Higher Colonization Rates Research Articles

Bacterial Resistance in Nephrology

Bacterial resistance to antibiotics (ABR) is a major threat to public health, particularly in nephrology, with far-reaching consequences, including longer hospital stays, higher healthcare costs and increased mortality. Indeed, patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are a population at risk of developing infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARBs), given their overexposure to healthcare facilities and the quality of their gut microbiota already damaged by CKD. It is a population with very high rates of colonization and ARB infection worldwide. The mechanisms deployed by these AROs to counteract the effect of antibiotics are multiple. This may include the production of antibiotic-inhibiting enzyme (ATB), waterproofing of the bacterial membrane, or modification of the antibiotic target. They include methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) species, and several multidrug-resistant Gram-negative organisms. The emergence and global spread of these ARBs is facilitated by ATB selection pressure, inter-agency transmission of resistance determinants, suboptimal infection control practices, and frequency of international travel, among other factors. The spread of this veritable pandemic highlights the urgent need for new treatment options, the implementation of awareness campaigns to properly prescribe antibiotics and improve infection prevention practices, particularly at hemodialysis centers.

Gut colonization and subsequent infection of neonates caused by extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae.

The gut microbiota harbors diverse bacteria considered reservoirs for antimicrobial resistance genes. The global emergence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-PE) significantly contributes to healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). We investigated the presence of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli (ESBL-PEco) and ESBL-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (ESBL-PKpn) in neonatal patients' guts. Furthermore, we identified the factors contributing to the transition towards ESBL-PEco and ESBL-PKpn-associated healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). The study was conducted from August 2019 to February 2020, in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez. Rectal samples were obtained upon admission, on a weekly basis for a month, and then biweekly until discharge from the neonatology ward. Clinical data, culture results, and infection information were gathered. We conducted antimicrobial tests, multiplex PCR assay, and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) to determine the antimicrobial resistance profile and genetic relationships. A comparison between the group's controls and cases was performed using the Wilcoxon and Student t-tests. Of the 61 patients enrolled, 47 were included, and 203 rectal samples were collected, identifying 242 isolates. In 41/47 (87%) patients, colonization was due to ESBL-PEco or ESBL-PKpn. And nine of them developed HAIs (22%, 9/41). ESBL-PEco resistance to cephalosporins ranged from 25.4% to 100%, while ESBL-PKpn resistance varied from 3% to 99%, and both bacteria were susceptible to carbapenems, tigecillin, and colistin. The prevalent bla CTX-M-group-1 gene accounted for 77.2% in ESBL-PEco and 82.2% in ESBL-PKpn, followed by bla TEM 50% and bla OXA-1 43.8% in ESBL-PEco and bla TEM 80.2% and bla SHV 76.2% in ESBL-PKpn. Analysis of clonality revealed identical colonizing and infection isolates in only seven patients. Significant risk factors included hospital stay duration, duration of antibiotic treatment, and invasive device usage. Our findings suggest high ESBL-PEco and ESBL-PKpn rates of colonization often lead to infection in neonates. Attention should be paid to patients with ESBL-PE.

Central Venous Catheters versus Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters: A Comparison of Indwelling Time Resulting in Colonization by Multidrug-Resistant Pathogens.

The use of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) as an alternative to central venous catheters (CVCs) has steadily risen over the last two decades. However, there is an ongoing debate regarding research evidence that supports any clear advantages or disadvantages of them compared to traditional central venous lines. The present study was conducted to compare the indwelling time of CVC and PICC placements leading to microbial colonization by multidrug-resistant microorganisms (MDROs) in critically ill patients. A single-center retrospective descriptive study was performed that reviewed the medical records of critically ill patients with colonized CVCs and PICCs who were hospitalized during a 24-month period (May 2019-May 2021). To evaluate the association between indwelling time of catheter placement and colonization rates, events were categorized into three groups, each representing a one-week time interval of catheter indwelling time: group 1: ≤7 days, group 2: 8-14 days, and group 3: >14 days. A total of 207 hospitalized patients with colonized PICCs or CVCs were included in the study. Of these, 144 (69.5%) had a CVC placement and 63 (30.5%) had a PICC placement. The overall colonization rate (per 1.000 catheter/days) was 14.73 in the CVC and 5.67 in the PICC cohort (p = 0.003). In the group of PICCs, 12/63 (19%) of the pathogens were MDROs and 51/63 (81%) were non-MDROs, while in the group of CVCs, 86/144 (59.7%) were MDROs and 58/144 (40.3%) were non-MDROs (p < 0.001). The colonization rate in the CVC cohort, was 6.98 for group 1, 21.57 for group 2, and 21.6 for group 3 (p = 0.019). The colonization rate of MDROs was 3.27 for group 1, 14.47 for group 2, and 12.96 for group 3 (p = 0.025). Regarding the PICC cohort, the colonization rate was 1.49 for group 1, 3.19 for group 2, and 8.99 for group 3 (p = 0.047). No significant difference existed between the three groups in terms of MDRO pathogens, with the colonization rate being 0 for group 1, 0.8 for group 2, and 1.69 for group 3 (p = 0.78). Within the CVC cohort, the most common isolated microorganism was MDR Acinetobacter baumannii (n = 44; 30.6%), followed by MDR Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 27; 18.7%). In the PICC cohort, the predominant isolated microorganism was Candida non-albicans (n = 15; 23.8%), followed by Candida albicans, coagulase-negative staphylococci, and MDR Klebsiella pneumoniae in equal numbers (n = 6; 9.5%). Our findings show that while the indwelling time of PICC placement was longer compared to CVCs, its colonization rate was considerably lower. Furthermore, high colonization rates by microorganisms, especially MDROs, arose later during catheterization in PICCs compared to CVCs, suggesting that in terms of vascular infections, PICCs may be a safer alternative to conventional CVCs for long-term intravenous access.

High Gastrointestinal Colonization Rate of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci among Hospitalized Patients: Potential Source for Resistant Gene.

Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE) is a global health problem and responsible for healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in patients with prolonged hospital stay, severe underlying disease, and previous broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy. These bacteria can cross-resist and transfer drug-resistant genes to other potentially pathogenic bacteria. Therefore; this study was aimed to determine the gastrointestinal colonization rate of VRE, its antimicrobial susceptibility profile, and associated factors among hospitalized patients. Prospective cross-sectional study was conducted using stool samples from 223 patients admitted to different wards at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, from April 1 to June 30, 2021. Patients admitted to the hospital for more than 48 hours for various medical conditions were included. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were collected using a structured questionnaire. Fecal specimens were cultured on Enterococci selective media. Enterococcus species were identified using their growth and mannitol fermentation properties. Vancomycin resistance was screened using both the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method and a vancomycin E-test strip. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive and logistic regressions were used to determine the frequency and association of factors with the VRE colonization rate. A p value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. A total of 223 fecal specimens were collected and processed, and 141 (63.2%) them were positive for Enterococci. The predominant species was E. faecalis 65 (46.1%) followed by E. faecium 76 (53.9%). In this study, the gastrointestinal colonization rate of VRE was 15 (6.7%) and all the species belong to E. faecium. Study participants who had no formal education (AOR = 4.26, 95% CI: 1.01, 18.06), hospitalized patients for >2 weeks (AOR = 4.10, 95% CI: 1.08, 15.57), and those who had a history of treatment with vancomycin (AOR = 4.77, 95% CI: 1.26, 18.09) were more likely to be colonized with vancomycin-resistant Enterococci. More than 95% of Enterococci isolates were susceptible to linezolid, whereas 70.2%, 63.1%, 56.7%, and 53.9% were resistant to tetracycline, erythromycin, penicillin, and ampicillin, respectively. Among the total Enterococci isolated, 141 (54.6%) were multidrug resistant. In our study, high proportion of vancomycin-resistant Enterococci was found. Previous exposure to antibiotics and hospital stay were significant factors for VRE gut colonization. The isolated Enterococci showed variable degrees of resistance to commonly prescribed antibiotics which leads to a worldwide problem multidrug resistance. Therefore, periodic surveillance on antimicrobial resistance pattern, adhering to rational use of antibiotics, and implementing infection prevention protocols may reduce colonization by VRE.

First record of Aspergillus nomiae as a broad-spectrum entomopathogenic fungus that provides resistance against phytopathogens and insect pests by colonization of plants.

Aspergillus nomiae is known as a pathogenic fungus that infects humans and plants but has never been reported as an entomophagous fungus (EPF) that can provide other functions as an endotype. A strain of EPF was isolated and identified from diseased larvae of Spodoptera litura in a soybean field and designated AnS1Gzl-1. Pathogenicity of the strain toward various insect pests was evaluated, especially the ability to colonize plants and induce resistance against phytopathogens and insect pests. The isolated EPF strain AnS1Gzl-1 was identified as A. nomiae; it showed strong pathogenicity toward five insect pests belonging to Lepidoptera and Hemiptera. Furthermore, the strain inhibited the growth of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in vitro, a causal agent of soil-borne plant disease. It colonized plants as an endophyte via root irrigation with a high colonization rate of 90%, thereby inducing plant resistance against phytopathogen infection, and disrupting the feeding selectivity of S. litura larvae. This is the first record of a natural infection of A. nomiae on insects. A. nomiae has the potential to be used as a dual biocontrol EPF because of its ability to not only kill a broad spectrum of insect pests directly but also induce resistance against phytopathogens via plant colonization.

Group B Streptococcus and Perinatality in the South of Tunisia: Epidemiology, Serotype Distribution, and Antibiotic Susceptibility

IntroductionIn the lack of updated Tunisian epidemiological data, we sought to describe the epidemiology of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) in pregnant women and newborns.Materials and methodsA retrospective analysis of GBS neonatal invasive infections and a cross-sectional study evaluating the prevalence of maternal GBS colonization were conducted. GBS isolates were tested for antimicrobial susceptibility, serotyped, and assessed for the appurtenance to the hypervirulent ST17 clone.ResultsOf 98 neonates with GBS, early-onset GBS disease (EOD) comprised 83.7 and 16.3% were late-onset GBS disease (LOD). The prevalence of maternal GBS colonization was 27%. All GBS isolates were susceptible to penicillin. Serotype III predominated (42.6%) for neonatal invasive infections. GBS isolates belonging to the ST17 sequence type were found only as serotype III.ConclusionThis study documents the frequency of GBS EOD, the high rate of maternal GBS colonization, and the predominance of the hypervirulent clone type III/ST17 in infants.

Effect the accumulation of bioactive constituents of a medicinal plant (Salvia Miltiorrhiza Bge.) by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi community

BackgroundArbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) form symbiotic relationships with various terrestrial plants and have attracted considerable interest as biofertilizers for improving the quality and yield of medicinal plants. Despite the widespread distribution of AMFs in Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge's roots, research on the impact of multiple AMFs on biomass and active ingredient accumulations has not been conducted. In this study, the effects of five native AMFs (Glomus formosanum, Septoglomus constrictum, Rhizophagus manihotis, Acaulospora laevis, and Ambispora gerdemannii) and twenty-six communities on the root biomass and active ingredient concentrations of S. miltiorrhiza were assessed using the total factor design method.ResultsThirty-one treatment groups formed symbiotic relationships with S. miltiorrhiza based on the pot culture results, and the colonization rate ranged from 54.83% to 89.97%. AMF communities had higher colonization rates and total phenolic acid concentration than single AMF, and communities also appeared to have higher root fresh weight, dry weight, and total phenolic acid concentration than single inoculations. As AMF richness increased, there was a rising trend in root biomass and total tanshinone accumulations (ATTS), while total phenolic acid accumulations (ATP) showed a decreasing trend. This suggests that plant productivity was influenced by the AMF richness, with higher inoculation benefits observed when the communities contained three or four AMFs. Additionally, the affinities of AMF members were also connected to plant productivity. The inoculation effect of closely related AMFs within the same family, such as G. formosanum, S. constrictum, and R. manihotis, consistently yielded lower than that of mono-inoculation when any combinations were applied. The co-inoculation of S. miltiorrhiza with nearby or distant AMFs from two families, such as G. formosanum, R. manihotis, and Ac. laevis or Am. gerdemannii resulted in an increase of ATP and ATTS by more than 50%. AMF communities appear to be more beneficial to the yield of bioactive constituents than the single AMF, but overall community inoculation effects are related to the composition of AMFs and the relationship between members.ConclusionThis study reveals that the AMF community has great potential to improve the productivity and the accumulation of bioactive constituents in S. miltiorrhiza, indicating that it is an effective way to achieve sustainable agricultural development through using the AMF community.

Bacterial and Candida Colonization of Neonates in a Regional Hospital in South Africa.

Neonatal colonization with multidrug-resistant (MDR) Enterobacter spp., Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterococcus faecium (ESKAPE) and Candida spp. often precedes invasive hospital-acquired infections. We investigated the prevalence and dynamics of neonatal ESKAPE and Candida spp. colonization from hospital admission until discharge (or death) and followed up for invasive disease. Prospective longitudinal surveillance for neonatal ESKAPE and Candida spp. colonization was conducted over 6 months at a South African regional hospital. Neonates enrolled at birth had swabs (nasal, 2× skin and rectal) collected within 24 hours and every 48-96 hours thereafter, until discharge or death. ESKAPE and Candida spp. were cultured for and antimicrobial susceptibility was performed on bacterial isolates. Whole-genome sequencing was undertaken on paired samples with the same bacterial species from colonizing and invasive disease episodes in the same child. Of 102 enrolled neonates, 79% (n = 81) were colonized by ≥1 ESKAPE organism by time of discharge or death. Forty-four percent (36/81) were colonized within 24 hours of birth. Common colonizers were K. pneumoniae (70%; n = 57) and Enterobacter spp. (43%; n = 35). Almost all MDR organisms (93%) were Gram-negative. Forty-two (45%, 42/93) newborns acquired Candida spp. (skin only) colonization, commonly Candida parapsilosis (69%; n = 29). For 2 children with K. pneumoniae colonization and sepsis, the bloodstream and colonizing isolates were genetically different, whereas the single A. baumannii colonizing and blood isolate pair were genetically identical. We report a high prevalence of MDR ESKAPE and Candida spp. colonization in a regional neonatal unit. Interventions to reduce the high incidence of hospital-acquired neonatal infections should include reducing high colonization rates.

Phage Therapy in Lung Transplantation: Current Status and Future Possibilities.

Patients with chronic lung disease and lung transplantation have high rates of colonization and infection from multidrug-resistant (MDR) organisms. This article summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding phage therapy in the setting of lung transplantation. Phage therapy has been used in several lung transplant candidates and recipients on a compassionate use basis targeting mostly MDR gram-negative infections and atypical mycobacterial infections with demonstrated clinical safety. Phage biodistribution given intravenously or via nebulization has not been extensively studied, though preliminary data are presented. Phage interacts with both the innate and adaptive immune system; current literature demonstrates the development of serum neutralization in some cases of phage therapy, although the clinical impact seems variable. A summary of current clinical trials involving patients with chronic lung disease is presented, though none are specifically targeting lung transplant candidates or recipients. In addition to treatment of active infections, a variety of clinical scenarios may benefit from phage therapy, and well-designed clinical trials involving this vulnerable patient population are needed: pre- or peritransplantation use of phage in the setting of MDR organism colonization may lead to waitlisting of candidates currently declined by many centers, along with potential reduction of waitlist mortality rates and posttransplant infections; phage may be used for biofilm-related bronchial stent infections; and, finally, there is a possibility that phage use can affect allograft function and chronic rejection.

Improving Pediatric Clostridioides difficile Testing Practices: Implementation of a 2-Tier Diagnostic Pathway

Introduction: Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) is a significant concern for children, especially for those who are hospitalized or who have underlying medical conditions. Diagnosis of C. difficile infection (CDI) in these patients can be challenging due to asymptomatic colonization. Inappropriate testing and non-adherence to laboratory testing guidelines can result in increased false-positive rates precipitating unnecessary isolation precautions and antibiotic treatment for these patients. &#x0D; &#x0D; Methods: This retrospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a new diagnostic pathway for C. difficile testing that was implemented in two pediatric hospitals. The study design collected data for two years, one year before and one year after pathway implementation. The study highlighted the importance of appropriate testing and the need for interventions to improve testing practices in pediatric patients. A 2-tier testing algorithm was implemented, consisting of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the presence or absence of the toxin B gene and an enzyme immunoassay for toxin A/B production. The best practice advisory was used to determine when C. difficile testing should not be performed. The chi-square test and Fisher's Exact Test analyzed the data using SPSS version 29.&#x0D; &#x0D; Results: The study found a significant association between the implementation of the C. difficile testing pathway and the test positivity rates for both inpatient and emergency department (ED) patients at both hospitals. Out of 159,434 Hospital A inpatients, 71 had positive C. difficile test results, and out of 11,109 Hospital B inpatients, nine had positive test results. Similarly, out of 121,951 Hospital A ED patients, eight had positive test results, and out of 67,999 Hospital B ED patients, 16 had positive test results. The study found a statistically significant association between the pre and post pathway implementation years for both hospitals (p&lt;0.001 for Hospital B inpatient and ED, p=0.033 for Hospital A inpatient, and p=0.004 for Hospital A ED).&#x0D; &#x0D; Conclusion: Adherence to laboratory testing guidelines, appropriate testing based on factors such as the patient's age, underlying health conditions, recent antibiotic use, and the presence of other infections or illnesses can reduce unnecessary testing and false-positive rates. False-positive results can occur in pediatric patients due to the high rate of asymptomatic colonization, making it essential to use a combination of clinical symptoms, history, and appropriate diagnostic testing to minimize the risk of misdiagnosis.

Effectiveness of multiple culture of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) from the rhizosphere of cocoa on host plant Pueraria javanica

The utilization of single Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) is constrained by the propagation of the single spore and usually depends on the host plant. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of single culture propagation of several genera of AMF from the rhizosphere of cocoa and the concentration of NPK on the host Pueraria javanica. The study was designed with a completely randomized design with two factors. The first factor was the genus FMA which consisted of Acaulospora sp1 (M1), Acaulospora sp2 (M2), Glomus sp1 (M3), Glomus sp2 (M4), Glomus sp3 (M5). The second factor was that the concentration of liquid fertilizer was five levels: control (P0), 0.5g/l water (P1), 1.0g/l water (P2), 1.5g/l water (P3), 2.0g/l water (P4), and repeated four times. Parameters observed: root infection, spore number, main stem length, root length. The study showed that the highest number of spores resulted from the interaction of Acaulospora sp1 with 0.5g/l NPK. The most extended stem and root lengths were produced at 1.0g/l NPK with Acaulospora sp2, 27.40 cm, and 2.0 g NPK fertilizer with Acaulospora sp2, which had a root length of 8.8 cm. The highest colonization rate was found in plants not given NPK and infected with Glomus sp1. This study showed that the Pueraria Javanica plant is a suitable plant to be used as a host plant for the development of spore types Acaulospora and Glomous in single culture.

Near-term pregnant women in the Dominican Republic experience high rates of Group B Streptococcus rectovaginal colonization with virulent strains.

Maternal colonization with Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is an important cause of stillbirth, prematurity, and serious infection and death in infants worldwide. Resource constraints limit prevention strategies in many regions. Maternal GBS vaccines in development could be a more accessible prevention strategy, but data on geographic variations in GBS clones are needed to guide development of a broadly effective vaccine. In the Dominican Republic (DR), limited data suggest that pregnant women experience GBS colonization at rates among the highest globally. We aimed to determine the prevalence of maternal rectovaginal GBS colonization and describe clonal characteristics of colonizing strains in the DR. A cross-sectional study assessed rectovaginal GBS colonization in 350 near-term pregnant women presenting for routine prenatal care at an urban tertiary center in the DR. Rectovaginal samples were tested with chromogenic Strep B Carrot Broth and cultured for confirmatory whole-genome sequencing. In a secondary analysis, participants' demographics and histories were assessed for association with GBS colonization. Rectovaginal GBS colonization occurred in 26.6% of women. Serotypes Ia, Ib, II, III, IV, and V were detected, with no one serotype predominating; serotype III was identified most frequently (21.5%). Virulent and emerging strains were common, including CC17 (15.1%) and ST1010 (17.2%). In this first characterization of maternal GBS serotypes in the DR, we found high rates of rectovaginal colonization including with virulent and emerging GBS strains. The serotypes observed here are all targeted by candidate hexavalent GBS vaccines, suggesting effective protection in the DR.

THE EFFECT OF DENTAL IMPLANTS ON AEROBIC BACTERIA COLONIZATION IN THE ORAL CAVITY AND THE ANTIBIOTIC PROFILE OF COMMON ISOLATED AEROBIC BACTERIA

Background and aims: The mouth's microflora may alter as a result of dental implants. The purpose of this study was to examine the composition of aerobic bacteria in patients with dental implants and those who had natural teeth (without implants) as well as the response of those bacteria to antibiotic treatment. Methods: Bacteriological tests were performed on 72 patients (36 dental implants and 36 natural teeth) who visited dental clinics run by Sana'a University's Faculty of Dentistry and private dental clinics. Antibiotic susceptibility tests and culture trials were carried out at the National Center for Public Health Laboratories (NCPHL) in Sana'a, Yemen. Swabs were taken from the mucous membrane of the palate and the dorsum of the tongue from both groups, and cultured on selective and non-selective solid medium, in addition to culturing the swabs on medium enriched with 5% blood, then all cultured plates were incubated to microaerophilic conditions (5% CO2) and oxygenated in 37oC for 48 hours. Then bacterial growth was identified by standard methods. Results: In implant patients, the rate of bacterial isolates from the palate and tongue was slightly higher for potentially harmful bacteria such as E. coli (8.3% in tongue implant patients vs. 2.8% in non-implant patients) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (5.6% versus 0%). While in viridians Streptococcus including S. mutans, there was a higher colonization rate in implants patients (83.3% in the palate verses, 75% in the palate of individuals without implants). A low level of oxacillin resistance (5.1%) in S. mutans isolates but S. mutans had a substantial level of tetracycline resistance (55.93%), 11.9% for co-trimoxazole, 10.2% for erythromycin, and just 1.7% for clindamycin. Conclusion: The study found that pathogenic bacteria like E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were isolated from the palate and the back of the tongue swabs at a slightly elevated rate in implant patients; also colonization rates of Streptococcus viridians, including S. mutans, were higher in implant patients compared to those without implants. There was a significant levels of antibiotics resistance in S. aureus, CoNs and S. viridians oral isolates in both groups of tested individuals. Peer Review History: Received: 14 June 2023; Revised: 13 July; Accepted: 17 August, Available online: 15 September 2023 Academic Editor: Dr. A.A. Mgbahurike, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, amaka_mgbahurike@yahoo.com Received file: Reviewer's Comments: Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 8.0/10 Reviewers: Dr. Rola Jadallah, Arab American University, Palestine, rola@aauj.edu Dr. Bilge Ahsen KARA, Ankara Gazi Mustafa Kemal Hospital, Turkey, ahsndkyc@gmail.com

Quantitative Stool Culture of Candida in Autism Spectrum Disorder Patients

Abstract Background Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a category of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by social and communication impairment and restricted or repetitive behaviors. Aim of the Work to estimate the quantity of Candida in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) patients compared to normal children and to find the association between Candida colony count and severity of ASD. Patients and Methods The study was carried out on 40 children, diagnosed as autism and 40 normal children as control group recruited from Pediatrics and adolescent Psychiatric Clinic at Ain Shams University Pediatrics Hospitals and Main Microbiology lab in Clinical Pathology Department of Ain Shams University. The study was conducted on a wide age group ranging from 3 to 14 years, (mean age of 6.30±2.40 years), Stool sample was collected from each patient in a sterile container, cultured on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) and colony count was determined. Identification of isolated Candida species was done using chromogenic media. Results The study revealed statistically significant difference in Candida isolation rate among patient and control group with p-value (p = 0.006). Candida species were isolated from 23 patients (57.5%) and from 10 child in control group (25%), But detected that stool count was nonsignificant in severe autistic group compared to mild to moderate autistic group with p-value more than 0.05 NS. There were 14 patients (60.9%) with C. Albicans; 2 patients (8.7%) C. Glabrata; 6 patients (26.1%) C.Krusie and one patient (4.3%) C. Utilis, among candida species. Conclusion ASD is more common among male than female; ratio about 4:1. The high rate of intestinal colonization by Candida species in ASD children may represent a part of syndrome related to immune system disorders that may play a role in the pathogenesis of ASD. C. albicans was the predominant isolate than other non-Candida albicans species in ASD. The degree of candida colonization represented as quantitative colony count is not related to the severity of CARS among ASD patients.

Phytomanagement of Zn- and Cd-Contaminated Soil: Helianthus annuus Biomass Production and Metal Remediation Abilities with Plant-Growth-Promoting Microbiota Assistance

Mining and industrial activity are contributing to the increase in heavy metal (HM) pollution in soils. Phytoremediation coupled to selected rhizosphere microbiota is an environmentally friendly technology designed to promote HM bioremediation in soils. In this study, sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) was used together with Rhizophagus irregularis, an arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), and Cupriavidus sp. strain 1C2, a plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), as a phytoremediation strategy to remove Zn and Cd from an industrial soil (599 mg Zn kg−1 and 1.2 mg Cd kg−1). The work aimed to understand if it is possible to gradually remediate the tested soil while simultaneously obtaining significant yields of biomass with further energetic values by comparison to the conventional growth of the plant in agricultural (non-contaminated) soil. The H. annuus biomass harvested in the contaminated industrial soil was 17% lower than that grown in the agricultural soil—corresponding to yields of 19, 620, 199 and 52 g m−2 of roots, stems, flowers and seeds. It was possible to remove ca. 0.04 and 0.91% of the Zn and Cd of the industrial soil, respectively, via the HM accumulation on the biomass produced. The survival of applied microbiota was indicated by a high root colonization rate of AMF (about 50% more than in non-inoculated agricultural soil) and identification of strain 1C2 in the rhizosphere at the end of the phytoremediation assay. In this study, a phytoremediation strategy encompassing the application of an energetic crop inoculated with known beneficial microbiota applied to a real contaminated soil was successfully tested, with the production of plant biomass with the potential for upstream energetic valorisation purposes.

Association between genital mycoplasmas (Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma hominis) and HIV infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Several studies have reported the occurrence of genital mycoplasmas (Ureaplasma urealyticum, Mycoplasma hominis, Mycoplasma genitalium, and Mycoplasma fermentans) among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients, but findings are conflicting. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the association of U. urealyticum and M. hominis with HIV infection. We searched seven databases to retrieve articles reporting the prevalence of genital mycoplasmas among HIV-infected patients. Pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated and displayed by forest plots. Cochran Q and I2 statistics were applied to assess heterogeneity. In addition, a funnel plot with an Egger's test was performed to evaluate potential publication bias. Of the 1123 articles identified, 12 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this meta-analysis. Our results revealed that HIV-infected patients had higher colonization rates by U. urealyticum and M. hominis (single infection) than the control group (OR = 1.526; 95% CI: 1.202-1.937; p = 0.001 and OR = 2.610; 95% CI: 1.890-3.604; p = 0,000, respectively). However, coinfection seemed to be not associated with HIV infection (OR = 1.311; 95% CI: 0.744-2.311; p = 0.348). A subgroup analysis showed that study design and geographical origin were a source of heterogeneity in the studies that reported coinfection among HIV-infected patients. However, there was no statistical evidence of publication bias. Our study revealed that genital mycoplasmas were more frequent in HIV-infected patients than healthy individuals, resulting from a decline of natural immunity due to HIV. More effort should be dedicated to the screening, prevention, and treatment of genital mycoplasmas, to curb the spread of HIV.

The Epidemiology of Animal-Associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) remains an important etiological factor of human and animal infectious diseases, causing significant economic losses not only in human healthcare but also in the large-scale farming sector. The constantly changing epidemiology of MRSA observed globally affects animal welfare and raises concerns for public health. High MRSA colonization rates in livestock raise questions about the meaning of reservoirs and possible transmission pathways, while the prevalence of MRSA colonization and infection rates among companion animals vary and might affect human health in multiple ways. We present the main findings concerning the circulation of animal-associated MRSA (AA-MRSA) in the environment and factors influencing the direction, mechanisms, and routes of its transmission. Studies have shown it that S. aureus is a multi-host bacterial pathogen; however, its adaptation mechanisms enabling it to colonize and infect both animal and human hosts are still rarely discussed. Finally, we elaborate on the most successful strategies and programs applied limiting the circulation of AA-MRSA among animals and humans. Although MRSA strains colonizing animals rarely infect humans, they undergo host-adaptive evolution enabling them to spread and persist in human populations.

Detection and Quantification of Klebsiella pneumoniae in Fecal Samples Using Digital Droplet PCR in Comparison with Real-Time PCR.

This study aimed to develop a rapid and sensitive droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) assay for the specific detection of Klebsiella pneumoniae in fecal samples, and to evaluate its application in the clinic by comparison with real-time PCR assay and conventional microbial culture. Specific primers and a probe targeting the K. pneumoniae hemolysin (khe) gene were designed. Thirteen other pathogens were used to evaluate the specificity of the primers and probe. A recombinant plasmid containing the khe gene was constructed and used to assess the sensitivity, repeatability, and reproducibility of the ddPCR. Clinical fecal samples (n = 103) were collected and tested by the ddPCR, real-time PCR, and conventional microbial culture methods. The detection limit of ddPCR for K. pneumoniae was 1.1 copies/μL, about a 10-fold increase in sensitivity compared with real-time PCR. The ddPCR was negative for the 13 pathogens other than K. pneumoniae, confirming its high specificity. Clinical fecal samples gave a higher rate of positivity in the K. pneumoniae ddPCR assay than in analysis by real-time PCR or conventional culture. ddPCR also showed less inhibition by the inhibitor in fecal sample than real-time PCR. Thus, we established a sensitive and effective ddPCR-based assay method for K. pneumoniae. It could be a useful tool for K. pneumoniae detection in feces and may serve as a reliable method to identify causal pathogens and help guide treatment decisions. IMPORTANCE Klebsiella pneumoniae can cause a range of illnesses and has a high colonization rate in the human gut, making it crucial to develop an efficient method for detecting K. pneumoniae in fecal samples.

Veliger density and environmental conditions control quagga mussel colonization rates in two perialpine lakes

Quagga and zebra mussels (Dreissena bugensis and D. polymorpha) are spreading across lakes in Europe and North America. In particular, quagga mussels colonize lakes to great depths (>200 m). To better understand the colonization pattern of quagga mussels in deep lakes, we studied the settlement of quagga mussels along a depth gradient on colonization plates at multiple depths (1–140 m) in the pelagic zone of two recently invaded perialpine lakes, Lake Constance and Lake Geneva. We measured colonization rates every three months over one year on colonization plates deployed in both lakes at defined depths. We also assessed long-term population dynamics from abundance and size distribution using repeated photogrammetry of colonization plates. Highest colonization rates and largest mussel sizes occurred above 8 m depth, and almost no zebra mussels were found. Colonization rates decreased to almost zero below 30 m. Colonization rates on plates were associated with variation in environmental conditions as well as veliger densities in the plankton across season and depth. Temperature was the most important environmental parameter that influenced colonization. Our results will help to better understand the seasonal colonization patterns of invasive quagga mussels in deep lakes.

Characterizing the Response of Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici to Periods of Heat Stress that Are Common in Kansas and the Great Plains Region of North America.

Stripe rust of wheat, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici, is considered a disease of cool environments, and it has been observed that high temperatures can suppress disease development. However, recent field observations in Kansas suggest that the pathogen may be recovering from heat stress more quickly than expected. Previous research indicates that some strains of this pathogen were adapted to warm temperature regimes but did not consider how the pathogen responds to periods of heat stress that are common in the Great Plains region of North America. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to characterize the response of contemporary isolates of P. striiformis f. sp. tritici to periods of heat stress and to look for evidence of temperature adaptations within the pathogen population. These experiments evaluated nine isolates of the pathogen: eight isolates collected in Kansas between 2010 and 2021 and a historical reference isolate. Treatments compared the latent period and colonization rate of isolates given a cool temperature regime (12 to 20°C) and as they recovered from 7 days of heat stress (22 to 35°C). Results documented that contemporary isolates of the pathogen had similar latent periods and colonization rates as the historical reference under the cool temperature regime. Following exposure to 7 days of heat stress, the contemporary isolates had shorter latent periods and higher colonization rates than the historical isolate. There was also variability in how the contemporary isolates recovered from heat stress, with some isolates collected during 2019 to 2021 recovering sooner than those collected just 5 to 10 years ago.