Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute Research Articles

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.

Assessing Non-Laboratory Healthcare Professionals' Attitude towards the Importance of Patient Preparation for Laboratory Tests.

(1) Background: Various guidelines address patient preparation and its importance for venous blood sampling, such as the GP41 guideline issued by the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) and the blood collection guidelines published by the World Health Organisation. Recommendations provided by national societies or international organisations in the field of radiology, such as The Contrast Media Safety Committee of the European Society of Urogenital Radiology, or in the field of laboratory medicine, such as the Working Group for Preanalytical Phase (WG-PRE) of the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) and the Latin American Working Group for Preanalytical Phase (WG-PRE-LATAM) of the Latin American Confederation of Clinical Biochemistry (COLABIOCLI), also guide this practice. There is a notable lack of understanding regarding the viewpoints held by non-laboratory healthcare professionals concerning the significance of patient preparation for laboratory testing and the impact of typical factors associated with patient preparation. This study endeavours to bridge this gap by assessing the attitude of non-laboratory healthcare professionals in Lithuania regarding these pivotal aspects. (2) Methods: A self-designed anonymous questionnaire was disseminated among 141 public healthcare institutions in Lithuania. The internal consistency of the questionnaire was evaluated by computing Cronbach's alpha. Descriptive statistics were utilised for the variables, while comparisons of attitude among groups were conducted using Mann-Whitney U (for two groups) or Kruskal-Wallis (for more than two groups) for categorical and discrete indicators. The Kruskal-Wallis post-hoc test was employed for pairwise comparisons. A significance level of p-Value < 0.05 was applied to establish statistical significance. (3) Results: A total of 158 respondents constituted two distinct groups of healthcare professionals: nurses and physicians. Most of the participants either agreed or strongly agreed that patient preparation could introduce bias into laboratory test results. Professionals with less than 20 years of work experience or those who attended training in patient preparation for sampling within a 5-year timeframe exhibited stronger agreement regarding different preanalytical factors in patient preparation and their impact on laboratory test results compared to their counterparts. (4) Conclusions: Non-laboratory healthcare professionals who participated in this survey consider proper patient preparation for laboratory testing to be a significant step towards obtaining accurate test results. They also recognize the commonly acknowledged preanalytical factors as important for ensuring reliable test results. However, attitudes towards the importance of several preanalytical factors vary depending on whether non-laboratory healthcare professionals have more or less than 20 years of work experience, as well as whether they have attended any training on this topic within the last five years or have never attended such training.

A comparative in vitro sensitivity study of “cefepime-tazobactam” and other antibiotics against Gram-negative isolates from intensive care unit

A comparative <i>in vitro</i> sensitivity study of “cefepime-tazobactam” and other antibiotics against Gram-negative isolates from intensive care unit

PHENOTYPIC DETECTION AND ANTIMICROBIAL SUSCEPTIBILITY PROFILE OF EXTENDED SPECTRUM BETA LACTAMASE PRODUCING Escherichia coli FROM SUSPECTED CASES OF URINARY TRACT INFECTION IN KANO METROPOLIS, NIGERIA

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, especially ESBL-producing Escherichia coli can be life-threatening as therapeutic options available to treat infected patients are limited. Resistance due to ESBL-producing bacteria poses a peculiar challenge in treating infections because of its association with multidrug resistance. The aim of this study was thus to determine the susceptibility pattern and phenotypic detection of ESBL-producing E. coli from UTI patients. Two hundred and forty-six (246) E.coli isolates obtained from patients with suspected urinary tract infections were studied. The identity of the isolates was confirmed using standard biochemical tests. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was carried out using the Kirby-Bauer Disc Diffusion Technique. Screening for ESBL production was done using the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute breakpoint. Suspected ESBL producers were subjected to confirmation using the Double Disc Synergy Test. Standard Discs of Augmentin (AMC 30µG Oxoid England), Ceftazidime (CAZ 30µG, Oxoid England) and Cefotaxime (CTX 30µG, Oxoid England) were used for the screening and confirmation. Multidrug-resistant E.coli were found to be 65.4%. Screening for ESBL production showed 67.1% suspected ESBLs producing E.coli. The Double Disc Synergy Test showed 22.4% confirmed ESBLs producing E.coli. Antimicrobial sensitivity of the ESBLs producing organisms showed 100% resistance to augmentin, ceftriaxone, ceftazidime, ciprofloxacin and cefotaxime while resistance to gentamicin was 91.1%, chloramphenicol 89.2%, nitrofurantoin 78.4%, and cotrimoxazole 94.6%. A 100% sensitivity to imipenem was also observed. ESBL-producing E.coli are present in Kano metropolis and are resistant to commonly prescribed antibiotics. We, therefore, suggest screening and confirmation for ESBL, to prevent treatment failure.

Microbial Contamination and Antibiotic Resistance in Food and Water: Assessing the Threat of Staphylococcus aureus in Lahore Metropolitan

Background: The research project in Lahore, Pakistan, seeks to detect S. aureus in drinking water, raw milk, and yogurt samples due to health concerns. S. aureus is a pathogenic bacterium with potential risks if present in food and water sources.Method: In this study, 300 samples of raw milk, yogurt, and drinking water were collected in Lahore. The presence of S. aureus was determined through morphological, microscopic, and biochemical methods. The biochemical analysis included testing for specific features of S. aureus. Disk diffusion technology was employed to assess the antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates, following the recommendations of the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute. Molecular confirmation was achieved through 16S rRNA sequence analysis using universal and specific primers.Results: The investigation uncovered that 6% of drinking water samples, 9% of yogurt samples and 58% of raw milk samples were tainted with S. aureus. These findings were further validated through 16S rRNA sequence analysis, affirming their reliability. S. aureus exhibited notable resistance rates, with 100% resistance to penicillin and 95% resistance to erythromycin. Conversely, resistance to ciprofloxacin and gentamicin was lower, at 10% and 5% each, indicating the potential efficacy of these antibiotics in treating S. aureus infections.Conclusion: The study emphasizes the risk of S. aureus infection from raw milk consumption in Lahore, Pakistan, due to inadequate sanitary practices. It stresses the necessity of implementing stricter measures in dairy production and water treatment to ensure public safety and reduce multidrug-resistant bacteria prevalence. Continuous monitoring and preventive actions are vital for safeguarding public health.Keywords: S. aureus; Antibiotic resistance; Food and water; Lahore, Pakistan; Sanitary measures

Antibiotic susceptibility profile of Pseudomonas species isolated from clinical specimens to access, watch and reserve drugs across various hospital settings at a tertiary care hospital of central India

Background and Objectives: Over the last decade, hospital-acquired infections, particularly in the critical care setting, have become more common, with Gram-negative bacterial infections having the highest prevalence. This study aims to determine the prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility pattern of Pseudomonas species to WHO’s, aware class of antibiotics, which are commonly prescribed across various ICU’s, medical and surgical wards of our tertiary care teaching hospital.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: This prospective study conducted from January 2021 to June 2022 at a tertiary care centre of cen- tral India identified Pseudomonas species from clinical samples using standard procedures and antimicrobial susceptibility testing performed as per Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines (M100; 32th Edition).&#x0D; Results: A total of 1490 non duplicate Pseudomonas species isolates were grown from 21,019 culture positive clinical sam- ples, of which 1247 were Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Out of these 1247 Pseudomonas aeruginosa 384 were MDR (30.7%). Pseudomonas aeruginosa were most commonly isolated from the pus samples (85%). ICU isolates were significantly more resistant to antibiotics than those from other units. P. aeruginosa strains from ICUs showed the highest rates of resistance to ceftazidime (93.9%). Reserve drug colistin showed good susceptibility (98.2%). All the 18 colistin resistant strains were found to be negative for plasmid mediated mcr-1,2,3 genes.&#x0D; Conclusion: The study shall help to generate and disseminate the data so that proper antibiotic policy can be made for judi- cious use of Access, Watch and Reserve antibiotics and antibiotic de-escalation plan can be put forth.

Molecular epidemiology of carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacilli in Ecuador

IntroductionCarbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacilli are a worldwide concern because of high morbidity and mortality rates. Additionally, the increasing prevalence of these bacteria is dangerous. To investigate the extent of antimicrobial resistance and prioritize the utility of novel drugs, we evaluated the molecular characteristics and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii in Ecuador in 2022.MethodsNinety-five clinical isolates of carbapenem non-susceptible gram-negative bacilli were collected from six hospitals in Ecuador. Carbapenem resistance was confirmed with meropenem disk diffusion assays following Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute guidelines. Carbapenemase production was tested using a modified carbapenemase inactivation method. Antimicrobial susceptibility was tested with a disk diffusion assay, the Vitek 2 System, and gradient diffusion strips. Broth microdilution assays were used to assess colistin susceptibility. All the isolates were screened for the blaKPC,blaNDM,blaOXA-48,blaVIM and blaIMP genes. In addition, A. baumannii isolates were screened for the blaOXA-23, blaOXA-58 and blaOXA-24/40 genes.ResultsCarbapenemase production was observed in 96.84% of the isolates. The blaKPC, blaNDM and blaOXA-48 genes were detected in Enterobacterales, with blaKPC being predominant. The blaVIM gene was detected in P. aeruginosa, and blaOXA-24/40 predominated in A. baumannii. Most of the isolates showed co-resistance to aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. Both ceftazidime/avibactam and meropenem/vaborbactam were active against carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacilli that produce serin-carbapenemases.ConclusionThe epidemiology of carbapenem resistance in Ecuador is dominated by carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae harbouring blaKPC. Extensively drug resistant (XDR) P. aeruginosa and A. baumannii were identified, and their identification revealed the urgent need to implement strategies to reduce the dissemination of these strains.

Simultaneous determination of inflammatory factors SAA and LTF based on stable element labeling and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry to aid in the diagnosis of infection

ObjectiveThe clinical value of Serum amyloid A (SAA) and Lactoferrin (LTF) has received significant attention, but their detection methods are inadequate, which limits their application. This study aims to develop a dual detection method based on stable element labeling strategies and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for SAA/LTF and to assess whether it can be widely used in clinical practice. MethodsA duplex immunoassay system based on sandwich method was constructed. After optimization, methodological evaluation was performed with the guidelines of Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Finally, 131 plasma samples were collected to analyze whether the new method is suitable for clinical detection. ResultsThe LoB, LLoQ, ULoQ, and linear range of the assay were 1.09 ng/mL, 3 ng/mL, 1500 ng/mL, 3–1500 ng/mL for SAA and 0.85 ng/mL, 2 ng/mL, 1200 ng/mL, 2–1200 ng/mL for LTF respectively. The recovery rates were 95.01% to 106.26%, the intra-batch precision of low, intermediate, and high-level samples was <8%, and the inter-batch of them was <11%, the deviation of interference test results was less than±10%. The Area Under the Curve (AUC) was 0.9809 for SAA, 0.8599 for LTF, and 0.9986 for combination. ConclusionThe quantitative duplex immunoassay for SAA/LTF has high accuracy, good precision, and high specificity, which meets the clinical testing requirements and can be widely used in clinical practice.

Pathogenic Aspergillus Strains Identification and Antifungal Susceptibility Analysis of 452 Cases with Otomycosis in Jingzhou, China.

To study the distribution of pathogenic Aspergillus strains of otomycosis in central China and the identification of their antifungal sensitivity. We collected external ear canal secretions clinically diagnosed as otomycosis from April 2020 to January 2023 from the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery in central China. The pathogenic Aspergillus strains were identified through morphological examination and sequencing. The antifungal sensitivity was performed using the broth microdilution method described in the Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute document M38-A3. In the 452 clinical strains isolated from the external ear canal, 284 were identified as Aspergillus terreus (62.83%), 92 as Aspergillus flavus (20.35%), 55 as Aspergillus niger (12.17%). In antifungal susceptibility tests the MIC of Aspergillus strains to bifonazole and clotrimazole was high,all the MIC90 is > 16 ug/mL. However, most Aspergillus isolates show moderate greatly against terbinafine, itraconazole and voriconazole. A. terreus is the most common pathogenic Aspergillus strain in otomycosis in central China. The selected topical antifungal drugs were bifonazole and clotrimazole; the drug resistance rate was approximately 30%. If the infection is persistent and requires systemic treatment, terbinafine and itraconazole can be used. The resistance of Aspergillus in otomycosis to voriconazole should be screened to avoid the systemic spread of infection in immunocompromised people and poor compliance with treatment. However, the pan-azole-resistant strain of Aspergillus should be monitored, particularly in high-risk patients with otomycosis.

Frequency of drug-resistant bacterial isolates among pregnant women with UTI in maternity and children’s hospital, Bisha, Saudi Arabia

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most prevalent bacterial infections affecting humans, with a higher incidence among women. Pregnant women are at an increased risk of developing UTIs, which can have detrimental consequences for both the mother and fetus. UTIs can be caused by various bacteria, and the prevalence of drug-resistant UTIs in maternity and children’s hospitals is a cause for concern due to the potential for severe complications if left untreated. The primary objective of the current study was to determine the distribution of UTI-causing bacteria and investigate the antibiotic sensitivity patterns of isolated cultures obtained from pregnant women with UTIs at the Maternity and Children’s Hospital, Bisha, Saudi Arabia. This cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2021 to October 2023, involving the analysis of urine samples collected from 321 participants who acquired UTIs during pregnancy. Using biochemical tests and standard cultures, the urine samples were examined for pathogenic bacteria and their anti-microbial sensitivity patterns. The study analyzed susceptibility results according to the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines (M100, 28th Edition, 2018). Bacterial strains demonstrating resistance to three or more antibiotics were classified as multidrug-resistant (MDR). This study revealed the distribution of UTI-causing bacteria to be as follows: Escherichia coli, 57.01%; Klebsiella pneumoniae, 24.61%; Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 4.36%; Proteus mirabilis and Enterobacter cloacae, 3.74%; Streptococcus agalactiae, 3.11%; Enterococcus faecalis, 2.18%; and Staphylococcus aureus, 1.24%. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing varied among gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Gentamicin demonstrated the highest sensitivity among both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria; piperacillin-tazobactam was the second most effective drug against gram-negative bacteria. The bacterial isolates showed varying susceptibility to different antibiotics, with Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa being mainly sensitive to gentamicin, piperacillin-tazobactam, and ciprofloxacin, respectively. The strategies for reducing the risk of UTIs need to be improved to limit the spread of MDR bacteria. These strategies may include promoting hygienic practices and administering appropriate antibiotics to prevent the emergence and spread of drug-resistant bacteria. Further research is required to monitor the trends in antibiotic resistance among UTI-causing bacteria and develop effective strategies for managing this public health menace.

The antimicrobial effect of different vitamin D compounds on Streptococcus mutans and their impact on glycosyltransferase expression

ABSTRACT Background Streptococcus mutans is a virulent microorganism associated with dental caries. This in vitro study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial effects of Cholecalciferol (D3) and Doxercalciferol (D2), against S. mutans and on glycosyltransferase gene expression. Methods Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of D3 and D2 for S. mutans were determined according to the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. The effect of the compounds on environmental pH in 1% w/v and 5% w/v sucrose broth cultures after 24 hours were assessed colorimetrically. Additionally, their impact on glycosyltransferases gene expression (GtfB, GtfC, GtfD) in 5% w/v sucrose culture was evaluated using quantitative real-time PCR. Results The MBCs of D3 and D2 were 83 µg/ml and 166 µg/ml respectively. Both compounds were effective in preventing the local pH drop <5.5 at ≥166 µg/ml in sucrose supplemented cultures. However, the compounds did not inhibit pH drop at MIC values. Notably, D2 upregulated GtfD expression significantly (p < 0.05) and downregulated GtfB and GtfC. Conclusion Vitamin D2 and D3 inhibited S. mutans mediated pH drop in sucrose supplemented cultures and altered glycosyltransferase expression, suggesting potential therapeutic roles in dental caries prevention. Further research is needed to assess their full impact on S. mutans survival under environmental stresses.

Differences in the system accuracy acceptability of four types of blood glucose monitoring systems against five different standards

AbstractObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the system accuracy of four types of blood glucose monitoring systems (BGMSs) and explore the differences in the system accuracy acceptability of each BGMS against five different standards.MethodsThe glucose measurement values obtained from four types of BGMSs (Roche Accu‐Chek® Performa, Bayer Contour™ TS, Sinomedisite Glupad® H1 Plus, and Sinocare® Gold‐Accu) were evaluated against the reference values obtained from the biochemical analyzer of the central laboratory. The system accuracy acceptability of each BGMS was determined using the criteria specified in five standards, namely the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 15197:2003, Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) POCT12‐A3, ISO 15197:2013, Chinese Society of Laboratory Medicine (CSLM) consensus, and US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines.ResultsFrom 2018 to 2022, 10,980 pairs of measurement values were obtained from 366 glucose meters of four types of BGMSs. Significant correlations were observed between the glucose measurement values from the BGMSs and the reference values from the biochemical analyzer of the central laboratory. The correlation coefficient r was 0.995 for Roche Accu‐Chek® Performa, 0.994 for Bayer Contour™ TS, 0.983 for Sinomedisite Glupad® H1 Plus, and 0.997 for Sinocare® Gold‐Accu. The acceptability criteria specified in ISO 15197:2003 were met by 100.00% (135/135) of the glucose meters of Roche Accu‐Chek® Performa, 100.00% (109/109) of Bayer Contour™ TS, 81.61% (71/87) of Sinomedisite Glupad® H1 Plus, and 100.00% (35/35) of Sinocare® Gold‐Accu. Whereas, the acceptability criteria specified in ISO 15197:2013 were met by 99.26% (134/135) of the glucose meters of Roche Accu‐Chek® Performa, 88.07% (96/109) of Bayer Contour™ TS, 58.62% (51/87) of Sinomedisite Glupad® H1 Plus, and 91.43% (32/35) of Sinocare® Gold‐Accu.ConclusionsAmong the four types of BGMSs evaluated, the glucose meters of Roche Accu‐Chek® Performa exhibited superior system accuracy. The system accuracy acceptability of each BGMS varied significantly against the acceptability criteria specified in the five different standards.

Fosfomycin susceptibility testing and resistance mechanisms in Enterobacterales in South Africa.

Fosfomycin treatment of urinary tract infections is increasingly attractive due to escalating antibiotic resistance rates among urinary pathogens. Standard antibiotic susceptibility testing methods perform poorly for fosfomycin as there is poor correlation between susceptibility results and clinical outcomes in urinary pathogens other than Escherichia coli. We evaluated the performance of fosfomycin susceptibility testing in E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae to determine whether fosfomycin susceptibility is associated with molecular resistance mechanisms. Forty-six each of E. coli and K. pneumoniae clinical isolates were obtained from a tertiary hospital in South Africa, from 01 June 2017 to 31 January 2018. Agar dilution, disk diffusion, and gradient diffusion were performed and interpreted using the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute and European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing guidelines. Molecular resistance mechanisms were identified by whole genome sequence analysis. Disk diffusion and gradient diffusion were accurate alternatives for fosfomycin susceptibility testing in E. coli (98% categorical agreement), but not in K. pneumoniae (47% categorical agreement). All E. coli isolates contained at least one resistance mechanism, but only one isolate with a fosA gene was resistant. In K. pneumoniae, 63% (29/46) and 70% (32/46) of isolates were susceptible to fosfomycin, using Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute and European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing breakpoints, respectively, despite all isolates containing a fosA gene and a uhpT mutation. A better understanding of fosfomycin susceptibility and improved antibiotic susceptibility testing tools could improve diagnostic capability and clinical guidelines for fosfomycin treatment of urinary tract infections. This study highlights the importance of adhering to interpretive guidelines when performing antimicrobial susceptibility testing and the need for simplified, accurate and standardised susceptibility testing methodology and interpretation for fosfomycin in Enterobacterales organisms.

Serum protein electrophoresis in European mink (Mustela lutreola): reference intervals and comparison of agarose gel electrophoresis and capillary zone electrophoresis

Background Knowledge of reference intervals for blood analytes, including serum protein fractions, is of great importance for the identification of infectious and inflammatory diseases and is often lacking in wild animal species. Material and methods Serum samples were obtained from European minks enrolled in the breeding program (n = 55). Agarose gel electrophoresis (AGE) and capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) were used to separate and identify protein fractions. Albumin, α1, α2, β, and γ-globulins fractions were identified in all mink sera by both electrophoresis methods. Reference intervals (90% CI) were determined following the 2008 guidelines of the Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute. The methods were compared using Passing-Bablok regression, Bland–Altman analysis, and Lin’s concordance correlation. Results A significant bias was found between methods for α1, α2, and γ-globulin. Lin’s concordance correlation was considered unacceptable for α1, α2, and β-globulins. Differences for gender between methods were found for albumin and α2-globuins, which were higher for males than females. γ-globulins were higher for adults than young minks using both methods; however, α1 and α2-globulins were lower. Conclusion Both methods are adequate for identifying serum protein disorders, but the AGE and CZE methods are not equivalent. Therefore, reference intervals for each technique are required.

CG-MS, Radical Scavenging, Acetylcholinesterase Inhibition, Antifungal and Molecular Docking Studies of Essential Oil from the Leaves of Tapirira guianensis Aubl

The species Tapirira guianensis Aubl is used in folk medicine to treat leprosy, diarrhea, and syphilis. The present study aims to evaluate the chemical composition and the antioxidant, anticholinesterase, and antifungal potential of the essential oil from T. guianensis leaves. The plant material was collected at Arco Estadual do Cocó, with prior authorization from the Municipal Environment Department. The essential oil was extracted through the hydrodistillation process with a Clevenger-type apparatus, and the constituents were evaluated through Gas Chromatography coupled to Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The antioxidant potential was assessed through free radicals: DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS+ (2,2-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) in a 96-well plate. Antifungal activity was evaluated using the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute - M38-A protocol (CLSI, 2018). Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry revealed the presence of constituents such as eugenol (59.00%), α-copaene (0.40%), β-caryophyllene (29.91%), α-humulene in T. guianensis. The essential oil demonstrated very promising antioxidant and anticholinesterase potential in In vitro studies. Molecular docking regarding acetylcholinesterase enzyme inhibition revealed that α-copaene has superior action compared to the drug physostigmine. The results of molecular docking for Candida albicans showed that α-copaene and α-humulene interacted in the same binding region as the PepA inhibitor against SAP5. This indicates their action is similar to the aspartic protease inhibitor, in addition to the possibility of a synergistic effect with the drug fluconazole. This is the first study of the biological potential of the essential oil from T. guianensis leaves, thus revealing its high potential for future studies in the scientific community. Therefore, we can infer that the essential oil of T. guianensis is a source of antioxidant, anticholinesterase, and antifungal constituents, with promising therapeutic potential in the management of Alzheimer's disease and Candida infections.

Antimicrobial susceptibility pattern and mupirocin resistance among methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from skin and soft-tissue infection patients attending a tertiary care hospital in North India

Background: Antimicrobial susceptibility among bacterial isolates varies from center to center. Mupirocin is a topical antibacterial antibiotic used to treat wound infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Aim and Objectives: This study was conducted to know the prevalence of high and low levels of mupirocin resistance along with antimicrobial susceptibility in MRSA isolates from skin and soft-tissue infection in patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital in North India. Materials and Methods: A total of 97 non-repetitive isolates of MRSA from various pus samples over a period of 1 year were included in this study. These strains were identified as per standard laboratory protocols given by the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute. High- and low-level mupirocin resistance of the isolates was tested by using mupirocin discs of 200 μg and 5 μg, respectively. Mupirocin strips of 256 μg and 512 μg were used for the E-test to detect low-level and high-level mupirocin resistance, respectively. The isolates were reported as sensitive to mupirocin, with minimum inhibitory concentrations of &lt;4 mg/L. Results: Overall, 9.27% of mupirocin resistance was found, of which 2.06% of isolates were high-level resistant to mupirocin, while 7.21% had low-level resistance. All MRSA strains were susceptible to vancomycin, followed by linezolid (94.84%), teicoplanin (91.75%), and fusidic acid (88.65%). Conclusion: Regular monitoring, good infection control practices, and proper awareness about utilizing mupirocin therapeutically and prophylactically may help prevent the emergence of mupirocin resistance in health-care facilities.

Detection and characterization of &lt;i&gt;Listeria monocytogenes&lt;/i&gt; from locally processed fermented foods in Ethiope West, Delta State, Nigeria

Outbreaks linked with foodborne pathogens and associated diseases occur regularly and pose substantial health problems to consumer safety globally. Listeriosis is a leading foodborne disease initiated by the consumption of foods contaminated by Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes ) This study evaluated the presence of . L. monocytogenes in various food samples. Locally fermented food samples (n = 80), which included Garri (n = 30), Kunu (n = 25), and Zobo (n = 25), were obtained from five open local markets in Ethiope West, Delta State, Nigeria. Food samples were screened for L. monocytogenes using standard cultural techniques, biochemical tests including the Analytic Profile Index (API) Listeria kit. The isolates were screened for antimicrobial resistance using the disc diffusion method, and breakpoints were interpreted based on the guidelines of the Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute. Gelatinase and lipase activities, including β-haemolysis, were determined using standard methods. L. monocytogenes was identified in 3 (3.8%) and 4 (5%) samples from Zobo and Kunu, respectively. The Garri samples were negative for L. monocytogenes, and only 7 of the 80 (8.8%) samples were positive for L. monocytogenes. One positive sample each was obtained in the Oghara and Ogharefe markets, two from the Ugbenu market, and three from the Mosogar market. No sample was positive L. monocytogenes. for in the Oghareki market. All the isolates were penicillin-resistant but susceptible to levofloxacin and tetracycline, whereas five were resistant to clindamycin. All isolates were resistant to at least two classes of antibiotics, and the multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index was ≥ 0.22. Gelatinase activity was observed in one isolate, β-haemolytic activity in four isolates, and lipase activity in five isolates. This study revealed the importance of proper hygiene practices in food production and continuous surveillance of antibiotic resistance and virulence determinants in food. There is a need to adhere to standard hygiene measures in food processing environments.

Bacterial Isolation from Wound Swab and Pus with their Antibiotic Susceptibility Pattern in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Bangladesh

Background: Wound infection is a global health problem, plays an important role in development of chronicity, delaying wound healing associated with long hospital stay. Objective: This study was aimed to identify the bacterial pathogens present in infected wounds and characterize their resistance profile to the most common antibiotics used in the therapy. Methods: This observational study was conducted from January, 2023 to June, 2023 in a tertiary care hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. A total of 220 wound swabs and pus samples were collected from the outpatient and inpatient department of this hospital with skin and soft tissue infection. Samples were inoculated on appropriate media and cultured and the isolates were identified by standard procedure as needed. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done by disc diffusion method according to ‘The Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute Guidelines’. Results: Out of 220 cases 165(75%) were Male and 55(25%) were female. Majority of the patients 77(35%) were in the age group of 21-31 years. Of the total 220 isolates, 156(70.91%) were culture positive cases. Among the isolated organisms, predominant bacteria was Pseudomonas spp 76(48.22%) followed by Klebsiella 27(17.31%), Escherichia coli 19(12.18%), Proteus 13(8.33%), Staphylococcus aureus 12(7.69%) and Acinetobacter 9(5.77%). Among the gram negative isolates, Pseudomonas was highly sensitive to colistin(88.15%), followed by piperacillin-Tazobactam(77.63%)and Imipenem(50%) and low sensitivity found in ceftriaxone(14.47%), Amoxiclav(13.16) and Clotrimoxazole (13.16%). Klebsiella found sensitive to colistin (90.47%), Piperacillin-Tazobactam (85.71%), Imipenem (76.19%), Gentamycin (71.43%). Escherichia coli shows low sensitivity to almost all the drug except Imipenem (94.74%), Piperacillin-Tazobactam (84.21%) and colistin(84.21%). Stapylococcus aureus show sensitivity to linezolid (100%), vancomycin (91.67%) and Ciprofloxacin (61.67%). Conclusion: Antibiotic sensitivity pattern of various isolates will guide for appropriate selection of the antibiotic against wound infection and reduce the spread of resistance bacteria. Bangladesh Heart Journal 2024; 39(1): 38-43

Coagulation Testing in Real-World Setting: Insights From a Comprehensive Survey.

The objective of this survey was to gain a real-world perspective on coagulation testing by evaluating the availability of various coagulation laboratory tests, assessing specific analytic and postanalytic steps in clinical laboratories in Korea.Participants were surveyed using a 65-question questionnaire specifically focused on their coagulation testing practices related to prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), plasma-mixing studies, lupus anticoagulant (LA) tests, platelet function tests, coagulation factor assays, and the composition of hemostasis and thrombosis test panels. The survey was performed between July and September 2022.The survey achieved a 77.9% (81 of 104) response rate. PT or aPTT tests were performed directly at all participating institutions, followed by D-dimer and fibrinogen tests, platelet function test, and plasma-mixing studies in order of frequency. Variations existed in the performance of mixing test and LA assessment. Patterns of coagulating testing differed depending on the size of the hospital. The survey revealed that most laboratories conducted coagulation tests following the international guidelines such as Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines and the Korean Laboratory Certification system. However, some coagulation tests, including mixing test and LA tests, are yet to be standardized in Korea.Continuous education on coagulation test methods and internal and external quality control are required to encourage laboratories to enhance the performance of coagulation testing.

Reference intervals for serum immunoglobulins G, M and E levels in Brazilian children aged 1 to 10 years: a population-based study

ObjectiveTo determine the reference intervals (RI) for serum levels of IgG, IgM, and IgE in healthy children aged 1–10 years living in central Brazil. MethodA sample of 1743 healthy children was randomly selected from kindergartens and public schools. Reference intervals were defined by non-parametric rank (Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute, USA), bootstrapping, and Horn's robust methods. ResultsBy the rank method, the IgG RI was 792–1771 mg/dL for children of both sexes aged 1–10 years. IgM RI were different for gender and age groups, being 45–196 mg/dL and 34–190 mg/dL for boys aged 1–2 years and 3–10 years, respectively. For girls, the IgM RI were 50–212 mg/dL and 39–212 mg/dL, for ages 1–4 and 5–10 years, respectively. The IgE RI for both sexes and ages 1–10 years was 6–1005 mg/dL. The bootstrap method showed RI similar to the rank method but with slightly different confidence intervals. Horn's robust method determined RI different from those obtained by previous methods. ConclusionRI for serum concentrations of IgG, IgM, and IgE were established for Brazilian children aged 1–10 years. This definition will be useful for Brazilian physicians, who will have more adequate parameters for their clinical decision-making.