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Antibiotic resistance is considered a widespread problem with global health implications, leading to increased patient morbidity and impacting the selection of effective antibiotics, consequently influencing patient recovery. This study aimed to assess antibiogram resistance patterns of bacterial records at the Islamic Hospital in Jordan using a retrospective study during the period 2020-2022. A total of 9369 samples obtained from different patients were cultured. Data were processed and analyzed with SPSS v.23.0. The results showed that 2841 (30.3%) samples were positive for bacterial infections. Microbial profiles of positive samples indicated the highest proportion for Escherichia coli, 39%, followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae 12% were the most frequent Gram-negative bacterial isolates, whereas Staphylococcus aureus 13% and Streptococcus pneumoniae 4% were the most common Gram-positive bacterial isolates. Interestingly, multidrug-resistant bacteria comprised 61.7% of the isolates. The percentage of multi-drug resistance in isolates of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae was 68.7%, 73.1%, and 72%, respectively. Escherichia coli was most resistant to ampicillin (89%) and most sensitive to imipenem (100%). Klebsiella pneumoniae showed a 100% sensitivity to meropenem but 49% resistance to ceftriaxone. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most sensitive to amikacin and colistin (86% and 100%, respectively). Staphylococcus aureus isolates have resistance rates of 78% for ciprofloxacin, 35.6% for clindamycin and an overall resistance rate of 68.7%. These findings indicate multiple resistance for isolated bacteria. Therefore, antimicrobial resistance should be monitored continuously, and patients should be treated based on anti-microbial susceptibility tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic resistance is considered a widespread problem with global health implications, leading to increased patient morbidity and impacting the selection of effective antibiotics, consequently influencing patient recovery. This study aimed to assess antibiogram resistance patterns of bacterial records at the Islamic Hospital in Jordan using a retrospective study during the period 2020-2022. A total of 9369 samples obtained from different patients were cultured. Data were processed and analyzed with SPSS v.23.0. The results showed that 2841 (30.3%) samples were positive for bacterial infections. Microbial profiles of positive samples indicated the highest proportion for Escherichia coli, 39%, followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae 12% were the most frequent Gram-negative bacterial isolates, whereas Staphylococcus aureus 13% and Streptococcus pneumoniae 4% were the most common Gram-positive bacterial isolates. Interestingly, multidrug-resistant bacteria comprised 61.7% of the isolates. The percentage of multi-drug resistance in isolates of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae was 68.7%, 73.1%, and 72%, respectively. Escherichia coli was most resistant to ampicillin (89%) and most sensitive to imipenem (100%). Klebsiella pneumoniae showed a 100% sensitivity to meropenem but 49% resistance to ceftriaxone. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most sensitive to amikacin and colistin (86% and 100%, respectively). Staphylococcus aureus isolates have resistance rates of 78% for ciprofloxacin, 35.6% for clindamycin and an overall resistance rate of 68.7%. These findings indicate multiple resistance for isolated bacteria. Therefore, antimicrobial resistance should be monitored continuously, and patients should be treated based on anti-microbial susceptibility tests.

Background: Bacterial respiratory infections are a major health concern, especially in underdeveloped and developing countries. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria in respiratory infections and assess the efficacy of antibiotics. Methods: A prospective, observational study was conducted from July 2010 to July 2011. Patients with respiratory infections were categorized by age, bacterial pathogen, disease type, and season of infection. Diagnostic methods, including throat swabs, blood cultures, and antibiograms, were used to identify pathogens and determine antibiotic resistance profiles. The infection rate was calculated using standard epidemiological formulas. Results: Gram-negative bacteria accounted for 84.7% of infections, with Acinetobacter baumannii (26.4%) being the most common pathogen. Gram-positive infections, primarily caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae (77%), were also prevalent. The highest infection rates were observed in the spring, particularly among children under one year and those aged 1-6 years. Pneumonia was the most common diagnosis (43.5%). Ampicillin resistance was widespread, but Acinetobacter baumannii, E. coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae showed sensitivity to Sulbactam, Cefoperazone, and Piperacillin/Tazobactam. Conclusion: Acinetobacter baumannii was the predominant cause of respiratory infections, especially in young children and during spring. Ampicillin resistance was common, but Sulbactam, Cefoperazone, and Piperacillin/Tazobactam were more effective. These findings highlight the importance of targeted antibiotic therapy, particularly for Gram-negative bacterial infections.

Abstract Objectives The objectives of this study are as follows: to assess the uropathogen antibiogram at two tertiary hospitals in Victoria to look at the difference in susceptibility patterns, to assess whether national guideline recommendations were applicable and to assess the feasibility of local antibiogram analysis to guide development of hospital‐specific guidelines for empirical treatment of urosepsis and for pre‐operative prophylaxis for urological procedures. Patients and methods All positive urine cultures analysed at Barwon Health and Monash Health, two tertiary hospitals in regional and metropolitan Victoria, Australia, respectively, between January 2019 and December 2020 were retrospectively identified. Data obtained included the organism cultured and their susceptibility profiles. Results Three thousand seven hundred and seventy‐seven positive urine cultures from Barwon Health and 6821 from Monash Health were identified. The most common uropathogen was Escherichia coli, which was cultured in 53.4% and 59.1% of urine cultures at Barwon Health and Monash Health, respectively. The main differences observed were in Enterococcus spp., which were cultured in 8.8% and 4.9% of cultures at Barwon Health and Monash Health, respectively, and Candida spp. in 4.2% and 1.5% of cultures at Barwon Health and Monash Health, respectively. The largest differences were found in fluoroquinolone resistance with 12.1% of organisms resistant to ciprofloxacin at Barwon Health compared to 6.4% at Monash Health and 7.1% of organisms resistant to vancomycin compared to 20.1% at Barwon Health and Monash Health, respectively. Conclusion This study demonstrates that there is considerable variability in the uropathogens and their antimicrobial susceptibility profile in two large health services in the same state. We recommend that each centre performs regular analysis of their uropathogen antibiogram to develop local guidelines for treatment and pre‐operative prophylaxis for uropathogens.

Background: Pantoea species, traditionally considered opportunistic pathogens, have emerged as significant causes of infections, particularly in neonatal and immune compromised populations. This study aims to investigate the prevalence, clinical impact, and antimicrobial resistance patterns of Pantoea species over a five-year period in a tertiary care center located in the Konkan region of the Western Ghats, Maharashtra. Material and Methods: Detailed records of 40 Pantoea isolates, primarily from blood cultures, were gathered from various clinical samples. The study assessed the yearly trend of Pantoea infectios, identified associated risk factors, and outlined antimicrobial susceptibility profile. Results: The majority of isolates (87%) were from blood samples, with significant occurrences in neonates with underline predisposing factors like low birth weight, intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), and meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS). The study observed a marked decrease in cases during the COVID-19 lockdown period (2020-2021), followed by a resurgence in 2022. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed decreased sensitivity to third-generation cephalosporins Piperacillin Tazobactam, and Meropenem, indicating a trend towards multidrug resistance. Conclusion: The finding underscore the emerging threat of Pantoea infections and the need for vigilant antimicrobial stewardship. Monitoring environmental factors, such as the use of Pantoea species as biofertilizers and traditional practices like giving rice water to newborns, is crucial to prevent potential large-scale outbreaks. Futures sequencing based studies are recommended to gain a deeper understanding of the epidemiology and resistance mechanisms of Pantoea species in this region.

Salmonella infection in Poultry birds may lead to food poisoning in human beings. Salmonellae are pathogenic, causing enteritis in birds, and others. This study aims to determine the presence of Salmonella spp. isolates with detailed characterization, in ducks and associated environments from a few districts of South Bengal (India). A total of 236 samples (cloacal swabs of ducks, samples from the environment, and duck eggs) were collected, and Salmonella spp. was isolated following standard methodology with molecular confirmation of the isolates done by PCR. Standard methods were followed in all steps of the study. An in vitro antibiogram of the isolates positive for ESBL and biofilm formation was done against 12 antibiotics commonly used in veterinary medicine. Twenty-seven (11.44%) Salmonella enterica strains were detected with environmental samples to show the highest prevalence (13.9%) among other sources. Out of 27, 18 (66.67%) Salmonella spp. isolates were positive for either ESBL or ACBL production in vitro in a double-disc diffusion assay. Twelve (44.44%) isolates showed the presence of two major ESBL genes (blaCTX-Mand blaTEM) but no blaSHV whereas the blaAmpC was found in 11 (40.74%) isolates. The virulence gene (invA) was noticed in 12 (44.44%) isolates, whereas 16 (59.25%) isolates were revealed to have at least one of the biofilm-associated protein-encoding genes. All 12 selected Salmonella enterica isolates were identified with 100% resistance to ampicillin, followed by ertapenem and cefotaxime (both 83%), ceftazidime (75%), etc. In contrast, drugs like chloramphenicol (67%), cotrimoxazole (50%), gentamicin (33%) etc. were sensitive against these isolates.

Abstract Background Nosocomial infections are a global problem in hospitals all around the world. It is considered a major health problem, especially in developing countries. The increase in the patient’s stay in hospitals has increased the mortality rate, and consequently, the costs drastically increase. The main purpose of using disinfectants in the hospital environment is to reduce the risk of nosocomial infections. Ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (EDTA) causes lysis and increases susceptibility to antimicrobial agents in the planktonic form of bacteria. This substance affects the permeability of the outer membrane of bacteria. It also prevents the formation of biofilms by bacteria. Materials and methods In the current study, 120 isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) were confirmed by phenotypic and genotypic methods. Antibiogram was performed and then the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of isolates against 5% sodium hypochlorite, ethanol %70, sayasept-HP 2%, chlorhexidine 2%, dettol 4/8% were evaluated. In addition, the disinfectant effect was re-evaluated with the mixture of EDTA solution. All isolates were examined for biofilm presence by crystal violet staining method in triplicates and repeated three times for each strain. Also for all isolates detection of efflux pump genes (Qac-E, qacE-Δ1, SUG-E) by PCR technique was done. Results Antibiogram results of A. baumannii showed that 6.7% were Multi-drug-resistant (MDR), and 89.2% were Extensively drug-resistant (XDR) isolates. The highest effect of disinfectants was related to 5% sodium hypochlorite, and the least effect was 70% ethanol. EDTA increases the efficacy of selected disinfectants significantly. The highest prevalence of the efflux pump genes was related to SUG-E (95%) and Qac-E (91.7%), and, the qacE-Δ1 gene with 12.5%. The biofilm production rate was 91.3% among all isolates. Conclusion The best and safest way to disinfect hospital floors and surfaces is to choose the right disinfectants, and learn how to use them properly. In this study, a mixture of disinfectants and EDTA had a significant effect on bactericidal activity. it was found that improper use of disinfectants, especially the use of sub-inhibitory dilutions, increases the resistance of bacteria to disinfectants.

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of pathogenic Escherichia (E.) coli causing diarrhea and urinary tract infection (UTI) in patients admitted for treatment in selected health care facilities in Odisha, an eastern Indian State. Methods: A total of 189 rectal swabs from patients with diarrhea and 297 urine samples from patients with UTI were collected from selected health care facilities. E. coli isolates were phenotypically confirmed using MacConkey agar, MacConkey sorbitol agar and blood agar along with biochemical tests. These phenotypically confirmed E. coli isolates were investigated genotypically for known pathogenic E. coli via multiplex PCR. Finally, the pathogenic E. coli was subjected to antibiotic sensitivity test. Results: Culture of 189 rectal swabs and 297 urine samples revealed 46 (24.3%) diarrheagenic E. coli (DEC) and 36 (12.1%) uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC). PCR analysis of DEC identified 27 (14.3%) enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), 8 (4.2%) enteropathogenic E. coli, 10 (5.3%) enteroaggregative E. coli and 1 (0.5%) Enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) in diarrhea patients and 5 (1.7%) ETEC, 7 (2.4%) enteroaggregative E. coli, 11 (3.7%) EHEC O157:H7 and 1 (0.3%) EHEC non-O157:H7 in UTI patients. DEC and UPEC exhibited multidrug resistance with a high rate of resistance to commonly prescribed antibiotics. A high frequency of ETEC causing diarrhea, atypical enteropathogenic E. coli harboring the eae gene was found among children with acute diarrhea, and ETEC (est+) and EHEC O157:H7 were detected in UTI patients along with high antibiotic resistance among DEC and UPEC were important findings. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report the prevalence of DEC and UPEC in patients admitted to hospital in Odisha, India, revealing a high rate of antimicrobial resistance.

Background: There is a global concern regarding increasing colonization and/or infection of paediatric burns patients with multi-drug-resistant organisms, especially in Africa. Surveillance of antimicrobial resistant patterns enables clinicians to opt for the most appropriate empiric antimicrobial agent according to the unit’s susceptibility profile. Objective: This study sought to compile unit-specific antibiograms comparing the organism prevalence and their antimicrobial resistance trends in the paediatric burns unit, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH) from January 2015 to December 2019. Methods: A retrospective, laboratory-based review was conducted of bacterial and fungal isolates including antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) data from blood cultures and tissue samples. Enterobacterales, non-fermenters, gram-positive organisms, and yeasts were analysed as a percentage of total positive blood cultures comparing 2015–2017 to 2018–2019 data. Analysis of antimicrobial resistance trends was performed for extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs), carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE), extensively-drug-resistant (XDR) Acinetobacter baumannii, and meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) for the years 2015, 2017, and 2019. Results: A total of 1243 blood culture isolates were studied with A.baumannii (208/1243;17 %), coagulase negative staphylococci (141/1243; 11 %) and Candida auris (53/1243; 4 %) representing the predominant gram-negative bacteria, gram-positive bacteria, and yeast, respectively. A significant decrease in ESBLs (p = 0.00) was noted with a rise in CREs (p = 0.00) during the study period. Majority of the A. baumannii were XDR (≥77 %) despite an appreciable decrease. A notable decrease in MRSA (p = 0.00) isolates was observed. Pseudomonas aeruginosa (72/275; 26 %) was the leading organism recovered from a total of 275 tissue isolates. Conclusion: The results of this study encourage review of the current antimicrobial choices in the unit for empiric antibacterial cover. Due to the low numbers of yeasts, we cannot comment on the institution of early antifungal strategies. We support reinforced infection prevention and control practices as well as antimicrobial stewardship initiatives.

Background: Nosocomial infections are a global problem in hospitals all around the world. It is considered a major health problem, especially in developing countries. The increase in the patient's stay in hospitals has increased the mortality rate, and consequently, the costs drastically increase. The main purpose of using disinfectants in the hospital environment is to reduce the risk of nosocomial infections. Ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (EDTA) causes lysis and increases susceptibility to antimicrobial agents in the planktonic form of bacteria. This substance affects the permeability of the outer membrane of bacteria. It also prevents the formation of biofilms by bacteria. Materials and methods: In the current study, 120 isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) were confirmed by phenotypic and genotypic methods. Antibiogram was performed and then the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of isolates against 5% sodium hypochlorite, ethanol %70, sayasept-HP 2%, chlorhexidine 2%, dettol 4/8% were evaluated. In addition, the disinfectant effect was re-evaluated with the mixture of EDTA solution. All isolates were examined for biofilm presence by crystal violet staining method in triplicates and repeated three times for each strain. Also for all isolates detection of efflux pump genes (Qac-E, qacE-Δ1, SUG-E) by PCR technique was done. Results: Antibiogram results of A. baumannii showed that 6.7% were Multi-drug-resistant (MDR), and 89.2% were Extensively drug-resistant (XDR) isolates. The highest effect of disinfectants was related to 5% sodium hypochlorite, and the least effect was 70% ethanol. EDTA increases the efficacy of selected disinfectants significantly. The highest prevalence of the efflux pump genes was related to SUG-E (95%) and Qac-E (91.7%), and, the qacE-Δ1 gene with 12.5%. The biofilm production rate was 91.3% among all isolates. Conclusion: The best and safest way to disinfect hospital floors and surfaces is to choose the right disinfectants, and learn how to use them properly. In this study, a mixture of disinfectants and EDTA had a significant effect on bactericidal activity. it was found that improper use of disinfectants, especially the use of sub-inhibitory dilutions, increases the resistance of bacteria to disinfectants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food-borne Vibrio parahaemolyticus has global economic and public health concern. The frequent way for humans to contract these bacteria is through seafood. In this study, 350 samples were analysed for the presence of Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Of those, 40 samples were found positive for the bacteria. Ten different antibiotics were used to test the antibiotic sensitivity of these 40 isolates, and they exhibited variable susceptibility pattern. The isolates showed 100% resistance to penicillin G followed by 80% and 75% resistance to ampicillin and streptomycin, respectively. The isolates were highly sensitive to ciprofloxacin (97.5%), followed by trimethoprim (90%), gentamicin (90%), chloramphenicol (87.5%), amikacin (80%), tetracycline (65%) and cephalothin (65%). Of the 40 isolates, 45.0%, 22.5%, 5.0%, 7.5% isolates were found resistant to 3, 4, 5 and 6 antibiotics, respectively. Multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index value above 0.2 was shown by 80% of the isolates. The presence of MAR highlights the essential need to determine drug susceptibility and monitor antimicrobial resistance profiles. This is crucial for enhancing food safety and protecting public health. By identifying resistant strains, we can develop more effective treatment strategies and implement measures to control the spread of resistant pathogens, thus preserving antibiotic efficacy and ensuring public well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infection is a common cause of mortality within intensive care units (ICUs). Antibiotic resistance patterns and culture data are used to create antibiograms. Knowledge of antibiograms facilitates guiding empiric therapies and reduces mortality. Most major hospitals utilize data collection to create hospital-wide antibiograms. Previous studies have shown significant differences in susceptibility patterns between hospital wards and ICUs. We hypothesize that institutional or combined ICU antibiograms are inadequate to account for differences in susceptibility for patients in individual ICUs. Methods: Culture and susceptibility data were reviewed over a 1-year period for 13 bacteria in the following ICUs: Surgical/Trauma, Medical, Neuroscience, Burn, and Emergency department. Antibiotic management decisions are made by individual teams. Results: Nine species had sufficient data for inclusion into an All-ICU antibiogram. E coli and S aureus were the most common isolates. Seven species had significant differences in susceptibility patterns between ICUs. E cloacae showed higher rates of resistance to multiple antibiotics in the STICU than other ICUs. P aeruginosa susceptibility rates in the NSICU and BICU were 88% and 92%, respectively, compared to 60% and 55% in the STICU and MICU. Cephalosporins and Aztreonam had reduced efficacy against E coli in the NSICU, however remain effective in other ICUs. Conclusions: The results of this study show that different ICUs do have variability in antibiotic susceptibility patterns within a single hospital. While this only represents a single institution, it shows that the use of hospital-wide antibiograms is inadequate for creating empiric antibiotic protocols within individual ICUs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase in fluoroquinolone (FQ)-resistant Escherichia coli (EC) is a serious global problem. In addition, much of acute uncomplicated cystitis (AUC) cases are caused by EC. FQs have been selected for the treatment of cystitis in outpatients, and there is concern about treatment failure. It is therefore necessary to select appropriate antimicrobials to spare FQs. However, there are few reported effective antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) for outpatients. We aimed to establish the effective ASP for outpatients diagnosed with AUC caused by EC, to spare the use of FQs, and to explore optimal oral antimicrobials for AUC. The study subjects were outpatients treated for AUC caused by extended-spectrum β-lactamase-non-producing EC (non-ESBL-EC). Based on the antibiogram results, we recommended cefaclor (CCL) as the initial treatment for AUC, and educated clinical pharmacists who also worked together to advocate for CCL or cephalexin (CEX) prescriptions. FQ usages decreased, and cephalosporin (Ceph) prescriptions increased in all medical departments. The Ceph group (n = 114; CCL = 60, CEX = 54) in the non-FQ group had fewer treatment failures than the FQ group (n = 86) (12.3% vs. 31.4%). Cephs, including CCL and CEX, were effective treatments for AUC caused by non-ESBL-EC. Antimicrobial selection based on antibiogram results and the practice of an ASP in collaboration with clinical pharmacists were useful for optimizing antimicrobial therapy in outpatients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic misuse in Romania has exacerbated the issue of antibiotic resistance, as patients often use antibiotics without proper medical consultation. This study aimed to assess the resistance of prevalent bacteria to different antibiotics. In this observational study conducted over six months, we analyzed 31 pediatric patients aged from 12 days to 13 years using the disk diffusion method. We identified 31 bacterial isolates, including 8 Gram-negative and 8 Gram-positive strains, with the most common being Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pneumoniae, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus species, and Elizabethkingia meningoseptica. Our findings revealed that the most effective antibiotics were linezolid, ertapenem, and teicoplanin. In contrast, nearly all tested bacteria exhibited resistance to penicillin, followed by oxacillin and ampicillin. Resistance to cephalosporins varied with generation, showing higher resistance to lower-generation cephalosporins. The study highlights significant antibiotic resistance among common bacterial pathogens in Romanian pediatric patients, emphasizing the urgent need for controlled antibiotic use and alternative treatment strategies to combat this growing issue. Effective antibiotics such as linezolid and ertapenem offer potential solutions, whereas reliance on penicillin and lower-generation cephalosporins is increasingly futile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine clinical mastitis is an economically important disease in dairy industry worldwide resulting in reduction of milk yield and quality. Among mycotic mastitis, Candida spp. are commonly occurring opportunistic mycosis in immunocompromised animals. The microorganism's causing mastitis has high zoonotic potential and has been linked with rapid growth and introduction of antimicrobial resistance between animals and humans. The present study was conducted to isolate and identify the common pathogenic Candida spp. from bovine mastitis cases in India. The isolates were phenotypically characterized by culturing on Sabouraud's dextrose agar, Hichrome Candida differential agar and germ tube production test. Antibiogram was also performed to determine their antifungal activities. The phenotypically positive isolates were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and genetically analyzed by targeting 18S-ITS1-5.8S-ITS2-28S region specific for Candida spp. and identified the yeast at the species level. The antibiogram showed the isolates were highly sensitive with ketoconazole, clotrimazole and miconazole. The PCR assay identified C. lusitaniae and C. tropicalis based on the two distinctive amplicon sizes (592bp and 737bp) respectively. Also, the sequence analysis and phylogeny confirmed C. lusitaniae in six sequences and C. tropicalis in one sequence. It is worth noting that in this study, the species identification was consistent among PCR and genetic analysis. Therefore, the PCR based identification system of the fungal species performed in this study could be an efficient and time saving tool for early diagnosis of clinical mastitis in milch animal, which allows prompt control and application of speedy effective treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, mastitis is one of the most common diseases in breeding dairy cattle. Treatment with conventional antibiotics is ineffective because many pathogens are resistant. This study aims to investigate the presence of mastitis in milk samples from cows exhibiting clinical symptoms, along with assessing the sensitivity of the bacteria isolated from these samples to various antibiotics. The research involved analysing 70 milk samples obtained from cows with clinical mastitis at the Veterinary Department, Banas Dairy, Palanpur. From these samples, a total of 12 different bacterial strains were identified. Identification methods included conventional biochemical techniques and MALDI-TOF analysis. Furthermore, the study evaluated the antibacterial properties of Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs), Triphala nanoparticles, and Chitosan nanoparticles, the nanoparticles were characterized by SEM and FTIR. The mean size of chitosan, Copper and Triphala were 380 nm, 400 nm and 400 nm with zeta potential + 44.3 mv, -42.2 mv and -27.5 mv respectively. These nanoparticles were explored as potential alternatives for mastitis treatment in cows. The research also aimed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of CuO-NPs, Triphala NPs, and Chitosan NPs against the bacterial strains isolated from the milk samples. By examining the efficacy of these nanoparticles and their MIC against mastitis-causing bacteria, this study contributes to the ongoing efforts to find effective treatments for mastitis in dairy cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the susceptibilities of pathogens isolated from cultures within the first 7 days of admission to the burn center and in the absence of healthcare-associated infection risk factors (HAIRF) to determine if current empiric antibiotics can be narrowed for refinement of an empiric antibiotic prescribing pathway according to the suspected source. A 3-year sample of patients and cultures was utilized in hopes of obtaining at least 30 isolates of the most common pathogens and their respective susceptibilities. A total of 268 clinically relevant (e.g. deemed infectious, versus colonization) pathogens were included in the final sample with sources including wounds, respiratory, blood, urine, and bone. Of the 268 pathogens included, 45% were Gram-negative and 69% of all pathogens were isolated from wound cultures. The existing empiric pathway, vancomycin plus cefepime, covered 98% and 84% of all Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens, respectively. In patients without HAIRF, coverage rose to 98% and 90%, respectively. Initial use of vancomycin and cefepime remains adequate for pathogens isolated within 1 week of admission in patients without HAIRF. For pneumonias, a narrower spectrum beta-lactam would not sufficiently cover respiratory pathogens isolated within the first week of admission. Regarding early wound infections, difficult-to-treat pathogens remain as a rare isolate of wound cultures within 1 week of admission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the presence of Pseudomonas anguilliseptica, one hundred specimens of sea bream (Sparus aurata) and sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) were collected alongside water samples during episodes of widespread fish mortality in marine fish farms located in the northern region of Egypt. This study documented the clinical and postmortem manifestations observed in moribund sea bream and sea bass, thus providing evidence for the occurrence of a septicemic-hemorrhagic bacterial disease. Fourteen strains of P. anguilliseptica were isolated and characterized from both sea bream and sea bass specimens. The conventional bacteriology methods were employed to retrieve the causative bacterial agent and subsequently evaluate its phenotypic traits. Moreover, sequencing of the 16 S rRNA was conducted to characterize the identified microorganism. Furthermore, multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA) was employed to confirm the identity of P. anguilliseptica and elucidate the phylogenetic interrelationship among various strains. Regardless of their source or the fish species from which the strains were obtained, these isolates showed a high level of phenotypic homogeneity. MLSA displayed a genetic homogeneity among isolates despite their different geographic origins. Antibiogram revealed the sensitivity of some P. anguilliseptica strains for antibiotics (florfenicol, trimethoprim, sulfamethoxazole, cefotaxime, and ciprofloxacin). Isolated strains were harboring some antibiotic-resistant genes, with the most prevalent being tetA gene, followed by ermB gene. Water physico-chemical parameters (low temperature and salinity fluctuation) were convenient for bacterial growth. In addition, P. anguilliseptica strains could resist several antibiotics and harbored antibiotic-resistant genes, resulting in difficulties in fish treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of local antibiotic resistance data provided by antibiograms (cumulative-antimicrobial-susceptibility-tests) can assist prescribers to make appropriate empirical antibiotic choices. This study explored the perceptions and knowledge of key stakeholders about the role of antibiograms in residential aged care facilities (RACF), and to understand barriers and enablers of antibiogram development and implementation in this setting. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with aged-care health professionals ('end-users') and antibiogram content experts. This study was conducted in Queensland, Australia in 2023. Using qualitative techniques, framework thematic analysis was used to identify themes, which were mapped to the 'Integrated Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services' framework constructs. Twenty interviews were conducted comprising of five 'content-experts' and fifteen 'end-users'. Five themes were identified which indicated lack of knowledge about how to use antibiograms, and its availability. Potential insufficient data was the primary issue identified by content experts with regards to feasibility of annual antibiograms. Pragmatic solutions were offered, such as pooling pathology data from facilities in the same geographical location, extending antibiogram data to two-or three-yearly, or utilising local hospital antibiograms. Presenting antibiogram data in a mode and format suiting preferences of individual users would encourage uptake and improve usability. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) champions and pharmacists were highlighted as drivers of educating and promoting antibiogram use. Clinicians recognised the potential role of antibiograms in improving empirical antibiotic prescribing choices. Establishing their baseline knowledge provides an essential starting point for the education needs of this group. This study provides practical recommendations regarding the presentation of antibiograms to ensure appropriate use and uptake as an AMS tool in RACFs. Pragmatic solutions suggested to overcome challenges of antibiogram development for RACFs should be applied and evaluated to determine feasibility of RACF-specific antibiograms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Typhoid fever caused by Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi (S. typhi) continues to pose a significant risk to public health in developing countries, including Pakistan. This study investigated the epidemiological factors linked to suspected and confirmed S. typhi infections in Peshawar's hospital population. Methodology: A total of 5735 blood samples of patients with suspected enteric fever were collected from September 2022 to November 2023. S. typhi infection was confirmed using microbiological culture of blood samples, biochemical-based tests, and DNA-sequencing methods. Drug sensitivity testing on cultures was conducted as per the CLSI guidelines. Chi-square tests were used to analyze the clinical and epidemiologic characteristics of 5735 samples stratified by S. typhi infection status, and risk factors were assessed by applying logistic regression models to estimate odds ratios (ORs). Results: The number of confirmed typhoid fever cases in this hospital-based study population was 691 (/5735, 12.0%), more prevalent in males (447/3235 13.8%) and children (0–11 years) (429/2747, 15.6%). Compared to children, the risk of S. typhi infection was lower in adolescence (adjusted OR = 0.52; 95% CI: 0.42–0.66), adulthood (19–59 years; aOR = 0.30; 95% CI: 0.25–0.38), and older adulthood (aOR = 0.08; 95% CI: 0.04–0.18) (p < 0.001). Compared to males, the risk of S. typhi infection was lower in females (aOR = 0.67; 95% CI = 0.56–0.80; p = 0.002). Living in a rural residence (compared to urban) was associated with a higher risk of infection (aOR = 1.38; 95% CI: 1.16–1.63; p = 0.001), while access to a groundwater source (compared to municipal water supply) led to a lower risk (aOR = 0.56; 95% CI: 0.43–0.73; p = 0.002). Vaccination demonstrated a robust protective effect (aOR = 0.069; 95% CI = 0.04–0.11, p = 0.002). For those with typhoid infections, clinical biomarker analysis revealed the presence of leucopenia (65/691, 9.4%), thrombocytopenia (130/691, 18.8%), and elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (402/691, 58.2%) and C-reactive protein (CRP) (690/691, 99.9%) levels. Worryingly, among the positive S. typhi isolates, there was a high prevalence of drug resistance (653/691), including multidrug-resistant (MDR 82/691, 11.9%) and extensively drug-resistant types (XDR, 571/691, 82.6%). Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of age, sex, locality, water source, and vaccination status in shaping the epidemiological landscape of S. typhi in the Peshawar district. It implies that expanding vaccination coverage to the broader population of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, particularly in the district of Peshawar, would be beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae are two important commensals with pathogenic potentiality in animals and birds, causing intestinal and extra-intestinal infections. These are somewhat zoonotic too via different routes. So, the present study was undertaken to investigate the prevalence of these two bacteria from cloaca and environment of ducks from different districts of West Bengal, followed by detailed characterization and antibiogram. Methods: Around 197 duck and environmental samples were collected from different districts of West Bengal. E. coli and K. pneumoniae were isolated from collected samples as per standard methods followed by serotyping of the E. coli isolates. The detection of ESBL/ACBL producing isolates was done both phenotypically and genotypically by detecting the presence of antibiotic-resistant genes. Virulence property and biofilm-producing ability of these isolates were also studied. Antibiogram of the ESBL and biofilm positive isolates were done using common 12 antibiotics by disc diffusion method. Result: A total of 134 (68.02%) Escherichia coli and 33 (16.75%) Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates were recovered and confirmed by PCR. The prevalence of E. coli and K. pneumoniae in cloacal swabs were less in comparison to the environmental samples (72.09% and 20.93%). Approx. 79.85% E. coli and 72.73% K. pneumoniae isolates were found to be the ESBL/ACBL producers in vitro. E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates possessed all major antibiotic-resistant genes with the blaAmpC (64.18% and 48.48%) being the most prevalent one. Twenty three (17.16%) E. coli isolates were found positive for the virulence genes, of which stx1 (39.13%) was the most common one as detected by multiplex PCR. No virulence gene was found in K. pneumoniae isolates. Ninety one (67.91%) E. coli and 26 (78.79%) K. pneumoniae isolates possessed the biofilm-producing genes. All the ESBL and biofilms producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates showed 100% - 95.24% resistance to ampicillin. A high percentage of resistances were also seen against cefotaxime, ticarcillin/ clavulanic acid, ertapenem, ceftazidime, norfloxacin and ciprofloxacin, which may be due to several reasons. Maximum overall sensitivity was detected against chloramphenicol, co-trimoxazole and gentamicin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims & Background: There is a lack of studies which determine the clinical outcomes and the characteristics of Gram-negative bacterial bloodstream infections (GNBSI) from India. In this retrospective study, we determine the risk factors for mortality in patients admitted at a tertiary care hospital with GNBSIs with focus on carbapenem resistant GNBSIs. Materials and Methods: A total of 375 patients admitted to the hospital from August 2020 to May 2022, with monomicrobial GNBSI were included in the study. The baseline characteristics of the patients were compared based on the carbapenem susceptibility of the pathogen. The independent risk factors for mortality were assessed at 7 days and 30 days since the GNBSI episode by Cox proportional hazards model. A sub-analysis was also performed in the subset of patients with event of intensive care unit (ICU) admission during the hospital stay. Results: Carbapenem resistant GNBSIs were detected in 36.53% (137/375) patients. Overall crude in-hospital mortality rate was 40.8% (153/375) among patients. The most common pathogens isolated were Escherichia coli (28.0%,105/375), Klebsiella pneumoniae (26.7%,100/375) and Acinetobacter species (17.3%, 65/375). Conclusion: Use of immunosuppressive drugs, ICU admission and need for vasopressors were independent risk factors for mortality. Among the 232 patients with ICU admission, carbapenem resistant Acinetobacter GNBSIs (CRA-GNBSIs) and Carbapenem resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae GNBSIs (CRKP-GNBSIs) were independent risk factors for mortality. There is a need for monitoring the carbapenem resistance and measures need to be taken to reduce it. Similarly, measures also need to be taken for early identification and effective treatment of GNBSIs to facilitate better outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections represent a critical public health concern, highlighting the need for the development of effective antibiotics. Cefiderocol demonstrated potent in vitro activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, particularly in strains that are resistant to other drugs. However, concerns regarding the emergence of drug-resistant strains persist. This study, conducted with 109 carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains from the Spanish Hospital (Dr. Balmis, Alicante). The study evaluated susceptibility to cefiderocol in comparison to alternative antibiotics and including their susceptibility to bacterial inoculum, while assessing various testing methods. Our findings revealed high susceptibility to cefiderocol against carbapenem-resistant strains, with only 2 of 109 strains exhibiting resistance. Comparative analysis demonstrated superiority of cefiderocol towards alternative antibiotics. Both the E-test and disk-diffusion methods showed 100% concordance with the microdilution method in classifying strains as susceptible or resistant. However, 4.6% (5/109) of disc zone diameters fell within the technical uncertainty zone, so the E-test technique was found to be more useful in routine clinical practice. Additionally, escalating bacterial inoculum correlated with decreases in vitro activity, so this parameter should be adjusted very carefully in in vivo studies. This study underscores cefiderocol's potential as a therapeutic option for carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. However, the emergence of drug-resistant strains emphasizes the critical need for a wise use of antibiotics and a continuous monitoring of resistance to antibiotics. Based on our in vitro data, further investigation concerning the impact of bacterial inoculum on drug efficacy is warranted in order to detect resistance mechanisms and optimize treatment strategies, thereby mitigating the risk of resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims & Background: There is a lack of studies which determine the clinical outcomes and the characteristics of Gram-negative bacterial bloodstream infections (GNBSI) from India. In this retrospective study, we determine the risk factors for mortality in patients admitted at a tertiary care hospital with GNBSIs with focus on carbapenem resistant GNBSIs. Materials and Methods: A total of 375 patients admitted to the hospital from August 2020 to May 2022, with monomicrobial GNBSI were included in the study. The baseline characteristics of the patients were compared based on the carbapenem susceptibility of the pathogen. The independent risk factors for mortality were assessed at 7 days and 30 days since the GNBSI episode by Cox proportional hazards model. A sub-analysis was also performed in the subset of patients with event of intensive care unit (ICU) admission during the hospital stay. Results: Carbapenem resistant GNBSIs were detected in 36.53% (137/375) patients. Overall crude in-hospital mortality rate was 40.8% (153/375) among patients. The most common pathogens isolated were Escherichia coli (28.0%,105/375), Klebsiella pneumoniae (26.7%,100/375) and Acinetobacter species (17.3%, 65/375). Conclusion: Use of immunosuppressive drugs, ICU admission and need for vasopressors were independent risk factors for mortality. Among the 232 patients with ICU admission, carbapenem resistant Acinetobacter GNBSIs (CRA-GNBSIs) and Carbapenem resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae GNBSIs (CRKP-GNBSIs) were independent risk factors for mortality. There is a need for monitoring the carbapenem resistance and measures need to be taken to reduce it. Similarly, measures also need to be taken for early identification and effective treatment of GNBSIs to facilitate better outcomes.

ABSTRACT Rapid microbiological diagnosis of the antibiotic susceptibility of Gram-negative bacilli is a priority in clinical microbiology, especially in cases of bacteremia. The rapid advancement of antimicrobial resistance proposes a challenge for empirical antibiotic therapy and shows the need for fast antibiotic susceptibility diagnostics to guide treatments. The QuickMIC System (Gradientech AB, Uppsala, Sweden) is a recently developed rapid diagnostic tool for antibiotic susceptibility testing. Our study evaluates a rapid phenotypic system (QuickMIC) that provides information on the susceptibility of 12 antibiotics against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, Enterobacter cloacae, Proteus spp., Citrobacter spp., and Serratia marcescens. A total of 816 antibiotic/microorganism combinations were tested, resulting in eight discrepancies. The concordance between the antibiotics offered by QuickMIC and reference methods (MicroScan WalkAway plus system, Beckman Coulter; Etest (BioMerieux microdilution system (Bruker); Real-time PCR (GeneXpert, Cepheid); and immunochromatography (Biotech) was 99.02%. Time elapsed to obtain a valid minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) was between 2 and 4 h. The QuickMIC system allows for the early adjustment of antibiotic treatment in these infections. Given the existing limitations of currently available rapid methods, its clinical utility is particularly relevant in the management of P. aeruginosa infections and AmpC-producing Enterobacterales. The use of rapid methods can help diversify antibiotic use and reduce carbapenem consumption.IMPORTANCEThe rapid diagnosis of antibiotic sensitivity in Gram-negative bacilli is of paramount importance in clinical microbiology, particularly in cases of bacteremia. The escalating challenge of antimicrobial resistance underscores the need for expeditious antibiotic susceptibility diagnostics to guide empirical antibiotic therapy effectively. In light of this, we present our study that evaluates the QuickMIC System, a recently developed rapid diagnostic antibiogram. QuickMIC System, offers a novel approach to phenotypic testing, providing information on the activity of 12 antibiotics against key pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, Enterobacter cloacae, Proteus spp., Citrobacter spp., and Serratia marcescens. Our investigation involved testing a total of 816 antibiotic/microorganism combinations. The study demonstrated an impressive 99.02% concordance between the QuickMIC System and the reference methods, with only eight discrepancies observed. The time to actionable minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranged between 2 and 4 h, highlighting the system's efficiency in providing rapid results.

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt • This study investigates the bacteriological quality and antibiogram profiles of water samples from hospitals in Port Harcourt Metropolis, highlighting significant contamination and multi-drug resistance among isolated bacterial species. • The research identifies the presence of various bacteria, including Staphylococcus sp., Bacillus sp., and Klebsiella sp., with notable resistance to commonly used antibiotics, underscoring the potential public health risks associated with hospital water sources. • This study's findings emphasize the need for rigorous water treatment protocols to ensure safe consumption and reduce the risk of antibiotic-resistant infections in hospital settings. Full Abstract Water is vital for life, and water void of bacterial contamination is vital for hospital consumption and use. This study aimed to determine the bacteriological quality and antibiogram of different water samples in some hospitals within Port Harcourt Metropolis. Water samples were collected in different hospitals in Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. Based on water dispensers, outdoor taps, washing hand faucets, and faucets in the toilet and theatre. The bacteriological quality of the water samples, coagulase, haemolysis, biofilm, starch, and antibiogram were determined using standard microbiological procedures. The mean range of the total heterotrophic bacterial, staphylococcal, faecal coliform, and total coliform counts of the water samples were 8.5±0.7×105 to 3.8±2.1×107, 1.2±0.2 to 2.8±0.3×105, 0.0±0.0 to 8.0±4.2×103 and 0.0±0.0 to 1.1±0.1×105 CFU/mL, respectively. The prevalence of the isolated bacteria is Staphylococcus sp (17.5%), Bacillus sp (12.5%), Enterobacter sp. (12.5%), Klebsiella sp. (10%), Citrobacter sp. (5%), Escherichia coli (2.5%) and Siccibacter sp. (2.5%). Staphylococcus, Bacillus, Enterobacter, Klebsiella, Citrobacter, Escherichia coli, and Siccibacter sp. were positive for haemolysis and α-amylase production, 80% of Staphylococcus sp were coagulase positive while 46, 40, 57 and 25% of Staphylococcus, Bacillus, Enterobacter, and Klebsiella sp produced biofilm. The antibiogram showed multi-drug resistance (0.2-1.0). Levofloxacin was 60% effective against Staphylococcus sp, while susceptibility of Klebsiella and Citrobacter sp to ofloxacin, gentamycin, nalidixic acid, and levofloxacin 66.7%. The water samples from these hospitals might not be good for drinking. Thus, treatment of water before use is recommended. The high antibiotic resistance could imply the emergence of resistant isolates in hospital water.

Background: Melioidosis, an infectious disease caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, is endemic in tropical countries. In nonendemic areas, the disease is rarely suspected because of varying clinical presentations and only a few attempts are made to isolate the pathogen. Many cases are left underdiagnosed or underreported in geographical areas where the disease is not endemic. This study aimed to analyze the clinical presentations, comorbidities, and antibiotic susceptibility patterns in patients with melioidosis in a tertiary care center. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was done on culture-confirmed melioidosis patients admitted to a tertiary care center, from January 2015 to December 2022. Relevant information on clinical presentations, mortality rate, comorbidities, and antibiogram was collected from hospital medical records. Results: A total of 73 culture-confirmed cases of melioidosis were included in the study. Common clinical presentations were pneumonia (n = 35, 47.9%), septicemia (n = 13, 17.8%), and deep abscesses (n = 9, 12.3%). The mortality rate from melioidosis was 15.1% (n = 11). No significant difference was found in the mortality rate between pneumonia and septicemia groups (P = 0.716). Diabetes mellitus (DM) was the major comorbidity detected (n = 56, 76.7%). Isolates were susceptible to ceftazidime (n = 71, 97.3%), meropenem (n = 71, 97.3%), and co-trimoxazole (n = 60, 82.2%). Conclusions: Common clinical presentations of melioidosis in our setting were pneumonia and septicemia. DM was the major comorbidity. Nearly one in six patients died. Ceftazidime and meropenem were the effective antibiotics. These findings may help physicians to make an early microbiological diagnosis which is essential to reduce mortality.

Abstract Background The study aims were to evaluate the species distribution and antimicrobial resistance profile of Gram-negative pathogens isolated from specimens of intra-abdominal infections (IAI), urinary tract infections (UTI), respiratory tract infections (RTI), and blood stream infections (BSI) in emergency departments (EDs) in China. Methods From 2016 to 2019, 656 isolates were collected from 18 hospitals across China. Minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined by CLSI broth microdilution and interpreted according to CLSI M100 (2021) guidelines. In addition, organ-specific weighted incidence antibiograms (OSWIAs) were constructed. Results Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) were the most common pathogens isolated from BSI, IAI and UTI, accounting for 80% of the Gram-negative clinical isolates, while Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) was mainly isolated from RTI. E. coli showed

Intestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (DEC) remains a significant zoonotic etiological agent causing diarrhea leading to fatalities in both humans and animals. This study aimed to assess the pathotypes, phylogroups, and antimicrobial resistance profiles of DEC isolates obtained from pet dogs and analyze their interrelationships. Two hundred E. coli isolates were collected from rectal swab samples of 40 diarrheic and 40 apparently clinically healthy (non-diarrheic) pet dogs puppies aged between 1-6 months, between January and June 2023. After E. coli isolation using classical conventional methods, their identification was performed phenotypically using the BD Phoenix 100 automatic microbiology system and confirmed genotypically using PCR. Pathotypes (EHEC, EPEC, ETEC, EIEC) and phylogenetic groups (A, B1, B2, C, D, E, F, Clade 1) of isolates were investigated via multiplex PCR. Resistance profiles to 19 antibiotics belonging to ten antimicrobial families were determined using the BD Phoenix 100 automated microbiology system with NMIC/ID 400 Gram negative identification cards. The relationship between the clinical status of the sampled dogs (diarrheic and healthy) and the antibiotic resistance profiles, multi-drug resistance (MDR), pathotypes, and phylogroups of E. coli isolates was analyzed using the Chi-square (χ2) test. Pathotyping revealed that all E. coli isolates belonged to EHEC (47.2%), EPEC (34.5%), ETEC (12.8%), and EIEC (5.5%) pathotypes, while phylogenetic analysis indicated that the isolates were distributed among filogroups B2 and C (23.7%), D (20.0%), B1 (12.7%), E (9.0%), F (3.6%), and A (1.8%). Antibiotic susceptibility test results revealed that 78.2% of isolates exhibited MDR. Significant statistical associations were observed between the clinical status of dogs and resistance to ampicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, ciprofloxacin and tigecycline. However, no significant statistical relationship was found between multi-drug resistance profiles, pathotypes and phylogroups of the isolates. The presence of virulence genes specific to DEC pathotypes in canine isolates indicated that apparently healthy pet dogs could serve as a potential source of human infections, similar to diarrheic dogs. The presence of diverse phylogroups highlights the population diversity of E. coli, while the high prevalence of multi-drug resistant isolates underscores the necessity for careful antibiotic selection in the treatment and control of infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a list of references from scientific articles that discuss the analysis and detection of diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains in various regions and populations. The articles cover topics such as the prevalence, virulence genes, and antimicrobial resistance of E. coli strains associated with diarrhea and urinary tract infections in countries including Bangladesh, Vietnam, India, Iran, and Mexico. These references are valuable resources for researchers studying the epidemiology and characteristics of diarrheagenic E. coli strains in different settings. [Extracted from the article]

Background and Objectives: Klebsiella pneumoniae is a healthcare-associated infections agent and could be an extended spectrum ß-lactamase (ESBL) producer. Understanding the transmission of this bacterium in a hospital setting needs accurate typing methods. An antibiogram is used to detect the resistance pattern of the isolates. Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus (ERIC)-PCR are rapid, technically simple, and easy-to-interpret DNA typing methods. This study aimed to evaluate the use of antibiotyping, RAPD-, and ERIC-PCR to investigate the heterogeneity of K. pneumoniae isolated from clinical specimens. Materials and Methods: The antibiograms of 46 K. pneumoniae clinical isolates were determined by Vitek® 2 Compact. All isolates underwent RAPD-PCR using AP4 primer and ERIC-PCR using ERIC-2 primer. The dendrogram was generated using the GelJ software and analyzed to determine its similarity. The analysis of antibiogram and the molecular typing diversity index was calculated using the formula of the Simpson's diversity index. Results: About 71.7% of the isolates were ESBL-producers, and more than 80% of isolates were susceptible to amikacin, ertapenem, and meropenem. The antibiotyping produced 32 diverse types with DI = 0.964. In addition, the RAPD-PCR produced 47 different types with DI = 1, while ERIC-PCR was 46 (DI=0.999). Conclusion: Antibiotyping, RAPD- and ERIC-PCR showed powerful discrimination power among the isolates, supported the diversity of K. pneumoniae isolates in current study. These combination could be promising tools for clonal relationship determination, including in tracking the transmission of the outbreak's agent in hospital setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance in microbial keratitis has not been previously explored in Alexandria. We aim to recommend effective therapies through identification of etiological agents, determination of antimicrobial susceptibilities, and comparing outcomes of empiric topical antimicrobials. Methods: In this 2022 prospective cohort conducted in Alexandria Main University Hospital cornea clinic, antimicrobial susceptibilities of isolated microorganisms from corneal scrapings were detected and antibiograms were developed. Bacterial (BK), fungal (FK), or mixed fungal/bacterial keratitis (MFBK) patients on empiric regimens were compared for ulcer healing, time-to-epithelialization, best-corrected visual acuity, interventions, and complications. Results: The prevalent microorganisms in 93 positive-cultures were coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS, 30.1%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (14%), and Aspergillus spp. (12.9%). CoNS were susceptible to vancomycin (VAN, 100%) and moxifloxacin (MOX, 90.9%). Gram-negative bacteria showed more susceptibility to gatifloxacin (90.9%) than MOX (57.1%), and to gentamicin (GEN, 44.4%) than ceftazidime (CAZ, 11.8%). Methicillin-resistance reached 23.9% among Gram-positive bacteria. Fungi exhibited 10% resistance to voriconazole (VRC). Percentages of healed ulcers in 49 BK patients using GEN + VAN, CAZ + VAN and MOX were 85.7%, 44.4%, and 64.5%, respectively (p = 0.259). Their median time-to-epithelialization reached 21, 30, and 30 days, respectively (log-rank p = 0.020). In 51 FK patients, more ulcers (88.9%) healed with natamycin (NT) + VRC combination compared to VRC (39.1%) or NT (52.6%) (p = 0.036). Their median time-to-epithelialization was 65, 60, and 22 days, respectively (log-rank p < 0.001). The VRC group required more interventions (60.9%) than NT + VRC-treated group (11.1%) (p = 0.018). In 23 MFBK patients, none healed using NT + CAZ + VAN, while 50% healed using VRC + CAZ + VAN (p = 0.052). Regimens had comparable visual outcomes and complications. Conclusion: Based on the higher detected susceptibility, we recommend empiric MOX in suspected Gram-positive BK, gatifloxacin in Gram-negative BK, and GEN + VAN in severe BK. Due to better outcomes, we recommend NT + VRC in severe FK. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT05655689. Registered December 19, 2022– Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05655689?cond=NCT05655689.&draw=2&rank=1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the microbial ecosystem within car interiors, specifically targeting vehicles owned by healthcare workers at the Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic Medical Center. The investigation employed standard microbiological techniques to assess microbial presence and diversity by collecting 20 swabs from various surfaces, such as the steering wheel, dashboard, gear handle, and driver's seats across five vehicles. Notably, the analysis revealed significant variations in microbial load across different surfaces, with the driver's seat and gear handle in particular vehicles exhibiting the highest bacterial colony counts. The results revealed varying levels of microbial contamination in different areas. For instance, the driver's seat in sample A exhibited the highest total colony count at 120 Cfu/m2, followed by the steering wheel with 41 Cfu/m2. Similar findings were observed in the other samples, highlighting the presence of potentially harmful microorganisms. The study observed that fungal species identified varied in prevalence, with Aspergillus sp. The most common are Fusarium sp., Candida sp., and Penicillium sp., in descending order of frequency. Furthermore, the study assessed the antimicrobial susceptibility of the bacterial isolates, uncovering a spectrum of sensitivity and resistance to various antibiotics. The findings underscore the car interior as a potential reservoir for transmitting pathogenic microorganisms to occupants, posing public health implications, particularly for healthcare workers who may inadvertently contribute to disseminating these organisms. This research highlights the need for regular microbial surveillance and the implementation of effective sanitation practices within personal and professional vehicles to mitigate health risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to identify and characterize isolates of Francisella salimarina associated with an outbreak on a marine fish farm in Brazil and to analyse their genetic variability and antimicrobial susceptibility. In 2021, diseased cobias (Rachycentron canadum, n = 10) and dusky groupers (Epinephelus marginatus, n = 10) were sampled and subjected to bacteriological and pathological examinations. The isolates obtained were morphologically and biochemically characterized and identified by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐time of flight (MALDI‐ToF) and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The genetic diversity of these isolates was analysed using repetitive extragenic palindromic‐polymerase chain reaction (REP‐PCR). Antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed using the disk diffusion technique. Macroscopically, the fish presented skin ulcerations, ocular lesions, hepatomegaly and splenomegaly. A pleomorphic, gram‐negative, catalase‐ and oxidase‐positive bacterium was isolated from seven cobias and two groupers. The 16S rRNA gene sequences showed >99% coverage and identity with other deposited sequences of F. salimarina. The results of the biochemical analysis corresponded to these bacterial species. Histologically, granulomas were observed in the spleen, liver and heart of the cobias (n = 6), and necrotizing and fibrinous dermatitis and myositis were identified in some groupers (n = 2). The isolates exhibited the same banding pattern when REP‐PCR was performed, indicating that they were clonally related. Finally, the antibiogram test, no inhibition halo was observed for amoxicillin and trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole. To our knowledge, this is the first report of F. salimarina infection in cobias and dusky groupers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Streptococcosis, due to Streptococcus agalactiae, has become a serious challenge for aquaculture around the world. Therefore, the main purpose of this work was to confirm the etiological agent that caused "dark body" disease in snakeskin gourami (Trichogaster pectoralis) cultured in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Infected fish displayed clinical signs, including anorexia, lethargic swimming on the water surface, corneal opacity, and hemorrhage in the base of the fin. Remarkably, abnormal black coloration on the body and serious hemorrhage at the base of the pectoral fin, and on the body were found in infected fish. In total, 75 bacterial strains were isolated from different diseased fish farms. Based on morphological and physiological characteristics, the API 20 Strep test, and 16S rRNA sequence analysis, the result illustrated that the bacterial isolates were identified as S. agalactiae. Additionally, antibiotic sensitivity testing revealed that all the S. agalactiae isolates were sensitive to amoxicillin, rifampicin, clarithromycin, erythromycin, doxycycline, cephalexin, novobiocin, and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim. Interestingly, S. agalactiae strains were only resistant to gentamycin in this study. Two strains, SRT41 and SRT43, carried out an experimental challenge with concentrations from 104 to 107 CFU/ml in healthy snakeskin gourami, and the LD50 values of the isolates, SRĐT41 and SRĐT43, were determined to be 2.15 × 105 and 3.59 × 103 CFU/ml, respectively, after 7 days. To our knowledge, this is the first report of S. agalactiae derived from intensively cultured snakeskin gourami in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cumulative antibiogram is essential to guide empirical therapy for infectious diseases and monitor the trend of antimicrobial resistance. However, the status of antibiogram generation at medical institutions in Japan is uncertain. A web-based questionnaire survey was conducted in February 2023 on the status of antibiogram preparation among facilities participating in the Japan Surveillance for Infection Prevention and Healthcare Epidemiology (J-SIPHE), an infection control surveillance system in Japan. The questionnaire collection rate was 19.6% (379/1931). Of all facilities, 47% (178/379) performed microbiological tests mainly in-house, while 53% (201/379) performed microbiological tests mainly outsourced. Of all facilities, 78% (296/379) prepared antibiograms. Of those without antibiograms, 33% (27/83) were considering the development in the future. Some facilities cited staff shortage as a barrier to preparing antibiograms. Of the 214 facilities with antibiograms that could use the J-SIPHE system to prepare antibiograms, 19% (41/214) were using the J-SIPHE system to prepare their antibiograms. One-quarter of the facilities that responded to the survey had not prepared antibiograms. Technical support for surveillance and awareness activity for using cumulative antibiograms might promote antibiogram preparation in Japan, which may improve antimicrobial stewardship and antimicrobial resistance measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aim: Different Salmonella serotypes are considered one of the most important food pathogens in the world. Poultry meat and eggs are the primary carriers of Salmonella in human populations. This study aimed to estimate the Salmonella enteritidis and Salmonella typhimurium contamination rates of retail hen and quail eggs in Karaj, Iran. Moreover, the antimicrobial resistance patterns of the strains were evaluated, and the efficiency of the standard culture method and multiplex polymerase chain reaction (m‐PCR) were compared. Materials and methods: In this descriptive cross‐sectional study over 1 year (Jan–Dec 2022), 150 commercial and 150 backyard hen eggs and 300 commercial quail eggs, without cracks and fractures, were collected randomly from best selling groceries in Karaj city. All samples were examined for Salmonella contamination independently by standard culture and m‐PCR approaches. A standard disc diffusion method was employed to assess the antimicrobial susceptibility of the strains against 18 antimicrobial agents. Results: Out of 300 examined eggs, 2 S. enteritidis strains were isolated from the shell of backyard hen eggs. The same serotype was also detected in the contents of one of these two eggs. One S. typhimurium was isolated from the shell of a commercial hen egg. Overall, the Salmonella contamination of the shell and contents was 1% and 0.3%, respectively. Salmonella was not isolated from the eggshells or the contents of the quail eggs. There was complete agreement between the results of m‐PCR and the standard culture methods. Among the 18 tested antibiotics, the highest resistance was recorded for colistin (100%), followed by nalidixic acid (75%). Conclusion: As most Salmonella spp. are associated with human food poisoning, continuous surveillance is required to effectively reduce the risk posed by contaminated poultry eggs. Furthermore, mandatory monitoring of antimicrobial use on Iranian poultry farms is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was two-fold: first, to collect data on the use of antibiotics in Germany for dogs and cats and, second, their owners' experiences and opinions. Using an anonymous online survey, dog and cat owners were asked about the last antibiotic administration in their pet. The inclusion criterion was any antibiotic administration within the last year. A total of 708 questionnaires from 463 dogs and 245 cats could be evaluated. Diarrhea was reported as the most common reason for antibiotic administration in dogs (18.4%). Wound infection/abscess/bite injury was the second most common reason in dogs (16.0%). In cats wound infection/abscess/bite injury was the most common reason (23.3%), followed by dental treatment (21.2%) and upper respiratory tract infections (16.7%). The most common antibiotics used systemically in both species were amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (32.5%), amoxicillin (14.8%), metronidazole (6.9%), and doxycycline (6.8%). While efficacy (99.9%) and tolerability (94.8%) were rated as most important for the choice of antibiotics, costs (51.6%) were cited as predominantly unimportant. First-line antibiotics were used significantly more often than critically important antibiotics. The majority of animal owners show awareness for avoidance of antibiotic resistance and the use of critically important antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) is considered an opportunistic pathogen that causes high morbidity and mortality and is responsible for a high proportion of hospital infections pathogen that can cause several disease syndromes in the community and hospitals. Recently, P. aeruginosa infections having antibiotic resistance have been increasing and serious problems are being experienced in treatment. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, antibiogram pattern, and molecular identification of oprL virulence gene of P. aeruginosa recovered from human pus . One hundred samples from human pus were collected for bacteriological identification before being subjected to molecular identification. The results revealed that 13/100 (13%) were positive for P. aeruginosa on Citramide ager. All isolates showed high sensitivity to Imipenem, Apramycin, Amikacin, Norfloxacin, Sulphamethoxazol, with 100%, 92.31%, 84.61%, 9.23%, and 61.53% respectively. For the molecular characterization of P. aeruginosa (5 isolates) for detection of oprL virulence gene. The results indicated that oprL genes were the detected genes in all tested samples with (100%). In conclusion; the obtained results provide important data about the importance of the oprL virulence gene and pathogenicity of P. aeruginosa as well as the widespread of MDR strains that complicated the treatment options in human community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial isolation and identification were carried out from the urine samples collected from 50 dogs with clinical signs of urinary tract infection (UTI). After conducting biochemical tests and observing growth on selective media, the isolates were identified as Klebsiella (36%), E. coli (28%), Proteus (28%) and Staphylococcus (8%) after conducting biochemical tests and observation of colony growth on selective media. The identities of those isolates were confirmed using genus-specific PCR. Antibiogram of the isolates revealed that the most effective antibiotic was cotrimoxazole against E. coli and Klebsiella, ceftriaxone against Proteus and amikacin against Staphylococcus. The most widely used antibiotic enrofloxacin against UTI was found to be the least effective against all the four types of isolates. Fifty per cent of the isolates were found to be multidrug resistant within which, 44 per cent were Klebsiella, 28 per cent E. coli, 24 per cent Proteus and four per cent Staphylococcus. The high resistance levels observed in the four bacteria in this study underscore the critical need for prudent antibiotic use across all medical practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Aeromonas sp., and Escherichia coli isolated from samples of yellow hake (Cynoscion acoupa). We analyzed 53 Aeromonas spp. and four E. coli isolates. We observed increased resistance of E. coli to levofloxacin and sulfa-trimethoprim as well as resistance of Aeromonas spp. to ampicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanate, cefuroxime, and cefotaxime. The multiple antimicrobial resistance(MAR) index indicated multidrug resistance in 90.54% (n=48) of Aeromonas spp. isolates and in 50% (n=2) of E. coli isolates. One strain of Aeromonas spp. was resistant to all 11tested antimicrobials (MAR index = 1.00). In vitro,piperacillin + tazobactam was the most effective antimicrobial for E. coli,and cefepime and levofloxacin were the most effective antimicrobials for Aeromonas spp. Therefore, in case of illnesses caused by these microorganisms, these antimicrobials should be used. The multidrug resistance of Aeromonas spp. and E. coli in this study is elevated. This is worrisome considering the increase in bacteria resistant to multiple drugs, reducing the options for successful clinical antimicrobial use.

Abstract Background While the use of cumulative susceptibility reports, antibiograms, is recommended for improved empiric therapy and antibiotic stewardship, the predictive ability of antibiograms has not been well-studied. While enhanced antibiograms have been shown to better capture variation in susceptibility profiles by characteristics such as infection site or patient age, the potential for seasonal or spatial variation in susceptibility has not been assessed as important in predicting likelihood of susceptibility. Methods Utilizing Staphylococcus aureus isolates obtained in outpatient settings from a nationwide provider of care, the Veterans Health Administration, and a local provider of care, the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, standard, seasonal and spatial antibiograms were created for five commonly used antibiotic classes: cephalosporins, clindamycin, macrolides, tetracycline, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. Results A total of 338,681 S. aureus isolates obtained in VHA outpatient settings from 2010 to 2019 and 6,817 isolates obtained in UIHC outpatient settings from 2014 to 2019 were used to generate and test antibiograms. Logistic regression modeling determined the capacity of these antibiograms to predict isolate resistance to each antibiotic class. All models had low predictive capacity, with areas under the curve of

Diarrhea is a prevalent and economically impactful ailment in cattle herds, resulting in substantial losses attributed to mortality, treatment expenses, and impaired calf growth. The aim of this study was to establish data about the occurrence of the main bacterial agents involved in diarrhea in dairy calves in the state of Maranhão, as well as to determine the most effective and/or resistant antibiotics, establishing a foundation for treatment and prevention protocols. The samples were collected with rectal swabs and initially cultivated on sheep blood agar (5%) and MacConkey agar and later on Salmonella-Shigella agar and eosin-methylene blue agar. Gram staining, biochemical tests, and antibiograms were performed on the obtained colonies. Ten municipalities were studied, with 230 calves evaluated from ten dairy farms. A total of 21 animals exhibited clinical signs of diarrhea, representing a frequency of 9.13%. The frequency of positive farms was 35%, and in 50% of municipalities. Bacteria isolated belonged to the Enterobacteriaceae family, with 71.4% Escherichia coli, 14.3% Enterobacter sp., 9.5% Proteus sp. and 4.8% Klebsiella sp. On the antibiogram, the bacteria that showed the highest resistance levels were those of the Proteus genus, followed by Enterobacter sp. and E. coli. The bacteria found are relevant for both animal and human health due to their zoonotic potential and serve as a public health alert since the isolates in this study showed in vitro resistance to several antibiotics, which predisposes them to the emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria.