Coagulase Test Research Articles

Prevalence of Nasal Carriage of Staphylococcus aureus and its Antibiotic Susceptibility among Healthcare Workers (HCWs) in Ukraine

BACKGROUND. Nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus among hospital personnel is a common cause of hospital acquired infections. Emergence of drug resistant strains especially methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA) is a serious problem in hospital environment. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus its antibiotic susceptibility among healthcare workers (HCWs) in Ukraine.
 METHODS. This cross-sectional study was conducted from January to December 2017. The study included medical workers from 19 hospitals in different Ukrainian regions. Nasal swabs were taken from 755 randomly selected HCWs. The mean age of participants was 32.41 ± 8.29 years (range 19—74 years) with a male-to- female ratio of 0.47. The isolates were identified as S. aureus based on morphology, Gram stain, catalase test, coagulase test, and mannitol salt agar fermentation. The sensitivity patterns of S. aureus strains were determined by disk diffusion method (Kirby — Bauer). The panel of antibiotics used in sensitivity tests included: penicillin, oxacillin, cefoxitin, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, gentamicin, tobramicin, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, mupirocin, nitrofurantoin, vancomycin, teicoplanin, fosfomycin, clindamycin, erythromycin, rifampicin, linezolid, tetracycline, tigecycline, trimethoprim/sulphamethoxazole, and fusidic acid. Interpretative criteria were those suggested by the CLSI (Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute). MRSA were confirmed by detection of the mecA gene by polymerase chain reaction.
 RESULTS. Nasal screening identified 31.1 % (235/755) S. aureus carriers. Of the 235 nasal carriers of S. aureus, 4 % (196/755) carried MSSA (methicillin-sensitive S. aureus) and 39/755 (16.6 %) carried MRSA. The frequency of MRSA and MSSA carriage also varied according to the department/ward. The highest prevalence of nasal carriage of MRSA was in the surgical wards. The staff of the general, pediatric, cardiovascular, neuro and orthopedic surgery wards together with the emergency department accounted for 56.4 % of all MRSA carriers. There was no significant difference between the sexes (p = 0.247), age (p = 0.817), and years of healthcare service (p = 0.15) with regard to the nasal carriage of MRSA and MSSA. In univariate analysis we divided the hospital departments into: emergency, internal medicine, pediatrics, ICUs, surgery, and non-medical units and found no significant difference between MSSA and MRSA carriers (p = 0.224). In the multivariate analysis, the occupation «nurse» was independently associated with MRSA carriage (p = 0.012, odds ratio 3.6, 95 % confidence interval 1.3—9.7). All the S. aureus isolates recovered from nasal carriers, were susceptible to linezolid, tigecycline, vancomycin, teicoplanin, and mupirocin. Susceptibility to the other antimicrobials was also on a high level: 98.3 % of strains were found susceptible to trimethoprim/sulphamethoxazole, 96.2 % — to nitrofurantoin, 95.3 % — to fusidic acid, 92.3 % — to fosfomicin, 88.5 % — to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, 87.2 % — to tobramycin, 86.8 % — to clindamycin. Resistance to oxacyllin came up to 16.6 %.
 CONCLUSIONS. Nasal carriage of S. aureus appears to play a key role in the epidemiology and pathogenesis of infection. HCWs who are at interface between the hospital and the community may serve as agents of cross contamination of hospital acquired and community acquired MRSA. It is of importance to follow the evolution of resistance to antibiotics in this species, especially to β-lactams.

TOTAL COLONY CHARACTERIZATION OF AEROBIC BACTERIA OF THE ORAL CAVITY ON PEATLANDS WATER AND PDAM WATER

Background : South Kalimantan peatland water is approximately 8000 km2. Barito Kuala has 40,858 hectares or 90% of the area classified as peatland water. Society uses peatlands water with acidic pH(3.5-4.5) for everyday purposes including rinsing and brushing teeth. The acidic nature of peatland water can affect the growth of bacterial colonies in the oral cavity so that the acidic conditions of the oral cavity increases and the effect on the occurrence of dental caries. In addition PDAM water is water from river water that is processed through several stages to become clean water after filtration and disinfection stages to eliminate microorganisms. Objective : this study aims to determine the characterization of the number of colonies of aerobic bacteria of the oral cavity on peatland water and PDAM water. Methods : This study used quasi experimental method with post test only control group design. The study sample consisted of 30 respondents. Research materials were 4ml of a result of the salivary gargle on peatland water and PDAM water then the number of aerobic bacteria colonies were calculated by the method of TPC (Total Plate Count) and characterization of aerobic bacteria was done by using catalase test, test MSA and coagulase test. Results : This study showed that there were 1653 CFU/ml of aerobic aerobic colony, whereas in water of PDAM there were 1264 CFU/ml of aerobic colonies. In the characterization tests of aerobic bacteria colonies showed that there were Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria on gargle water of peatland or PDAM water. Independent t-test results showed significant differences in aerobic bacterial colonies in peatland water and PDAM water (p = 0.001)(p = 0.002)(p <0.05). Conclusion : Based on this study it can be concluded that the number of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis found in the oral cavity of children saliva who gargled with peatland water are higher than the number of Stapylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis found in the saliva of children who gargle with PDAM water.

Evaluation of Antimicrobial Susceptibility by &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Staphylococcus aureus&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; Isolated from the Nutrition Service of a Teaching Hospital

The bacteria Staphylococcus aureus is found in the nasal passages, mouth and skin of the human population and stands out among foodborne diseases. Some causes of foodborne illness are related with food, handlers, and utensils contamination in a hospital’s nutrition service. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of S. aureus in food handlers, equipment, counter-tops and utensils of the nutrition service of a teaching hospital. Samples of the environment, hands and nasal mucosa of employees of a nutrition service were collected with two sterile swabs, in 2016, March and June. A total of 134 samples were obtained, which were submitted to characterization tests Biochemistry and morphotinorial (gram staining, catalase and coagulase tests in tube), phenotypic evaluation by drug diffusion technique and D-test approach, and the biofilm phenotype characterization by culture on Congo Red Agar. Results showed high rates of S. aureus colonization, mainly in the kitchen, high frequency of antimicrobial resistance, especially erythromycin and the presence of multi-resistant microorganisms. Large number of positive samples was also found for biofilm production, with totality for the samples of handlers. We highlight the relevance of the data in virtue of the serious consequences and risks that can be triggered in the hospital environment.

Isolation and identification of bacterial pathogen from mastitis milk in Central Java Indonesia

Mastitis is a multi-etiologic disease of the mammary gland characterized mainly by reduction in milk production and milk quality due to intramammary infection by pathogenic bacteria. Nearly 83% of lactating dairy cows in Indonesia are infected with mastitis in various inflammation degrees. This study was conducted to isolate and identify the pathogen in milk collected from mastitis-infected dairy cows. The study was carried out in ten smallholder dairy farms in Central Java Indonesia based on animal examination, California mastitis test, isolation bacterial pathogens, Gram staining, Catalase and Coagulase test, and identification of bacteria species using Vitek. Bacteriological examination of milk samples revealed 15 isolates where Streptococcus was predominant species (73.3%) and the coagulase negative Staphylococcus species was identified at the least bacteria (26.7%). The Streptococcus bacteria found were Streptococcus uberis (2 isolates), Streptococcus sanguinis(6 isolates), Streptococcus dysgalactiaessp dysgalactiae(1 isolate) , Streptococcus mitis (1 isolate) and Streptococcus agalactiae (1 isolate). The Staphylococcus isolates comprising of Staphylococcus simulans (1 isolate) and Staphylococcus chromogens (3 isolates). Contamination of raw milkwith pathogenic bacteria can cause outbreaks of human disease (milk borne disease). Thus, proper milk processing method that couldinhibit the growth or kill these pathogenic bacteria is important to ensure the safety of milk and milk products.

Nasal colonization of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus among medical residents in Al-Azhar University Hospital, Damietta branch

Background Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a common nosocomial pathogen that causes infections among healthcare workers. Objective The aim of this study was to detect the prevalence of MRSA among medical residents in different departments of Al-Azhar University Hospital, Damietta branch. Patients and methods Eighty-four medical residents were subjected to a questionnaire that included questions on personal data, occupational experience, antimicrobial intake, infection-control training, and implementation of infection-control programs in the hospital, and a check list that indicated individual adherence to infection-control measures and bacteriological study for isolation and identification of MRSA. Nasal swabs were obtained from 84 residents. The isolates were identified as S. aureus on the basis of morphology, Gram stain, catalase test, coagulase test, mannitol salt agar fermentation, and cefoxitin disc diffusion. Results The overall bacteria-carriage rate among residents was 41 (48.8%). The highest rate was found in ICU [seven (8.3%)], surgery [six (7.1%)], orthopedics [four (4.7%)], and gynecology [four (4.7%)] departments. Nineteen (22.6%) of all infections were S. aureus, 20 (23.8%) were coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, and two (2.4%) were Streptococcus; 15 (17.9%) S. aureus were MRSA strains, whereas four (4.7%) were methicillin-susceptible S. aureus strains. Thus, the nasal carriage rate of MRSA among the participating residents was 15 (17.2%). The overall MRSA carriage rate among residents was 15 (17.8%). The highest rate was found in neurosurgery [three (3.5%)], ICU [two (2.3%)], surgery [two (2.3%)], cardiothoracic [two (2.3%)], and gynecology [two (2.3%)] departments. There was an insignificant association between age, residence, frequency of antibiotic intake, duration of work, and carriage rate of MRSA among the participating healthcare workers. Conclusion We concluded that it is important to detect the carriers of bacteria and ensure decolonization to reduce the transmission of S. aureus in the hospital.

Prevalence of Pododermatitis Caused by Staphylococcus Aureus in Poultry Birds of Jammu

Staphylococcus aureus is known to cause pododermatitis in poultry with significant economic losses. Present study revealed the prevalence of pododermatitis caused by S. aureus in broilers and layers in Jammu India. A total 5400 birds were screened. The pus samples were collected from 119 poultry bird’s foot pad & hock joint using sterile cotton swabs. Isolation and identification of Staphylococcus aureus from samples was done by culturing the sample on different culture media including nutrient, blood and MacConkey’s agars through streaking method and incubated aerobically at 37˚C. Identification of bacterial isolates was performed using conventional metods by making the smear, stained with Gram’s stain and examined under microscope and by biochemical (Catalase and Coagulase tests) procedures. Out of total fifty four hundred cases screened one hundred nineteen cases (2.20 percent) were positive for avian pododermatitis. Among the layers prevalence of pododermatitis caused due to Staphylococcus aureus was 89.65 percent while as in broilers prevalence of pododermatitis caused due to Staphylococcus aureus was found to be 80.64 percent. Prevalence of pododermatitis in backyard poultry caused due to Staphylococcus aureus is 89.28%. The study concluded that Staphylococcus aureus is responsible for pododermatitis in majority of both commercial broilers and layers, with higher prevalence in layers.

A community-based study on nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus among healthy schoolchildren and its antimicrobial susceptibility pattern

BACKGROUND: Invasive infections from Staphylococcus aureus are increasingly being encountered in healthy children. Nasal colonization of S. aureus is associated with increased risk for acquiring invasive disease. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors for S. aureus nasal colonization among a healthy pediatric population and to determine antibiotic susceptibilities of the S. aureus isolates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using a cross-sectional study design, a total of 468 children of age group 5–16 years from 15 different schools of urban Belgaum (Belagavi) located under Ramnagar Urban Health Centre of KLE University's Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, India, were screened for S. aureus colonization. Information on selected risk factors for nasal colonization of S. aureus was obtained through a questionnaire. Samples were obtained from the anterior nares and processed. S. aureus isolates were confirmed by growth on selective media and coagulase testing. Disc diffusion antibiotic susceptibility tests were performed according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standard Institute guidelines. RESULTS: Of the 468 children included in the study, S. aureus was isolated from the anterior nares in 142 (30.3%) children. S. aureus isolates exhibited resistance to multiple classes of antibiotics including co-trimoxazole resistance (19.7%), ciprofloxacin (47.9%), erythromycin resistance (33.1%), clindamycin resistance (4.9%), amoxiclav (1.4%), and linezolid (4.9%). CONCLUSION: Children in India have a high rate of nasal colonization of S. aureus. The high rate of resistance to many classes of antibiotics among S. aureus strains is of great concern warranting continued surveillance and antimicrobial stewardship.

Bioprospecting of clot buster enzyme producing Staphylococcus sp from bovine milk sample

The current study was intended to mitigate the risks posed by Cardiovascular heart diseases(CVD) which is the major cause of mortality and morbidity in the recent years around the world. Staphylococcus produces an enzyme known as Staphylokinase(SAK). In this experiment the SAK producing Staphylococcus sp.,was isolated from the environmental sample (bovine milk) using the selective media (Mannitol salt agar) and further the isolate was allowed to grow on blood agar to check its hemolytic activity.Beta hemolytic colonies were observed on blood agar. The preliminaryscreening of the isolatewere done using Gram Staining, biochemical analysis (catalase and coagulase test) and casein hydrolysis agar assay (for proteolytic activity). The isolate was found to be positive in all preliminary screening tests. Following screening,16S rRNA sequencing was done for species characterization. The Staphylokinasewas produced using the production media(Satoh's media). The enzyme was further extracted and subsequently assayed by Modified Holmstrom method and heated plasma agar assay for thrombolytic and plasmolyticactivity respectively. In Modified Holmstromit was observed that the crude enzyme extracted from the isolate showed thrombolytic activity at concentrations of 100-125µl. Furthermore, the partial purification of the enzyme was done using Ammonium sulphate precipitation.The precipitated protein was then subjected to SDS-PAGE to determine its molecular weight. Also the precipitated protein was then purified using 14 kdaultra filtrationmembrane.As the enzyme was found to be potent in lysing the blood clot, it can be further utilized by the pharmaceutical industries for the production of a clot busting agent which will be useful in treating various cardiac diseases mainly myocardial infarction.

Identification and Antimicrobial Resistance Pattern of Staphylococci Isolated From Cottage Cheese (Ayib) and Yoghurt (Ergo) in Selected Districts of Jimma Zone, Ethiopia

Background: Staphylococci related illness is among serious public-health problems and the second most expensive diseases to treat in developing country. According to WHO estimation, staphylococcal related food borne disease are the second most common food borne disease next to salmonella. Although staphylococci related illness is affecting the majority of Ethiopian, much is not known about the extents of Staphylococcus species and their antimicrobial resistance pattern in cottage cheese (Ayib) and yoghurt (Ergo). Objectives: To investigate the occurrence of Staphylococcus, determine the prevalence of Staphylococcus and evaluate the antimicrobial resistance pattern of the isolates from cottage cheese (Ayib) and yoghurt (Ergo) collected from selected districts of Jimma Zone, Ethiopia. Methods: Identification of staphylococci was undertaken using Gram's staining, catalase, sugar fermentation and coagulase tests on cottage cheese (n=200) and yoghurt (n=200) samples collected randomly. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. Results: The overall prevalence of Staphylococcus in this study was found to be 14.3% with a specific prevalence of 22% in cottage cheese and 6.5% in yoghurt. The difference on the prevalence of staphylococci between cottage cheese and yoghurt was found to be statistically significant (P<0.05). The prevalence of Staphylococcus species was confirmed to be 5%, 3.5%, 3.3% and 5.8% for S. aureus, S. intermedius, S. hyicus and coagulase negative staphylococci (CNS) respectively. The specific prevalence in cheese and yoghurt for each species respectively were 7% and 3% (S. aureus), 5.5% and 1.5% (S. intermedius), 4% and 2.5% (S. hyicus), and 9.5% and 2% (CNS). The contamination of cottage cheese with staphylococcus was more likely to occur than yoghurt (OR=4.1, 95%, CI=2.1-7.8). The disc diffusion assay of 70 isolates against five biogram revealed the highest resistance to penicillin G (65.7%) followed by tetracycline (41.4%), streptomycin (37.1%), gentamycin (35.7%) and kanamycin (28.6%). Conclusion: The high prevalence of Staphylococcus and their high antimicrobial resistance pattern in cottage cheese and yoghurt in this study represent a poor keeping quality and indiscriminate use of drugs at the study area. This suggests the need to implement sanitary measures and awareness creations to improve the hygienic conditions of cheese and yoghurt from farm-to-table continuum as well as proper use of antimicrobials in order to guarantee the quality of these highly popular products and to safeguard the health of the consumers.

Identification and susceptibility of the genus staphylococcus isolated from vegetables and legumes of economic interest

Introduction: Microorganisms of Staphylococcus genus are Gram-positive cocci catalase-positive bacteria of clinical interest due to their pathogenicity in humans and animals. Staphylococcus aureus is part of the normal microbiota and can be responsible for suppurations of wounds, abscesses also it may transmit a toxinfection caused by the intake of toxins elaborated by the infectious agent present in foods. Objectives: Isolation and identification of Staphylococcus in products of economic interest cultivated in Pernambuco. Material and Methods: 25 g of the samples (cassava, carrot, coriander and cabbage) were added in 225 mL of 0.1% peptone saline, serial dilutions until 10-3 were made. The dilutions of 10-2 and 10-3 were seeded in Baird Parker medium and the colonies characteristic of the genus Staphylococcus were identified by the catalase, Gram, coagulase, Carbohydrate (Glucose, Trehalose, Ramnose, Mannose, Maltose, Lactose, Xylose, Sucrose and Inositol) and disc test with Polymyxin and Novobiocin. In addition, the Antibiogram of the isolated colonies was performed using the antibiotics Erythromycin, Vancomycin, Clindamycin, Sulfamethoxazole, Oxacillin, Chloramphenicol, Gentamicin and Ciprofloxacin. Results and Discussion: Eight colonies were isolated: cassava (1), coriander (1), carrot (1) and cabbage (5) and submitted to identification tests. Staphylococcus pasteuri, S. saprophyticus, S. warneri (3), S. hominis subsp. hominis and two classified as coagulase negative Staphylococcus. In the antibiogram 50% of the isolates presented resistance to erythromycin, 12.5% to oxacillin and gentamicin. Conclusion: The majority of the isolates can be found in food and only one causes infections in the urinary tract. No positive coagulase Staphylococcus (Staphylococcus aureus) was found and the samples analyzed were within the standards established by RDC No. 12 of 02/01/2002. A negative coagulase lineage isolated from carrot showed resistance to oxacillin and erythromycin in the antibiogram

Molecular Typing and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Methicillin-ResistantStaphylococcus aureusIsolated from Bovine Milk in Tanzania

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in raw milk can be transmitted from animals to humans, and in Tanzania raw milk is sold in local markets and consumed as purchased. This study was performed to determine the molecular characteristics and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of MRSA strains isolated from raw bovine milk sold at local markets in Tanzania. A total of 117 raw milk samples were cultured on Baird-Parker medium to isolate S. aureus and PCR was used for amplification of gltB gene for S. aureus identification and the presence of mecA gene for methicillin-resistant strains. Coagulase-negative (CN) S. aureus were reconfirmed using tube coagulase, DNase, and API Staph tests. MRSA isolates were spa typed whereas antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed by the disc diffusion method. Forty-six coagulase positives (CP) and two CN S. aureus were identified. Most strains were resistant to penicillin (72%), and 3 isolates: 2 CN S. aureus and 1 coagulase-negative Staphylococci (CNS), were phenotypically resistant to vancomycin, oxacillin, and cefoxitin and were confirmed to carry mecA. Resistance to clindamycin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, and tetracycline was 23.9%, 30.4%, and 41.3%, respectively. Twelve isolates exhibited multidrug resistance; however, only one mecA positive strain among the three was typeable and belonged to spa type t2603. This study reports for the first time the presence of CN variant of MRSA, which was assigned the spa type t2603, and the presence of multidrug resistant S. aureus isolates from bovine milk in Morogoro, Tanzania.

Bacteriological Quality of Ready-to-Eat Meat (Smoked and &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Kilishi&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;) Sold in Nigerian Markets

Nine different samples of ready to-eat meat comprising of three samples of smoked meat bought from hawkers in Ihiala market and three samples bought from hawkers in Danboyi market, Jos. Three samples of kilishi meat were purchased from West Mile market, Jos. These were analyzed to access the public health implications of eating vended ready-to-eat meat. Standard microbiological methods were used for isolation. Morphological and biochemical analysis were carried out on discrete colonies using pure cultures to establish their identities. The biochemical tests utilized include: catalase, oxidase, coagulase, citrate utilization, and urease tests. The result of this study revealed that a total of four Genera were isolated, characterized and identified. The isolates include: Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, Bacillus and Proteus species. Meat from all three sources were contaminated with heterotrophic bacteria. Results revealed that ready-to-eat kilishi and smoked meat studied were grossly contaminated with bacteria. Aseptic precautions should be employed in the processing, packaging and preservation of ready-to-eat meat to avoid outbreak of diseases.

ISOLATION AND PURIFICATION OF STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS SURFACE ANTIGEN B AND USING IT FOR THE DIAGNOSIS BY ELISA TECHNIQUE

Staphylococcus aureus is the most common cause of staphylococcal infections. It is a spherical bacterium, frequently lives on the skin or in the nose of a human.Many tests were done for the diagnosis of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from blood culture, these include: culture, gram stain, catalase test, coagulase test and diagnosis by Vitek system. The results appear that 90% were (H7) isolates while 10% were other isolate.Chromatography technique was used for extraction, purification and isolation of the antigen (enterotoxin B) from the cell wall of Staphylococcus aureus.ELISA technique was used for the detection of enterotoxin B.This antigen (enterotoxin B) was employed for the production of diagnostic ELISA kit against staphylococci (particularly for Iraqi peoples).

Isolation and Characterization of Halotolerant Bacteria from Ezzu River Amansea, Awka, Anambra State

Halotolerant bacteria are microorganisms that can grow over a large variety of salt concentrations but thrive better in low salinities. This group of bacteria is known to be diverse in nature and can be isolated from the soil, water, and even some rocks. Their compatible solutes serve as survival mechanism when the organisms are exposed to high salinities. Halotolerant bacteria have been applied in the production of antimicrobial substances, in food biotechnology, in biological waste treatment, and in the use of Biosurfactants for bioremediation purposes. Halotolerant bacteria are made up of both Gram-positive bacteria and Gram-negative bacteria in different genera like Staphylococcus, Micrococcus, Bacillus, and Pseudomonas. This research emphasized on the isolation of halotolerant bacteria from Ezzu River, Amansea, Awka, Anambra state using nutrient medium supplemented with different salt (sodium chloride) concentrations and Marine Agar. Pour plate method was used for the isolation of the bacterial strains. The isolates which were yellow and creamy white in color were labeled A, B, and C and their morphological characteristics, noted. They were further Gram stained. The three isolates were Gram-positive cocci and appeared in clusters. They were non-motile. Further characterization was done using biochemical test: catalase test, coagulase test, citrate, and urease and carbohydrate fermentation of different sugars. After the analyses carried out on the three isolates, the halotolerant bacteria suspected to be present in Ezzu River, Anambra state were Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus lentus, and Micrococcus luteus.

Trichomoniasis and associated co-infections of the genital tract among pregnant women presenting at two hospitals in Ghana

BackgroundTrichomonas vaginalis (TV) infection is the most prevalent non-viral sexually transmitted pathogen worldwide. Among pregnant women, the infection may cause adverse birth outcomes such as premature rupture of membranes and premature labour. In view of the paucity of information relating to TV among Ghanaian pregnant women, this study investigated its prevalence and associated co-infections among pregnant women.MethodsHigh vaginal swabs were obtained from 99 pregnant women using sterile cotton swab sticks. Wet preparation, Grams staining, culturing, coagulase and sensitivity testing were carried out to determine the presence of TV and associated microorganisms.ResultsThe prevalence of TV among the pregnant women was found to be 20.2% (n = 20). Concurring with Trichomoniasis, 75% (n = 15) of participants had other infections such as Candida with prevalence of 53% (n = 8), Proteus infection - 20% (n = 3), Streptococcus infection - 13% (n = 2) and other GNRs and Gonococci having 7% each (n = 1). Moreover, there was 86.9% (n = 86) prevalence of Staphylococcus spp. among study participants. There was statistically significant correlation between TV and Gonococci infection at a correlation co-efficient of 0.107 (P < 0.05) as well as significant correlation between TV and Proteus spp. at a correlation co-efficient of 0.189 (P < 0.05). TV infection was high (60%) among the most sexually active age group (19 to 29 yrs).ConclusionThere was 20.2% prevalence of TV among the pregnant women presenting at the hospitals, with Gonococci and Proteus infections being statistically significant associated infections.

Characterization of Staphylococcus spp. strains in milk from buffaloes with mastitis in Brazil: the need to identify to species level to avoid misidentification

ABSTRACT Mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary gland that affects dairy cattle worldwide causing economic losses. Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) are the predominant cause of this type of infection. We have recently showed that coagulase-positive staphylococci could be misidentified. So, the aim of this study was to characterize the Staphylococcus spp. strains initially classified as coagulase-negative Staphylococci, isolated from buffalo with subclinical mastitis. Milk of buffaloes with mastitis in herds was collected and 9 strains were identified as CNS by phenotypic tests. Molecular methodologies latter identified the strains as coagulase-negative Staphylococcus chromogenes (5), coagulase-positive Staphylococcus hyicus (2) and coagulase-positive Staphylococcus aureus (2). Our results strongly support the need to identify the isolates to a species level in order to avoid misidentification and to be aware of the classification using the coagulase test alone.

Coagulase gene polymorphism and antimicrobial susceptibility of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from bovine subclinical mastitis milk in Sidi-Bel-Abbes, Algeria

The study was conducted to identify and characterize Staphylococcus aureus in raw milk derived from subclinical mastitis in Sidi-Bel-Abbes Algeria. In this paper, we explore the possibility of detection of the coagulase gene (coa), which encodes the coagulase enzyme, by PCR analysis in antibiotic-resistant isolates, with the latex agglutination phenotype and free coagulase.Out of 336 samples of raw milk examined with California mastitis test (CMT) posi-tive; a total of 142 samples were bacteriologically positive with 56.34% Staphylococcus isolates, 21 (26.25%) isolates were confirmed as S.aureus. Nineteen (90.48%) isolates of S.aureus showed free coagulase on the tube agglutination test. Two atypical S.aureus strains (9.52%) were defective for the clumping factor and / or protein A , determined with the Staphytect plus test and the tube coagulase test. The isolates of S.aureus were resistant to penicillin and tetracycline with 76.19%. Two isolates (9.52%) of S.aureus re-sistant to meticillin (MRSA) were detected in this study, with a MIC of ≥4 μg / liter and a cefoxitin screen test with a MIC of ≥8 μg / liter, and 13 (61.9%) isolates were with a multiresistance phenotype. The 21 isolates were sub-jected to PCR amplification of the 3' end of the coa gene, 18 (85.71%) were revealed on a 1% agarose gel with a single band between 547 bp and 875 bp. The use of the PCR genotypic test to identify the profile of the coa gene can be used as an appropriate identification criterion for differentiating coagulases from S.aureus and for understanding their epidemiology.

Antibiotic resistance patterns of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolated from livestock and associated farmers in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.

The animal husbandry comes to play an important role according to new economic reforms of the rural economy in South Asia including Sri Lanka, and the rural farming community has a poor knowledge about hygienic issues of animal husbandry, which can lead to spread of pathogenic bacterial strains from animals to humans. Our study was conducted to evaluate methicillin susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonization and its antimicrobial resistance pattern among livestock (n=188) and related farmers (n=94) in Anuradhapura District, Sri Lanka. S. aureus isolates were identified using mannitol salt agar, coagulase test and DNAase test. The agar plate dilution method was conducted to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of oxacillin against S. aureus. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing for other antibiotics was performed against MRSA isolates using antibiotic containing discs. To assess the MRSA transmission from livestock to humans, we have grouped MRSA strains according to antimicrobial susceptibility patterns against the tested antibiotics. Among MRSA isolates, 14 different groups with similar MIC and antibiotic susceptibility patterns were identified. Of those, 2 groups amongst pigs and pig farmers showed a significant relationship (p=0.031). The other groups did not show any significant relationship between animals and the farmers. The percentages of MRSA prevalence in pigs and pig farmers were 26.6% each, in poultry and poultry farmers 8.3% and 13.3% respectively, in cattle and cattle farmers 8.3% and 3%. Compared to human MRSA isolates, animal isolates were significantly more resistant to ciprofloxacin (p=0.031), gentamicin (p=0.010) and clindamycin (p=0.011). Similarly, animal methicillin susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) isolates were significantly more resistant to ciprofloxacin (p=0.022) and doxycycline (p=0.012). Pig farming showed a higher prevalence and 2.4 times higher risk (OR=2.4, CI95%: 1.2-4.8) of likely transmission of MRSA between animals and humans than cattle and poultry farming. Overall, 65% of MRSA and MSSA animal isolates were multidrug resistant.

Staphylococcus Aureus Nasal Carriage Among Medical Staff In AL-Nasiriyah Teaching Hospital ,Thi-Qar,Iraq.

Background : nasal carrier of Staphylococcus aureus is a common health problem world wide.Objective: The present study was conducted to assess the epidemiology of Staphylococcus aureus nasal carriers among hospital staff in AN- Nasiriyah teaching Hospital ,Thi-Qar ,Iraq. Patients and methods: Nasal swabs were taken from each of 140 personnel. After culturing on blood agar for overnight, probablestaphylococcal isolates were identified and subjected to tube Coagulase test. After a two-week interval, second nasal swabs were taken from the subjects whose first cultures were positive for S. aureus.Results: Nasal carriage was defined in 31 (22.14%) personnel with positive culture for both sampling time. 74.19% are penicillin resistant, most of them are methicillin sensitive but 2 cases (1.43%) are thicillin resistant Conclusion: Staphylococcus aureus nasal carriage is a common health problem all over the world and methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus is an emerging subject even in our community ,which requires further attention and support.

Urea-Fibrinogen Slide Coagulase Test – A Simple Alternative Method for the Rapid Identification of Staphylococcus aureus

Introduction: The accurate identification of Staphylococcus aureus clinical isolates requires a series of tests. Morphological features and slide coagulase test are two criteria on which S. aureus are identified. Resort to tube coagulase test is sought when results of slide coagulase test are equivocal or doubtful. Both coagulase tests detect the enzymes that convert fibrinogen into fibrin. Human, rabbit or sheep pooled plasma is used as substrate for both tests. Slide coagulase test is simpler and faster as compared to tube coagulase test. The plasma could be carrier of many human and animal pathogens like HIV, HBV, HCV etc. Storage of plasma for longer duration is fraught with chances of contamination. Improperly stored plasma can lead to false positive or negative results. Citrated plasma may be unsuitable for this test if contaminated with citrate utilizing bacteria. Considering the role of S. aureus as a common etiological agent in nosocomial and community infections, there is a need of implementing rapid, easy and cost-effective phenotypic test.Objectives: Considering the disadvantages and risks associated with fresh plasma, this study aims to launch for safer, more reliable substitute with longer shelf life that may provide reliable results for prompt identification of S. aureus by slide coagulase test.Methods: The present work evaluates slide coagulase test (SCT), and urea fibrinogen slide coagulase test (UF-SCT) for S. aureus detection considering Tube coagulase test (TCT) as the reference method. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive values of SCT and UF-SCT were calculated using TCT as gold standard. Results: A total of 150 staphylococcal isolates from different clinical specimens ere selected for the evaluation of coagulase tests. All the specimens were subjected to SCT, UF-SCT and TCT. The UF-SCT showed better sensitivity (95.04%), specificity (100%), PPV (100%), and NPV (82.85%) with reference to TCT. UF-SCT showed similar sensitivity and specificity to SCT. None of the isolates were negative in UF-SCT and positive in SCT. Since UF-SCT does not incorporate plasma directly and at the same time has a very good sensitivity and specificity, it is recommended that UF-SCT could replace SCT for identification of S. aureus.Conclusion: The findings of present study shall encourage laboratories to use the urea-fibrinogen slide coagulase test routinely for the rapid identification of S aureus.Journal of Gandaki Medical College Vol. 10, No. 1, 2017, Page: 5-10