Micrococcus Species Research Articles

Isolation of Dental Caries Bacteria from Dental Plaque

Background : Dental caries stands out as a highly prevalent and preventable condition, identified as the leading contributor to oral discomfort and tooth loss. This condition represents a significant public health challenge that obstructs the attainment and preservation of oral health across all age demographics. The WHO has indicated that the global issue of oral disease continues to exist, even with significant advancements in the oral health of populations in various countries. Aim of study : Isolation of Dental Caries Bacteria from Dental Plaque and detection Pattern of resistance to common antibiotics in dental clinics. Methodology : Specimens collection include 75 clinical swabs (45 Male and 25 Female) isolated from dental caries patients who were admitted to Al-Kafeel teaching clinic and outpatient from dentist clinic in AL-Najaf City between November 2022 to January 2023 with age group between 30-70 years. All the specimens were labeled and transported Immediately by sterile transport swabs to the laboratory for Culture and Identification. For each patient, medical records were reviewed, which including name, gender, age, address, hospitalization, and antibiotic receiving. and immediately transport to the old . Results : The study comprised of 75 patients with dental caries , 45 patients were male while 30 patients were female , The swabs taken from dental clinics have been showed that 64 (85.3%) of specimens were gram positive bacteria and only 11 specimens (14.7%) were gram negative bacteria. The result showed that about 64 specimens from totally 75 were gram positive and the most common species were: Streptococcus mutans 20 (26.66%) , Staphylococcus aureus 15 (20%), Lactobacilli 10 (13.33%) , Staphylococcus species 8 (10.66%) , Streptococcus species 5 (6.66%) , Enterococcus faecalis 4(5.33%) , Bacillus species 2 (2.66%) and Micrococcus species 2 (2.66%). Gram negative bacteria that isolated from dental caries were only 11 . The bacterial species were : E. coli 3 (4%), K. pneumonia 2 (2.66%) , P. aeruginosa 2 (2.66%), Moraxella 1 (1.33%) and Acinetobacter baumannii 1 (1.33%). Tow specimens were unknown (2.66%) , Vitek 2 system had no results.

Unexpected positive cultures in aseptic revision hip and knee arthroplasty.

The outcomes of patients with unexpected positive cultures (UPCs) during revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remain unknown. The objectives of this study were to establish the prevalence and infection-free implant survival in UPCs during presumed aseptic single-stage revision THA and TKA at mid-term follow-up. This study included 297 patients undergoing presumed aseptic single-stage revision THA or TKA at a single treatment centre. All patients with at least three UPCs obtained during revision surgery were treated with minimum three months of oral antibiotics following revision surgery. The prevalence of UPCs and causative microorganisms, the recurrence of periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs), and the infection-free implant survival were established at minimum five years' follow-up (5.1 to 12.3). Of the 297 patients undergoing aseptic revisions, 37 (12.5%) had at least three UPCs obtained during surgery. The UPC cohort included 23 males (62.2%) and 14 females (37.8%), with a mean age of 71.2 years (47 to 82). Comorbidities included smoking (56.8%), hypertension (48.6%), diabetes mellitus (27.0%), and chronic renal impairment (13.5%). The causative microorganisms included Staphylococcus epidermidis (49.6%), Bacillus species (18.9%), Micrococcus species (16.2%), and Cutibacterium acnes (16.2%). None of the study patients with UPCs developed further PJIs or required further surgical intervention during follow-up. The prevalence of UPCs during presumed aseptic revision THA and TKA was 12.5%. The most common causative microorganisms were of low virulence, and included S. epidermidis, Bacillus species, Micrococcus species, and C. acnes. Microorganism-specific antibiotic treatment for minimum three months' duration of UPCs in presumed aseptic revision arthroplasty was associated with excellent infection-free implant survival at mid-term follow-up.

Heterotrophic bacteria isolated from a chloraminated system accelerate chloramine decay

This work comprehensively demonstrates the ability of heterotrophic bacteria, isolated from a chloraminated system, to decay chloramine. This study non-selectively isolated 62 cultures of heterotrophic bacteria from a water sample (0.002 mg-N/L nitrite and 1.42 mg/L total chlorine) collected from a laboratory-scale reactor system; most of the isolates (93.3%) were Mycobacterium sp. Three species of Mycobacterium and one species of Micrococcus were inoculated to a basal inorganic medium with initial concentrations of acetate (from 0 to 24 mg-C/L) and 1.5 mg/L chloramine. Bacterial growth coincided with declines in the concentrations of chloramine, acetate, and ammonium. Detailed experiments with one of the Mycobacterium sp. isolates suggest that the common mechanism of chloramine loss is auto-decomposition likely mediated by chloramine-decaying proteins. The ability of the isolates to grow and decay chloramine underscores the important role of heterotrophic bacteria in the stability of chloramine in water-distribution systems. Existing strategies based on controlling nitrification should be augmented to include minimizing heterotrophic bacteria.

STUDY ON ANATOMICAL CHARATERIZATION OF MICROCOCCUS PANICULATA L

Micrococcus paniculata L., one of the important medicinal plants, commonly known as Cherikkotta, Kotta, Kottakka or Pottanga, of plant family Tiliaceae and are generally seen at the steep forested regions and also in scared grooves. The plant parts were utilized for the treatment of variety of diseases or conditions, including dysmenorrhea, paratyphoid, bone fractures, jaundice, kidney stones, dyspepsia, heat stroke, cold, fever, diarrhoea, hepatitis B, ingestion, and anthelmintic medication. It is widely distributed along the Western Ghats of India. Eventually, complete identification and authentication of plant material is needed to avoid confusion of species by non-taxonomist. Anatomical study supplement classical methods of identification. Specimen were examined by morphological and anatomical characteristics. Leaf and petiole anatomical profiling of this species Micrococcus paniculata occurring in of Kerala was investigated in this study. The study aims to search for the stable features marking out Micrococcus species. The species were distinguished based on the anatomical difference in the vascular bundles in midrib and petiole, palisade layer and type of stomata. The anatomical features of stem might be very useful for the identification of this plant species. Through this anatomical study, we concluded that this species has some unique features to its environmental habitat.

Prevalence and Concentration of Airborne Microorganisms Isolated from Domestic Toilets in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Introduction: Microorganisms are ubiquitous in nature and transient airborne microorganisms have been shown to constitute major health hazards.
 Aim: This study was carried out to assess the microbial air quality in ten (10) domestic toilets located in mile-3, Alakahia, Choba, Ada-George and Rumuokwuta, Port Harcourt, Rivers state, Nigeria.
 Methodology: Microbial air quality was sampled using sedimentation techniques. Freshly prepared Nutrient Agar, MacConkey and Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) plates were placed one meter above the floor of the toilets for 1 hours at different sections of each toilet exposed to an open air. The agar plates were closed and transported to the Laboratory were incubation took place at 37°C for 24 hours and 25°C for 3-5 days for growth of bacteria and fungi respectively. Isolates were characterized and identified by standard microbiological methods.
 Results: The bacteria isolated were Staphylococcus species 22(22.45%), Bacillus species 20 (20.41%), Enterococcus species 20(20.41%), Escherichia coli 16(16.32%), Micrococcus species 15 (15.31%), Klebsiella species 3(3.06%), and Proteus species 2(2.04%) while Aspergillus species 14(27.45%), Penicillium species 16(23.53%), Fusarium species 10(19.60%), Mucor species 8(15.69%), and Rhizopus species 7(13.73%) were the fungi identified. The highest bacteria colony count before and after flushing were 52.380×103CFU/m3/hr & 67.261× 103CFU/m3/ hrrespectively while the lowest bacteria counts observed before and after flushing 19.047× 103CFU/m3/hr & 39.286×103CFU/m3/hr while the highest and lowest fungal count before and after flushing were 10.119×103CFU/m3/hr & 13.690×103CFU/m3/hr and 5.952×103CFU/m3/hr & 5.953×103CFU/m3/hr respectively.
 Conclusion: This study shows that considerable numbers of both pathogenic bacteria and fungi particles were released into the air in higher quantity after flushing domestic toilets when compared to air quality before flushing. These organisms have been implicated in major and minor infectious diseases. Inhalation or contact may easily lead to infection especially in immunocompromised individuals and the older adults. To maintain the health of users, it is necessary to carefully manage the environmental factors that promote the growth and multiplication of microorganisms in domestic toilet environment.

Kytococcus schroeteri

Abstract Kytococcus schroeteri is a gram-positive coccus naturally found as part of the normal skin flora. Infection caused by this organism is not common but seems to be limited to patients with implanted prostheses. To date, there have been only 22 reported cases of K. schroeteri causing disease, of which 9 are cases of prosthetic valve endocarditis. In this review, we report on 3 further cases of K. schroeteri prosthetic valve endocarditis and review the previously reported cases. The common theme is one of delayed diagnosis, with the organism not initially identified, often after initially being misdiagnosed as a Micrococcus species. Prosthetic valve endocarditis caused by K. schroeteri is commonly associated with large vegetations leading to patients often requiring surgical intervention after embolic events or to prevent them. There is currently no guidance in relation to the antimicrobial treatment, but a combination of vancomycin with rifampicin and gentamicin for 6 weeks has been noted to be efficacious.

Micrococcus lacusdianchii sp. nov., an attached bacterium inhibited by metabolites from its symbiotic algae.

A novel actinobacterial strain, designated as JXJ CY 30 T, was isolated from the phycosphere of Microcystis aeruginosa FACHB-905 (Maf) collected from Lake Dianchi, China. The strain was a Gram-stain-positive, aerobic and coccus-shaped actinobacterium. It had alanine, glutamic acid, aspartic acid, and lysine in the peptidoglycan, and mannose, ribose and arabinose in its cell wall sugars, anteiso-C15:0 and iso-C15:0 as the main cellular fatty acids, MK-7 and MK-8 as the major respiratory quinones, and phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, glycolipid, and an unidentified phospholipid as the polar lipids. The DNA G + C content was 73.08%. Its 16 S rRNA gene sequence shared 99.14%, and 98.75% similarities with Micrococcus flavus DSM 19079 T and M. porci KD337-16T, respectively, and ≤98.41% similarities with other type strains of the genus Micrococcus. It formed independent clade with M. flavus DSM 19079 T on the phylogenetic trees. The digital DNA-DNA hybridization and average nucleotide identity values between strain JXJ CY 30 T and M. flavus DSM 19079 T and M. porci KD337-16T were 48.0% and 92.1%, 25.5% and 83.2%, respectively. These data above indicated that strain JXJ CY 30 T represented a new species of the genus Micrococcus, and the species epithet is proposed as Micrococcus lacusdianchii sp. nov. (type strain JXJ CY 30 T = KCTC 49378 T = CGMCC 1.17508 T). Strain JXJ CY 30 T can potentially provide Maf with various nutrients such as available phosphorus and nitrogen, plant hormones, various vitamins and carotenoids for growth, while it was inhibited by metabolites from its symbiotic algae Maf.

Isolation and Antibiogram Pattern of Bacteria Isolated from Automated Teller Machine (ATM) at Abuja Campus, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria

The growing use of automated teller machines (ATMs) has sparked worries about possible microbial contamination on ATM keypads, which might be harmful to the general public's health. This study examines the antibiotic resistance characteristics of the bacterial infections linked to ATM keypads at the University of Port Harcourt's Abuja campus in Nigeria. Tests for antimicrobial susceptibility, bacterial isolation, and identification were carried out on swab samples obtained from different bank ATMs. Common contaminants found in the research were Staphylococcus, Bacillus, Enterobacter, Aerobacter, Photohabdus, and Micrococcus species. With a 40% prevalence, Bacillus species predominated, followed by Staphylococcus species at 30%. The range of total heterotrophic counts was 3.38–4.69 Log Cfu/ml. The necessity for efficient biocides was highlighted by the antimicrobial susceptibility tests, which showed different resistance patterns in Gram-positive and Gram-negative isolates. This study demonstrates the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and emphasizes the importance of microbial contamination on ATM keypads for public health. Advocating for the slowing of the spread of resistant microbes, research promoting frequent surveillance, hygiene education, and the creation of antimicrobial measures is endorsed. All things considered, insightful information on the microbial environment of often-touched surfaces was provided by the results, emphasizing the advocacy for taking preventative measures to reduce the health hazards related to ATMs.

Isolation and identification of bacteria from engine oil polluted soil from mechanic workshops in Okija Town

This research was conducted for the isolation and identification of bacteria from engine oil polluted soil from mechanic workshops in Okija village. Two different mechanic workshops within Okija were selected and soil samples were collected differently based on top soil and depth soil from each site. Then 0.1ml was taken from the dilution 10-3 to 10-6 diluents and inoculated into a Bushnell Haas agar (containing: (g/l) 0.2, MgSO4; 0.02, CaCl2; 1.0, KH2PO4; 1.0, K2HPO4; 1.0, NH4NO3; 0.05, FeCl3; 20.0, Agar and 5ml of fresh engine oil as sole carbon source) and was incubated at 370C for 5 -7 days. Spread plate method involving the use of serial dilutions was employed for the isolation of bacteria. The culture was examined for bacterial growth and subsequently cultured the specific bacteria growth on nutrient agar plates with 2ml of fresh engine oil for 24 hours to determine engine oil degradability by the isolated bacteria. The numbers of viable bacterial count were 20, 26, 18 and 28 as expressed in colony forming units per milliliter (cfu/ml). The bacterial count was furthermore expressed in percentage per the dilution factor 10-3; S1Top, S1Depth, S2Top and S2Depth were 21.74%, 28.26%, 19.56% and 30.44% respectively. The bacteria species isolated were Serratia, Micrococcus, Pseudomonas and Bacillus species. Bacillus was the most dominant. There was presence and activity of bacteria species in the depth soil than top soil. The bacterial species isolated were able to degrade fresh engine oil especially Bacillus species. From, the data obtained it was found that depth soil has more presence and activity of bacterial species because there is less disturbance in the depth soil than top soil. Bacillus species and Pseudomonas species are most adapted to conditions present in soils polluted with used engine oil and hence could be exploited in bioremediation activities in cases of accidental oil spillage.

Prevalence, Associated Risk Factors and Major Bacterial Pathogens causing Bovine Mastitis on Selected Dairy Farms in and around Harar, Ethiopia

Aim Mastitis, an inflammation of the mammary gland, is a complex and costly disease in dairy herds. The main aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of mastitis and associated risk factors for bacterial pathogens in lactating dairy cows. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out. The study was conducted in Harar town and its district from November 2016 to April 2017. A total of 384 (264 crossbreds and 120 Holstein Frisian) milking cows were tested using the California mastitis test (CMT), direct diagnosis of obverse clinical mastitis, and bacterial culture in Harar City and its district. Results The result of the study indicated the prevalence of mastitis at the cow level was 58.60% (225/384), out of which 10.7% (41/384) and 47.9% (184/384) were clinical and subclinical, respectively. The quarter-level prevalence was 34.1% (513/1536); from this, the clinical and subclinical forms were 8.7% (131/1536) and 25.4% (382/1536), respectively, while 2% (31/1536) had blind teats. From 341 culture-positive samples, the following bacteria were isolated: Out of the total, Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CNS) (28.5%) was the most prevalent isolate, followed by Streptococcus species (27.5%), Staphylococcus aureus (21.4%), Escherichia coli species (14.4%), Micrococcus species (5.3%) and Corynebacterium species (2.9%). Age, parity, breed, production, and hygiene were significant associated risk factors, whereas management risk factors such as house types, milking systems, farming systems, and treatment history do not have a significant association with the prevalence of mastitis in the study area at this level of significance. Conclusion Based on the findings of this study, a thorough screening of high-producing and aged cows should be needed; optimum space should be required for those cows kept in intensive and closed houses to reduce the risk of contagious mastitis; attention should be paid to the informal use of drugs; and further research should be needed to view other risk factors for mastitis

The Impact of Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) Fumigation on Bacterial Levels in Dental Office Environments: A Randomized Clinical Trial Investigation.

Fumigation with hydrogen peroxide has proven to be a highly effective approach to maintaining biological safety within dental offices. The main purpose of this research was to investigate the efficacy of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) fumigation in reducing bacterial levels in dental office environments. The study involved 30 participants diagnosed with moderate caries decay (ICDAS 3 and 4) in their mandibular molars. Sixty Petri dishes (two per patient) with Columbia Agar and 5% Sheep Blood were opened at the beginning of the caries treatment. After the completion of caries treatment and tooth restoration, 30 plates (G1 group) were closed. Following this, a 20 min fumigation procedure with 6% hydrogen peroxide biosanitizer using a compressed air device was conducted. After the fumigation, the remaining plates were closed (G2 group). The total number of bacteria CFUs (colony-forming units) in the dental office air was determined using the Koch sedimentation method. The total bacterial colony (TBC) level, measured in cfu/m3, demonstrated a significant decrease in the number of bacteria following room environment fumigation (163.1 ± 145.7; G2 group) compared to non-fumigated samples (817.2 ± 208.2; G1 group) (p < 0.001). The predominant bacteria observed in the microbiological plates before fumigation were Micrococcus and Bacillus species, found in 80% (24/30) and 60% (18/30) of the plates, respectively. Application of H2O2 room fumigation resulted in a significant reduction in bacterial numbers: 79.2% (5/30) for Micrococcus species (p < 0.001), 83.3% (3/30) for Bacillus species (p < 0.001), and 100% (0/30) for Staphylococcus arlettae (p < 0.05). Fumigation with 6% H2O2 is an effective method for reducing bacterial counts in a dental office environment.

Bacterial Density in Soil Samples Collected from Hospital Wastes Dumping Site at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Medical Centre, Uli, Anambra State, Nigeria.

The soil quality is characterized by adequate nutrients as a result of abundant nutrients cycling bacteria. Most soil in Nigeria has been subjected to different kinds of pollutants resulting from anthropogenic activities which have become a major threatening factor to the quality of soil. This study was carried out to evaluate bacterial density in soil samples collected from hospital wastes dumping site at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Medical Centre, Uli, Anambra State. A total of 30 composite soil samples were aseptically collected from the site using a sterile soil auger. The samples were analyzed for total heterotrophic bacterial count (THBC) and phosphate solubilizing bacterial count (PSBC) using standard plate technique. The predominant bacterial isolates that aided nutrients cycling were appropriately characterized, and their densities in both impacted and non-impacted soil samples were enumerated. Also, the bacterial isolates were characterized based on morphology, microscopy, and biochemical characteristics. There was an increase in the THBC and PSBC in the impacted soil, and Gram negative rods such as Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, and Micrococcus species (Gram positive) were the bacterial isolates. The study has revealed that wastes generated from hospital enhances microbial proliferation in the soil, which invariably increases soil fertility. Keywords: Bacterial Density, Soil Samples, Hospital Wastes and Dumping Site

1312. Incidence and Microbiology of Prosthetic Joint Infection According to Time Following Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Cohort Study Among US Veterans

Abstract Background Despite the frequency of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and clinical impact of prosthetic joint infections (PJIs), the incidence and microbiology of these infections in the United States remains unclear. Our objective was to determine the incidence of PJI occurring ≤ 3 months (early), between &amp;gt; 3 and ≤ 12 months (delayed), and &amp;gt; 12 months (late) after primary TKA and to identify the organisms isolated from microbiologic cultures during each of these periods. Methods We conducted a retrospective study of patients in the Veterans Aging Cohort Study- National Cohort who underwent elective primary TKA in the VA between October 1, 1999 to September 30, 2019. The primary outcome was incident hospitalization with PJI. We estimated incidence rates (events/10,000 person-months) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of early, delayed, and late PJI. Poisson regression was used to estimate the incidence rate ratio (IRR) with 95% CI of early and delayed PJI compared to late PJI. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to demonstrate the cumulative incidence of PJI at 3, 12 and 24 months. We measured the frequency of Gram-positive, Gram-negative, fungal, polymicrobial, and culture-negative PJI occurring within each of the three time periods and compared frequencies of interest using Pearson’s chi-squared tests. Results Among 82,401 VHA patients who underwent primary TKA, a total of 1,605 incident PJIs (1.9%) were identified. The incidence rate of PJI was higher in the first 12 months after primary TKA surgery, with an IRR of 20.4 (95% CI, 18.2-222.8) for early and 4.2 (95% CI, 3.7-4.8) for delayed periods when compared to late. The cumulative incidence of PJI at 3 months was 0.77% (95% CI, 0.71-0.83%), at 12 months was 1.25% (95% CI 1.17-1.33%), and at 24 months was 1.56% (95% CI 1.48-1.65%) (Figure 1). Staphylococcus aureus was the most common organism isolated (33.2%) across the periods. Gram-negative bacteria were isolated in 11.1% of all infections, and 15.1% of early PJIs (Table 1). Kaplan Meier failure curves for prosthetic joint infection for the overall study period (upper panel) as well as the first 24 months (lower panel) following primary total knee arthroplasty. Abbreviations: PJI, prosthetic joint infection; CI, confidence interval.Table 1.Organisms isolated from synovial fluid or operative tissue cultures of early, delayed and late prosthetic joint infections after primary total knee arthroplasty. aAmong the 1,605 PJIs in the Overall Cohort, the microbiology data for 103 were missing and 1,502 PJIs with available microbiology data were included in these results. bPolymicrobial defined by multiple genera of organisms identified cIncludes: Micrococcus species, diphtheroids dIncludes: Salmonella, Pasteurella, Citrobacter, Morganella, Acinetobacter, Pasteurella, Burkholderia species, and Gram-negative organisms not otherwise specified eAll fungal infections were identified as Candida species fNumbers may not sum to group totals or percentages as polymicrobial infections with more than one organism were possible Abbreviations: PJI, prosthetic joint infection. Conclusion Incidence rates of early and delayed PJI were significantly higher than late PJI following primary TKA. Gram-negative organisms were more prevalent in early compared to delayed or late PJI. Empiric Gram-negative antibiotic therapy should be considered with a suspected PJI within 3 months after elective primary TKA. Disclosures Alisa Stephens-Shields, PhD, Gilead Sciences: Advisor/Consultant Charles Nelson, MD, Stryker: Advisor/Consultant|Zimmer-Biomet: Advisor/Consultant|Zimmer-Biomet: Grant/Research Support

Bacterial Diversity and Occurrences in Cassava Effluent-Contaminated Soil Collected From Ozubulu, Anambra State, Nigeria

Environmental degradation due to indiscriminate disposal of refuse has a tremendous effect on microbial activities in the soil. Most soil in Nigeria has been subjected to different kinds of pollutants resulting from anthropogenic activities which have become a major threatening factor to the quality of soil. This study was undertaken to evaluate bacterial diversity and occurrences in cassava effluent contaminated soil from Ozubulu, Anambra State. A total of 30 composite soil samples were aseptically collected from cassava effluent disposal site using a sterile soil auger. The predominant bacterial isolates that aided nutrients cycling were appropriately characterized, and their diversities in both impacted and non-impacted soil samples were enumerated. Furthermore, the bacterial isolates were characterized based on morphology, microscopy, and biochemical characteristics. There was a significant reduction in the occurrences of the bacterial isolates in the impacted soil, and Gram negative rods such as Pseudomonas, Klebsiella and Micrococcus (Gram positive) species were the bacterial isolates. The study has revealed that cassava effluent affects microbial distribution in the soil. Keywords: Bacterial, Diversity, Occurrences, Cassava, Effluent-Contaminated and Soil

Anitmicrobial Susceptibility to Microoranisms in Hematological Malignancies; A Need to Review Institutional Protocols

Abstract Introduction Febrile neutropenia is a medical emergency in patients with hematological malignancies. The severity of neutropenia and the duration of infection have an important implication on primary treatment outcome. Previously assessed institutional review revealed gram negative bacteria to be the most common microorganisms, and leading cause of febrile neutropenia. However, the predominance of gram positive bacteria had also increased in later past years [1]. In high risk patients, infections caused by multidrug resistant bacteria worsen treatment complications and thus at times empirical use of antibiotics like colomycin is required; otherwise the prognosis may be jeopardized [2]. Regular surveillance of local flora and susceptibility pattern of antimicrobial is must to elude the antimicrobial resistance. Objective The study was conducted to evaluate the prevalence of microorganisms and to observe the sensitivity pattern of antimicrobials as an institutional protocol to establish antimicrobial policies. Material and methods A cross sectional study was conducted at National Institute of blood diseases and bone marrow transplantation, PECHS campus from August 2021 - January 2022. Ethical approval was taken from research committee prior to the study and informed consent was taken from the patients. Febrile neutropenia was defined as a single reading of oral temperature of ≥38 °C on two or more occasions in 12 h in the presence of absolute neutrophil count of less than 1000cells/mm. Blood cultures were performed using the BACTEC blood culture system. Organisms were identified according to routine bacteriological procedures and disc diffusion method was used for interpreting antibiotic susceptibility. Data was analyzed by SPSS version 23.0. Frequencies and percentages were calculated for categorical variable and mean (standard deviation) was computed for quantitative variables. Association between categorical variables was observed using the chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test. P value of &amp;lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results A total of 310 cultures taken from blood (37.4%), peripheral line (4.2%), hickman line (8.1%), red line (2.6%), pus (7.1%), sputum (9.7%) and urine (31%) samples were observed. Out of total 213 (69%) were found to be gram negative and 97 (31%) were gram positive. Gram negative were mostly reported in blood cultures 61 (20%) while gram positive was found in urine cultures 80 (26%). E.coli (40.8%) was the most prevalent among the gram negative microorganisms followed Klebsiella pneumonae (16.9%), Pseudomonas species (11.7%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (11.3%), Burkholderia cepacia (7%), Enterobacter species (3.3%), Moraxella species (3.3%), Proteus mirabilis (2.8%), Salmonella typhi (1.4%), Acinetobacter species (0.9%) and Citrobacter species (0.5%). In gram negative organisms, Acinetobacter species, Burkholderia cepacia, Citrobacter species and Moraxella species were identified substantially which were not previously prevalent. In gram positive microorganisms Staphylococcus epidermidis (55.3%) was more prevalent, followed by Enterococcus species (19%), Micrococcus species (16%), Streptococcus species (6%), Staphylococcus aureus (3.7%), from which Micrococcus species was reported for first time. Sensitivity of meropenem, amikacin and colistin was higher in gram negative while the sensitivity of fosfomycin, and linezolid was found in gram positive isolates The association of sensitivity and resistance with gram negative and positive isolates was found statistically significant with amikacin, vancomycin, fosfomycin and ciprofloxacin (p=&amp;lt;0.05). Conclusion Gram negative isolates were found prevalent in our study. The sensitivity of meropenem, amikacin and colistin was high than other regimens in gram negative while the sensitivity of fosfomycin, and linezolid was found in gram positive isolates. Few emerging isolates were observed in the study as well. The regular review of microbial pattern and susceptibility evaluation is imminent for prevention of microbial resistance and assessment of institutional practices.

Effects of Effective-Microorganism (EM) Treated Fish Pond Effluent on Soil Microbial Activities

An experiment was conducted at the Department of Crop/Soil Science, Rivers State University to evaluate effects of Effective Microorganism (EM) treated fish pond effluent on soil microbial activities. The study had two levels of fish pond effluent (Diluted and undiluted) and three levels of treated effluent (0EMAS, EMAS, EMAS+EM5) laid out in a completely randomized design with three replications. Microbial count and Carbon-dioxide evolution were evaluated. Total Carbon-dioxide evolved after 15 weeks was highest in soils treated with EMAS+EM5-N and was least in EMAS+EM5-D. The identified fungal isolates were Aspergillus and Mucor species, and the identified bacteria were Bacillus and Micrococcus species but bacteria were more predominant than fungi and recorded highest in soils treated with EMAS+EM5-N. Also Effective Microorganism (EM) increased the biodiversity of microorganism. Data were subjected to analysis of variance.

Skin microbiome profile in people living with HIV/AIDS in Cameroon.

The presence of pathogens and the state of diseases, particularly skin diseases, may alter the composition of human skin microbiome. HIV infection has been reported to impair gut microbiome that leads to severe consequences. However, with cutaneous manifestations, that can be life-threatening, due to the opportunistic pathogens, little is known whether HIV infection might influence the skin microbiome and affect the skin homeostasis. This study catalogued the profile of skin microbiome of healthy Cameroonians, at three different skin sites, and compared them to the HIV-infected individuals. Taking advantage on the use of molecular assay coupled with next-generation sequencing, this study revealed that alpha-diversity of the skin microbiome was higher and beta-diversity was altered significantly in the HIV-infected Cameroonians than in the healthy ones. The relative abundance of skin microbes such as Micrococcus and Kocuria species was higher and Cutibacterium species was significantly lower in HIV-infected people, indicating an early change in the human skin microbiome in response to the HIV infection. This phenotypical shift was not related to the number of CD4 T cell count thus the cause remains to be identified. Overall, these data may offer an important lead on the role of skin microbiome in the determination of cutaneous disease state and the discovery of safe pharmacological preparations to treat microbial-related skin disorders.

Identification and Screening of Biosurfactant Producing Bacteria from Mechanic Workshops Soil in Gusau Metropolis, Nigeria

Biosurfactants are molecules that reduce interfacial tension. Their chemical composition can vary widely, but they have in common their amphiphilic or amphipatic nature and can thus be soluble in aqueous as well as in organic solvents. The study was carried out to identify and screen biosurfactant producing bacteria from mechanic workshops in Gusau metropolis. Eight (8) soil samples were collected at the depth of 0-7 and 8-15cm from selected mechanic workshops located at Gada Biyu, Taqama bye-pass, Birnin Ruwa and non-oil contaminated soil as control for analysis. The physicochemical parameters were analysed using standard procedures (blood heamolysis, drop collapse, oil displacement and emulsification index) methods were used to screen biosurfactant production by the isolates. Mineral salt medium supplemented with 1% Actual gasoline oil (AGO) as sole sources of carbon was used to isolate hydrocarbon degrading bacteria, while heterotrophic bacteria were isolated using nutrient Agar. The soil samples from the study area were characterised with smooth, grey to dark brown soil with an unpleasant smell as well as as well as high temperature and pH. The three mechanic workshops used for this study, shows relatively higher counts for Hydrocarbon Degrading Bacteria while higher heterotrophic bacterial count was obtained from the control site though there was no significant difference between individual mechanic workshop (p&gt;0.05). The isolates are potential biosurfactant producers based on their performance especially blood haemolysis and emulsification index. The isolates identified belonged to the species of Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter, Micrococcus and Serratia.

Response of Bacillus subtilis to Salt and Acid Stresses and the Optimal Effect on Fermentation of Locust Bean (Parkia biglobosa) Seeds into Iru (A Soup Condiment)

This study aimed at evaluating the performance of Bacillus subtilis stressed in varying single-factor salt and acid concentrations as pre-treatments in the fermentation of African locust bean seeds (Parkia biglobosa) into iru, a commonly consumed soup condiment. Microorganisms were isolated from commercial iru and the result showed that there was a predominant bacteria growth, with a mild mold growth. The bacteria isolated were species of Bacillus, Micrococcus and Pseudomonas. Biochemical tests were carried out on the Bacilus species; and Bacillus subtilis was isolated and identified. The isolated B. subtilis was cultured under different acid (pH 3.5, 4.5 and 5.5) and salt (1%, 2.5% and 5% NaCl) concentrations. Notable growths were seen at all salt concentrations but no growth was observed at very high acid concentrations (pH 3.5 and 4.5). Isolates from varying cultural conditions were used as single starters to ferment the locust bean seeds into iru (at 37 oC for 72 h), with subsequent evaluation of their performance in the fermentation process and final product. The results revealed that stressing the organism as a pretreatment step had a positive significant effect on the nutritional, antinutritional, physicochemical, and sensory properties of the fermented iru. This study therefore concludes that the introduction of appropriate starter culture such as B. subtilis with appropriate modifications could contribute to improved preservation, quality and safety of traditionally fermented foods. The overall acceptability of the samples fermented with the stressed B. subtilis compared favourably with the control samples.

The Effectiveness of Ultraviolet Smart D60 in Reducing Contamination of Flexible Fiberoptic Laryngoscopes.

To compare the effectiveness of disinfection protocols utilizing a ultraviolet (UV) Smart D60 light system with Impelux™ technology with a standard Cidex ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA) disinfection protocol for cleaning flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopes (FFLs). Two hundred FFLs were tested for bacterial contamination after routine use, and another 200 FFLs were tested after disinfection with one of four methods: enzymatic detergent plus Cidex OPA (standard), enzymatic detergent plus UV Smart D60, microfiber cloth plus UV Smart D60, and nonsterile wipe plus UV Smart D60. Pre- and post-disinfection microbial burden levels and positive culture rates were compared using Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA and Fisher's two-sided exact, respectively. After routine use, approximately 56% (112/200) of FFLs were contaminated, with an average contamination level of 9,973.7 ± 70,136.3 CFU/mL. The standard reprocessing method showed no positive cultures. The enzymatic plus UV, microfiber plus UV, and nonsterile wipe plus UV methods yielded contamination rates of 4% (2/50), 6% (3/50), and 12% (6/50), respectively, with no significant differences among the treatment groups (p > 0.05). The pre-disinfection microbial burden levels decreased significantly after each disinfection technique (p < 0.001). The average microbial burden recovered after enzymatic plus UV, microfiber plus UV, and nonsterile wipe plus UV were 0.40 CFU/mL ± 2, 0.60 CFU/mL ± 2.4, and 12.2 CFU/mL ± 69.5, respectively, with no significant difference among the treatment groups (p > 0.05). Micrococcus species (53.8%) were most frequently isolated, and no high-concern organisms were recovered. Disinfection protocols utilizing UV Smart D60 were as effective as the standard chemical disinfection protocol using Cidex OPA. N/A Laryngoscope, 2023.