Positive Bacteria Research Articles

Current Trends of Resistance Among Gram Negative and Gram Positive Bacteria Isolated from Tertiary Care Hospital

Introduction: Nosocomial infections (NIs) following antimicrobial resistance becomes serious public health concern across the world. It affects the length of hospital stay and cost burden on the health care system. Rapid increase in resistance against commonly used antibiotics results in emergence of multi-drug resistant organisms. Material and Methods: This retrospective study was done at CMH Sialkot over the period of six months. All types of clinical samples were included and were processed according to standard microbiological procedures. Organisms were identified by using different biochemical tests. AST were performed by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method according to CLSI guidelines. Results: Total 402 organisms were isolated among which 57% were gram positive while 43% were Gram negative bacteria. MRSA (31%) was most prevalent in Gram positive bacteria while E.coli(50%) was found to be most common in Gram negative bacteria. Gram-positive bacteria showed maximum resistance against Fluoroquinolones, while Co-trimoxazole and Cephalosporins were least susceptible against Gram-negative bacteria. Conclusion: Nosocomial infections Because of their importance, antibiotic usage policies should be taken and implemented on a priority basis in the agenda of the infection control committees of hospitals.

Enterococci as a One Health Indicator of Antimicrobial Resistance.

The rapid increase of antimicrobial resistant bacteria in humans and livestock is concerning. Antimicrobials are essential for the treatment of disease in modern day medicine and their misuse in humans and food animals has contributed to an increase in the prevalence of antimicrobial resistant bacteria. Globally, antimicrobial resistance is recognized as an One-health problem affecting humans, animals and environment. Enterococcal species are gram positive bacteria that are widely distributed in nature. Their occurrence, prevalence and persistence across the One-health continuum make them an ideal candidate to study antimicrobial resistance from a One-health perspective. The objective of this review was to summarize the role of enterococci as an indicator of antimicrobial resistance across One-health sectors. We also briefly address the prevalence of enterococci in human, animal and environmental settings. In addition, a 16S RNA gene based phylogenetic tree was constructed to visualize the evolutionary relationship among enterococcal species and if they segregate based on host environment. We also review the genomic basis of antimicrobial resistance in Enterococcal species across the One Health Continuum.

Jeotgalibacillus haloalkalitolerans sp. nov., a novel alkalitolerant and halotolerant bacterium, isolated from the confluence of the Fenhe River and the Yellow River.

A Gram-stain positive, aerobic, alkalitolerant and halotolerant bacterium, designated HH7-29T, was isolated from the confluence of the Fenhe River and the Yellow River in Shanxi Province, PR China. Growth occurred at pH 6.0-12.0 (optimum, pH 8.0-8.5) and 15-40℃ (optimum, 32℃) with 0.5-24% NaCl (optimum, 2-9%). The predominant fatty acids (> 10.0%) were iso-C15:0 and anteiso-C15:0. The major menaquinones were MK-7 and MK-8. The polar lipids were phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol and two unidentified phospholipids. Phylogenetic analyses based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that strain HH7-29T was a member of the genus Jeotgalibacillus, exhibiting high sequence similarity to the 16S rRNA gene sequences of Jeotgalibacillus alkaliphilus JC303T (98.4%), Jeotgalibacillus salarius ASL-1T (98.1%) and Jeotgalibacillus alimentarius YKJ-13T (98.1%). The genomic DNA G + C content was 43.0%. Gene annotation showed that strain HH7-29T had lower protein isoelectric points (pIs) and possessed genes related to ion transport and organic osmoprotectant uptake, implying its potential tolerance to salt and alkali. The average nucleotide identity, digital DNA-DNA hybridization values, amino acid identity values, and percentage of conserved proteins values between strain HH7-29T and its related species were 71.1-83.8%, 19.5-27.4%, 66.5-88.4% and 59.8-76.6%, respectively. Based on the analyses of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic, phylogenetic and genomic features, strain HH7-29T represents a novel species of the genus Jeotgalibacillus, for which the name Jeotgalibacillus haloalkalitolerans sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is HH7-29T (= KCTC 43417T = MCCC 1K07541T).

EVALUATION OF THE ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY OF SOME COMMONLY USED TOOTHPASTES AGAINST SOME PATHOGENIC MICROORGANISMS

EVALUATION OF THE ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY OF SOME COMMONLY USED TOOTHPASTES AGAINST SOME PATHOGENIC MICROORGANISMS

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss related to Streptococcus suis meningitis

Background: Streptococcus suis meningitis is caused by Streptococcus suis, gram positive bacteria which is a pathogen mainly in pigs. It is an emerging zoonosis globally with highest incidence in Southeast Asia. The main risk factors are contact with infected pigs and consumption of raw or moderately cooked pork. Bilateral sudden sensorineural hearing loss is a remarakable symptom in this disease. Early initiation of antibiotic and systemic corticosteroids is recommended to improve clinical outcome and reduce complications. Even so, despite adequate treatment, sensorineural hearing loss related to S. suis meningitis is usually irreversible. We report two male patients consulted to otorhinolaryngology department regarding decreased hearing in both ears. Both patients was previously admitted because of altered mental status, accompanied with fever and headache. History of eating traditional Balinese pork dish before the onset was noted. Pure-tone audiometry revealed bilateral sensorineural hearing loss in both patients. Diagnosis of S. suis meningitis was established and treatment was prompted. Clinically, both patients showed improvement but evaluation audiometry showed no remarkable improvement in hearing threshold. Therefore, transmission avoidance, infection prevention, hygiene practice and educational activities are essential.

Incidence of drug resistance bacterial isolates from different Pyoderma cases attending at tertiary care hospital of Central Nepal

Background & Objectives: Pyoderma is defined as any purulent skin disease and represents infections in epidermis and dermis including hair follicles. Thus, this study was conducted to find out incidence and bacteriological profile of pyodermas as well as to determine their antibiotic susceptibility test of isolated bacteria. Materials and Methods: The samples were collected in dermatological OPD and sent the collected samples immediately to bacteriology laboratory for culture and sensitivity tests from December 2018 to May 2019 A.D. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done using Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method and the results were interpreted according to the CLSI guidelines. Quality control of the test was done by standard ATCC strains of S.aureus (ATCC 25923), E.coli (ATCC 25922). Results: The incidence of pyoderma was 3.24%. Maximum cases were detected in the age group below 13 years of age. Primary pyoderma (61.8%) was more frequent when compared to secondary pyoderma (38.2%). The highest number of organism isolated was S. aureus (24.7%) from different cases of pyoderma followed by E. coli (8.2%), CONS (6.1%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (5.1%) whereas other organisms were found in less number. Gram positive bacteria mainly S. aureus and other isolates for the cause of pyoderma were mostly resistant to penicillin (100%), ciprofloxacillin (75.0%) and clindamycin (79.2%). Gram negative E. coli (8.2%) was second most bacterial isolates and others GNB isolates were (14/63) where resistance pattern were seen more (75.0%) in each ceftrixone and imipenem. Conclusion: Incidence of pyoderma was low among the patients visiting to the Dermatology Department. Antibiotic resistance is increasing day by day; therefore, routine culture and sensitivity tests are essential to guide proper treatment procedure.

Chemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of Volatile Compounds Genista carinalis Plant

Essential oils play a significant role in the plant chemistry. Natural products have been widely used in antiviral, antibacterial, antiparasitic, antifungal, insecticidal, medicinal and cosmetic applications since the Middle Age. Our aim in this study was to investigate the volatile components of the Genista carinalis Griseb. (Fabaceae) plant grown in the Trakya region by GC-MS method and to determine the antibacterial activity of the raw extracts. Volatile components of n-hexane extract from the plant G. carinalis were investigated using the GC-MS method. As a result of our research on the volatile components of G. carinalis, fifty-two bioactive components were identified. The ethyl acetate extract of G. carinalis was the most effective on both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria tested, with higher antibacterial activity against Gram positive bacteria.

Valorization of Guabirobeira leaf extracts (Campomanesia xanthocarpa) through pressurized liquid extraction and aqueous infusion: Assessment of phytochemical composition, antibacterial, and antioxidant activities

AbstractBACKGROUNDThe leaves of guabirobeira contain important phenolic and flavonoid compounds, known for their antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antibacterial, and antinociceptive activities. The purpose of this work was to obtain extracts from guabirobeira leaves through aqueous infusion (AI) and pressurized liquid extraction with water (PLE‐W), ethanol (PLE‐E), and a combination of water:ethanol ratio 1:1, v/v (PLE‐W:E). Subsequently, to identify the chemical compounds using liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, and to study the antioxidant activity in rat brain cells, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) antibacterial activity against Gram‐negative and Gram‐ positive bacteria is also seen.RESULTSAccording to the findings, all four extracts contained a significant amount of phytochemical compounds. Among them, the PLE‐W:E extract showed a higher concentration of flavonoids, demonstrating significant antioxidant activity in in vitro assays of TBARS and ROS in rat brain cells. It also exhibited antibacterial activity against both bacteria (Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative).CONCLUSIONAs a result, it can be concluded that guabirobeira leaf extracts hold promise as a potential source of bioactive compounds. These extracts can be applied across various sectors, including cosmetics and skincare products, pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, natural preservatives, and functional materials. By exploring these potential applications, valuable contributions can be made to the field of sustainable chemistry and pharmacy, furthering the utilization of guabirobeira leaf extracts in diverse industries. This approach also aligns with the promotion of environmentally friendly and sustainable practices.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Synthesis, characterization and antimicrobial evaluation of schiff base derived from sulfonamides and vanillin

Background and objective: Sulfonamides are a type of antibiotic that are used to treat several infections caused by microorganisms. Sulfonamides are bacteriostatic, meaning they prevent bacterial growth. This study aimed to produce compounds with better antimicrobial activity. Methods: By condensation reaction, Schiff bases were synthesized from sulfonamides (sulfamethoxazole, sulfapyridine, sulfathiazole, sulfadiazine and sulfisoxazole) and vanillin to enhance antimicrobial activity of synthesized compounds. The agar dilution method was used to measuring the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) of synthesized compounds. Results: The synthesized compounds were characterized by FT-IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and tested for the antibacterial activity against gram positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus), gram negative bacteria (Escherichia coli) and antifungal activity against (Candida albicans). Ciprofloxacin and Fluconazole used as standard drugs for bacteria and fungi. Conclusion: The Schiff base was synthesized, characterized, and exhibited enhanced antimicrobial and antifungal activities.

Synthesis, biofilm formation inhibitory, and inflammation inhibitory activities of new coumarin derivatives.

Coumarins are heterocycles of great interest in the development of valuable active structures in chemistry and biological domains. The ability of coumarins to inhibit biofilm formation of Gram positive bacterium (Staphylococcus aureus), Gram negative bacterium (Escherichia coli) as well as the methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) has been previously described. In the present work, new hybrid coumarin-heterocycles have been synthesized via the reaction of coumarin-6-sulfonyl chloride and 6-aminocoumarin with different small heterocycle moieties. The biological efficacy of the new compounds was evaluated towards their ability to inhibit biofilm formation and their anti-inflammatory properties. The antimicrobial activities of the newly synthesized compounds were tested against Gram positive bacterium (S. aureus ATCC 6538), Gram negative bacterium (E. coli ATCC 25922), yeast (Candida albicans ATCC 10231) and the fungus (Aspergillus niger NRRL-A326). Compounds 4d, 4e, 4f, 6a and 9 showed significant MIC and MBC values against S. aureus, E. coli, C. albicans, and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) with especial incidence on compound 9 which surpasses all the other compounds giving MIC and MBC values of (4.88 and 9.76µg/mL for S. aureus), (78.13 and 312.5µg/mL for E. coli), (9.77 and 78.13µg/mL for C. albicans), and (39.06 and 76.7µg/mL for MRSA), respectively. With reference to the antibiofilm activity, compound 9 exhibited potent antibiofilm activity with IC50 of 60, 133.32, and 19.67µg/mL against S. aureus, E. coli, and MRSA, (respectively) considering the reference drug (neomycin). Out of all studied compounds, the anti-inflammatory results indicated that compound 4d effectively inhibited nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide-(LPS-) stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage cells, giving NO% inhibition of 70% compared to Sulindac (55.2%).

New Ciprofloxacin–Pyrazolopyrimidine Hybrids as Topoisomerase IV and Gyrase Inhibitors against MRSA AUMC 261

AbstractEleven novel ciprofloxacin–pyrazolopyrimidine hybrids 4 a–k were synthesized and structurally elucidated using NMR, elemental analysis, and mass spectrometry. The antibacterial screening showed that the newly synthesized compounds revealed a remarkable shifting of antibacterial activity from Gram–negative toward Gram–positive bacteria. Most of the synthesized hybrids displayed good to excellent activity against Staph aureus ATCC 6538 especially hybrids 4 a and 4 g which revealed MICs of 12.5 and 6.25 μg/ml, respectively, compared to the ciprofloxacin MIC, 25 μg/ml as a reference drug. In addition, both hybrids displayed potent activity toward MRSA AUMC 261 with MICs, 71 and 36 μg/ml respectively, compared to the ciprofloxacin MIC, 190 μg/ml as a reference drug. Additionally, hybrids, 4 a and 4 g exhibited effective inhibitory activity against DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV enzymes with IC50 values, 0.404, 1.626 μM and 3.647 and 3.791 μM, respectively, compared to ciprofloxacin IC50 values 0.661 and 8.159. A molecular modeling investigation showed a high fitting affinity of hybrids 4 a and 4 g toward gyrase and topoisomerase IV active sites compared to ciprofloxacin.

A Novel Approach for Synthesizing Ultra–Small Silver Nanoparticles Using Covalent Organic Frameworks as Template, Stabilizer and Reductant at Room Temperature

AbstractThe preparation of ultra–small silver nanoparticles (average diameter ≤10 nm) is a technical problem because of their aggregation tendency. Therefore, the preparation conditions are usually harsh and complex. It is widely recognized that covalent organic frameworks (COFs) represent a novel class of porous crystalline compounds with broad applications in various fields. In this work, an environmentally and economically friendly new method has been developed for synthesizing ultra–small silver nanoparticles by reducing silver ions in ethanol solution with a covalent organic framework (TPB–DMTP–COF) as a template and reductant at room temperature. Interestingly, the TPB–DMTP–COF not only serves as a template and reductant but also functions as a stabilizer. Moreover, the TPB–DMTP–COF can be utilized repeatedly as a reductant. The morphology and structure of the silver nanoparticles were examined using transmission electron microscopy and showed that they were spherical with an average particle size of approximately 7.5 nm. Compared with the previously reported silver nanoparticles, the silver nanoparticles synthesized by this new method are not coated with Surfactant, such as Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). As a result, they possess a larger exposed surface area, exhibit increased activity, and demonstrate excellent antimicrobial properties against both Gram–negative Escherichia coli and Gram–positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus.

Modification of sericin using cyanuric chloride and its application on the textile substrate to impart multifunctional properties

Sericin is a highly hydrophilic macromolecular protein comprising 18 amino acids. It is considered biocompatible, nontoxic, and has antibacterial and antioxidant properties. It is applied on fabric, however, either the fabric needs to be pretreated with electrolytes or catalyst are used thereby increasing the number of processing steps. This study achieved sericin with multifunctional properties through chemical modification using cyanuric chloride. Modified sericin was applied in the dyeing stage along with the dyes on various textile substrates like wool, silk, and polyester. The functional properties were characterized by Fourier transform infrared and in modified sericin new chlorine peak at 779 cm−1 was obtained, X-ray diffractogram shows increase in crystallinity after modification of sericin, SEM showed particles of sericin on all fabrics even after 5 washes. Fabrics were analysed for antimicrobial activity and showed antimicrobial properties against gram negative and positive bacteria. Fastness properties and ultra violet protection factor of the samples were also determined.

Medicinal Properties of Cobalt and Copper Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Limonia acidissima Leaf Extract

Aim: The present investigation was undertaken to synthesize Cobalt and copper nanoparticles (NPs) using Limonia acidissima L. leaf extract and to test their few medicinal properties like antimicrobial antioxidant and anti-diabetic activities. Methodology: Limonia acidissima plant leaves were collected from the vicinity of the College and the study was completed in 11 months. The hot aqueous leaf extract and soxhlet extract using ethyl acetate as solvent were prepared. Phytochemical analysis of the leaf extract showed the presence of Tannins, Flavonoids, Alkaloids and absence of Phenols. The leaf extract was then used to make Cobalt and copper nanoparticles (NPs) using Cobalt acetate and Copper sulphate respectively.  Results: The formation of NPs was checked by color change and confirmed with UV–visible spectrophotometry. The typical peaks of Co-NPs were detected in the range of maximum wavelength between 380-520 nm and that for Cu NPs was detected between 260-580 nm. The antimicrobial activity of the synthesized NPs of both metal oxides was then tested against Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria and also against two Candida sps. Cobalt NPs exhibited strong antimicrobial activity against all tested organisms but Copper NPs showed no antimicrobial activity. The both NPs were also tested for antioxidant and anti-diabetic properties. Comparatively the Copper NPs possessed higher antioxidant and anti-diabetic activity than the cobalt nanoparticles. Conclusion: Thus, this underutilized plant from India can be further exploited for more medicinal properties and bring it into pharmaceutical usage.

Silver‐coated copper nanocomposites synthesis using the essence of Foeniculum vulgare mill and estimation of its antibacterial and cytotoxicity effects

AbstractThe Cu3.96Ag0.04 nanoparticles were synthesized using the essence of Foeniculum vulgare Mill for the first time. The particles were fully analysed by conventional characterization methods such as powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS). The results have shown the crystal structure of silver copper particles and the crystallite size obtained by the Scherer equation was 23.2 nm. The TEM images interestingly displayed the formation of nanorods in the solid phase with nearly 5 nm widths and different lengths up to 100 nm. The hydrodynamic size is also compatible with the solid phase and crystallite sizes. Biologically, the particles were tested against infective gram negative and gram positive bacteria. The synthetic NPs show strong antibacterial properties against gram negative bacteria. Also, the synthesized nanoparticles had an inhibitory effect on the growth of cancer cells, which was dose‐ and time‐dependent.

Intrawound Vancomycin Powder in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Prospective Quality Control Study

BackgroundThe purpose of this retrospective analysis of a prospective quality control project was to determine whether the use of intrawound vancomycin powder (IVP) decreases the rate of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) within 90 days following primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). MethodsFrom October 2021 to September 2022, a prospective quality control project was undertaken in which 10 high-volume total hip arthroplasty surgeons alternated between using and not using IVP each month while keeping other perioperative protocols unchanged. A retrospective analysis of the project was performed to compare the group of patients who received IVP to the group of patients who did not. The primary outcome was a culture positive infection within 90 days following primary total hip arthroplasty. Secondary outcomes included gram-positive culture, overall reoperation rate, wound complications, readmission, and wound complications within 90 days post-operatively. A total of 1,193 primary THA patients were identified for analysis. There were 523 (43.8%) patients who received IVP and were included in the IVP group, while 670 (56.2%) did not and were included in the non-IVP group. Age, BMI, and sex were similar between the two groups (P > 0.25). ResultsThe IVP group had a higher rate of culture-positive joint infections (1.7 [0.8, 3.2] versus 0.3% [0.04, 1.1], P = 0.01) than the non-IVP group. All PJI’s were found to have gram positive bacteria in both groups. The IVP group had a higher overall reoperation rate than the non-IVP group (6.1 [4.2, 8.5] versus 2.4% [1.4, 3.9], P < 0.01). The IVP group had a higher reoperation rate for any wound complication compared to non-IVP patients (2.7 [1.5, 4.5] versus 0.7% [0.2, 1.7], P < 0.01). The overall readmission rate (6.1 [4.2, 8.5] versus 2.8% [1.7, 4.4], P < 0.01), as well as readmission for suspected infection (2.1 [1.1, 3.7] versus 0.6% [0.02, 1.5], P = 0.03), were higher in the IVP group. ConclusionThe use of IVP in primary THA was associated with a higher rate of PJI, overall reoperation, reoperation for wound complications, and readmission in a prospective quality control project. Until future prospective randomized studies determine the safety and efficacy of IVP in THA conclusively, we advocate against its utilization.

The Anti-Bacterial Activity of Titanium Nanofibers Prepared by Electrospinning A group of Gram-Negative and Gram-Positive Bacteria

PVP/TiO2 fibers were prepared using the electrospinning method, and the diameter of the fibers at a concentration of (1) mg/ml reached (42.96, 21.99, 21.72, 17.17, 14.16) nm, while at a concentration of (0.75), the diameter of the fibers was (27.15, 20.02, 45.82, 28.42). The diameter of the fibers was (20.89, 24.04, 24.40, 24.28) for concentration (0.5), and the shape of the fibers prepared for concentration (1) was straight and without beads compared to concentrations (0.75, 0.5) that were not straight. The inhibitory effectiveness of the compound prepared for electrospinning PVP/TiO2 was tested at concentrations Different types of (0.5, 0.75, 1) mg/ml and 6 grams of PVP were inhibited, and all types of Gram-negative and positive bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli) were inhibited, reaching the highest inhibition zone at a concentration of (1) mg/ml for Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, as the diameter of inhibition was (20). As for PVP, it had no inhibitory activity for the same types of bacteria mentioned above. The effectiveness of NF TiO2 was tested at different concentrations (0.5, 0.75, 1) mg/ml against the same types of bacteria mentioned above. The highest inhibition zone was reached at a concentration of (1) mg/ml for Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, as the diameter of inhibition was (21). Through the results, it was found that the inhibition of TiO2NF is better than TiO2 NP, and this is due to This increases the surface area of nanofibers compared to TiO2 NP, which leads to increased resistance to bacteria.

Antibiotic resistance before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic: a retrospective study.

Prevalence of antibiotic resistance (AR) during the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was higher than pre-pandemic times. This study determined the prevalence and patterns of AR among Gram-positive and negative bacteria before, during and after COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia and identified the associated factors. A retrospective cross-sectional study was employed to identify patients with positive AR bacteria between March 2019 and March 2022. The bacterial isolates and patients' data were identified from laboratory and medical records departments retrospectively. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the factors associated with AR and deaths. Multinominal logistic regression was applied to confirm the factors associated with AR classification. AR Gram-negative bacteria decreased during and after the pandemic. However, S. aureus showed a negligible increase in resistance rate after pandemic, while E. faecium, recorded a higher-than-average resistance rate during the pandemic. The prevalence of pan drug resistance (PDR) during the pandemic (85.7%) was higher than before (0%) and after (14.3%), p = 0.001. The length of stay and time were significant predictors for AR classification. The odds of multi drug resistance (MDR) development to PDR during the pandemic were 6 times higher than before and after (OR = 6.133, CI =, p = 0.020). Age, nationality, COVID-19 infection, smoking, liver disease, and type and number of bacteria were associated with death of patients with positive AR. Further studies are recommended to explore the prevalence of PDR and to justify the increased rates of E. faecium AR during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Formulation and Antimicrobial studies of Microencapsulated Musanga cecropioides Stem Bark Extract

Microencapsulation is the process of coating small droplets of liquid or solid materials with a continuous film of polymeric substances. The aim of the research was to formulate microparticles of Musanga cecropioides stem bark extract. The dried, powdered stem bark of Musanga cecropioides was extracted by maceration. The aqueous extract was microencapsulated using polymers such as alginate, pectin and hydroxylpropyl methylcellulose acetate succinate (HPMCAS) by counter-ion coacervation method using an electrostatic droplet generator. The formulated microcapsules were evaluated for flow properties, particle size, drug content, antimicrobial activity and in vitro release kinetics in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids. The microparticles were subjected to stability tests under different temperature (45°C, 25°C and 8°C) and relative humidity (100% RH, 78% RH and 0% RH) conditions for a period of three (3) months. The mean particle size of the microcapsules decreased with increasing applied voltage of the electrostatic generator. Particle size range for the batches of formulated microparticles was 68.20-223.84µm. The percentage entrapment efficiency of the batches of microparticles ranged from 80.26-86.58%. The microparticles lost a significant percent of its drug content after storage at different temperature and relative humidity conditions. The formulated microparticles and crude extract possess significant antibacterial action against both gram positive and negative bacteria as well as antifungal effect against C. albicans. Microparticles of M. cecropioides extract were formulated by counter-ion coacervation method using an electrostatic droplet generator which conferred advantages of sustained drug release, reduced frequency of dosing, masked unpalatable taste, improved stability and enhanced patient acceptance on the crude extract.

Antibacterial activities of honey bee against gram-positive bacteria isolated from urine

The medicinal benefits of honey have long been recorded in ancient days as a solution for various ailments and infections. This study x-rayed the effects of honey on common gram-positive bacteria isolated from urine. The study evaluated the in vitro susceptibility of two gram positive bacteria strains, isolated from urine of students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka Anambra state, Nigeria. The end point was achieved via macroscopic, microscopic methods and biochemical examinations which includes: gram staining, urease, catalase, coagulase testing to a hsoney sample. The evaluation of the antibacterial activity was ascertained by the agar diffusion well method. The results obtained in this study proved that the honey sample exhibited potent antibacterial activity against the tested strains, the zone of inhibition was at a mean value of 20.5 mm and 29.5 mm respectively at 100% concentration of honey. Staphylococcus epidermidis was found to be less susceptible than Enterococcus faecalis with a mean inhibition zones being 29.5 mm. This contribution has provided a broad overview of the antibacterial activity of honey and shown that honey bee has great potential for therapeutic use as an alternative therapy for infections caused by the isolates.