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The article focuses on the antibacterial activity of isopropanolic extracts from selected Indian spices against Escherichia coli, the primary pathogen responsible for urinary tract infections (UTIs). It evaluates the antimicrobial properties of turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon, fennel, clove, and tamarind, providing an alternative to conventional antibiotics.

This study investigated variability among four indicators for quantifying antimicrobial use in intensive care units (ICUs): defined daily doses (DDD), prescribed daily doses (PDD), duration of therapy (DOT), and length of therapy (LOT) and recommended the most clinically relevant approach. Retrospective data from patients who had received at least one antimicrobial was analyzed. Patients whose records were incomplete or expired were excluded. Duration of therapy (24433/1000 PDs) and LOTs (12832/1000 PDs) underestimated the overall consumption of antimicrobials compared with DDD of 28391/1000 PDs. Whereas PDD (46699/1000 PDs) overestimated it. Comparison analysis detected % differences of 13.94, 23.92, and 54.80% between DDD and DOT, DDD and PDD, and DDD and LOT, indicators respectively. Linear regression revealed stronger (r² = 0.86), moderate (r² = 0.50), and moderate (r² =0.60) correlation between DDD and DOT, DDD and PDD and DDD and LOT indicators respectively. According to findings, combining DOT and DDD is a more practical method to quantify antimicrobial consumption in hospital ICUs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The antimicrobial activity and physical properties of Vinyl Siloxane Ether (VSE) impression material, such as dimensional stability, flow, and setting time, play a crucial role in the success of fixed prosthodontics. During impression making, the impression material is exposed to infected blood and saliva, which are potential sources of cross-contamination. Cross-contamination can be decreased or minimised when antimicrobial agents are added to the impression material. The efficacy of nanoparticles like silver, titanium, zinc oxide, and chitosan as antimicrobial agents is continuously researched in dentistry. These particles have the benefit of being small and possessing effective antibacterial characteristics due to their vast surface area, which creates an effective interaction with microbes. Aim: To evaluate and compare the antimicrobial activity and physical properties of VSE impression material incorporated with various concentrations (0.0, 1.0, and 2.5 wt.%) of zinc oxide and chitosan nanoparticles. Materials and Methods: This is an in-vitro study conducted in the Department of Prosthodontics at KIMS Dental College and Hospital, Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India. Ethical Review Board for clinical trials (Material protocol no. 020/ KIMS DENTAL/2022). The study was conducted in the month of June and July of 2022 year. A total of 252 samples were fabricated with VSE impression material and divided into two groups for antimicrobial activity (Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and the fungus Candida albicans) and physical properties (dimensional stability, flow, setting time) with 126 samples in each group, respectively. The sample size was estimated using G Power One software with a power of 91% and an alpha error of 5%. Antimicrobial activity was determined using the disk diffusion method, dimensional stability was determined with a stereomicroscope, setting time with a Gillmore apparatus, and flow with a vernier caliper. Data were subjected to one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) (p-value <0.05), T tests, and Tukey post-hoc tests, respectively. A p-value of ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Significant changes were noted against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria when VSE was incorporated with 2.5% zinc oxide nanoparticles (p-value=0.010). The highest setting time was found for 2.5% chitosan, and the lowest setting time was for 2.5% zinc oxide (p-value <0.001). Decreased flow was observed with 2.5% chitosan, whereas increased flow was observed with 1% and 2.5% of zinc oxide nanoparticles (p-value=0.016). Enhanced dimensional stability was seen when the impression material was incorporated with 1% and 2.5% of ZnO nanoparticles (p-value <0.001). Conclusion: Based on this in-vitro study, zinc oxide and chitosan nanoparticles can be incorporated into VSE impression material as antimicrobial agents without adversely affecting their properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melaleuca polandii, commonly known as "Gold-tipped Bottlebrush", is widely grown in Indian gardens and parks as an ornamental plant. In the present study, the chemical composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities of M. polandii leaf essential oil (MPLEO) have been investigated. GC-MS analysis of MPLEO isolated from plants grown along the coastal plains of Eastern India revealed the presence of 50 constituents with α-pinene (46.17%), 3Z-hexenyl acetate (10.10 %), α-terpineol (5.43%), limonene (3.63%) and ρ-cymene (2.44 %) as the major constituents. MPLEO exhibited moderate antioxidant capacity in DPPH, ABTS and Reducing ability assays with IC50 values of 7.94 ± 0.34 μg/mL, 5.71 ± 0.21 μg/mL and EC50 7.09 ± 0.35 μg/mL, respectively. Of the 5 bacterial strains tested, the EO exhibited highest sensitivity against Bacillus subtilis with the ZOI of 12.66 ± 0.57 mm and strong antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus saprophyticus with MIC value of 6.25 μg/mL. MPLEO exhibited significant cytotoxic effects against Human alveolar lung adenocarcinoma (A549), Human hepato-cellular carcinoma (HepG2), Human cervix adenocarcinoma (HeLa) and normal Human Embryonic Kidney cell (HEK-293) as evaluated through MTT assay with IC50 values of 9.5 ± 0.38 μg/mL, 22.73 ± 0.95 μg/mL, 20.41 ± 0.82 μg/mL and 237.68 ± 9.26 μg/mL, respectively. The findings of the present study demonstrated that MPLEO could be considered as a potential bioresource having applications in pharmaceutical industries as an antibacterial and antiproliferative agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Pomegranate fruit contains biologically active compounds that provide anti-inflammatory properties. Byproducts of pomegranate and punicalagins inhibit the growth of pathogens while enhancing the growth of beneficial bacteria. The beneficial effects of phenolic compounds are exhibited in scavenging free radicals. Aim: To evaluate the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity of Pomegranate Peel Extract (PPE). Materials and Methods: The present in-vitro study was designed and carried out at the Nanobiomedicine Laboratort, Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, from June 2021 to August 2021. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using the Egg Albumin Denaturation assay (EA) and Bovine Serum Albumin Denaturation assay (BSA). The measurement of antioxidant activity was conducted using the 2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, Hydrogen peroxide radical scavenging (H2O2) assay, and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method. The microorganisms used to evaluate the antimicrobial effect of PPE were S. mutans, S.aureus, E.faecalis, and C.albicans. Results were analysed using independent t-tests, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's Honestly Significant Difference (HSD). Results: Anti-inflammatory activity was observed with high concentrations of 40 and 50 µL in EA (70.06%±0.15, 78.08%±0.21) and BSA (75.50%±3.90, 80.82%±3.38) assays. Pronounced antioxidant activity of PPE was seen with higher concentrations of 40 and 50 µL in DPPH (88.17%±0.69, 92.50%±1.23), H2O2 (78.22%±0.94, 88.99%±1.03), and FRAP (78.43%±1.25, 88.49%±0.67) assays. The antimicrobial activity was highest at 100 µL for S.mutans (38±2.62 mm), S.aureus (36±3.16 mm), E.faecalis (21±1.48 mm), and C.albicans (23±2.36 mm). Conclusion: The study concluded that PPE has antiinflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties and these properties are concentration-dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As per the increasing demand for new sustainable materials and methodologies, green synthesis of metal oxide nanoparticles has drawn the attention of many researchers. However, compared to certain other metal oxides, there has been comparatively less attention towards green synthesis of Ruthenium oxide Nanoparticles (RuNPs). In this paper, RuNPs were synthesized using plant extract of Iris Kashmiriana (found in the high-altitude region of Kashmir in India) and characterized by FT-IR, SEM, EDX, and XRD. Particles were synthesized in the dimensions of 25–30 nm. FT-IR peaks in this 3348 cm-1 infrared spectrum range confirmed Ru-O symmetric stretching while crystalline structure was confirmed by X-ray diffraction. By displaying a zone of inhibition for erythromycin, the synthesized ruthenium oxide nanoparticles exhibit potent antibacterial action against four different pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most prevalent diseases affecting neonate to geriatric age group. Widespread use of antibiotics has led to emergence of resistant microorganisms. As the antibiogram of the microorganisms are frequently changing the present study was done to analyze recent antibiotic sensitivity pattern of uropathogens. Methods: The present study is a retrospective analysis of antibiotic susceptibility patterns of uropathogens, conducted at Department of General medicine at a tertiary care hospital, Andhrapradesh, India. Age, Gender and Co morbidities of the patients were obtained from inpatient registers of General medicine. The organism isolated and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles were collected from the Department of Microbiology. Results: 100 urine samples were collected and sent for culture and sensitivity of which organisms were isolated from 74 samples, of which 67.56% were females and 32.44% were males. The overall prevalence of UTI was found to be high in diabetics (42%). High prevalence was observed in females as compared to males (2:1). Though the overall prevalence was high in >45 years age group patients, in females high prevalence was seen among middle-aged (31 to 45 years) patients and in male high prevalence was seen among >45 years age group patients. Escherichia coli (54.05%) was the commonest isolate causing UTI followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (27.02%). The most effective antimicrobial agents in our study were Meropenem, Amikacin, Nitrofurantoin and Cotrimoxazole whereas higher resistance was observed among Fluoroquinolone, Amoxicillin, third generation Cephalosporins. Conclusion: As drug resistance among bacterial pathogens vary time to time and by region, regular surveillance and monitoring is necessary for giving updated information to physician for most effective empirical treatment of UTIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kluyvera spp. is a Gram-negative bacillus and was discovered by Kluyver and van Niel, included in the family Enterobacteriaceae. We report two cases of urinary tract infection due to Kluyvera ascorbata. The first case was a 61-year-old male, who was admitted to the nephrology department of the hospital with chief complaints of fever with chills from 1 week, abdominal pain, and difficulty in passing urine. The second case was a 29-year-old female, who presented to the medicine department of the hospital with a 4-day history of fever with associated chills and rigor, abdominal pain, chills, and weakness. These patients were treated with nitrofurantoin given orally for 7 days they recovered completely. This case series highlights the role of K. ascorbata, and in general of Kluyvera species, as an unusual but potentially dangerous pathogen, the need for prompt identification to determine potential pathogenicity in the immunocompetent as well as in the immunocompromised host, and to assess the efficacy of antibiotics such as carbapenems and nitrofurantoin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Presently, many laboratories are equipped with automated system for antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) for minimum inhibitory concentration-based reporting which enables the clinician to choose the right antimicrobial for timely treatment of sepsis. The study aimed to assess performance of direct AST from blood culture positive broth using automated AST system for accuracy and time taken to release the report. Materials and methods: The present study conducted in a 25-bedded ICU in North India for 12 months. Single morphotype of bacteria on gram stain from positively flagged blood culture bottles were included, which was directly identified (using an in-house protocol) with MALDI-TOF-MS from positive blood culture broths. DAST was carried out from 200 such blood culture broths and results were compared with reference AST (RAST) which was also done using VITEK-2 using overnight grown bacterial colonies as per standard protocol. Results: Among 60 isolates of Enterobacterales, 99% categorical agreement for both E. coli and K. pneumoniae observed by two methods were tested for AST. Among non-fermenters, Pseudomonasaeruginosa showed a categorical agreement of 99.6%, as compared with Acinetobacterspp. and exotic GNBs, which showed 95-96% agreement. A significant difference of 18-24 hours was noted in time to release the report between DAST and RAST, for GNB and GPC both. Conclusion: Direct AST from positive flagged blood culture bottles can significantly reduce the time to release the bacterial susceptibility report by up to 24 hours, at the same time maintaining the accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to audit the antibiotic usage and its concordance with the sensitivity pattern following emergency abdominal surgeries. This longitudinal study comprised a single group of patients above 18 years of age, who underwent emergency abdominal surgeries. The antibiotic administered preoperatively was noted. The sensitivity patterns of organisms isolated from intraoperative fluid or blood cultures were noted. The concordance between the antibiotics given and the culture sensitivity reports was analyzed. A total of 97 patients were included in the study. Among the 97 patients, 62 were included for analyzing antibiotic concordance after excluding the cases where cultures were not sent or if the antibiotic was stopped. The antibiotic usage was found to be concordant in 35/62 cases (56.40%) and discordant in 27/62 cases (43.54%). Out of the total discordant cultures, the first-line antibiotics were discordant in 62.9% (n = 17) and the second-line antibiotics were discordant in 37.04% (n = 10) cases. The maximum resistance among antibiotics was found against minocycline (80%), followed by ceftazidime (73.45%) and ciprofloxacin (73.45%). The most commonly isolated organism from the cultures was Escherichia coli, followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae. The concordance of antimicrobial usage was seen in 56% of cases. The most commonly isolated organisms isolated in the culture were Escherichia coli, followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae. The highest resistance was recorded against minocycline followed by cefotaxime and ciprofloxacin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Rapid increase in antimicrobial-resistance is leading to urgent need for newer broad-spectrum antimicrobials. Therefore, we have evaluated the antimicrobial résistance spectrum of India-discovered novel antibiotics (levonadifloxacin) against clinical isolates recovered from cancer patients. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in the microbiology department, over a period of 1 year between May 2021 and June 2022 and 374 consecutive and nonduplicate Gram-positive (GPC) and MDR Gram Negative Bacteria (GNB) isolate were analyzed from 3,880 cancer patients in study. The identification and antimicrobial sensitivities of bacterial isolates were performed according to standard laboratory protocols by using automated identification system (VITEK-2-8.01; BioMérieux, Germany). The activity of levonadifloxacin and comparator antibiotics was evaluated using disk diffusion methods as per Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute 2022 guidelines. Results: The mean age of the patients were 51.6 ± 14.59 years with male: female ratio of 1.2:1. The prevalence of GPC was 167 (44.65%) and MDR-GNB was 207 (55.34%). The most common GPC was Staphylococcus aureus; 97 (58.08%) followed by Enterococcus species 66 (39.52%). In GNB, Escherichia coli; 93 (44.92%) was the most common followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae; 45 (21.73%). Levonadifloxacin susceptibility was present in 98.7% methicillin-resistant S. aureus and 96% methicillin-susceptible S. aureus and 77.1% Enterococcus-species. Additionally, all the fluoroquinolones-resistant S. aureus isolates were susceptible to levonadifloxacin (WCK-771) except one isolate. Also, levonadifloxacin-(WCK-771) exhibits 100% susceptibility fluoroquinolone susceptible GNB, such as E. coli, K. pneumoniae, Pseudomonas species, and Acinetobacter species. Interestingly, all fluoroquinolones-resistant Salmonella species and Stenotrophomonas maltophilla exhibited 100% susceptibility to levonadifloxacin (WCK-771). Conclusion: Levonadifloxacin (WCK-771) possesses potent activity against all the MDR Gram-positive pathogens including the coverage of susceptible Enterobacterales and MDR S. maltophilla and Burkholderia cepacia suggesting its potential utility in the management of polymicrobial infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The success or failure of a potential drug depends on its absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) characteristics, and these features are usually rate-limiting in the drug development process. Hence, it is essential to know about the predicted ADMET properties of the most promising leads to avoid the risk of late-stage attrition. This project focuses on in silico screening of ADMET properties of phytochemicals found in Dakshina Kannada's medicinal plants, which include Tinospora cordifolia , Azadirachta indica , Ocimum sanctum, and Plectranthus amboinicus , mainly known for their antimicrobial properties. The physicochemical properties, bioactivity scores, ADMET, and molecular interactions of the selected phytoconstituents were determined by QikProp, Molinspiration, ADMETlab 2.0, ProTox-II, and GLIDE. In addition, molecular docking checked for their binding interactions with target proteins 1JIJ and 4 HOE of Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans , respectively, as they were well known for their antimicrobial properties. In this studies, rosmarinic acid was well interacted phytochemical with both target proteins and has highest docking score. The physicochemical properties showed that all compounds fell under the recommended molecular weight, volume, and polar surface area range. Xanosporic acid violated two rules of Lipinski's Rule of Five, indicating that it may have problems with oral bioavailability. The ADME properties for most of the phytocompounds were within the recommended ranges; hence, they are promising candidates for drug development. Most phytoconstituents showed good bioactivity scores, indicating they have good druglikeness properties. On the analysis of the toxicity, most of the phytoconstituents were found to be noncarcinogenic and nonmutagenic. Therefore, this data can further be utilized as primary tools for determining the biological actions of these plants. Xanosporic acid was found to violate two out of three rules of Lipinski. Similarly, ursolic acid and oleanolic acid also showed a few undesirable properties. All other compounds otherwise showed desirable properties and hence are promising candidates for drug development. This data can be further utilized as primary tool for determining the biological actions of the plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant public health threat, and understanding the awareness and practices of healthcare professionals is crucial for its mitigation. Since the animal sector plays a key role in India's economy, we decided to explore the understanding of Antimicrobial Use (AMU) and AMR among veterinary professionals. Methods: The study aimed to evaluate the awareness and behavior of veterinarians and para-veterinarians working in the Jhunjhunu district, Rajasthan, India, concerning AMU and AMR. Questionnaire surveys were administered to them with closed-ended questions. The data was collected and subjected to statistical analysis to derive meaningful insights. The key findings highlight notable differences in certain behavioral aspects of antibiotic prescription among the two groups. Results and Discussion: It appears that 53.8% of veterinarians as compared to 25.8% para-veterinarians do not surely inform farmers about the importance of adhering to antibiotic withdrawal periods, thereby failing to raise awareness about proper antibiotic use. Moreover, para-veterinarians (46.6%) tend to engage less in evidence-based antibiotic prescription than veterinarians (81%). Furthermore, both groups exhibit a lower frequency of advice on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (ABST), essential for informed prescribing decisions. Most significantly, both groups show a tendency to prefer critically important antibiotics for prescription, raising concerns about the escalating threat of AMR. This study thus emphasizes the areas that need targeted interventions to enhance responsible antimicrobial usage and curb the growth of AMR in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study documents the antibiotic resistance phenotypes among 134 strains of Pasteurella multocida isolated from chicken, ducks, turkeys, pigeons and geese in India. P. multocida type A was found to be predominant capsular type causing fowl cholera. The isolates were resistant to sulphadiazine (90.3%), tetracycline (32%), pefloxacin (20.9%), ciprofloxacin and spectinomycin (18.6%). The sensitivity pattern indicates that the gentamicin was most effective (98.5%), followed by amoxyclav (97.7%), ampicillin (93.3%) and ceftriaxone (94%). Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim was found to be effective against 83.5% of the isolates. Erythromycin and enrofloxacin exhibited intermediate sensitivity of 57% and 67.1%, respectively. Also 23.8% isolates were found to be multidrug resistant and was statistically significant (p<0.05). The emergence of multidrug resistant strains of P. multocida among poultry warrants the judicious use of antimicrobial agents for treating the diseases caused by P. multocida in avian spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: There is a need to assess the availability of essential antimicrobials, as the availability of an antimicrobial is a critical element of its rational use. We aimed to assess the availability of antimicrobials listed in the National List of Essential Medicines 2015, India (primary list), and a selected (secondary) list comprised of agents indicated for commonly encountered infectious illnesses in various healthcare settings and to identify the reasons for their non-availability. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 25 public, private, and other sector pharmacies was carried out in Rohtak, a district of the North Indian state of Haryana, from April to June 2022. (3) Results: Most of the antimicrobials surveyed were optimally available in various sector pharmacies with the exception of benzathine benzylpenicillin, benzylpenicillin, cloxacillin, cefazolin, cefuroxime, cefadroxil, amphotericin B, and antimalarials. The most frequent reasons for limited availability were low demand, no prescriptions, and the non-listing of drugs in the state's essential medicine list. (4) Conclusions: Enough evidence needs to be generated with respect to the status of availability of essential antimicrobials from different regions of India as well as other lower-middle-income countries to devise measures for ascertaining better availability of these agents, especially antibiotics at regional, national, and global scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Analgesics and antimicrobial agents are commonly prescribed drugs in dental patients. Therefore, monitoring their use and adverse reactions is very important. Aims and Objectives- To evaluate the prescription patterns and associated adverse drug reactions of analgesics and antimicrobial agents in dental patients. Materials and Methods: This is an observational study conducted in a tertiary care centre in northern India from July 2022 to September 2022. The study assessed a total of 100 prescriptions from dental practitioners. The majorities of patients visiting were in the age group of 21-30 years. The standard ADR reporting forms of CDSCO were used to record all adverse events experienced by the patients. Adverse drug reaction's causality assessment was done using Naranjo's Scale and the severity assessment by Modified Hartwig & Siegel scale. Results: The majorities of patients visiting the dental practitioners were males (53%) and the most common dental infections for which antimicrobials and analgesics prescribed were acute/chronic Caries (33%), acute/chronic Periodontitis (30%), Pericoronitis (19%), Periapical abscess (4%), Post RCT (5%), Trismus (2%), Sialadenitis (1%), Post operative TMJ ankylosis (1%), Oral Cancer (1%), Oroantral Fistula (1%), Ameloblastoma of jaw (1%), Cellulitis (2%). The antimicrobials most frequently used for management of the observed conditions were Amoxycillin + potassium clavulanate(67%), Cefixime (27%), cefixime + clavulanic acid (2%), Ceftriaxone (inj.) (1%), Amikacin sulphate (1%), Metronidazole (2%) and the most common Analgesics prescribed were Aceclofenac + paracetamol (71%), Paracetamol (5%), Diclofenac sodium(23%), Dynapar AQ (1%) Out of 100 patients, 19 reported adverse drug reactions (ADRs), and out of 19 patients with ADRs, 52 different types of adverse drug reactions were reported. Conclusion: Our findings suggested caries as the most frequently reported conditions for which Antimicrobials and Analgesics were prescribed. Amoxicillin+ Potassium Clavulanate followed by cefixime was the most commonly used antimicrobials. 19% patients reported ADRs of which nausea and diarrhea were most frequent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Multiple antibiotic resistances in the bacteria that cause infections in humans have been directly caused by the ongoing use of antibiotics in clinical practise. In undeveloped and impoverished nations, the overuse and inappropriate use of antibiotics may increase the risk of resistant bacteria emerging and proliferating throughout the population. Consequently, the antibiotics' effectiveness is declining. Therefore, there is now more interest in the therapeutic use of natural materials due to the need for innovative alternative antibacterial techniques. Aim and Objective: To study the antimicrobial activity of honey against clinical isolates of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus with special reference to Mec A gene, from various clinical samples at a tertiary care centre, Uttar Pradesh, India. Material and Methods: This was a prospective study carried out in the Department of Pharmacology and the Microbiology Department for a period of 1 year i.e, August 2022 to August 2023 at a Tertiary care centre, Uttar pradesh. The antibacterial activity of Dabur pasteurised honey was evaluated against the bacterial strains of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Methicillin Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus. Their antibacterial sensitivity pattern was tested using Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion susceptibility testing technique according to the CLSI guidelines 2022 along with other commonly used antimicrobials. Results: A total of 200 clinical isolates were isolated, out of which 72 isolates were of S.aureus in which a total of 24 MRSA isolates were were identified by CX, OX, and E-test. The DNA was extracted using the DNA extraction Qiagen Kit and the Mec A gene was detected by the PCR. In the present study there were 24 isolates of MRSA out of which 15(62.5%) isolates were sensitive to honey and 48 isolates of (MSSA) Methicillin sensitive S. aureus out of which 42(87.5%) isolates were sensitive to honey. It was observed that all the Methicillin resistance isolates were resistant to Cefoxitin and Oxacillin whereas sensitive to linezolid, Teicoplanin and Vancomycin. In the present study the results of antibacterial activity of honey towards the two microorganisms tested were performed. MRSA as well as MSSA were sensitive to undiluted honey samples tested with an average zone of inhibition of 30.03± 0.1 and 41.06±0.2 respectively. Both MRSA and MSSA isolates were sensitive to honey. But MRSA were resistant to all antimicrobials tested except linezolid where as MSSA were sensitive to all except penicillin. Conclusion: Honey is undoubtedly a viable candidate for further research and testing as an antibacterial in the future. With more research on its mode of action at the molecular level, honey could find extensive application as an antibacterial agent in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pterostilbene is a natural compound that can be found in various food plants such as blueberries, grapes, and peanuts. It has also been reported to be extracted from Pterocarpus indicus, a tree species native to India and Southeast Asia. Pterostilbene exhibits various pharmacological activities such as antioxidants, anti-proliferation, anti-microbial, and anti-inflammatory activities with favorable pharmacokinetic properties, such as high oral bioavailability and longer half-life. The anti-inflammatory effect of pterostilbene has been reported to contribute to its therapeutic effects in many chronic inflammatory diseases. Besides, pterostilbene has anti-cancer activity on various types of cancers due to its ability to induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Hence, in this review, we discuss the anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities of pterostilbene in preclinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India at present is one of the leading countries in antimicrobial drug production and use, leading to increasing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and public health problems. Attention has mainly been focused on the human and food animals' contribution to AMR neglecting the potential contribution of the perceptibly degraded aquatic environment in India. The paper reviews the available published literature in India on the prevalence of antimicrobial residues and their dissemination pathways in wastewater of pharmaceutical industries, sewage treatment plants, hospitals, riverine, community pond water, and groundwater. The prevalence of antimicrobial residue concentration, pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria antimicrobial resistant bacteria (ARB), their drug resistance levels, and their specific antimicrobial resistant genes (ARGs) occurring in various water matrices of India have been comprehensively depicted from existing literature. The concentration of some widely used antimicrobials recorded from the sewage treatment plants and hospital wastewater and rivers in India has been compared with other countries. The ecotoxicological risk posed by these antimicrobials in the various water matrices in India indicated high hazard quotient (HQ) values for pharmaceutical effluents, hospital effluents, and river water. The degraded aquatic environment exhibited the selection of a wide array of co-existent resistant genes for antibiotics and metals. The review revealed improper use of antibiotics and inadequate wastewater treatment as major drivers of AMR contaminating water bodies in India and suggestion for containing the challenges posed by AMR in India has been proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Penicillium citrinum and Penicillium expansum are primarily associated with the spoilage of wide variety of fruits and derived food products. Increasing demand of consumers for preservative (synthetic) free food has led the researchers to explore natural substances for controlling spoilage and pathogenic microbes. Past researches have demonstrated the antimicrobial activities of spices. Present study was undertaken to assess the growth inhibitory activities of aqueous extracts (AEs), essential oils (EOs) and powdered (PD) forms of 10 spices towards P. citrinum (MTCC2553) and P. expansum (MTCC2006). PD spices were evaluated for their growth inhibitory potential using spice agar method. Impregnated paper disc method was followed for the antifungal screening of AEs and EOs, while broth dilution method was opted for the determination of their minimum inhibitory concentrations. Results revealed that AEs of all the spices were found ineffective, whereas PD forms of three spices, namely, Cinnamomum cassia (Blume), Cuminum cyminum and Syzygium aromaticum, significantly arrested the growth of both the fungal strains. Nevertheless, EOs of Allium sativum, Brassica juncea, C. cassia (Blume), C. cyminum, Mentha piperita, Ocimum sanctum and S. aromaticum, exhibited remarkable antifungal activities against both the fungi. P. citrinum was more susceptible as compared to P. expansum, towards tested substances. According to our results, PD spices, being cheap and safe, may be persued as 'green antimicrobials' along with spice EOs, for in vivo studies to extend the shelf life of fruits and their processed products. Therefore, this study would prove a great help to the agricultural sector and food processing industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study was conducted to study the prevalence of HAIs in a newly established MICU, common microorganisms causing HAIs and their antibiotic-sensitivity profile, and antimicrobial utilization and mortality rate. Methods: The present retrospective cohort study was carried out at AIIMS, Bhopal (2015–2019). The prevalence of HAIs was determined; sites of HAIs and common causative microorganisms were identified, and their antibiotic-sensitivity profiles were studied. The group of patients with HAIs was matched with a control group drawn from the pool of patients without HAIs; this matching was done with respect to age, gender, and clinical diagnosis. Antimicrobial utilization, Period of ICU stay, comorbidities and patient mortality rates in the two groups were analyzed. The clinical criteria by the CDC- National Nosocomial Infections Surveillance to diagnose HAIs. Results: A total of 281 ICU patients' records were analyzed. The mean age was 47.21 ± 19.07 years. Of these 89 were found to have developed ICU-acquired HAIs (Prevalance:32%). Bloodstream infections (33%) and respiratory tract infections (30.68%), catheter-associated urinary tract infections (25.56%), and surgical site infections (6.76%) were the commonest. The most frequently isolated microorganism causing HAIs was K. pneumonia (18%), A. baumannii (14%) and E. coli (12%), 31% isolates of which were multidrug resistant. The average length of ICU stay was high in patients with HAIs (13.85 vs 8.2 days). The most common co-morbidity was type 2 diabetes mellitus (42.86%). Prolonged ICU stays [OR 1.13, (95% CI; 0.04–0.10)] and the presence of HAIs [OR 1.18(95%CI; (0.03–0.15)] were associated with an increased risk of mortality Conclusions: An increased prevalence of HAIs essentially bloodstream infections and respiratory infections with MDR organisms to antimicrobials in the watch group is highly considerable. Acquisition of HAIs with MDR organisms and increased length of hospital stay are considerable risk factors for increased mortality in ICU-admitted patients. Regular antimicrobial stewardship activities and revising existing hospital infection control policies accordingly may reduce HAIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Drug-resistant gram-negative (GN) pathogens are a common cause of neonatal sepsis in low- and middle-income countries. Identifying GN transmission patterns is vital to inform preventive efforts. Methods We conducted a prospective cohort study, 12 October 2018 to 31 October 2019 to describe the association of maternal and environmental GN colonization with bloodstream infection (BSI) among neonates admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in Western India. We assessed rectal and vaginal colonization in pregnant women presenting for delivery and colonization in neonates and the environment using culture-based methods. We also collected data on BSI for all NICU patients, including neonates born to unenrolled mothers. Organism identification, antibiotic susceptibility testing, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) were performed to compare BSI and related colonization isolates. Results Among 952 enrolled women who delivered, 257 neonates required NICU admission, and 24 (9.3%) developed BSI. Among mothers of neonates with GN BSI (n = 21), 10 (47.7%) had rectal, 5 (23.8%) had vaginal, and 10 (47.7%) had no colonization with resistant GN organisms. No maternal isolates matched the species and resistance pattern of associated neonatal BSI isolates. Thirty GN BSI were observed among neonates born to unenrolled mothers. Among 37 of 51 BSI with available NGS data, 21 (57%) showed a single nucleotide polymorphism distance of ≤5 to another BSI isolate. Conclusions Prospective assessment of maternal GN colonization did not demonstrate linkage to neonatal BSI. Organism-relatedness among neonates with BSI suggests nosocomial spread, highlighting the importance of NICU infection prevention and control practices to reduce GN BSI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ageratina adenophora and Chromolaena odorata belonging to the family Asteraceae are the two most noxious invasive alien plant species in the natural forests of Mizoram, a part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. These two noxious invasive species should either be controlled by eradication or managed by exploiting them as a resource for bioprospecting like antimicrobial medicines. The present study has explored the two abundantly available invasive species, for bioprospecting and investigating their antimicrobial potential. The obtained results revealed the presence of varying amounts of flavonoids, steroids, tannins, and alkaloids in the polar and non-polar solvent extracts of A. adenophora and C. odorata. The methanol extract of A. adenophora revealed promising antifungal activity against the test plant pathogenic fungi whereas petroleum ether extract of A. adenophora and C. odorata exhibited significant antibacterial potential against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative test bacteria. The results also revealed the solvent extracts of the studied invasive alien plants exhibited almost similar or more effectiveness with that of commonly used synthetic antifungals like Bavistin and broad-spectrum antibiotics like Gentamicin. Investigating the minimum inhibitory concentration of the plant extracts revealed their effectiveness even at minor concentrations. Therefore, the antimicrobial property of these two noxious invasive alien plant species can be recognized as a beneficial resource for medicinal as well as economic purposes for antibacterial and antifungal materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fermented meat and meat-derived products are rich in significant microorganisms, along with their by-products, which provide quality, safety, and desired prophylaxis functions with them. This itself lends to a naturally good nutritional heritage and is considered an emerging biomarker product. Exploring their positive attributes may contribute prophylactic properties towards health care and profit to the food and feed industries. Our main objectives are to identify native potential bacteria in the regional indigenous meat-derived fermented food, Sathu. Besides, the study of their positive attributing properties of antibiotic sensitivity, anti-microbial, and cytotoxicity effects on the food using biological molecular methods is also necessary. Our findings from the 16S-rDNA sequencing method identified Lactobacillus brevis (KJR2) as the predominant microbial community followed by Bacillus australimaris (KJRc8). Phenotypic characterization revealed both the isolates possess the ability to exist in the harsh environment of gastric conditions. The two isolates were also susceptible to antibiotics, with more sensitivity towards ampicillin, penicillin, streptomycin, and neomycin. Confer of resistance to Penicillin was found to strain, KJR2. The two strains also revealed antagonistic effects against B.subtilis, E.faecalis, and E. coli. Moreover, the food showed cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines, when studied as a part of human efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clausena excavata Burm. is an important medicinal plant belonging to the family Rutaceae. It is well known for its ethnomedicinal uses and therapeutic activities. This plant has been used in different traditional systems of medicine for the treatment of various diseases worldwide. In the present study, the chemical composition of essential oil and phytochemical contents of methanol extract of C. excavata leaf were performed. Further, the therapeutic activities of essential oil and methanol extract of C. excavata leaf were evaluated. The chemical composition of essential oil was analyzed by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS). Myristicin (33.92%), terpinolene (21.29%), and sabinene (13.65%) were found to be the major compounds in leaf essential oil. Similarly, the phytochemical composition of the methanol extract of C. excavata leaf was analyzed using standard procedures. The phenolic content (165.23 mg GAE/g DW) was found to be the major phytoconstituents followed by alkaloids (89.30 mg/g DW) in leaf methanol extract. Furthermore, the antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, and antimicrobial activities of the essential oil and methanol extract were evaluated. C. excavata essential oil showed more antioxidant activity (DPPH IC50 15.92 μg/mL; ABTS IC50 41.85 μg/mL; FRAP IC50 39.9 μg/mL) compared to leaf methanol extract. Similarly, essential oil exhibited higher antidiabetic activity (in terms of α-amylase inhibitory capacity) (IC50 97.50 μg/mL) compared to methanol extract and lower antidiabetic activity in comparison to the standard (IC50 71.9 μg/mL). The anticancer activity of essential oil was found to be more effective against the PC-3 cell line (IC50 39.1 μg/mL) while leaf methanol extract was more effective against OVCAR-3 (IC50 47.5 μg/mL), MCF-7 (IC50 48.1 μg/mL), and h-1299 (IC50 45.9 μg/mL). C. excavata essential oil exhibited lower antimicrobial activity compared to leaf methanol extract. In summary, this study on the characterization of phytoconstituents and pharmacological activities of C. excavata leaf essential oil could be helpful in exploiting its therapeutic potential sustainably as well as the discovery of new lead molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends quality-based “AWaRe classification of antibiotics” for the monitoring of antimicrobial consumption. It classifies commonly used antimicrobials into five main categories: Access, Watch, Reserve, Not-recommended (NR), and Others. At least 60% of total consumption should be from the Access category and <10% should be from the Reserve category to minimize the further development of resistance. However, we do not know how these recommendations compare with current trends in antimicrobial consumption in India. Hence, a study was planned to statistically evaluate the AWaRe classification-based trend of antimicrobial consumption over 5 years. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted to retrieve the antimicrobial consumption data of SMS Hospital, Jaipur, from January 2017 to December 2021 as per AWaRe classification. Regression and statistical process control analysis was carried out separately for all five categories of antimicrobials on MATLAB 2016a (9.0.0.341360). Results: Regression analysis revealed that the consumption of Access, NR, and Others significantly decreased while that of Watch and Reserve increased between 2017 and 2021. Statistical process control analysis showed that the use of Access, Watch, and Others was within prescribed statistical limits but that of Reserve and NR was higher than statistical thresholds at times. Conclusion: The increased consumption of Watch and Reserve antimicrobials combined with surpassing of upper control limit by Reserve and NR antimicrobials at certain times raises concern. Hence, there is an acute need to take measures to generate awareness about the incorporation of the WHO recommendations in practice to support the antimicrobial stewardship program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dracocephalum heterophyllum Benth (Lamiaceae) is a wild herb that possesses a number of biologically active phytomolecules. The aim of this study was to investigate comparative essential oils (EOs) composition and biological (antimicrobial and anti-diabetic) activities of D. heterophyllum from higher altitudes. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and gas chromatography-flame ionisation detector (GC-FID) were carried out for the identification and quantification of EOs components. The hydrodistillation of fresh aerial part of D. heterophyllum gave (0.1–0.8) % w/v EOs yield. Altogether, twenty-seven constituents were identified in the among samples representing (91.0–98.2) % of the EOs composition. The β-citronellol (31.5–83.7) % contributes major constituent in all samples. The in vitro antimicrobial potential of EOs was examined against six human pathogenic bacterial and two phytopathogens fungal strains. Anti-diabetic activity exhibits excellent α-amylase and better α-glucosidase enzymes inhibitor properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Antimicrobial drugs are the most frequently prescribed drugs in hospital settings with intensive care unit (ICU) patients showing the highest consumption of these drugs. Antimicrobial overuse and misuse is attributed to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR in coming years will emerge as a global pandemic, maiming the modern health-care system. High consumption of antimicrobial drugs is one of leading factors contributing to AMR. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed at evaluating the prescription pattern of antimicrobial drugs in ICU and estimates the burden of inappropriate antimicrobial drug utilization in ICU settings of a tertiary level teaching hospital. Materials and Methods: The current study was conducted on 100 patients over a period of 6 months, admitted in surgical ICU (SICU), and neuro SICU (NICU) of a tertiary level hospital in Jammu and Kashmir, India. Study patients were identified through daily review of pharmacy records and antimicrobial drugs prescribed for the initial 5 days of ICU admission were documented in a well-designed questionnaire consisting all the necessary information regarding antibiotic therapy. Results: Out of the 100 enrolled study subjects, 98% received an empiric therapy. Majority of the patients were given a combination antimicrobial therapy during the initial 5 days of ICU admission. The most common antibiotic prescribed as monotherapy was ceftriaxone during the initial 2 days of ICU stay followed by piperacillin-tazobactam and meropenem in the next 3 days. Amikacin was the most frequently prescribed antibiotic in combination therapy during first 2 days followed by vancomycin in the consecutive days. A total of 27 antimicrobial drugs belonging to 15 classes were prescribed to the study participants during the initial 5 days of ICU admission. Conclusion: The study reports a very high consumption of antimicrobial drugs in ICUs with maximum of antimicrobial therapies prescribed empirically. A robust action plan, consisting of proper protocol for prescribing empiric antimicrobials, regular monitoring of antibiotic consumption in ICUs with a system of prospective audit, and feedback and timely interventions are a keystone of good antibiotic stewardship and should be the focus in ICU and NICU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Multidrug-resistant (MDR) organisms in the critical care unit are a worldwide concern. The vulnerability to MDR infection in pediatric patients admitted in neurocritical care are due to altered mental status, immature immune system, higher risk of aspiration, and more frequent use of invasive devices. We aimed to measure the burden of MDR infection in pediatric neurosurgical intensive care unit (NSICU) patients. Methods: All pediatric patients between 1 and 18 years for intracranial and spine surgeries admitted for more than 48 hours in NSICU were enrolled in the study. If patients showed a clinical picture of pneumonia, blood stream infection (BSI), or urinary tract infection (UTI) after receiving mechanical ventilation or an indwelling device for at least 48 hours, samples of tracheal aspirates, urine, blood, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were sent for microbiological culture. We noted the type of organism, MDR infection rate, and associated risk factors. Pearson Chi-squared test and Fisher's test were used for statistical analysis; p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 274 pediatric patients were studied. In 1 year, there was a total of 1790 patient days. The inclusive MDR infection rate was 17.3/1000 patient days. Also, Klebsiella pneumoniae (38.7%) was the commonest MDR pathogen. The commonest source of infection was BSI (32.3%). The risk factors associated with MDR infections were the length of stay in NSICU, mechanical ventilation of more than 5 days, emergency surgery, respiratory and cardiac comorbidities, and poor nutrition status (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The MDR infection rate in our study was 17.3/1000 patient days in pediatric patients. Also, K. pneumonias was found to be the commonest MDR pathogen. Blood stream was the commonest source of infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cutaneous adverse drug reactions (CADRs) are the most common adverse reactions attributed to drugs in which any type of skin reaction can be mimicked, induced, or aggravated. Aim and Objectives: To study the morphological patterns of various types of CADRs. Materials and Methods: It was a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out from November 2017 to September 2019, where medical records of diagnosed cases of CADRs were analyzed in a predesigned proforma with respect to demographic data, clinical features, treatment history (topical and oral), offending drug, temporal association with a skin eruption, investigations, and treatment outcome. Statistical analysis was done using mean, median, and proportion. Results: A total of 180 patients with CADRs were enrolled. There was a male preponderance with the mean age being 32.9 ± 2.9 years. The most common CADR reported was fixed drug eruption (n = 77). Steven Johnson syndrome was the most common (n = 7) severe cutaneous adverse reaction. The mean duration of latency was 6.2 (±8.61 days). Antimicrobial drugs accounted for most of the benign as well as severe CADRs (41.4%). Among all cases, 43.9% of patients had mild CADR and 16.7% had severe CADR. Causality assessment using the Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale, 70% had a possible association, 18.3% probable and 11.7% had a doubtful association. Conclusion: Early identification of CADR is important to reduce morbidity and mortality. Patient education is required to avoid self-administration of drugs and re-administration of the same offending drugs to prevent further morbidity. Immediate withdrawal of the culprit drug/drugs with adequate management can be lifesaving. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Because the risk of health-care associated infections (HAIs) is high in intensive care units, and HAIs are one of the causes of morbidity and mortality and affects the overall quality of health care, the continuous monitoring of HAIs in intensive care patients is essential. Aim and objectives: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out over a period of five years in a tertiary-care teaching hospital. The aim of the study was to investigate the main and specific types of health-care associated Infections and determine the microbiological profile and antimicrobial susceptibility rates of isolates in patients with HAI. Methods: The active surveillance method was used to detect HAIs in patients who spent over 48 hr in a targeted ICU. Patients with blood stream infections (BSI), central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI), catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) and ventilator-associated events (VAE) were included in the study. HAI were diagnosed based on the Centre for Disease Control (CDC)'s National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) updated definitions of HAIs. Results: A total of 121,051 patient days, including 7,989 central line days, 64,557 urinary catheter days, and 18,443 ventilator days, were recorded in the study population and 832 HAIs were diagnosed (incidence rate 6.9%). The overall rates of BSI, CLABSI, CAUTI and possible ventilator-associated pneumonia (p-VAP) were 3.7, 10.6, 2.1 and 13.4/1,000 device days, respectively. The most common organism isolated from BSI was Acinetobacter baumanii (n=322, 29%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae 225 (n=225, 20.3%). 79.8% of Acinetobacter baumanii strains were resistant to imipenem, 77.1% to ciprofloxacin and 76.4% to ampicillin. The most common organisms isolated from CAUTI were non-albicans Candida species (n=38, 18%), followed by E. coli and Citrobacter spp. (each n=33, each 15.7%). Conclusions: A trend of increasing resistance of Acinetobacter baumannii to carbapenems was observed. Risk factor analysis showed invasive procedures during sepsis and organophosphorous poisoning as significant factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine actinobacteriological investigation is still in its beginning in India. Earlier, in the 20th century, studies on Actinobacteria were started and highly concentrated on diversity, identification, and screening for enzymes, antibiotics, and enzyme inhibitors. With the spurge of infectious diseases requiring antibiotics, novel antibiotics are in search as the prevalent ones have declined uses, due to the antibiotic-resistant microbial growth. Unexploited ecosystems are studied for isolation of rare species such as Actinobacteria which are expected to yield newer metabolites. The marine actinobacterial isolation and enumeration were done from sediment samples. The marine Actinobacteria were identified by conventional methods. Further amylase enzyme production and their antibacterial activities are also done following the standard methods. The Micromonospora sp. was identified by chemotaxonomical characteristics and spore chain morphology. Further, the amylase enzyme production was done and quantification of enzyme also done. The potential antimicrobial activity from the amylase enzyme was done. Zone of inhibition and minimal inhibitory concentration were calculated. It concluded that potent antibacterial activity was obtained from Actinobacteria Micromonospora sp. producing amylase enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Corchorus olitorius L. (Family: Tiliaceae) or 'Tossa Jute or Nalta Jute is an important fiber crop in India and Bangladesh. Its leaves are used as folk medicine, food source and have demulcent, diuretic, lactagogue, purgative, antidiabetic, anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and tonic effects. The aim of the research is to evaluate the pharmacognostic characteristics and antimicrobial activity of Corchorus olitorius L. (C. olitorius). Materials and Methods: The pharmacognostic studies were carried out in terms of organoleptic, macroscopic, microscopic, physico-chemical evaluation, phytochemical screening, fluorescence analysis, TLC fingerprinting by standard procedures. Antibacterial activity against gram-negative bacteria E. coli was determined by agar well diffusion method. Results: The leaf of C. olitorius showed serrate margin, stipules at the base, and acute to acuminate apex. Leaves surface microscopy showed numerous prismatic calcium oxalate crystals and covering trichomes. The moisture content 6.6% w/w, ethanol and water-soluble extractive value 4 and 17.6% w/w, total ash 12% w/w, while acid insoluble and water-soluble ash value 2.2 and 2.0% w/w respectively were determined. Phytochemical screening showed the presence of flavonoids, polyphenols, phytosterols/triterpenoids, alkaloids, carbohydrates, tannins, and proteins. Thin layer chromatographic profiling of ethanolic extract was carried out which showed different Rf values. The antimicrobial test showed that aqueous extract has better antimicrobial activity around the tested bacteria (E. coli) than ethanolic extract. Conclusion: The results are helpful in the standardization of the leaf part of the plant C. olitorius. The aqueous leaf extract possessed antimicrobial properties. There is a need to isolate its constituents responsible for antimicrobial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicine relies heavily on the use of medicinal plants. In terms of their pharmacology, they showed a broad spectrum of traits. All but a few of the medicinal plants in India are naturally rich in chemicals. An infinite number of potent phytochemicals can be synthesised by these plants. It is a tropical and subtropical shrub of the Hybanthus enneaspermus (L) famuell family. Asthma, cough, and epilepsy are all treated with the herb in ayurvedic literature as side effects of its usage. For steroids, sugars, alkaloids, polyphenols, catechins, tannins, anthraquinones, and amino acids, phytochemical analysis of Hybanthus enneaspermus achieved good quality. Alkaloids, terpenoids, tannins and glycosides are only some of the many phytochemical elements found in the plant. We examined the plant's phytopharmacological properties, including as anti-microbial and antioxidant properties as well as its effects on diabetes and arthritic conditions. We also looked at its anti-allergic and anti-convulsant properties. The active chemicals extracted from this valued herb have the potential to be used in drug development research because of the plant's wide range of pharmacological activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Resistance developed by micro-organisms against antibiotics is now a global threat. There is a need to look at alternate sources from which substances useful against various diseases can be obtained. Soil surrounding the medicinal plants possessing anti-microbial activity was screened to find soil bacteria capable of producing anti-microbial compounds and to isolate such compounds therefrom. Materials and Methods: Eleven anti-microbial medicinal plants from three regions of Saurashtra, Gujarat, India, were selected, and soil surrounding those plants was collected. Sixty-six isolates of actinomycetes were obtained from the soil samples. Cross streak, agar well, and disk diffusion methods were used for primary, secondary, and final screening, respectively, of the anti-microbial isolates. Results: Among all, the isolate from the soil surrounding Ocimum sanctum in the Gir-Somnath region was found to be most potent and subjected to thin-layer chromatography, bio-autography, bio-chemical tests, enzymatic activity, 16S rDNA sequencing, and gel electrophoresis, which was confirmed to be Streptomyces arenae, followed by optimization of various conditions. Isolation and characterization of the compound were performed by using ultra-violet, Fourier transform infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass spectroscopy. A novel compound was isolated and characterized, which showed potent anti-microbial activity as compared to reference standards by in vitro anti-microbial assay. Conclusion: Soil surrounding medicinal plants which themselves have well-known anti-microbial activity may be a rich source of actinomycetes, which may produce compounds having anti-microbial properties. This can be an emerging strategy for researchers and clinicians to explore soil bacteria for the isolation of biologically active compounds for the management of various diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The indiscriminate usage and overuse of antimicrobials in pets or companion animals are underlying causes of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Despite the multi-faceted global challenge presented by antimicrobial resistance, very few studies have appraised pet practitioners' factors, such as written policy on antimicrobials, dose rate prescribed, use of critically important antimicrobials, and antimicrobial prescription in clean surgical procedures, which can contribute to AMR. In the present study, an online cross-sectional survey among randomly selected pet practitioners (n = 104) of various Indian provinces and union territories was conducted using a questionnaire comprising 33 closed-ended questions on different parameters, viz., the dosage regimen and level of compliance towards guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO), other relevant veterinary associations, and their opinion while prescribing antimicrobials. Almost every practitioner of the 104 respondents had revealed the difficulties with owner compliance; i.e., incomplete course of the antibiotics, inappropriate follow-ups, and improper care of the sick animals. The majority of practitioners (95%) reported self-prescription of antimicrobials by the owner before presenting the pet(s) to the veterinary clinic, whereas more than half of the respondents (64%) revealed unavailability of antibiogram facilities. Furthermore, a large number (76%) of practitioners stated empirical treatment based on their experience as the main criteria for antimicrobial choice in the absence of timely results from the laboratory. Although non-necessitated use of antimicrobials in clean surgical procedures has been claimed, surprisingly, the majority of pet practitioners (97%) reported their use to reduce the post-operative complications. The use of the highest priority, critically important antimicrobials (HPCIA) listed by the WHO for humans, particularly quinolones and third-generation cephalosporin, also has been reported for different infections. The treatment durations were nearly as per the recommended guidelines issued by the Danish Small Animal Veterinary Association (DSAVA) for different ailments. Analysis using chi-square tests exhibited a significant correlation between less experienced veterinarians (less than 5 years) and prescription of antimicrobials restricted for critically important infections in human medicine. However, there seems to be no association between the experience of the practitioner and the further studied parameters, namely, antimicrobial regimen prescription, weighing the animals before prescription, dose rate calculation, and antimicrobial selection and use after clean surgical operations. The findings suggest periodic awareness campaigns among practitioners regarding the implementation of the official guidelines, the need for systematic surveillance of AMR, awareness among pet owners about antimicrobial resistance, and the importance of rational use of antimicrobials on their pets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Illicium griffithii Hook. f. & Thoms is an endemic medicinal plant of North East India found in the Eastern Himalayan region of biodiversity mega centre. Herein, chemical investigation of I. griffithii, afforded five compounds and their structures were determined through extensive use of NMR, HRMS, and FT-IR spectroscopy. The complete proton-proton, proton-carbon coupling network of compound 1 was determined using 1 H-1 H COSY, HSQC and NOESY NMR experiments. All the compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic activity by MTT assay and antimicrobial activity by Agar well diffusion method. Compound 1 exhibited significant cytotoxicity activity against Lung cancer (A549) and pancreatic cancer (MIAPaCa2) cell lines with IC50 values of 15.01 ± 2.69 µg/mL and 47.77 ± 2.38 µg/mL, respectively. Further, the compound 1 exhibited good antimicrobial activities against Escherichia coli and Candida albicans with MIC 7.50 ± 0.28 µg/mL and 7.50 ± 0.86 µg/mL, respectively. The other isolated compounds along with the extracts of I. griffithii also displayed moderate anticancer and antimicrobial activities against respective strains. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of isolation of compounds from bark, wood, and leaf along with cytotoxicity and antimicrobial activities of I. griffithii from the North Eastern region of India and could be a potential herbal medicine in near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artemisia pallens Wall. ex DC, commonly known as davana, is cultivated in India for extraction of its essential oil (DO). In this study, DO collected from thirteen locations (DO1-DO13) and those extracted from six different phenophases and different plant parts were investigated using GC-FID and GC-MS. Altogether, 84 constituents were identified, forming 81.0–96.2% of the total oil composition. Major components of the oils were cis-davanone (17.4–65.1%), bicyclogermacrene (4.0–22.0%), cis-methyl jasmonate (0.4–8.5%), β-eudesmol (0.3–6.6%), davana ether isomer (0.5–6.1%), trans-ethyl cinnamate (1.4–6.1%), and germacrene D (0.1–4.7%). Among all tested oils, the DO10, having low cis-davanone content (27.5%), was found more potent against test microorganisms. The oils collected from different locations showed variations in their physical properties, chemical composition, and antimicrobial activity. Based on the yield and cis-davanone content, the flower bud and full-flowering stages could be suitable for harvesting good quality oil in north Indian plains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indian system of Traditional medicine, AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) has great potential with a History of Safe Use (HOSU) of thousands of medicinal plants included in pharmacopoeias. The multi-targeted approach of phytoconstituents present in different traditionally used medicinal plants makes them suitable candidates for research against various infective pathogens. MAP which is a dairy-borne pathogen is associated with the development of Johne's disease in ruminants and Crohn's disease like autoimmune disorders in human beings. There are no reliable treatment alternatives available against MAP, leaving surgical removal of intestines as the sole option. Hence, there exists an urgent need to search for leads against such infection. The present review has been conducted to find out the ethnopharmacological evidence about the potential of phytoconstituents against Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP), along with the proposal of a potential phyto-MAP mechanism for the very first time taking anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anti-microbial traditional claims into consideration. We have analyzed and reviewed different volumes of the two main traditional scriptures of India i.e. Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API) and Unani Pharmacopoeia of India (UPI), respectively-for identification of potential anti-MAP plants based on their claims for related disorders. These plants were further investigated systematically for their scientific publications of the last 20 years (2002–2022) available through electronic databases including Google Scholar, Pubmed, and Scopus. The studies conducted in vitro , cell lines, and in vivo levels were taken into consideration along with the associated mechanisms of phytoconstituents. A total of 70 potential medicinal plants have been identified. Based on the ethnopharmacology, a potential phyto-paratuberculosis (Phyto-paraTB) mechanism has been proposed and out of 70, seven potential anti-MAP plants have been identified to have a great future as anti-MAP. A novel and scientifically viable plan has been proposed for addressing anti-MAP plants for stimulating research against MAP and related disorders using mass-trusted AYUSH medicine, which can be used as an alternative remedy in resistance cases otherwise can be advocated as an adjuvant with modern treatments for better management of the disease. [Display omitted] • Comprehensive exploration of conventional wisdom and scientific findings for the development of anti-MAP therapies. • Exhaustive review of Indian traditional literature of Ayurveda and the Unani System of Medicine. • Review of scientific findings of traditional heritage and proposal of mechanism against paratuberculosis. • Suggested seven potential phyto-paraTB agents based on their possible role in MAP pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Popularly known as "penicilina" and "terramicina", Alternanthera brasiliana (L.) Kuntze belongs to the Amaranthaceae family and stands out for its ethnomedicinal uses in the treatment of infections caused by pathogenic microorganisms in some countries. The present study aimed to carry out a literature review and analyze whether the scientific evidence really validates the numerous indications for the use of A. brasiliana in traditional medicine for the treatment of infectious diseases. Phytochemical and toxicological studies related to this species were also analyzed. Scientific documents were retrieved from Google Scholar, PubMed®, ScienceDirect®, SciELO, SpringerLink®, Scopus®, and Web of Science™ databases. The literature was reviewed from the first report on the antimicrobial activity of A. brasiliana in 1994 until April 2024. According to the scientific documents analyzed, it was observed that A. brasiliana is widely used as a natural antibiotic for the treatment of infectious diseases in Brazil, mainly in the states of Rio Grande do Sul, Mato Grosso, and Minas Gerais. Its ethnomedicinal uses have also been reported in other countries such as Colombia and India. The leaves (78%) of A. brasiliana are the main parts used in the preparation of herbal medicines by traditional communities. Several A. brasiliana extracts showed low activity when evaluated against pathogens, including gram-positive bacteria, gram-negative bacteria, parasitic protozoa, and fungi. Only two studies reported that extracts from this plant showed high activity against the herpes simplex virus, Mycobacterium smegmatis, and Candida albicans. Phytochemicals belonging to the classes of phenolic compounds and flavonoid (52%), saturated and unsaturated fatty acids (33%), steroids and phytosterols (8%), terpenoids (5%), and fatty alcohol esters (2%) were identified in A. brasiliana. Toxicity (in vivo) and cytotoxicity (in vitro) studies of polar and non-polar extracts obtained from A. brasiliana leaves indicated that this plant is biologically safe. Despite being widely used as a natural antibiotic by traditional communities, scientific investigations related to the antimicrobial potential of A. brasiliana extracts have indicated inactivity against several pathogens. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Out of all Hospital-Associated Infections (HAIs),Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is the second most common infection that accounts for approximately 34%, and 80% are associated with indwelling catheters and hence with biofilm formation, which invites multi-drug resistant microorganisms. The present study was designed to study in-vitro biofilm forming uropathogens and their antimicrobial susceptibility in a tertiary care hospital in north India. Method:The present cross-sectional study consisted of 200 urine specimens collected over one year from patients with symptoms of urinary tract infection. Following their isolation and identification, all the isolates were subjected to screening for biofilm formation by Congo Red Agar (CRA) and the Tube Adherence (TA) methods. Subsequently, the Kirby Bauer-disk diffusion method performed the antimicrobial susceptibility test. Results: Out of the total samples (n = 200), a total of 46 (23%) were positive by the CRA method, while 33 (16.5%) were positive by the TA method. Twenty-one (21%) isolates came positive by both methods. Biofilm formation was seen more commonly in females (82%). Biofilm-forming uropathogens develop a significantly higher resistance to antimicrobial drugs than non-producers. Conclusion: The correlation was significant between biofilm production and multidrug resistance. Also, it was concluded that the CRA method could be employed to detect biofilm formation in resource-limited countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A reliable protocol for in vitro propagation of Potentilla nepalensis was developed and the phytochemical, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects of in vitro propagated and wild grown P. nepalensis plants were compared. Leaves of P. nepalensis used as explants were cultured on conventional Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with different concentrations and combinations of plant growth regulators. Optimum sterilization conditions were achieved by using 0.04% Bavistin for 10 min, 0.04% sodium hypochlorite for 1 min, and 0.04% mercuric chloride for 1 min and the optimum media composition for callus generation was MS minerals containing ammonium nitrate (165 mg L−1), calcium chloride (44 mg L−1), and growth regulators IBA (20 mg L−1), and BAP (4 mg L−1). The phenolic and flavonoid content were higher in wild grown plant (TPC-21.21 ± 0.54 mg g−1 GAE; TFC-4.24 ± 0.17 mg g−1RE) compared to in vitro propagated P. nepalensis (TPC-3.55889 ± 0.72 mg g−1 GAE; TFC-0.33 ± 0.07 mg g−1 RE). Although the antioxidant activity was high in wild grown plant (IC50-235 ± 92.120 µg mL−1) than in vitro propagated (IC50-682.989 ± 57.118 µg mL−1), the antimicrobial properties for bacterial and fungal pathogens were similar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is considered as a sub-category of healthcare-associated infections and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Acinetobacter baumannii complex and Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) are known to be the most important causes. During the last few decades, polymyxins have represented the most commonly used antimicrobial options against multidrug resistant K. pneumoniae. However, in some cases, aminoglycosides were also found to be effective. Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Jaipur from June' 2020 to June' 2021. All endotracheal (ET) aspirate samples from the clinically suspected cases of VAP received in microbiology laboratory were processed using the standard procedures and relevant medical records were reviewed. VITEK 2 automated system was used for the bacterial identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Results: Out of 705 ET aspirate samples received during the study period, 467 were found culture positive. Majority 304 (98.1%) were Gram-negative isolates, while only 6 (1.9%) were Gram-positive. 156;51.3% isolates belonged to A. baumannii complex, followed by K. pneumoniae (73;24.0%). Antimicrobial susceptibility profile of 73 K. pneumoniae isolates to aminoglycosides was noted. Out of 73 isolates, 42 were found to be resistant to both gentamicin and amikacin, 12 isolates were sensitive to both, while 19 isolates showed variable susceptibility. Conclusion: K. pneumoniae is an important causative agent of VAP. While polymyxins have an important role in the management of such cases, aminoglycosides need to be given a careful consideration. They can constitute an effective polymyxin sparing regimen, especially for carbapenem-resistant isolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sepsis is a global health problem. Limited data exist on the prevalence of sepsis using current definitions in ICUs in India.Research Question: In adult patients admitted to ICUs in India, what is the prevalence of sepsis using the previous (Second International Consensus Definitions for Sepsis and Septic Shock [Sepsis-2]) and current (Third International Consensus Definitions for Sepsis and Septic Shock [Sepsis-3]) definitions?Study Design and Methods: Prospective, observational, multicentre, 1-day, cross-sectional study. The primary outcome was the sepsis prevalence using both the Sepsis-2 and Sepsis-3 definitions and their concordance (using Cohen's κ coefficient). Additional outcomes included reporting on current microbiological characteristics, antimicrobial use, multidrug-resistant infections, and 30-day discharge and mortality status in patients with sepsis.Results: A total of 35 ICUs (85.7% private, 14.3% public) participated, enrolling 680 patients (median age, 60 years [interquartile range, 24 years]; 62.1% men). The most common primary diagnosis was renal disease, and common comorbidities were diabetes (44.0%) and chronic renal failure (11.6%). The sepsis prevalence on the study day was 382 of 677 patients (56.4%). Prevalence by Sepsis-3 and Sepsis-2 definitions was 33.2% and 46.2%, respectively, with minimal concordance (κ = 0.32). In patients with sepsis, the most common microorganisms were bacterial (77.9%) followed by fungal (14.1%) infections. Approximately 45% of infections were caused by multidrug-resistant organisms. Mortality at 30 days after the study day (27.6% vs 5.3%; P < .01) and rates of discharge against medical advice (12.8% vs 4.9%; P < .01) were significantly higher in the sepsis cohort compared with the cohort without sepsis, respectively.Interpretation: This multicenter point prevalence study in Indian ICUs showed a high burden of sepsis using both Sepsis-2 and Sepsis-3 criteria, with associated high rates of antimicrobial resistance and mortality. These findings have implications for public health and future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The continuous development of antimicrobial resistance and appearance of new diseases necessitate use of novel and effective antimicrobial molecules. This research work was planned to determine the antimicrobial and metabolite profiling of Streptomyces filamentosus strain KS17 from unexplored regions of Devbag beach, India. The Streptomyce s filamentosus strain KS17 was screened and was subjected to various characterization techniques. Antagonistic activity of ethyl acetate extract was carried out and finally spectral and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was done. The Streptomyces filamentosus strain KS17 displayed a strong antimicrobial activity on cross streak method. The organism produced greyish and light yellow mycelia and optimal growth was observed at 30–35 ℃ and expressed an evolutionary relationship with Streptomyces filamentosus strain Act74 (KT996121). The UV spectrum exhibited active peak at 213 nm. The ethyl acetate extract exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against bacteria and yeasts, such as S. flexneri , E. coli , K. pneumoniae , B. cereus , S. aureus , E. faecalis , B. subtilis , C. albicans and C. glabrata. The gram negative bacteria P. aeruginosa was unsusceptible. The metabolite profiling through GC-MS acquainted the presence of 30 bioactive compounds having antibacterial, anticancer properties. Pentane, 2,4-dimethyl- (40.75%), Stigmast-5-en-3-ol, oleate (17.09%), 2-methylhexacosane (4.52%), 9-Octadecenoic acid, 1,2,3-propanetriyl ester, (E , E , E)- (3.85%) and Phthalic acid, di(2-propylpentyl) ester (2.82%) were the leading compounds available in extract. These compounds are known to have strong antibacterial and antifungal activity. In conclusion, the results clearly suggest the possibility of Streptomyces filamentosus strain KS17 as optimistic candidate for the development of potential antimicrobial drugs after structure elucidation and detail characterizations of bioactive metabolite. [Display omitted] • Streptomyces filamentosus strain KS17 was isolated from marine sediment samples. • The organism was identified as Streptomyces filamentosus through gene sequencing. • Streptomyces filamentosus strain KS17 showed smooth & rectiflexibiles spore chains. • The organism exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against pathogens. • The GC-MS analysis reported 30 compounds having several biological activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: One of the most commonly cultivated plant is Moringa oleifera because it has high medicinal in South India and nutritional values. The phytochemicals in it are widely used for the rapeutic purposes. It has a high economic value because of its usefulness traditionally and has a vast number of bioactive compounds. Phenol is one of the most common antimicrobial compounds found in the seeds of M. oleifera. Methods: In this study we aim to analyse total phenolic compound (TPC) and to observe its antimicrobial activity. Seed extracts were prepared using ethanol in Soxhlet apparatus for 36 hrs. The quantification of phenolic compound was done by spectrophotometric method using gallic acid as standard. The crude extract was characterized by HPLC and FTIR, showed that it contained phenol compounds confirmed by specific peak in some areas. FTIR and showed that it contained phenol compounds confirmed by specific peak in some areas. FTIR revealed the following bonds: 3280.92 cm-1 (O-H groups of phenols), 2922.16 cm-1 (C-H groups of phenols), 1544.98 cm-1 (C=O carbonyl group) and 1230.58 (C-O group of phenol) and 1743.65 cm-1 (C=C group of aromatic compounds). Whereas HPLC analysis of and library search confirmed peaks matches with Gallic acid standard. Moringa seeds were characterized by FTIR before extracted. Therefore the highest Total Phenolic Compound found to be 11.85 mg GAE/g (Gallic Acid Equivalent) was reached at 1: 5 ethanol solvent ratio and 3 days extraction time. Conclusion: This M. oleifera extract showed antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MTCC 1688), Bacillus subtilis (MTCC 8561), Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC 3160) and Proteus mirabilis (MTCC 3310). The anti-microbial activity of the M. oleifera seed is due to the presence of various phytochemicals like phenols. Also it exhibits, a broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity that proves further research is needed to elucidate other bioactive compounds over other pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endophytic bacteria isolated from medicinal plants are crucial for the production of antimicrobial agents since they are capable of possessing bioactive compounds with diverse structures and activities. Cordia dichotoma , a plant of medicinal importance native to the Jammu region of India, was selected for the isolation and characterization of culturable endophytic bacteria and evaluation of their antimicrobial activities. Standardized surface sterilization methods were employed to isolate thirty-three phenotypically distinguishable endophytic bacteria from the root, stem, and leaf parts of the plant. Shannon Wiener diversity index clearly divulged diverse endophytes in roots (0.85), stem (0.61), and leaf (0.54) tissues. Physio-biochemical features of the isolates differentiated the distinct variations in their carbohydrate utilization profile and NaCl tolerance. The endophytes produced an array of enzymes, namely, catalase, oxidase, amylase, cellulase, nitrate reductase, and lipase. The bacterial isolates belong to the genera Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Paenibacillus, Acidomonas, Streptococcus, Ralstonia, Micrococcus, Staphylococcus , and Alcalignes predominantly. However, the antibiotic susceptibility pattern indicated that the isolates were mostly sensitive to erythromycin and streptomycin, while they were resistant to rifampicin, amoxicillin, and bacitracin. Interestingly, majority of the bacterial endophytes of C. dichotoma showed antimicrobial activity against Bacillus subtilis followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae. The 16S rRNA sequence of Bacillus thuringiensis has been deposited in the NCBI GenBank database under accession number OM320575. The major compounds of the crude extract derived from endophytic B. thuringiensis OM320575, according to the metabolic profile examination by GC-MS, are dibutyl phthalate, eicosane, tetrapentacontane, heneicosane, and hexadecane, which possessed antibacterial activities. In conclusion, results indicated the potential of C. dichotoma to host a plethora of bacterial endophytes that produce therapeutic bioactive metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: In a world marked by the increase in chemoresistance leading to the adoption of therapeutic combinations, the advent of generic multi-source drugs, the spread of counterfeiting and substandard drugs, often without active ingredients or falsified active ingredients, a greater vigilance by pharmaceutical regulatory authorities is needed. Drug quality control therefore plays an important role in detecting poor quality products on the market. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing threat to public health. It occurs when vital antimicrobials can no longer effectively treat bacteria and other microbes. Worldwide, around 700,000 people die each year due to antimicrobial resistance and without global action it could lead to 10 million deaths a year by 2050. This study aimed to assess the quality of major antimicrobials sold in Bamako to determine the prevalence of falsified and substandard antimicrobials. Methods: Samples were taken in some pharmacies in Bamako and analyzed according to the standards of the United State Pharmacopoeia (USP), British Pharmacopoeia (BP) and International Pharmacopoeia (IP) by identification and assay methods. Products that do not meet the required specifications described by these pharmacopoeias are declared non-compliant. Results: A total of 151 samples were taken according to a protocol based on the risks, of which 145 were compliant and 6 non-compliant due to an under-dosage of active ingredient. We found 58% of unregistered drugs that came from India and China. Results: A total of 151 samples were taken according to a protocol based on the risks, of which 145 were compliant and 6 non-compliant due to an under-dosage of active ingredient. We found 58% of unregistered drugs that came from India and China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: India, the country with the largest market availability of antimicrobial fixed-dose combinations (FDCs), banned certain antimicrobial FDCs in September 2018. Our objective was to examine the impact of Government ban on the sales of antimicrobial FDCs. Methods: The sales patterns of 14 of the 26 banned antimicrobial FDCs were analyzed using monthly private sector drug sales data from IQVIA (a comprehensive and nationally representative drug sales database) between January 2018 and December 2019. We carried out descriptive analyses to evaluate the trend in sales over time for banned and non-banned antimicrobial FDCs using cumulative sales volumes. Results: Overall, the cumulative sales volume of banned antimicrobial FDCs declined by 75% between January and September 2018 and the same months of 2019, although some banned FDCs continued to be available in significant volumes. The effectiveness of the ban was offset by several pathways. First, the sales of combinations containing moieties belonging to the same drug-classes as the antimicrobials in the banned FDCs increased after the ban. Second, while certain formulations of particular combinations were banned, the sales of other non-banned formulation of these combinations increased. Third, in some cases, products containing new non-antimicrobial components added to the banned combinations remained available. Interpretation and conclusions: While sales of the banned antimicrobial FDCs decreased in 2019, we identified several mechanisms that counterbalanced the ban, including implementation failure, rising sales of congeners, and products with additional non-antimicrobial components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]