Blood Agar Research Articles

Bacterial foodborne illness and Escherichia coli O157:H7 strain infection among asymptomatic food handlers in Northeast Ethiopia: Implication for hygienic practices and mass-screening.

Food-borne illness is a public health concern in developing countries because of improper food handling and sanitation practices, irregular medical checkups, lack of clean water supplies, and inadequate education among food handlers. This study investigated the burden of bacterial food-borne illness, antibiotic resistance patterns, and associated factors among food handlers in prison and nonprison food establishment settings. A cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2022 to January 2023 among asymptomatic food handlers in Shewa Robit town. A total of 384 food handlers participated. Data were collected using structured questionnaires. Stool and hand swab samples were collected and cultivated onto MacConkey agar, xylose-lysine-deoxycholate, Mannitol salt agar, and blood agar, and incubated at 37°C. Bacterial species were identified using biochemical tests and gram staining. Mueller-Hinton agar was used in Kirby Bauer's disk diffusion method. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS. Descriptive and logistic regression analysis were performed. Fecal and hand carriage rate of bacterial isolates were 106 (27.6%), and 214 (55.7%), respectively. Out of the 102 bacterial isolates, the most common ones from stool samples were Escherichia coli 71 (18.5%), Klebsiella aerogenes 12 (3.1%), and Salmonella spp. 7 (1.8%). Among 214 bacterial isolates, coagulase-negative Staphylococci 115 (29.9%) and Staphylococci aureus 66 (17.3%) were identified from hand swab samples. Hand washing practice after restroom with water (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16-3.45), irregular medical checkups (AOR = 2.49; 95% CI: 1.35-4.59), and did not receive food safety and hygiene training (AOR = 2.33; 95% CI: 1.34-4.05) were statistically significant association with food-borne illness. Foodborne pathogens pose a serious health risk in the study areas. The level of antimicrobial resistance are also concerning. Food handlers should therefore get strict regular health education, medical checkups, and training programs to prevent the spread of infections to the customers.

Effectiveness of ceiling-mounted ultraviolet-C lamps: An experimental study in a biocontainment unit of a tertiary care hospital

We aimed to evaluate the performance of ceiling-mounted UV-C lamps. This study was conducted in an empty room with UV-C lamps in the biocontainment unit of a tertiary care hospital in South Korea. Each pathogen (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Candida krusei, Bacillus cereus, and Mycobacterium peregrinum) was inoculated on blood agar plates and placed in 20 selected places from the UV-C lamp, and irradiation was applied for 15 min. As a control group, the bacterial solution was diluted 10,000 times and UV was not applied. A mean ± SD of 5.95 ± 0.91 log reduction was observed with UV irradiation compared with the control. The log reduction was greatest for S. aureus [median, 7.05 (IQR, 6.49-7.26)] and least for M. peregrinum [median, 4.88 (IQR, 4.58-5.24)]. The degree of log reduction was inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the UV-C lamp (R2 = -0.12, P<.001). In this study, ceiling-mounted UV-C demonstrated effective disinfection of at least 4-log reduction of the test organisms within a 4-m distance. Mounted UV-C lighting is a considerable option for improving surface disinfection.

A STUDY ON IN VITRO ACTIVITY OF FOSFOMYCIN AGAINST ENTEROBACTERIACAE UROPATHOGEN ALONG WITH MICROBIOLOGICAL PROFILE AND ANTIBIOGRAM OF UROPATHOGENS

Background:Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common infection throughout the world that may affect both the lower and the upper urinary tracts. Aims &amp; Objective:The present study was done to determine various organisms causing Urinary tract infections and to analyse antimicrobial sensitivity patterns of those isolates. Materials and Methods:This prospective study was conducted from April 2020 to March 2021at SIMS&amp; RH, Tumkur. All urine samples were received in Microbiology laboratory for routine microbiology investigations were inoculated on Blood agar and MacConkey agar culture media using calibrated wire loop . Urinary isolates with significant bacteriuria were further processed by conventional biochemical tests and antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done as per standard methods. Results: A total of 697 urine samples were processed in that 324 (46.48%) samples were shown as significant growth of bacteria. Most of the cases seen in (67.28%) female and under age group of 21-30(22.22%).The predominantly Gram-negative bacteria (85.18%) were isolated followed by Gram positive bacteria(10.49%) and Candida spp(4.32%). The Gram negative bacteria showed high sensitivity to Ampicillin sulbactum (88.27%) followed by Amikacin (87.24%). All Gram-positive bacteria isolates is showed sensitivity to Vancomycin (100%).We found that 235( 92.88%) Enterobacteriaceace isolates were is susceptible for Fosfomycin. Conclusion:. Antibiotic resistance has become a major clinical problem worldwide and has increased over the years.Hence antibiotic susceptibility testing should be done to diagnose and treat the drug resistant UTI cases. Fosfomycin may be given empirically in patients with uncomplicated urinary tract infection due to Enterobacteriaceace.

The antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of diabetic foot ulcers in the South African public healthcare sector.

Diabetic foot syndrome is defined as the presence of a diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) associated with neuropathy, peripheral artery disease and infection. While the use of antimicrobials in the treatment of DFU infection remains a mainstay, the choice of antimicrobial remains problematic owing to the presence of multidrug-resistant polymicrobial infections. In the South African public healthcare sector, the treatment of DFUs is based on the Standard Treatment Guidelines (STGs) and the Essential Drug List. These guidelines are developed using evidence-based medicine and are based on global susceptibility patterns rather than local susceptibility data, and may not provide the most appropriate treatment options. To determine the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of DFUs isolated from patients visiting selected Gauteng provincial public hospitals in order to determine a clinically effective treatment protocol for the management of these infections. Sample swabs were taken from 51 DFUs using the Levine method. Each sample swab was spread onto blood agar plates, and thereafter individual pathogens were isolated. The antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of all isolated pathogens were determined using zone of inhibition measurements. Pathogens were grouped according to macromorphological characteristics as well as susceptibility patterns, and a representative isolate from each group was then identified. A total of 51 DFU ulcer swabs from 45 patients were included in the study. From the sample swabs, a total of 445 pathogens were isolated. The most effective antimicrobial was found to be gentamicin, followed by ciprofloxacin. Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, the first-line treatment according to the STGs, was found to be ineffective for many of the isolated pathogens. The most commonly isolated pathogens were Proteus mirabilis, Enterococcus faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These findings demonstrate the urgent need to reassess the STGs and base treatment plans on local epidemiological data. This study provides valuable data on common causative pathogens in DFU infections, as well as the resistance patterns of these pathogens, forming a baseline on which to base future DFU treatment plans.

A NEW STRATEGIES: ANTIBIOTIC CIRCUMSTANCES FOR RATIONAL DRUG USE AGAINST CLINICAL AEROMONAS HYDROPHILA AND BACTERIAL PROPERTIES OF THIS BACTERIA ON DIFFERENT AGARS

Antibiotic resistance of A. hydrophila was once again observed on different agars. Random antibiotics drug treatment of diseases causes development resistance. Thus, we have faced post-antibiotic era in which our ability to challenge bacteria has diminished and the need for new strategies to deal with disease has increased. A. hydrophila ATCC reference strain, which causes the fatal Motil Aeromonas Septicemia (MAS) Disease in fish, was used in the study Colony structure of A. hydrophila formed on MacConkey (MAC), Aeromonas Isolation Base Agar (AIBA), Congo Red Agar (CRA) and Blood Agar (BA) were examined. The antibiotic susceptibility was determined by using the Kirby-Bauer method Mueller–Hinton Agar, MAC, AIBA and CRA agar plates. A. hydrophila was found sensitive to ciprofloxacin, enrofloxacin, gentamicin, sulphamethoxazole/trimethoprim, and resistant to penicillin G and oxacillin. The important difference was obtained as resistant to enrofloxacin on MAC. Multiple antibiotic resistance index (MARI) of A. hydrophila was determined as 0.33 in MHA and 0.5 in MAC. This difference was due to the antibiotic enroflaxin, and its appearance in this study, where a different new approach was tried for the first time, also added originality to the subject. This status may be related to an acquired plasmid. It is important to try to see resistance of A. hydrophila by using different agars while innovations such as the AntibiogramJ program are being tried to be added to antibiotic literature.

Pediatric Urinary Tract Infections at a Tertiary Care Center: Microbial Diversity and Antibiotic Resistance Patterns

Abstract Introduction: Urinary tract infection (UTI) remains a prevalent bacterial infection among the pediatric age group, ranking as the third-most common bacterial infection in children in developing countries, following gastrointestinal and respiratory tract infections. It continues to pose a significant health challenge. Materials and Methods: The urine samples underwent gross examination, wet mount, and Gram stain. Semiquantitative cultures were conducted on conventional media (MacConkey agar, blood agar, and CLED agar) and UTI chromogenic media. Uropathogen identification employed standard microbiological techniques. Antibiotic susceptibility was determined using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method, with interpretation based on CLSI guidelines. Plates were incubated overnight, and clear zone diameters around antibiotic discs were measured for sensitivity or resistance determination. Results: The study comprised 64.75% male children and 35.25% female children. Analyzing the age distribution, the majority of participants fell within the age range of 1–5 years (35%), followed by those &lt;1 year (33.75%), and the age group of 5–12 years, accounting for 31.25% of the total 400 participants. The findings from our investigation revealed a UTI prevalence of 17.25%, with Escherichia coli and Klebsiella emerging as the predominant uropathogens. Notably, these pathogens exhibited a significant susceptibility to carbapenems, nitrofurantoin, and amikacin. Conclusion: Our study identified a male predominance and various age distributions among UTI patients. Antibiotic susceptibility patterns revealed E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae’s high sensitivity to key antibiotics, whereas Enterococcus spp. exhibited significant high-level aminoglycoside resistance. This study underscores the importance of tailored antibiotic strategies based on local resistance profiles to combat UTIs effectively.

First report of isolation of Fusobacterium varium from liver abscesses and ruminal and colonic epithelial tissues of feedlot cattle*

ObjectiveOur objective was to isolate and determine prevalence of Fusobacterium varium in liver abscesses and the corresponding ruminal and colonic epithelial tissues and ruminal and colonic contents of feedlot cattle. Materials and MethodsA total of 96 intact liver abscess samples and matched ruminal and colonic tissues and contents from cattle, originating from feedlots that did not receive in-feed tylosin, were collected at slaughter. Liver abscesses and ruminal and colonic tissue were ho- mogenized and then plated, before and after enrichment in lactate or lysine medium with selective antibiotics, onto blood agar and selective lactate or lysine agar for isolation of Fusobacterium and to determine prevalence and concentration. Putative colonies were tested by a quantitative PCR assay targeting the hgdA gene for species confirma- tion. Results and DiscussionNone of the liver abscess samples yielded F. varium by direct plating; however, F. varium was isolated from 3 of 96 (3.1%) following enrich- ment of the homogenate in lactate or lysine medium. In contrast to liver abscesses, F. varium was isolated by direct plating from 27.1% (26/96) of ruminal epithelial and 3.1% (3/96) of colonic epithelial tissue homogenates. Overall, 10.1%, 77.1%, 44.8%, 86.5%, and 70.1% of liver abscess, ruminal, and colonic epithelial tissues and ruminal and colonic contents were positive for F. varium, respectively. Implications and ApplicationsThe increased fre- quency of isolation and high prevalence of F. varium in ruminal tissue and, to a lesser extent, in the colonic tissue confirms its ability to invade tissues and possibly cause bacterial ruminitis. However, the relatively low frequency of F. varium isolation and low prevalence in liver abscesses suggest that it is unlikely to be an etiologic agent. Inter- estingly, there is some evidence that ruminal strains of F. varium were resistant to tylosin; therefore, it would be of interest to determine the prevalence in cattle receiving in-feed tylosin.

Antimicrobial activity of cleanser tablets against S. mutans and C. albicans on different denture base materials

BackgroundIn this study, the antimicrobial activity of three different cleanser tablets on S. mutans and C. albicans adhesion to PMMA, polyamide and 3D printed resin was investigated.Methods40 samples were prepared for PMMA (SR Triplex Hot), polyamide (Deflex) and 3D printed resin (PowerResins Denture) materials and divided into four subgroups for cleansers (Aktident™, Protefix™, Corega™ tablets and distilled water) (n = 5). After the surface preparations were completed, the samples were immersed separately in tubes containing the prepared microorganism suspension and incubated at 37˚C for 24 h. After the incubation, the samples were kept in the cleanser solutions. The samples were then transferred to sterile saline tubes. All the tubes were vortexed and 10 µl was taken from each of them. Sheep blood agar was inoculated for colony counting. The inoculated plates were incubated for 48 h for S. mutans and 24 h for C. albicans. After incubation, colonies observed on all plates were counted. Statistical analyses were done with three-way ANOVA and Tukey’s multiple comparison test.ResultsPolyamide material registered the highest colony count of S. mutans, whereas PMMA registered the lowest. Significant differences in S. mutans adherence (p = 0.002) were found between the three denture base materials, but no such difference in C. albicans adherence (p = 0.221) was identified between the specimens. All three cleanser tablets eliminated 98% of S. mutans from all the material groups. In all these groups, as well, the antifungal effect of Corega™ on C. albicans was significantly higher than those of the other two cleanser tablets.ConclusionsAccording to the study’s results, it may be better to pay attention to surface smoothness when using polyamide material to prevent microorganism retention. Cleanser tablets are clinically recommended to help maintain hygiene in removable denture users, especially Corega tablets that are more effective on C. albicans.

Isolation and diagnosis of Staphylococcus aureus from wounds and detection of some virulence factors

The current study aimed to isolate and diagnose S. aureus, test its antibiotic susceptibility, and detect some virulence factors. 150 Clinical samples were collected from Kirkuk Hospital in Kirkuk city for the period from December 2023 to March 2024 from patients who were admitted and hospitalized after consulting the specialist doctor and referring him to the laboratory. Colonies of S. aureus were diagnosed based on the culturing characteristics of the colonies growing on mannitol salt agar medium and blood agar media and incubated at 37 0C for 24 hrs. The results showed that 47 (31.3%) of the samples showed bacterial growth. On the other hand, the results showed that S. aureus was highly resistant to Benzylpenicillin (81.8%), while it was very sensitive to both Nitrofurantion and Gentamicin (90.9%). A DNase test was conducted for clinical isolates of S. aureus, which were isolated from burns and wounds, and the results were 100% in terms of the susceptibility of S. aureus isolates to DNase results. The ability of 47 isolates of S. aureus to produce hemolysin was tested by culturing the bacteria on blood agar medium. The ratios of S. aureus isolates to haemolysin production varied, as evidenced by the data, with 39 (82.98%) isolates exhibiting complete hemolysis. It is concluded from the current study that S. aureus that was isolated from wounds was highly resistant to antibiotics and had dangerous harmful factors that increased the bacterial level in infections.

Detection and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Candida Species Isolated from the Urine of Patients in a Tertiary Health Facility, Southwest Nigeria

Aims: This study aimed to identify and determine the antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of Candida species causing UTI among patients attending a tertiary Teaching Hospital, in southwest Nigeria. Study Design: Comparative cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, Nigeria between June 2017 and February, 2018. Methodology: A total of 250 participants whose provisional diagnosis was candiduria were recruited for this study. Urine samples were collected from consenting participants early in the morning into sterile wide mouth universal containers. These samples were cultured aerobically on Blood agar, Cystine-Lactose-Electrolyte Deficient (CLED) agar and Sabouraud dextrose agar (SAB) at 370C within 1 to 2 days. The isolates were profiled into species level using microscopic, biochemical test, chromogenic media (Chrom agar Candida) and Analytical Profile Index (API) 32C examination analysis. Results: An overall rate for Candidiasis in this study was 12.8% (32/250). The rate was higher in female 17.5% compared to 6.5% in their male counterparts (p=0.014). Highest rate of infections peaked at 28.6% among age group 83-92 years and lowest (6.7%) in age group 23-32 years. A total of 11 (4.4%) urine culture from participants produced C. albicans pure fungi isolates. However, by gender, this was statistically significant (p=0.003). A total of 81 bacterial (32.4%) and fungal isolates 32 (12.8%) were isolated and profiled. Distribution of Candida species indicated highest incidence in age range 31-40 years, followed by 21-30years and age 61-70 years age brackets. The isolated species were Candida albicans 11(34.4%), C. tropicalis 8(25%), C. parapsilopsis 6(19%), C. krusei 2(6.3%) and C. hellenica 1(3.1%). Sixty to seventy percent of fungal isolates were susceptible to ketoconazole and fluconazole while the susceptibility pattern of Candida species to itraconazole, terbinafine and nystatin varied between moderately susceptible to resistance. All the Candida isolates were resistant to griseofulvin. However, C. albicans was found to be the major Candida species causing Candidal urinary tract infection. The only C. hellenica isolated was resistant to all the antifungal drugs were approved except nystatin. Conclusion: High profile of Candida isolates and related UTI microbes were found in this study. There is need for advocacy for the use of API and Chrom agar Candida for routine diagnosis for Candida identification. Nevertheless, the Candida isolates were mostly susceptible to ketoconazole and Fluconazole but only the isolates were griseofulvin resistant.

Investigation of Bacterial Contaminants and Their Antibiotic Susceptibility on Yemeni Banknotes in Aden City, Yemen

Background: Banknotes are among the objects frequently exchanged between people and can serve as a vehicle for the transmission of infectious agents. Therefore, the present study aimed to isolate and identify potentially pathogenic bacteria on Yemeni banknotes collected from various municipal sources in Aden city, south of Yemen. In addition, the susceptibility of the isolated bacterial species to commonly used antibiotics was tested. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 240 Yemeni banknotes of various denominations randomly collected from people from different places in Aden city between November 2019 and February 2020. Swabs from the surfaces of banknotes were streaked onto blood agar, chocolate agar, mannitol salt agar and MacConkey agar and incubated at 37 °C for 48 hours. After isolation, bacterial species were identified and tested for their susceptibility to commonly used antibiotics using established techniques. Results: Out of 240 banknotes examined, 98.3% were found to be contaminated with bacteria, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) ranging from 96 to 99. Among the isolated bacteria, 17.4% were Gram-positive cocci, 33% were Gram-negative bacilli and 49.6% were a combination of both. The mean plate counts of bacterial colonies ranged from 163.6±51.0 colony-forming units (CFU)/ml (95% CI: 147.3–179.9) for banknotes with a denomination of 100 Yemeni rials (YRIs) to 257.1±52.0 CFU/ml (95% CI: 240.5–273.7) for banknotes with a denomination of 50 YRIs. Staphylococcus aureus was the most frequently isolated bacterial species, detected on 66.9% of contaminated banknotes, followed by Escherichia coli (60.6%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (42.8%). Regarding antibiotic resistance, most S. aureus isolates showed resistance to ceftazidime (80.1%), followed by ceftriaxone (78.2%), ampicillin (77.6%) and co-trimoxazole (69.3%). On the other hand, most E. coli isolates showed resistance to amoxicillin/clavulanate (84.6%), followed by ceftriaxone (79.7%), ceftazidime (76.9%), ampicillin (58.3%) and ciprofloxacin (58.1%), while most P. aeruginosa isolates showed resistance to ceftriaxone (83.5%), followed by ceftazidime (80.2%) and ciprofloxacin (54.9%). Conclusion: Most banknotes in circulation in Aden city are contaminated with bacteria, predominantly S. aureus and E. coli, with lower denomination banknotes tending to have higher contamination levels. The high contamination rate of banknotes raises concerns about their potential in transmitting infectious diseases and emphasizes the advantages of transitioning to cashless payments. A substantial proportion of bacterial species isolated from banknotes exhibit resistance to commonly used antibiotics, raising concerns about the possible transmission of multidrug-resistant bacteria through the exchange of banknotes. Therefore, it is necessary to raise awareness and improve hygiene practices to minimize the transmission of bacteria and antibiotic resistance through the exchange of banknotes.

Assessment of Adequate Blood Culture Incubation Time to Accentuate Clinically Relevant Results from Blood Culture Instrument and Media System in a Tertiary Care Hospital Lahore

Background: Bloodstream infections necessitate rapid identification and management. Automated blood culture systems have revolutionized diagnostic microbiology by expediting pathogen detection and enabling effective clinical interventions. This study assesses the optimal incubation period for blood cultures in a tertiary healthcare setting, aiming to enhance diagnostic accuracy and support antibiotic stewardship. Objective: To evaluate the adequacy of incubation times in blood cultures for producing clinically significant results using an automated system in a tertiary care setting. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the Microbiology Section of Combined Military Hospital, Lahore, from October 2022 to March 2023. All patient blood samples processed through the Bactec/Alert system were studied. Positive samples were cultured on Blood and MacConkey agar and incubated at 35 ± 2°C for 24 hours. Positivity rates, contamination, and patient demographics were analyzed using the Laboratory Information Management System. Results: Of the 8,216 blood culture bottles processed, 490 (5.96%) were flagged as positive. Early detection within the first 24 hours was noted in 41.63% (n=204) of cases, with subsequent detections on the second day at 58.65% (n=258), the third day at 5.30% (n=26), and the fourth day at 0.20% (n=1). The isolated pathogens included gram-positive organisms (16.32%, n=80), gram-negative organisms (80.20%, n=393), and Candida spp. (3.46%, n=17). Conclusion: Timely and effective blood culturing is crucial for the diagnostic confirmation of bacteremia, enabling appropriate pathogen identification and antimicrobial therapy. Shortening detection times can significantly impact clinical outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and promote antimicrobial stewardship.

ISOLATION OF BACTERIA CAUSING DENTAL CARIES FROM THE CLINICS OF THE COLLEGE OF BILAD AL-RAFIDAYN UNIVERSITY

This study deals with Isolation of bacteria causing dental caries from the Forty samples (male and female) were collected from patients attending the clinics of the Department of Dentistry at Bilad Al-Rafidayn University College for the period 7/11/2022 to 4/5/2023. The total of (58) isolates before and after cleaning and tooth extraction collected from male and female samples .After diagnosing these isolates, it was found that. Streptococcus (42.5%) and gram-negative (20%) before dental work and cleaning . The Percentage of Streptococcus after cleaning (30%) and the gram-negative rod (7.5%). The percentage of Streptococcus isolated from tooth extraction (20%) and staphylococcus (2.5%) and gram-negative rod(2.5%). The spacemen were collected from the oral cavity and the culture was on mitis salivarius(Himedia/India) agar base, that was determined by biochemical tests by use of blood agar to detect hemolysis, the results revealed the samples were positive.

A Concurrent Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamase Production and Multidrug Resistance among Proteus Species isolated from Clinical samples of patients attending selected Hospitals in North Eastern Nigeria.

Proteus species are rod-shaped, Gram-negative bacteria that cause opportunistic infections in the urinary tract and occasionally in the gastrointestinal tract. They are implicated in infections like cystitis and pyelonephritis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, and are frequently present in cases of asymptomatic bacteriuria. Herein, we aimed to investigate the co-occurrence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) enzyme production and multidrug resistance (MDR) among Proteus spp. Isolated from patients attending selected hospitals in Northeastern Nigeria. A total of 1,500 clinical samples from consenting patients across six states in the Northeastern region of Nigeria were collected. The samples were cultured on Blood agar, and growth resembling that of Proteus species were again subcultured onto MacConkey agar to obtain discrete colonies, further confirmed using biochemical tests. Antibiotics susceptibility test was carried out for all isolates using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, coupled with a screening of the production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase using the Combined Disc Diffusion Method. Of the 1500 samples collected, 144 yielded positive growth for Proteus spp., resulting in a prevalence rate of 9.60%. Among these Proteus isolates, three species were identified, with Proteus mirabilis (90.97%) being the most abundant, followed by Proteus vulgaris (8.33%) and Proteus penneri (0.70%). The Proteus isolates displayed significant resistance to β-lactam antibiotics, with a Mean ± SD of 96.64 ± 22.73. A substantial portion of the Proteus spp. Isolated exhibited multidrug resistance (87.89%), with Proteus mirabilis (82.27%) being the most prevalent MDR species. Moreover, about 71.0% of the Proteus spp were ESBL producers, with Proteus mirabilis (64.54%) being the most predominant. Furthermore, 67.38% of all isolates exhibited MDR and ESBL production, and Proteus mirabilis (62.41%) was the most significant among the three Proteus species. These findings highlight the occurrence of multidrug resistance and ESBL production among Proteus spp. in Northeastern Nigeria, with Proteus mirabilis particularly noteworthy. This information is crucial for guiding clinical decision-making, especially in managing infections caused by multidrug-resistant and ESBL-producing Proteus strains.

Bullet-related bacterial wound infections among injured personnel at emergency site hospitals in Bahir Dar: prevalence, antimicrobial susceptibility and associated factors.

Bullet-related bacterial wound infection can be caused by high-velocity bullets and shrapnel injuries. In Ethiopia, significant injuries were reported that may cause severe wound infections, persistent systemic infections and may lead to amputation and mortality. The magnitude, antimicrobial susceptibility profiles, and factors associated with bacterial wound infections among patients with bullet-related injuries are not yet studied particularly at health facilities in Bahir Dar, Northwest Ethiopia. Therefore, this study was aimed to determine the prevalence, bacterial profiles, antimicrobial susceptibility profiles, and factors associated with bacterial infections among patients with bullet-related injuries at referral health facilities in Bahir Dar, Northwest Ethiopia. A Hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with bullet-related injuries at three referral health facilities in Bahir Dar from May 25 to July 27, 2022. A total of 384 patients with bullet-related injuries were included in the study. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Wound swabs were collected aseptically and cultured on Blood and MacConkey agar following bacteriological standards. Biochemical tests were performed to differentiate bacteria for positive cultivation and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of the isolates were done on Muller Hinton agar using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion technique according to the 2021 Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) guideline. The data were entered using Epi-Info version 7.3 and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive data were presented using frequency, percentages, figures, and charts. Logistic regression was carried out to identify factors associated with bacterial wound infections. P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The prevalence of bullet-related bacterial wound infection among three referral hospitals in Bahir Dar city was 54.7%. The most commonly isolated Gram-negative organism was Klebsiella spps 49 (23.3%) while among Gram-positive organism, Staphylococcus aureus 58 (27.6%) and coagulase-negative staphylococci (CONS) 18 (8.6%). Contamination, hospitalization and smoking habit were significantly associated with the presence of bullet-related bacterial wound infections. Over 97% multidrug resistant (MDR) bacterial isolates were identified and of theses, E. coli, Proteus species, Citrobactor, and Staphylococcus aureus were highly drug resistant. Increased prevalence of bullet-related bacterial wound infection was noticed in this study. S. aureus followed by Klebsiella species were most commonly isolated bacteria. High frequency of resistance to Ampicillin, Oxacillin, Cefepime, Ceftriaxone, Ceftazidime, Vancomycin, and Norfloxacin was observed. Therefore, proper handling of bullet injuries, prompt investigation of bacterial infections, monitoring of drug sensitivity patterns and antibiotic usage are critical.

Isolation and Identification of Morganella morganii from Rhesus Monkey (Macaca mulatta) in China

A bacterium was isolated and identified from the secretion of a rhesus monkey with endometritis. The morphological results showed that the strain exhibited round, convex, gray-white colonies with smooth surfaces and diameters ranging from 1 to 2 mm when cultured on Columbia blood agar at 37 °C for 24 h; on salmonella–shigella agar (S.S.) at 37 °C for 24 h, the colonies appeared round, flat, and translucent. Gram staining showed negative results with blunt ends and non-spore-forming characteristics. Molecular biology results showed that the 16S rRNA sequence of the strain revealed over 96.9% similarity with published sequences of M. morganii from different sources in the NCBI GenBank database. Morphological and molecular biology analysis confirmed that the strain (RM2023) isolated from cervical secretions of rhesus monkey was M. morganii. Drug sensitivity testing demonstrated that the isolated strain (RM2023) was sensitive to ceftriaxone, amikacin, gentamicin, cefazolin, cefuroxime, ceftazidime, levofloxacin, cotrimoxazole, norfloxacin, and tetracycline; moderately sensitive to ampicillin; and resistant to penicillin, vancomycin, ciprofloxacin, and clindamycin. The research findings provide valuable insights for disease prevention in rhesus monkeys and contribute to molecular epidemiological studies.

Bacterial etiologies, antimicrobial susceptibility pattern and associated factors among patients suspected sterile body site infections at Debre Markos Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.

Sterile body locations are usually associated with clinical urgency and life-threatening illnesses, and they are typically contaminated with diverse bacterial etiologies. If the bacteria acquire resistance to antimicrobial drugs, the public health crisis will only worsen. In developing countries, drug-resistant bacteria are common because of poor surveillance, diagnostic capacity, and control measures. Early diagnosis, and assessing the drug resistance and factors associated with infection are important to combat the drug resistance and treatment. This study aimed to assess the bacterial etiologies, antimicrobial susceptibility pattern, and possible associated factors among patients suspected of sterile body sites. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2022 to August 2022 at Debre Markos Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Amhara regional state, Ethiopia. One hundred seven study participants were selected using consecutive convenient sampling techniques. A structured questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic and clinical data. Gram stain was done for a preliminary report and inoculated into blood agar, MacConkey agar, and chocolate agar and incubated aerobically and micro aerobically at 37°C for 24 h. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done by the modified Kirby Bauer's disk diffusion method. Data were analyzed using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was used. A p-value less than 0.05 is considered as statistically significant. The overall magnitude of sterile body site infection among study participants was 7.5% (14/187). The majority of the isolates were Gram-negative bacteria with the predominant species Enterobacter cloacae accounting for 28.57% (4/14). Among isolates 78.57%(11/14) of them were multidrug-resistant isolates. Being inpatient, co-morbidity, and alcohol consumption were significantly associated with sterile body site infection. In our study, Gram-negative bacteria were the predominant bacteria that infects sterile body fluid. The prevalence of multi-drug resistance bacteria isolates was significantly high. Therefore, before prescribing an empirical treatment, a medical professional should identify the bacterial etiology of sterile body fluids and the susceptibility of microbes to the drug.

Molecular characterization and bivalent vaccine development of Aeromonas hydrophila and Aeromonas veronii in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

In the present study, nine strains of Aeromonas spp. were isolated from diseased Nile tilapia in Thailand and identified based on 16S rRNA and gyrB gene sequences and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) analysis. Phenotypic characterization was performed for all the isolates. For the antimicrobial susceptibility test, all isolates were resistant to amoxicillin, whereas most of the isolates were susceptible to enrofloxacin. Pathogenicity analysis revealed that most A. hydrophila strains were highly virulent to fish, corresponding with the hemolytic activity test demonstrating that clear hemolysis occurred on sheep blood agar. To develop a vaccine for fish against A. veronii and A. hydrophila infection, a bivalent vaccine based on the formalin-killed cells (FKC) of A. veronii A5 and A. hydrophila A9, which showed higher virulence to fish, was prepared. This FKC vaccine was administered to Nile tilapia by intraperitoneal injection. The booster vaccination was conducted at 4 weeks after the first vaccination. The specific antibody titer was evaluated during rearing since the first vaccination, and then at 8 weeks after the first vaccination, the fish were challenged with A. veronii A5 and A. hydrophila A9 via intraperitoneal injection. There is not significance different in relative percentage survival of the vaccinated fish against A. veronii (63.49 ± 19.51%) and A. hydrophila (93.33 ± 6.67%). These results suggest that this candidate bivalent vaccine is effective against both A. veronii and A. hydrophila infection in Nile tilapia and could be an “motile Aeromonas septicemia (MAS)” control measure. However, to obtain the promising vaccine efficacy, the optimization of vaccine formulation might be achieved and be validated vaccine efficacy in field trial.

Identification of Acinetobacter baumannii Isolated from Different Infections and Study the Prevalence of Antibiotic Resistance in Patients of Baquba City

Acinetobacter baumannii one of the important multidrug-resistant (MDR) opportunistic nosocomial pathogens, in part due to its high capacity of acquiring resistance to diverse antibiotic groups. Twenty five Clinical sample samples were gathered from various sources from Baquba Teaching Hospital, from the period june2022 to October 2022 after consulting with the expert doctor, from both in- and out-patients, and the samples were sent to the lab. Each sample's data was entered onto a unique form, and they included: 10 (sputum samples from respiratory tract infections; 5 burn samples; 4 wound samples; 6 samples for urinary tract infections. After being cultured on MacConkey agar and Blood agar, the isolates were identified. Oxidase and Catalase biochemical tests were performed on the samples, and Vitik2 was employed to make the final diagnosis. Twelve isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii were found after culture and identification; of these, five were found in sputum, two in burns, two in urinary tract infections, and three in wounds. Results of 10 different antibiotics' sensitivity tests on A. baumannii isolates from various clinical sources at the Baquba Teaching Hospital showed that the bacterium showed varying degrees of resistance to the medications.. 100% of the samples displayed resistance to Cefoxitin, Oxacillin, Ceftazidim, Cefepime, and Tetracyclin, while 75% displayed excellent susceptibility to Imipenem, The resistance patterns of isolates were also determined isolates showed to quinolone antibiotic such as Levofloxacin 6/12( 50%), Norfloxacin 7/12 (58.33%) , Ofloxacin 6/12( 50%) ,Ciprofloxacin 3 /12(25%).

Antibiotic resistance of Bacillus species isolated in foodstuff samples that were collected in Babylon (Iraq)

A total of 164 food samples were collected from various supermarkets and farmers in various areas of Babylon, were placed in plastic containers, and were transported to the laboratory. The isolation of Bacillus species was performed by culture in blood agar, chromogenic agar, and the absence of growth on McConkey agar, by staining with Gram stain, and through molecular identification of the species’ 16SrRNA gene and sequencing. The antibiotic susceptibility test used eight types of antibiotics. The undertaken sequencing identified the Bacillus isolates to belong to the follow¬ing species: B. subtilis (2), B. cereus (6), B. thuringiensis (1), B. anthracis (1), and B. spizizenii (1). The susceptibility test of the six B. cereus isolates revealed that 5 (83.3%), 4 (66.6%), 3 (50%), 2 (33.3%), 2 (33.3%), 2 (33.3%), 1 (16.6%), and 0 (0%) were resistant to rifampicin, clindamycin, erythromycin, tetracycline, trimethoprim, nitrofurantoin, gentamicin, and ciprofloxacin, while the respective resistance numbers for the two isolates of B. subtilis were 2 (100%), 2 (100%), 2 (100%), 0 (0%), 1 (50%), 0 (0%), 0 (0%), and 0 (0%). One isolate of B. thuringiensis presented resistance to erythromycin, erythromycin, trimethoprim, and rifampicin, while one isolate of B. anthracis was found to be resistant to gentamicin, erythromycin, nitrofurantoin, and rifampicin. The B. spizizenii isolate was resistant to all antibiotics except gentamicin and trimethoprim.