Multiple Antibiotic Resistance Index Research Articles

β-lactamase and Plasmid-mediated Quinolone Resistance Determinants Among Proteus spp. Isolates at a Tertiary-care Hospital in Kolkata, India

Background: Emerging antibiotic resistance (ABR) in Proteus spp., especially to third-generation cephalosporins (3GCc), carbapenems, and fluoroquinolones, challenges the treatment outcome and infection prevention. Limited studies pose a knowledge gap between them and ABR. Methods: We investigated the in vitro efficacy of therapeutic options and prevalence of β-lac-tamase and plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) traits in 3GC- and/or fluoroquino-lone-nonsusceptible Proteus (P.) spp. (n=27) in Kolkata, India, during 2021–2022. P. mirabilis was commonly isolated (>80%) from superficial and urine samples. The majority of the isolates (48-78%) remained susceptible to piperacillin-tazobactam, meropenem, amikacin, cefoperazone-sulbactam, and cefepime. Results: All isolates showed >0.2 multiple-antibiotic resistance index, with >65% being multi-drug and >30% being extensively drug-resistant. blaTEM (n=9), blaNDM (n=9), and qnrA (n=6) were commonly noted with the co-production of β-lactamases and PMQR in ten (37%) isolates. More than 50% of the isolates were devoid of the tested acquired genes. Conclusion: The study concludes that superbugs dominate, with limited occurrence of plasmid-borne markers in this geographic location.

Phenotypic and molecular characterization of clinically isolated antibiotics-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), E. coli (ESBL) and Acinetobacter 1379 bacterial strains.

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria causing nosocomial infections pose a significant global health concern. This study focused on examining the lipid profiles of both non-resistant and clinically resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA 1418), E. coli (ESBL 1384), and Acinetobacter 1379. The main aim was to investigate the relationship between lipid profiles, hydrophobicity, and antibiotic resistance so as to identify the pathogenic potential and resistance factors of strains isolated from patients with sepsis and urinary tract infections (UTIs). The research included various tests, such as antimicrobial susceptibility assays following CLSI guidelines, biochemical tests, biofilm assays, and hydrophobicity assays. Additionally, gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and GC-Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID) analysis were used for lipid profiling and composition. The clinically isolated resistant strains (MRSA-1418, ESBL-1384, and Acinetobacter 1379) demonstrated resistance phenotypes of 81.80%, 27.6%, and 63.6%, respectively, with a multiple antibiotic resistance index of 0.81, 0.27, and 0.63. Notably, the MRSA-1418 strain, which exhibited resistance, showed significantly higher levels of hemolysin, cell surface hydrophobicity, biofilm index, and a self-aggregative phenotype compared to the non-resistant strains. Gene expression analysis using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Indicated elevated expression levels of intercellular adhesion biofilm-related genes (icaA, icaC, and icaD) in MRSA-1418 (pgaA, pgaC, and pgaB) and Acinetobacter 1379 after 24h compared to non-resistant strains. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed for structural investigation. These findings provide valuable insights into the role of biofilms in antibiotic resistance and suggest potential target pathways for combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Diversity and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of clinical and environmental Salmonella enterica serovars in Western Saudi Arabia.

The diverse environmental distribution of Salmonella makes it a global source of human gastrointestinal infections. This study aimed to detect Salmonella spp. and explore their diversity and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns in clinical and environmental samples. Pre-enrichment, selective enrichment, and selective plating techniques were adopted for the Salmonella detection whereas the API 20E test and Vitek Compact 2 system were used to confirm the identity of isolates. Salmonella serovars were subjected to molecular confirmation by 16S rDNA gene sequencing. Disc diffusion method and Vitek 2 Compact system determined the antibiotic susceptibility of Salmonella serovars. Multiple antibiotic resistance index (MARI) was calculated to explore whether Salmonella serovars originate from areas with heavy antibiotic usage. Results depicted low Salmonella prevalence in clinical and environmental samples (3.5%). The main detected serovars included Salmonella Typhimurium, S. enteritidis, S. Infantis, S. Newlands, S. Heidelberg, S. Indian, S. Reading, and S. paratyphi C. All the detected Salmonella serovars (27) exhibited multidrug resistance to three or more antimicrobial classes. The study concludes that the overall Salmonella serovars prevalence was found to be low in environmental and clinical samples of Western Saudi Arabia (Makkah and Jeddah). However, antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of human and environmental Salmonella serovars revealed that all isolates exhibited multidrug-resistance (MDR) patterns to frequently used antibiotics, which might reflect antibiotic overuse in clinical and veterinary medicine. It would be suitable to apply and enforce rules and regulations from the One Health approach, which aim to prevent antibiotic resistance infections, enhance food safety, and improve human and animal health, given that all Salmonella spp. detected in this investigation were exhibiting MDR patterns.

Environmental reservoirs of multidrug-resistant pseudomonads in a geographical location in Kenya with high community-acquired infections

Background Pseudomonads are gram negative bacteria and readily form biofilms in the environment, allowing long-term colonization and persistence in sinks, water systems. They pose a risk of life-threatening opportunistic infections in immune-compromised individuals. MDR strains, make treatment increasingly difficult. Environmentally persistent MDR strains are typically problematic within healthcare facilities, however, data on MDR pseudomonad reservoirs in settings with community-acquired infections to inform preventive interventions, in resource-constrained settings is scarce. Here, we determined reservoirs and antibiotic susceptibility of Pseudomonas species in water sources in Kisumu County, Kenya with reported high levels of community acquired pseudomonad infections. Methods We adopted a cross-sectional design, randomly collecting 297 samples from tap heads, sinks, tanks, vendor and household storage containers in six selected sub-locations and one hospital (KCRH). Standard microbiological procedures were used for identification and AST of the isolates. Results We isolated Pseudomonads from 14.1% of the samples collected, predominantly from the community 10.4%. Seven different pseudomonads were identified, with Pseudomonas aeruginosa predominating 6.7% overall, in the community samples 5.7%, and among isolates from water tanks 21.4%. Pseudomonad isolates were 62% non-susceptible to piperacillin, 57% to tigecycline, 24% meropenem, 21% cefepime, 19% levofloxacin and 14% colistin. Carbapenem resistance was mainly detected in P. aeruginosa 80% (8/10) from Milimani sub-location 75% (6/8). 45% of the isolates recovered were MDR, mainly community-associated carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa (CRPA) 42%, strains susceptible to colistin. The MDR pseudomonads exhibited high multiple antibiotic resistance indices, ranging from 0.43 to 1. Conclusion This study reveals a higher prevalence of MDR pseudomonads, including CRPA strains in community water sources. These potential conduits of drug resistance present a critical public health threat, especially among immunocompromised. Regular cleaning of water storage facilities, water treatment and implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programs, are required to prevent a rise in AMR and eliminate the environmental reservoirs that put the vulnerable populations at risk.

Antibiotic resistance profiles of sentinel bacteria isolated from aquaculture in Cambodia

ABSTRACT The misuse of antibiotics and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a concern in the aquaculture industry because it contributes to global health risks and impacts the environment. This study analyzed the AMR of sentinel bacteria associated with striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) and giant snakehead (Channa micropeltes), the two main fish species reared in the pond culture in Cambodia. Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of the recovered isolates from fish, water, and sediment revealed the presence of bacteria, such as 22 species belonging to families Aeromonadaceae, Enterobacteriaceae, and Pseudomonadaceae. Among 48 isolates, Aeromonas caviae (n = 2), Aeromonas hydrophila (n = 2), Aeromonas ichthiosmia (n = 1), and Aeromonas salmonicida (n = 4) were detected. Both A. salmonicida and A. hydrophila are known as fish pathogens that occur worldwide in both fresh and marine water aquaculture. Antibiotic susceptibility testing for Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonadaceae species and six antibiotics for Aeromonadaceae species revealed antibiotic resistance patterns of 24 (50%) isolates among the 48 isolates with higher multiple antibiotic resistance index scores (>0.2). All the isolates of Enterobacteriaceae were susceptible to ciprofloxacin. Ciprofloxacin is a frontline antibiotic that is not recommended for use in aquaculture. This study expands our knowledge of the AMR status in aquaculture farms, which is very limited in Cambodia.

Uncovering the growing burden of enteric fever: A molecular analysis of Salmonella Typhi antimicrobial resistance

Enteric fever, a persistent public health challenge in developing regions, is exacerbated by suboptimal socioeconomic conditions, contaminated water and food sources, and insufficient sanitation. This study delves into the antimicrobial susceptibility of Salmonella Typhi, uncovering the genetic underpinnings of its resistance. Analyzing 897 suspected cases, we identified a significant prevalence of typhoid fever, predominantly in males (58.3 %) and younger demographics. Alarmingly, our data reveals an escalation in resistance to both primary and secondary antibiotics, with cases of multi-drug resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) S. Typhi reaching 14.7 % and 43.4 %, respectively, in 2021. The Multiple Antibiotic Resistance (MAR) index exceeded 0.2 in over half of the isolates, signaling widespread antibiotic misuse. The study discerned 47 unique antibiotic resistance patterns and pinpointed carbapenem and macrolide antibiotics as the remaining effective treatments against XDR strains, underlining the critical need to preserve these drugs for severe cases. Molecular examinations identified blaTEM, blaSHV, and blaCTX-M genes in ceftriaxone-resistant strains, while qnrS was specific to ciprofloxacin-resistant variants. Notably, all examined strains exhibited a singular mutation in the gyrA gene, maintaining wild-type gyrB and parC genes. The erm(B) gene emerged as the primary determinant of azithromycin resistance. Furthermore, a distressing increase in resistance genes was observed over three years, with erm(B), blaTEM and qnrS showing significant upward trends. These findings are a clarion call for robust antimicrobial stewardship programs to curtail inappropriate antibiotic use and forestall the burgeoning threat of antibiotic resistance in S. Typhi.

Animal-Originated Foods as Potential Sources of Multidrug-Resistant Diarrheagenic E. coli Pathotypes in Kayseri, Türkiye

This study aims to determine the prevalence and antibiotic resistance profile of diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) pathotypes from a total of 300 cattle-derived food samples, including 50 raw milk, 50 cheese, 25 yogurt, 25 meatballs, 50 minced meat, 50 cubed meat, 25 sausages, and 25 pastirma. DEC pathotypes were detected by amplification of pathotype-specific virulence genes with PCR and the antimicrobial resistance profile of isolates was assessed by the disc diffusion method. E. coli was found to be positive in 215 of the analyzed samples, of which 55 (26%) were identified as DEC. The highest DEC prevalence was observed in cubed meat (40%), followed by meatballs (36%), sausage (32%), minced meat (28%), and cheese (8%). The most frequently identified DEC pathotype was EIEC (45.4%), followed by ETEC (23.6%), EPEC (20%), DAEC (7.2%), and STEC O157 (3.6%). Of the DEC strains, 52.7% displayed resistance to at least two antibiotics. Among them, 26 (89.6%) were identified as multidrug-resistant (MDR) with a multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index greater than 0.2. These findings suggest that the samples likely originated from sources where frequent antibiotic usage is common, posing a significant risk. This study revealed that the prevalence of MDR-DECs in the analyzed animal-originated food products might pose a serious public health concern due to the potential transmission of resistant bacteria and resistance genes to humans through the food chain.

Physical quality and antibiotic susceptibility profile of <i>Escherichia coli</i> isolates from roof-harvested rainwater: A microcosm study

Owing to the inadequate supply of potable water in rural settlements in developing countries, roof-harvested rainwater (RHRW) has been favoured as an alternative source of water supply. The present study investigated the physical characteristics and microbial quality of 10 RHRW samples collected from storage tanks in Ikwo community of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Triplicate water sampling was performed over a 3-month sampling regime. Onsite determination of odour, colour, pH and temperature, and isolation and enumeration of Escherichia coli were done using standard procedures. The identity of the isolates was confirmed using molecular techniques, and the susceptibility of the isolates to 11 antibiotics was determined following the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion assay. Multiple antibiotic resistance phenotypes and indices (MARPs and MARI) were equally determined. Our findings revealed that the RHRWs had unobjectionable odour and were colourless. Across the 3-month o sampling, the pH ranged from 6.9 to 7.8 while the temperature was between 24 °C and 29 C. While E. coli was absent in samples E (September), H (August and October) and J (August, September, and October), the highest E. coli count in August, September, and October was 37, 32, and 38 cfu/100 mL, respectively. The antibiotic susceptibility test on 40 E. coli isolates showed high resistance to ampicillin (100%), aztreonam (98%), cefotetan (97%), nitrofurantoin (90%), imipenem (83%), streptomycin (72%), and ertapenem (69%). Interestingly, the ighest MARP, 11 (AK/S/ETP/IMI/OFX/NOR/AMP/CTT/ATM/F/TE) (sample B), and the least, 4 (IMI/AMP/CTT/ATM) were recorded in samples B and D, respectively in September. MARI was from 0.42 to 1.00. The physical parameters conform with WHO standards, on the other hand, detection of E. coli poses risks of water-borne illness(es) and transmission of antimicrobial resistance. Hence stringent measures including proper treatment, sanitation and hygiene are advocated to safeguard the health of dwellers who depend on this water source for daily life activities.

ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE OF ESBL-PRODUCING E. COLI AND OTHER GRAM-NEGATIVE BACTERIA ISOLATED FROM STREET-VENDED FOODS IN BANGLADESH

The prevalence and impact of antibiotic-resistant pathogens transmitted through food, particularly street-vended foods, is becoming a major public health concern. Although a significant proportion of the urban population in developing countries consumes street-vended foods, the role of these foods in spreading antibiotic resistance has been rarely investigated. In this study, 50 bacterial isolates were obtained from 25 samples representing five categories of street-vended foods: Phuchka, Chatpati, Sausage, Bun, and Salad. The IMVIC test revealed a notably high occurrence of Escherichia coli (n=32) within the collected samples. Three representative isolates were selected for molecular identification using DNA sequencing of 16S rDNA. They were identified as Klebsiella oxytoca, Burkholderia fungorum, and Serratia nematodiphila. The antibiotic susceptibility of the identified isolates (n=35) was investigated using twelve antibiotics following the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Around 65.63% of the E. coli isolates (n=21) exhibited multidrug resistance. Double Disc Synergy Test (DDST) and Phenotypic Confirmatory Disk Diffusion Test (PCDDT) confirmed ESBL production of Eight multidrug-resistant E. coli isolates (38.09%). The multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index showed that 22 E. coli isolates had MAR above 0.2, with resistance mostly against oxacillin, ampicillin, and cefuroxime. The Klebsiella oxytoca isolate showed multidrug resistance viz., ampicillin, oxacillin, cefuroxime, and kanamycin. The Burkholderia fungorum isolate showed no distinct inhibition zone against ampicillin and chloramphenicol. Additionally, the Serratia nematodiphila isolate showed no distinct inhibition zone against three antibiotics, including ampicillin, oxacillin, and cefuroxime. These findings might contribute to the knowledge of emerging antibiotic-resistant foodborne pathogens and raise concerns about the safety of street-vended foods in Bangladesh.

Antimicrobial Resistance Profile of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Isolated in Garaku, Keffi and Mararaban-Gurku Healthcentres, Nasarawa-West Senatorial District, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Aims: This Study is aimed at studying the Antimicrobial Resistance profile of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli isolated in Garaku, Keffi and Mararaban-gurku Healthcentres, Nasarawa-West Senatorial District, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Study Design: is a survey research. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, between June, 2021 and January,2024. Methodology: 384 urine samples of patients with suspected cases of UTIs were collected and E. coli was isolated and identified using standard microbiological methods. Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing of the isolates was carried out in accordance with the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) method. Results: The occurrence of E. coli was 92(24%). The isolates were generally more resistant to Ampicillin (AMP) with 75.0%. Streptomycin (S) 70.7% Cefotaxime (CTX) 68.5% but less resistant to Ciprofloxacin (9.8%) followed by Gentamicin 17.4%. The commonest resistance phenotype was AMC-AMP-CAZ-CTX-S-SXT (5.4%). Most of the isolates showed multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) Index of above 0.2 with the commonest MAR Index at GHK, GHG and MCM-g of 0.7(21.4%), 0.4(28.0%) and 0.3(23.1%) respectively. The antibiotics resistant E. coli isolates were grouped into different categories of antibiotic resistance namely: Non Multiple Drug Resistance (NMDR); Excessive Drug Resistance (XDR); Multiple Drug Resistance (MDR) and Pan Drug Resistance (PDR). The occurrence of classes of antibiotic resistance was of the orderMDR75(81.5%) ˃ NMDR9(9.8%) ˃XDR7(7.6%) > PDR 1(1.1%). Conclusion: with the results from this research, E. coli being non susceptible to many antimicrobials is a clear indication that, prescription of these antimicrobials by physicians and usage by patients must be done with diligence and utmost care and vigorous campaign by stakeholders must be step up to bring to the barest minimum incidences of Antimicrobial resistance.

Prevalence of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamases (ESBLs) Producing Aeromonas spp. Isolated from Lamellidens marginalis (Lamark, 1819) of Sewage-Fed Wetland: A Phenotypic and Genotypic Approach.

The global rise of zoonotic bacteria resistant to multiple antimicrobial classes and the growing occurrence of infections caused by Aeromonas spp. resistant to β-lactam antibiotics pose a severe threat to animal and human health. However, the contribution of natural environments, particularly aquatic ecosystems, as ideal settings for the development and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a key concern. Investigating the phenotypic antibiotic resistance and detection of β-lactamase producing Aeromonas spp. in Lamellidens marginalis, which inhabit all freshwater ecosystems of the Indian subcontinent, is essential for implications in monitoring food safety and drug resistance. In the present investigation, 92 isolates of Aeromonas spp. were recovered from 105 bivalves and screened for their antimicrobial resistance patterns. In vitro antibiotic resistance profiling showed a higher Multiple Antibiotic Resistance (MAR) index of 0.8 with the highest resistance against ampicillin/sulbactam (82%), while 58, 44, 39 and 38% of the isolates were resistant to cephalothin, erythromycin, cefoxitin and imipenem, respectively. PCR results revealed that these isolates carried the blaTEM gene (94%), which was followed by the blaCTX-M gene (51%) and the blaSHV gene (45%). A combination of blaSHV, blaCTX-M, and blaTEM genes was found in 17% of the isolates, indicating the presence of all three resistance genes. This is the first investigation which highlights the importance of multidrug-resistant Aeromonas spp. in L. marginalis. The identification of extended-spectrum-β-lactamases (ESBLs) genes demand the necessity of continuous surveillance and systematic monitoring, considering its potential health risks for both animals and human beings.

Prevalence of antimicrobial resistance, biofilm formation, efflux pump activity, and virulence capabilities in multi-drug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from freshwater fish farms.

The present study aimed to determine the antibiotic resistance, underlying mechanisms, antibiotic residues, and virulence genes involved in 32 multi-drug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates from freshwater fishes in Andhra Pradesh, India. Antibiogram studies revealed that all isolates were multi-drug-resistant, harbored tetA (96.8%), tetC (59.3%), tetD (71.9%), nfsA (59.3%), nfsB (53.1%), sul2 (68.7%), qnrC (43.7%), qnrD (50%), blaSHV (75%), blaTEM (68.7%), and blaCTX-M (93.7%) genes. Multiple antibiotic resistance index was calculated as 0.54. Sixteen isolates were confirmed to be hyper-virulent and harbored magA and rmpA genes. In total, 46.9, 31.2, and 21.9% of the isolates were categorized as strong, moderate, or weak biofilm formers, respectively. All isolates possessed an active efflux pump and harbored acrA, acrB, acrAB, and tolC genes in 94% of the isolates, followed by mdtK (56.2%). Porins such as ompK35 and ompK36 were detected in 59.3 and 62.5% of the isolates, respectively. Virulence genes fimH-1, mrkD, and entB were present in 84.3, 81.2, 87.5% of the isolates, respectively. These findings imply a potential threat that multi-drug-resistant bacterial pathogens could transmit to surrounding environments and humans through contaminated water and the aquaculture food chain.

Prevalence, genetic diversity, and antimicrobial susceptibility of Vibrio spp. infected gilthead sea breams from coastal farms at Damietta, Egypt

BackgroundVibriosis is one of the most serious bacterial diseases and causes high morbidity and mortality among cultured sea breams. This study was undertaken to track the surveillance of Vibrio infection and its correlation to environmental factors. A total of 115 gilthead sea breams were collected seasonally from a private earthen pond fish farm in the Shatta area of Damietta, Egypt from September 2022 to July 2023. Physicochemical parameters of water were analyzed, and heavy metal levels were measured. The fish samples were subjected to clinical, bacteriological, Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus (ERIC) fingerprinting, and hematoxylin and Eosin histopathological staining.ResultsThe results revealed significant variations in the water quality parameters over different seasons, in addition to an increase in heavy metals. Naturally infected fish showed external signs and postmortem lesions that were relevant to bacterial infection. Two dominant Vibrio subspecies of bacteria were identified: V. alginolyticus (205 isolates) and V. fluvialis (87 isolates). PCR confirmed the presence of V. alginolyticus using the species-specific primer collagenase at 737 bp. The highest prevalence of V. alginolyticus was detected during the summer season (57.72%), and the lowest prevalence was observed in autumn (39.75%). The correlation analysis revealed a positive relationship between V. alginolyticus and water temperature (r = 0.69). On the other hand, V. fluvialis showed a high prevalence during the autumn season (25.30%) and the lowest prevalence during the summer season (10.56%), where it was negatively correlated with water temperatures (r =—0.03). ERIC fingerprinting showed genetic variation within the Vibrio isolates. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed sensitivity to ciprofloxacin and doxycycline, and resistance to amoxicillin and erythromycin. The multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index values for V. alginolyticus and V. fluvialis ranged from 0.3 to 0.7, with a multi-drug resistance pattern to at least three antibiotics. Histopathological alterations in the affected tissues revealed marked hemorrhage, vascular congestion, and hemosiderosis infiltration.ConclusionThis study provides insights into the potential propagation of waterborne diseases and antibiotic resistance in the environment. Ensuring that the environment does not serve as a reservoir for virulent and contagious Vibrio species is a critical concern for regional aquaculture industries. Therefore, we recommend implementing environmental context-specific monitoring and surveillance tools for microbial resistance.

Antimicrobial Resistance Profile and Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamase Resistance Genes in Escherichia coli from Patients in General Hospital, Karshi, Abuja, Nigeria

Aims: This study investigated the antimicrobial resistance profile and extended spectrum beta-lactamase resistance genes in Escherichia coli of from urine of patients sourced from General Hospital, Karshi, Abuja, Nigeria. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, between August 2022 and February 2023. Methodology: A total of 120 samples were collected from patients. Escherichia coli was isolated from the samples using standard microbiological methods. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was evaluated as described by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). The detection of ESBL production in E. coli isolates was carried out using double disc synergy test. In addition, molecular detection of ESBL genes was carried out using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) method. Results: The prevalence of E. coli was 17.5% (21/120), out of which two (2) of the positive isolates (9.5%) were male, and 19 (90.5%) female. Antibiotic resistances in the isolates in decreasing order were as follows: sulphamethoxazole / trimethoprim (SXT: 81.0%), amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (AMC: 61.9%), ofloxacin (OFX: 66.7%), cefotaxime (CTX: 53.4%), gentamicin (CN: 42.9%), ceftriaxone (CRO: 33.3%), imipenem (IPM: 33.3%), meropenem (MOR: 42.4%), nitrofurantoin (NET: 20.3%) and ciprofloxacin (CIP: 23.8%). The commonest antibiotic resistant resistance phenotype was CIP-OFX-SXT (23.8%). Multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) was observed in 90.5% (19/21) of the isolates, with the common MAR index being 0.3 (23.8%). Six of the twenty one beta-lactam resistant isolates (28.5%) were confirmed ESBL producers. The 6 ESBL positive isolates carried bla genes as follows: blaTEM (1/6, 16.7%) and blaCTX-M (1/6, 16.7%). blaSHV only was not found in any of the isolates. Conclusion: The E. coli isolates from urine of patients in General Hospital, Karshi, Abuja, Nigeria was less resistant to ciprofloxacin, nitrofurantoin, meropenem and imipenem. This implies that the antibiotics are useful in the treatment of infection caused by E. coli. Also, ESBL-positive E. coli isolates harbored ESBL genes, with blaCTX-M and blaTEM as the most common.

Bacteriological Analysis and Plasmid Profiles of Surfaces of Some Hospital Kitchen Equipment in Benin City, Nigeria

The surfaces of hospital kitchen equipment could be a major source of transmission of resistant pathogens to patients. Hence, the objective of this paper was to assess the bacteriological and plasmid profiles of surfaces of tables, sinks, chopping-boards, gas cookers and freezer handles hospital kitchen equipment in Benin City, Nigeria using appropriate standard microbiological techniques. Bacterial plasmids were isolated and separated using the agarose gel electrophoresis. Plasmid curing was performed using acridine orange. The antimicrobial sensitivity pattern showed that the bacterial isolates exhibited varying degree of resistance to the antibiotics. Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were highly resistant to the antibiotics, having multiple antibiotic resistances (MAR) index of 0.6. Micrococcus spp. and Klebsiella pneumoniae were the least resistant to the antibiotics. Plasmid analysis revealed the presence of single and multiple-banded plasmids with sizes ranging from 100-1000bp. After curing, all the isolates (except S. aureus, E. coli and P. aeruginosa) were sensitive to all the antibiotics, indicating a significant reduction in antibiotic resistance after curing. The results revealed that plasmids played a significant role in conferring resistance on the isolates. Regular cleaning and disinfection should be strictly observed in hospital kitchens to prevent outbreaks and spread of resistant pathogens in hospitals.

Molecular Characterization of Plasmid-mediated Quinolone Resistant Salmonella typhi From Patients Attending Federal Medical Center, Jabi, Abuja, Nigeria

Aims: This study investigates and reports the detection of qnr genes (plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance PMQR) in S.typhi isolated from stool of patients with suspected typhoid fever, in Federal Medical Center, Jabi, Abuja, Nigeria. Study Design: Cross sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, between October 2022 and November 2023. Methodology: Salmonella typhi was isolated from stool of patients with suspected typhoid fever using standard culture and microbiological methods. Antibiotic susceptibility testing were performed using the disc diffusion method to investigate the ability of S. typhi to resist some antibiotics. Qnr genes (qnrC,qnrD,qnrS) were detected by PCR and amplification. Results: 17 out of 150 (11.3%) of the samples collected had S.typhi. Antibiotic resistance in the isolates in decreasing order were as follows: cefotaxime (100.0%), amoxicillin/ clavulanic acid (94.1%), nalidixic acid (94.1%), cefuroxime (94.1%), imipenems (88.2%), ceftriaxone/sulbactam (82.4%), ciprofloxacin (82.4%), gentamicin (58.8%), levofloxacin (47.1%) and ofloxacin (29.4%).The commonest antibiotic resistant phenotype was AUG- CTX-IMP-OFX-CN-NA-CXM-CRO-CIP-LBC at 29.4%. Multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) was observed in 100% (17/17) of the isolates with the common MAR indices being 1.0 (29.4%), 0.7 (23.5%), 0.8 (17.6%) and 0.5 (17.6%). 33.3% of the isolates in FMCJ were positive for qnrC,qnrD,qnrS,qnrA+qnrC and qnrS+ aac(6′)-Ib-cr as all of qnrC qnrD,and qnrS genes were all expressed in the isolates. Conclusion: The S. typhi isolates showed lower resistances to ofloxacin, levofloxacin, and gentamicin, and all isolates were MAR, with resistance to 10 antibiotics being the most predominant. In addition, qnrC,qnrD, and qnrS resistance genes were all expressed in the isolates.

Vibrio infection in freshwater fish in Poland.

Vibrio species are common inhabitants of aquatic environments and have been described in connection with fish and human diseases. Six Vibrio species were isolated from diseased freshwater and ornamental fish in Poland. The strains were identified based on morphological and biochemical characteristics and confirmed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) as V. albensis (n=3) from Gymnocephalus cernua, Sander lucioperca, Paracheirodon innesi, and Xiphophorus hellerii; V. mimicus (n=1) from Xiphophorus maculatus; and V. vulnificus (n=1) from Nematobrycon palmeri. This is the first time that Vibrio species have been isolated and described from ornamental fish in Poland. The isolates were resistant to ampicillin (83.3%), gentamicin (16.6%), ciprofloxacin (16.6%), sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (16.6%), and chloramphenicol (16.6%). The multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index was 0.00-0.08 for V. albensis, 0.17 for V. mimicus, and 0.33 for V. vulnificus. Our study confirmed the presence of potentially pathogenic Vibrio species in freshwater and ornamental fish. Therefore, further monitoring of the presence of Vibrio species, mainly in ornamental fish, is necessary.

Antimicrobial resistance markers distribution in Staphylococcus aureus from Nsukka, Nigeria

BackgroundMultidrug resistance in Staphylococcus aureus continues to influence treatment complications in clinical settings globally. Multidrug-resistant-S. aureus (MDR-SA) is often genetically driven by resistance markers transferable in pathogenic strains. This study aimed to determine the distribution of resistance markers in clinical isolates of S. aureus in Nsukka, Nigeria.MethodsA total of 154 clinical samples were cultured on mannitol salt agar. Isolates were characterized using conventional cultural techniques and confirmed by PCR detection of S. aureus-specific nuc gene. Antibiotic resistance profiles of the isolates were determined against selected antibiotics using the disk-diffusion method, while screening for antibiotic resistance genes (Mec A, Erm A, Erm B, Erm C, Van A, and Van B) was by PCR.ResultsA total of 98 isolates were identified as S. aureus by conventional methods. Of these, 70 (71.43%) were confirmed by PCR. Phenotypically, the isolates exhibited high degrees of resistance to oxacillin (95.72%), erythromycin (81.63%), and ertapenem (78.57%) and 75.51% and 47.30% against methicillin and vancomycin, respectively. Multiple antibiotic resistance indexes of the isolates ranged from 0.3 to 1, and the most prevalent pattern of resistance was oxacillin-ertapenem-vancomycin-erythromycin-azithromycin-clarithromycin-ciprofloxacin- cefoxitin-amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. PCR screening confirmed the existence of various antibiotic resistance makers among the strains, with the most common resistance genes found in the isolates being Mec A (32.14%), Van A (21.43%), Van B (10.71%), Erm B (10.71%), and Erm C (17.86%). None possessed the Erm A gene.ConclusionThe study supports the need for necessary action, including rational drug use, continuous surveillance, and deployment of adequate preventive and curative policies and actions.

Antimicrobial resistance profiles of Escherichia coli derived from an integrated agroforestry-livestock system in Deli Serdang Regency, Indonesia

Background and Aim: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a significant global concern. Epidemiological data do not provide a robust description of the potential risks associated with AMR in the integrated agroforestry-livestock systems in Indonesia. Thus, the present study investigated the phenotypic and multidrug resistance (MDR) profiles of Escherichia coli strains isolated from the feces of livestock raised in the agro-silvopastoral system in Deli Serdang Regency, North Sumatra Province. Materials and Methods: A standard microbiological culture procedure was followed to isolate the organism and test antibiotic susceptibility using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion protocol. Furthermore, the multiple antibiotic resistance index was determined. Univariate analysis was conducted to identify the risk factors associated with AMR. Results: The vast majority (77.5%) of livestock farmers were aged >30 years. All farmers were men and had no higher education (100% of them). The majority of the animal species managed were cattle and goats (37.5% each) and the livestock grazing pasture system (67.5%). In addition, the majority of farmers reported high antimicrobial use on their farms (87.5%). Of the samples (n = 142) analyzed, n = 70 were positive, with an overall prevalence of 44.4%. The species-specific prevalences of E. coli were 32.5%, 47.8%, and 50% in buffalo, goat, and cattle, respectively. Ampicillin and tetracyclines exhibited high resistance levels among the studied animal species. A relatively lower MDR for E. coli was associated with grazing on the pasture. Conclusion: The findings from the current study provide baseline epidemiological information for future robust studies aimed at elucidating the drivers and patterns of AMR in agro-silvopastoral systems in the study area or elsewhere. Keywords: agro-silvopastoral, antimicrobial Resistance, Escherichia coli,Indonesia, livestock, multidrug resistance.

Multidrug resistant profiles of clinical isolates of Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Shigella species

In order to determine the antibiotic susceptibility pattern and multi antibiotic resistance index of E.coli, Salmonella typhi and Shigella species, a total of 32 pre-identified clinical isolates were obtained and subjected to conventional biochemical and gram staining reaction for confirmation. Antibiotic susceptibility testing to ten commonly prescribed antibiotics (Amplicin (PN:30 mcg), Gentamicin (GEN:10 mcg), Streptomycin (STR:30 mcg), Septrin (SXT:30 mcg), Nalidixic acid (NAL:30 mcg), Ciprofloxacin (CIP:10 mcg), Augmentin (AU:30 mcg), Reflacin (PEF:10 mcg), Tarivid (OFX:10mcg), and Ceporexin (CEP:10 mcg) was considered using disc agar diffusion method and reported with the Clinical and Laboratory Standard Institute Interpretative chart. Zones of inhibition were measured and Multiple Antibiotic Resistance index was calculated. Salmonella isolates demonstrated a high rate of susceptibility to Tarivid (90%), Reflaxin (90%), Gentamycin (80%), ciprofloxacin (60%), Augmentin (80%) and moderately susceptible to Streptomycin (40%) and Septrin (20%) with high resistance to Nalidixic acid (90%), Amplicin (90%) and Ceporexin (70%). Nearly all Shigella isolates were susceptible to Augmentin (80%), Reflaxin (90%), Tarivid (80%), intermediate susceptibility was also noted in Streptomycin (40%) and Ceporexin (50%) while high resistance to ciprofloxacin (80%), Amplicin (90%), Septrin (70%) and Nalidixi acid (90%). High rate of resistance was observed to nearly five antibiotics in E,coli with low susceptibility rate to all the antibiotics tested. All the isolates had Multiple Antibiotic Resistance index greater than 0.2 and above. This may be as a result of previous exposure to antibiotics and development of resistance to commonly prescribed antibiotics, hence, antimicrobial susceptibility testing is imperative in selecting therapeutic options.