Antibiotic Sensitivity Research Articles

Salmonella enteritidis acquires phage resistance through a point mutation in rfbD but loses some of its environmental adaptability

Phage therapy holds promise as an alternative to antibiotics for combating multidrug-resistant bacteria. However, host bacteria can quickly produce progeny that are resistant to phage infection. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms of bacterial resistance to phage infection. We found that Rsm1, a mutant strain of Salmonella enteritidis (S. enteritidis) sm140, exhibited resistance to phage Psm140, which was originally capable of lysing its host at sm140. Whole genome sequencing analysis revealed a single nucleotide mutation at position 520 (C → T) in the rfbD gene of Rsm1, resulting in broken lipopolysaccharides (LPS), which is caused by the replacement of CAG coding glutamine with a stop codon TAG. The knockout of rfbD in the sm140ΔrfbD strain caused a subsequent loss of sensitivity toward phages. Furthermore, the reintroduction of rfbD in Rsm1 restored phage sensitivity. Moreover, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of rfbD in 25 resistant strains revealed a high percentage mutation rate of 64% within the rfbD locus. We assessed the fitness of four bacteria strains and found that the acquisition of phage resistance resulted in slower bacterial growth, faster sedimentation velocity, and increased environmental sensitivity (pH, temperature, and antibiotic sensitivity). In short, bacteria mutants lose some of their abilities while gaining resistance to phage infection, which may be a general survival strategy of bacteria against phages. This study is the first to report phage resistance caused by rfbD mutation, providing a new perspective for the research on phage therapy and drug-resistant mechanisms.

658 Treatment Outcomes Among Patients with Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections Using a Multidisciplinary Management approach in a Complex UTI Clinic: A 20-Months’ Experience

Abstract Aim Our aim was to assess the treatment outcomes among patients with recurrent UTIs managed in a novel multidisciplinary complex UTI clinic started by Department of Urology at a single tertiary care centre, over a 20-month period. Method In view of persistently increasing burden and prevalence of antibiotic resistance associated with UTIs, a multidisciplinary complex UTI clinic, is started by Urologists supported by specialist nurses and microbiologists was started in April 2021. A prospectively maintained database of 176 patients {(median age 57.4 years (14-89 years) and (Male:Female ratio of 1:10)} who were referred to our clinic, within a 20-month period was reviewed. Patient demographics, urine culture results (causative bacterial organism and antibiotic sensitivities), investigations performed, and treatment outcomes were recorded. Pre-treatment QoL (Quality of Life) and post-treatment PGI-I (Patient global impression of improvement Scale) Score were measured. Results Escherichia Coli (69%) was identified as the most common causative organism. 30% patients had multi-resistant bacterial organism on urine culture. Abnormal Flexible cystoscopy, Renal Tract USS, CT Urogram was reported in 14%, 13% and 11% respectively. All patients received information on general cystitis prevention measures. 46 (26%) required intra-vesical treatment (Gentamicin 12%, Amikacin 1% and Glycosaminoglycans 13%). 71% patients remained infection free on follow up. Pre-treatment 64% patients reported significant impact on their QoL. 88.6% (94) of the 106 patients, followed up after the completion of treatment had good improvement on PGI-I scale (Table 1). Conclusions A dedicated complex UTI clinic service with multidisciplinary treatment approach can be efficient in managing recurrent UTIs.

Characterization of Leuconostoc lactis Bacteremia during a 2-year Study at a Tertiary Care Center in North India-An Observational Analysis.

Leuconostoc species are regarded as important causes for many infections in immunocompromised patients. In this study, we assessed the characteristics of Leuconostoc spp. causing bacteremia in patients at our center. This observational analysis was conducted in the microbiology laboratory of a tertiary care center in northern India from July 2021 to July 2023. Patients in whom blood culture bottles were positive for Leuconostoc lactis were included in the study. Culture isolates were identified by MALDI-ToF MS as L. lactis and tested for antibiotic sensitivity results by Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Demographic and clinical details were collected and analyzed. During the study period, 6,742 blood culture bottles flagged positive. Among these, L. lactis was isolated from 14 (0.21%) patients. The median patient age was 34 years. The male-to-female ratio was 2.5:1. All the patients with L. lactis bacteremia had an underlying condition leading to immunosuppression (e.g., carcinoma and chronic kidney disease). All the patients with L. lactis bacteremia had an intravascular device present at the time of bacteremia. All isolates in the study were sensitive to doxycycline, high level gentamicin, minocycline, ampicillin-sulbactam, and linezolid. Mortality was attributed to bacteremia by L. lactis in five patients. Appropriate and timely identification of the Leuconostoc species is important for the clinician to tailor regimens for the patients.

Effectiveness of Mangifera Indica, Carica Papaya, and Citrus Limon Peels as Bio-Floor Wax for Classroom Use in the Philippines

The Philippines has a tradition of using floor wax to enhance the shine and durability of floors. However, commercial floor wax often contains harmful chemical substances that pose significant health risks. The study evaluated the potential of Mangifera indica, Carica papaya, and Citrus limon as bio-floor wax. Using a quantitative research approach, the research examined the odor, shininess, friction, and water resistance properties of these fruit peels. An antimicrobial sensitivity test was also conducted, and the mango extract had the highest average inhibition zone, while the combined extract had the lowest. The results showed that lemon peels have the highest friction on ceramic tiles, while papaya peels performed best on wood flooring. Mango peels showed the highest shininess on scarlet oak surfaces. The water resistance test showed no significant differences across different tiles. The results showed that the fruit peels could be a viable option for bio-floor wax in Philippine classrooms. Further research is recommended to develop formulations suitable for broader applications and to validate the product’s performance under different environmental conditions.

Multidrug-resistant Organism and Antibiotic Sensitivity Patterns, before, during, and after the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic in the Dr. M. Djamil Central General Hospital, Padang, Indonesia

Abstract Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly impacted the prevalence and antibiotic sensitivity patterns of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs). This study aimed to investigate the MDRO incidence and antibiotic sensitivity trends before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic at Dr. M. Djamil Central General Hospital in Padang, Indonesia. Methods: A total of 5539 clinical samples were collected and analyzed using the VITEK2 system to identify MDRO types. The study periods were defined as before (prepandemic), during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: The incidence of MDROs increased significantly during and after the pandemic, with 1.64 and 1.42 times higher rates compared to the prepandemic period, respectively. Specific MDRO types that showed increased prevalence included Escherichia coli-producing extended-spectrum β-lactamases (Eco-ESBL), carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP), carbapenem-resistant E. coli (CREC), carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA), carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB), and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Antibiotic sensitivity decreased during and after the pandemic for K. pneumoniae-producing ESBL s, CRKP, and CRAB, as well as for CREC and CRPA during the pandemic. In contrast, antibiotic sensitivity increased for Eco-ESBL and MRSA during and after the pandemic. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly contributed to the increased incidence of MDROs and decreased antibiotic effectiveness against these pathogens in the study setting. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive infection control measures and antimicrobial stewardship programs to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on MDRO epidemiology.

Antibiotic Resistance and Inflammatory Response in Urology Infections Caused by E. coli: A Molecular and Clinical Investigation

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common condition resulting from bacterial invasion of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. These infections are particularly prevalent among females due to anatomical differences and hormonal factors. UTIs can range from uncomplicated cases, where there are no structural abnormalities, to more severe infections that may ascend to the kidneys, causing pyelonephritis. Methods: This study aimed to isolate and diagnose Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria in patients with UTIs, identify specific virulence genes, and assess the bacteria's resistance to various antibiotics. A total of 100 clinical samples were collected from patients with UTIs at the General Hospital of Homadiyah and Ahmed Maher from October 2021 to December 2022. Bacterial identification was performed using biochemical tests and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques, while antibiotic sensitivity was assessed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Additionally, inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8) were measured using ELISA. Results: E. coli was isolated in 56% of the samples, with the highest prevalence in patients aged 31-40 years. The antibiotic sensitivity test revealed varying levels of resistance, with the highest sensitivity observed to third-generation cephalosporins, particularly ceftriaxone (32.2% resistance). PCR analysis identified the presence of several virulence genes, including the Hly gene in 96.6% of isolates and the iha gene in 10% of isolates. Elevated levels of inflammatory markers were observed in patients with UTIs, indicating a strong immune response to bacterial infection. Conclusion: E. coli is a significant pathogen in UTIs, exhibiting considerable antibiotic resistance, particularly to first-generation cephalosporins. The presence of specific virulence genes correlates with the severity of infection. These findings underscore the need for targeted antibiotic therapy and the development of strategies to manage antibiotic resistance in UTIs.

Molecular Detection of the mecA and some Virulence Determinants in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Background: Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is globally acknowledged as a prominent contributor to both hospital-acquired and community infections. Understanding key virulence factors including coagulase production, hemolysis ability and biofilm formation, is crucial. Objective: The study aimed to establish a molecular characterization of mecA gene and virulence factors genes (hla, icaA, and coa) in clinical isolates of MRSA obtained from two hospitals in Baghdad. Materials and Methods: A hundred and five isolates were obtained from clinical sources from November 2022 to March 2023 and their antibiotic sensitivity was assessed using the agar diffusion test against seven different antibiotics (Azithromycin, Ciprofloxacin, Nitrofurantoin, Rifampin, Trimethoprim, Ofloxacin and Oxacillin), through Conventional Polymerase Chain Reaction, the presence of virulence factor genes including mecA, hla, icaA, and coa, was determined in MRSA isolates. Results: All MRSA isolates (100%) harbored the mecA, hla, and icaA genes while the coa gene was recognized in 50% of the isolates. Regarding antibiotic susceptibility, all MRSA isolates (100%) demonstrated sensitivity to Nitrofurantoin. Additionally, 96.8% of the isolates were sensitive to Oxacillin. Conclusion: Molecular detection of methicillin resistance genes and virulence genes can be used to diagnose MRSA isolates in hospitals. The presence of these genes may affect their pattern of sensitivity to antibiotics.

Effects of probiotics on productive performances and serum lipid profile of broiler as substitute of antibiotics.

The present research was accomplished to characterize probiotics from broiler gastrointestinal tract (GIT) by profiling biochemical, antimicrobial, and antibiotic sensitivity properties. Eventually, probiotic potentiality was evaluated as a substitute for antibiotic supplements in broiler focusing growth performance, carcass characteristics, and serum lipid profile. Probiotic bacteria were characterized based on morphological, physiological, and several biochemical tests. Antibacterial activity against a broad spectrum of antibiotics and bacterial pathogens was detected. An in vivo trial was conducted on 40-day-old Ross 308 broiler strains during 21 days in an in vivo trial. The chicks were divided into total of five groups, a control group and four experimental groups (Antibiotic1, Antibiotic2, Probiotic1, and Probiotic2) in a completely randomized design. Probiotic was supplemented in broiler feed (2× 109 CFU/g feed) or by direct oral gavage (1× 109 CFU/chick). The variables of production performance like body weight (BW), average daily gain (ADG), feed intake (FI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR), carcass characteristics and serum lipid profile were measured. 10 probiotic bacteria were presumptively identified as Lactobacillus sp. based on the morphological, physiological, and strong resistance properties in several biochemical tests. The mixture of Lactobacillus had favorable effects on productive performance of broilers regarding BW, ADG, and FCR (p < .05) compared with chickens that had no additive or had antibiotic during overall period of in vivo trial. Additionally, noteworthy efficacy on carcass characteristics and serum lipid profile were found (p < .05) in Lactobacillus mixture fed chicken groups of in vivo trial. Mixed Lactobacillus sp. can be considered as a potential additive for broiler diet attributable to noteworthy efficacy on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and serum lipid profile. Accordingly, the research highlights the need for suitable alteration of antibiotics through probiotic characterization and proper inclusion in broiler diet.

Selectively Isolation and Molecular Identification by dnaJ Gene of Legionella pneumophila Found in Various Water Sources in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Abstract BACKGROUND: Legionella spp. are the etiological agents of Legionnaires’ disease, often severe pneumonia. After the first severe outbreak of Legionella spp., it was found widely dispersed in natural water sources and humid environments and has become a concern for these sources’ water quality and safety. The fecal indicators used for water quality assessment do not predict the presence of these pathogens; thus, in the absence of targeted analysis, the risk is unobserved until the emergence of infections. There is no study on the presence of Legionella in unattended water bodies in Bangladesh, such as swimming pools, air-conditioned cooling water, and stagnant circulatory water systems. METHODS: A total of 42 water samples were collected from 12 different sites in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Acid, heat, and chlorine treatment were applied to reduce the load of non-Legionellae in water samples. Chlorine treatment was used to kill unwanted organisms in water samples. After successful pretreatment, samples were cultured on buffered charcoal yeast extract agar (BCYE) media. Optimum pH, concentrations of chlorine, and temperature were set up by extensive trial and error culturing of Legionella on BCYE media to minimize other bacterial growth and maximize Legionella growth. Isolated colonies were confirmed primarily by morphological characteristics on BCYE media. Isolates were then confirmed by polymerase chain reaction and gel electrophoresis techniques. We detected the presence of 16S rDNA for Legionella spp. and the dnaJ gene for Legionella pneumophila species identification. Antibiotic sensitivity tests (minimum inhibitory concentration) were also conducted to see if it was alarming for our community’s health. RESULTS: Most of the Legionella spp. could grow at various temperatures, such as 45°C, 50°C, and 55°C, and they could also survive at the normal levels of chlorination, such as 0.25 mg/L and 0.5 mg/L. We have found that, out of 12 different sites, 4 out of 5 (80%) isolates from cooling tower water, 1 out of 4 (25%) from the swimming pool, and 1 out of 3 (33%) household stagnant water are contaminated with Legionella. However, 3 out of 5 isolates found are L. pneumophila from cooling water sites. Furthermore, strains of Legionella spp. were resistant to many antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin, azithromycin, and tetracycline. CONCLUSIONS: Serious and fatal Legionella spp. (L. pneumophila) infections may be transmitted because of the widespread presence of these water sources and the large number of users in the community. This threat is worsened by the survival of Legionella under various commonly used antibiotic conditions and further exacerbated by their antibiotic resistance. Health-care professionals may face great challenges due to the lack of studies about its prevalence and treatment procedures.

Characteristics of Bacteria in Urine and Stones from Patients Treated with Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy and Association with Postoperative Infection.

The purpose of this study was to identify bacterial differences between urine cultures (UC) and stone cultures (SC) in patients with complex kidney stones and to determine any correlation with post-percutaneous nephrolithotomy Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS). Perioperative data of 1055 patients with complex kidney stones treated with first-stage Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) from September 2016 until September 2021 were included. Preoperative mid-stream urine samples and surgically obtained stone material were subjected to bacterial culture and antibiotic sensitivity tests. Preoperatively, antibiotic usage was determined by the UC or local bacterial resistance patterns. After PCNL treatment, antibiotic selection was guided by stone bacterial culture result and clinical symptoms. The effect of different preoperative antibiotic regimens based on urine cultures and postoperative antibiotic treatment based on stone cultures were assessed. Positive stone cultures (SC+) were significantly more common than positive urine cultures (UC+) (31.9% vs 20.9%, p < 0.05). Escherichia coli (E. coli) was the most common uropathogen in both urine (54.3%) and stones (43.9%). The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Moreover, UC+SC-, UC-SC+, UC+SC+, and preoperative serum creatinine were independent risk factors of postoperative SIRS. The incidence of SIRS in the UC+SC+ patients with different bacteria in stones and urine (51.6%) was higher than that in other culture groups. The antibiotic resistance of E. coli inside the stone was increased when prolonged preoperative antibiotics were administered to UC+ patients. The bacterial spectrum and positive outcome of culture in urine and stones were significantly different. The incidence of postoperative SIRS was highest in patients with UC+SC+ but with different bacteria strains. Prolonged pre-surgical antibiotic treatment apparently induced higher drug resistance for bacteria inside the stone.

Determination of the Activity of Antibiotic Resistance in Bacterial Causative Agents of Diarrhea among Children Under the Age of 5 Years

Abstract Background: Escherichia coli is one of the most important bacterial agents that cause diarrhea in children. Objectives: The present study was carried out to investigate the bacterial causative agents of diarrhea in children, as well as the genes that encoded for antibiotic resistance to beta-lactams in E. coli isolated from the feces of children under the age of 5 years with symptoms of diarrhea and its relationship to antibiotic resistance. Materials and Methods: One hundred stool samples were collected from the diarrhea patients. Individually 15 samples of stool were planted on several culture media, and then the bacterial isolates were diagnosed using the Vitek 2 technique. After that an antibiotic sensitivity test was conducted. Forty isolates of E. coli were subjected to molecular detection by polymerase chain reaction. Results: The results of the sensitivity test showed that most of bacterial isolates were resistant to the all tested types of antibiotic. In contrast three (7.5%) bacterial isolates were resistant to the antibiotic Amikacin, which is the lowest percentage of resistance. The results of molecular identification showed that 12 (66%) isolates were carried the blaCTX-M gene, which was significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) compared to the isolates carrying the blaTEM gene 6 (33%) isolates. Conclusion: It can be concluded that E. coli isolated from diarrhea children under of 5 years old conferred of antibiotics resistances against a wide range of antibiotics tested could be due to genes (such as TEM and CTX-M) which encoded to this resistance activity.

Antibiotic Indexing and Heavy Metal Reduction Potential of Four Multi-metal Tolerant Bacterial Strains in Real-Time Sanitary Landfill Leachate Matrix.

Sanitary leachate from urban landfills is known to be contaminated with multi-metals and residual antibiotics. Current research edges on exploring the multi-metal and antibiotic sensitivity profile of four indigenous strains, "Brevibacillus spp. Leclercia spp. Pseudescherichia spp., and Brucella spp." isolated from the leachate of a sanitary landfill in a tropical region. Indigenous isolates were observed to be antibiotic-resistant and have high tolerance against eight of the ten tested metals except Cu & Co. It was observed that interaction with multi-metals in laboratory conditions significantly altered the cell morphology of bacterial strains, as depicted by Scanning Electron Microscope. Metal adsorption onto the microbial surface was deciphered through Electron Dispersive Spectrometer analysis and elemental mapping. Application of isolated strains into real-time leachate matrix exhibits a complete reduction of Ag and Zn and for other tested metals. Their response to these toxicants may facilitate their application in bioremediation-based treatment technologies for urban landfill leachate.

Evolution of copper coupons resistance in Enterobacteriaceae strains isolated from high-contact surfaces in hospital.

Metallic copper alloys have gained attention recently as a cutting-edge antibacterial weapon for areas where surface hygiene is crucial. The present study aimed to assess copper coupons (99% Cu) for their potential to decrease the viability of various Enterobacteriaceae strains from inanimate hospital surfaces. This in vitro-experimental study was conducted at the Microbiology Laboratory, Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences and Earth and Universe Sciences, University of Guelma, and Khodja Ahmed Public Hospital Establishment, Algeria, for a period of six months from January to May 2022. A total of 85 samples were collected from patient room door handles and bed rails at the government hospital in Guelma State, from which 12 enterobacterial isolates were obtained. These isolates were evaluated for susceptibility to copper and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) coupons using plate counts to determine bacterial viability after 72 hours of incubation at 37°C or room temperature (25°C). Antibiotic sensitivity testing was then carried out using a modified Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Copper coupons' ability to either select for or create antibiotic resistance is also determined. Copper showed a bactericidal effect after three hours for Serratia odorifera and six hours for Escherichia coli. Whereas it was shown that within three days of selection, 83.33% of Enterobacteriaceae strains are capable of rapidly acquiring Cu resistance. Indeed, the increase in temperature reduced the effects of Cu (p<0.05; Student's t-test). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed that the copper-resistant bacteria were less sensitive than their predecessors. Citrobacter freundii strains showed the highest incidence of multidrug resistance. The most significant findings included widespread resistance to beta-lactams (100%-75%) and chloramphenicol (66.67%). These results suggest that prolonged copper usage may contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance, which could have significant ramifications.

New bacterial strains isolated from Tunisian biotopes: A sustainable enzymatic approach for decolorization and detoxification of Congo Red and Malachite Green.

Seven bacterial strains, isolated from various Tunisian biotopes, were investigated for Congo Red (CR) and Malachite Green (MG) decolorization. The isolated strains underwent morphological and biochemical tests, including assessments for antibiotic sensitivity as well as biofilm formation. One selected strain, ST11, was partially identified as Paenibacillus sp. strain ST11. The newly isolated crude bacterial filtrates (NICBFs) effectively decolorized CR and MG. Specifically, six and seven NICBFs were found to be effective for degrading CR (150mgl-1) and MG (50mgl-1), respectively. Under non-optimized conditions, CR and MG could be decolorized up to 80% within 6-12h. The degradation products of CR and MG, characterized by UV-visible and FT-IR techniques, demonstrated both decolorization and transformation, highlighting the role of enzymes in dye degradation. Phytotoxicity and cytotoxicity studies evaluated the impact of treated and untreated CR and MG. Some NICBFs showed promise as powerful biological tools, reducing and sometimes detoxifying CR and MG, commonly used as fertilizers. The potential applications of these NICBFs in decolorization and bioremediation of dye-rich textile effluents were explored. The screening also identified environmentally friendly, cost-effective bacterial strains adaptable to various conditions through phytotoxicity and cytotoxicity studies.

Diagnostic ultrasonography and antimicrobial resistance of different pathogens associated with canine and feline lower urinary tract disorders

There is a significant issue concerning the dissemination of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria within companion animals. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common problem in veterinary medicine for which empirical antibiotics are utilized. This study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial resistance of different uropathogens associated with UTIs in canine and feline cases. A total of 146 dogs and 162 cats suffered from lower urinary tract disorders were subjected to ultrasonographic and microbiological examination. Cystitis, urinary sediment, and cystic calculi are the most common ultrasonographic abnormalities associated with bacterial UTIs. Bacterial UTIs were obtained in 36.98 % and 25.92 % of cases in dogs and cats, respectively. A low rate of mixed infection was detected in canine cases (3.7 %). E. coli was the most prevalent pathogen isolated from 46.4 % and 66.7 % of canine and feline isolates, respectively followed by Proteus spp. in canine isolates (16.1 %) and Klebsiella spp. in feline isolates (14.3 %). Staphylococcus spp. was isolated from canine cases only with the detection of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) strains at 3.6 %. The majority of the isolated strains were resistant to various antibiotic classes, particularly β-lactams. All gram-negative bacteria were susceptible to amikacin, whereas gram-positive strains exhibited 100 % sensitivity to nitrofurantoin and linezolid. Different bacterial species displayed low resistance to carbapenems and fluoroquinolones. Multi-drug resistance was reported in canine and feline strains at 64.3 % and 54.8 %, respectively. These findings prove the crucial necessity to restrict antibiotic consumption depending on urine culture and antibiotic sensitivity tests.

Prevalence and Antimicrobial Sensitivity Patterns of Uropathogens in Wad Medani, Sudan: A Three Year, Cross-Sectional Study [Response to Letter

Prevalence and Antimicrobial Sensitivity Patterns of Uropathogens in Wad Medani, Sudan: A Three Year, Cross-Sectional Study [Response to Letter

Topical Polyethylene Glycol-Phage Ointment as a Therapy to Treat Burn-Wound Infection Using Mice Model

Background: One of the most significant problems facing public health today is antimicrobial resistance. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is considered one of the most prevalent causes of healthcare-associated illnesses. Objective: The use of phages as a potential alternative therapeutic method for treating bacterial infections has been the subject of significant research to solve this predicament. Methods: The P. aeruginosa isolates that caused infections of burn wounds were collected from three hospitals in Baghdad. The VITEK system diagnosed and examined the isolates for their antibiotic sensitivity. As well as the phages were isolated and purified from sewage water samples from different sewer stations. After these steps, phages were examined by transmission electron microscopy to ensure the order and the families of these phages, and the tests of lytic activities of phages on the P. aeruginosa isolates were done to determine the best lytic ability of them to use for treatment wounds infections. Results: Burn-wound infections swabs culture showed a positive culture for 109 isolates as the following P. aeruginosa in 76(69.72%), Staphylococcus aureus16(14.67%), Acinetobacter baumannii 9(8.25%), Klebsiella pneumoniae 5(4.58%), Escherichia .coli 3(2.75%) obtained from burn wound infections, had a significant level of resistance to several antibiotics. Four bacteriophages were isolated: KM1, KM2, KM3, KM4 and KM5. KM5 is a mixture of phages referred to as a cocktail. The four phages and their cocktail exhibited significant lytic activity against P. aeruginosa. A total of four monophages and a cocktail were utilized in the preparation of the PEG-phage ointment. Conclusions: All monophages and their cocktail could completely clear bacterial infection in 17 days. KM3 and KM4 PEG-phage ointments demonstrated more potent healing activity than standard, which required 12 days for full recovery, while the cocktail took 15 days (KM5). However, KM1 and KM2 took the same time as the standard, which is 17 days for burn wound infection treated with PEG-phage ointments, while the control, which did not receive any treatment, took 23 days to recover. KM1 and KM2 show less activity for healing burn wound infections from all five phage ointments.

Cutibacterium species: An Underestimated Pathogen in Chronic Infections

Cutibacterium speciesis a member of the skin micro biota, found predominantly in regions rich in sebaceous glands, involved in various chronic infections that led to its emergence as an opportunistic pathogen. The present study is a retrospective study to determine the prevalence and antibiotic sensitivity pattern of Cutibacterium species recovered from chronic infections over a period of 4.5 years. The identification of the colonies grew on the Robertson’s Cooked Meat media plate was done using VITEK 2. The antibiotic sensitivity tests were put by pour plate method using Epsilometer strips (E-strip).Out of 400, 17.75% (n=71) were confirmed as anaerobic bacteria by VITEK 2. Out of 71 positive anaerobic organisms, 21% (n=15/71) were confirmed as Cutibacteriumspecies.Cutibacterium species recorded prevalenceof 3.75% (15/400) among clinical specimens. High sensitivity was observed with beta lactam group of drugs whereas metronidazole drug was found ineffective against Cutibacteriumspecies. Due to prolonged culture time for anaerobic bacteria there is a high need in new diagnostic methods. In the recent times Cutibacterium species has been reported from various clinical samples which depicts shift of Cutibacterium species as a potential pathogen in the upcoming time.

Risk Factors and Occurrence of Salmonella enterica in Ready-to-Eat Vegetable Salad Sold in Gombe Metropolis, Gombe State, Nigeria

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt This study investigates the bacteriological safety of ready-to-eat (RTE) vegetables in the Gombe metropolis, Nigeria, focusing on their contamination with Salmonella enterica. It identifies a significant contamination rate of 36% and establishes a strong association between poor handling practices and the presence of Salmonella, providing critical insights into the public health risks posed by these RTE vegetables. The study's findings on antibiotic sensitivity patterns of Salmonella isolates further highlight the urgent need for targeted health interventions and improved food safety practices to mitigate typhoid transmission in this region. Full Abstract The worldwide twelve-monthly typhoid fever manifestations range amid 16–20 million ailments, ensuing in roughly 600,000 human mortalities, particularly amongst low-income and middle-income nations. Numerous typhoid outbreaks had previously been linked to contaminated vegetables. In the Gombe metropolis of Gombe state, Nigeria, ready-to-eat (RTE) vegetables are hawked around and handled using unhygienic methods. Hence, this study aimed to investigate and bridge the knowledge gap regarding the bacteriological safety of these ready-to-eat vegetables and the risk factors for their contamination with Salmonella enterica. A total of 100 samples were sourced from various locations in the Gombe metropolis, homogenized and inoculated on nutrient agar, Salmonella-Shigella agar, and MacConkey agar. Identification was executed by utilizing standard procedures of Gram’s staining and biochemical tests. Antibiotic sensitivity assessment was executed per CLSI guidelines, a questionnaire was utilized to acquire data for ascertaining the association amongst handling and contamination of the RTE vegetable salad, and this data was analyzed using a chi-square test. Findings revealed 36% of the samples were contaminated with Salmonella enterica, which were grey-white on nutrient agar, colorless colonies with black centers on Salmonella-Shigella agar, non-lactose fermenters on MacConkey agar, Gram-negative rod-shaped, motility and catalase positive, indole negative, urease negative, citrate negative, and KIA positive. Sensitivity showed the isolates were 100% sensitive to ofloxacin and chloramphenicol, 100% resistant to ceftazidime, cotrimoxazole, and ceftriaxone, but 95.4% were sensitive and 4.6% resistant to ampicillin. Data analysis revealed a significant association between contamination and some handling practices. The findings in this study have shown that the RTE vegetable salad is a source of public health hazard to the community, and also the information generated by this study can be used to create targeted health interventions against the RTE vegetable salad-transmitted typhoid in Gombe, Nigeria.

Thymol Enhances Antibiotic Sensitivity and Inhibits Biofilm Formation in Urinary Tract Infection Isolates of Escherichia coli From Gilan Province, Iran

Background: The present study aimed to investigate the effect of thymol on growth inhibition, biofilm inhibition, and antibiotic sensitivity of Escherichia coli isolated from urinary tract infection in Gilan province, Iran. Methods: The disc diffusion and broth microdilution methods were used to investigate the antimicrobial effect of thymol on 30 urinary tract infection isolates of E. coli. Additionally, the time-kill assay was used to investigate the effectiveness of thymol at different time intervals over a period of 24 hours. The anti-biofilm effect of thymol was investigated using the microplate method. Moreover, the effect of thymol on fimH gene expression was investigated. To investigate the effect of thymol on the sensitivity of E. coli isolates to cefotaxime and ciprofloxacin, the checkerboard assay was used. Results: ThymolFF exhibits inhibitory effects on the growth of E. coli isolates and the diameter of the zone of growth inhibition caused by 5 mg of thymol in the studied isolates varied between 15 and 30 mm and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of thymol against MDR E. coli isolates ranged from 1 to 4 mg/mL. Depending on the concentration and the exposure time, bacterial killing was promoted by thymol treatment. The use of thymol decreased the biofilm formation of the isolates by more than 50% compared to the control and also bacterial treatment with thymol led to down-regulation of the fimH gene. Furthermore, enhancing the antibacterial effect of cefotaxime and ciprofloxacin by thymol was demonstrated. Conclusion: The present study found that thymol, a terpenoid of plant origin, exhibited strong killing efficiency, inhibiting the biofilm formation, and enhanced antibiotic sensitivity of E. coli isolated from urinary tract infection.