Microbial Sensitivity Research Articles

Naphthalene concentration dynamics in an aqueous medium in the presence of Bacillus megaterium

The study examined the concentration dynamics of naphthalene, with its initial concentrations of 1, 2, and 3 g/L in synthetic wastewater. The initial number of Bacillus megaterium MK64-1 cells in the medium amounted to 1.7×107 CFU/mL. On day 14 of the experiment, the concentration of naphthalene decreased to hundredths of a gram, while the microbial count increased to 109 CFU/mL (at the initial naphthalene concentrations of 1 and 2 g/L) and 1011 CFU/mL (at the initial naphthalene concentration of 3 g/L). After 14 days, the medium pH decreased by an average of 0.7 units (from 8.56 to 7.86) in both test and control media, with the addition of a microbial suspension. During this time, the redox potential of the medium increased by an average of 70 mV in the test media. Quite a strong direct correlation (p < 0.05) was found between the initial concentration and the amount of pollutant degraded by bacteria. The determination of dehydrogenase activity in Bacillus megaterium by means of two methods (with 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride and methylene blue), as well as microbial sensitivity to hydrocarbon concentrations of 1, 2, and 3 g/L via the disk-diffusion method, showed no toxic effect of the analyzed pollutant concentrations on bacteria under the experimental conditions. The obtained results indicate the ability of Bacillus megaterium strain MK64-1 to biodegrade naphthalene.

MICROBIAL PATTERNS AND DRUG SENSITIVITY TEST OF BACTERIAL AND FUNGAL INFECTION IN COVID-19 PATIENTS AT THE NATIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL IN NORTH SUMATRA, INDONESIA.

Bacteria or fungi in COVID-19 involves several mechanisms that can affect immune system and also can increase severity of symptoms. The incidence of bacterial or fungal infections is common in patients with viral respiratory tract infections. The aim of this study was to determine the microbial patterns and sensitivity tests of bacterial and fungal infection in COVID-19 patients at National Referral Hospital in North Sumatra, Indonesia. A cross-sectional design, where data was obtained from a 100 COVID-19 patients medical records, from December 2020 to April 2021. This study employed total sampling, those that fit the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total population of 100 COVID-19 patients were included, with bacterial infections in 26 patients (26%), fungi in 5 patients (5%), bacteria and fungi in 5 patients (5%). The most common bacterial pathogen was Acinetobacter baumannii in 14 patients (45.1%), followed with Klebsiella pneumonia in 5 patients (16.1%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa in 5 patients (16.1%) and Escherichia coli in 3 patients (9.6%). The most sensitive antibiotic in Acinetobacter baumannii was Amikacin (57.14%). The most common fungal infection was Candida albicans in 5 patients (50.0%) and mostly sensitive to Fluconazole, Voriconazole, Caspofungin, Amphotericin B, Micafungin and Flucytosine (60.0%). Bacterial and fungal infections can occur in COVID-19 patients, bacterial infection most commonly found in this study. The most sensitive antibiotic or anti-fungal is different for each bacterial or fungal found, and can be used as a basis for antibiotic selection for COVID-19 patients.

Microbial Diversity Losses Constrain the Capacity of Soils to Mitigate Climate Change.

Soil microbes may adapt to climate warming, potentially reducing the warming-induced increase in microbial carbon emissions such as carbon dioxide, and thereby helping to mitigate climate change. Yet, soil microbes are subjected to various global change stresses (e.g., warming, drought, flooding, and land-use changes), altering their biodiversity, which challenges microbial adaptation to climate change. Here, we created microbial diversity gradients in microcosms at two different temperatures using soils from a 2000-km field survey. We found that reduced microbial diversity weakens the thermal adaptation of soil microbial respiration and can further enhance the microbial respiratory temperature sensitivity over time. Our analyses further revealed that the negative impact of microbial diversity losses is linked to the decline of keystone microbial taxa, which can adapt to temperature changes and are crucial for the community's ability to compensate for the temperature-driven effects on soil respiration in the long term. Taken together, our study provides new insights into the key role of microbial diversity in driving the thermal response of soil heterotrophic respiration, suggesting that any global change-driven shifts in microbial diversity can have critical consequences for the future of carbon stocks.

Effect of texturization on microbial inactivation in UV-C treated orange juice: Predictive modeling and analysis of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris physiological and morphological changes

UV-C light is an alternative for preserving clear fruit-based drinks, replacing existing thermal treatments that degrade product quality and are ineffective against some microorganisms, including Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris, a spoiling agent of concern in the juice sector. Texturizing agents are essential since consumers' preferences for these products strongly depend on the mouthfeel. However, the complexity of the treated texturized system may have an essential influence on UV-C effectiveness. The main goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of texturization on the UV-C inactivation of A. acidoterrestris spores (AA) and separate cocktails of Escherichia coli (ECC), yeast (YC), and Salmonella (SC) in orange juice. Binary combinations (0.0 to 0.3 % w/v) of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and guar gum (GG) were added to orange juice (OJ). A multiple regression analysis identified suitable CMC and GG combinations with optimal viscosity (~ 20 mPa.s) and maximum suspended particles (%S), leading to two formulations: TOJ1 (0.075 % w/v CMC + 0.15 % w/v GG at five °C) and TOJ2 (0.045 % w/v CMC + 0.165 % w/v GG). A consumer field test confirmed the advantages of sweetness, bitterness, flavor, color, and body/viscosity, establishing it as the best formulation. UV-C assisted by mild heat (UV-C/H) inactivation in OJ and TOJ1 was determined (1651 mJ/cm2, 50 °C, 1.8 L/min). Single treatments (UV-C and H) were also performed to evaluate synergy. The UV-C/H induced damage on AA spores was measured by flow cytometry (FC) labeling with fluorescein diacetate (FDA) and propidium iodide (PI) for monitoring membrane integrity. The bacterial cocktails were the most sensitive to the UV-C treatments, followed by YC and AA. UV-C achieved moderate inactivation (1.6–4.6 log reductions) in non-texturized OJ, while UV-C/H significantly enhanced microbial sensitivity (3.4–7.5 log reductions). Texturization slightly reduced UV-C effectiveness, achieving 2.9–5.2 log reductions in TOJ1. The Weibull model provided the best fit characterizing UV-C inactivation with evidence of subpopulations of different resistances. In TOJ1 treated by UV-C/H, the flow cytometry study revealed membrane-compromised AA spores with a gradual increase of PI+ cells with treatment time. The scanning electron micrographs showed structural damage, less evident in the texturized system. The results suggest that UV-C can be used to process texturized orange juice and could be a promising alternative for controlling Alicyclobacillus spp. spores and other microbial strains in industrialized orange juice.

Microbial specturm and antibiotic sensitivity of pocket swabs in ICD patients undergoing device replacement or lead revision surgery- findings from a ICD registry observational study

Abstract Introduction Infection is a serious complication of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) therapy, necessitating effective preventive measures during implantation or revision surgery. The intraoperative use of antibacterial envelopes containing rifampicin and minocycline has shown promising results in reducing infection, yet, it is expensive and not cost-effective. Gentamicin sponges might be an alternative to the antibacterial envelope, however its efficacy on targeting the specific microbial spectrum found in device infection must be further investigated. Aim of the study was to identify the bacterial species obtained from pocket swabs of ICD patients undergoing revision surgery, and assess their sensitivity to gentamicin, rifampicin and minocycline. Methods A total of 459 intraoperative pocket swabs were collected from consecutive ICD patients who underwent elective device replacement, system upgrade or lead revision between 2017 and 6/2023. The baseline characteristics were similar in both groups (Table 1). Results Out of the 459 swabs analysed: 416 (90.6%) were negative for microbial growth. The remaining 43 swabs (9.4%) were tested positive for microbial growth (Table 2). Coagulase-negative- staphylococci (CoNS) were the most commonly isolated bacteria, accounting for 56% of cases. Bacteria with available antibiograms exhibited a sensitivity of 92% to gentamicin, 96% to rifampicin and 96% to Minocycline (Table 2). Conclusion The antibiotic sensitivity of the bacteria obtained from the pocket swabs to gentamycin, rifampicin and minocycline was similar. Thus, gentamicin sponges might be an alternative to the antibacterial envelope in patients with ICD undergoing generator replacement or revision surgery.

The Description of Microbial Pattern and Antibiotic Sensitivity Among Pediatric Patients at RSUP M Djamil Padang

Background Infection alludes to the invasion and multiplication of either microorganisms or parasites inside bodily tissues. The management of such infections is closely interrelated to the use of antibiotics. Ineffective use of antibiotics is contributed to the antibiotic resistance. Severe disease complications and lengthy hospital stays are among essential reasons why physicians may prescribe myriad types of antibiotics for longer durations. In effort to diminish resistance, the selection of antibiotics ought to be based on information about the bacterial spectrum causing the infection and the patterns of sensitivity to antibiotics. Annual reporting of microbial patterns and sensitivity testing is essential, particularly for pediatric ward patients, as it provides a guide for administering relevant antibiotics and preventing further spread of infections. Objectives This study evaluated microbial patterns, sensitivity test results, and antibiotic resistance among patients in the pediatric ward of RSUP M Djamil Padang from January-December 2020, with a total of 138 samples. Results The proportion of gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria are 83.3% and 16.7%, respectively. The most prevalent gram-negative bacteria are Klebsiella pneumoniae (28.9%), Escherichia coli (26.1%). Pseudomonas aeruginosa (7.9%), Staphylococcus epidermidis (7.2%) and Acinetobacter baumannii (3.7%) also present. These bacteria are predominantly found in samples of feces, urine, and blood. Gram-positive bacteria show notable resistance to the antibiotics such as erythromycin (22.2%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (19%), and ciprofloxacin (15.8%), while being sensitive to chloramphenicol (17.4%), vancomycin (15.1%), and tetracycline (12%). In contrast, gram-negative bacteria exhibit resistance to ampicillin (16.5%), ceftriaxone (12.1%), and ceftazidime (11.3%), but are sensitive to amikacin (19.8%), meropenem (19.4%), and gentamicin (10.9%). Keywords: microbial patterns, antibiotic sensitivity, pediatric ward

Exploring Drug Resistance: Microbial Profiles, Antibiotic Sensitivity, and Biofilm Development in Orthopedic Implant Infections.

Background With the advent of and rise in antibiotic resistance globally, especially in postoperative patients, studying the antibiogram and associated factors is the need of the hour. The present study was undertaken to document the microbiological profile in postoperative orthopedic patients with the infected implant in situ and to observe the antibiotic susceptibility patterns of isolated organisms in such infections. Methods This study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology of a tertiary care hospital for six months after obtaining institutional ethical approval. A total of 236 samples from patients with orthopedic implant infections were received during the study period, out of which 53 samples with positive culture isolate were further analyzed for microbiological profile including biofilm production. All observations and demographics were recorded and analyzed using SPSS software version 21.0(IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA) and represented in the form of graphs, data, and tables. Results and conclusion The study showed a culture positivity rate of 53 (23%) out of 236 samples, in which gram-negative isolates 36 (68%)were more than gram-positive isolates 17 (32%). The most common isolate was staphylococcus aureus 17 (32%) of which the majority were MRSA 13 (76%), followed by Escherichia coli 9 (17%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae 9 (17%). Out of the 53 isolates, 20 were biofilm producers. Biofilm-producing isolates were more resistant to tested routine antibiotics compared to non-biofilm. This study could represent the initial interdisciplinary effort in an ongoing process to better understand and manage orthopedic implant infections at the hospital, specifically focusing on infections related to orthopedic devices.

Effect of Different Vascular Accesses on Inflammatory Markers and Outcome in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract Background Haemodialysis is a vital treatment for all uremic patients to survive. For those who need dialysis for a long time, establishing and maintaining permanent vascular accesses with good function is a crucial condition for prolonging their survival. Aim of the Work To study the effect of different types of vascular access on infection risk (apparent, hidden infection, patterns of microbial infection, antibiotic sensitivity, and outcome among maintenance hemodialysis patients). Patients and Methods This study is a prospective cohort study. This study conducted in Ain Shams University Hospitals, Nephrology Department Hemodialysis units. In 6 months. Results In the current study we found that Mean ± SD of Age (years) 49.5±8.4 and Duration of HD (years) was 3.2±1.9. Males and females were almost equal (46.0 % and 54.0% respectively). Cases from El-Demerdash and ASHUSH were 60.3% and 39.7% respectively. Catheters were temporary catheter, AVF and AVG; 49.2%, 31.7% and 19.0% respectively. In the current study we found that less than fifth of cases had Leucocytosis and Elevated procalcitonin in months 2 and 3. No significant statistical differences according to catheter type regarding demographic characteristics. Leucocytosis and Elevated procalcitonin in months 2 and 3 were most frequent in temporary catheter, followed by AVG and least frequent in AVF, the differences were significant only in leucocytosis. In the current study we found that Mean ± SD of temporary catheter duration (weeks) was 3.4±1. The access sites were Right jugular, right subclavian, left jugular and left subclavian; 41.9%, 25.8%, 22.6% and 9.7% respectively. Duration of temporary catheter was significantly higher in cases with peripheral positive culture. No statistically significant difference according to peripheral culture findings regarding temporary catheter access site. Duration of temporary catheter was significantly higher in cases with central positive culture. No significant statistical difference according to peripheral culture findings regarding temporary catheter access site. Conclusion the growing body of knowledge in nephrology and infectious disease management, offering insights that can inform clinical practice and improve patient outcomes in the haemodialysis setting.

Bacteriological profile and antimicrobial sensitivity pattern of wound infections in burns ward of a tertiary care hospital: a retro-prospective study

Abstract Background: Nosocomial infections pose a significant risk to burn patients, contributing to high rates of morbidity and mortality. Burn injuries, particularly in developing countries, present a major public health concern. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the microorganisms present in burn wounds to guide effective treatment strategies. This study aims to determine the prevalence of bacteria isolated from burn wounds and to evaluate their antimicrobial sensitivity profiles. Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study collected data from January to July 2022 and from January to July 2023. Lab reports of all swabs collected from burn wounds for microbial identification and antibiotic sensitivity profile were noted down. The data were analyzed manually using MS Excel and presented as frequencies and graphs. Results: Of the 152 wound samples, 82% showed bacterial growth, whereas 18% showed no growth. The most frequently isolated organism was Pseudomonas (40%), followed by Staphylococcus (20%), Acinetobacter (17.6%), Klebsiella (16.8%), Enterobacter (3.2%), Citrobacter (1.6%), and Chryseobacterium (0.8%). Colistin, polymyxin B, vancomycin, and linezolid were the most effective antibiotics. Conclusion: The predominant bacterial isolates were Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. For treatment, colistin or levofloxacin may be used against Pseudomonas, vancomycin or rifampicin against Staphylococcus, colistin or tigecycline against Acinetobacter, and cefoperazone–sulbactam or linezolid against Klebsiella as reserved antibiotic options.

The microbial etiology and resistance patterns of cosmetic tourism-related infections in Ireland.

Cosmetic tourism is an increasingly common phenomenon, both in Ireland and internationally. Complications associated with procedures performed abroad may manifest after the patient has traveled back to their home country with patients often presenting to local health services. Such complications can be infectious in nature requiring either antimicrobial therapy and/or source control in the form of wound debridement or radiologically guided interventional procedures. Patients who had presented to a regional plastic surgery unit between September 2021 and December 2022 with complications related to aesthetic procedures performed outside Ireland were identified in this retrospective-prospective design. Medical records were reviewed to ascertain what procedures were performed, where the procedure had taken place, the nature of complications, and microbial culture and sensitivity results. Thirty patients were identified during the study timeframe, predominantly female (n = 28) with a mean age of 40.27years (SD 10.6). Abdominoplasty was the most common procedure (n = 17), and Turkey was the most frequently cited destination (70%). Wound dehiscence accounted for the majority of complications (n = 18). Wound cultures were obtained in 80% (n = 24) of patients and a causative organism was isolated in 85% (n = 34) of cultures. Eighteen species of bacteria were identified and antimicrobial sensitivities were obtained for 16 of these. Antimicrobial resistance to commonly prescribed empiric antibiotics was noted in several isolates. Post-operative infections related to cosmetic tourism are a growing concern in plastic surgery. The bacterial etiology is varied, and antimicrobial resistance poses significant challenges, highlighting the need for early intervention and wound cultures to guide effective management.

The Appropriateness of Empirical Uses of Antibiotics Based on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Results for Inpatients at a Tertiary Hospital in Saudi Arabia.

The optimal use of antibiotics represents a cornerstone in controlling antibiotic resistance. Strategies such as antibiotic stewardship programs (ASPs) have been developed to influence the rational use of antibiotics. This study evaluated the appropriateness of the empirical use of antibiotics based on antibiotic susceptibility results with the aim of participating effectively in improving local ASPs. In a cross-sectional study conducted at a tertiary hospital in Saudi Arabia, 500 inpatients received empirical antibiotics, and their culture and sensitivity results were included. The appropriateness of the empirical use of antibiotics was determined based on their alignment with the culture and sensitivity results. More than half of the participants (56.4%) were men, and nearly half (43%) were over 61 years old. The empirical uses of antibiotics were appropriately prescribed in 58% of the patients. Ciprofloxacin and ceftriaxone were the most prescribed antibiotics, while vancomycin, piperacillin-tazobactam, and tigecycline were the most appropriately prescribed antibiotics. E. coli was the main microorganism isolated in the susceptibility results and was appropriately prescribed in 59% of the patients. The highest microbial sensitivity was observed for linezolid, vancomycin, and tigecycline. Antibiotics were appropriately prescribed empirically in more than half of the participants. Activating interventional ASP is crucial to fill the gap in prescribing antimicrobials. Considering the expected type of organisms and the local susceptibility pattern is likely to yield a more appropriate empirical use of antibiotics.

Vaginal Microflora in High Vaginal Swab in Prelabour Rupture of Membrane: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study.

Premature rupture of membrane (PROM) refers to the disruption of the fetal membrane before the beginning of labor, resulting in spontaneous leakage of amniotic fluid. Cervicovaginal infection is an important risk factor of PROM and can lead to complications to mother and the child. This study aimed to delineate the bacterial patterns found in PROM so that the ideal appropriate responsive antibiotics can be chosen. A descriptive cross-sectional was done during the period of 6 months from December of 2023 to May 2023, to characterize the microorganisms in the vaginal fluid found in antenatal women presenting with premature rupture of membraneafter obtaining ethical approval (IRC number: 20102023/02). A total of 117 antenatal women diagnosed with premature rupture of membrane were included in the study. High vaginal swabs were collected for microbial culture and sensitivity. Data were entered using Microsoft Excel 2000 (v9.0) and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 26.0 was used for analysis. Out of 117 samples, culture growth was present in the culture of high vaginal swabs of 23 (19.66%) women. The high vaginal swab cultures from the samples collected in women presenting with PROM reported 9 different types of pathogens E. coli in 12 (52.17%), Klebsiella in 4 (17.39%) and Pseudomonas in 2 (8.70%) cultures. This study reveals diverse microorganisms in premature rupture of membrane cases, with E. coli being the most common. Identifying these bacterial patterns is essential for selecting effective antibiotics, improving maternal and neonatal outcomes, and reducing morbidity and mortality by early detection and treatment of vaginal infections.

Xylitol production by a Wickerhamomyces anomalus strain adapted for enhanced tolerance to sugarcane bagasse hemicellulosic hydrolysate with high content of fermentation inhibitors

BackgroundXylitol, a five-carbon polyalcohol, is used in the food and pharmaceutical industries and as a building block in the synthesis of high-value chemicals. It can be sustainably produced from renewable sources through xylose assimilating microbe fermentation. ResultsWe screened microbial strains for xylitol production and identified Wickerhamomyces anomalus Z1 as a key xylitol producer. Utilizing lignocellulosic biomass hydrolysates for xylitol production poses challenges due to microbial sensitivity to inhibitors from biomass pre-treatment. In this study, an adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) of W. anomalus Z1 was performed by culturing the yeast in a mineral medium supplemented with gradual increases of sugarcane bagasse hemicellulosic hydrolysate (SCHH) obtained by intensified steam explosion pretreatment. The performance of the adapted yeast, named Wickerhamomyces anomalus ALE, was assessed in comparison to the wild-type strain regarding its capacity to produce xylitol using SCHH. The evolved yeast reached a xylitol yield of 0.11 g xylitol/g xylose whereas the wild-type strain could not produce xylitol. Removing acetic acid from SCHH enhanced W. anomalus ALE performance, with optimal results at 75% hydrolyzed hemicellulose, yielding 0.44 g xylitol/g xylose and 13.41 g/L xylitol. ConclusionsThis study demonstrates the potential of W. anomalus ALE in successfully valorizing the hemicellulosic fraction of sugarcane bagasse for sustainable xylitol production.How to cite: Bonfiglio F, Cagno M, Nuñez L, et al. Xylitol production by a Wickerhamomyces anomalus strain adapted for enhanced tolerance to sugarcane bagasse hemicellulosic hydrolysate with high content of fermentation inhibitors. Electron J Biotechnol 2024;71. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejbt.2024.05.004.

Antibacterial Properties of Mint Nanoemulsion Against Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Carrying Beta-Lactamase Resistance Genes

Background: Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is a significant contributor to urinary tract infections (UTIs). The inappropriate prescription and utilization of antibiotics in treating UTIs have resulted in a rise in antibiotic resistance. The aim of this study was to investigate the antibacterial properties of mint nanoemulsion against beta-lactam-resistant strains of UPEC. Methods: Three hundred fifty urine samples were collected in sterile containers and cultured on eosin-methylene blue agar and blood agar media under sterile conditions. Microbial sensitivity testing was conducted using the standard disk diffusion method. Molecular analysis was performed to identify the blaTEM, blaSHV, and blaCTX genes in the samples. The mint nanoemulsion was produced using the low-energy method of spontaneous emulsion formation and characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The antibacterial activity of the mint nanoemulsion against multidrug-resistant (MDR) isolates underwent assessment. Results: One hundred UPEC strains were isolated and identified, showing differing levels of resistance and sensitivity to various antibiotics. Nitrofurantoin exhibited the highest resistance (22%), while amikacin had the lowest resistance (4%). The prevalence of the blaTEM, blaSHV, and blaCTX genes among the UPEC isolates was 93.33%, 100%, and 73.33%, respectively. The mint nanoemulsion demonstrated effective antibacterial activity against resistant isolates, with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 0.2 mg/µL and a minimum bactericidal concentration of 0.3 mg/µL. Conclusion: The resistance of UPEC against conventional antibiotics commonly used to treat UTIs was consistently high and demonstrated an increasing trend over time. This escalating situation could potentially become more severe in the future if the rational consumption of antibiotics is not carefully managed. Nanoemulsions synthesized using mint revealed promising stability and robust antimicrobial properties against UPEC isolates. Consequently, it is evident that these synthesized nanoemulsions represent a viable candidate as effective antimicrobial agents in combating antibiotic resistance in UTI treatment.

Indicative features of tissue and microbial sensitization in the pathogenesis of generalized parodontitis associated with rheumatoid arthritis

In the literature, there are not enough studies that reflect the role and place of tissue and microbial sensitization in patients with generalized parodontitis (GP) associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In our opinion, the research of these components will help to better understand the etiopathogenetic mechanisms of development of GP against the background of RA, which will improve the formation of preventive and therapeutic measures for this disease treatment. The purpose of the research was to determine the location and integration features of tissue and microbial sensitization in the pathogenesis of generalized parodontitis associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Immunological studies were carried out in 335 people, who were divided into 4 groups: Group 1 – the main – consisted of 136 patients with GP on the background of RA; Group 2 – control – 71 people with GP without signs of RA; Group 3 – comparison – 128 people without GP, but with diseases of the musculoskeletal system not related to RA and Group 4 – 30 practically healthy people. To determine microbial and tissue sensitization, we used inhibition reaction of migrating lymphocytes with microbial antigens of streptococci and staphylococci, tissue antigens (bone and synovial). A high frequency of microbial sensitization to streptococcal and staphylococcal antigens was established in patients with GP on the background of RA and in patients with GP without signs of RA. The parodontal focus turned out to be an active focus of microbial sensitization in patients with GP associated with RA and in patients with GP without signs of RA. Established sensitization to bone antigen in a small number of patients (27-33%) with GP, which was significantly more frequent (61-80%) in patients with GP associated with RA, indicates that in the latter, allergy is to a greater extent due to tissue systemic damage to connective tissue than GP. However, a certain allergy to bone tissue in GP may indicate the inclusion of an immune component in the pathogenesis of GP. The presence of microbial and tissue sensitization in patients with GP and RA indicates that similar and cross antigens of streptococcal and staphylococcal microorganisms with connective tissue are a potential trigger for the development of both GP and RA, which is a reason to consider GP and RA comorbid diseases with similar pathogenetic mechanisms of development.

Intrinsic microbial temperature sensitivity and soil organic carbon decomposition in response to climate change.

Soil microbes are essential for regulating carbon stocks under climate change. However, the uncertainty surrounding how microbial temperature responses control carbon losses under warming conditions highlights a significant gap in our climate change models. To address this issue, we conducted a fine-scale analysis of soil organic carbon composition under different temperature gradients and characterized the corresponding microbial growth and physiology across various paddy soils spanning 4000 km in China. Our results showed that warming altered the composition of organic matter, resulting in a reduction in carbohydrates of approximately 0.026% to 0.030% from humid subtropical regions to humid continental regions. These changes were attributed to a decrease in the proportion of cold-preferring bacteria, leading to significant soil carbon losses. Our findings suggest that intrinsic microbial temperature sensitivity plays a crucial role in determining the rate of soil organic carbon decomposition, providing insights into the temperature limitations faced by microbial activities and their impact on soil carbon-climate feedback.

Prevalence of and Risk Factors Associated with Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Carriage Among Cutting Specialties at the Ospital ng Maynila Medical Center

Objective: To determine the point prevalence of, and risk factors associated with MRSA carriage among resident physicians of surgical departments at the Ospital ng Maynila Medical Center. Methods: Design: Cross-sectional Study Setting: Tertiary Government Training Hospital Participants:51 resident physicians from different surgical departments (general surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, ophthalmology, otorhinolaryngology – head and neck surgery and dermatology) underwent nasal and pharyngeal swabs with microbial culture and sensitivity testing to identify MRSA carriers. Fisher Exact Test and logistic regression were utilized to determine associations between MRSA carriage and various risk factors including frequency of hand washing and departmental affiliation. Results: Overall prevalence rate of MRSA carriage was 9.8%. Otorhinolaryngology residents had the highest combined prevalence of MRSA of 42.9%, significantly higher compared to other departments and were used as a reference in logistic regression analyses. Notably, handwashing only once daily was associated with a 20-fold increase in the risk of MRSA carriage (OR 20.5, 95% CI: 1.82 to 230, p = .014). Other departments did not demonstrate statistically significant differences in MRSA carriage rates. Conclusions: Otorhinolaryngology resident physicians had the highest combined prevalence of MRSA and nasal MRSA was found only in otorhinolaryngology residents. The surgical subspecialty and frequency of handwashing of the healthcare worker were identified as important risk factors to develop MRSA carriage. Targeted interventions (including enhanced infection control protocols and regular screening) are needed especially in high-risk departments.

Bacterial diversity, antibiogram and nutritional assessment of cowhide (Ponmo) in Ilishan-Remo central market, Nigeria

The demand for cowhide (ponmo) is currently very high, particularly in Nigeria, due to rising commodity prices, including animal proteins, which has forced a larger percentage of the population who cannot afford meat, chicken, turkey or eggs to rely on other meat products such as “ponmo,” “kundi,” and “tinko” as an alternative source of protein. This research aims to identify microorganisms associated with ponmo, determine the antibiogram of the isolates, and assess the nutritional value of ponmo marketed in Ilishan-Remo central market. Six ponmo vendors were sampled for Dry White Ponmo (DWP), Wet White Ponmo (WWP), Wet Brown Ponmo (WBP) and Brown Ponmo Water (BPW) and transported in sterile containers to the Laboratory for analysis to determine the microbial load, sensitivity, and proximate analysis using standardized methods. For microbiological analysis, samples were tested in triplicate. All samples analyzed had a high microbial load count (from 1.1 x 106 to 1.4 x 107). The organisms isolated were Escherichia coli (34.21 %), Staphylococcus aureus (26.31 %), Klebsiella spp. (18.42 %), Pseudomonas spp. (13.15 %) and Coagulase-negative staphylococci (7.89 %). All the isolates were multidrug-resistant (MDR). Septrin had the highest resistivity (86.84 %) while gentamicin had the lowest resistance (7.89 %). Pefloxacin sensitivity was observed in 37 of the 38 isolates (97.37 % sensitivity). Ciprofloxacin and gentamicin came second and third (84.2 % and 73.68 % sensitivity) respectively. According to the proximate analysis, the WWP has more protein, fat, and fiber, whereas the WBP has more moisture. Food handlers should follow Good Hygiene Practices and take a Food Handlers Test regularly.

Examining Sound, Light, and Vibrations as Tools to Manage Microbes and Support Holobionts, Ecosystems, and Technologies.

The vast array of interconnected microorganisms across Earth's ecosystems and within holobionts has been called the "Internet of Microbes." Bacteria and archaea are masters of energy and information collection, storage, transformation, and dissemination using both "wired" and wireless (at a distance) functions. Specific tools affecting microbial energy and information functions offer effective strategies for managing microbial populations within, between, and beyond holobionts. This narrative review focuses on microbial management using a subset of physical modifiers of microbes: sound and light (as well as related vibrations). These are examined as follows: (1) as tools for managing microbial populations, (2) as tools to support new technologies, (3) as tools for healing humans and other holobionts, and (4) as potential safety dangers for microbial populations and their holobionts. Given microbial sensitivity to sound, light, and vibrations, it is critical that we assign a higher priority to the effects of these physical factors on microbial populations and microbe-laden holobionts. We conclude that specific sound, light, and/or vibrational conditions are significant therapeutic tools that can help support useful microbial populations and help to address the ongoing challenges of holobiont disease. We also caution that inappropriate sound, light, and/or vibration exposure can represent significant hazards that require greater recognition.

Principles of dressing and debridement in modern rural surgery: experience of a case of Fournier’s gangrene

Fournier’s gangrene is a rare and rapidly progressive necrotising fasciitis of the external genitalia and perineum. It is characterised by obliterative endarteritis of the subcutaneous arteries resulting in gangrene of the subcutaneous tissue and the overlying skin. Rural surgery refers to the practice of surgery serving people in rural communities and geographically remote areas. Rural surgery faces multiple challenges like limitation of resources and manpower, poverty, multiple co-morbidities and superstitions. We present such a case of Fournier’s gangrene treated in a secondary care centre of rural Assam. A 45 year old male presented with pain and discharge from the scrotum since two weeks. No other co-morbidities were present. Initially, wound debridement and dressing with hydrogen peroxide and povidone iodine is done. Necrosed tissue is sent for microbial culture and sensitivity. Initially, empirical antibiotics was started and was converted to fluoroquinolones as it showed sensitivity. Serial dressing and debridement were continued till healthy granulation tissue appeared. Then, the wound was closed by loose approximation method. Wound was successfully apposed and viability of both the testis was also found to be intact. Thus, the age-old principle of dressing and debridement still serves as the background of wound care in modern rural surgery.