Prevalence Of Bacteria Research Articles

Thiosulfate oxidation and autotrophy potential by marine prevalent heterotrophic bacteria of genus Marinobacter

Thiosulfate oxidation and autotrophy potential by marine prevalent heterotrophic bacteria of genus Marinobacter

Phenotypic and genotypic assessment of fluoroquinolones and aminoglycosides resistances in Pseudomonas aeruginosa collected from Minia hospitals, Egypt during COVID-19 pandemic

BackgroundOne of the most prevalent bacteria that cause nosocomial infections is Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Fluoroquinolones (FQ) and aminoglycosides are vital antipseudomonal drugs, but resistance is increasingly prevalent. The study sought to investigate the diverse mechanisms underlying FQ and aminoglycoside resistance in various P. aeruginosa strains particularly during the COVID-19 crisis.MethodsFrom various clinical and environmental samples, 110 P. aeruginosa isolates were identified and their susceptibility to several antibiotic classes was evaluated. Molecular techniques were used to track target gene mutations, the presence of genes encoding for quinolone resistance, modifying enzymes for aminoglycosides and resistance methyltransferase (RMT). Efflux pump role was assessed phenotypically and genotypically. Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis was used to measure clonal diversity.ResultsQnrS was the most frequently encountered quinolone resistance gene (37.5%) followed by qnrA (31.2%) and qnrD (25%). Among aminoglycoside resistant isolates, 94.1% harbored modifying enzymes genes, while RMT genes were found in 55.9% of isolates. The aac(6')-Ib and rmtB were the most prevalent genes (79.4% and 32.3%, respectively). Most FQ resistant isolates overexpressed mexA (87.5%). RAPD fingerprinting showed 63.2% polymorphism.ConclusionsAminoglycosides and FQ resistance observed in this study was attributed to several mechanisms with the potential for cross-contamination existence so, strict infection control practices are crucial.

Antagonistic Effects and the Underlying Mechanisms of Bacillus velezensis and its Antibacterial Peptide LCI Against Aeromonas hydrophila Infection in Largemouth Bass.

Aeromonas hydrophila is one of the most prevalent pathogenic bacteria in largemouth bass. The use of antibiotics to inhibit A. hydrophila poses a significant threat to fish and environmental safety. Bacillus velezensis, a safe bacterium with probiotic and antibacterial characteristics, is an ideal candidate for antagonizing A. hydrophila. This study explored the antagonistic effects of B. velezensis FLU-1 on A. hydrophila in vivo and in vitro. In addition, we explored the antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) produced by strain FLU-1 and clarified the underlying antibacterial mechanisms. The results showed that strain FLU-1 could inhibit a variety of fish pathogens, including A. hydrophila. The challenge test showed that dietary supplementation with B. velezensis FLU-1 significantly improved the survival rate of largemouth bass and reduced the bacterial load in liver. Subsequently, the AMP LCI was isolated from B. velezensis FLU-1 and was found to be effective against A. hydrophila in vitro and in vivo. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that LCI downregulated the genes associated with flagellar assembly and peptidoglycan synthesis in A. hydrophila. Phenotypic test results showed that LCI disrupted the membrane integrity, markedly reduced the biofilm biomass and diminished the swimming motility of A. hydrophila. Furthermore, the results showed that LCI bound to the genomic DNA of A. hydrophila and destroyed the DNA structures. Overall, these findings elucidated the mechanism of action of LCI against A. hydrophila at the phenotypic and physiological levels. This study suggests that B. velezensis FLU-1 and its AMP LCI could serve as antibiotic alternatives for controlling pathogens in aquaculture.

Horizontal plasmid transfer promotes antibiotic resistance in selected bacteria in Chinese frog farms

The emergence and dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the ecosystem are global public health concerns. One Health emphasizes the interconnectivity between different habitats and seeks to optimize animal, human, and environmental health. However, information on the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) within complex microbiomes in natural habitats is scarce. We investigated the prevalence of antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB) and the spread of ARGs in intensive bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) farms in the Shantou area of China. Antibiotic susceptibilities of 361 strains, combined with microbiome analyses, revealed Escherichia coli, Edwardsiella tarda, Citrobacter and Klebsiella sp. as prevalent multidrug resistant bacteria on these farms. Whole genome sequencing of 95 ARB identified 250 large plasmids that harbored a wide range of ARGs. Plasmid sequences and sediment metagenomes revealed an abundance of tetA, sul1, and aph(3″)-Ib ARGs. Notably, antibiotic resistance (against 15 antibiotics) highly correlated with plasmid-borne rather than chromosome-borne ARGs. Based on sequence similarities, most plasmids (62%) fell into 32 distinct groups, indicating a potential for horizontal plasmid transfer (HPT) within the frog farm microbiome. HPT was confirmed in inter- and intra-species conjugation experiments. Furthermore, identical mobile ARGs, flanked by mobile genetic elements (MGEs), were found in different locations on the same plasmid, or on different plasmids residing in the same or different hosts. Our results suggest a synergy between MGEs and HPT to facilitate ARGs dissemination in frog farms. Mining public databases retrieved similar plasmids from different bacterial species found in other environmental niches globally. Our findings underscore the importance of HPT in mediating the spread of ARGs in frog farms and other microbiomes of the ecosystem.

A conserved inhibitory interdomain interaction regulates DNA-binding activities of hybrid two-component systems in Bacteroides.

Different dietary and host-derived complex carbohydrates shape the gut microbial community and impact human health. In Bacteroides, the prevalent gut bacteria genus, utilization of these diverse carbohydrates relies on different gene clusters that are under sophisticated control by various signaling systems, including the hybrid two-component systems (HTCSs). We have uncovered a highly conserved regulatory mechanism in which the output DNA-binding activity of HTCSs is suppressed by interdomain interactions in the absence of stimulating phosphorylation. A consensus amino acid motif is found to correlate with the inhibitory interaction surface while deviations from the consensus can lead to constitutive activation. Understanding of such conserved HTCS features will be important to make regulatory predictions for individual systems as well as to engineer novel systems with substitutions in the consensus to explore the glycan regulation landscape in Bacteroides.

Evaluating and Managing the Microbial Contamination of Eye Drops: A Two-Phase Hospital-Based Study.

The microbial contamination of eye drop tips and caps varies between 7.7% and 100%. In seeking patient protection and continuous improvement, the Pharmacy Department in the Sterile Ophthalmological and Oncological Preparations Unit at Cochin Hospital AP-HP, Paris, France, conducted a two-phase study to compare the antimicrobial efficiency and practical use of standard packaging and a marketed eye drop container incorporating a self-decontaminating antimicrobial green technology by Pylote SAS at the tip and cap sites. The first phase was conducted in situ to identify the microbial contaminants of eye drops used in the hospital and community settings. A total of 110 eye drops were included for testing. Staphylococcus species were the most prevalent bacteria. Candida parapsilosis was detected in only one residual content sample and, at the same time, on the cap and tip. The second phase was performed in vitro, according to JIS Z2801. Reductions above one log in Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa counts were noted in Pylote SAS eye drop packaging after 24 h of contact. The practical tests showed satisfactory results. Pylote SAS antimicrobial mineral oxide technology exhibited promising effects that combined effectiveness, safety, and sustainability to protect the patient by preventing infections due to the contamination of eye drop containers.

Microbiological Profile of Ear Infection in Patients with Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media

Ear infections occur in all age groups. Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) is the most common illness in ear, nose and throat (ENT) practice. It may even cause hearing impairment especially sensory – neural deafness if not treated properly and with caution. The aim from the present study is to assess the frequency of microbial agents in chronic suppurative otitis media and the antibiotic susceptibility patterns of isolates among patients. A total of 65 patients clinically diagnosed with chronic suppurative otitis media, the samples were collected using sterile swabs. All bacterial and fungal isolate were identified by conventional microbiological methods. Antibiotic susceptibility patterns of the bacterial isolate were determined by Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method. Out of total 65 samples 45 (69.2%) positive culture was Pseudomonas aeruginosa (28.8%) were the most prevalent bacteria isolated, followed by Staphylococcus aureus (22.2%) Proteus mirabilis (11.1%) Klebsiella (6.6%), E. coli (4.4%), Staphylococcus epidermidis (4.4%) and Streptococcus pyogenic (4.4%). Candida albicans (13.3%) was the most common fungus causing CSOM. The most effective antibiotic for treatment of bacterial chronic suppurative otitis media was ceftriaxone, meropenem and amikacin. It is important to know the major microbial etiologies of CSOM and their antibiotic susceptibility patterns, both for selection of the most appropriate treatment regimen and prevention of the emergence of resistant strains.

Multivariate Analysis and Correlation Study Shows the Impact of Anthropometric and Demographic Variables on Gut Microbiota in Obese Egyptian Children.

Deciphering the gut microbiome's link to obesity is crucial. Our study characterized the gut microbial community in Egyptian children and investigated the effect of covariates on the gut microbiome, body mass index (BMI), geographical location, gender, and age. We used 16S rRNA sequencing to characterize the gut microbial communities of 49 children. We then evaluated these communities for diversity, potential biomarkers, and functional capacity. Alpha diversity of the non-obese group was higher than that of the obese group (Chao1, P = 0.006 and observed species, P = 0.003). Beta diversity analysis revealed significant variations in the gut microbiome between the two geographical locations, Cairo and Ismailia (unweighted UniFrac, P = 0.03) and between obesity statuses, obese and non-obese (weighted UniFrac, P = 0.034; unweighted UniFrac, P = 0.015). We observed a significantly higher Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio in obese males than in non-obese males (P = 0.004). Interestingly, this difference was not seen in females (P = 0.77). Multivariable association with linear models (MaAsLin2) identified 8 microbial features associated with obesity, 12 associated with non-obesity, and found 29 and 13 features specific to Cairo and Ismailia patients, respectively. It has also shown one microbial feature associated with patients under five years old. MaAsLin2, however, failed to recognize any association between gender and the gut microbiome. Moreover, it could find the most predominant features in groups 2-9 but not in group 1. Another method used in the analysis is the Linear discriminant analysis Effect Size (LEfSe) approach, which effectively identified 19 biomarkers linked to obesity, 9 linked non-obesity, 20 linked to patients residing in Cairo, 14 linked to patients in Ismailia, one linked to males, and 12 linked to females. LEfSe could not, however, detect any prevalent bacteria among children younger or older than five. Future studies should take advantage of such correlations, specifically BMI, to determine the interventions needed for obesity management.

Antimicrobial resistance trends among Klebsiella pneumoniae associated with urinary tract infections in Crete, Greece, 2017-2022.

Klebsiella pneumoniae is one of the most prevalent bacteria causing urinary tract infections (UTIs). Its increasing resistance to a wide array of antibiotics limits available treatment options. This study investigated the characteristics and trends of antimicrobial resistance in K. pneumoniae isolated from UTIs in Crete, Greece, during 2017 and 2022. Among the 11,946 Enterobacteriaceae isolated from urine specimens, a total of 1,771 K. pneumoniae isolates were identified (14.8%), with an isolation frequency secondary to Escherichia coli (66.3%). K. pneumoniae isolates increased over the years, with a peak in the year 2022. Higher resistance rates were detected in ciprofloxacin (41%), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) (38.1%) and nitrofurantoin (33.9%). Resistance to ciprofloxacin, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, tigecycline, and TMP/SMX significantly increased from 33.7%, 24%, 6%, and 33.1%, respectively, over the years 2017-2019, to 47.8%, 34.2%, 14.3% and 42.8%, respectively, over the period 2020-2022. ESBL production and carbapenem resistance were decreased by 2.2% and 3.7%, respectively, over the two three-year periods (2017-2019 and 2020-2022). Among the 278 carbapenem-resistant K.pneumoniae (CRKP) isolates, 164 (59%), 66 (23.7%), 18 (6.5%) and 16 (5.8%) were positive for KPC, NDM, VIM and OXA-48 enzymes, respectively. Only 14 (5%) isolates harboured two carbapenemase genes, namely 10 (3.6%) both blaNDM and blaVIM, and 4 (1.4%) both blaKPC and blaNDM. Females, inpatients and the elderly were more frequently affected by CRKP. The frequency of multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) isolates were 32.6% and 7.7%, respectively. Continuous surveillance of local microbial prevalence and monitoring of antimicrobial resistance patterns provide critical information to guide the empiric therapy for UTIs and control the spread of MDR bacteria.

Impact of a legumes diet on the human gut microbiome articulated with fecal and plasma metabolomes: A pilot study

Background & AimsLegumes intake is known to be associated with several health benefits the origins of which is still a matter of debate. This paper addresses a pilot small cohort to probe for metabolic aspects of the interplay between legumes intake, human metabolism and gut microbiota. MethodsUntargeted nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) metabolomics of blood plasma and fecal extracts was carried out, in tandem with qPCR analysis of feces, to assess the impact of an 8-week pilot legumes diet intervention on the fecal and plasma metabolomes and gut microbiota of 19 subjects. ResultsWhile the high inter-individual variability hindered the detection of statistically significant changes in the gut microbiome, increased fecal glucose and decreased threonine levels were noted. Correlation analysis between the microbiome and fecal metabolome lead to putative hypotheses regarding the metabolic activities of prevalent bacteria groups (Clostridium leptum subgroup, Roseburia spp., and F. prausnitzii). These included elevated fecal glucose as a preferential energy source, the involvement of valerate/isovalerate and reduced protein degradation in gut microbiota. Plasma metabolomics advanced mannose and betaine as potential markers of legume intake and unveiled a decrease in formate and ketone bodies, the latter suggesting improved energy utilization through legume carbohydrates. Amino acid metabolism was also apparently affected, as suggested by lowered urea, histidine and threonine levels. ConclusionsDespite the high inter-individual gut microbiome variability characterizing the small cohort addressed, combination of microbiological measurements and untargeted metabolomics unveiled several metabolic effects putatively related to legumes intake. If confirmed in larger cohorts, our findings will support the inclusion of legumes in diets and contribute valuable new insight into the origins of associated health benefits.

Antibiotic Resistance Pattern of Bacteria Isolated from Clinical Specimens: A Hospital-Based Cross-sectional Study in Kathmandu, Nepal

Antibiotics are vital in combating infectious diseases, yet their increasing use fosters resistance. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is rising in Nepal due to factors such as indiscriminate, inappropriate, and inadequate antibiotic usage. This study aims to explore the association between demographic factors and the prevalence of specific bacterial strains within the surveyed population. Additionally, it seeks to determine the antibiotic resistance patterns of these bacteria. Antibiotic susceptibility or resistance data were retrieved from the Medical Records Department (MRD) of the Manmohan Memorial Medical College and Teaching Hospital (MMMCTH) in Kathmandu. Samples from patients with certain types of bacterial infections were included, with 56 from sputum reports, 46 from urine, and 8 from blood samples out of 110 retrieved. Analysis revealed that sputum samples were mostly from older males, while urine samples were mostly from females. Yet, gender did not significantly influence bacterial presence across sample types. Overall, Escherichia coli was the most prevalent bacterium (74%), followed by Salmonella typhi (25%), Staphylococcus aureus (25%), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (23%) isolated from different type of clinical samples. Altogether, 6-15 antibiotics were assessed for sensitivity, with 2–6 antibiotics showing sensitivity to blood bacteria, 1-6 antibiotics demonstrating sensitivity to sputum bacteria, and 3–8 antibiotics exhibiting sensitivity to urine bacteria. Many investigated antibiotics were resistant, only gentamicin exhibited sensitivity for all types of bacteria found in blood, sputum and urine. These findings underscore the importance of discerning bacterial resistance patterns for effective antimicrobial treatment selection.

Pre- and Post-debridement Wound Cultures in Gustilo Type III Open Tibial Fractures to Predict Wound Infection at a Tertiary Care Hospital.

Gustilo type III open tibial fractures are difficult injuries that carry a higher risk of infection and other consequences. Open-fracture wound microbiology is dynamic and responsible for change over time. Effective antibiotic treatment plans are required, as detrimental microorganisms are often linked to these types of lesions. The study aimed to determine whether pre- and post-debridement wound cultures could predict wound infection in Gustilo type III open tibial fractures. This prospective study was carried out at the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR) in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on 344 patients who presented to the emergency department with a Gustilo type III open tibial fracture within 24 hours of injury from June 2018 to October 2019. Three successive cultures were carried out: one in the emergency room (surveillance culture), the second at the emergency theater after debridement, and the third in the ward after one week (seven to 10 days). Statistical analyses of the results were conducted using Microsoft Excel (Microsoft Corp., Redmond, WA) and IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 27 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). The study included 344 patients with an average age of 37.15 years, with motor vehicle accidents being the primary cause (78.2%). Gustilo type IIIA fractures made up the majority (48.5%), followed by type IIIB fractures (44.8%). A significant reduction in contamination rates was observed from initial admission (48.8%) to post-debridement (36.6%) (p =.001). There was a significant positive correlation between pre-debridement cultures and wound infections (r =.311), as well as between post-debridement cultures and wound infections. The infection rate increased to 61.6% in ward samples, indicating a high rate of hospital-acquired infections. Pseudomonas and Klebsiella species were the most prevalent multidrug-resistant bacteria that caused these infections. The present study provides information on the relationship between contamination and infection. Gram-negative pathogens were dominant in this study, and the results of the antibiograms showed an alarming pattern of resistance. Nosocomial infection demands further urgent study.

Inter-facility characterization of bacteria in seafood processing plants: Exploring potential reservoirs of spoilage organisms and the resistome

A study was conducted in fish processing facilities to investigate the microbial composition, microbial metabolic potential, and distribution of antibiotic resistance genes. Whole metagenomic sequencing was used to analyze microbial communities from different processing rooms, operators and fish products. Taxonomic analyses identified the genera Pseudomonas and Psychrobacter as the most prevalent bacteria. A Principal Component Analysis revealed a distinct separation between fish product and environmental samples, as well as differences between fish product samples from companies processing either Gadidae or Salmonidae fish. Some particular bacterial genera and species were associated with specific processing rooms and operators. Metabolic analysis of metagenome assembled genomes demonstrated variations in microbiota metabolic profiles of microbiota across rooms and fish products. The study also examined the presence of antibiotic-resistance genes in fish processing environments, contributing to the understanding of microbial dynamics, metabolic potential, and implications for fish spoilage.

Antibacterial Susceptibility Pattern of Bacteria Isolated from Ready-to-Eat Lettuce and Gurasa Sold within Kaduna State University (Main Campus), Kaduna State

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt This study evaluates the antibacterial susceptibility of pathogens isolated from ready-to-eat lettuce and gurasa sold at Kaduna State University, identifying significant health risks associated with these popular foods. The research reveals a high prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus spp, Salmonella spp, and Klebsiella spp, with S. aureus and E. coli being the most common isolates. The findings highlight the urgent need for improved food safety measures and antibiotic resistance management to mitigate potential public health threats. Full Abstract The consumption of ready-to-eat lettuce and gurasa has gained acceptance due to its appealing taste and nutritional value. However, these foods can serve as a vehicle for transmission of pathogens. This study was carried out to assess the antibacterial susceptibility pattern of pathogens isolated from lettuce and gurasa sold at Kaduna State University. Samples were collected from five vendors of gurasa and lettuce. Standard microbiological methods were carried out using a pour plate and a modified Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method to determine the antibacterial susceptibility pattern. The isolates obtained were examined for morphological and biochemical characteristics. Escherichia coli, Bacillus spp, Salmonella spp, Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella spp. were isolated and identified. Staphylococcus aureus was the most prevalent bacterium in this study, having 27.7% in lettuce and 38.4% in gurasa, and Escherichia coli, having 16.6% in lettuce and 30.7% in gurasa. There was no significant difference (P ˃ 0.05) in the total colony counts of bacteria among the samples. Lettuce had the least bacteria count (1.48 x 106 CFU/g), while gurasa had the highest (1.55 x 106 CFU/g). Antimicrobial sensitivity test results showed that 10 S. aureus isolates were resistant to Rocephin (100%), 7 E. coli isolates were resistant to Septrin, Amoxicillin, and Augmentin (100%), 6 Klebsiella spp isolates were resistant to Amoxicillin and Augmentin(100%), 5 Salmonella spp isolates were resistant to Septrin, Amoxicillin and Augmentin (100%) and 3 Bacillus spp were resistant to Rocephin (100%). The high bacterial resistance to antibiotics is of great concern as infections with these organisms could be lethal.

Qualitative Microbiological Assessment of Ready-to-Eat Fruits Sold in Selected Areas of Kaduna Metropolis

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt This study assesses the microbiological quality of ready-to-eat pineapple and watermelon fruits sold in Kaduna Metropolis by systematically assessing bacterial and fungal contamination levels across multiple locations. The research identified a range of bacterial isolates, including Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus spp., Lactobacillus spp., and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as well as fungal isolates such as Aspergillus niger, Fusarium solani, Penicillium sp., and Mucor sp. The findings highlight significant variations in contamination levels, emphasizing the need for improved hygienic and safe packaging practices among vendors to mitigate public health risks. Full Abstract This study assessed the microbiological quality of ready-to-eat pineapple and watermelon fruits sold in selected areas of Kaduna Metropolis. A total of 30 samples (15 each) of ready-to-eat pineapple and watermelon fruits were purchased in a randomized manner from three distinct locations, namely Tudun Wada, Ungwan Muazu, and Ungwan Sarki in Kaduna Metropolis. The samples were carefully collected to prevent contaminations and were placed in sterile polythene bags. The preparation and microbiological analysis of all samples were conducted using established microbiological protocols. The pineapple sample obtained from the Tudun Wada region exhibited the highest bacterial mean count, measuring 8.76 x 104, while the watermelon sample from Ungwan Sarki exhibited the lowest bacterial mean count, measuring 5.72 x 104. The bacterial isolates identified in this study included Staphylococcus aureus, various species of Bacillus, Lactobacillus, and Pseudomonas, while the fungal isolates identified included Aspergillus niger, Fusarium solani, Penicillium sp., and Mucor sp. Staphylococcus aureus was the most prevalent bacterium in both samples, accounting for 8 occurrences (26.6%) in pineapple and 7 occurrences (23.3%) in watermelon. Bacillus species were also present, with 4 instances (13.3%) in pineapple and 5 instances (16.6%) in watermelon. Lactobacillus was found in 2 pineapple samples (6.6% of total) and 3 watermelon samples (10% of total). Pseudomonas aeruginosa was minimally detected in only 1 pineapple sample (3.3%). No detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was observed in watermelon. These findings suggest that fresh-cut fruits (enclosed in plastic containers or nylon) sold in T/wada, U/muazu, and U/sarki areas of Kaduna metropolis exhibit substandard microbiological quality, posing potential risks to public health. Therefore, it is crucial to improve the hygienic and safe packaging practices employed by these vendors to mitigate possible adverse health consequences.

The polymicrobial nature of the oral cavity and claws of cats diagnosed by mass spectrometry and next-generation sequencing

Close contact between cats and humans increases the risk of transmission of zoonotic pathogens, through bites and scratches due to the complexity of microorganisms in the oral and nail microbiotas of felines. This study investigated the presence of bacteria and fungi in the oral cavity and claws of 100 apparently healthy cats using conventional and selective microbiological culture media, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) and mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Furthermore, antimicrobial susceptibility testing of bacteria isolates was performed by disc diffusion method. In total, 671 bacteria and 33 yeasts were identified by MALDI-TOF MS. Neisseria animaloris (10.8 %), Staphylococcus felis (8.5 %), and Pasteurella multocida (7 %) were the most prevalent bacteria in oral cavity samples (n = 343), while the most common yeast (n = 19) was Candida albicans (68.4 %). Staphylococcus pettenkoferi (13.4 %), Staphylococcus felis (6.4 %), and Staphylococcus simulans (5.8 %) were the prevalent bacteria identified in the claw samples (n = 328), while Rhodotorula mucilaginosa (57.2 %) was the most common yeast (n = 14). NGS predominantly identified the genera Moraxella, Neisseria, Pasteurella, and Fusobacterium in oral cavity samples, whereas enterobacteria and staphylococci were prevalent in nail bed samples. In addition, the genera Capnocytophaga and Bartonella were identified, which have been described in serious human infections secondary to feline aggressions. Levofloxacin, marbofloxacin, and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid were the most effective drugs against the main groups of bacteria identified. Multidrug resistance was observed in 17 % of the bacterial isolates. Furthermore, three staphylococci harboring the methicillin resistance gene mecA were identified. We highlight the complexity of microorganisms inhabiting the oral/claw microbiotas of cats, the high resistance rate of the isolates to conventional antimicrobial agents, and the zoonotic risk of aggressions caused by bites and scratches from domestic cats.

Earthworms and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) cooperate to promote the biodegradation of tetracycline residues in livestock manure

Tetracycline is an antibiotic with extensive veterinary use in the livestock industry. However, their widespread application poses risks to soil health as residue in livestock feces, and their removal is crucial for sustainable soil-ecosystem development. Physical and chemical approaches to extract tetracycline may have adverse effects on soil ecosystems, but no studies have thus far examined the potential for biological methods, such as collective degradation action of soil fauna. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the synergistic effects of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and earthworms (Eisenia fetida) on biodegradation of tetracycline residues in sheep manure. We assessed earthworm biomass, tetracycline residue, and bacterial communities in both earthworm intestines and vermicompost. Earthworm biomass and tetracycline degradation efficiency increased significantly with LAB addition, with a degradation rate of up to 80.16%. This increase may be attributable to LAB acting as electron donors to spur tetracycline degradation. Additionally, we noted that tetracycline presence significantly influenced bacterial communities in earthworm intestines and vermicompost, elevating the abundance of potential pathogenic bacteria (e.g., Flavobacterium, Gammaproteobacteria, and Enterobacteriaceae). This finding suggests that heightened environmental stress from antibiotics could actually facilitate the growth of less prevalent bacteria, including potential pathogens. In conclusion, our study provides evidence supporting the effectiveness of LAB and earthworms in degrading tetracycline residues. In particular, LAB appears to mitigate stress from tetracycline exposure in earthworms, thus increasing their vermicomposting efficacy. Our work has important implications for soil management, with the potential to enhance pollution clean-up rates while minimizing negative side-effects to soil microbial communities.

Metagenomic analysis of bacterial communities in heavy metal leachate-contaminated soils at Jalan Lipis Sanitary Landfill, Pahang, Malaysia

A variety of bacterial communities can be found in heavy metal leachate-contaminated soil. These bacteria might have molecular defenses that allow them to endure a high heavy metal concentration. However, there aren't enough datasets on bacterial populations to be exploited for bioremediation, especially the biotreatment of leachate contaminated with heavy metals. This research examined the diversity of the bacterial population in heavy metal leachate-contaminated soil from the Jalan Lipis Sanitary Landfill in Pahang, Malaysia. The soil samples were taken from three (3) different locations. pH analysis showed that the heavy metal leachate-contaminated soil possesses alkaline pH. ICPMS analysis showed high concentration of nickel (112.96 mg/kg) followed by manganase (89.83 mg/kg), arsenic (43.84 mg/kg), and lead (3.62 mg/kg). The three most prevalent bacteria in the heavy metal leachate-contaminated soil from the site were Pseudomonas C (Proteobacteria), Flavobacterium (Bacteroidota), and Proteiniclasticum (Firmicutes), according to metagenomic sequencing of the 16 s rRNA gene. The alpha and beta bacterial diversity analysis indicate that each location with different heavy metal concentration differs significantly on its bacterial diversity providing a valuable information to be applied in heavy metal bioremediation exclusively from landfill leachate.

Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG improves cognitive impairments in mice with sepsis.

Survivors of sepsis may encounter cognitive impairment following their recovery from critical condition. At present, there is no standardized treatment for addressing sepsis-associated encephalopathy. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is a prevalent bacterium found in the gut microbiota and is an active component of probiotic supplements. LGG has demonstrated to be associated with cognitive improvement. This study explored whether LGG administration prior to and following induced sepsis could ameliorate cognitive deficits, and explored potential mechanisms. Female C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into three groups: sham surgery, cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), and CLP+LGG. Cognitive behavior was assessed longitudinally at 7-9d, 14-16d, and 21-23d after surgery using an open field test and novel object recognition test. The impact of LGG treatment on pathological changes, the expression level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and the phosphorylation level of the TrkB receptor (p-TrkB) in the hippocampus of mice at two weeks post-CLP (16d) were evaluated using histological, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and western blot analyses. The CLP surgery induced and sustained cognitive impairment in mice with sepsis for a minimum of three weeks following the surgery. Compared to mice subjected to CLP alone, the administration of LGG improved the survival of mice with sepsis and notably enhanced their cognitive functioning. Moreover, LGG supplementation significantly alleviated the decrease in hippocampal BDNF expression and p-TrkB phosphorylation levels caused by sepsis, preserving neuronal survival and mitigating the pathological changes within the hippocampus of mice with sepsis. LGG supplementation mitigates sepsis-related cognitive impairment in mice and preserves BDNF expression and p-TrkB levels in the hippocampus.

Determination of prevalence of subclinical mastitis, characterization of intra-mammary infection-causing bacteria, and antibiotic susceptibility in dairy camels in Jigjiga City, Somali region, Ethiopia

BackgroundSubclinical mastitis in camels, an inflammation of the udder without visible signs, can reduce milk quality and raise bacteria levels. Regular monitoring of camel milk is crucial for consumer safety.MethodsA cross sectional study was conducted in Jigjiga city, Ethiopia to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of subclinical mastitis in she-camels. The study included 244 lactating she-camels from three privately-owned camel dairy farms, and a questionnaire survey was conducted with 60 camel owners.ResultsThe overall prevalence of subclinical mastitis in she-camels was 10.6% (26/244), with no significant difference among the studied dairy farms. Risk factors that influenced the result of California Mastitis Test (CMT) included age and udder and leg hygiene. The study revealed that S. aureus was the most prevalent bacterium among the isolated bacteria, with a prevalence rate of 34.5%. This was followed by S. agalactiae, S. dysgalactiae, and Pasteurella multocida, with prevalence rates of 29.8, 19.4, and 16.2%, respectively. Among the isolated bacteria, 84.5% were sensitive to Erythromycin, 60% to Streptomycin, 44.7% to Oxytetracycline, and 36.7% to Tetracycline. Interviews with camel owners revealed that 66.7% used mixed herd grazing methods and reported feed shortage. Treatment practices for sick camels included modern veterinary drugs, traditional medicines, or a combination of both. The owners of camel dairy farms did not maintain proper hygiene practices during milking, such as not using soap when washing hands.ConclusionAddressing camel mastitis necessitates access to alternative drugs, comprehensive herder training, and enhanced management practices.