of Escherichia coli. The growth temperature of the strain ASB 107 is 0–37 °C in TSB (tryptic soy broth). This study is the first report on the psychrotrophic radio-resistant bacteria belonging to the Kocuria genus isolated from Ab-e-Siah spring. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Probiotic Kocuria SM1, which was part of the allochthonous gut microbiota of rainbow trout, was administered to rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fingerlings as dietary supplement at ∼108 cells g−1 for two weeks. The fish were challenged with Vibrio anguillarum and innate immunity determined over the following 5 weeks. The probiotic-fed fish survived (mortalities = 10–28%; P < 0.05) better than the controls (mortalities = 73–92%) for 5 weeks after stopping administration of Kocuria SM1, although the relative percent survival (RPS) declined steadily from 87 to 36% by the end of the experiment. A significant (P < 0.05) effect on the immune parameters was observed in fish within 3 weeks after stopping administration of Kocuria SM1 in comparison with the controls, i.e. enhancement of the respiratory burst (OD550nm) from 0.051 ± 0.014 to 0.067 ± 0.009, lysozyme 605 ± 185 units ml−1 to 872 ± 114 units ml−1, total protein 19.8 ± 2.0 mg ml−1 to 23.8 ± 0.8 mg ml−1 at 2 weeks, and leukocrit 2.9 ± 1.8% to 5.1 ± 1.1%, peroxidase (OD550nm) 0.23 ± 0.02 to 0.37 ± 0.11 and bacterial killing activities (percentage of surviving bacteria = 82 ± 12% to 57 ± 4%) at 3 weeks. Generally, the levels reduced progressively towards the end of experiment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Starter cultures that initiate rapid acidification of the raw meat batter and that lead to a desirable sensory quality of the end-product are used for the production of fermented sausages. Recently, the use of new, functional starter cultures with an industrially or nutritionally important functionality is being explored. Functional starter cultures offer an additional functionality compared to classical starter cultures and represent a way of improving and optimising the sausage fermentation process and achieving tastier, safer, and healthier products. Examples include microorganisms that generate aroma compounds, health-promoting molecules, bacteriocins or other antimicrobials, contribute to cured meat colour, possess probiotic qualities, or lack negative properties such as the production of biogenic amines and toxic compounds. The vast quantity of artisan fermented sausages from different origins represents a treasure chest of biodiversity that can be exploited to create such functional starter cultures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We report the first case of catheter-related bacteremia caused by Kocuria salsicia in a patient with short bowel syndrome. The pathogen was initially identified as Kocuria varians by a Vitek 2-based assessment, but its 16S rRNA gene sequence showed 100% similarity to K. salsicia . The patient was successfully treated with vancomycin and removal of the catheter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The behaviour of the constitutive biota in eighty four samples belonging to two different types of Spanish dry-cured sausages during the ripening process in a pilot-scale chamber was investigated. Samples were analyzed in three stages during production: fresh product, first drying stage and finished product. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and Coagulase-negative cocci (CNC) were identified by the API system. In general, evolution of LAB and CNC during the ripening process of Spanish dry-cured sausages increased during the first days after which numbers of these organisms remained stable. Pediococcus pentosaceus and Staphylococcus xylosus, were the dominant species. Lactobacillus plantarum, Staphylococcus saprophyticus Staphylococcus simulans and Kocuria varians were also present. The results obtained show that the ripening process in a pilot-scale chamber under controlled conditions contributes to a more homogeneous behaviour of the constitutive biota, in comparison with commercial production standards. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aim: To describe the clinical presentations and management outcomes of Kocuria endophthalmitis and discuss diagnostic dilemmasDesign: Retrospective interventional comparative case seriesIntervention: Eight unilateral cases with culture-proven Kocuria endophthalmitis from January 2013 to December 2017 underwent vitrectomy/vitreous biopsy and intravitreal antibiotic with or without additional procedures. The undiluted vitreous was subjected to microbiologic evaluation.Main outcome measures: The mean age at presentation, etiology, number of interventions, interval between inciting event and presentation, type of intravitreal antibiotic used, and anatomic and functional outcomes were reported. A favorable anatomic outcome was defined as preservation of the globe, absence of hypotony, attached retina, and absence of active inflammation at the last visit.Results: In the current series, there were five males and three females. The mean age at presentation was 31 ± 17.44 years (median 30 years). The inciting event was open globe injury in five cases and one case each following cataract surgery, microbial keratitis, and endogenous cause. Visual acuity was ≥ 20/400 in one case at presentation and ≥ 20/400 in three cases at the last visit. The species identified by Vitek 2, included Kocuria kristinae in three, K. rosea in four and K. varians in one. Follow-up period was 8.25 ± 8.24 months (median 6.5). Six cases (75%) had complete resolution of infection and inflammation at the last visit. Anatomic success was achieved in 75%.Conclusions: Kocuria is a relatively rare cause of endophthalmitis often misdiagnosed as Staphylococcal endophthalmitis. Clinical presentation can be variable but favorable antibiotic susceptibility and appropriate timely management can result in acceptable visual and anatomic outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]