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The aim of this study was comparison of the susceptibility to antibiotics of E. coli strains with K1 antigen (E. coli K1+) and non-K1 E. coli strains (E. coli K1-). This study included 67 of E. coli K1+ and 67 of E. coli K1- strains isolated in the time period from June to September of 2008 from pregnant women and newborns hospitalized at dr. J. Biziel University Hospital number 2 L. Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń. Antimicrobial susceptibility of E. coli strains was tested by the disc-diffusion method, on the Mueller Hinton 2 Agar (Becton Dickinson). It was found that 64,2% of E. coli K1+ strains and 53,7% of E. coli K1-strains were susceptible to all tested antibiotics and chemioterapeutics. E. coli K1- strains were more often than E. coli K1+ nonsusceptible to at least one antimicrobial agent. The obtained results indicate that E. coli K1+ strains significant differed in the susceptibility to ampicillin/sulbactam (85,1% versus 95,5%) (p=0,041), cephalothin (70,1% versus 85,1%) (p=0,038) and tetracycline (91,0% versus 74,6%) (p=0,012) from E. coli K1-strains. All tested E. coli K1+ and K1-strains were sensitive to piperacillin/tazobactam, cefoperazone/sulbactam, cefotaxime, ceftazidime, cefepime, imipenem, amikacin, netilmicin and tigecycline. There weren't the ESBL-producing strains among tested E. coli K1+ and K1- rods.

Fifty two clinical isolates of K. oxytoca were included. All of analysed strains were isolated from wound swabs. The aim of this study was to evaluate MIC value of amoxicillin with clavulanic acid, tigecycline and ciprofloxacin. The susceptibility to amoxicillin with clavulanic acid and tigecycline was tested by the Etest. The susceptibility to ciprofloxacine was tested by the agar dilution method. Among of analysed K. oxytoca strains 44 (84.6%) were susceptible to tigecycline, 27 (51.9%) to amoxicilline with clavulanic acid and 21 (40.4%) to ciprofloxacine. These data suggest that tigecycline, may be an effective therapeutic option for the treatment infections caused by K. oxytoca strains.

Lipolytic activity of 40 strains of Candida spp. was tested on API ZYM system and on RPMI agar plates supplemented with 1% Tween 40. Lipolytic activity was indicated by opaque zones around the inoculum cylindrical holes were punched in the medium. Clearing of the medium around the bacterial colonies indicated that an isolate produce lipase. Only 4 (21.1%) strains of C. albicans, and 3 (14.1%) strains of non-C. albicans which hydrolyzed 2-naftylomirystylan by use of the API ZYM system was observed. In contrast, 16 (78.9%) strains of C. albicans and 17 (80.7%) strains of non-C. albicans produced lipases on the agar plate using RPMI agar plates supplemented with 1.0% Tween 40. Determination oflipase activities with the API ZYM system were in no agreement with lipase tests in RPMI supplemented with Tween 40. Our study verify greater usefulness of RPMI supplemented with Tween 40 for detection of lipolytic enzymes of Candida species in comparison to the API ZYM.

In recent years the increase in frequency of fungal infections with Candida sp. was noticed. These infections are connected with ability of Candida sp. to form biofilm on surfaces of biomaterials used in medicine. Furthermore fungal infections make serious therapeutic problems because ofbiofilm resistance to antifungal agents actually. The aim of the study was to evaluate the susceptibility to antifungal agents of Candida sp. and their ability to form biofilm on different biomaterials. 50 strains of Candida sp. isolated from patients of University Hospital No. 1 of dr A. Jurasz in Bydgoszcz were examined. API Candida (bioMérieux) tests were used to identify Candida sp. strains. The susceptibility of the yeast strains to antifungal agents was evaluated by ATB FUNGUS 2 INT (bioMérieux) tests. The susceptibility of examined strains to voriconazole, posaconazole, caspofungin and anidulafungin was assessed by means ofEtests (AB BIODISK) method employing drug concentrations from 0,002 to 32 microg/ml. All analysed strains were susceptible to amphotericin B and caspofungin. Biofilm formation on different biomaterials (silicon, latex, polychloride vinyl, polypropylene, nylon) was measured after 72 hour incubation at 37 degrees C. All examined yeasts formed biofilm on all analysed biomaterials. The highest number of strains formed biofilm on surface of polychloride vinyl: 23 (92,0%) by C. albicans strains and 24 (96,0%) Candida non-albicans strains. The lowest number of the strains formed biofilm on the surface of nylon: 12 (48,0%) of C. albicans strains and 9 (36,0%) of Candida non-albicans strains. The studied strains resistant to azoles and anidulafungin display stronger ability to form biofilm on surfaces of all analysed biomaterials.

A total of 103 isolates of CNS (66 strains of S. epidermidis and 37 strains of S. haemolyticus) were investigated. Lipolytic activity of staphylococcal strains was determined by Tryptic Soy Agar containing Tween 20 or Tween 60. The 95.4% strains of staphylococci demonstrated the lipolytic activity on Tween 20 agar and the 89.4% of strains of staphylococci degradation ester of fatty acids on Tweens 60 agar. We detected that S. epidermidis strains (respectively 95,4%, 89,4%) produced lipases more frequently than S. haemolyticus strains (respectively 72,9%, 59,4%). Studies suggest that source of isolation from clinical materials (blood, wound and pus) does not have an influence on the ability hydrolysis esters.

A serious complication of hernioplasty with the use of a biomaterial implant is deep surgical site infection (SSI) encompassing the implant. Among the most common etiological factors of deep SSI in patients after hernioplasty are Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli strains, which may create a biofilm on the surface of synthetic implants. The aim of this study was assessment of biofilm formation by S. aureus and E. coli on the surface ofpolypropylene mesh. The study included 108 strains (62 S. aureus and 46 E. coli) from the collection of Department of Microbiology Collegium Medicum im. L. Rydygier in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun (CM UMK). Evaluation of biofilm formation was performed using the method of reduction of 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) and a scanning electron microscope. In the group of S. aureus strains, 88.7% isolates formed biofilm very strongly, 1.6% strongly, and 9.7% poor. Among E. coli strains, 54.3% isolates were characterized by very strong biofilm formation, while 45.7% strong biofilm formation. Strains ofS. aureus strongly than E. coli form a biofilm on the surface of monofilament polypropylene mesh.

The aim of this study was the evaluation of the ability of extracellular slime production and adhesive properties of M. morganii strains. This study included 50 of M. morganii strains isolated from clinical samples. All of these strains were isolated in the Clinical Microbiology Department of dr. A. Jurasz University Hospital in 2008-2009. Five (10.0%) out of 50. M. morganii strains demonstrated extracellular slime production. Adherence to polystyrene revealed 36 (72.0%) of M. morganii strains in it 6 strains (12.0%) adhered strongly, medium - 12 (24.0%) and weakly - 18 (36.0%).

The increase of fungal infections in recent years is connected with the progress in medicine. The vast usage of biomaterials is an inseparable element of contemporary medicine but it also leads to development of infections. Yeast-like fungi Candida albicans are still the main pathogen of candidiasis. The ability to slime production and adhesion to polystyrene of Candida sp. on different surfaces can cause to form biofilm on surfaces of biomaterials used in production of catheters, drains and prosthesis. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of slime production and adhesion to polystyrene, of Candida sp. on biofilm formation on different biomaterials. 50 strains of Candida sp. were examined. They isolated from ill to Clinics of Anesthesiology and Intensive Therapy University Hospital No 1 of dr. A. Jurasza in Bydgoszcz. The ability to slime production was evaluated by Christensen method in modification Davenport and Branchini methods. The adhesion to polystyrene was evaluated by Richards et el method. The ability to produce biofilm biomaterials by the studied fungi was measured after 72 hours of incubation at 37 degrees C on different biomaterials. Yeast-like fungi Candida sp. fabricating slime and adhesion forming frequently biofilm on surface researched of biomaterials. Influence of chosen biological specificity ascertain on the ability to produce biofilm on surfaces of siliconized latex and polyvinylchloride.

Enterobacter spp. rods are opportunistic microorganisms which cause of urinary tract infections. The aim of this study was the evaluation of the susceptibility to antimicrobial agents antibiotics of Enterobacter spp. rods isolated from urine. The study was carried 50 of Enterobacter spp strains isolated in the Clinical Microbiology Department of dr. A. Jurasz University Hospital. Antibiotic susceptibility was tested by disk diffusion method. All of strains were susceptible to imipenem and meropenem. There was 87,5% of strains sensitive to doripenem, 79,2% to ertapenem, 54,0% to piperacillin/tazobactam and 50,0% to cephepime. The relatively high percentage (62,0%) of Enterobacter spp. was sensitive to fluoroquinolones. Extended spectrum beta-lactamases were produced by 24 (48,0%) strains.

The aim of this study was the evaluation of the antimicrobial sensitive of Morganella morganii rods isolated from clinical samples. This study included 50 of M. morganii strains isolated in the Clinical Microbiology Department of dr. A. Jurasz University Hospital in 2008-2009. All of strains were sensitive to carbapenems (imipenem, meropenem, ertapenem, doripenem) and piperacillin/tazobactam and most of them to beta-lactam antibiotics, aminoglycosides and fluorochinolons. Resistance to tetracyclines demonstrated 38,0% strains and to doxycycline - 40,0%. One out of 6 strains isolated from urine samples were sensitive to nitrofurantoin. Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamases were produced by 5 (10,0%) strains.

Proteus sp. rods are opportunistic human pathogens. These microorganisms are mainly isolated from patients with urinary tract infections, particularly associated with using of biomaterials, on which surface they can form biofilm. The aim of our study was the estimation of Proteus mirabilis rods ability to form biofilm on the surface of 5 biomaterials (polychloride vinyl, silicone latex, polypropylene, polybutylen teraftalan and polyamide) using Richards' and quantitative method and comparison results of both methods. A total number of 84 P. mirabilis strains were included into the study. All of them were isolated in the Department of Clinical Microbiology University Hospital no. 1 of dr A. Jurasz Collegium Medicum of L. Rydygier in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń between 2005 and 2008. Examined P. mirabilis strains formed heavy biofilm with statistically significantly values on the surface of silicone latex than on polychloride vinyl and on polypropylene surface than polybutylen teraftalen or polyamide. High correlation of both methods was established. The Richards' method can be used to quick identification of P. mirabilis biofilm.

Proteus sp. rods are ubiquitous bacteria, widespread in the environment and classified also as opportunistic human pathogens. The aim of our study was to evaluate susceptibility of Proteus mirabilis strains isolated from white stork (Ciconia ciconia) regarding as his natural bacterial flora, compare and discuss their results with data obtained from scientific literature for clinical strains of the same species. Susceptibility of 59 P. mirabilis strains was estimated for 27 antimicrobials using disc-diffusion method and the ability to produce extended spectrum beta-lactamases was evaluated by double disc synergy test. Environmental P. mirabilis strains isolated from white stork were assessed as more susceptible to most of the examined antimicrobials and production of extended spectrum beta-lactamases was not noted amongst them.

Enterococcus sp. strains are believed as important reason of serious nosocomial infections currently. These infections are cured by using combination of beta-lactams and aminoglycosides for their treatment. Enterococcus sp. resistant to high-level doses of aminoglycosides, beta-lactams and vancomycin are responsible for therapeutic failure. The aim of our study was to evaluate the incidence of isolation and susceptibility to antibiotics of HLAR Enterococcus sp. strains isolated between 2007 and 2010 from the patients of University Hospital No. 1 of dr A. Jurasz Collegium Medicum of L. Rydygier in Bydgoszcz Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń. Amongst 6137 Enterococcus sp. strains 1124 (18,3%) presented HLAR phenotype; 53,1% of them was identified as E. faecalis and 46,9% as E. faecium. The highest percentage of all examined strains was isolated from the patients of different surgery clinics, Intensive Care Units, and Pediatrics, Hematology and Oncology Clinic. HLAR and HLSR phenotypes were noted in E. faecalis, for 45,7% and 27,5% strains, in E. faecium - 29,8% and 9,5%, respectively. HLGR phenotype was presented twice more often in E. faecium than E. faecalis. Highest percentages of E. faecium resistant to glycopeptides and rifampicin were observed when compared with E. faecalis. The highest percentages of strains intermediate, resistant to vancomycin and resistant to glycopeptides were noted for E. faecium strains with phenotypes HLAR, HLGR and HLSR.

Amylase activity of 30 strains of Staphylococcus spp. was determined by Tryptic Soy Agar on supplemented with 1.0% starch as the substrate. After incubation (time incubation 24 h or 168 h), the plates were flooded with Lugol solution. A clear zone around the colonies indicated amylase activity. The 23 (76.7%) strains CNS demonstrated the amylase activity. It was observed that 17 (80.9%) strains of S. epidermidis, and 6 (66.7%) strains non-S. epidermidis, starch hydrolyzed. Amylase production depends of time incubation (frequently 168 h) and growth atmosphere (frequently oxygen atmosphere)

Pseudomonas aeruginosa rods are one of the most common isolated opportunistic nosocomial pathogens. Strains usually are capable to secret a capsule-like polysaccharide called alginate important for evasion of host defenses, especially during chronic pulmonary disease of patients with cystic fibrosis. Most genes for alginate biosynthesis and lysis are encoded by the operon. The aim of our study was to evaluate the incidence of algD sequence, generally use for alginate-coding gene detection, in 120 P. aeruginosa strains resistant to carbapenems. All isolates were obtained in the Department of Clinical Microbiology University Hospital no. 1 of dr A. Jurasz Collegium Medicum of L. Rydygier in Bydgoszcz Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń. Examined strains demonstrated resistance to carbenicillin (90,0%), ticarcillin (89,2%) and ticarcillin clavulanate (86,7%). All strains were susceptible to colistin. The majority of examined strains was susceptible to ceftazidime and cefepime (40,8% each) and norfloxacin (37,5%). Presence of algD gene - noted in 112 (93,3%) strains proves that not every strain is capable to produce alginate. It was also found out that differences in algD genes incidence in case of different clinical material that strains were isolated from were not statistically important.

The aim of our study was the analysis of Escherichia coli strains obtained from patients of University Hospital No 1 of dr A. Jurasz Collegium Medicum of L. Rydygier in Bydgoszcz Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń and State Infectious Diseases Observatory Hospital of T. Browicz in Bydgoszcz, between 2007 and 2010. Among all microorganisms isolated from blood was 8.7% E. coli strains and 45.1% of all rods from Enterobacteriaceae family. Number of E. coli isolations from positive blood samples was: 64 in 2007, 69 in 2008, 77 in 2009 and 26 in the first half of 2010 year. The highest percentage of E. coli strains were obtained from patients of the Transplantology and Surgery Clinic (16.1%), the Nephrology and Internal Diseases Clinic with the Dialysis Centre (14.0%), the Pediatric, Hematology and Oncology Clinic (13.6%) and the Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Clinic (13.6%). All analysed strains were susceptible to carbapenems, amikacin and tygecycline. The highest percentage of resistant strains were observed to ampicillin (70.7%), piperacillin (43.9%), tetracycline (42.8%) and doxycycline (38.8%). During four years of study 4 (6.3%), one, three and two E. coli strains with ESBL were isolated, respectively.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and susceptibility of beta-hemolytic streptococci isolated from throat swabs (142--29.9%) and purulent material (333--70.1%) taken from patients treated at University Hospital dr. A. Jurasz in Bydgoszcz Collegium Medicum. L. Rydygier in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun in 2005-2009. Of the 475 tested strains, 156 (32.8%) were identified as S. pyogenes. This species accounted for 38.8% of strains isolated from purulent material and 19.0% of swabs from the throat. Among the strains isolated from throat swabs of 62 (43.7%) were identified as Streptococcus group C. Only 5.1% strains were identified as Streptococcus group F. All strains of beta-hemolytic streptococci were susceptible to ampicillin or penicillin, fluoroquinolones, vancomycin and linezolid. Erythromycin-susceptible strains was 83.8%, and 89.1% for clindamycin. A total of 51.3% of erythromycin resistance strains had the cMLS(B) phenotype (63.3% for strains from throat swabs and 46.3% of the purulent materials). Sensitivity to tetracycline was characterized by 51.2% of strains of beta-hemolytic streptococci. The percentage of strains susceptible to this antibiotic among isolates from throat swabs was 63.1%, and purulent material--48.0%. The lowest percentage of strains susceptible to tetracycline (14.1%) were found among S. agalactiae and Streptococcus group G (33.6%) strains. During the study time, saw an increase in the percentage of strains susceptible to tetracycline and erythromycin.

In this article, slime production of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis strains from infective skin lesions was evaluated by three different methods: Congo red agar method (CRA), Christensen tube method (CT) and spectrophotometric method (SC). All strains by CT method interpreted as negative (dark-claret or red colonies of the surface). 12 (37.5%) strains of S. aureus, 16 (50.0%) strains of S. epidermidis produced slime as shown by CT method, 6 (18.7%) strains of S. aureus, 8 (25,0%) strains of S. epidermidis by SC method. They also found a correlation of slime production by CT and SC method (p0.05).

P. aeruginosa rods are opportunistic pathogens responsible generally for nosocomial infections. Resistance to carbapenems, observed among them, is a serious threat due to ability to be transmitted between bacterial species. The aim of our study was to evaluate the usefulness of PCR-RAPD technique in typing of 16 carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa strains isolated in 2007 from different patients of University HospitalNo. 1 of dr A. Jurasz Collegium Medicum of L. Rydygier in Bydgoszcz Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń. Study shows increasing frequency of isolation that type of strains when compared to 2006. Percentage of carbapenem-resistant isolates raised from 12,4% in 2006 to 22.9% in 2007. The majority of examined strains were obtained from patients of the Intensive Care Units (25.0%) and were isolated from bronchoalveolar lavage (25.0%), urine (25.0%) and wound swabs (18.8%) samples. Examined P. aeruginosa strains demonstrated resistance to doripenem (81.3%) and piperacillin (75.0%) and susceptibility to colistin (100.0%), amikacin (81.3%), netilmicin and norfloxacin (75.0% each). Using PCR-RAPD amplification with 208 and 272 primers, 14 and 16 DNA patterns were obtained, respectively. Usefulness of PCR-RAPD in carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa strains typing was proved in case of strains presenting similar and/or different antimicrobials susceptibility patterns.

Proteus sp. rods are opportunistic human pathogens, isolated mainly from urinary tract infections. They are naturally susceptible to most antimicrobials. However, acquisition of genes for extended spectrum beta-lactamases on plasmids and irrational antimicrobial treatment increase amount of multidrug resistant strains and lead to their selection. The aim of this study was to evaluate production of ESBLs by double disc synergy test and antimicrobial susceptibility of P mirabilis strains by disc diffusion method. Strains included into the study were isolated from patients of dr A. Jurasz University Hospital No 1 in Bydgoszcz between 2007 and 2009. P mirabilis strains were isolated mainly from urine. In this study 10,4%, 18,7% and 14,4% ESBL(+) P mirabilis strains were isolated in 2007, 2008, 2009, respectively. Resistance to majority of the investigated antimicrobials was observed in ESBL(+) P mirabilis strains.

A. baumannii rods are opportunistic pathogens responsible generally for nosocomial infections. Resistance to carbapenems, observed among them, is a serious threat due to ability to be transmitted between bacterial species. The aim of our study was to evaluate the frequency of isolation and susceptibility to antibiotics of resistant to imipenem and/or meropenem A. baumannii strains isolated between 2007 and 2009 from patients of University Hospital of dr A. Jurasz Collegium Medicum of L. Rydygier in Bydgoszcz Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń. Study shows increasing frequency of isolation that type of strains from 4 in 2007 to 95 in 2008 and 67 in 2009. Percentage of imipenem-resistant isolates raised to 27.6% in 2008 and 31.0% in 2009. Meropenem-resistant A. baumannii isolates frequency changed from 2.1% in 2007 to 31.2% and 34.6%, in 2008 and 2009, respectively. The majority of strains were obtained from patients of the Intensive Care Units and surgery clinics. Examined A. baumannii strains were generally isolated from bronchoalveolar lavage (25.3%) and wound (18.1%) or throat (12.0%) swabs samples. The isolates demonstrated full resistance to norfloxacin, ciprofloxacin, and chloramphenicol. Ampicillin/sulbactam (24.8%), tobramycin (8.1%) and colistin (1.5%) presented the highest in vitro activity against isolated strains.

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an opportunistic Gram-negative bacillus which is becoming increasingly recognized as an important nosocomial pathogen especially in debilitated or immune suppressed patients. S. maltophilia is found in a wide variety of environments. It has been isolated from a number of water sources, soil, variety of plants and food sources. S. maltophilia can form biofilm on synthetic materials for temporary or permanent implantation, i.e. central venous catheters, urinary catheters and prosthetic heart valves. In hospital the organism has been isolated from wet environments such as antiseptic fluids containing chlorhexidine, respiratory therapy equipment and air nebulizers. Little is known of the virulence factors of S. maltophilia. S. maltophilia is naturally resistant to many currently available broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents, including carbapenems. This study was carried out with the objective of evaluating clinical strains isolation and antibiotic susceptibility of S. maltophilia. A total of 80 clinical isolates of S. maltophilia were collected from individual patients, hospitalized at A. Jurasz University Hospital in Bydgoszcz, Poland. To identify S. maltophilia strains and receive biochemical profiles API 20 NE tests (bio Mérieux) ATB Expression computer system (bio Mérieux) with database V 2.4.7. were used. Antimicrobial agents susceptibility was evaluated for 19 different agents. For 18 out of 19 antimicrobial agent Etests (AB Biodisc) were used. For levofloxacine disc diffusion method was used. Most of analyzed strains were isolated from broncho-alveolar lavage (37.5%) from patients hospitalized in Intensive Care Unit (48.8%). 95.7% of isolated strains were susceptible to levofloxacine and 71,3% to trimethoprim/sulfametholxazole. 48 (60.0%) of S. maltophilia strains were identified as multi-drug resistant.

Metallo-beta-lactamases (MBL) are the enzymes that are able to hydrolyse almost the full range of beta-lactame antibiotics--penicillins, cephalosporins and carbapenems. The latter are the drugs of choice for treatment of serious infections caused by Enterobacteriaceae strains, which produce extended-spectrum-beta-lactamases. The presence of MBL-producing strains markedly decreases the therapeutic possibilities in severe, life-threatening infections.We present the case of a 61-yr-old man who underwent surgery for acute leg ischemia, and in whom a bifurcation prosthesis was implanted. The postoperative course was complicated with serious nosocomial infection, caused by MBL-positive Klebsiella pneumoniae strains. Despite multi drug treatment and intensive care, the patient died 30 days after surgery due to multi organ failure. All isolates cultured from the patient were resistant to carbapenems with their MICs exceeding 32 microg mL(-1). The presence of MBLs was detected with the double-disk synergy test. The presence of genes encoding MBLs was determined with a commercial kit, hyplex MBL ID (Bag Health Care, USA). The isolate from blood was found to carry the blaVIM-like family gene, located in a conjugative plasmid.The MBL-producing isolates were the first K. pneumoniae isolates of the kind identified in Poland. They present a serious danger, limiting the usefulness of carbapenems in ITU patients. We recommend that detection of MBLs in Enterobacteriaceae should be regarded as a standard in Polish hospitals.

Carbapenem resistance in Gram-negative bacteria is a worldwide increasing and one of the most disturbing problems, given these antibiotics are drugs of choice in the treatment of infections caused by extended-spectrum-beta-lactamase producing strains. In this study the antibiotic susceptibility of metallo-beta-lactamase-positive and negative Klebsiella pneumoniae strains isolated from intensive care unit (ICU) patients was evaluated. The presence of genes encoding MBLs was determined with a commercial kit hyplex MBL ID (BAG HEALTH CARE). The MBL-producing isolates were the first K. pneumoniae isolates of this kind identified in Poland. It seems that methods for detecting MBLs in Enterobacteriaceae should be included in contemporary standards of microbiological diagnostics in the country.

The aim of the study was to determine the frequency of occurrence of K1 surface antigen in Escherichia coli strains isolated from the pregnant women and newborns. A total of 425 of E. coli strains isolated from the faecal samples, 67 strains isolated from the vagina of pregnant women and 40 strains isolated from the newborns' nasal cavity were included into the study. All strains were collected between June and September of 2008. Identification of isolates was followed by the assessment of presence of K1 surface antigen in E. coli strains. The presence of K1 antigen was found in 17,6% of E. coli strains isolated from the faecal samples, 20,9% of E. coli strains isolated from the vagina of pregnant women and in 17,5% of E. coli strains isolated from the newborns' nasal cavity. Routine screening of E. coli K1 colonization gives an opportunity to identify women with the risk of E. coli K1 transmission to neonates during delivery and thereby with major probability of perinatal infections. Latex agglutination test Pastorex Meningitis (Bio-Rad) provides fast identification of E. coli K1 strains.

The aim of the study was retrospective analysis of Salmonella spp. strains isolated from patients of State Infectious Diseases Observatory Hospital of T. Browicz in Bydgoszcz (SZAK) and University of dr. A. Jurasz in Bydgoszcz (SU CM UMK) in 2006-2009. The percentages of Salmonella spp. strains resistant to at least one drug were: 19,0% in 2006, 12,5% in 2007, 50,6% in 2008 and 43,8% in the first half of 2009 year. The highest number of Salmonella spp. strains resistant to drugs were isolated from stool (96,7%) and from patients of SZAK (83,3%). Among all isolated Salmonella spp. strains resistant to drugs the highest percentage were S. enterica serovar Enteritidis (56,7%). Among S. enterica bacilli predominated resitant phenotypes to ampicillin, amoxicillin, chloramphenicol and nalidixic acid. The increasing number of strains resistant to ciprofloxacin (0,0 - 26,7%) and high percentage of strains resistant to nalidixic acid (97,3%) were noted. Decreasing resistance to chloramphenicol was observed in our study (54,5 - 14,3%).

The aim of this study was comparison of the antimicrobial sensitive, adhesive properties and genetic relatedness of the morphological variants of E. coli strains. This study included 10 of E. coli strains isolated in the Clinical Microbiology Department of dr. A. Jurasz University Hospital nr 1 in 2003-2006, which have grown in two morphological variants--light and dark variant. Ninety percent of morphological variants of E. coli strains differed among themselves in antibiotic sensitivity. Forty percent of morphological variants differed among themselves in adhesion to catheters. The light-colony variants more often adhered to all used catheters. The PFGE analysis of chromosomal DNA showed that 35,0% of morphological variants (two pairs and one triple) had 100,0% relatedness, and the rest of them were closely related.

The aim of this study was comparison of the antimicrobial sensitivity and adhesive properties of E. coli strains isolated from urine and blood samples. This study included 169 of E. coli strains isolated in the Clinical Microbiology Department of dr. A. Jurasz University Hospital in 2003-2006. E. coli strains isolated from urine samples revealed statistically higher production of Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamases and multidrug resistance than strains isolated from blood samples. Stains isolated from the blood adhered to latex and PCV catheters more frequently when compared with strains isolated from urine.

Tigecycline is a new glycylcycline with broad-spectrum activity. Among these new agents, tigecycline is unique in generally having good activity against Gram-negative bacteria. Tigecycline has been approved for the treatment of complicated intra-abdominal infections and complicated skin and skin structure infections. Tigecycline had good activity against most ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae and may be a therapeutic alternative to carbapenems in some infections caused by ESBL-producing isolates, many of which are also multiresistant to quinolones, aminoglycosides, and classical tetracyclines.One hundred and eight clinical isolates of Klebsiella spp. (64 K. pneumoniae and 44 K. oxytoca) were included. The susceptibility to selected antibiotics was tested by the disk-diffusion method. Tigecycline's MIC was determined by the Etest.Of all the analyzed Klebsiella spp. strains, 31 (28.7%) produced ESBLs. Most of the Klebsiella spp. strains were susceptible to imipenem (100%), tigecycline (92.5%), and the combination of piperacilline and tazobactam (80.6%). Tigecycline exhibited high activity against Klebsiella strains, with MICs ranging from 0.19 to 4 microg/ml.Tigecycline demonstrated excellent inhibitory activity against the analyzed strains. These data suggest that tigecycline, with an expanded broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, may be an effective therapeutic option for the treatment of serious infections caused by Klebsiella strains.

Mesh hernioplasty is among the most frequently performed surgical procedures. The introduction of mesh implants has decreased recurrence rates, but the use of synthetic materials carries the risk of infection and biofilm formation. This paper presents the course of the disease in the case of biofilm formation on the surface of an implanted surgical mesh. Antimicrobial therapy and partial removal of the implant were unsuccessful. Recurring surgical site infection could be managed only through total excision of the infected implant.

The aim of this study was evaluation of adhesion of E. coli rods to urological catheters made of different synthetic materials. This study included 74 of E. coli strains isolated from urine and blood samples. All of these strains were isolated in the Clinical Microbiology Department of dr A. Jurasz University Hospital in 2003-2006. Analized strains significantly more often adhered to latex catheters than latex catheters covered by silicon and significantly more often adhered to PCV catheters than latex catheters covered by silicon. Four strains were characterized by a strong adhesion to all kinds used urological catheters, used in this study. Among E. coli strains isolated from the blood a higher percentage of strains demonstated adhesion to latex and PCV catheters than in the group of E. coli strains isolated from urine samples (79.3% vs. 68.9% and 69.0% vs. 55.6%, respectively). Out of strains demonstrating the adhesion to urological catheters, the most came from the patients from Clinic of the Nephrology, of Arterial Hypertension and Internal Diseases with the Station of Dialyses. All of lactose-negative E. coli strains adhered weakly to urological catheters.

The aim of this study was to evaluated the susceptibility of Enterobacteriaceae rods to tigecycline, tetracycline and doxycycline. We analysed 121 strains belonged to species as follows: Escherichia coli (40 strains), Proteus mirabilis (22), Enterobacter cloacae (19), Klebsiellapneumoniae (18), Morganella morgannii (13), Serratia marcescens (4), Klebsiella oxytoca (3) i Proteus vulgaris (2). All strains of E. coli, K. oxytoca, S. marcescens and P. vulgaris were susceptible to tigecycline. Twenty five of analysed strains produced extended-spectrum beta-lactamases. Among of ESBL-positive strains 22 (88.0%) were susceptible to tigecycline and 13 (52.0%) to tetracycline and doxycycline.

Rapid detection and identification ofmethicillin-resistant staphylococci in patient's blood is essential for the prompt antimicrobial therapy of infection. Molecular-based diagnosis, in comparison to conventional methods, allows to increase sensitivity and to reduce time necessary to achieve positive results and also enable to test susceptibility. The aim of the study was the use of multiplex PCR to detect region of the 16S rRNA that is unique to staphylococci, the S. aureus-specific clfA gene and the mecA gene which is a determinant of methicillin resistance, in a medium of the BACTEC blood culture system. Three different extraction methods were examined in order to ascertain the most suitable method to isolate staphylococcal DNA. The only method which removed PCR inhibitors contained in BACTEC blood culture material use Triton X-100 and lysostaphyin to lysis bacterial cells. The use of High Template Preparation Kit failed to yield a positive result in all investigated probes. Third of the methods, based on alkali lysis, resulted in DNA which could be amplified by PCR only in case of S. aureus blood culture. The findings of our study suggest that not all DNA extraction methods are appropriate because some of them may not remove potent amplification inhibitors found in blood and medium of system BACTEC.

Doripenem, the newest carbapenem was approved in 2008 by the European Medicines Agency for the treatment of complicated intra-abdominal infections and complicated urinary tract infections. Its spectrum of activity is similar to that of meropenem and imipenem/cilastatin. The aim of this study was to compare in vitro activity of doripenem against nonfermentative Gram-negative rods. A total of 235 strains of Pseudomonas spp. (74.9%) and Acinetobacter spp. (25.1%) were included into the study. Strains were isolated in The Department of Clinical Microbiology of the University Hospital No 1 in Bydgoszcz and identified using ID GN tests (bioMérieux). To determine susceptibility to doripenem and other carbapenems disc-diffusion method was applied. Percentage of doripenem resistant strains reached 28.4% and 39.0% for Pseudomonas spp. and Acinetobacter spp, respectively. All doripenem sensitive or intermediate Acinetobacter spp. strains were simultaneously sensitive to imipenem and meropenem. Activity of imipenem and meropenem among doripenem resistant Acinetobacter spp. were represented by 60.9% and 56.5% strains, respectively. Activity of imipenem and meropenem among doripenem resistant Pseudomonas spp. strains were represented by 12.0% and 18.0%, respectively. Occurence of one doripenem sensitive Pseudomonas spp. strain simultaneously resistant to imipenem and meropenem was observed.

The aim of this study was evaluation of influence of culture conditions (nutrient availability, pH, temperature) on adhesion E. coli strains to polystyrene. This study included 74 of E. coli strains isolated from urine and blood samples. All of these strains were isolated in the Clinical Microbiology Department of Dr. A. Jurasz University Hospital in 2003-2006. Analyzed strains most often adhered to polystyrene after incubation in high-nutrient medium, at pH values between 5.0 and 7.0, at 37 degrees C.

The aim of our study was to evaluate a frequency of isolation and susceptibility to antibiotics of vancomycin-resistant enterococci isolated between 2005 and the first half of the 2009 from patients of University Hospital of Dr. A. Jurasz Collegium Medicum of L. Rydygier in Bydgoszcz Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruli. Study shows increasing frequency of VRE isolation from two in 2005, 8 in 2006, 30 in 2007 to 79 in 2008 and 40 in the first half of 2009 year. Among all isolated VRE strains E. faecium definitely predominated (75.0-90.0% in 2006-2009). The majority of strains were obtained from patients of the Pediatrics, Hematology and Oncology Clinic (43,4%) and Pediatric Surgery Clinic (41.5%). VRE strains were mainly isolated from digestive tract (79,9%). The isolates demonstrated frequently resistance to penicillin, ampicillin, ciprofloxacin, rifampicin and chloramphenicol. Percentage of VRE strain resistant to aminoglycosides decreased during the last four years of study. Over 56% of VRE isolates showed resistance to teicoplanin. Linezolid and quinupristin-dalfopristin were the only drugs presenting activity against isolated VRE strains.

The aim of this study was to estimate effectiveness of methicillin-resistant S. aureus identification using screening method with oxacillin (6 microg/ml), latex agglutination test--Slidex MRSA Detection and a chromogenic agar medium--MRSA ID. The investigation were carried out on 120 S. aureus strains isolated from clinical materials of patients hospitalized in the University Hospital at the L. Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, University of Nicolaus Copernicus in Torún. Consistency of results between chromogenic medium and latex agglutination test amounted 97.5%, chromogenic medium and screening method--96.7%. Identical correspondence of results took a stand in case screening method and latex agglutination test. Results consistency of detecting methicillin resistance in S. aureus strains between this three methods concerned 95.8% strains. Our investigation demonstrated 96.7% sensitivity and 100% specificity for MRSA ID medium for the detection of methicillin resistance. The sensitivity of MRSA-Screen was 95.0% and its specificity reached 100%. The sensitivity and specificity of screening method amounted 96.7%.

The increase of fungal infections in recent years is connected with the progress in medicine. The vast usage of biomaterials is an inseparable element of contemporary medicine but it also leads to development of infections. The ability to produce biofilm by those yeasts plays an important role in the pathogenesis of candidiasis. Candida biofilm can form on the surface of plastic materials (silicon, polychloride vinyl, polymethacrylate methyl) used to catheters, drains and dentures production that is why it is a serious problem in case of fungal infections in patients who during the diagnosis and treatment have contact with biomaterials. The aim of the study was the assessment of ability to form biofilm on the surface of different biomaterials (latex silicon, polychloride vinyl, polystyrene, nylon and polymethacrylate methyl). 150 strains of Candida sp. were examined: 85 (56.7%) C. albicans and 65 (43.3%) C. non-albicans. The examined yeasts produced biofilm on the surface of polymethacrylate methyl in 39.3%, latex silicone in 38.7%, polychloride vinyl in 38.0%, polystyrene in 35.3% and nylon in 30.7%. Biofilm was most frequently produced by the strains of C. albicans, C. tropicalis, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei and C. lusitaniae species.

The ability of yeasts to form biofilm is believed to play an important role in patomechanism of fungal infection. Candida sp. is considered to form biofilm on surfaces of biomaterials used in production of catheters, drains and prosthesis. Therefore this may lead to serious problems in patients with biomaterials used for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of cell surface hydrophobicity (CSH) of Candida sp. on biofilm formation on different biomaterials. CSH was evaluated by two methods: Salt Aggregation Test (SAT) and Microbe Adhesion to Hydrocarbon Test (MATH). Biofilm formation on different biomaterials was measured by Richard's method after 72 hour incubation at 37 degrees C. Candida biofilm formation occurred more frequently in case of strains exhibiting hydrophobic than hydrophilic properties of cell surface. The statistically significant correlation between CSH and ability of biofilm formation on different biomaterials was observed (p0.05).

Fourty six isolates of K. pneumoniae were studied. The strains were cultured from different clinical specimens received from children hospitalized at University Hospital in Bydgoszcz. One strain was cultured from hospital environment. Production of ESBL was assessed using double disk synergy test and confirmatory test. The genomic DNA was extracted from the strains separated by PFGE after digesting with XbaI endonuclease. Production of ESBL was detected in 73.9% of K. pneumoniae isolates. Molecular typing results revealed a great genetic diversity among K. pneumoniae isolates. All repeated PFGE patterns were detected only in four K. pneumoniae isolates.

Quorum sensing (QS), or cell-to-cell communication in bacteria, is achieved through the production and subsequent response to the accumulation of extracellular signal molecules called autoinductors. The main role of QS is regulation of production of virulence factors in bacteria. Bacterial pathogenicity is often manifested by the expression of various cell-associated and secreted virulence factors, such as exoenzymes, toxins and biofilm. In bacteria, the expression of virulence factors is controlled coordinately by the global regulatory QS systems, which includes the AI-1/LuxIR-, AI-2/LuxS-, AI-3/QsC-, AIP/Agr-based systems. The regulation of production of virulence factors is extremely complex and many components influence it.

Many identification and relatedness studies methods had been commonly used for epidemiological studies in microbiological laboratories. Apart from phenotypic methods, genotypic are also often used. The aim of this study was to compare, obtained by PFGE chromosomal DNA patterns of methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis strains isolated from clinical material. 46 methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis strains were included in this study. Most of them were isolated from wound swabs (65.2%) and catheters (19.6%) from different surgical clinics (76.1%). To identify strains and receive biochemical profiles, ID 32 Staph tests and GPI cards of Vitek 1 system were used. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and Tenover et al. interpretation were used to compare chromosomal DNA patterns of examined strains. 44 and 42 PFGE patterns of chromosomal DNA were received, using visual interpretation classifying two pairs of strains as the same, two pairs as closely related and three pairs as probably related. Strains classified as identical and similar in visual evaluation were indistinguishable in Molecular Analyst DST interpretation, probably due to tolerance in bands location pattern. Strains probably related in visual interpretation represent at least 96% similarity in Molecular Analyst DST but different susceptibility and biochemical profiles obtained by ID 32 Staph and Vitek 1. PFGE analysis had foremost capacity to distinguish methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis strains using visual interpretation and Molecular Analyst DST (Bio-Rad) program and seems to be useful method in epidemiological studies. Strains with the same PFGE pattern, had different susceptibility and biochemical profiles.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of ciprofloxacin in a concentration of 0.25 microg/ml on the ability of synthesis of staphylococcin T (StT) Staphylococcus cohnii at 37 degrees C after 24 and 48 hours incubation. Ciprofloxacin in concentration of 0.25 microg/ml after 24 hours incubation inhibits antistaphylococcal activity StT produced by S. cohnii, while after 48 hour incubation, S. cohnii StT is excreted on the same level, in the presence and in the absence of ciprofloxacin.

The aim of the study was retrospective analysis of the species variety and the drug susceptibility to antifungal drugs of fungal strains isolated form blood samples of patients of the dr. A. Jurasz University Hospital in Bydgoszcz, in the years 2005-2008. A total of 79 strains patients was isolated from 68 during these four years. Above 96% strains belong to Candida spp., while three strains--to Cryptococcus spp. Almost 56% strains were isolated from more than one blood sample. In the first three years of analysis gradual increase of the number of cultured strains was observed, but in 2008 the decrease was noticed. The majority of strains were obtained from patients of the Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Clinic (32,9%) and the Pediatrics, Hematology and Oncology Clinic (24,1%). Every year the same species were the most frequently cultered: C. albicans, C. parapsilosis i C. glabrata. C albicans was found as the dominant species each year. Almost 32% of strains were isolated from blood samples obtained by peripheral insertion of a needle and by catheter as well. C. parapsilosis was the most frequently isolated species from those cases (48,0%). Among non-C. albicans species there were higher percentages of strains resistant to flucytosine, amphotericin B and fluconazole observed.

Many identification and typing methods has been commonly used in microbiological laboratories. Phenotypic methods are the most frequently used. The aim of this study was to compare biochemical profiles and susceptibility patterns ofmethicillin-resistant S. epidermidis strains isolated from clinical material. 46 methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis strains were included in this study. Most of them were isolated from wound swabs (65.2%) and catheters (19.6%) from different surgical clinics (76.1%). To receive biochemical profiles ID 32 Staph tests and GPI cards of Vitek 1 were used receiving 18 and 14 profiles, respectively. 28 susceptibility patterns were obtained by disc-diffusion method and automatic system Vitek 1 using GPS-527 cards. ID 32 Staph tests and Vitek GPI cards represented the lowest discriminate power for methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis strains and they should not be recommended for typing them. Estimation of the susceptibility patterns was far more sensitive among examined phenotypic methods. Groups of strains have often the same profile received in ID 32 Staph test and Vitek GPI cards but different susceptibility.

The aim of this study was evaluation of relationship between the ability of extracellular slime production and adhesive properties of E. coli strains. This study included 169 of E. coli strains isolated from urine and blood samples. All of these strains were isolated in the Clinical Microbiology Department of dr. A. Jurasz University Hospital in 2003-2006. After incubation in BHI and TSB medium adherence to polystyrene demonstrated 28 (16.6%) and 20 (11.8%) of E. coli strains, respectively. Strains incubated in TSB medium demonstrated higher production of extracellular slime than strains incubated in BHI medium. Non-adhering strains were producing more extracellular slime than adhering strains both after incubation in BHI as well as TSB medium.

Alcaligenes faecalis is an aerobic Gram-negative, non-fermentative rod. It's saprophyte of water and soil. It may be recovered from wet places of hospital environment. It is considered as an opportunistic pathogen. The aim of this review was evaluation of occurrence in clinical samples and susceptibility to antibiotics of 72 A. faecalis strains isolated in years 2003-2008. Over 30% of strains were isolated from patients in surgical ward, 19.6% from patients in outpatient clinic and almost 14% from patients in Department of Dermatology. 70.8% of strains were isolated from purulent material samples, whereas from urine--16.7% of strains. Nearly 88% out of examined strains were grown in mixed culture together with one (26.4%), two (32.0%), three (23.6%) or four (5.6%) microorganisms. All out of strains were sensitive to piperacyline, piperacyline/tazobactam and carbapenems. Sensitivity to aztreonam was observed at 22.2% of strains and to co-trimoxazole at 57.1% of strains.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of sub-MICs of selected antinbiotics on hydrophobic and adhering properties of Klebsiella pneumoniae rods. Cefotaxime, gentamicin, ciprofloxacin and tetracycyline were used. The hydrophobicity was evaluated according to the method of Rosenberg et al. The adhering properties were estimated by method of Christensen et al. The exposure of K. pneumoniae strains to subMICs of antibiotics reduced hydrophobicity and adhesion to polystyrene. All antibiotics used at 1/2 MICs significantly reduced the hydrophobicity and adhesion to polystyrene of K. pneumoniae strains.

The L-forms of bacteria have not been studied carefully yet, because it is difficult to detect them in Gram stain reactions by light microscopy. They can be cultured on specialized hypertonic medium. We don't find any reports about intentional in vitro induction and assessment of frequency of L-forms of S. epidermidis and S. haemolyticus on the medium.to evaluate the frequency of induction of L-forms by Coagulase Negative Staphylococci. This thesis examines, if the source of isolation from clinical materials has an influence on the frequency of occurrence of cell-wall deficient bacteria.52 strains of S. epidermidis, 52 strains of S. haemolyticus were analysed. After 13 S. epidermidis and S. haemolyticus strains were isolated from blood, urine, biomaterials, changed surface skin from patients of University Hospital in Bydgoszcz. S. epidermidis and S. haemolyticus strains were tested for induction of L-forms the methods of Owens (1988).It was observed that four (7.7%) strains of and S. haemolyticus transformed into L-forms. S. epidermidis strains isolated from blood induced L-forms (two strains), from urine and biomaterial (one strain). It was observed that strains of S. haemolyticus which have been isolated from blood and urine induced L-forms (three strains and one respectively).This study suggest that L-form induction in S. epidermidis and of S. haemolyticus strains is not correlated with sample origin from which the strains had been isolated. S. epidermidis and S. haemolyticus strains produce L-forms rarely.