Comparative genomics of the genus reveals divergent biosynthetic pathways that may influence colonic competition among species.

species are important denizens of the human gut microbiome that ferment complex polysaccharides to butyrate as a terminal fermentation product, which influences human physiology and serves as an energy source for colonocytes. Previous comparative genomics analyses of the genus have examined polysaccharide degradation genes. Here, we characterize the core and pangenomes of the genus with respect to central carbon and energy metabolism, as well as biosynthesis of amino acids and B vitamins using orthology-based methods, uncovering significant differences among species in their biosynthetic capacities.

Salmonella enterica subsp. Serovar Heidelberg Food Isolates Associated with a Salmonellosis Outbreak Have Enhanced Stress Tolerance Capabilities.

serovar Heidelberg is currently the 12th most common serovar of causing salmonellosis in the United States and results in twice the average incidence of blood infections caused by nontyphoidal salmonellae. Multiple outbreaks of salmonellosis caused by Heidelberg resulted from the same poultry processor, which infected 634 people during 2013 and 2014. The hospitalization and invasive illness rates were 38% and 15%, respectively.

Hydrogen peroxide and sodium hypochlorite disinfectants are more effective against and biofilms than quaternary ammonium compounds.

Background: Antimicrobial disinfectants are used as primary treatment options against pathogens on surfaces in healthcare facilities to help prevent healthcare associated infections (HAIs). On many surfaces, pathogenic microorganisms exist as biofilms and form an extracellular matrix that protects them from the antimicrobial effects of disinfectants. Disinfectants are used as all-purpose antimicrobials though very few specifically make biofilm efficacy claims.