Disc Diffusion Method Research Articles

Synthesis, Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity of New 4-aminoantipyrine Derivatives Using Ultrasonic Mediation

تم استخدام تفاعل المباشر, ذو وعاء واحد، ثلاثي المكونات بين الألديهايدات الاروماتيه المعوضه, 2-نافثول و4- أمينو أنتيبيرين لتخليق سلسلة جديده من 4-(((2-hydroxynaphthalen-1-yl) (phenyl) methylene) amino)-1,5-dimethyl-2-phenyl-1,2-dihydro-3H-pyrazol-3-one (A1- A5) لقد أجريت هذا التفاعل بأستخدام كلوريد الزركونيل كمحفز فعال في حالة التشعيع بالموجات فوق الصوتية. في الحقيقة أن هذه المشتقات لديها قدره على العمل كمواد أساسية في تكوين مركبات جديده 4- (1H-naphtho [1,2-e] [1,3] oxazin-2(3H)-yl)-2-phenyl-1, 5-dimethyl-1,2-dihydro-3H-pyrazol-3-one(A6, A7 and A8). وبالمثل, تم استخدام MCRs التي أدت إلى تكوين مركب حلقي غير متجانس (1،3-نافثوكسازين( وتضمنت تفاعل 4- أمينو أنتي بييرين, و الفورمالديهايد و 2-نافثول بنسبة مول 1: 2: 1 لتكوين , 4-(1H-naphtho [1,2-e] [1,3] oxazin-2(3H)-yl)-2-phenyl-1-5 dimethyl-1,2-dihydro-3H-pyrazol-3-one (A9)1 يبدأ هذا التفاعل بأدخال نظام محفزZrOCl2-K2CO3 ويستمر من خلال التكثيف وتكوين الحلقه. ثم تحليل جميع المركبات المنتجه من خلال بيانات أطياف IR و H1 NMR و C13 NMR لتوضيح عمل هذه المركبات المميزه. باستخدام طريقة التخفيف الدقيق للمرق وطريقة نشر القرص، تم تقييم الأنشطة المضادة للبكتيريا (إيجابية الجرام وسالبة الجرام) والفطريات و مقارنة بالأدوية التقليدية (امبيسلين, سيبروفلوكساسين و اموكسيسلين). كان للمركبات المحضرة مجموعة واسعة من التأثير بقيم MIC من 200 600, و 1000ميكروغرام / مل ضد البكتيريا التي تم فحصها ، كما هو محدد بواسطة التحليل الميكروبيولوجي.

Uropathogens and their antibiotic susceptibility patterns among diabetic patients at st. john of god hospital, duayaw nkwanta, Ghana: a cross-sectional study.

Uropathogens are microorganisms that cause urinary tract infections (UTIs). Owing to higher blood glucose levels and compromised immune functions, treatment of uropathogens in diabetic patients is a challenge. This study aims to assess the prevalence of uropathogens and their antibiotic susceptibility among diabetic patients at St. John of God Hospital at Duayaw Nkwanta (SJGHDN) in the Ahafo region of Ghana. The cross-sectional study recruited 175 diabetic patients at SJGHDN between August and September 2023. Questionnaires were used to collect patients' background information. Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) was assessed by using a glucometer. Urine samples were examined for the presence of uropathogens. A sterile inoculating loop with a calibrated volume of 2 µl was used for plating. Each colony equals 500 CFU/mL. Significant uropathogen was determined by multiplying the counted colonies by 500 to obtain CFU/mL. Positive uropathogen was defined as CFU ≥ 105/mL. Significant uropathogen was defined as ≥200 colonies per sample. The disc diffusion method was used to determine antibiotic susceptibility. Out of the 175 patients, 19.4% expressed various uropathogens with Escherichia coli being the predominant. Suboptimal glucose level was the most significant risk factor (p = 0.038). Glucosuria (p = 0.036), hazy urine (p = 0.028), positive leukocyte esterase (p = 0.001), and pus cells in urine sediment (p = 0.020) were significant indicators of uropathogen occurrence. Klebsiella pneumonia and Proteus mirabilis were resistant to ≥4 antibiotics. Amikacin, nitrofurantoin, levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, and ceftriaxone demonstrated efficacy against the isolates. This study underscores the notable prevalence of uropathogens in diabetic patients and the alarming levels of antibiotic resistance observed. The results highlight the critical need for vigilant monitoring and customized treatment approaches, particularly for diabetic patients exhibiting risk factors such as elevated urine glucose levels, cloudy urine, and presence of leukocyte esterase and pus cells in urine sediment. The significant resistance to frequently used antibiotics like co-trimoxazole and tetracycline points to the necessity of routine susceptibility testing and the use of alternative antibiotics for effective treatment. These findings can assist healthcare providers in more effectively managing and preventing UTIs in diabetic populations.

Antimicrobial Activity of Euphorbia helioscopia L. Against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) In Vitro.

Antimicrobial resistance is currently one of the most significant threats to medical science, necessitating the exploration of new antimicrobial agents. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) can lead to various severe conditions such as endocarditis, meningitis, abscesses, and sepsis, and conventional antibiotics such as beta-lactams are ineffective for treating these diseases. Therefore, it is imperative to search for novel chemical substances with antimicrobial effects against MRSA. This study aimed to investigate the bioactive chemical compound extracts isolated fromEuphorbia helioscopiaL. plant material against clinical samples of MRSA collected from the Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kaunas Clinics. Methodology: Bioactive compounds from the aboveground parts ofEuphorbia helioscopiaL. were isolated using methanol extraction of herbal material followed by lyophilization. The total phenolic compound concentration was determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu method.Antioxidant power was assessed through the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, chemical composition was analyzed via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and antimicrobial activity against MRSA was evaluated using the disc diffusion method. The lyophilized extract of Euphorbia helioscopia L. exhibited antimicrobial activity against two out of five strains of MRSA. Seven phenolic compounds were identified, three of which were not previously reported as constituents of Euphorbia helioscopia L. More than a third of the isolated compounds were phenolic compounds. Conclusion: Euphorbia helioscopia L. exhibits antimicrobial properties effective against certain strains of MRSA.

Plant extract-mediated biosynthesis of sulphur nanoparticles and their antibacterial and plant growth-promoting activity

This study reports green synthesis of sulphur nanoparticles using sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate (Na2S2O35H2O) and Cannabis sativa leaf extracts. X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to examine the crystallinity of the particles and morphological characteristics, proved both spherical and rod-shaped morphology of the S NPs having porous nature. The FTIR spectra revealed the interaction of the synthesized SNPs with the biomolecules present in the leaf extract. UV–VIS spectral investigations confirmed the production of SNPs from C. sativa leaf extract and that these SNPs can be used for visible region photocatalysis for the removal of pollutants from wastewater. Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectrum of the SNP shows a single peak around 2.4 keV, confirmed S NPs purity. TEM image revealed the formation of mainly nanorods having a width of ∼20–25 nm and a length of 50–100 nm. Furthermore, some spherical particles (∼20–30 nm) were also formed. HRTEM image of the rod-shaped particles clearly shows the crystal fringe spacing of 0.38 nm. Further, disc diffusion method (DDM) was used to check the antibacterial activity of S NPs against gram-positive S. aureus (MTCC737) 18 ± 0.12 mm and gram-negative bacteria against E. coli (MTCC443) 21.5 ± 0.12 mm, A. salmonicida (MTCC1522) 19.1 ± 0.12 mm, K. pneumoniae (MTCC3384) 17.8 ± 0.10 mm. Among all the strains of bacteria, E. coli (MTCC443) showed a maximum zone of inhibition of 21.5 ± 0.12 mm and its antibacterial activity is somewhat like streptomycin sulfate. These SNPs also promote growth of C. sativa in pot experiment, resulting in a 30 % increase in biomass, 90 cm in shoot length and 28 cm in root length and higher fresh and dry weight (50g and 20g, respectively) with 1.0 mg mL−1 NPs treatment. In addition, SEM-EDX confirmed the accumulation of nanomaterial in plant leaves. This environmentally friendly approach to SNP synthesis using C. sativa extracts demonstrates both potent antibacterial properties and plant growth-promoting effects, making it a promising solution for agriculture and biomedicine.

The in vitro Antimicrobial Effects of Hydrolysable and Condensed Tannin Extracts on Escherichia coli Isolated from Pathological Samples of Deceased Poultry

Abstract Colibacillosis, caused by avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC), is one of the most prevalent and economically damaging bacterial diseases affecting poultry globally. Managing colibacillosis is difficult and frequently ineffective because APEC strains have developed widespread resistance to antibiotics, and the strict regulations and public concerns towards using antimicrobial agents in poultry further complicate the situation. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial properties of hydrolysable (sweet chestnut extract) and condensed (quebracho extract) tannins on Escherichia coli (E. coli) isolates from poultry, exploring their potential as antibiotic alternatives in managing colibacillosis. E. coli was isolated from the internal organs of deceased poultry across 18 farms, including layers, broilers, and broiler breeders. Each isolate was assessed for the presence of APEC strain predictors (virulence genes iutA, hlyF, iss, iroN, and ompT), antimicrobial resistance to 14 antibiotics using the disc diffusion method, and the presence of resistance genes for specific antibiotics (ampicillin, gentamicin, tetracycline, and quinolones). Out of 43 isolates, 27 (62.8%) were classified as APEC, 30 (69.8%) showed resistance to three or more antibiotic classes, and 32 (74.4%) carried at least one AMR gene. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for the hydrolysable tannins from sweet chestnut extract (Castanea sativa Mill.) (SwCh) ranged from 0.5 to 3 mg/mL, while for the condensed tannins from quebracho extract (Schinopsis lorentzii) (Que), the MICs ranged from 1.5 to 4.5 mg/mL. The results indicate that both hydrolysable and condensed tannins possess significant in vitro antimicrobial activity against APEC, offering a potentially valuable alternative for controlling colibacillosis in the poultry industry.

Comparison of Dracocephalum Moldavica Essential Oil with Chlorhexidine on Cariogenic Bacteria.

Dental caries and periodontal disease are the most common oral problems. Chemical antibacterial agents often have side effects; thus, researchers have long been in search for organic and herbal products to prevent dental caries and periodontal disease. The present study has aimed to assess the effects of Dracocephalum moldavica essential oil on Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus salivarius, Streptococcus sobrinus, and Lactobacillus acidophilus compared to Chlorhexidine (CHX). In this in vitro study, the plants were collected from Zanjan Province, Iran. Analysis of the essential oil was carried out by gas chromatography/mass chromatography. Micro-broth dilution and disc diffusion methods were used for assessment of the antimicrobial activity, and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were evaluated. The mean diameter of the growth inhibition zones in the well plate method for Dracocephalum moldavica showed that it had greater antimicrobial activity against Lactobacillus acidophilusthan others (p Value= 0.01). Furthermore, Dracocephalum moldavica had higher antimicrobial activity than CHX. The results of MIC and MBC showed that Dracocephalum moldavica had lower antibacterial activity than CHX. Dracocephalum moldavica essential oil demonstrated antibacterial properties against cariogenic bacteria. Given that other favorable properties of these essential oils are confirmed, they may be suitable for use as antibacterial agents in the formulation of oral healthcare products.

Prevalence of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance genes in extended-spectrum beta-lactamase producing Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates in northern Iran

Plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) in extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) contributes to treatment failures, extended hospital stays, and increased mortality percentages. We aimed to determine the prevalence of PMQR genes in ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae isolates from clinical samples in Babol, North of Iran region. This is the first study in this region to investigate this specific association. A total of 95 K. pneumoniae isolates were obtained from hospitalized patients with various clinical infections during March 2022 to February 2023. Disk diffusion and Combination disk method were performed to identification of antimicrobial resistance profiles and ESBL-producing strains. The presence of ESBL and PMQR genes among K. pneumoniae isolates was assessed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Of the isolates, 68 (71.57 %) were considered as ESBL-producers. The blaTEM, blaSHV and blaCTX-M genes were detected in 74.73 %, 57.89 %, and 41.05 % of K. pneumoniae isolates, respectively. Among the PMQR encoding genes, the highest and lowest frequency was associated to qepA (67.3 %) and qnrA (4.2 %), respectively. The frequency of qnrA, qnrB, qnrS, acc (6′)-Ib-cr, qepA, oqxA, and oqxB genes in 26 MDR-Kp isolates was 11.53 % (n; 3), 69.23 % (n; 18), 65.38 % (n; 17), 73.07 % (n; 19), 80.76 % (n; 21), 84.61 % (n; 22), and 76.92 % (n; 20), respectively. Our result revealed of the 68 ESBL gene-positive isolates, 60 (88.23 %) were positive for the PMQR gene. The co-occurrence of these genes within resistant isolates suggests potential linkage on mobile genetic elements such as plasmids. These findings highlight the significant burden of PMQR determinants in ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae and underscore the urgent need for effective control measures. Implementing robust antimicrobial stewardship programs and strengthening drug-resistance surveillance and control protocols are crucial to prevent the spread of resistant isolates.

Hypermucoviscous Klebsiella Pneumoniae Caused Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia.

The incidence of hypermucoviscous Klebsiella pneumoniae (hmvKp), which complicates community-acquired pneumonia, has been increasing recently. This study aimed to detect hypermucoviscous K. pneumoniae and determine its antimicrobial susceptibility pattern in adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia in Northwest Ethiopia. This cross-sectional study included 39 K. pneumoniae isolates identified by using Gram stain, culture, and biochemical tests from 312 adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Referral Hospital from April to June 2021. The hypermucoviscous strains were identified by using the string test. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed by using the Kirby-Bauer disk dif-fusion method. Data were entered by using EPI data version 4.6 and were analyzed by using SPSS version 20. A p-value ≤ 0.05 at a 95% confidence interval was considered statistically significant. Overall, 35.9% (n = 14) of the 39 K. pneumoniae isolates were hypermucoviscous phenotype. The mean age of the hmvKp group was lower than of the cKp group (36.93 ± 12.573 vs. 53.52 ± 19.556 years, p = 0.007). All hmvKp isolates were resistant to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Azithromycin resistance in the hmvKp strains was significantly higher than in the cKp group (p = 0.012). This study demonstrates that the hmvKp phenotype causes community-acquired pneumonia and a full resistance to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Antimicrobial resistance was higher in the hmvKp strain than in the classic strains. Further detection of resistance genes, capsular serotypes, hypermucoviscosity-related genes, and virulence genes is necessary.

Assessing β-Carboline Analogues As Antibiotic Agent Using In Vitro Studies

The mortality rate caused by bacterial diseases and bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant concern in global public health. There is an urgent demand for new therapeutic agents that not only offer improved efficiency but also entail fewer secondary effects, addressing the challenges posed by the currently available drugs used in clinical practice. In this study, 40 analogues of β-carboline were subjected to solubility tests to determine their solubility. Among them, 22 analogues proved to be soluble and were subsequently tested for in vitro antibacterial activity using the agar disc diffusion method against S. aureus and E. coli to evaluate their effectiveness. The results of the in vitro antibacterial studies revealed that compounds 1h, 7d, and 1l displayed appreciable growth-inhibitory effects against E. coli, while compounds 1a, 1f, 1l, and 1j exhibited appreciable growth-inhibitory effects against S. aureus. Notably, compounds 1j and 1l displayed the highest growth-inhibitory potency against S. aureus and E. coli, respectively, out of the 22 compounds tested. Of all the analogues examined, 1l and 1j demonstrated the most substantial growth-inhibitory effects against E. coli and S. aureus, respectively, underscoring their potential as inhibitors.

"Characterization Of Acinetobacter Baumannii Resistance And Prevalence In Icu Settings: Insights From A Retrospective Study."

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and antibiotic resistance patterns of Acinetobacter baumannii isolated from ICU patients at a tertiary care hospital. Understanding these patterns is crucial for informing infection control strategies and treatment protocols. Material and methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Microbiology, Government Medical College & New Civil Hospital, Surat. Clinical samples from ICUs were analyzed from January 2023 to December 2023. A total of 4,432 samples were processed for culture and sensitivity testing. Identification of A. baumannii was performed using Gram staining, motility tests, and biochemical tests. Antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method on Mueller-Hinton agar, with results interpreted according to CLSI guidelines. Results: Out of 4,432 samples, 650 showed significant bacterial growth. Acinetobacter baumannii was identified in 144 samples, accounting for 22% of all ICU culture-positive cases. The highest number of isolates was from the Medical ICU (MICU), representing 44% of total isolates. Over 95% of A. baumannii isolates were multidrugresistant (MDR). Resistance rates were highest for Ceftriaxone and Imipenem (92%), followed by Cefepime (90.2%). Colistin susceptibility was observed in all pan-drug-resistant isolates. Discussion: The high prevalence of A. baumannii in ICU-acquired infections and the observed multidrug resistance highlight a significant challenge in managing these infections. The resistance patterns are consistent with recent studies, confirming the persistent difficulty in treating A. baumannii infections with conventional antibiotics. The effectiveness of Colistin for pan-drug-resistant isolates underscores its continued relevance, despite concerns about potential side effects. Conclusion: The study reveals a high prevalence of multidrug-resistant A. baumannii in ICU settings, emphasizing the urgent need for effective infection control measures and antimicrobial stewardship. Continuous monitoring and stringent infection prevention practices are essential to combat the growing threat of A. baumannii in ICU environments

Characterization of Metronidazole, Clarithromycin and Amoxicillin Resistance Genes in Helicobacter pylori Isolated from Gastroenteritis Patients.

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)is a Gram-negative, microaerophilic, and spiral shape bacterium that resides inside the human stomach. The human stomach serves as its primary reservoir. Complaints about stomach complication due to H. pylori infections are reported in the majority of populations around the globe. Chronic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia of the gastric mucosa are major complications of a long-term H. pylori infections that can lead to gastric cancer in severe cases. This study aims to characterize H. pylori isolates from gastroenteritis patients and to determine the resistance of H. pylori to various antibiotics. In the current study, a total of (n = 80) gastric biopsy samples were randomly collected from gastroenteritis patients in brain-heart infusion broth. These were inoculated on Columbia blood agar supplemented with Helicobacter pylori selective supplement (DENT). After culturing, Microscopy and biochemical tests were performed. The susceptibility profile of H. pylori isolates was evaluated using the Kirby Bauer disk diffusion method. On the basis of the drug resistance profile, a total of (n = 20) isolates including (n = 10) from females and (n = 10) from males were selected for the detection and characterization of resistant genes. After confirmation of H. pylori using 16s rRNA, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was done for the detection of resistance genes including Metronidazole resistance (rdxA gene), Clarithromycin resistance (23s rRNA gene) and Amoxicillin resistance (Penicillin-binding protein A1 (pbpA1) gene). In a total of (n = 80) samples, H. pylori was isolated from 72.5% (n = 58) samples. Among the positive patients, there were 62% (n = 36) of female positive patients while in males, its ratio was 38% (n = 22). It was more common in the age between 30-50 years 55.17% (n = 32). It has shown the highest resistance towards Metronidazole 90% (n = 52), and the lowest toward Levofloxacin 65% (n = 38). Metronidazole resistance gene (rdxA gene) was detected in (n = 13) isolates including (n = 9) isolates from females and (n = 4) from males. In the case of, the Clarithromycin resistance gene (23s rRNA) (n = 10) was positive for H. pylori including (n = 6) isolates from females and (n = 7) were positive for Amoxicillin (pbpA1 gene) including (n = 2) in female and (n = 5) from male patients. This study highlights the increasing incidence of H. pylori infections in both male and female patients. It also revealed the current status of antibiotic resistance and its resistance genes in patients facing gastrointestinal issues. Continuous surveillance of resistant clones will help in formulating strategies that can help in combating of resistant clone. It will also help clinician in proper prescription and management of H. pylori infections.

A first study of meat-borne enterococci from butcher shops: prevalence, virulence characteristics, antibiotic resistance and clonal relationship.

IntroductionEnterococcus, which used to be thought of as a harmless commensal living in the digestive tract, has now become a highly resistant and highly contagious pathogen that makes nosocomial infections much more common. This study examined enterococci species and their antibiotic resistance phenotypes and genotypes and virulence gene content in Turkish ground beef samples. Methodology A total of 100 ground beef samples were analyzed between May 2020 and May 2021. The isolated strains were identified via matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) and confirmed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) after which they were divided into several species using PCR and tested for antibiotic resistance against 19 antimicrobial agents using the disc diffusion method. The genetic similarity analysis, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) was performed. Results A total of 93 isolates in ground beef were identified, comprised of E. faecalis 72.04%; E. hirae- 11.82%; E. casseliflavous- 7.52%; E. faecium- 5.3%; E. gallinarium- 3.23%. The virulence genes observed in Enterococcus species were distributed as follows: gelE 88.1%, ace 53.7%, efaA 40.8%, asaI 19.3%, esp 6.4%, and cylA 1.07%. A high antibiotic resistance was recorded for tetracycline (43.01%), followed by ampicilin (17.2%), and chloramphenicol (13.9%). 17.2% of Enterococcus isolates were multidrug-resistant. The study determined the high prevalence of antibiotic resistance genes, specifically for tet(L) 10 (10.7%), aac(6')Ie-aph(2")-la 3 (3.2%), and ermB 3 (3.2%). The presence of efflux pump genes were identified in 74.1% of Enterococcus isolates. Genetic characterization of 67 E. faecalis isolates by PFGE revealed 41 pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) patterns that were grouped into 15 clusters, which presented more than one strain with 100% similarity. Conclusion Isolates obtained from several areas and butchers had comparable patterns of PFGE, suggesting that the presence of circulating E. faecalis poses a potential public health concern in diverse districts. To mitigate the health hazards associated with the contamination of enterococci from raw to cooked meats, it is necessary to enhance the disinfection of butcheries, promote excellent hand hygiene among butchers, and implement appropriate meat storage and handling methods to prevent bacterial development.

The potential effect of peel extracts of banana varieties: an in-vitro assessment

Background: Assamese cuisine is known for its use of kolakhar, a traditional ingredient; Rhizome, the skin and stem of bananas, can be used to make it. An ash filter from a banana tree is used to produce antacids. The word: kol” or “kola” is a local term for banana. In Assam, India, kolakhar is a common food additive and traditional ingredient. Method: Water is filtered through banana tree ashes to create this. The banana peel is burned after it has been dried. The ash is subsequently blended with water and left overnight. The mixture is filtered through a fine cloth once the ash has settled to the bottom of the container by the following morning. Several studies were carried out by evaluating the preparation of peel extract, Physicochemical parameters, antioxidant activity, etc. followed by some analytical methods to find the biologically active components, potential uses, and additional benefits of banana peels beyond what they currently serve as waste products. Finally, an antimicrobial study was performed by using the disc diffusion method. In this study, 4 different types of banana species investigated sought to determine the antioxidant capacity, antimicrobial activity, FT-IR, and UV to determine which one is better. Result: The physicochemical parameters, analytical technique, and assay provide an overview of the chemical characteristics, phytoconstituents, and food safety of kolakhar, which contribute to its unique properties in both traditional medicine and culinary applications. Conclusion: In conclusion, depending on the banana type used, banana peel extracts exhibit considerable promise as organic antioxidants and antibacterial agents. Therefore, considering all parameters, we obtained various potential effects from this study. The results are discussed with a graphical representation of the banana peel extract.

Assessing the Antibacterial Effectiveness against MDR Strains and the Antioxidant Characteristics of Ficus auriculata

For millennia, people have successfully treated a wide range of illnesses, including bacterial infections, with different plant parts or extracts. “MDR strain” typically refers to a “multi-drug resistant strain” of a bacteria. In the context of infectious diseases, a multi-drug resistant strain refers to a strain of the pathogen that has acquired resistance to multiple drugs that are commonly used to treat infections caused by that specific pathogen. MDR strains can present significant challenges in healthcare settings as they limit the effectiveness of standard treatments and may require more aggressive or specialized approaches to manage the infection. The discdiffusion method was used in this investigation to test the antimicrobial properties of Petroleum ether, acetone, ethanol, methanol, and aqueous extracts of Ficus auriculata leaves against four bacterial strains namely Salmonella enteric serovar typhi, Salmonella enteric ser Paratyphi (MDR strain) Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. The findings showed that all of the investigated organisms (zone of inhibition of 0.5 ± 0.15 & 18 ± 1.7 mm) were significantly inhibited by the petroleum ether, ethanol, and methanol extracts, with the exception of Salmonella typhi (an 18 mm inhibitory zone). The restricted area (≤5) indicated moderate activity in the aqueous extracts. It’s crucial to remember that antimicrobial activity analysis of plant extracts is just one step in the process of identifying potential natural antimicrobial agents. Further studies, including the identification and isolation of specific bioactive compounds, toxicology assessments, and clinical trials, are required before any plant extract can be considered for use as a drug development.

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF CORN SILK EXTRACT AGAINST DENTAL CARIES-CAUSING BACTERIA AND ITS FORMULATION IN MOUTHWASH PREPARATION

Indonesia is undergoing a dental caries emergency with a prevalence of 51.1% (Riskesdas, 2018). This may cause tooth decay due to dental plaque bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans. Mouthwash can be a solution because it has antibacterial properties and reaches interspaces on the teeth. Unfortunately, the active ingredient of mouthwash, chlorhexidine, can cause cancer-related mutations if used continuously. Therefore, it requires alternatives to natural ingredients, such as corn silk. The research aims to determine the corn silk phytochemical profile and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against Streptococcus mutans. The research started by macerating corn silk simplicia using 70% ethanol. Afterwards, thin layer chromatography (TLC) was conducted to determine its phytochemical profile. Disk-diffusion and broth microdilution methods were conducted using various concentrations of corn silk extract to determine its antibacterial activity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against Streptococcus mutans. Then, the MIC₅₀ was used as the minimum dose of corn silk extract concentration in mouthwash formulation which qualities controlled by pH and organoleptic tests. The yield of corn silk extracted was 16.17%w/w. The phytochemical profile from TLC showed that flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids were present. Corn silk extract has antibacterial activities against Streptococcus mutans with MIC₅₀ of 7.2%w/v. Corn silk extract, tween 80, sorbitol, sodium benzoate, sodium metabisulfite, oleum menthae piperitae, and distilled water were used in four mouthwash formulas (F1-F4). The pH of all formulas was 5 and the organoleptic test showed that from 30 panelists, the majority chose F2 as the best in terms of taste, color, and smell.

Identification, Antibiotic Profiling of Potential Pathogenic Bacteria from Fomites in Neonatal Intensive Care Units in a Tertiary Teaching Hospital of North Karnataka

This study was taken up to determine the prevalence of potential pathogens in most touched fomites in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) and to determine their antibiogram. Fifty swabs each were collected from fomites from In-born (for babies born in our center) and out-born (for babies born elsewhere, brought to our center) NICUs, before and after cleaning. Samples were processed using standard Microbiological techniques. Antibiogram was determined by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. From In-born NICU, before cleaning, 42 (84%) samples yielded growth with 48 bacterial isolates of which 31 (64.6%) were pathogens and after cleaning, 40 (80%) samples yielded growth with 41 bacterial isolates, of which 30 (73.1%) were pathogens. Most frequent isolates were non-fermenting gram-negative bacilli (NFGNB) and Klebsiella pneumoniae before and after cleaning, respectively. Prevalence of bacteria from In-born NICU before and after the cleaning was statistically significant (p = 0.025). From Out-born NICU, before cleaning, 42 (84%) samples yielded growth with 45 bacterial isolates, of which 25 (55.55%) were pathogens. Samples collected after cleaning; 42 (84%) samples yielded growth with 43 bacterial isolates of which 19 (44.18%) were pathogens. Most frequent isolates were NFGNB and Klebsiella pneumoniae from In-born NICU and K. pneumoniae and Escherichia coli from Out-born NICU before and after cleaning, respectively. Overall prevalence of pathogens was significant (p = 0.007). Staphylococcal isolates were resistant to Methicillin. NFGNB exhibited highest resistance (55.9%) towards Gentamicin. Significant decrease in the frequency of pathogens after cleaning indicates stringent practice of sterilization protocol would be essential in hospital environment.

Metabolic and Antioxidant Responses of Different Control Methods to the Interaction of Sorghum sudangrass hybrids-Colletotrichum boninense.

Colletotrichum boninense is the main pathogenic fungus causing leaf spot disease in Sorghum sudangrass hybrids, which seriously impairs its quality and yield. In order to find an efficient and green means of control, this study used the agar disk diffusion method to screen for a fungicide with the strongest inhibitory effect on C. boninense from among several bacteria, fungi, and chemicals. Then, the changes in the plant's antioxidant system and metabolic levels after treatment were used to compare the three means of control. The lowest inhibitory concentration of Zalfexam was 10 mg/mL, at which point C. boninense did not grow, and the inhibition rates of Bacillus velezensis (X7) and Trichoderma harzianum were 33.87-51.85% and 77.86-80.56%, respectively. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and chitinase were up-regulated 2.43 and 1.24 folds in the Trichoderma harzianum group (M group) and SOD activity was up-regulated 2.2 folds in the Bacillus velezensis group (X7 group) compared to the control group (CK group). SOD, peroxidase (POD), and chitinase activities were elevated in the Zalfexam group (HX group). The differential metabolites in different treatment groups were mainly enriched in amino acid metabolism and production, flavonoid production, and lipid metabolism pathways. Compared with the diseased plants (ZB group), the M, X7, HX, and CK groups were co-enriched in the tryptophan metabolic pathway and glutamate-arginine metabolic pathway, and only the CK group showed a down-regulation of the metabolites in the two common pathways, while the metabolites of the common pathways were up-regulated in the M, X7, and HX groups. In addition, the salicylic acid-jasmonic acid pathway and ascorbic acid-glutathione, which were unique to the M group, played an important role in helping Sorghum sudangrass hybrids to acquire systemic resistance against stress. This study fills the gap in the control of Colletotrichum boninene, which causes leaf spot disease in Sorghum sudangrass hybrids. This paper represents the first reported case of biological control for leaf spot disease in Sorghum sudangrass hybrids and provides a reference for the control of leaf spot disease in Sorghum sudangrass hybrids as well as other crops infected with Colletotrichum boninense.

Influence of surface texture: A comparative study on antibacterial activities of morphologically tailored zinc oxide

The morphology-dependent antibacterial activity of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles with three different morphologies, nanowall (NW), nanosphere (NS), and, nanorod (NR) was rigorously investigated to elucidate the influence of shape and size on their performance. Their morphological, surface, and structural characteristics were meticulously analyzed using SEM, BET, and XRD techniques. The antibacterial activity of synthesized ZnO samples was initially investigated and validated through in silico docking studies against nine bacterial strains, specifically targeting 1GCI, 2DCJ, 6KMM and 3T07, 6KVQ, 1MWT from gram-positive Bacillus sp. and Staphylococcus sp. respectively, 6N38, 6CRT, 6GRH from gram-negative E. coli. The docking simulations were performed using Autodock 4.2 software, yielding promising results characterized by negative binding energies, indicative of favorable interactions. The invitro studies were assessed against three same bacteria mentioned above using the disk diffusion method. The results demonstrated a pronounced dependency of antibacterial activity on the surface area, average crystallite size, and surface roughness of ZnO samples. ZnO (NW) exhibited markedly superior antibacterial properties. This enhanced efficacy is attributed to their higher surface area to volume ratio, smaller average crystallite size and increased surface roughness facilitating more efficient interactions with bacterial cell membranes. ZnO (NR) nanoparticles exhibited enhanced antibacterial activity despite minimal surface area.

Green biosynthesis of selenium and zinc oxide nanoparticles using whole plant extract of Rheum ribes: Characterization, anticancer, and antimicrobial activity

Scientists are becoming interested in nanomedicine as a potential new approach to cancer detection and therapy in the twenty-first century. This paper presents the first investigation of the anticancer and antibacterial properties of selenium (Se) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles obtained from Rheum ribes plant extract by a green synthesis method. Morphological and spectroscopic characterization of the synthesized nanoparticles was performed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis), which is a useful and straightforward technique for the preliminary characterisation of nanoparticles, dynamic light scattering (DLS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The size of the nanoparticles was determined to be 33 nm for Se-Nps and 32.8 nm for ZnO-Nps. The anticancer activity was assessed by the use of MTT, annexin V, caspase 3/7, and confocal microscopy imaging techniques. ZnO-Nps and Se-Nps were found to have significant antibacterial activity with MIC values for Escherichia coli (0.7 μg/mL, 0.63 μg/mL), and Staphylococcus aureus (1.56 μg/mL and 1.1 μg/mL). Furthermore, the antibacterial activity and the mechanism of action of the nanoparticles on E. coli and S. aureus bacteria were evaluated using microdilution and disc diffusion methods. In addition, the antiproliferative properties of ZnO-Np and Se-Np significantly suppressed the growth of A549 cells during a 24-hour incubation period (IC50 18.89 μg/mL ve 23.88 μg/mL). The results of the anti-cancer and anti-bacterial activity of the present study suggest that certain concentrations of Se-Np and ZnO-Np could be useful for pharmacological applications in cancer treatment and for coating surfaces for sterilization of medical equipment in healthcare settings, particularly in intensive care units.

First insight into the whole genome sequence variations in clarithromycin resistant Helicobacter pylori clinical isolates in Russia

Clarithromycin (CLR) is currently a key antibiotic for Helicobacter pylori infection treatment, however, the data on CLR resistance patterns in Russia are missing. Here, we applied WGS-based approach to H. pylori clinical isolates from Russia to comprehensively investigate sequence variation, identify putative markers of CLR resistance and correlate them with phenotypic susceptibility testing. The phenotypic susceptibility of 44 H. pylori isolates (2014–2022) to CLR was determined by disc diffusion method: 23 isolates were CLR-resistant and 21-CLR-susceptible. All isolates were subjected to WGS and submitted to GenBank. Based on complete sequence analysis, we showed that among all sequence variants, the combination of mutations A2146G/A2147G in the 23S rRNA gene is the most reliable for prediction of phenotypic susceptibility. For the first time, the average number of mutations in 106 virulence-associated genes between resistant and susceptible groups were compared. Moreover, this study presents the first WGS insight into genetic diversity of H. pylori in Russia with a particular focus on the molecular basis of drug resistance: the novel mutations were described as potential markers for the resistance development. Of these, the most prominent was a frameshift deletion (252:CGGGT) in HP0820 coding region, which is a good candidate for further investigation.